Chapter 1: The first encounter
Notes:
This is the first story I have ever written, the story takes many inspirations from Dark Souls and DxD. The story will be set at one year before the main story of DxD begin, so that I can give characters with little time screen some characters and personalities, and build up some power for the main characters like Rias, Sona and their peerages. I am tired of reading stories where the MC just carries everything. Of course the MC of ours will not be weak, he will have some space to shine, but others will help as well instead of just stand and watch. So I hope you like it. Goodbye for now
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
??? POV
I just came back from another failed attempt, my peerage was right behind me, we are all covered in sweat, dirt, and those stinky bombs that those strays used to throw at us to distract us in order to escape, which they successfully did. I was frustrated sitting on my chair behind the table, my peerage was on the sofa, painting tiredly. My Queen - Akeno went to stand behind me
Me: I can't believe how fast they blend into the crowd
Akeno: Indeed, we have been dealing with them for weeks now, this group of strays are adapting to the environment here. They quickly scattered the moment we came. Even Sona is having a tough time with them even though she has more people than us.
Then Kiba - my knight speak as well.
Kiba: I think they are recruiting more devils in this gang of theirs, no matter how many of them we kill, their number remained the same the next time we faced them.
My rook - Koneko went to me and ask
Koneko: Chocolate?
I lightly smiled at her request, then took a bar of chocolate out of the drawer at my table
Me: Here you go.
She took the chocolate bar, smiled cutely at me then went back to her seat, and started eating chocolate.
Me: Well, it has been a long day, you are all dismissed, go home and rest, we'll get them next time.
Kiba and Koneko both stand up and lightly bow to me
Kiba/Koneko: Goodnight President.
Me: Goodnight you two, rest well.
They both head out of the clubhouse. Then Akeno spoke to me.
Akeno: Ara ara~Look at you,President~All sweaty and dirty, I want to borrow your shower here, care to join me~?
Me: *shrugged* Sure.
Me and Akeno both went to shower, and to be honest, it is nice to have someone to take a shower with. We have been taking a shower together for a long time and I love it when she wash my hair and scrub my back. I did the same to her and now I am hugging her from behind in the bathtub.
Akeno: Have you got any measure against those strays? It was fun at first but now it is getting more frustrating by the day.
Me: The only way I can think of is to lure them all to an open place with few places to hide, then deal with them all at once, they are not too strong but they are annoying and fast.
Akeno: Why don't we track down their headquarters?
Me: Sona has been doing that but failed miserably, they changed their headquarters constantly, they didn't even leave any trace behind.
Akeno: So where do you think we should ambush them ?
Me: I'm thinking about the park, there aren't many places to hide there, also there aren't many people at night. All we need now is something to lure them out. Something that they all want. They have been stealing and killing people in my territory for weeks now which is unacceptable.
Akeno: What bait do you think we could use ?
Me: I'm still thinking about it, there are a few options: a mimic chest, a high value relic,.....
Akeno: Let's use mimic chest, it's hard to resist, cruel and it can fight on its own before we come. I'll put a magical alarm on the mimic chest so it will tell us when they come. But can it really lure them all out ?
Me: Not to worry, I will enhance the chest lock so that it would take all of their effort to open it. Well, that's the plan, I'll call my brother to borrow the mimic chest.
We finish the shower, we head out and look at the clock
Me: Would you look at the time, it's so late now, you have no choice but to sleep here now, Akeno~
Akeno: If you want to sleep with me that badly, all you need is ask~
Me: It's not my fault that you are a perfect hugging pillow. Now get yourself in bed.
Akeno: As you wish~
Akeno and I headed to my bedroom, we both take off our clothes and head to bed, we hugged each other tightly, our chest touches which make it more comfortable.
Me: Goodnight Akeno~
Akeno: Sweet dream, President
Me: Who??
Akeno giggle.
Akeno: My apologies, sweet dream, Rias~
Stray POV
One of my boys came home with new info for our next mission.
Me: Did you find anything, Ashur ?
Ashur: Yes ,boss, a wealthy family that is in the suburb of this town, the security system is not that hard to go through. The family only consists of 4 people with 3 women, which is not good at defending themselves. Their house is also located in an isolated area so it is perfect for us.
Me: Good job, boys, we'll be heading out tonight, We are in for a big treat this time. Show me the way Ashur.
Ashur: At once, boss.
After the boys all went out to prepare for the heist, I sit back, take out a heart-shaped locket from my pocket, inside is the image of me and my beloved Yoshiko, my love, my life, my everything, you help me back on my feet, gave me a home, a place to belong to, I love you so much, so much I can never forget the day he took you away, that BASTARD PHENEX. I promise you Yoshiko, I'll get you out of there, at any cost, if I have to take this whole town to get you out, I'll do it, I'll do anything, so you could come back to me again, I don't need those money, jewels, golds, all I need is you, I'll make enough money to take you out, I promise.
Flashback
Yoshiko: Mauk, I love you, always.......
End of Flashback
I can feel my tears running down my cheeks, my nose is getting runnier, my hand squeeze the locket tightly in my hand, my legs tremble, I miss her, I love her, I want her back, PLEASE, I WANT HER BACK. I was screaming in my head until a voice take me back to reality.
Ashur: Boss, you okay ?
I snapped awake, quickly put the locket in my pocket again.
Mauk: Ye....Yes.....I am, are you guys prepared ?
Ashur: Yes, everyone is ready, awaiting your order
Mauk: Excellent, we're heading out now.
3rd POV
The stray group are heading out of the town on their devil wings while being invisible, they are soaring through the night sky, heading to the mansion standing alone in a vast grass feel,
We separated our group of 40 into 4 squads of 10 and attacked all the floors at once. The defense system of the house quickly collapsed, the security guards no matter how well trained were no match for devils, they quickly got slaughtered, their limbs and blood scattered everywhere. When we're done with the guards, we look for the treasure map, flip the mansion upside down, and get everything valuable to sell on the black market. We search all the stories of the mansion, but no trace of the map. Finally, we found out that the family was hiding in a bunker in the basement. We all attacked the bunker at the same time, penetrating through the bunker in 5 minutes. We got in and saw the family with 1 man and 3 women trembling in the back of the bunker. I ordered the boys to capture the women as hostages, I then walked over to the man and looked down at him.
Mauk: Listen here, we know you have the treasure map that you got from your father that led to a giant fortune, give me the map or else........*snap*
The boys take out there knife and put it near the women's necks
Man: Please, spare my family, take anything you want, just don't kill them.
Mauk: Oh we won't, only if you gave us the map.
The man think for a moment before replied.
Man: Okay, okay, I'll give it to you, but please let my wife and daughters go.
He shakly take out an old scroll from his jacket and give it to me. According to the map, the treasure is buried in a chamber 200m under a certain tree in the central park of the town, Kuoh.
I order the boys to let the family go, which they did, his wife and daughters run to him and check on him
Flasback
Yoshiko: Stay still, Mauk, you'll be okay
Mauk: Ahhhh.....don't be so hard on me like that.
Yoshiko: Then stop moving, it's almost done
Mauk: AHHH!
Yoshiko: Done and done *kiss*
Mauk: Thank you honey.
.
..
....
End of Flashback
Ashur: Boss? Boss? You okay there?
Mauk: Huh?? What is it??
Ashur: Let's head back, we have we are here for, everyone is waiting for you.
Mauk: Right
I look at the family once more and threaten
Mauk: You know the consequences of letting this information out, RIGHT ?
Man: *Hugs his family* Ye....Yes......Not a single soul will know about this.
I turned my back to them and walked away, but I stopped at the bunker's door
Mauk: Treat them well, your family, you are luckier than you think.
I then walk out of the bunker and join my boys to go home.
Boy1: What are you going to do with this much money Boss ?
Mauk: There's something I want to buy, and it needs a lot of money.
Boy1: Don't worry, Boss, we're with you, no matter how hard it is, we'll push through together, as a family.
Boy2: Yeahh, you gave us shelter, food, protect us from those that want to harm us, you teach us how to make a living, how to survive, you are our hero Boss, we'll follow you everywhere big bro. *Raised his arm for a fist bump*
Mauk: *Smile* Thank you boys, for always remain by my side *Fist bump*
Rias POV
I arrived at the mansion, and the scene before me make feel disgusting, blood, limbs everywhere, everything was destroyed, valuable stuffs are taken away. I cannot let them keep on terrorizing the people of my town like this. But, everything is going as planned. I take out a black cube-shaped box from my magical pocket, press the button on the box, everything, the mansion, the guards, the family, everything was absorbed back into the box.
Amazing, mother's box of plays never ceases to amaze me eveytime I use it.
By this time I think Akeno and others are done placing the mimic chests.
Akeno POV
We are carefully placing the sleeping mimic chests with signal sending spell in a large chamber that Koneko with her Rook strength made, Kiba is using his speed to carve symbols to make this place suitable for a secret treasure chamber. Aren't these mimics cute when sleeping like that, however, they are not so cute when they are in their predator mode.
Akeno: And......done. now let me place a disguise spell, a teleport resist spell, and some booby traps for our visitors.
I then summon my familliar, an small green Oni
Akeno: This place needs some traps for future visitors, can you help me sweetie~? *The oni nods in agreement* Good boy, make mommy Akeno proud ok ?
The oni jump out of my hand and start his work, he is so cute when he is working hard like that.
Akeno: Now that everything is done, let's head back home and wait for the fish to take the bait.
Kiba/Koneko: Yes!
And we teleport out of the chamber before the teleport resist spell is activated.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the mimics sleeping soundly in the treasure chamber)
3rd P OV
Mauk and his boys arrived at the park at night, no one is around, a perfect time for some treasure hunting.
They went to the spot as written on the map, they left a few boys out to do scouting duty, before starting to dig deep down below until we saw a big double door with weird symbols on it, this must be the treasure chamber. It is a long hall with 5 meters tall pillars, lit by dim light of torches, the floor is paved with smooth stones. They started to head in before someone in the group stepped on something, the door behind them was closed, any attempt to escape failed miserably when they tried explosion magic on the door only for it to bounce back at them.
They eventually gave up and started to walk deeper into the chamber, to face booby traps set up by the Oni, poisonous arrows to rocks fell from the ceiling, from spiky holes to swinging giant axes........ On their journey, some of them couldn't make it, they had to leave their dream to those remained. Mauk was doing his best to lead the group but when they reached the end of the hall, to the treasure room, there is only 20 people left.
But to their surprise, in front of the room is a person, about 1.9 meter tall, an armor consists of a dark blue or black metal, adorned with intricate engravings and details. The armor is bulky and sturdy, conveying a sense of strength and resilience. The hood made of blue fabric with golden details covers their face, make them more myterious. A thing that Mauk realised is that the knight is not carrying any weapons and one of their arms seems to be broken.
(A/N: no sword)
Mauk: This must be the guardian of the treasure, I must get pass them to reach it
Mauk get in his battle stance with his boys 22 vs 1
Notes:
A/N: Greetings, author here, these are some convention we are going to use in the story
Character's thought or flashback will be in Italy
I will put the character's gestures or small actions in their line so that the conversation won't be minced too much, It will look like *action*
Well, That's all for now. Please, once again, let me know if there's anything I can improve in my story.
Chapter 2: The introduction
Summary:
Who is the mysterious knight?
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Mauk POV
This is not a battle, this is a one-sided beat down, I ordered the boys to attack the knight all at once, only for them to be knocked out by the knight, one by one, the way he swiftly dodged every punch, every slash, every magic spell, it looks way too easy, it looks like he isn't giving his all in this fight, not to mention he has a broken arm that has been hanging around while destroying my doys with only fists. I could hear it panting heavily throughout the fight but that monster showed no trace of tiredness. I joined the boys in the fight, swinging my sword furiously at the knight only for it to dodge all of the slash and gave me a punch on my left eye, and a kick on the torso, sent me back to the wall, it was so strong, too strong for even devils like us
While my troops were beaten by that knight, a flash of thought ran through my mind, that we are going to be killed by that knight, I cannot let that happen, I haven't been able to save her, I can't fall here, I must do something.
Then I saw it, an opening, a moment of distraction when the boys launched another attack at the monster, I aimed at the treasure room and ran, at my full speed, leaving my troops behind, I am sorry boys, please forgive me, I cannot let this chance pass, I must buy her freedom from that bastard Phenex, I must set her free, I need these treasures.
I quickly closed the door behind me, locked it tight, the sound suddenly stopped, it is either the knight has completely done beating up my troops, or the sound is blocked by the door, I head inside and see....
So many of them, 6 of them to be exact, they are all big and heavy, I used an inspecting spell to look inside the one of the chests to see....Gold, diamonds, jewels, pearls, everything, a fortune, a giant fortune with just one of the chest, and there is 6 of them here for me, this should be enough, enough to buy her freedom, I can finally bring her back to me, if we are lucky, we might have some treasure to spare to start a new life, a peaceful life, I can finally leave this behind, Yoshiko, I'm coming.
3rd POV
Mauk proceeds to open the chest only to realise he doesn't have the key, he looks around the room for the key, but he finds none, so he started using lock picking spell, but it's very hard, after about half an hour, the first chest is finally unlocked, he slowly open the chest, and what welcome him isn't treasure but 2 sets of razor sharp teeth, 2 long slender arms launched out of the chest to catch him. If it's not for his high reaction, he would have been eaten by the chest.
The horror continues when the chest slowly rise up for him to see a pale slender torso and legs under the chest. A long horrifying tongue sticks out of the chest.
This scared him shitless, his face turned pale due to pure horror and the hope in his eyes vanished completely, inside, this monster is trying to kill him, outside the knight is still waiting for him to come out.
But the despair didn't stop there, the monster before him let out a loud screech, Mauk almost got deaf due to this. Other chests all stand up and turn themselves in to the same abominatons. 6 walking terrors walk to him hungrily, he couldn't do anything, his body was paralyzed due to terror. One of those monsters kicked him in the stomach, he coughed out lots of blood but he still couldn't do anything. Even though they have a slender body but their strength is on another level, it ripped one of his arms off with ease and threw it in its mouth.
While he was being played by one of the monsters, the others proceeded to open the locked door of the treasure room, only to face the knight that is sitting on the floor, the knight looked at the mimics to see their hunger, and Mauk with his hopeless eyes. The knight slowly stand up, take up the sword that Mauk dropped when he was defeated by it. The next moment, the knight launched itself at the mimics.
Rias POV
We have received the signal from the mimics that they have waken up, meaning the strays are fighting them. So we quickly head to the park to capture this group of strays. On our way to the pit that they digged, we ran into some of their devils that are scouting the outside, we quickly take them out, but unfortunately, we got hit by some of their stinky bombs before heading into the pit.
When we are down there, we see something that we have never seen before, the corpses of 6 mimics lying on the ground, the horrified face of the stray group leader, Mauk, and the one who caused it all, a knight in bloody silver armor with dark blue fabric, tattered, shredded, everything about this armor scream war, pain, suffering, I am even more impressed by the fact that the knight killed those mimics with a broken arm, not only that, they don't radiate any demonic or holy energy, so this one must be human. How did the knight get in here? We made sure that no one could be here besides the strays.
Mauk: Please, help me, this monster.......*gesture to the knight*
The knight turned his head a little to the side, I can hear them panting heavily, it must have been a fierce fight.
Knight: There's....more....
The knight speaks in a shaky, tired voice before turning to us holding up their sword, pointing it at us
(A/N: no knife though cause one of his arm is broken)
Me: Wait, we mean no.........
Before I could say anything, the knight launched at us, they aimed at me but Kiba blocked the attack for me. The knight jump back.
Kiba: You okay, President ?
Me: I'm good, thank you Kiba, but don't attack the knight, we can talk this through.
Kiba/Koneko/Akeno: Roger.
Knight: Same smell....allies?.....don't know...exhausted....enemy?....strong......crowded...safe.......priority.
I got in front of my peerage, trying to reach the knight.
Me: Please, we just want to talk to you , can you tell......
Before I could finish my sentence, the knight ran past us and quickly got out of the pit.
Me: After him, can't let him harm the townpeople
Peerage: Right!
And so we headed out to go after the knight, leaving our familiars behind with the mission of capturing the strays, he's running so fast even if we are flying, it's hard to keep track of him, he quickly jumps from roof to roof, he's even faster than Kiba in term of speed. Just who are you mysterious knight ?
After about half an hour of chasing, he is slowing down, finally, after killing 6 mimics, running in high speed constantly for half an hour, while having a broken arm, and the knight was very tired to begin with due to his heavy pantings that we heard, this person has insane stamina for a human, very interesting.
After another 15 minutes, we have had the knight surrounded, he is panting heavily, his unbroken arm is shaking, still holding a sword.
Knight: What... *pant* do *pant* you *pant* want *pant* from me ?
Me: We just want to talk, please, for once, listen to what we have to say
Knight: Why should I *pant* believe you ? *pant* You have the *pant* smell as them *pant*.
I smell my body again to notice that I have the smell of both the strays and the mimics on my body, so I reassure the knight.
Me: We actually mean no harm, about the smell, those of the men you fought was because they are a group of stray devils we were hunting, and the mimic smell was because I borrowed some mimics from my brother to capture the stray, that's all.
As I finished my sentence, the knight collapsed on the ground, unconsious.
Kiba: What should we do to him now ?
Me: Let's take him back to the clubhouse, he desperately needs some treatment.
Koneko: I'll carry him
Akeno: I'll prepare the teleportation spell.
Kiba: I'll go erase memories of those that saw this.
Me: Thank you everybody.
We brought him back to our clubhouse via teleportation after erasing people's memories. Koneko settled him in an empty room of ours
Me: You two can go home now, Kiba, Koneko, Akeno and I will take it from here.
Kiba/Koneko: Roger that.
Me: Now to the healing session, Akeno, bring me the healing potions
Akeno: On it
Akeno went to the storage to get some potion, in the meantime, I check on the knight, I slowly took off the hood that is covering his face and I see...
Dammit he's hot..........wait, what am I thinking, focus, Rias, focus.....maybe, just a bit closer, just to check on him....check.......check......check.....
Akeno: And...they kissed
Me: Ahhhhhhhh.........AKENO!!
Akeno: Did I ruin your romantic moment with the man you've just met tonight, hmmmm~?
Me: It's not like that!!!!!
Akeno: But I must admit, he is very handsome, very strong with a well-toned body and considering what he could do even when he utterly exhausted, I can only imaging......fufufu~
I can feel my face heat up hearing Akeno say those things
Me: Can you stop, I am focusing here.
Akeno: Focusing on staring at your love interest, yess??
Me: No......not like that..........
Akeno: I've had enough of my daily teasing dose today, let's get back to the healing matter, shall we? Let us heal your boyfriend~
Me: AKENO!!!!
We took the potions Akeno brought back and pour them into his mouth. After awhile, his arm is healed, all he need now is a good rest.
Me: You can go home and rest now, Akeno, you've had a long day.
Akeno: Ohh, so you can spend alone time with him, no?
Me: Akeno!!! I swe.....
Akeno makes a shh gesture and points at the knight. I relunctantly stop talking. Akeno speaks in small volume
Akeno: Sweet dreams you two, don't go over the limit without his consent, okay~?
Me: Hmph......*turn my face away*
Akeno: Anyway, goodnight, Rias.
Me: Goodnight Akeno.
Akeno teleported home. Finally, I can call it a day. We have done a lot today, we dealt with that annoying group of strays, found a Knight candidate, still need his consent though, got rid of the mimics that have been wreaking havoc in my brother's storage. I deserve a good sleep.
With that thought in mind, I went to take a quick shower before when to sleep in the room next the knight's room. Should I tell Sona about the knight, maybe I should, but I'll leave it to tomorrow, I need to sleep now. I took off my clothes and get in bed, the image of the knight keep lingering my mind. Who is he ? How is he like ? Why did he appear in the treasure chamber ?.....And before I know it, I have been asleep.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by sleeping chibi Rias dreaming about the knight)
Knight POV
I slowly open my eyes, it has been so long since the last time I see light, so my eyes haven't adapt to the environment yet. After a few attempts, I could finally open my eyes to see that I was in a room with wooden walls, floor and ceiling. An empty wooden wardrobe and a book shelf are opposite to the bed that I am on. In between the wardrobe and the book shelf is mirror. To my right is 2 windows with black curtains. The smell of the wood became the first smell I have ever smell for thousands of years, I gotta say, it is very refeshing.
Suddenly, my ears twitch at the sound I am hearing, the chirping sound of the bird singing from out of the window, I pop my head out of the window to hear the bird singing, and it was a pleasant experience.
As I was popping my head out of the window, I can feel it, wind blowing gentlely, cooly, carry the smell of the grass, the trees from the woods in front of me, comparing this to where I used to live, where every wind are like a bunch of razor knifes, cutting people into pieces, this place is the definition of comfort. I look up, to see the sky, blue, beautiful sky with, white fluffy cloud, I can't believe I have a chance to see the real sky again, compared to the artificial sky at where I lived, this is...like....beyond beautiful. When the clouds move out of the way, the first sun ray in millenias shines upon me, give me the warmth no blanket could bring. I must enjoy this moment to its fullest.
After that, I examine my body, to see that my broken arm is heal, I assume the group I saw last night healed me, must thank them later if I met them. However, the armor on my body feels very uncomfortable, itchy and heavy. In time of war, I can tolerate that but now, NEVER. So I proceed to take off my armor.....
3rd POV
Rias stirred awake after a good night sleep, she is feeling refreshing and ready for a new day, she sits up, struggles while putting on her bra as usual, she wish Akeno was here to help her. When she is done with the bra, she stands up, heading to the bathroom before she remembered something, she needs to check on the knight first, so she goes to the mirror in her room and connects it to the mirror in his room, and the sight before her has been embedded deep inside her mind. The knight is taking off his armor.
Rias: What happened to him ? How could he stay alive with that much scars on his body ?
Rias place her hand on the mirror, run it along his scars, who could have done this to him, the more she looks at him, more questions come to her mind, she need to speak to him.
She got even closer to the mirror to inspect his scars, suddenly, she felt someone hugged her from behind.
Rias: WHO.....
Akeno: I told you he has a well-toned body, combine with the scars that make him more manly, but these are a little too much, but even so, this is intriguing and terrifying at the same time. Me likey~ *licks her lips*
Rias: Akeno!? Stop scaring me like that, my heart almost jumped out of my chest.
Akeno: My apologies, but may I ask, how long have you been staring at him for ? I promise I won't tell anyone.
Rias: Not your business....Hmph
Akeno: So you did ogle at him ? And you said you hated men ogling at you and here you are, drooling over a naked men. You are so naughty, Rias~.
Rias: I....I.....I....I....
Her face is now as red as a tomato, she then uses hands to cover her face in ambarrassment.
Rias: I have nothing *sniff* nothing to defend myself, am I really that perverted ? I just hope that he doesn't know this or else.....
Akeno: Keep your 'or else' for later, look.
Akeno gestures to the mirror, Rias follows her finger to see that the man is standing there, tilting his head to a side, then he comes closer to the mirror, so close that he is only a few centimeters apart from the girls. He looks straight into Rias eyes before put on a light smile. Akeno and Rias both blush at the scene. He then blows some steam on the mirror and starts writing
Knight: 'Good morning, ladies'
Rias: So he knows, he knows, he knows I was staring at him, I am moving to live in earth's core
Akeno took the chance Rias is distracted by her ambarassment, stand in front of the knight and talk to him via the mirror, she blow at the mirror and write
Akeno: 'Good morning, 🗡️'
Akeno erased and write
Akeno: 'How're you feeling ?'
Knight: '💪'
Akeno look at him and smile
Akeno: '🥞?'
He gave her a thumb up and draw
Knight:'🤤'
Akeno: '👇 stair 30' 👌 ?'
(A/N: I can't find any stair emoji, so 'stair' intead :v )
Knight makes a heart sign to Akeno, for her to blows a kiss at him.
Rias look at her friend in awed.
Rias: You.....How?......
Akeno look at Rias with a smirk.
Akeno: You had your chance with him, Rias, It's my turn now that I've taken quite a liking to him.
Rias: Oh, getting competitive, aren't you? It's on Akeno.
Rias and Akeno press their chest against each other with a menacing aura around them. But Rias realised that the Knight is writting something on the mirror.
Knight: '👕?'
Rias: Oh, don't worry, I'll get you something.
Rias gives him a thumb up and goes to the wardrobe to find something for him to wear, after a few minutes, she finds a T-shirt and a short, and quickly run past Akeno and head to the knight's room. She knocks on the door, he then opens the door and look at her with a smile
Rias: Here you go! Sorry for not preparing any clothes for you. *Twrilling her hair with her finger*
Knight: It's okay, you have done more than enough for a stranger like me, the armor was just kind of uncomfortable, anyway, thank you so much for these clothes.
Rias: You're welcome.
Rias then went back to her room with her face as red as her hair.
Akeno: *Look down at Rias* Did you get any reaction from him ?
Rias: No ? Why are you asking that ?
Akeno smile and point down, Rias follow her finger to see she is still wearing her underwear, she started panting, steam has started to come out of her head.
Rias: No, no, no, this can't be, how will he think of me ? *Panik* He will think of me as an perverted, horrible woman, this is the worst first impression ever .....ahhhhhhh *Sit down while cupping her head*
Akeno: For the first time I see Rias so panic about her image in someone else's eyes like that, She truly likes him. You know, Rias ? *she turns to look at Akeno with teary eyes* maybe he doesn't even know that you are wearing underwear while talking to him.
Rias: Really ? *sniff*
Akeno: Really, didn't you see ? His eyes stick to your face the whole time, he didn't look at your chest, not even once. Same thing for me, he only looks me in the eyes while we're talking. +40 points for the knight for being an upstanding man. Now that everyone is hungry, I'm heading down stair to make breakfast, care to join me?
Rias: Sure *starting to walk out of the room*
Akeno: Rias ?
Rias: Yes ?
Akeno: Clothes!!!
Rias: *panik* Right, sorry.
She put on her clothes and head down stair
( Timeskip : Brought to you be pancakes being stacked on the plate)
The knight heads down stair to smell the fragrant goodness from the kitchen, he heads in and sees 2 ladies making pancakes, they are wearing the same outfit, look like some kind of uniform.
Knight: Are you two fair ladies making breakfast, how can I help you ?
Raven hair girl: There is no need sweetie~, just sit at the table and enjoy the meal, you are our guest after all.
Red hair girl: Sorry for what happened this morning, I didn't mean to stare at you, I am just a bit curious,
I hope you can forgive me.
Knight: You are curious about my scars, no ?*Rias nods* It's ok, I know you are worried but I am used to this scars, they didn't cause me any pain, and about how I get these, I don't want to mention it.
Red hair girl: Then we'll not get deeper into this matter, now it's time for breakfast.
The raven hair girl put a plate with a stack of pancake in front of the knight. His eyes brighten at the sight of the food in front of him.
Raven hair girl: Eat up, I bet you're so hungry by now.
Knight: Yes, thank you so much, miss.....
Raven hair girl: Himejima. We'll do proper introduction after the meal, so Himejima for now.
Knight: Okay, miss Himejima *smile*
The knight put a piece of pancake in his mouth, the flavor exlpoded in his mouth, it's been so long, so long since the last meal he has. He quickly wipes the dish clean.
After the hearty breakfast, the knight is now sitting on a sofa in the living room, the two ladies are sitting opposite to him with a fragrant cup of tea in front of him. The red hair girl speak up.
Red hair girl: Now that we are all full, it's time for our introduction. Me first, my name is Rias Gremory, nice to meet you, sir knight.
Himejima: And I am Akeno Himejima, it's a pleasure sir knight.
Knight: there is no need to call me sir, it's too formal for me *sip the cup of tea* This is so good, miss Himejima, I can't believe boild leaves can be this good.
Akeno: I'll personally teach you how to do it later if you'd like fufufufu~
Knight: Please do.
Akeno: Then it's settle. Beside, next time, call me Akeno, okays ? *Knight nods*
Rias: Well, that aside, we haven't know your name, Knight.
Knight: Ohh, Right, sorry, got distracted by Akeno here *She giggles*.My name is Arto Abyssgard.
Notes:
And our MC has made his appearance, I hope you like this chapter.
Chapter 3: The Bondings
Summary:
Well, Arto has now had his first meet with the devils, now is some time for them to get to know each other, one by one
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Rias: Abyssgard ? I have never heard of that name before, but it sounds very cool, are you from some kind of mysterious clan with an out of this world kind of power? *Sparkling stars in her eyes*
Akeno: *Karate chop on Rias's head* You're watching too much anime, Rias.
Rias: But.....but.......his name sounds very cool, so I thought.......*Got another chop from Akeno*
Akeno: Sorry Abyssgard-kun about her attitude, she usually hides this side of her pretty well. or maybe she wants to be herself while around him I'll re-educate her.
Arto: It's alright, she's quite cute like that *Rias blushes*. Another matter, since I can call you by your first name, you may as well call me by my first name as well, Arto.
Rias: Hey, who is the boss here ? I am your king you know.
Arto: King ?? You're a king, Rias? At this age ? I am impressed, so this town is your kingdom, yeah?
Rias: No, no, you got it wrong, I am just the king of my peerage.....
Arto: Peerage??
Rias: Yeah, are you familliar with chess, Arto?
Arto: Yes, what's of it?
Rias: An army in chess consists of 16 pieces: 1 King, 1 Queen, 2 Bishops, 2 Knight, 2 Rooks and 8 Pawns. We call this a peerage and I am the King, Akeno here is the Queen, there are 2 more of us but they haven't come yet, but the blond boys that blocked your attack for me is my Knight, Kiba, and the small white hair girl that blocked your escape path while we were chasing is my Rook, Koneko.
Arto: Got it, but what does your 'peerage' do I wonder ? Are you guys like a group of heroes that save people from evils, right?
Rias: Nope, we are more like mercenary we do the job if we get paid, but while mercenaries tend to do military mission, our mission vary from, cleaning, cooking, homework helping, to killing, hunting,....
Arto: Sounds like a certain all do shop that I read about once.
Rias: I feel degraded for some reason ?
Arto: So your working diameter is this town, or do you guys work elsewhere too?
Akeno: Not just this town, we work at everywhere our flyers take us, if our clients have a request, we would travel anywhere to complete our mission.
Arto: So your flyers has teleportation mark that you guys can travel to, that's convinience, so how do people pay for the service, do they have to pay with their souls ?
Rias: Nope, the payment will be bargained between us and the client, they can pay with money, antiques, a handshake,or, even their souls if they can afford that,fufufu.
Arto: So if money isn't your priority, what is ?
Akeno: Our priority is for our clients to sign contracts with us, which will increase our power.....wait a minute....
Rias/Akeno: You know ?
Arto: Of course I know you ladies are devils, I just want to know how you work ? You did your best to hide that demonic aura of yours, but they were enormous, so some of them leaked out, but you did your best, really.
Rias: Thank you for the compliment, but how much do you know about us devils ?
Arto: I know that you fought against Fallen Angels and heaven in Faction wall, a lot of devils died in that war, combine with your low birth rate, devils are suffering from population shortage, I know that you guys have a method to turn human into devils but I don't know what is, now that you told me about peerage stuffs, that solve my question, I also know you guys make contracts contract with human but I don't know the purpose, now that my picture of you devils is a bit more bright, I can answer you questions about myself as my end of this conversation.
Akeno: Splendid, now that we have known your name, Arto, may I ask you how old are you ?
Arto: I don't know, how old do I look ?
Rias: You look around our age, 17 years old.......You don't know ?
Arto: Yes, I stop counting my age after a few thousands of years in the void, but since I don't age there, mine should be the same as the time before I fell into the void from my original world.
Rias: How old, Arto ?
Arto: about 3000 years old.
Akeno/Rias: 3000 !?
Rias: You were talking about the void, what is it ?
Arto: It's a blank space between worlds, there is nothing there but darkness.
Akeno: Then how did you fall into the void ?
Arto: It's a long story that I don't want to talk about now.
Akeno: Sorry, my bad.
Rias: How long have you been in this world ?
Arto: From yesterday when I was teleported inside that treasure chamber of your. Almost forgot, sorry for killing those mimics of yours, you said you were using them to catch stray devils, I'll do something to make up for you about that.
Rias: There's no need, my brother told me to get rid of them cause they were wreaking havoc in my brother's storage, and since they might hurt others if put elsewhere, he can't move them away from his storage, he can't kill them either, they are holding a lot of valuable stuffs in their mouth, he's afraid that he might destroy them while killing the mimics, so he jump at my request to borrow them. He told me to destroy them if possible but keep the relics safe. And last night, you killed them swiftly without destroying my brother's relics. So I must thank you for that, you did us a great favor.
Arto: You're welcome I guess.....
Then the door opens, for 2 people to come in, one slim boy with blond hair and gray eyes, the other one is a short girl with white short hair, a cat hair pin and yellow eyes, they are both wearing uniforms like Rias and Akeno.
Rias: Ahh......here they are, Kiba, Koneko, please come and introduce yourselves to our guests here.
Kiba: Hi, my name is Kiba Yuuto, nice to meet you.
Koneko: Koneko Toujou, good morning.
Arto: Arto Abyssgard, it's my pleasure.
Akeno: Now that everyone is here, we can start our main event.
Arto: What is it ?
Rias: We have an offer for you Arto: Will you join my peerage Arto ? As my Knight. Everyone, do you want Arto to join our peerage ? If you do, raise your hand *Raise her hand*
Akeno: *Raise her hand* Of course, I want you to join, you are an interesting individual and I want to know more about you~
Kiba: *Raise his hand* I'll always welcome a new member, especially a fellow Knight, I'll have someone to spar with and more importantly, I won't be the only male of the peerage anymore.
Koneko: *Raise her hand* Well, everyone agrees, so I have no reason to refuse. Besides, you don't look like a pervert.
Rias: Now that everyone has made their decision, it's your turn to decide, Akeno ?
Akeno: Yes, President.
Akeno takes out a stack of paper, and puts it on the table, at the same time, Rias takes out a crystal red Knight piece and puts it on the table as well.
Rias: *point at the stack of paper* These are the benefits you'll get if you join my peerage, take your time reading them Arto, and we can discuss some terms if you want, we'll wait for your decision.
Arto: This will take some time to read, so you guys should enjoy yourself when I consider my decision.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto reading the stack of paper)
Everyone is doing their own things while Arto is reading the contract. Kiba is doing his homework, Koneko is eating a bar of chocolate, Rias is doing paperwork on her table, Akeno is sitting beside Arto, resting her head on his shoulder to explain the terms to him.
Arto: So I have full access to these training grounds ? How are there so much ?
Akeno: Indeed, Gremory domain is as big as Japan so not only there are many of them, they're also very big.
Arto: Damn, I also have access to half of the grand library's book too ? How much are there ?
Akeno: Millions of books of all subjects: Mathematic, Poetry, Magics, Stories,....... you can even find cook books in here, but more secretive books, you need to wait for that to be accessible.
Arto: Fair enough, wait, monthly wages ? You get paid for being in this peerage ?
Akeno: Yes, besides payments from clients, we do have wages based on your KPI, like number of contracts you signed in a month and number of strays you hunted. About strays, there are bonuses for you, the more dangerous the strays, the more bonuses you'll receive.
Arto: Interesting. And about the insurance ?
Akeno: Don't worry, everything will be covered by Gremory family, they are very rich, those prices are like a grain of sand in the desert. Not only that, when you join this peerage and contribute for some time, you'll be given your very own real estate.
Arto: Really ? The Gremory are pretty generous, aren't they ?
Akeno: Why, yes, this peerage belongs to the heiress of the clan, so of course there are some exclusive rights. Besides, the Gremory is famous for treating their subordinates with care and they have too much to give, so these benefits are quite generous for even devils.
Arto: This is a good deal, I am interested, but this........*Point at the paper*
Akeno: Ohhh, there will be less benefits though.
Arto: But there is one thing I want to keep.
Akeno: Then, you've made your decision ?
Arto: I have. Don't worry, it won't disappoint you.
Akeno: It won't.
Rias: So, What is it, Arto ?
Rias comes and sits at the table opposite to him, Arto slowly reaches out to the Knight piece, takes it and puts it near Rias's side
Arto: I must decline your offer, Rias.
Rias: *sigh* May I ask why ?
Arto: Because I value this life, I had a life before this, and I wasted it, in war, in killing, in pain. If there is something that I learn from that life, I have learned the value of life, of every little happy moment in my life, I must treasure the chance I am given, if I agree to your offer, I will have to throw away a life, a gift that was given to me, I cannot do that. So please, understand it for me. That's why I must decline your offer.......
Rias had a sad face hearing this.
Rias: It's okay, Arto, I get it, life is a meaningful thing to you, I understand your decision.
She proceeds to take the Knight piece back, but suddenly, Arto takes her hand to her surprise
Arto:.....for now.
Rias: For now ? You mean.....*her face brightens*
Arto: Yes, I might be a part of your peerage in the future, but I want to stay human for now. But I want you to promise me something
Arto opens Rias's hand reveals the Knight piece.
Arto: Promise me that when I am on the verge of death, use this to save me, okay ? I love this life, and I really don't want to die.
Rias: YES, I promise.
Arto: In the mean time, I will still be your ally, your friend, I will help you with anything that you need, cause you guys give me a warm feeling, it feels like I finally have a family again.
Akeno: *Hug his arm* Awww~, you are so cute, of course we'll be your family. Thank goodness you didn't leave us, it would be so lonely without you.
Rias: Now that everything is settled, time to get to know our new members of the Occult Research Club. I'll go first, Arto really needs some new clothes, he's not going to wear this forever, so we are going shopping now.
Arto: Really ? I mean, okay, but I don't know much about fashion, I most of the time wear my armor, so it'll be up to you to choose.
Rias: It won't be that hard, you are very handsome to begin with, and that perfect body of yours would fit in any clothes. You'll be the hot face of this town in no time with my help. *Puff her chest up proudly*
Arto: Well then, I am all yours. *Rias blushes*
Akeno: Hey, no fair, be mine too, Arto. *Grab his arm*
Rias: Stop it, Akeno, you'll have your chance with him later this day, now we're heading to the mall *Grab his other arm and pull him away from Akeno*
Before heading to the mall, Arto cast a spell on himself to hide his scars to prevent freaking people out.
Akeno: Right, I need some preparation *head inside the clubhouse*
Kiba: It seems things are livelier when Arto is here.
Koneko: The more chaotic you say.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Akeno trying on lipsticks)
3rd POV
Arto and Rias are now at the mall, they are heading up to the clothes store. Everyone is looking at the two while they are talking to each other, too focused to notice that everyone is talking about them, they are whispering among themselves about Arto and Rias.
Random girls: *Whisper* Such a lucky girl, having a handsome boyfriend like that,..... It should have been me, not her.
Random boys: *Whisper* That lucky bastard, having a girlfriend with a huge rack like that.....It should have been me, not him.
Rias: Arto ?
Arto: Yes ?
Rias: I am curious about your name, Abyssgard, I have never heard about them before, can you tell me about your family?
Arto: Sure, but I wouldn't call it family, Abyssgard is not a clan, it's a legion.
Rias: A legion? Ohhh, so that's why it sounds so specific, you guys fight against the abyss, right?
Arto: Yes, for thousands of years, everything ended with a fierce battle, an all-out battle from both sides, The Second Abyssal War, 10 million Abyssgard warriors against billions of Abyssal monsters.
Rias's eyes widen hearing this, they were totally overwhelmed by their numbers, it's like one Abyssgard against 100 Abyssal creatures. I can't imagine how they could have won this battle.
Rias: Wait, Second? There is one before that?
Arto: Yes, the first is war where the Legion was founded, by a group of slaves, work in the mine, they have found a strange metal that could kill the Abyssal creatures when there's no hope left for a win against the Abyssal creatures, then the table have turn when they join the battle with the new waepons, the Abyss was pushed back to where they came from, a deep, dark pit. Then a magical seal was formed, using the souls of those that fell in the battle to cover the pit, until the second war occurred.
Rias: That's an epic story, can you tell me more about it sometimes ? *Puppy eyes*
Arto: *flick her forehead* Until next time. Now that we're at the clothes store.....
Rias smiles brightly at his reply. They head in, get greeted by the employees of the store.
Employee: Welcome to our store, how can I help you, young couple?
Rias blushes hard at this. She waved her hand at the employee.
Rias:No,no, we're not anything yet. I just need to find some new clothes for my friend here *Arto waves his hand*
Employee: You two should be something soon I dare say, now please follow me, we have some new batches that would fit your man perfectly.
The employee leads them inside and loads of options appear before Rias's eye, she starts picking and throws them at Arto for him to try, from summer to winter, from daily activities to formal events.
Arto: How do I look, Rias? *Walk out in a tuxedo*
Rias: *Nose started bleeding* You look wonderful, utterly handsome. *Thumbs up*
Arto: Rias, your nose.....
He gets on one knee before her, uses a tissue to the bleeding. This makes the bleeding worse
Arto: You okay ? Do I need to call....
Rias: There is no need, Arto, I was just....just.....
Employee: ....amazed by your look, young man, *turn to Rias* keep him close young lady, they might try to take your man.
Hearing this, Rias hugs his arm tightly
Employee: That's more like it.
Rias: Now that we're here, I might as well buy something for myself too.
Rias drags Arto by his arm her chest side is pressing against his arm, but this gains no reactions from Arto, Rias becomes even more curious after this. She drags him to somewhere he doesn't expect
??? POV
I have just done playing in the arcade with my friends, now we're walking around the mall, but then my friend told me
Friend 1: Look Issei, is that.....?
I look at where he is pointing to see, that red hair and voluptuous body, that is definitely the one and only, Rias Gremory, one of the two most famous girls in Kuoh Academy, the crush of many men, including me. She's beautiful, smart, elegant, but most importantly, her breasts, her heavenly breasts, they make me want to bury my face inside them. She is the woman I want in my harem.
However, Rias is now walking side by side with a man her age who is carrying a lot of bags with him. She is talking happily to him, not only that, she is wrapping her arm around his, pushing her breasts against his arm. They are going where? Huh!? They are heading to the underwear store, she is going to try some hot lingerie on, I gotta see it, I'm gonna burn that image into my mind
Me: Matsuda, Motohama, follow me
Motohama/Matsuda: Where are you going ?
Me: Heaven.
My friends ran after me to the underwear store.
Motohama: This is indeed Heaven.
Matsuda: But we gotta go stealth mode, so that everyone doesn't notice us.
Me: Don't worry, a few minutes ago, I saw a guy just casually walk in there and no one is minding him, so all we need to do is smile and walk in like all other stores.
We then walk in the store casually, imagining we are drowning in the sight of hotties in underwear before someone gets in our way. That is a big bulky guy, around 40, he wears a security outfit. He speaks to us in a low tone voice.
S.G(Security Guard): Where do you think you're going young men ?
Me: We're heading in............
S.G: *Points behind him with his thumb* There ? This underwear store is for women, that for men is on the next floor, you guys shouldn't be in here.....*looks past them* Good day to you ladies, please come in *look back to them* ....why are you guys like this ? Peeking on women like that, have you no shame ?
Me: Then why did you let that guy come in the store*point at the man that is sitting on a couch in the store*?
S.G: 2 reasons: 1. He has the permission from the girl that comes with him, 2. He is not a pervert like you 3.
Me: How do you even know that he is not a pervert ?
S.G: I've been doing security duty here for years, kid. I know a pervert when I see them, that's why I specially guard this store, to prevent those like you flocking in and cause troubles for the ladies *sigh* kids these day. Now get out of here before I make you.
We reluctantly leave.
Me: That's so unfair, how did that guy get passed but we don't ? I bet he peeks at women too when they are not looking. Moreover, he's looking at Rias Gremory in lingerie *sob* cruel world.
Matsuda: Indeed, I bet he's more perverted than us, he's just better at hiding it.
Motohama: Man that doesn't peek at a woman's body isn't a man, now let's go home, I've just a new interesting DVD, you guys might want to see it.
Me/Matsuda: Hell yeahhh.
3rd POV
Arto is now sitting in the underwear store. He has a neutral look on his face, looking at a changing cabin with all his focus, ignores all the girls that are going around him, trying to talk to him.
Arto: Rias, are you done ?
Rias: No, I am having a problem, Arto, get in here and help me please.
Arto shakes his head, then stands up, makes all other girls step aside, and with that neutral face, he walks to the cabin, quickly gets in, checks the curtain to make sure that the cabin is fully secured. Then he turn to see Rias is struggling.
Rias: Splendid, you're here, can you help me with this.
She turns her back to him, moves her hair to the front, reveals her unclipped bra. Arto sighs and clips it for her.
Arto: Done.
Rias:*Blushing* So, what do you think of it ?
Arto: You look very beautiful, Rias. I cannot describe your beauty by words.
Rias blushes harder hearing this, but she realises something, looking in Arto's eyes, she then asks him.
Rias: Arto, what color is my bra ??
Arto: Uhhhh.....uhhhhh......Ree~~ed?
Rias: *wearing black* that's my hair, Arto. I told you to come in here because I want you to be the only one seeing this, so please look down just this one time and tell me what you think about it ?
Hearing Rias pleading, he reluctantly looks down on her lingerie.
Arto: I don't think my opinion is necessary, you look beautiful in almost everything you wear, Rias. You don't know how many men look at you lustfully when we are going to the mall....
Rias: I know, but I don't care what they think, all I want to know is your opinion, I want to be beautiful in your eyes, that's why I buy these.
Arto: You don't need to go that far, any clothes would look wonderful on you *holds her face in his hand* you are one of the most gorgeous girls I have ever seen, when I was sitting outside, many girls tried to talk to me, but the only one I was waiting for was you. Is it enough for you, my Princess ?
Rias: Yes, that's enough for me, my Knight. Let's head out, it's getting hot in here.
They then headed out of the cabin, she then showed some lingeries to him.
Rias: The first one took too long, so we must speed things up, I am running out of time, I need to hand you to Kiba in 20 minutes, so which do you think would fit me the most ?
Arto: The less revealing ones.
Rias: Ok, thank you so much.
Arto: No problem.
They then head out of the mall with a bunch of bags full of clothes. When they head home, Rias says
Rias: Just in time, Kiba, your turn.
Then she retreated upstairs taking all the clothes they bought, Rias got in Arto's room, put his clothes on the bed, she then saw Arto's armor being hang on the wall, the armor was tattered, the result of fierce battles, maybe even the Abyssal War he was talking about, this armor is a part of him, the mark of his old life. Rias, looks around, makes sure there's no one, she sniffs his armor, takes all of those smell in her nose, fire, blood, sweat, pain, suffer, and most importantly, his scent. She wants to make up to him, reward him with what he deserves, she reminds herself to call people to repair his armor. She then goes to Akeno's room in the clubhouse to check on her, but the door is locked, Rias shrugged her shoulder then go back down stair to see Arto is now standing opposite Kiba in the back of the clubhouse.
Arto: You're saying you want to fight me, Right ?
Kiba: Yes, just a little friendly sparring match. That's the best I can think of to get to know someone.
Arto: Sure, so what are we going to use ?
Kiba: Sword.
He then summons 2 swords and throws one to Arto. Arto put on an interested face, after examining the sword, he said.
Arto: Good quality sword, and you can summon your sword out of thin air, impressive. I was wondering where you hide your weapon when you blocked that attack of mine.
Kiba: It was a close one, I must say, you are the fastest human I've ever seen, say, maybe I can learn something from you through this fight, you said you had 3000 years of fighting with you, so you must be a seasoned warrior, thank you for having me, sensei.
Arto: Well mannered man I see, I also think I could learn from you as well, I hope I can meet your expectation of a seasoned warrior. So, how will we spar, time limit, weapons taking, last man standing or Death battle.
Kiba: I hope you're kidding with the last one, but let's go with 'Last man standing' please.
Arto: Very well, Koneko, will you be our referee.
Koneko: Whatever.
Koneko then walks in between 2 fighters, Arto and Kiba get into their battle stance, when they are ready, she says
Koneko: AND......BEGIN !!!!!!
Kiba launches himself at Arto who is standing still, Kiba slashes many times at his opponent, only for Arto to swiftly dodges all of them.
As this goes on, Kiba get more annoyed by Arto, he speaks to Arto while still trying to land a hit on the Abyssgard.
Kiba: Stop messing around, Arto, don't treat me like a kid, fight me.
Arto: I am not, I'm just learning your fighting style, now.....
Arto raises his sword to block an overhead strike from Kiba, as Kiba is pressing in
Arto:....I have finished learning........
He quickly moves to the side, this makes Kiba lost his momentum and falls to the front, Arto takes his chance and hits Kiba in the back of his head with the sword hilt. Kiba quickly stand up and launches at Arto again, this time, faster.
Rias goes to the back of the clubhouse to watch the fight between Arto and Kiba, she brings with her a bar of chocolate and give it to Koneko, who is watching the match closely.
Rias: Here you go *Gives Koneko the chocolate bar*
Koneko: *Take it* Thank you President.
Rias: They sure are having fun huh ?
Kiba keeps on striking at Arto while the Abyssgard skillfully counter every attack from Rias's Knight, some small cuts has appeared on Kiba's uniform and face, resulted from Arto counter attack, yet he keep on trying.
Rias: Arto is not giving his all, he's giving Kiba many chances to fight back, it's like he is teaching Kiba how to handle a sword.
Koneko: I mean, Kiba did call Arto Sensei, so it's only natural.
Akeno then appears with everyone to watch the fight. She looks sweaty and breathes heavily
Akeno: How's the fight going ? *Look at Arto* He looks so hot while he fight like that~
Rias: Where were you, Akeno ? You were in your room this whole morning, even locked the door, and now you look sweaty and exhausted, what were you doing ?
Akeno: Just some exercises, don't worry, I am perfectly fine.
Kiba is again pushed back, but this time he want to try something else, he speeds up and launches a thrust with his sword at Arto, the thrust was so fast Koneko and Rias could only see a blurry yellow flash soar across the arena. But to everyone's surprise, Arto steps on Kiba sword with his left leg, stop him midway, then focus his center of weight on that leg, he uses his other leg to kick Kiba out, his momentum combine with his opponent's kick make the Knight take more damage, he flies back from Arto, panting out of exhaustion, and pain. As he slowly stands up, his clothes is dirty, his body is bloody, he tried to stand up but fall back on one knee.
Rias then comes close to the arena
Rias: That's enough, Kiba, let's........
Kiba than raises his arm to Rias, gestures her to step back, Rias looks at Kiba to see determination in his eyes, she nods and steps back. after a short while, Kiba was able to stand up again, summon another sword and gets into his battle stance. Arto put on a smile, point his sword at Kiba also.
Arto: That's the spirit !!!! Come fight me like a Knight you are, Kiba
Kiba take a deep breathe, and launches himself at Arto, but this time, he is fighting with his skills alone, no more speed boost, just a normal swordman against another swordman, but this time, because Kiba is slower, his skill is more refined, stable, and more effective, each strike makes Arto happier since his student is learning new things today. The fight go on and on, Kiba keep his stance firm, grip his sword hard, slowly but steadily, they are going back and forth, Kiba is still getting new bruised on his body, but he is now able to counter some of Arto's attacks. Arto keeps encouraging him each time he is pushed back, but his body doesn't allow him to keep going, so Kiba decided to go for one last strike before his body give in to exhaustion. He speeds up one last time, with the help of the new learned knowledge, Kiba launches one hell of a strike, breaks Arto's sword in the process, leaves a small cut on his face before collapsed on the ground.
Rias, Akeno, and Koneko, quick go to Kiba to check on him. They then take him to the clubhouse for treatment. While Kiba is still unconsious, Rias talks to Arto
Rias: You don't need to go that far, Arto.
Arto: I know, but I have to, fighting real battle is the best way to learn, did you see how much he has learned through only one fight ? He fixed his stance, his grip on the sword, his skills has improved a lot compared to the beginning of the fight, when he solely depended on his on his speed to create advantages for him. *Point at the cut on his face* And this is his result, a good 8/10 for the first day. *Rias giggles*
Rias: You're right Arto, maybe I need to change the way we train, can you help me as well ?
Arto: Of course, my Princess *Rias blushes*, I'll come up with a training plan for each of you to improve yourself.
Akeno: Ara ara~, Arto, Rias became your Princess already ? Then what am I to you ? Hmmm~?
Arto: Alright, Akeno, you are also my Princess....
Akeno: *Hug his chest* Awww~, thank you my Prince.
Rias: That's enough Akeno, it's about time we make lunch, I need your help in the kitchen so come on. *Dragging Akeno away from Arto*
Akeno: Wait, I haven't had enough of his warmth yet, Rias, let me go.........
(Timeskip: brought to you by a chibi Rias and Akeno cooking)
Kiba slowly open his eyes to see Arto sitting on the opposite to him, he slowly speak.
Kiba: Did I do well ?
Arto: You did a good job, you have fixed a lot of your problems in a sword fight, which is a good improvement.
Kiba: When did you see those problems?
Arto: From the beginning, when I was standing still, watching you swing that sword, I can see you problems. You have good basic skills in sword fight but you depend too much on your speed, which will break your stance and put you in a disadvantage position. I would recommend you practice the basic more to the point you completely master it, then applying speed to them, getting faster gradually, a bit at a time.
Kiba: I'll keep that in mind. You're a great teacher Arto.
Arto: Am I ? Well, thanks, don't you worry, I'll design training plan for you to be a better swordman.
Kiba: I am looking forward to it
They then do a fist bump, them someone called.
Rias: It's time for lunch you two.
Arto: Coming ! You need help?
Kiba: Nah, I can walk on my own.
Arto: That's my student *goes ahead* be quick, the food is getting cold.
Kiba: Right behind you.
Then they have a warm, hearty lunch
Everyone: Itadakimatsu~
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto swinging his sword with one hand while the other cast a spell)
The next person to spend time with Arto will be Koneko, they are now heading to ice cream shop for some sweet treat in the afternoon after the fight with Kiba in the morning, they'll buy everyone some ice cream because why not. Arto is now holding in his hand list of ice cream that each one in the peerage likes: Rias likes Matcha, Akeno likes Strawberry, Kiba likes Vanilla, Koneko likes chocolate while Arto's is a big question mark.
Koneko: You seriously haven't had an ice cream in your life ?
Arto: Yeah, where I used to live doesn't have enough resources for comfort food like ice cream and candy, it's cold, gruesome, one miss step and you'd die, we have to focus all our resource on food, they might not be delicous, but they keep us alive. Not only that, we were always in cautious mode since we were at war, so no one have time for comfort food.
Koneko: Your family sure have a tough time there huh ?
Arto: Yeah, I would call them my Legion, but in some ways, I can call them my family, even though we are not blood-related, we are comrades, we care for each other on the battlefield, but we were not that close when in time of peace.
Koneko: You guys were not blood-related ?
Arto: Yeah, in a way, Abyssgard is a place for those that were abandoned by their community: criminals, exiles, orphans,......they all come to Abyssgard to find a home, a place to belong, a reason to live, a reason to fight. Abyssgard were originated from a group of slaves, so we have high empathy for those people, we don't judge their origin, no matter who they are: a general, a noble, a commoner, a slave, a wanderer, a thieve, a murderer, a psychopath, we accept them all, there will always be place for you in the Abyssgard. For that reason, we have the most feared army, because we put everyone strong points in use, make the most out of their value: like a thieve is good at stealthy mission, all we need is to improve is his/her fighting ability, leaning toward assasin path, a noble can be the person to call when you need to make money, their knowledge was the reason why Abyssgard was one of the richest group in my world, a general is the person to call when you need tactical thinking, we rarely lose a war because of them, murderers are well, murderer,............. there are so much more to mention.
Koneko: That is an interesting story, indeed, everyone would love to hear this, especially President, she would keep you awake all night to tell her stories.
Arto: Oh, were're here, wow, this is big, they have a store that only sell ice cream ?
Koneko: Yes, now let's head in and figure out which ice cream you like.
They head in the store, and the scent of ice cream flocking Arto's nose, he look around to see tens of flavor, after a while of choosing, tasting, considering, Arto finally chose mint for today. They are cool, sweet, fragrant, and suit his taste perfectly. Arto and Koneko is now heading home with an ice cream bag for everyone. Suddenly, a woman show him a flyer with a white cat on the flyer.
Woman: Have you seen a cat like this? Please tell me.
Arto: Nope, how about you Koneko?
Koneko: Me neither.
Arto: *Take the flyer from the woman's hand* We'll call you if we saw your cat, don't worry
Woman: Thank you so much. *Leaves*
Koneko: You needlessly get us job in a Sunday afternoon, when we should enjoy ourselves and realx.
Arto: You'd think otherwise then you see this *Show her the flyer*
Koneko: 1 million yen for the person who finds the cat !?
Arto: Big money, yes? *Koneko nods* Then let's go home and put these ice cream in the fridge then we'll find this 1 million yen worth cat. So 50/50?
Koneko: 50/50 *make a 'shhh' gesture*
After putting the ice cream in the fridge, they go the address written on on the paper to gather more information about the cat. They then meet the owner of the cat, she lives in a big mansion, as big as a school, no wonder she can just throw 1 million yen at those that find her cat, it's like 1 drop of water in a lake.
Owner: Here are some stuff that belongs to my baby *Show them some clothes, toys, and a sandbox*, I have hired some professionals dogs to find him but to no avail.
Arto: When were this 'baby' of yours last seen?
Owner: About a few days ago, I remember when it was my boy's birthday, I gave him a necklace as a bithday gift but then, the next day, when I came home from work, my baby is missing, I even check the camera but I couldn't find him *Sobs* Please, bring my baby back, I am so desperate right now.
Arto: Don't worry, we'll try our best, right Koneko? *She nods*
Arto and Koneko is now outside of the house, Arto is holding in his hand a string of wool from the wool roll that the cat usually plays with. He smell the wool for indentify the cat's scent.
Koneko: Stop it Arto, not even professional dogs can find him, why would this time be different?
Arto: They are indeed professional dogs, but they are nothing compare to professional magical dog.
Arto then turns himself into a big grey wolf. Koneko's eyes widen seeing this.
(A/N: No sword though)
The wolf then shrinks to the size of a normal dog, then looks at Koneko who is in awed.
Arto: What?
Koneko: How could you turn into a wolf?
Arto: It's the result of my senjutsu training, I can freely change my form into a wolf. It's a fun process, but the sudden rise in the sense of smell could be a problem sometimes.
Koneko: Senjutsu !? Maybe he can help me.......Now, what have you sense? Did you get the smell of the cat?
Arto: Not just that, I sensed something that those other dogs can't, magical traces, it comes from that necklace on the cat's neck. But the traces are everywhere, spread around town, cut into pieces.
Koneko: So the owner accidentally gave the cat a magical necklace?
Arto: Yes, maybe the kidnappers were aiming at the necklace.
Then Arto's ears perks up, Koneko notices it also, they turn their back to the magical trace before it disappear again and again it appears, then disappear.
Koneko: So that's why the cat disappear with out a trace.
Arto: Because no one was in that mansion to kidnap the cat.
Koneko: He got out on his own.
Arto: This explains why the traces are cut into pieces and spread between many places in the town
Koneko: That necklace............
Arto: .........is indeed embeded with a teleportation spell. The cat was untrollably teleported around this town, lucky for us.
Koneko: Now that we know the truth, how do we retrieve the cat, the teleportation of the cat seem chaotic.
They then buy a map of the town, Koneko is holding the map in place while Arto is sensing the cat's trace and mark on the map with his paws. After a few hundred traces are marked on the map. Arto turns back to human, starting to connect the marks, to find a pattern. After half an hour of brainstorming, he finally found it, the pattern. he point at a place on the map
Arto: He'll be here next, then here, here, here,.............there, we need to be here in the next 5 minutes until the cat disappear again, we need to take that necklace off his neck, it seems the spell only starts working when it's wore by someone.
Koneko: Right.
Then they head to the mall, they run at the fountain where that cat will appear but they failed, the cat disappeared before they could catch it, Koneko even jumped at the cat only for it to dissapear, and she is now soaking wet in the fountain.
Koneko: We need to be faster.
Arto: Got it, here, take the map, tell me the direction.
Arto then turned into his wolf form, bigger this time, then turns to Koneko.
Arto: Hop on, we don't have much time.
Koneko hesitants at first but still jumps on Arto's back. They decide to ignore the second destination and head to the third one, the park, Arto runs at top speed while Koneko is holding herself on his back to prevent falling. They saw the cat, but since Arto is in his wolf form, he scares the cat away, the cat starts to run away from him and Koneko, hide in trees in the park, before disappear again.
Arto: Dammit. To the next destination.
Koneko: You sit out this next one, you make him run away with your wolf scent, you just need to take me there, I'll handle the cat, but promise me you won't look while I'm dealing with him, Got it ?
Arto: Sure, Promise *Raises his paw*
Koneko: *Takes his paw and shakes* Keep it, OK?
Next destination: a classroom in Kuoh Academy. Arto is now there, a few minute before the cat appear, he is now standing guard on the first floor while Koneko goes to the second floor to find the cat, it's Sunday today, no one is at school so it's easier to find the cat. Koneko then see the cat appear before her, she takes a deep breath, then...
The cat looks at Koneko, then slowly approaches her, finally jump into her arm. Koneko quickly remove the necklace from the cat's neck, then she turns back normal before heading down stair with the missing cat.
Arto: Yesss, you did it, Koneko *Proceeds to hug her*
Koneko: NO!, You're sweaty, so no huggy.
Arto: *Sad* Okay.....
But then she raises her palm to him, he happily high-fived her then they take the cat back to his owner.
Owner: Oh my god, Thank you so so so so much, MY BABY. Where did you find him ?
She then hugs the cat tightly, the cat look kind of annoyed because of this.
Arto: We found him in a black market, the kidnapper was aiming for his necklace, we rescued him but the necklace was gone.
Owner: It's okay, Oh, right, almost forgot
She then give Arto an envelope.
Owner: Here is the reward.
Arto checks inside and says in a surprise voice
Arto: 2 millions ?
Owner: You 2 deserve as much, those useless bastards I hired prior cost me more than this.
Arto: Thank you so much, ma'am. *Bows*
Arto and Koneko head out of the mansion, Arto gives her 1 million yen.
Arto: Here you go.....
Koneko: You keep it, I am not good with money, whenever I need some, I'll ask you, I usually let President keep my money too.
Arto: Then don't hesitate to ask, okay ?
Koneko: You know it.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Koneko sitting side by side and eating ice cream)
It's now evening, the last one remains is Akeno. After the cat incident with Koneko, Arto has now returned to the clubhouse, even though he is all sweaty now, Akeno still hugs him to greet him home
Akeno: Welcome home, darling~. You should go take a shower now, cause we are having a date tonight~.
Arto: We are ?
Akeno: Of course, how else would I do get to know you beside a date ? Put on a nice outfit, this will be an unforgettable night for us both.
Arto then proceeds to get a shower. When he walk out of the shower wrapping a towel around his waist...
Arto: Man that was refreshing, all those tiredness just disappear........
Akeno: You're just in time, Arto, then I don't have to wait.
Akeno appears before him with only a towel on her body, she slowy walk to Arto, sways her hip side to side to get his attention, but it was futile, cause Arto is only looking at her face, and remain stoic at the seduction from the Queen, she then get closer too him, trail her finger along his scarred chest purring in elation.
Akeno: So manly.... Too bad you have already done showering, maybe we can take a shower together sometimes, I do need someone to help me with my back and my oh so stiff shoulder.
She then press her chest against his, sighs in sasticfaction
Akeno: This does take some weight off my shoulders.......
Arto: Don't you have Rias for these kind of situation? I mean.....
Akeno: I don't think Rias is suitable for this situation, she tend to be too gentle, no matter how many times I tell her to crank up the strength, I need some strong hand *Takes his hand* like yours only yours for this job, will you help this poor girl who is needing some help, Mr Knight ?
Arto: Fine, fine, I'll do it for you somethimes but not this time *Gets close to her face* Go take a shower, my Princess, we have a date tonight and I don't want to waste any moment of it.
Akeno: That's the definition of charming, deep blue eyes, handsome face, kind, heroic personality, I want him even more now......Right.
Akeno then gets into the shower, turns on the water, take off her towel and let the water runs through her body. The only person she could think of right now is Arto, she can't take her eyes of him, even though she doesn't like men due to some past matter, she is more guarded around men, they are all perverts in her eyes, but this man, Arto Abyssgard, he's nothing like that, he is upstanding and reliable. He never looks elsewhere but her eyes while talking to her, his eyes, his eyes, screams pain, agony, regret, sadness. 'What has he been through ? 'she wonder, but this man, maybe he is the one she can rely on, maybe he is the one that will save her.
Arto is now in his room, puts on the suit that he and Rias chose in the morning. A suit with grey undershirt, black tie, combine with the scars from his hands and neck, makes him look like a yakuza boss. He is standing in front of the mirror fixing his outfit when Rias comes in.
Rias: Oh my Satan, you look so cool even if this is my second time seeing it, I know this would fit you perfectly, Arto. And AKENO get to enjoy this wonderful sight the whole night, so unfair, maybe you should take me out in this outfit sometimes. Hey, why don't you put on another face expression? It would make you look even better.
Arto: Like what ?
Rias: Like this...........
Akeno got out of the shower, still wearing her towel around her body, she then goes to Arto's room to check on the outfit he'll wear tonight, only to see the door of his room is opened, she looks inside and see......
(A/N: Damn this looks cool)
......If Rias wasn't there, she would drop the towel and take the man right then and there. She was totally taken by surprise by the man before her, she knows he's cool, but this cool?.....
Akeno: So good looking.....all of this, just for me? This can't be better.... You're looking good there, handsome~
Arto: Akeno? How do I look?
Akeno: Stunningly handsome~
Arto: I bet you'll look stunningly gorgeous too once you put on your outfit as well.
Akeno: You don't need to tell me twice
Rias: Hey, stop flirting with each other, I'm here too, you know.
Akeno ignores Rias and goes back to her room for her outfit as well.
Rias: I have never seen her that happy before a man, you'd better treat her nicely or I'll rip your head off.
Arto: Yes, my Princess. *Rias blushes and start playfully hitting Arto*
After a short while, Akeno appear in front of Arto again in her dress, his eyes widen, definitely taken off-guard by her stunning beauty.
Arto and Akeno look at each other, ignoring Rias who has an annoyed face. She then sighs and get out of the room, give the 2 some space.
Akeno: Seem this dress does its trick
Akeno then goes to Arto's side, wrap her arm around his shoulder, Arto can fell incredible softness when bury his arm into her cleavage, but to Akeno's surprise, Arto, still remain calm and composed, she saw no trace of blush or any clumsiness in his action.
Akeno: Shall we ?
Arto: I would love to but I have only been to this town yesterday, I don't know any good places for couples.
Akeno: *Blushes* Please don't say that Arto, we are not there yet, I might get the wrong idea when you say that.
Arto: I didn't see any wrong idea in my sentence. You might need to be more specific, my Lady.
Akeno: Well if there isn't, I will expect more from you, my handsome Knight.
She then starts dragging him downstairs. Rias is now sitting at the her table in the living room, annoyed by the fact that her best friend is going to spend the night out with the man she likes. Hearing steps from upstair, she turn around to see Arto walking down with Akeno wrapped around him.
Arto: Good evening Rias, sorry we have to leave you on your own tonight.
Rias: *annoyed* Have fun you TWO
Akeno: *Smirk* Don't wait for us~
Rias is now fuming with jealousy, the pen in her hand is totally destroyed by a crimson aura, the table now has a hole around her palm.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Akeno and chibi Arto walking down the street)
Arto POV
After the while, Akeno and I arrived at the fancy restaurant a few blocks from the clubhouse. Looking at the restaurant, I feel lucky that he made 2 millions yen prior via the cat incident, I silently apologizes to Koneko if I accidentally spend all the money on this meal.
Looking at us, the waitress think we are a married couple, she then places us in the booth for the couple. The waitress then bring the menu to us, and before leaving she ask.
Waitress: Ahh, beautiful young couple, I see, how long ?
I replied immediately to Akeno's surprise
Arto: First year, still feel like a dream somehow, but I wish I would never wake up *Proceeds to wrap his arm around her waist and pull her close to him* She's gorgeous, isn't she ?
The waitress blushes seeing this.
The waitress: She is, you're lucky lady, having a man like him.
She then leaves us to decide our order.
Akeno: That's so bold of you Arto, claiming me for yourself like that.
Arto: You said you expected more from me, yes? So does this exceed your expectation, my beloved 'wife'?
Akeno: *wrap her arm around his* You don't know what you're saying my 'husband', you're making me fall for you.....
Arto: Then I'll be there to catch you, and hold you tight, never let you go.
Akeno:...there'll be no way back from this now that you make me feel safe, dependence while I am with you.
Arto: Then be free to feel that way because there's no way I am letting others harm you, my beloved Akeno.
Then the waitress comes to take our order, after long silence, the food came out then we started eating, this was also the time Akeno started with the questions.
Akeno: You are spoiling me too much, Mr Abyssgard, am I your type of woman ?
Arto: More or less, you kind of remind me of the woman I love back in my old world: raven hair, beautiful face, angelic voice, flirtatious personality, incredible figure,.......
Akeno: Seem like we have a lot in common, so, let me guess, her name is Akeno, right ?
Arto: Very funny, but no, her name is not Akeno, even if it is, I don't remember, her face in my mind is blurry, her voice, I know it's angelic but how it sounds, I don't remember. My memories are eaten, bit by bit in the void, every time I try to remember, some details are missing, and over time, there's nothing left. Weirdly, my knowledge, my experience, everything that is link to them still remains while everything else, gone, no trace.
Akeno then hugged me out of no where
Akeno: Don't worry, Arto, we can make new memories here, in your new home, I know I can never replace the woman you love but I am here, if you need someone to talk to, if you need a shoulder to cry on.
I happily put on a smile, and tell her.
Arto: You too, Akeno. You can hide a lot of things behind that smile of yours, but your eyes tell me everything, your sad, lonely eyes reflect a tragic past, where you are all alone, hopeless, desperate, scared,.....You don't have to tell me about it, but just so you know, I am here for you, always.
I can see some tears has formed in her eyes hearing this.
Akeno: I'm glad, to have finally found a truly good man like you
Arto: I'm too glad to find a place that accept me.
Akeno then brushed the tears away as the dinner goes on, we silently enjoy the other's company, we were all comfortable with each other. She even took my hand as her own property for the night, she kept squeezing my arm with her breasts, her mischeivous grin of hers when ever I looked at her make her cuter in my eyes.
3rd POV
Issei, and his 2 friends are walking together to Issei's house when they saw something that they couldn't believe in their eyes, their jaws dropped to the ground, their eyes widen seeing scene.
Akeno Himejima, one of the 2 most beautiful women in Kuoh Academy, was hugging a man, wrapping her arms on his neck, the man she is hugging is the who accompany Rias Gremory to the underwear store in the morning, and now he's hugging Akeno, resting his hand on her lower back, outside of a fancy looking restaurant.
Issei: It's that bastard, he already has Rias-senpai, and now ..............even Akeno-senpai......is also in his grasp.
He than started screaming until his mouth is covered and dragged away by his friend when they noticed someone is calling the police.
Issei: M-M-My.....ha.....ha....harem.......How, how could he, that thief, he stole 2 most beautiful women in this town in just one day, why is life so unfair, so cruel to me?
Arto POV
My ears perk up, I heard something, Akeno is giving me a questioning look.
Akeno: What is it, Arto?
Arto: I don't know, I thought I just heard someone's scream, the scream contains a lot of emotion: anger, despair, jealousy but it suddenly disappeared, weird, I thought someone need helps.
I then feel a soft sensation on the cheek, I turned back to see Akeno, smiling at me.
Akeno: The only person that needs your attention here is me, Darling~. Don't get distracted, you're having a really needy girl right here~
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Rias read a newspaper about a wolf carrying a girl running around town with a big question mark over her head)
3rd POV
Making back to the clubhouse, Akeno parted from Arto and retreated to her room, swaying her hip side to side to focus his attention to her, Arto just lightly shake his head before looking at Rias who look annoyed seeing Arto with a lipstick mark on his cheek
Rias: You 2 had fun, I see, How was your night with Akeno ?
Arto: Great, I guess, I thought we were playing a role-playing game, but at the end of the night, it's not a game anymore.
Rias: Well, I hope you can take good care of her, she can be needy sometimes, especially when she find a reliable man, someone she can trust, like you, Arto. I'll be counting on you from now on, okay?
Arto: I'll do my best, I guess.
As Arto and Rias was talking to each other, Akeno is now in her room, she locks the door, takes off her clothes, sets up a sound proofing barier, then flops on the bed, completely naked, she wraps her arms around a body pillow while thinking about a certain man, her hands slowly start touching her sensitive spots while constantly screaming his name at the top of her lung.
Arto starts to walk to her room, before Rias calls him back.
Rias: Arto, make sure to lock the door tightly tonight, or maybe set up a protection barrier, just in case, okay ?
Arto: I'll keep that in mind. Who I am kidding ? I'll freaking do it. I'm in danger, somehow.
After Arto went back to his room, Rias, sighed, and then she take the master key of the house and a long rope and head to her Queen's room
Rias: I need to make sure that she doesn't pull something off during the night......if it means tying her up
She then uses the master key to open Akeno's room, to see Akeno, lying in bed, naked, panting heavily, the lower part of her body pillow is soaking wet, and the smell, the erotic smell of an exstremly horny girl, wanting her man so bad she just want to barge into his room and let the animal inside her take over.
Noticing Rias, Akeno sit up and look at her King, panting in her speak
Akeno: Yes......Rias?
Rias: How was your night?
Akeno: It's wonderful, every second of it. Arto give me safe, secured feeling, he is a man that I can trust, I can openly speak about my past to him, because I know he will accept me for whatever reasons, he also has a tragic past, his eyes reflect a horrible life, fire, blood, corpses, but he cannot forget them, they are link to his knowledge and experience, and while those painful memories remain, his memories of those he loves fade over time in the void.
Rias: That's pure tragedy, no wonder he doesn't like to talk about it, well, I have disturbed you enough, but one more thing before you go to bed.
Akeno: What is it, Rias ?
Rias: NO sneaking into his bed, got it?
Akeno: Ehhh? No, I want to be with my precious Arto, I need his warm, gentle embrace, he also needs mine. Or are you banning me to take him all for yourself, President ? That's abusing your power as a King, you know ?
Rias's got red hearing what her queen said.
Rias: No....no.....of course..... I will not do that, you know it.
Akeno: Then to make sure, you gotta sleep here tonight with me, so we can keep an eye on each other, we can use this *Takes the rope and ties their wrists together* to prevent cheating.
Rias: Fine *Takes of her clothes* don't sneak into his bed, okay ?
Akeno: I am the one who should tell you that.
After some arguing, 2 ladies fell asleep. Meanwhile, Arto is in his room, he goes tho his armor, take out a necklace with a bird-like creature symbol on it.
![Arto: I am so sorry, I can't remember you, but there's one thing that I never forget, it's my love for you, [UNKNOWN], I miss you](https://img.wattpad.com/30ae3cc7e71760ebe283c3e20fccb2540d092103/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f73744754433279766b37613553773d3d2d313434313537313535392e313763613335383731336439653762653833333036383139373539322e706e67?s=fit&w=1280&h=1280)
Arto: I am so sorry, I can't remember you, but there's one thing that I never forget, it's my love for you, [UNKNOWN], I miss you, my dear.......
Notes:
That's the end of the bondings, what do you think?
Chapter 4: The study
Summary:
Arto is getting used to his new life as he started to study new knowledge and face his old problems with a help of a certain princess
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Rias stires awake, she rubs her eyes and look around to see Akeno is still asleep, Rias's wrist is tied together with Akeno's from last night with a rope she brought to her Queen's room. She quietly take the rope off her wrist before proceeds to head down stair, but she heard a voice behind her.
Akeno: Look who decided to forfeit the game, which mean I have come out victor, now~......
Before Akeno could reach out to the door to head to her precious Arto's room, naked, Rias pins her down the bed
Rias: No sneaking Akeno, you're making him unconfortable...
Akeno: But he needs his beloved Akeno, besides, I am rushing, not sneaking....
And the fight begins..........
After a few minutes, Rias has finally knock her queen out, she is now back to sleep, Rias sighs before picking up her clothes and go back to her room, when she come across Arto's room, she tried open the door but it's locked, so in the end, she heads in the shower, puts on her uniform before heads down stair for her early meeting with a person. That person is a girl her age with black short hair, pink eyes and she is wearing a pink oval pair of glasses.
???: What do you need, Rias ? It's must be urgent since you called me so early in the morning.
Rias: Yes, Sona, I need to talk to you about something before school start again.
Sona: What is it?.
Rias: I need your help to clear a new transfer student for me, he's been here 2 days ago, and I want to keep him close to us
Sona: New peerage member, heh? Why didn't you tell me about him? We rule this town together, Rias, informations should be clear and honest between us.
Rias: Right, I'm sorry, I totally forgot, but he's not a member of my peerage.
Sona: Then why do you want to keep him close ? Don't tell me he is some kind of dangerous being that you accidentally take in.
Rias: No, not that, he's totally normal, do you remember the stray group that annoyed us so much the past few weeks ?
Sona: Yes, those strays were a pain, but how does this related to that man ?
Rias: We found him in the process of capturing those strays, we made a treasure chamber filled with mimic chests to trap the strays, but when we arrived to see the result, we found that man, with the strays lying here and there and the corpses of 6 mimic chest I put in there.
Sona: So he kill 6 mimics, that a impressive feat considering how strong and micheivous those mimics can be.....
Rias: He did that while being extremely exhausted, his heavy panting could be heard clearly. Not only that, even in that state, he was still faster than Kiba, my Knight, I took us another 45 minutes of chasing to finally cornered him. After explaining the situation to him, he immediately collapsed on the ground and now here he is.
Sona: Then why didn't you recruit him into your peerage ? His strength and speed are exceptional. Or are you playing it fair and inform me about this man ? If so, I am glad you also gave me a chance with a potential candidate.
Rias: I did gave him an offer but he declined.
Sona: Well, then it is......
Rias: Don't, he will not give up his life to become a devils, after my conversation, I could see that he values his life, he doesn't want to throw away his human life just to become devil. Besides.....
Rias take out her Knight piece and show it to Sona
Rias: I promise him I will save him with this when he's on the verge of death, I save this piece exclusively for him so you don't have chance
Sona: Fine, fine, but still, I want to have an attempt too, maybe the offer you gave him is not enough for him.
Rias: I'd love to see you try, Sona.
Sona: Well, in return of giving me a chance with him, I'll help him get in the school, what is this man's name?
Rias: His name is Arto Abyssgard.
Sona: Abyssgard ? Might have to change it a bit to prevent commotion, how about.......
Rias: I'll ask him about it, thank you Sona for your help.
Sona: It's only fair, remember to send me his measurement for the uniform, okay ? Oh, one more thing, which year?
Rias: Second, like us.
Sona: Got it, well, goodbye for now, I have something to deal with.
Rias: Have a great day, Sona.
Sona then teleports away, leaving Rias lean her head on the sofa, then she hear a sultry voice coming down from the stair
Akeno: He's going to school with us ? so I get to spend more time with him....
Rias: Good morning, Akeno, you sound very happy today.
Akeno: Why yes, I am very happy, because I am getting Arto's measurements, I have always been curious about it~. Ahhh, I get to measure his arms, his chest, his abs, his legs, his...... *Dances her way to Arto's room with a a tape measure in her hand*
Rias: *Runs after Akeno* Hey, cut that off, I am the one who will take his measurements, leaving him to you is dangerous.
Akeno: So you have decide to play the game properly huh? Well you'd better defeat me to take this tape measure. Or else I'd do the honor and get to witness that strong body of his upclose.
Rias: *blushes* Akeno, give me that tape measure....
Akeno: So you like looking at his body too, yeah ? How naughty of you, Rias.
Rias: I DON'T CARE, GIVE ME THE TAPE MEASURE.....
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Akeno and chibi Rias playing rock paper scissors , and Akeno came out victor )
They both come to Arto's room, Rias is carrying a paper for information with a defeated look while Akeno is having a tape measure with her victory smile. Akeno knocked on the door, and said:
Akeno: Arto darling~, can you let us in ? We need to talk to you~
Then the door opened, revealed a naked, sweaty Arto in front of the 2. They both blush heavily after seeing this.
Akeno/Rias: Oh my......He's hot........I can never get tired of this.
Arto: What is it, ladies ?
Rias: Can you let us in ?
Arto complies and let the ladies in, he is now standing while Akeno and Rias are sitting on the bed.
Rias: Here's the matter, Arto, are you interested in school ?
Arto: School, where people come and learn together, yes? *Rias nods* Yes, I am vey interested, I have never been to a school before.
Akeno: Really ? Then how did you learn all those things ?
Arto: Back then I was educated differently from others, I was isolated, training, studying on my own with a program unlike people my age. So to have a chance to study in a class with everyone around me would be a great experience. But what's with the measure Akeno is holding with excitement ?
Akeno: I gotta get your measurements for the uniform, so stand still and let me touch your ..........no, no, uhh, take your measurements ,yes, take your measurements.
Arto: o~kay? But first, let me take a shower first, I am all stinky and sweaty now, it would take a few minutes.
Rias: It's okay, take your time, Arto...
Akeno: Now you're mentioning it, I haven't had a shower either, how abo......*Rias covers her mouth*hmhmhm
Arto: Yes Akeno ?
Rias: It's nothing, quick, go get your shower.
Arto then went to the bathroom.
After a while
Arto came back to his room in his pant and towel over his shoulder
Akeno: Come here darling~ Let me see how big you are~Rias, prepare to write~*smirk*
Rias menacingly holding the clipboard and a pen, dark red aura coming out of her. Noticing this, Arto comes close to Rias and gives her a hug. His hug calm her down instantly
Arto: What is bothering you, Rias? You can whisper to me if you don't want anyone to hear it.
Rias: Warm and fragrant.....in your face Akeno... I am perfectly fine, you don't need to worry
Arto notices that the aura is no more so he is less worried.
Arto: Okay then, where were we ?
Akeno: He calmed her down instantly, impressive Measuring time.
Akeno said as she started to wrap the tape measure around Arto's body
Rias: Arto ?
Arto: Yes ? *Lift his arm for Akeno to measure his chest
Rias: About your name, it might cause some commotion among students *write down his measurement* so I recommend you change your name a little while going to school.
Arto: Right. I think I'll go with Aruto Abyga, how does that sound ?
Rias: That sounds really good, *Writes down another measurement* and your birthday ?
Arto: I don't know....
Rias: You don't ?
Arto: Seriously, I have never known my birthday, I just know that I exist in this life, choose the one that you like.
Rias: Then I'll choose the day we met as your birthday which is April 11th, how does that sound?
(A/N: Let's assume that the school will start on April 20th and the time in this chapter is April 13th)
Arto: Good enough, Akeno, can you stop touching my butt ?
Akeno: I can't help it, your cake looks very delicious, in exchange, I'll let you touch mine if you want.
Arto I'll pass, is there any other information that I should know about ?
Rias: That's all for now, Akeno! Put your tounge back, no licking !
Akeno: Oh c'mon, just wanna taste my man a little.
Rias: We have gathered enough informations let's give Arto some private *Dragging Akeno with her*
Akeno: Goodbye, Arto~, see you at school.
Arto POV
As the ladies left my room, I sat on the bed, I checked my wallet, I sighed in relief because the fancy meal I had with Akeno only cause me 60,000 yen each, I still have plenty of money here but I still need a job, to make a living, I can't just go and fetch lost animal and hope for the high price from the owner. Fortunately, I am in a contract with Rias's family as her ally, I have monthly wages at about 200,000 yen, which is good, considering I've just arrived in this world for 2 days, this much should be enough because I only have to pay for food, everything else from school, house, water, electricity are all covered by the Gremory, ahh, rich people.
But I need to do something to live up to those paying, I can't let her pay me while I am doing nothing to help her. Hmmmm.........I know ! I can be their teacher, this peerage has so much potential, I can train them like how I train Kiba, but how much is enough ? Rookie, Novice, Intermediate, or....... Abyssgard ? Will they die if train them the way I was trained back then ? Should I build a time dillation or simulation room to train them ? So many questions, maybe I need their opinion on this, to see if they want to go with this. But first, I must know how things work, how magic in this world functions, and I know where to get documents for this.
I went downstairs to see everyone in the clubhouse: Rias is doing her paperwork, Akeno and Kiba are enjoying their tea, Koneko is eating sweets as usual. I then went to Rias and ask.
Arto: May I ask you something, Rias ?
Rias: What is it, Arto ?
Arto: I want to borrow some documents about magic, basic documents.
Rias: I thought you know how to use magic already ?
Arto: That's magic from my world, most of them cannot be applied here, so I want to know how magic in this world works, that way I can be more of use to you.
Rias: Okay, I'll get you as much as I can.
Rias then teleported away for a few minutes before coming back with a cart full of books.
Rias: There you go, is this enough for you ? I could only get this much in one go.
I approach the cart in amazement, this is so much, with these, things will get less boring
Arto: We'll see about that. Well, I am heading to my room for studying, call me when lunch time comes.
Before they could reply, I took the whole cart and brought it to my room to study, I closed the curtain, turned on the table light and wore a headband with a word 'study' on it and started studying.
Arto: Uh huh, so that's how it works..........Interesting............This symbol is similar to...........
(Timeskip: Brought to you by books and notes all over a table)
Book after book was finished and thrown back to the cart, notes started to pile up as I study, note down everything useful, I lose sense to my surroundings, suddenly, a voice reached out to me
Akeno: Arto, It's lunch time, come eat with us, will you ?
Arto: Just a minutes.
Akeno: Don't make me wait too long, sweetie~ The food is getting cold.
I closed the book I was reading and turn off the table light, then head downstairs for lunch, today's lunch consists of: rice, grilled fish, omlette, miso soup, a light but delicious meal, I quickly finish my lunch and go back to my room to keep on studying. I don't know how much time has passed, I was too focus on my studying, before I know it, I heard Akeno's voice again.
Akeno: Dinner time, my Arto~
It's dinner time already ? It felt like 2 hours to me, but I look out the curtain to see the sun has set, I sighed, then closed the book I am reading and head downstairs for dinner, one different thing this time is that it's my turn to do the dishes after dinner, I do it with Rias, when we were doing the dishes, she asked me
Rias: How was your studying ? Are the documents I brought useful ?
Arto: Oh, very, I have learned a lot today, there are some similarity in the magic of my world and yours but most of the time, it's different.
Rias: I'm glad I can help you with that, but what is your goal in studying this ? Like what are you going to do with your new gained knowledge ?
Arto: My goal is to help you guys improve your power, I want to do something for you guys after all the hospitality you show me, a complete stranger. And to do that, I need to know how things work this world.
Rias: Can you really do that ?
Arto: Theoractically, I can, I have lots of experience in training my Abyssgard warriors back then, I am confident I can train you to be stronger physically and mentally. Take you Rias for example, I sense destructive power in you, red and black orbs, what do you call it ?
Rias: We just call it 'Power of Destruction', you can sense my magic ?
Arto: Yes, I can. You have a powerful feature, but the way you use it kind of dissapoint me, you could have done so much more.
Rias: Can you be more specific ? I want to improve myself.
Arto: Then let's finish our duty first then I'll tell you.
Rias happily complied and we quickly finished washing the dishes. Then we went to my room, Rias is sitting across from me on my bed while I am sitting on a chair.
Arto: Let me see, the way you use your power, is too predictable, you just shoot orbs of destruction at your opponents, offense: kinda, defense: dissaprove if you meet an opponent with high speed, you might not be able to react in time. For example, back at the treasure chamber, if it's not for Kiba to save you, you would have died under my blade......
After Rias heard this, her head lower when realising her mistake.
Arto: .....You can totally use your power in a defensive way, like coating yourself in a layer your 'Power of Destruction', with your massive mana pool, you can even coat your teamates in 'Power of Destruction' and sustain it for quite a while. Remember Rias, it's Destruction doesn't mean it's only used for offense.....
Rias is surprised when she heard this, her face shows that she has never thinked of this.
Arto:..........Even if you are using it for offense, it can be smarter, you can create objects and order them around as your scout like a plane, a bird, a snail, a rock,...... Did you know that you can send your vision to the object you created ? And once again, you have what it takes: a massive mana pool, you can totally cover the whole battlefield with you explosive eyes, all you need is a direction. And you are a King, a leader, this is a something you must learn and master to command your peerage to victory.
Rias's eyes widen before my words, but she lowered her face right after that out of dissapointment.
Rias: I didn't know that I lacked so much in all aspects. Arto, how will I improve ? Please tell me !
Arto: You don't need to tell me, I'll help you anyway, not only you, your whole peerage, I can see so much potential and hidden power in your peerage. I'll do anything I can to make you guys stronger, because I am a part of this family as well.
I can see Rias has some tears formed in her eyes as she hug me tightly, this girl can be sensitive sometimes, which is very cute, no wonder people like teasing her so much.
Rias: Thank you, Arto, thank you so much. Just tell me what we need to do.
Arto: First, let me finish my study. Then I can come up with a training plan for each of you guys.
Rias: Got it, if you need any documents, just let me know, okay ?
Arto: I will, now get yourself some rest, because when I finished my study, you will not have anymore time for resting.
Rias: Okay, thank you Arto, for showing me my flaws, I trust that you can make me better.
She then gave me a smooch on the cheek before getting back to her room, but she stops at the door.
Rias: Don't stay up too late, okay ? And remember to lock the door.
Arto: You don't have to tell me.
The moment she got out of my sight is the moment I get back to study, there are still a lot of books to read. I started studying again and my sense of time left me. After about 5 hours of studying to me, I got distracted by a ray of light make its way into my eyes, I annoyingly look to find the source of the light until I realise the light came from the sun, did I just stay up all night for studying ? I then hear a knock on my door, a familiar voice reach out to me.
Akeno: Are you awake, Darling~ ? Breakfast is ready.
I sleepily replied.
Arto: Yes, Darling, I'm coming.................Ehh? What did I say ?
Suddenly, my door, swing open, so powerful to the point that the door knob created a hole on the wall, Akeno barged in, look at me straight in the eyes, I can see her pupil is now heart-shaped then she asked me
Akeno: Arto, I didn't clearly hear what you said, can you repeat EXACTLY what you said just a moment ago.
Arto: I said 'Yes, Akeno, I'm coming '. Yes, I said that.
Akeno: No,no, that wasn't what you said, you said a word, a word after that 'Yes' ,a word starts with a D and end with a G.
She then look at me more intensely expecting the answer she already knew.
Rias: What is the meaning of this Akeno ? Why did you destroy this poor door knob ?
Arto: My savior !!!!!
Rias then walk in, she notice something on my face before she rush to me as well, she press her front on Akeno's back push her closer to me before scolding me.
Rias: What did I tell you about staying up late ? This is not good to your health, look at the bags under your eyes, you must have stayed up all night, go take a shower, and join us in breakfast before I lecture you
Rias then menacingly drags Akeno out of the room, leaving me in awed, I have never seen this side of her. I then take a quick shower, before nervously join Rias and Akeno in breakfast. The breakfast went through in silent before Rias start lecturing me about staying a up late.
After the lecture that feels like infinity, I went back to my room and start studying again, the rest of the day went through pretty smoothly, Rias doesn't seem to be mad at me anymore, fortunately. After dinner, I went to my room to study again, today I have another cart of book from Rias because I have finished studying the last cart, a fourth of the book shelf besides my desk is filled with my notes, but this is still not enough, I need to know more. And so I lost my senses in studying again, and after 3 hours of studying in my senses, I feel someone turned my chair around, snap me out of the studying, then I saw Rias in her night gown looking at me.
Rias: Do I have to scold you again, Mr Abyssgard ? Did none of the things I said this morning got in your head? Now, you have 2 options: get to bed on your own or I'll have to make you.
Arto: But I almost finish this book, just a little more, please, Rias. I mean, How late could it be ?
She then show me a clock and it is.........3 a.m !? It's that late already ?
Rias: It seems that I have to put you to bed on my own.
She then pick me up by my waist and throw me to the bed, I totally forgot how physically strong she is, and before I could do anything, she jumped on my bed as well and hold me in place by hugging across my chest, her head is now on my shoulder and she wraps both of her legs around my leg. Yep, no more escaping.
Rias: No more studying tonight, you can do it tomorrow, and I'll be here to make sure you get enough sleep. Now, Goodnight.
She uses magic to turn off all the light. And before I know it, I fell asleep in her warm embreace, and entering my dream, where I am so familiar with.
Rias POV
I woke up in a dark place, no trace of light, I slowly stand up to see the darkness around me, my devil's vision only help me see myselft a bit clearly in the dark but nothing else, I try to wander around but to no avail, I have lost my sense of direction, I tried yelling to see if there's anyone around, I try contacting my peerage but no answers, I don't know where I am. My mind started to get panic by the second, I sit down to collect myselft, to stay calm, to find away out of this. Deep breathe, deep breathe, I can't be panic now, stay calm, stay calm, me, I need to know what this place is? How did I get here? And if I am here, where is Arto? The questions keep lingering in my mind, distract me from my panic, insecured feeling.
I then stand up and start to walk aimlessly into the dark, I don't know if I am going forward or I am going in circles, I just keep myselft moving, in hope that will find something, a ward, a mark, a person, whatever it is. My legs keep trembling with every step, afraid that I might fall, but all the ground here seems flat, so I get a bit more confident while walking. I open my wings to fly up high to look for something, but nothing appeared before my eyes, I slowy landed to the ground to feel something with killing intense from behind me. I quickly jump to the front to hear a slam from behind me, it sounds like a giant axe, I turn back looking it at it, my body starts shaking went it got into my sight, a big creature with pale skin, red scary eyes, big belly, long big arms with sharp claws and a giant axe on one of its arms.
I can't mutter any word as it keep coming closer to me, raise its axe to split me in half, I use all my strength to jump to the side, successfully dodged its axe. After this, I get more confident in every step of mine, when I got far enough from the monster, I started firing my destruction orbs at it, and it seem to be working since I can see some burnt mark on the monster, but it keep charging toward me, I keep my distance and keep fire orbs at it, I am dealing more damage over time since the monster has slowed down, it seems my orbs are getting through its thick skin since I saw some blood leaking out. So I focus my attacks in those points, and its eyes, after a few attempts, the monster is now blind and is swinging its axe aimlessly, I take this chance and to get closer to the monster, create a bigger orb in my hand, I shoot it at the monster, blow its head off, killing it instantly.
My body is still trembling for some reasons, maybe it's the feeling of victory, or is it because I am still scared. But the feeling doesn't last long because I sense multiple presences as terrifying as the things I've just killed around me, when my vision got clearer, tens of those same kind of monsters appeared, they have surrounded me, raising their weapons, as they are about to turn me into minced meat, I opened my wings and fly up in the sky, this make the monsters lose their momentum and hit each other, some one them might have died because of this.
As I was in the ait, I heard something, the sound of weapons smashing into eachother, there's someone here, I am filled with hope, thanks Satan I am not alone here. The sounds come from my right, I turn to the sound to se something, something that I crave to see, light, dim blue light. And from this height, I can also see a majestic scene, giant tides of darkness are trying to take out the light but the light stands strong, it pushes back every dark tide around it.
In high hope, I fly at top speed to the source of the light, the closer I get the louder the weapon's sounds get louder, it's like an army of warriors is fighting tides of monsters to protect the light. But the closer I get the clearer the scene before me, the light is just a small bondfire, there is no army, there's only one person, one person who is fighting all of those monster alone, I then realise who it is, that armor, I can never miss it, Arto, Arto Abyssgard.
I quickly flied to him, I landed behind him, but it seems he doesn't know it's me. He swings sword at me, and as he said before, I didn't have time to react, I prepare myself for my death, but it never came, the sword is only a few milimeter from my neck as it stopped.
Arto: Rias!? Is that you? Is that really you?
I am on the verge of tears knowing that he still recognizes me
Rias: It's me Arto, it's really me.....
Arto: Careful!!!
He pulls me into his embrace to dodge an attack from behind me. His body is soaked in blood, cuts appear all over his armor, yet he still fights.
Arto: Cover me!
Rias: On it.
I shoot a monster from behind him while he is dealing with the dark tide at the front. It was easy at first but their number keeps rising, to the point I am overwhelmed my their number, but Arto saved me again, he then tell me.
Arto: Time for you to learn new skills, Rias. Have you ever tried 'Destruction wave' ? *I shake my head* here follow my lead.
He said as he made some hand signs, while also fighting monsters to prevent them from coming to me, I followed his instructions to the last step where my hands intertwined. He yells
Arto: DOME!!!
Rias: DOME!!!
A destruction power wave spread out, killing everything on its way. I feel both proud and shame, proud because I was able to help him, but ashamed because he knows my power more than me, the person who is born with it.
Arto: Keep going Rias, there is more coming, no time to feel ashamed.
Rias: Right!
As the fight goes on, he taught me the meaning of every hand sign, teach me how to modify the spell with hand signs. I tried lot of things under his instructions like: killing all the small monsters or big monsters, kill those with 3 eyes or kill those with wings,....After a few waves of monsters, I am getting the hang of my new skill, now I can modify it as I want, I can command the wave to only kill the enemy. And Arto is very happy about my achievement, but we have to move on, there are more to come.
We have been fighting these monsters for 7 hours straight, I have had some cuts on my body, my clothes are tattered, my body is painful, but weirdly I don't feel tired at all, I can keep going if I could push through the pain, and my mana is regained in a tremendous speed. I must admit, Arto is a great teacher, I can even teach me while fighting intense battles, I gotta learn from him more.
The fight has ended, no more monsters coming our way, I sigh in relief and sit besides Arto at the bonfire, the only source of light in this place
(A/N: The fire is blue though)
Rias: So, what is this place?
Arto: This is my dream.
Rias: Your dream? Do you get this often, Arto cause this is horrible
Arto: I don't get this often, I get this everyday of my life, even from my past life, now it follows me here.
I'm shocked hearing this
Rias: You have to fight this every day?
Arto: Yes.
Rias: But what if you lose? What will happen?
Arto: Then I wake up and have to stay up the rest of the night, my body can't sleep anymore, it's like a penalty for losing.
My eyes widen hearing this, so his mind has to fight armies of monsters to help his body sleep, his life is even more miserable than I thought, but how could he be so positive about this? How could he still smile at all this?
Rias: I can't believe your life is tough even when you are asleep.
Arto: Well, at least I have you with me through all this, how do feel about all those battle?
Rias: I was scared at first, but with your help, I feel better now. But on the bright side, it's a good place for training, like I have perfected a new skill only after a fight here.
Arto: Wait, say that again.
Rias: What? Good training ground?
Arto: THAT'S IT. Thank you Rias, Thank you so much......
I look at him in surprise, what did I even do to help him? I didn't, he almost got killed because he was teaching me how to use my power, so why are you thanking me, Arto?
Arto: ....for being here with me.
Rias: Huh!?
Arto: I have always been on my own here, no one around, no voices, just monsters scream, you don't know how many times I just want to drop my sword and end this madness. You don't know how tired of fighting I am, yet I still move on, still fight, because of the damn will I inherited from my ancestor....
He then points at the blue bonfire.
Arto: ....'The will of the Abyssgard' that keeps me fighting, struggling with a faint hope that one day, this darkness will end. But it never.....
I can feel tears running down my cheeks hearing this, this man's life is pure hell, even his mind wants to torture him. I want to do something for him, but What? And how?
Arto: ...Then you came, Rias....
He points at me, his voice is shaking, it's like he is about to cry.
Arto:.....for the first time in forever, I am not alone. I have someone I must protect, someone I can teach, that someone is you Rias, you gave this place, a dark arena a purpose, good training ground for you to develop your power, not only that, you gave me an aim, a goal to reach, something that is achievable. Thank you Rias, thank you.
I can't take this anymore, I jumped into his arms, hugged him tightly I don't care if his body is soaked in the blood of himself and the monsters, this man needs me, I need to get stronger for him, so that he never has to fight alone again, I have so much to learn from him, and I'll do my best to take as much as I can in, for this is his goal, his aim, his hope. Arto, don't worry, I will never leave you alone in the dark, I will be there for you, even if I am weak, frail, or scared, I will still be there, for you, my Arto Abyssgard.
Suddenly, the blue bonfire started to burn brighter than ever, it turned into a pillar of blue light, illuminate the whole place in its light. Arto lightly smile.
Arto: Seems like we are waking up, Rias, it is good to have you here....
I reach my hand out to him, which he happily take.
Rias: Let's go home
Arto: Agree.
We then walk straight into the light pillar
3rd POV
The sun has risen, and it shines through the curtain of Arto's room, straight into the eyes of Arto and the girl that sleeps besides him, they slowly stir awake, they both open their eyes at the same time, they both rub their eyes before looking at each other in the eyes, Rias can see some tears has formed on Arto's eyes as he suddenly pull her into a hug, she can hear him sniffing in every breathe.
Arto: Thank you, Rias, thank you for being with me in my dream, thank you for helping me, for giving me the idea, the purpose for that dark arena.
Rias: I should be thanking you, for instructing me, thank you for being my teacher.
They both smile brightly while cuddling into each other, this gave Arto the sensation he's never felt in a long time, her body is so soft, the rose-like smell flocking his nose and the feeling of her hair tickling his skin make it even better. But as they were cuddling, they hear a certain someone's voice from the ouside of the room.
Akeno: Arto~I am here to wake you up, breakfast is ready~
Hearing this, Rias puts on a mischeivous smirk, before she speaks.
Rias: Yes, Akeno, just a moment, we'll come down in an instant, I need a to change my clothes a bit.
Suddenly, the room's door suddenly flies open, the door knob is now in its hole again, Akeno step in the room in her night gown
Akeno: No wonder I didn't see you in your room, President, so you were sleeping with my Arto the whole night.
Rias: *Hugs his neck* Who said he is your Arto? He is my Arto.
Akeno: That is not a fair play, Rias. You banned me from sleeping with him only for you to be here, spend the whole night hugging him. Are you afraid that he might like me more so you decided to cheat? Well, maybe next time I need to use some tricks too.
Suddenly, Akeno jumps on the bed as well, hugs Arto from behind, presses her chest against his back, he can feel the softness of her hands on his body, and her lavender smell is fighting Rias's smell in his nose. She then licks the back of his ears before whispers into his ears.
Akeno: This is better, Right?
Rias: I heard that, and for your information, I slept with him last night to prevent him from staying up late and .............
Akeno: ......But you still slept with him while the one who should be sleeping with him is me..........
Rias: .......It's also for training purposes.......
Akeno: .......what did you guys train~ hmmmm?..........
Rias: .......Fighting
Akeno: Ehh?
Rias: I was training in Arto's dream with his help to get stronger, I was fighting waves of monsters with him the whole night, for 7 hours straight, with no rest. Right, Arto?
Arto: She did, and she did learn a new skill and master it after last night training.
Akeno: I still don't believe it, can you prove it to me?
Rias: As you wish.
Arto: Now ladies, time for breakfast, we can do the proving stuff later, I am starving.
Akeno/Rias: Right.
They then come down stair for the breakfast, after that, they are now in the back of the clubhosue, Rias is showing her new skill to Akeno.
Rias: Choose anything you like, I will destroy it with my 'Destruction wave'
Akeno smirks and give Rias her task
Akeno: I want you to destroy that tree with out harming anything beside it, and by anything I do mean anything, no grain of dirt should be destroyed, just the tree, and only the tree. Arto~, would you help me measure the exact size of the tree to the smallest part of the root.
Arto: On it. Good luck Rias, I trust that you can pull this off.
Arto then move infront of the tree, he makes some hand signs, and now everything that belongs to the tree is in front of him iniside a magic circle in 3D mode, everything is highlighted, down to the smallest part of the root. He gave the result to Akeno to examine, after sastisfying with the result, she nods to him and says
Akeno: We are all set, show me your new learned skill Rias~
Rias takes a deep breath before standing before the tree
Rias: You can do it, Rias, you have train this a lot in his dream, now it's the show him how much I have progressed.............But can I really do it? What if I failed? Wil he be disappointed? Will he stop training me? Will be abandon me?
With thought in mind, Rias nervously looks back to Arto, to see he gives her a thumb-up, and nods to her with faith and determination in his eyes, this ignites something in her as she closed her eyes and starts making hand signs with tremendous speed. After a good 10 seconds, She yells.
Rias: DOME!!!!
The destruction wave spread out, destroy the tree immediately, but the result..........Akeno then get closer to the tree, or to the hole left by the tree, she use magic to get the shape of the hole, down to the minute details and compare it to the root of the tree before it's destroyed. Arto look at the result with a smile.
Rias: How did I do ?
Arto then come to her and give her a hug, Akeno joined them right after that, Rias mutters
Rias: Did....I.....do......it ?
Arto: You gotta ask ?
Rias's face brighten, she hugs Arto and Akeno tightly.
Rias: YESSS, I DID IT, I can't believe it, I could pull this off.
Akeno: I gotta admit, it is impressive, your result is perfect. Guess you are one-up from me, but just you wait, I'll even the score soon.
Rias: I'd love to see you try.
They both laugh brightly after this.
Arto: Their friendship is unparalleled, the fight sometimes but they still love each other....How do we celebrate this?
Rias: There's no need, this is just a small achievement, I still have a long way to go.
Akeno: If you say so, but I want to sleep with Arto too.
Rias: You can sleep with him tonight, just so you can learn new stuffs from fighting alongside him.
Akeno: YAY *Hug Arto's neck* I'll see what you have to teach me, Sen~sei~
They then head in the house and enjoy the few days left before school starts again.
Notes:
That's the end of the one on one chapter with Rias, next one will be of course, an one on one with our wonderful girl Akeno. So stay tuned for the stories to come.
Chapter 5: The past
Summary:
The promised one on one with the wonderful Akeno
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
The day went on pretty normally, Arto continued his study after a hearty lunch with Rias and Akeno. The cart of books is running out again so Rias has to bring him another cart, his notes have now filled half of the book shelf next to his table.
And Akeno constantly visits his room, brings him cookies, coffee, milk, brownies to eat, they are all delicious but he can taste something weird in those foods, faintly but it's there, ignoring weird stuff, he keeps on studying the night away. But as time goes on he can feel some weird urge in his body, combined with the erotic smell behind him, he takes a deep breath, suppresses the weird urge, ignores the smell and keeps studying.
Unknown to the man, there is a certain woman who has been sitting on his bed the whole night, waiting, anticipating for something, but nothing happened, she got no reaction from her man, and it's 2 a.m already so she is getting impatient, she is pouting, sulking because he is not noticing her. After a few more minutes, she has had enough, she launches herself at the man, wraps her arms tightly around his neck, snaps him out of his studying
Akeno: Arto, it's so late already, let's go to bed, shall we? I can't let you stay up all night like this, it's not good for your health.
Arto: Just a little more, you go to sleep first, there is still something I gotta do.....
Akeno: I won't let you.....
She then lets go of him, goes to the front and sits on his lap, she wraps her arms around his neck, bends her body to get as close to him as possible, her stomach is aligned with his, her chest is pressed against his, her face gets closer to him, to the point their noses touch as she speaks
Akeno: We can go to bed or we can stay like this all night~ Make your choice, Darling~
Arto: You know? I don't mind staying like this, there is an incredible sight before my eyes, I can stare at your beautiful face all night, Akeno.
This causes Akeno to blush, she then replied
Akeno: Then how about we move to somewhere more comfortable so that you can look at me the whole night.
Arto sighs at her request, he then lets the urge inside him get to him a little, he proceeds to wrap his arms around her butts and stands up take her with him
Akeno: You are so bold, Arto~ How do my butts feel?
He then lightly squeezes her butt with his hand, which got a yelp out of her before whispering in her ear
Arto: You gotta ask?
Akeno blushes as he moves her to the bed and sits on it, with Akeno on his lap.
Akeno: You don't know what you are asking for, my precious Arto~ You don't know how much I want you, my Darling~
Arto: Why do you even want me even after you have me, my beloved?
Akeno: Are you inviting me, Darling~?
Arto: Nope, I am sleepy now, c'mon, it's late.
Akeno: You are no fun, Arto.
They then get to bed, Akeno is on top of him, before sleeping, Akeno sits up, takes off her nightgown.
Akeno: Like what you see~~?
Her naked body is illuminated by the moonlight, combined with the weird urge that has been attacking him the whole night makes it harder to resist her. But he still manages to withstand her charm, keep his composure. He manages to put his hand on her back and pulls her down, and lays her head on his chest, this will prevent him from looking at her, reduce her charm on him
Arto: I do but you're so beautiful I might not be able to sleep.
Akeno: Well I am not planning to let you sleep anyway.
Arto: Then why did you pull me out of my desk anyway, hmmmm?
Akeno: So that I can have more time with you, you have always been studying, you don't have as much time with me anymore, I feel kind of lonely you know.
Arto: C'mon it's not that bad, we've just met.....I don't know.....3 days ago.
Akeno: It's enough time to grow attached to someone, especially someone as good as you.
Arto: Isn't that......a bit too fast?
Akeno: It's not, I know a good man when I see him, especially when I live among perverted men, trust-worthy men like you tend to stand out a lot, it's just you don't realize that.
Arto: Then we can spend a lot of time together in my dream, c'mon, let's sleep.
Akeno complies and lays her head on his chest again. Arto then wraps his arms around Akeno's back and falls to sleep immediately, the last thing he remembered was Akeno's soft and smooth naked skin and her fragrant lavender smell.
Akeno POV
I gained my consciousness again and woke up. I expected darkness like Rias described to me about her dream with Arto, but what was given to me was a snow field. Everywhere I look, there's only snow.
However, I didn't feel cold even if I was wearing my school uniform. I take a look at my hand to see that I could see through it, I am like a ghost, I also realize that I don't leave footprints on the snow as I walk.
To my front is a big wall, stretches thousands of kilometers around something, to my back is a castle, a black castle stands alone on the snow field, behind that castle is another layer of wall, even bigger than the one on my front. I decided to go toward the castle as I spread my wings and flew toward it.
The closer I get to the castle, the more insecure I feel. The castle has crimson light on a black wall to make it look kind of evil in my eyes.
I slowly approach the castle to see guards in dark armor adorned with intricate silver patterns that exudes an aura of mystery. The armor features a distinctive helm with a crown-like crest and a flowing cape. Each one of them is wielding a longsword on one hand and a knife on the other.
They don't seem to notice my presence as I stand in front of them, so I just walk past them into the castle. The castle has a dark tone to it, all the halls are lightened by crimson torches. As I walk the castle, there is no sound, it's like there is no one in the castle.
The castle has a lot of rooms but most of them are empty, the atmosphere here is bleak, boring, and cold. But something caught my eyes when I walked through a big hall of the castle, portraits, thousands, if not millions of portraits are hung throughout the hall. The art style of the portraits varies, but a large portion of them are similar to those from the Renaissance, everyone in the portraits has a noble vibe to them, some are portraits with their sword, their swords look exactly like those of the guard of the castle. Some are portraits with their pet or companion, their dogs. What surprises me is that some of the dogs have their own human form, and according to the portraits, they are quite attached to their master since they all stand near them in the pictures.
Another thing I realized about the portraits is that some of them have a crimson color on them, almost blood-like. It's like someone painted a crimson layered onto the pictures. As I was inspecting a portrait, suddenly, the portrait slowly turned crimson which freaked me out. I took a few steps back because of it. Behind me, the big door of the hall swung open for some guards to walk in carrying portraits, they walked past me and started to hang the portraits on the wall of the hall. Then they went to the crimson turned portraits and took them off the wall and brought them away.
I have been wandering the castle for quite some time but as I look out the window of the castle, nothing seems to change, the sky is still the same, no sun, no moon, just bleak sky and snow. And since there was nothing I could find on the upper floors of the castle, I decided to explore the lower floors of the castle, where the secrets of it tend to be.
I arrived at the basement, what I saw totally astonished me, opposite to the medieval vibe on the upper floors, the infrastructure down here reflects that of the modern future
I went straight through the door in front of me as I'm in spirit form. After going through that door, more people started to appear and they were not guards, they were more like scientists with lab coats, long pants and microscopes. I curiously approach a scientist to see that he is studying.....plants that can grow in an extreme environment, I can see why they are doing this, The extreme environment requires extreme measures. I then went deeper into the basement, seeing more scientists and labs, their studying subjects vary from survival measures, magic, simulations, time dilation, genes and......weapons, the researchers are studying some strange metal I have never seen before. After a while, I reached the lowest part of the basement to see an empty room. I saw a man wearing the same armor as Arto standing in the room, he's looking at a source of light in the middle of the room. Could it be him? I approached the man to see if he was Arto or not.
Nope, he's not my man. I then proceed to look at the source of the light to see......an arena. Inside, there are a lot of disgusting monsters, red eyes, black bodies, extremely threatening.
They are surrounding something.... someone.......a........boy!? A black haired kid only about 8 to 10 years old, standing in the middle of the monsters, fighting them all at once.
The boy's body is brutally bruised, blood spills out all over his body, still, he's holding his sword tightly, a smaller version of the sword the guards use. I can hear him panting heavily, his eyes barely open, yet he still launches himself bravely, or recklessly at the monsters, slaying them one by one. Not just sword and strength, he is using magic as well, his free hand constantly forms hand signs, shooting magic attacks at the monsters. He dodges with such speed and accuracy I have only seen in a few people, not to mention he is not even 10.
Even with such talent and strength, the boy has his limit, the boy soon is cornered by giant monsters he couldn't deal with. The boy was beaten, brutally by the monster, he was swung around like a sack of potato to the wall of the arena. I can't help but cover my mouth in awe at the sight. The fight was over when the boy couldn't move anymore. Monsters that were approaching him disappeared, a pillar of light shone upon the boy and teleported him to the room where the man and I were watching. The boy was severely bruised, some of his bones are likely to be broken, his blood spilled all over the floor. The man still has an emotionless face as he takes the boy by his hand and drags him on the floor to an elevator inside the room. I follow them to the place they are heading to. It is one of the upper floors of the castle, he drags the boy to an empty room and throws him inside. He then leaves the boy to fend on his own. I slowly approach the boy, and sit beside him. I tried to touch him but my hand just went through him. I thought the boy was dead until I heard something. I put my ear near the boy to realize that the boy was still breathing, he's still alive.
After a while, the door slowly creaked open, and a man in butler outfit came into the room.
On his hand is a first-aid kit, he quickly examines the boy's condition, after confirming the boy is still alive, he uses the kit to treat him, holding the blood, disinfecting the wounds, bandaging the wounds. After everything is done, he quietly leaves the room, letting the boy heal on his own. After a while, about an hour, the boy slowly opens his blue eyes to my surprise, he sits up and looks around, it seems like he doesn't see me either. The boy looks at the bandage on his arms, his legs, his torso, then I can see tears running down his cheek as he hugs his arms around his knees, and his head collapses on his arms and starts to cry. I could hear him mutter something in his sniffles.
The boy: Why.....*sniff*......am.....I.......*sniff*........still...........*sniff*...........alive.....?
I am surprised at what he said, the boy then continues.
The boy: What.......do......*sniff*........they........*sniff*.........want..........*sniff*........from.......me....?
The boy: What.......did.........I...........do.............to..........them.......*sniff*?
I can feel my tears running down my cheeks hearing him, I want to give him a hug, sooth his tormented mind but I couldn't, he cannot hear me or feel me, the only thing that I could do is sit by his side, accompanying through this pain. As the boy lifts his head up from his hand I can still see tears streaming down his face, but there is something in his eyes that I can see, both of his eyes have a strange mark, it looks like blue flame, it's burning within his eyes. After that, the boy screams loudly as he slam his head into the wall, committing suicide. I tried to stop him but to no avail. But after a few attempts, the boy stops his suicidal act, I look into his eyes and see that blue flame in his eyes is burning brighter than ever. The boy then fell on the ground, fainted immediately. I decided to sit beside him as he sleeps. In this form, I don't feel sleepy, so I just sit there and look at him as he sleeps.
After some times, about 6-8 hours, the door suddenly swung open, revealing some castle's guards, they quickly surround the sleeping boy in the room, put a blindfold on his eyes and carry him away, as they carry him, he was equipped a sword, the same one he used last night, and a coat. They carry the boy to a portal with that man who watched him fight last night standing beside it, he nods to the guards, and they throw the boy out of the portal. I follow him through the portal to a bed of snow. After a few minutes, the boy was awakened by the cold weather. He looks around then at himself, it's this time I realized something is written on his jacket 'Survive 7', so he has to survive 7 days out here. He notices the message and starts wandering, before starting the journey, he said something astonishing to me.
The boy: At least I have a full meal out here.
He then starts walking toward the forest in front of him with his sword in his hand, his wounds from last night have not yet healed. As the steps were driven side to side by the wind from where he was, from the look of it, each wind was like a bunch of razor knives, because I could see the cuts starting to appear on the young boy's coat. He finally got himself inside the forest, where the wind isn't that harsh on him, he quickly jump on a tree branch, I follow him with my devil's wings, he snaps some small tree branches to make fire, after he's done with the gathering, he jump down on the snow and started digging up the snow and started building a snow cave. He is doing with such mastery I could barely imagine, it's like he has done this so many times before, after that, he gets inside the snow cave he made, bringing the branches he gathered with him inside, he arranged the branches and start a fire with magic, after starting the fire, he gets outside and gathers some snow, before melting them with the fire to make water. The only thing that is missing is food and a warm blanket, the boy then gets out of his cave with his sword, he marks his cave with magic so that he can return when possible, he then ventures deeper into the forest, to find some food. After wandering for a few hours, he finally found his opponent, a giant white bear with red eyes, scars, sharp claws and thick skin to withstand the wind.
The boy looks at the bear with no fear, he prepares his sword, his magic, his spirit to fight the monster. The monster came at him with tremendous speed despite his size. The bear swung its enormous claws at the boy, he was able to dodge it but the tree beside him was not so lucky, it was snapped like a toothpick before the strength of the bear. Before the bear regains its stance, the boy quickly shoots himself at the bear, using his sword which is now enhanced by his magic and slash at the bear, this did leave a wound on its skin and make it angry but not enough to defeat the creature. The monster launches itself again at the boy, this time, it's even faster than before, the claws keep slamming at the boy, doesn't give him any time to strike back, so he keeps dodging the monster's attacks with equal speed as the monster. After a while, the bear got tired, and it's time for the small warrior to fight back, a series of sword slash is launched at the monster, leaving quite a lot of wounds on its body especially its eye, one of them was blinded by his sword, I can see some blood started to leak out of the creature's body. The warrior steps back and jumps to a tree to regain his stamina, and prepares for the monster's attack, but to our surprise, the bear turns its back to us and starts to run away.
Not wanting to lose his meal and blanket, plus he has spent a lot of time trying to kill it. The boy furiously chases after the bear, he jumps from branch to branch, with me closely behind him on my wings, he flies deeper into the forest, so deep that I can hardly see the ice cave he made anymore. Suddenly, the bear stops, this surprises both me and the warrior. He quickly makes his way to the monster, only for a pair of claws to hit him directly in the chest, sending him back with a claw mark on his torso. Blood started to drip out of his body. We could see 2 shadows starting to rise up from the snow, it's 2 more bears, the same size as the last one. Astonished by the scene before him, combined with blood loss and body temperature drop, his face turns pale at the scene, but he knows he cannot run anymore, so once again, I hold his sword tightly, against 3 giant monsters. I wish I could help him, but I can't do anything but watch the boy fend for himself. He quickly got as far as he could from the monsters while casting a healing spell on himself, this helped close the wounds but not enough to fully heal it. The bears seem to notice the boy is healing, so they quickly barge at the boy, using their claws to kill the boy as soon as possible. The warrior's speed is significantly reduced by his wound, so he's having a tough time dealing with 3 monsters. More small cuts have appeared on his body as the battle goes on.
The longer the fight, the more disadvantages the boy gets, but he seems to realize something. Instead of dodging to the back, he launches himself into the middle of the bears, grabbing onto the weakest one's body, the one he wounded back then. The other two, in their blood drunk, strike directly at the one he's grabbing on, kill it instantly, one down, 2 to go. He uses the same tactic again, grab onto the torso of one of the 2 remaining bear, to bait the other one, but they seem to have learn their lesson, they about to slam their belly together, to squash the boy in the middle, but he manages to jump out before he's turned into jam.
He has to change his tactic, the only weapon he has is his sword, cause his magic doesn't seem to work with those 2 bears, because of their thick skin, the boy aims at the eyes of one bear, only to be pushed back by the other bear. But the little warrior just remembered something, he then create a clone of himself out of snow, he orders the clone to run at another direction, one of the bear runs after the clone, leaving the other for the boy to deal with, he then manages to blind the bear with his word, just about time the other bear came back after destroying the clone, the young warrior then uses the old tactic, he grabs onto the body of the unblinded bear, and make noises to get the blinded bear's attention, it furiously barges at the sound and force the other bear to protect itself by fighting back, the 2 bears got into a fight and one of them is now dead while the other is heavily wounded. The only thing that the boy has to do now is execute the other bear. When things are done, he skin all the bears and drag one of them back to the ice cave for food supply. I come alongside him, amazed by how smart he is for a 10 years old kid. As he comes back to the cave, he uses fire and ice to perfectly clean the bear's fur and use them as a blanket. He rewards himself with a hearty meal made out of bear meat before tucking himself in his new bed.
Akeno: He looks so cute when he sleeps like that ... .this little warrior, sometimes I just forgot that you are just a boy.
I then proceed to pat his head as he sleeps. I know that I can't touch him, but this makes me feel better cause this boy deserves so much more. I then lay myself down beside him, even though I am not sleepy, a little nap wouldn't hurt. I slowly close my eyes and when I wake up I can see his cute sleeping face. I proceed to stare at his face for quite a while until he stirs awake, goes open, his deep, blue eyes remind me of a certain someone. He wake up and look out of the cave, I follow him out to see the forest
Akeno: This place is cold, dark but gentle.....little one, do you find peace here, I wonder?
The next day passes in peace, he uses bear meat for food, a bear skin for bed, ice for water, tree branches for fire, a cave for shelter, he has everything here, it's better than that castle for sure. His wounds from the fight with the bears slowly heal as the time goes on. But everything ends on the last day when the magic circle that is drawn inside his jacket glows, a portal opens and the castle's guards come out of the portal, as the boy was about to fight back but one of the guards activates a switch, this makes something behind the boy's head glows and shocks the boy with high voltage electricity, the boy quickly collapses as they take him back to the castle. I follow them back as well. They took the boy back to the man that night, he gestured to them to take the boy to the basement, they nodded and took the boy there. I follow them, afraid that he will be thrown into the arena again, but no, the boy is moved into a room with all the walls are black boards, on them are loads of spells written all over. The guards then splashed the boy with water to wake him up. As he wakes up, he looks at the boards around him and sighs, so he starts to study the spell on the wall. At this moment, I realized, this boy is unlettered, he studies the spell all by heart, he just mechanically memorizes them, without knowing how it works. The spells only consist of 2 things: magic circle and the name of the spell, but the boy doesn't know how to read the spell name, he just casts the spell, sees what it does and memorizes the spell and its effect.
After about 2 hours of memorizing the spells, the guards came in again and shocked the boy till he fainted, then carried him to the arena. When the warrior wakes up, he is surrounded by monsters again. The little warrior gets in his battle stance as the monster barges at him, and the fight begins. The more the warrior kills, the more monsters come at him, with his new memorized spells, he's gained some advantages against the monsters, he can now push them back, with the ice wall and ground ditches with crystal spikes, electric nets are doing a good job against flying monsters. He's holding himself pretty well until bigger monsters come in: they are like walking skyscrapers, hundreds of them, not only them, there are also thousands of meat tanks slowly approaching the warrior. The tanks shoot magical bullets destroying the wall he made, the giants easily fill the ditches with their gigantic feets, making way for the tank to pass. The boy has to change his strategy, he makes clones out of the dirt and commands them to distract the tanks while the main one destroys them. As the tanks were focusing on his clones, the little warrior destroys the tanks one by one, after a day, yes, 24 hours of constant fighting, all the tanks are taken down, the only problem left is the giant, the little warrior, who is now bruised and battered, just like the first time I see him. He pants heavily as he looks at hundreds of giants before him. He tightly grips his sword, and launches himself at the giant, using the same strategy as he used against the bears, make them fight each other, he jumps from one to another, makes them punch into each other's face, and it took another 24 hours for him to take out the last giant. The boy can't stand anymore, he fell face-first on the floor, instantly unconscious. The man watching the whole fight, order his guards with an emotionless order
The man: Take him out.
The guards comply and take the kid out of the arena and put him on the ground. The man slowly approaches the boy, bends down to the boy and strokes his hair with an evil grin.
The man: Good.
The boy then is dragged into a good room of the castle, a room with a well made bed, golden candles, fragrant, warm, he is also treated with a good, hearty meal. So that's how it is. If he wins, he will be treated well, if not, he's just a piece of trash to him, no more, no less. I get into the room with him, he has a look of relief but also sadness, I don't know why, but he doesn't seem happy about it.
As time goes on, I started to see why, that good hearty meal he was treated with never come back in the next 6 years, for most of the time in those 6 years, he had to survive for 7 days with a single bar of dry food, he hardly get any survival missions so he rarely get a full meal. And the arena, he has to do it every day, even if his wounds haven't healed, he is thrown into the arena anyway.
I have been here, everyday, 6 years, I have stayed by the little warrior's side, watch him grow, gave him encouragement, even though he can't hear them, give him head pats and hugs, even though he can't feel them, but someone has to do it, for this kid, for he has been tormented for all his life, I even abandoned my search for Arto for the boy here, I am sorry, Arto, I am so sorry, but this kid needs someone by his side, he deserves someone by his side.
But as the boy grows, realizes something, he has grown up into someone familiar, that eyes, that face, that voice,....it's so familiar, wait, all 6 years, I have never known this boy's name, could he be......A....r.....t....o? Arto? Could it be? My beloved Arto Abyssgard?
Suddenly, I feel someone's arms wrap around me, I turn around to see him, my beloved, Arto Abyssgard, he is smiling at me with tears running down his face.
Arto: Thank you for freeing me, Akeno. Thank you so much.
Akeno: Arto!? ARTO!!
I yelled as I hugged him, squeezed him tightly in my arms, I could feel tears running down on his armor.
Akeno: Where were you all this time? Arto, please tell me!
Arto just lightly smiles and points at the kid who is sleeping on the cold floor.
Arto: In there.
Akeno: Then, that kid.....
Arto still maintains his smile as he says
Arto: That's right, Akeno, that's me. My younger self. I was trapped in there, 16 years, forced to experience everything again, until you came......
Akeno: How? How did I find you?
Arto: .....You recognized me, you freed me from that nightmare, you saved me, Akeno. I am usually trapped here for 2000 years. But you're here. But you were here for me. I can't thank you enough.
Akeno: This place is......your past?? It is pure hell.....how did you live through all this......
I look at him, I can see he is still smiling, but tears never stops running down his cheeks
Akeno: ....How can you still smile at all this?....
Arto: ....Beside smiling, what else can I do? Akeno, what else can I do!?
This man, my beloved........What did he do to suffer from all this? He's more broken than I could ever imagine, this is just 16 years, and there are still 1984 years to go. He has to go through all this, 2000 years, in one night. What else is waiting ahead if I haven't recognized him. Arto, Arto,.....
Akeno: Don't worry, I'm here, Arto, I'm here, my Darling, you will never be alone again, I promise, you'll never be alone again, everything will be alright, lean onto me, cry as much as you like, I will never leave you, like I didn't in the last 6 years. You'll be safe with me, my beloved.
He keeps crying his eyes out, it's like tears never stop flowing, but I don't mind, because he needs someone by his side, he deserves someone by his side.
Arto: Thank you, Akeno, Thank you so much, for freeing me, this is the soonest I have ever been out of the nightmare. You don't know much it means to me.
Akeno: Don't worry, from now on you'll never see a nightmare again, because I am here.
As I said that, a pillar of light appeared behind us, Arto reached his hand out to me.
Arto: Shall we?
I happily take his hand
Akeno: Let's get out of here, together.
We then walk inside that pillar of light.
3rd POV
Arto and Akeno slowly open their eyes to feel streams of tears are flowing down their eyes, they look at each other before they share a warm hug
Arto: Akeno......
Akeno: Arto......
Arto: Thank you for being there for me, you freed me from that nightmare, I can't thank you enough. What can I do to show my thanks?
Akeno: I am always available for a date if it's you. Or you let me sleep with you from now on. Make your choice, Darling~
Arto: Anything would do, as long as you're happy.
Akeno: You are so sweet, Arto. I'll take both, please~
Arto then places a kiss on her forehead.
Arto: As you wish, my Darling~. You have been craving to hear that, haven't you?
Akeno: So you did remember what you said yesterday. Well, feel free to call me anything, just make sure to fill it with love~
Arto: I'll keep that in mind. So what do we have for breakfast, dear?
Akeno: I was about to ask you that. Why don't you surprise me, sweetie~? I remembered you handle those bear meat pretty well, I didn't taste it but from the smell, I dare say it's delicious.
Arto: Sure, I'll do it.
He then gets out of bed, gets downstairs to make breakfast, leaving Akeno giggling to herself before heading into the bathroom for a shower. When she's done, she goes to the kitchen, to be hit by a wonderful smell from where her man is standing, she approaches him, makes a small jump to reach higher, she then wraps arms around his neck and looks past his shoulder to see what he is making.
Akeno: It smells wonderful, dear~Can't wait to dig in.
Arto: Then wait for it at the table, maybe you could call Rias as well.
Rias: There is no need...*yawn* I'm here, so Arto is making breakfast today...*stretches* smells so good, can't wait.
Arto: Well you 2 don't have to wait anymore, here you go.
He then places 2 plates of omurice on the table. The ladies can't resist it anymore and started to eat
Arto/Akeno: So good~~
Rias: Where did you learn this recipe?
Arto then takes a book from the kitchen counter and shows it to Rias
Arto: 'Dishes for your loved ones', author: Venelana Gremory, this "accidentally" got into the book cart, and now here it is.
Akeno: Lady Venelana will be very proud, having a son-in-law who appreciates her dishes, right, Rias?
Rias: *blushes* Of......of course she will.
Arto: She's your mother!? Mom's dishes sure are the best huh? I wish I had a mother
Rias: Indeed, well, thank you for the breakfast, Arto, we'll do the dishes, you can go study for now.
Arto: My thanks, Rias, so I'll go studying now, bye.
He then heads upstairs to study, leaving Rias and Akeno behind.
Rias: So, how was your night with him, Akeno?
Akeno: Eventful, I had a journey through his past, and I gotta say, it's more awful than we could ever imagine, and I have only been there for 6 years
Rias: Do tell me, I want to know him more too.
Then Akeno tells Rias what she went through....
Rias: That's.....That's.......insane, he lived 2 thousand years that way? That's painful, awful, I couldn't imagine......he has to relive those nightmares......
Akeno: There are still a lot of questions, but I'll ask him later, for now, let us clean up.
Rias: Right.
After the clean up we get back to our normal activities. Until lunch, this time, Arto is helping the girls make it, Ramen, Arto is dealing with the meat and vegetables, Akeno is making the broth, and Rias is making the noodles.
Akeno: There's something I wanna ask you, Arto, about that dream last night.
Arto: What it it?
Akeno: Who is that man? The man who watches you fight? The man who tormented you?
Akeno looks to Arto to see his face darken because of the question, she was to apologize but he takes a deep breath and and says
Arto: That man, he is my creator...
Rias: Creator, you don't mean your fa....
Arto: DON'T say it, he's not my father, he has never been, no father would treat his son like that, the only thing he did was making me, that's all.....
His voice was filled with anger, hatred, pain, and sadness. Rias saw this and went to hug him, calms him down
Rias: It's okay now, Arto, he's not here to hurt you anymore, you're now in a new chapter of your life, you now have us instead of him as your family.
Arto: Thank you, Rias
Akeno: So he's just like me....
They then continue to make the ramen, and turn out wonderful.
Kiba: This is so good, the meat is well-seasoned, the broth is flavorful, and the noodles are chewy. You guys made a great team you know?
Rias: *Puff her chest proudly* Of course we are.
Koneko: *slurp* you are right, I don't know Arto can cook.
Akeno: I am just as surprised as you are, it's only discovered this morning. This man will be a great husband in the future for me.
Arto: *scratches his cheek* Ohh, don't say that. ....
The lunch went through with joy and laughter, after that everything was back to normal. Until bedtime...
Arto: Why are you two here again?
Akeno/Rias: You know why we are here ,Arto~
Arto: You want to sleep with me?
Akeno/Rias: Nope....
Akeno: ...I want to prevent you from having a nightmare...
Rias: ...I want to train with you...
Akeno/Rias: ....and sleeping with you is just the means for us to do so.
Arto sighs and gets out of his desk and heads to the bed, he flops on the bed and the girls secure their places on either side of him: Akeno on his left and Rias on his right. Akeno lays her head on his chest and hugs his stomach while Rias lays her head on the crook of his shoulder and hugs his chest. When the girls are comfortable with their positions, they yawn sleepily, seeing this, Arto gives them a goodnight kiss, something he read about in the cookbook of Lady Venelana, 'Your loved ones would appreciate a goodnight kiss after a hearty, delicious meal'. He kissed Akeno on top of her head and Rias on her forehead. This makes them blushes
Arto: Goodnight, Rias, Akeno.
And to his surprise, they kiss either side of his cheek, and they smile at him
Akeno/Rias: Goodnight, Arto.
And they are slowly driven into their slumber.
Notes:
That's the end of the solo journey of Arto and Akeno, there will be a one on one chapter with Koneko and Kiba in the future, so stay tuned
Chapter 6: The school
Summary:
Arto's first day at school with friendly and 'not so friendly' new people
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
One more week has passed, Rias and Akeno have officially moved to sleep in my room, they constantly train in my dreams under my instruction, Kiba and Koneko also do the same but not as much as the former 2 since they do it in the real world instead of dream. About the notes, I have successfully filled the entire book shelf next to my bed with notebooks, not just magic, also, history, science, cooking recipes (Thank you Lady Venelana), and......romance? What did Rias get me in those carts and why did I even read and take notes of them? I don't know.
Problems aside, today is the first day I go to school in like....forever. From when I was young I was always isolated from my fellow young legion mates, my creator prevented me from interacting with everyone, I was trained, raised differently from others, but more on the negative side. Anyway, this is my first time coming to a place where everyone gathers and studies together, this will be fun. I come to school with my friends, well, 1 friend and 2 'a little above friend', Kiba, Rias, and Akeno. About Koneko, she is studying at a junior high near here and she'll join us next year.
3rd POV
Koneko is walking to school heavily, she keeps cursing a certain man in her mind. With every step, she pants, that man puts her in a spell that increases her body weight by 200kg (Chibi Arto: Infact, it just makes her feel so instead of actually increasing her weight). The worst part is that only he can lift that spell.
Koneko: Curse that Arto, if we have any medical check today, I'll make sure he'll never be able to see tomorrow.
She speaks as she acts as normal as possible while carrying herself to school.
Arto POV
My body suddenly shakes, it's like someone is saying my name with hatred.
Akeno: You okay, Arto?
Arto: I don't know, feel like someone is menacingly talking about me.
Rias: Did you provoke anyone in the past few days?
Arto: No, I have always been with you guys, who could I have provoked? Meh, it's probably nothing.
Kiba: Well, I have cleaning duty today so I'll go ahead, see you guys in school.
Arto/Rias/Akeno: See you, Kiba.
After Kiba was gone, we relaxed and walked to school while talking, cause we still have plenty of time before school starts.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the chibi trio: Arto, Rias, Akeno walking together)
We are finally here, Kuoh Academy. A school that has changed from girls only to co-ed from this year according to Rias, that's the reason why I can study here.
This school is very beautiful to my standard, wide school yard, lots of trees, bright classrooms, beautiful uniform, but the skirt for female students is too short, I'll send a complaint when I know how to. I can see students are heading to school as well. When they see me walking to school with Rias and Akeno, there are two threads of opinion, divided by gender. (I have casted a spell on myself to cover my scars)
Girls: 'Who is that new handsome face?', 'Damn he's handsome', 'He is buffed as hell', 'I wonder how strong can he grobe', 'So manly',....
Boys: 'Who the hell is that pretty boy?', 'Why is he walking with our ladies?', 'Does he have something to do with our Rias and Akeno?', 'Stay away from our girls you bastard',....
People focus their attention on me, make me nervous, I look around to see people eyeing me, talking about me, I am not used to this much attention, I start to get scared until Akeno pats my back.
Akeno: It's alright, Arto, this is what happen whenever a new student come, especially someone like you~
Rias: Plus, you are coming with us so it should cause some commotion, but it will die out eventually.
Their encouragement makes me calm down a little. Akeno and Rias take me to the building where we will study, then we part ways, the girls will get to class while I go to the student council room to get my schedule.
Akeno: Don't keep me waiting, Arto. It'll be very lonely without you~
Rias: *tug Akeno shirt* C'mon, let's get to class.
As I head to the student council room, I can still hear whispers about me like: I am a gangster, I am from a yakuza family, I am the bodyguard of Rias and Akeno, I am....gay? What is that?,......I just ignore all the comments about me and keep walking until I meet the student council room. I knock on the door, then a girl with long black hair that reaches her knee, a amber colored eyes and a light blue rectangular pair of glasses open the door for me
The girl: Ahh, you must be the new transfer student, please come in.
I come into the room to see beside her, there's also another girl with black short hair, pink eyes and and an pink oval pair of glasses
The 2 girls both have demonic aura around them, so just like Rias and Akeno, these 2 are also devils.
Short hair girl: you must be the new student this year, mr....*looking through papers*
Arto: Aruto, Aruto Abyga.
Short hair girl: Yes, Mr Abyga, let me introduce myself, I am Souna Shitori, the president of the student council, and the girl who just opened the door for you is the Vice president, Tsubaki Shinra.
Arto: It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Shitori, Miss Shinra.
Sona: Nice to meet you too, so here is your schedule, do you have any questions, Mr Abyga?
Arto: Yes, I do. How do I send a complaint to the school?
Sona and Tsubaki's eyes widen hearing this. After a moment, she regain her composure and says
Sona: You can tell me directly, and I'll make sure to let the school council know about your complaint.
Arto: Great, I have a complaint for the school council. Why does the skirt of the female students have to be so short? It's not safe for them to walk around, even to school like that, a small wind could make it easy to see whatever under their skirt. How in the hell could a prestigious school let this slide? LOOK! The only thing that the skirt covers is a bit of your thigh and you have 3 layers of shirt for your upper body. I wholeheartedly hope the school council will have a change for this in the next year, because there are boys studying here too, it would be unsafe for the girls. Plus, it's not suitable for winter, their legs will be frozen because of this design. Whew, I'm glad I let all those things out, did you get all that?
Tsubaki remain calm while Sona face got red because of what I said
Sona: Yes, we did, we will make sure to let the school council know about this.
Arto: Thanks, now if you excuse me, I have a class in 5 minutes
Sona: Okay, we can't keep you here forever, have a nice day.
Arto: You girls too have a nice day.
I waved at them before heading to my first class.
3rd POV
Sona turns to her Queen.
Sona: He sure is interesting huh Tsubaki?
Tsubaki: Indeed, President, might need to watch him more
Sona: It's a good thing we study in the same class as him, now, let us wrap thing up before we are late for class
Tsubaki: Yes, President.
As Arto walks in the hall to find his class
Arto: 2-C, 2-C, where are you?.....
Suddenly, someone bumps into him, this doesn't flinch him but this might give the other person a bad time. He looks down to see 3 people, one bald, one with glasses, and the one who stands out the most, brown hair, stupid face. And this is the person that bumps directly into Arto because he is suffering from the most damage. Arto reaches his hand out to them
Arto: Are you guys alright?
They snapped out of the accident and looked at him only to notice...
Bald: Issei, is that.....
Glasses: That's right Issei, it's him.....
Arto tilted his head to the side in confusion, before he could ask, the brown-haired boy named Issei spoke in astonishment.
Issei: You are, You are......YOU ARE THAT PLAY BOY THAT DATES BOTH AKENO-SENPAI AND RIAS-SENPAI AT THE SAME TIME!?
His yell was so loud that it got the attention of all the students who were heading to class, they quickly gathered around the accident, to see what happened.
Issei: This is it, you'll be ruined because of this, then you'll have to leave Rias-senpai and Akeno-senpai, then it'll be my turn, they'll be in my harem.
Random boy: What were you talking about? He's a new student, how could he.....
Issei: You don't know, one week ago, I saw him going with Rias-senpai into the female underwear store at the mall
Random girl: But that store doesn't allow.....
Issei: He had the permission from Rias-senpai.....
Arto: Then what do we have to discuss here? Besides, Rias needs someone trust-worthy, unperverted to protect her, you guys don't know how many men try to sneak into the female underwear shop, the mall even has guards that specifically protect this shop. As I remember, these 3 were those that were kicked out of the shop by the guardsman while "casually" getting in there.
The disapproval gaze was on Issei and his friends again. The comment started be heard
Girls: 'They live up to their name', 'Disgusting Perverted Trio', 'How dare you accuse such an upstanding man?',.........
Boys: 'You made a bad name to us men', 'Why is it always you guys?', 'This is bad, how will girls think of boys from Kuoh Academy?',...........
Issei: Not only that, that night, I saw him eating in a fancy restaurant with Akeno-senpai, and they even hugged each other outside of the restaurant.
Arto: Well, what's the problem with that? Can't I hug my friend? I think you are over-dramatizing things. It's just a meal between friends. Why are you thinking that just because a boy and a girl are having a meal together, they are surely dating?
People are looking at Issei again, and suddenly, a big threatening voice comes from outside of the crowd.
Sona: WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!? EVERYBODY BACK TO CLASS NOW!!
The crowd quickly scattered, leaving Arto and 'Perverted trio' there. Arto reaches his hand out to Issei again, only for him to slap his hand away. Sona comes to Arto and drags him along with Tsubaki behind her, ignoring the trio to fend for themselves. They look at him going with Sona and Tsubaki with hatred and jealousy.
Sona: Why did you get yourself into this, Abyga? This is your first day of school, you know.
Arto: I am so sorry, problems tend to come my way. Anyhow, I am looking for class 2-C. Can you lead me there, Miss Shitori?
Sona: That's the same class as mine and Tsubaki's. Come with us, we'll lead you there.
Arto: You have my thanks, Miss Shitori, Miss Shinra.
Sona: Don't mention it.
Tsubaki: It's only natural to help our new classmate.
After a few minutes, we arrived at the class, Sona and Tsubaki headed in first and told the teacher about the new student. After a while the teacher came out to see me.
The teacher: So you are the new student? Please come in, everyone would love to see you.
I then head to the class to see some familiar faces, Sona and Tsubaki, yes, but also Rias and Akeno as well they are sitting in the back of the class, Sona sits with Akeno, Tsubaki sits on the next line of table to the right of where Sona sits, and the seat beside Rias is empty, I wonder why it's available, men would kill to have a seat beside one of the most beautiful girls in the academy. The moment I came in......
The boys: NO!!!!!
The girls: YES!!!!!!
I nervously wave at everyone before standing in front of the class.
The teacher: Everyone, today we have a new transfer student. Please introduce yourself.
Arto: Hello everyone, I am Aruto Abyga, it's an honor to study here with you guys, I hope we can get along. Do you have any questions, I'll answer to the best of my abilities?
Arto can see lots of people raise their hand, mostly girls, he point at and girl as she stand up
Arto: Yes?
The girl: What is your hobby, Aruto?
Arto: I like reading, studying, enjoying peaceful moments, chilling in the sun,...that's basically it, I tend to avoid conflict with pretty much anyone.
Another girl raised her hand
Arto: Yes?
The girl: Have you joined any club?
Arto: I haven't, since this is my first day of school, so do you have any recommendations?
The cooking club girl: Yes, you can join our club: cooking club, we gather to share our cooking recipes, cooking experience, and on the weekend, we cook for the orphanage in the town. We'd be glad to have you join us.
Arto: That's very sweet and helpful of you to make those kids happy with your meals, I'll be sure to take your offer into consideration. But may I ask, can I still join you guys to cook for the orphans even if I didn't join the club? I would love to help out, those kids have suffered enough without their parents.
The cooking club girl: Yes, of course, the more the merrier, we could always use some help.
Arto: Splendid, maybe we should exchange our emails to exchange the schedule.
The girl's face brightens hearing this, her friends look at her in awe, she manages to get the contact info of the handsome new student after a few sentences.
Arto: Anymore questions?
A skinny boy raised his hand. Arto points at him.
Arto: Yes?
The boy: You look kind of muscular, can you share with me how you train? I want to look muscular too.
Arto: Certainly, in fact, I'll design a training plan for you, I'll need your email for that. I appreciate your training spirit.
The boy: Okay, Thank you so much, Aruto.
A girl nervously raises her hand, Arto points at her with a smile, this makes her even more nervous.
Arto: Yes?
The girl stands up, she touches her index fingers together in embarrassment, she then ask
Nervous girl: Aruto, are you single?
All the girls in the class focus on him after hearing the question. Arto is a bit surprised knowing the question, he looks down to Rias and Akeno to see the two ladies having a threatening dark aura around them, Sona has a nervous face while looking at Arto like saying 'Stop these 2'.
Arto: To be honest, I am not single at the moment, but we can still be friends if you want.
Rias and Akeno seem to be content with his answer as their auras die down.
Teacher: If there isn't any more question, Aruto, please take your seat beside Miss Gremory. Please raise your hand for our new student, Miss Gremory.
Rias raised her hand for him to see her. He moves down to sit beside her, she waved at him while talking to him in sarcasm.
Rias: Nice to meet you, Abyga-kun, I hope we can get along.
Arto: I am looking forward to working with you as well, miss Gremory.
They both burst out laughing before hugging each other, this earned a lot of looks on us.
Random boy: HOW!? He earned a hug from the Rias Gremory, something I could only wish for in my wildest dream, on his first day.
Random girl: Welp, there goes our chance with him. I never thought when he said he's not single, he is with the Rias Gremory.
Arto: Good to see you, Rias
Rias: Good to see you as well, Arto.
Then he receives a signal from Akeno's aura, asking why only Rias gets a hug, he sighs and writes on her back using his finger 'Come here, my Darling'. She quickly turns back facing him before giving him a bone crushing hug. After the hug, he asks her.
Arto: That was painful, why?
Akeno: For not hugging me first.
After that hug, he can feel more eyes are on him. Then the class finally started, the teacher started going through the lesson, Arto got into his study mode. After 15 minutes in studying mode, the lesson is over, Arto looks over to see Rias when she asks him.
Rias: How was your first lesson at school, Arto?
Arto: Pretty uninformative, all of the things the teacher said, I already knew about them, I was just focused in order to show her respect for teaching us.
Rias: How could you stay focused in such a boring lesson?
Arto: Do you remember when I studied at the clubhouse? *She nods* Whenever I study, I get into a state of high concentration, it makes the time flow 3 times faster for me but the efficiency remains the same, like the lesson lasts 45 minutes but when I am in study mode, it only lasts 15 minutes. That is the reason why I can study the whole night without much problem, because it only feels like a few hours to me.
Then, Sona turns back to talk to Rias, she touches Rias's arm, surprised by what she feels, before she asks.
Sona: I see some muscles are starting to grow in your arm.
Rias: Yes, that's the result of my training, beside leading the team and long-range battle, I am learning close quarter combat under this man's instruction *pats Arto's shoulder*. And I gotta say, sometimes, stretching my body a bit feels so much better than sitting around doing paperworks.
Sona: So how do you deal with this? *presses Rias's chest make it jiggles* Doesn't it hurt while fighting?
Rias: It does at first, but I am dealing with it for now using this.....
Rias then cast a spell onto herself that made her chest stiffen. Sona's eyes widened seeing this. She proceeded to press Rias's chest again to see it as hard as a rock.
Rias: But this will not do in the long run, but before I can solidify my destruction power and make an armor out of it, I will make an armor with the help from Arto to support my chest while fighting, and before that armor is completed, I will use this spell.
Sona: Interesting, where did you learn that spell?
Rias: I made this spell myself.
Sona: Huh!?
Rias: Don't look so surprised, it's not that hard to make a spell. At least from what Arto taught me and Akeno. Look, he even gave us this
Rias then takes out a notebook from her bag, inside are exercises about making spells, half of them is done
Sona: Tell me how you do it.
Rias: Sure, first you read the requirement, like this one *point at a long requirement*, now you have a desired result, after that, you convert your desired result into mana flows, to see how the mana flows are bent, then you make symbols that help you bent the mana flow the way you want for the result, lastly, you arranged those symbol into a magic circle and there you have it, a new made spell.
Sona's mouth opened wide hearing what Rias said as she finished another spell from her exercises.
Sona: So how do you know if it works or not?
Rias: I test it directly of course...
Sona: Wait, don't summon a fire dragon here....
Rias: Of course I don't, here, let me show you how I test the spell.
Rias flips to the last page of her notebook, reveals a page portraits a grass field, Rias hold the spell in her hand and put it inside the page, and the result, a fire dragon attack is created, 200m range, 2s casting time, red color, asian dragon shape, 400°C, exactly like the one described in the exercise. Sona can't believe in her eyes what she just saw, her friend just completed a spell that would take years to make in just a few minutes and she could do it as she was talking. And she can even test the spell as she was making it. She was about to ask about the grass field page of Rias's notebook, Rias says
Rias: Abyssgard specialty, simulation technology.
Sona: Who....Who taught you all this??? Who gave you all these resources??
Rias just smiles and points at the man who is sitting beside her, teaching Akeno something, Tsubaki is watching him.
Arto: You might want to use this symbol to bend the flow, this would reduce the saw details, make the shape of the naginata smoother and prevent the details from hurting your beautiful hand~.*Akeno giggles*
Tsubaki: Can you two stop flirting? The naginata shouldn't be this short, the blade should be a little more curvy, here....
Tsubaki then takes a pen and draws a proper naginata for Arto and Akeno to see.
Tsubaki: This is how it should look, and Akeno, you are practicing using naginata, yes?
Akeno: Yes, Arto recommends me use a weapon for close quarter combat, since I am a Queen, I need to be more versatile, I can't just stand behind and shoot magic all the time, I need to have something to use to protect my King in dire situation where long-ranged battle won't work. And Arto said my physical strength is not as high as Rias so using a light weapon is the best choice, and we chose naginata for the job. But Arto doesn't have any experience with naginata so we are just trying to make one using my lightning, then I have to find a person to teach me how to use it.
Tsubaki: You know, I can give you naginata lessons, I have been using it for quite some time and I am confident I can help you.
Akeno: Really? When can we start these lessons? I am so angry at those monsters that get to me before I can use my magic all the time.
Tsubaki: How about this weekend? I'll have plenty of free time, so we can practice together.
Akeno: Then it's settled *Shake Tsubaki's hand*
Tsubaki: Now, back to the mana bending stuff, I am eager to know how you make weapons from pure mana.
Arto: Well, let's start from the beginning, okay? *Tsubaki nods* So.......
Lunchtime came after a bell rang. Everyone is now out having lunch, either from the canteen or a bentou. Akeno prepares bento for her peerage, which is so sweet of her. Now they are eating together before Sona asks Arto
Sona: Hey Arto....
Arto: Yes miss...
Sona: Call me Sona.
Arto: Yes, Sona?
Sona: Do you play chess?
Arto: I used to.
Sona: Would you play with me?
Arto: Sure, bring it on.
Arto and Sona set up a chess table and they start playing, Sona stretches a little while Arto's eyes get sharper as if he's getting serious for this game. And the game begins, Rias and Tsubaki are watching the game closely while Akeno hugs Arto's arm and takes a little nap on her man's shoulder, this makes all the boys in the class look at him with jealousy in their eyes. But Arto doesn't care, he focuses everything he has on this game. Slowly, Sona is driven back, advantages slowly taken from her hand and the man opposite her still remains neutral, focused.
Sona: You seem very focused on this game, Aruto, it's just a fun game, why so serious?
Arto: This is not a game to me, Sona, this is war, and we are the kings, fighting to win, there will be casualties, blood,......
Flashback
???: Commander.....
???: Your command....
???: The wall has fallen....
???: We can't hold it ......
???: Send us support.......
???: Commander........
???: Farewell.....
End of Flashback
Rias: Aruto, you alright? *Shaking him back and forth*
Arto: Thanks, Rias, but I'm okay.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a chess board playing itself)
Arto: Checkmate
The game ended when Sona was utterly destroyed by the Abyssgard.
Rias/Tsubaki: Oh my....
Akeno: *just woke up* Ara ara, guest my man wins not just a game but also a girl
His eyes are now normal as he reach her hand out to her for a handshake
Arto: Good game, Sona?
Arto can see her face is as red as a tomato, Arto tilts his head to the side in confusion.
Arto: Rias, why is Sona like this?
Rias smirkingly looks at Sona.
Rias: Who will be the one to tell him? You decide.
Sona turns her face to a side pouting.
Rias: Guess I'll do the honor.
She the whisper into Arto's ear
Rias: Sona promised she would marry anyone who beat her in a game of chess. And guess what you did, Arto?
Arto: *whisper* Why would you do that, Sona? Betting your fate, happiness in a game of chess like this. But it's just talk so I guess we can just let this slide, okay? We will not talk about this again.
Akeno: *whisper* You don't know, it's official, she used this promise to get her away from arranged marriages, and it's her way to test her future fiance, she wants a wise man as her husband, and YOU meet all the criteria.
Rias: *whisper* Indeed, you don't know how amazed she is when I told her that you taught me how to make spells in minutes, you made a sandbox for me to test my spells on just a page of paper. This chess game is just her test for your intelligence, and you prove you are a fitting choice for her by beating her.
Tsubaki: *whisper* Why don't you give her a chance? For her to get to know you, and for you to get to know her.
Arto: * whisper* I can understand Tsubaki, but you two? Are you supporting this?
Rias: *whisper* Of course, Sona is one of my best friends, I want her to be happy, to find a man suitable for her and to make her happy. After what Akeno and I have been through with you, I dare say, you are the one for her.
Akeno: *whisper* Besides, harem is quite common among devils, so it's okay to....
Arto: *whisper* Firstly, I am not a devil. Secondly, what is a harem?
Rias: *whisper* you are not a devil now, but soon you will be. About the harem stuff, I'll save it for another time. So what is your decision, Arto? Will you give Sona a chance?
Arto sighs and reaches his and out again to Sona for a handshake
Arto: Will you be okay with this?
Sona nervously takes his hand.
Sona: We'll see.
Rias: Then it's settled, Sona, don't fall for him too fast, okay?
Sona: Shut up!!
Then the bell rings, the afternoon lessons begin.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by notebook flipping itself)
At the end of the day, everyone has gone home, leaving Arto, Rias, Akeno, Sona and Tsubaki in the class, Akeno turns back to Arto and Rias, snaps Arto out of his study mode and asks
Akeno: Arto, who is doing the leader duty today?
Arto: I guess it's Rias today.
Akeno looks at Rias who is now very nervous.
Akeno: Ara ara~ Rias, what is the lesson from last time you were the leader?
Rias speaks in embarrassment.
Rias: I should do something too instead of just standing there and commanding.
Arto: And?
Rias: We don't have an army, we only have 3 people.
Arto then pats her head.
Arto: Good job, remember, okay?
Rias nods her head while blushing
Arto/Akeno: So cute.
Sona: What are you guys talking about?
Akeno: Since Rias is drown in embarrassment, I'll explain, we are setting formation for our training tonight
Sona: Why didn't you tell me you are doing peerage training tonight, Rias?
Akeno: No, no, not peerage training, just me, Arto, and Rias.
Tsubaki: So, how do you guys train?
Akeno: We venture into Aruto's dream and fight monsters there, we take turns being the leader everyday to train our leadership. Also, we learn from Arto while doing so. We can test our newly made spells, practice our fighting abilities, learn from the wise *Poke at Arto's cheek*, that's the way Rias and I have been using to gain muscles
Sona: So Aruto here has monsters in his head, they spawn every night and you guys are going to fight them to train yourself. How do you guys venture inside his dream? I wanna try too.
Akeno *whisper* We sleep with him.....
Sona's face heat up to the point steam started to come out of her head
Sona: You......you........sleep.......with........
Akeno: Yes, but just sleeping, nothing more, nothing less, that is the only way we know to venture into his dream. You wanna try? At this rate, we gotta get a new bigger bed, it's getting a bit cramped with 4 people on it.
Arto: Now that you're mentioning, I need to find a way to reflect my dream into reality, simulation to be exact, this training method has proven efficiency on Rias and you, so I want to expand the range of the training, I want to make it so that Koneko and Kiba will also be able to train this way as well, now that Sona and Tsubaki want to join too, I need to make a simulation room for you guys to train in there. You and Rias can still sleep with me and train in my dream if you want, but everyone gotta train as well, can't let you and Rias get ahead too much from other members.
Akeno hugs him.
Akeno: I'm glad I can still sleep with you, I can't sleep alone anymore now that you're here.
Arto pats head to reassure her
Arto: Don't worry, I will not go anywhere, but in the next few weeks, you'll have to sleep on your own for a few nights, because I need to complete the simulation room, the demands rising, I'll have to pull some all-nighters. I'm so sorry, my dear~*Kiss her forehead*
Akeno: I understand, my Darling~I already ordered a custom made body pillow with your image on it for these situations. I am your strong girl, I can survive those lonely nights without you! *buries her face in his chest*
As Arto and Akeno are cuddling, Sona nudges Rias and asks her.
Sona: Are they usually that lovey-dovey?
Rias: You don't know how attached they can get when they are alone together.
Tsubaki: How about you, Rias? How do you feel about him?
Rias: I like him too, it's just Akeno likes him more than me. That makes it seem like Arto and I are just friends, but he means more than that for me. It's only natural, Akeno has been with him for 6 years.
Tsubaki: They knew each other from before?
Rias: No, not that, Arto has just come to this town since a week ago. The thing I was saying is that Akeno had a 6 years journey in his dream, she ventured into his past, getting to know his younger self, going with him through his rough life, so she growed more attached to him than me, the person only listened to the story from Akeno, I am in no place to understand what he has been through. But don't get me wrong, I like him very much, but my feelings for him sometimes are overshadowed by that of Akeno. I am not sad though, I am happy in fact, Akeno has found someone she can depend on, someone she can trust, but I want a place beside him too.
Suddenly, a pair of hands embrace Rias from behind, she turns around to see, but another pair of arms hug her from the front, it's Arto and Akeno.
Rias: You two?
Arto and Akeno then kiss Rias on either of her cheeks, making her blush very hard.
Arto: You thought we couldn't hear you, my precious Princess?
Akeno: We are so sorry we left you out, we didn't mean to...
Arto: Maybe you weren't with me in my past, but you are the one that accepted me in this family, you gave me shelter, tasty food, warm bed, a complete stranger without knowing anything about me. You also the one who helped me make all this, simulations, spell making formulas, those book carts you brought back to me were treasure gold, without them, I am useless, you're the one that makes use of my dark arena to train yourself. So never underestimate yourself like that. Akeno may be the person that helps me with my past, but you, Rias Gremory, help me with my present.
Some tears run down Rias's cheek.
Rias: Thank you, you two, you two are the best, I have decided, I will not stand behind Akeno, anymore, I strive to stand beside you too, my precious Abyssgard.
Akeno: And that, Arto, is a harem.
Arto: Huh? Eh? Wait, you don't mean.........
Akeno: Yep, 1 man - many women, boom, harem. Now you have 2. 4 if counting those 2 who will soon join this little family.
Arto: Is it really ok? Rias? Will you be happy with this?
Rias: If it's you, my Arto, I don't mind, I don't mind at all.
Arto: But......
Akeno: You either accept us both or you get no one, make your choice, Darling~, I can't stand my best friend being unhappy.
Arto then let go of Rias.....and hugged both of his girls in his arms, cuddling deeply into Rias's hair.
Arto: Oh, you two, what choice do I have? I'll do it if it makes you two happy.
Sona: Can you three stop? There are still people here, you know.
Arto/Rias/Akeno: Right, Sorry....
Rias: Well, Sona, we gotta go now, we're having extra classes
Sona: I am curious about it, what are you studying?
Akeno: Magic, Arto is teaching us magic, you guys can attend too if you'd like
Sona/Tsubaki: We would love to.....
They then go together to the ORC club house for the extra lessons. Inside, Kiba and Koneko are already there, Kiba still has that genuine smile on his face, Koneko, she is panting, sweating very hard, seeing Arto, she tried to punch him but was not able to. Rias ran to her to check on her.
Rias: ARTO! WHAT WERE YOU THINKING? Why did you place that spell on her? You lift that right now!
Arto: Maybe I went overboard this time. Sorry Rias, Koneko.
Arto lifted the spell, Koneko suddenly stood up, launched at Arto with the speed of a bullet to jab him, only for him to swiftly dodge.
Arto: Look at you my little cat, faster than ever heh? Seems like my method worked.
He then evaded another strike from Koneko. She is still angry. But she has to admit his method did work, her speed has increased to a point she has never reached before, the only problem is that she hasn't been able to follow her own speed which needs some practices. After a few more failed attempts, she got back to her seat, and received a chocolate bar from Arto as an apology, she angrily accepted the gift and started eating them.
Sona and Tsubaki and everyone else take their seats, waiting for the lesson to start. After a few minutes, Arto pushed a black board in front of Rias's table. Everyone takes out their notes as the lesson begins.
Arto: Hello everybody, Welcome to my magic class. Today, we're having 2 new attendees, Sona and Tsubaki, so we need to revise a little what we were learning last time for our new attendees to catch up. Kiba, can you tell me how a spell works please?
Kiba: Certainly, a spell is a process where the caster pour mana into a magic circle, the symbols inside the circle will bend the mana flow into different shapes. After the mana are bent and shaped, the result is what we call a 'spell'.
Arto: Precisely, now we are going to have an example. Rias?
Rias: Yes?
Arto: Can you make a spell for us? Sona, Tsubaki, look closely, okay? *They both nod*
Rias: On it.
Arto then writes a desired result on the board as Rias moves to the board and takes a chalk.
Arto: Make sure to explain it clearly, so that Sona and Tsubaki can get to know the formulas and how things work, this is also a way to test your memories. Okay, do it, Rias.
Rias started to analyze the desired result for everyone to hear
Rias: So the desired result we are looking for is a 5m high, 20 cm thick, 200m long, round shape earth wall. We will use formula number 1 and 2 to convert the result into mana flows. After applying the formula, we have.....
Rias said as she drew mana flows on the black board. She write with such speed that it astonish Sona and Tsubaki, After a few seconds, the flows are completed, all Sona and Tsubaki can see are messy scribbles on the board
Rias: ........Then we apply formula 12, 26 and 33 which are.... *writing the formulas on the board*
Sona and Tsubaki were about to write something before Arto stopped them and gestured to them to look at the board. They complied and look back at the board
Rias:.....Using formula 12, we convert the foundation of the wall to symbols which are...... *Writing the symbols*
Rias:.....Next, formula 26 helps us convert the upper part of the wall's index into symbols *Writing symbols*........
Rias....Lastly, formula 33 can apply mana enhancing... *Writing symbols*........
After all the symbols have been written.
Rias: There we have it, all the symbols, now we just need to arrange them in the magic circle and we are done.
A few more seconds later, the spell is done.
Rias: And there we have it, a spell that helps us make an earth wall. Any questions?
Sona: So how does the amount of mana we pour into this spell affect its power?
Rias: The wall index will remain the same but its toughness will rise according to the amount of mana you pour into this spell.
Tsubaki: If I want to change it to 'the more mana, the higher the wall', how could I do that?
Arto: To do that, you treat the height of the wall as a variable that changes according to the mana amount instead of a static number like length, thickness, shape in our exercise here.....
Sona: How about the shape?
Arto: Shape is static, you can't change that with your mana, you have to set it in your desired result.
Tsubaki: Now how do we test it?
Akeno: Here...
She said as she point at a sandbox on the table
Rias:....I'll do it.
Rias then take the spell in her hand and put it inside the sandbox, the wall appears after a few moment
Arto: this box scale is 1:500, so feel free to measure.
Sona curiously took out a ruler and started measuring, it's surprisingly accurate. She looks at her teacher who is standing there with a smile.
Sona: How did you know all this?
Arto: I study, with high concentration, basic magic documents contain all sources of information, but the most important thing is the core of magic of this world. When you have the core, everything else motion around it, from the core, we can approach different aspects of magic........
Tsubaki: But will it be a long way ?
Arto: It is, that's why we have formulas, to make things easier. Lucky for me, the core of magic in my world and your world have many similarities, so it's easier to process, I just need to change the symbol and we are good to go.
Sona: So with these formulas.......
Arto: Yes, making spells will be easier than ever, normal spells take years to make because they use the old way, traditional way, move from the core outward to the result. But with these formulas, spells can be made in minutes. You saw the spell Rias made back there, yes? *They nod* She did exactly like what they normally do to make a spell, but with the help of my formulas, it got easier.
Sona: Extraordinary, you made all these formulas..........this could be a revolution, a breakthrough in magic.
Arto put his finger over Sona's lips
Arto: I have to stop you there, I didn't make these formulas, I did make some of them but not all of them, these formulas are the result of hundreds of thousand of scientists, working restlessly throughout millennials to make, I just convert them into what I and you guys can use in this world, I am just a carrier of their legacy, the Science and Magecraft Department of Abyssgard Legion. You guys are helping me keep these masterpieces alive, so use them with care and respect and make sure you understand how they work, okay?
Everyone: Yess.
Akeno: Wait, so the labs I saw under the castle you lived at......
Arto: It's a part of the Science and Magecraft Department.
Rias: Wow, so cool, I wish I could meet them.
Arto: Now, let us continue our lesson today.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Arto drawing magic circle)
Arto: Sona, Tsubaki.........
The two look at Arto, he then gives them a textbook and a notebook each
Arto: This is for studying, it contains all of the spell making formulas, and the details of how they work. You can attend my class if you want, or you can read them in your free time. Any question will be answered by me in the ORC or in class. And the notebook are the exercises for you to do, each of you have different exercises so don't ever think about copying. Now, That's everything for today, lesson, hope you guys have a great day.
Sona and Tsubaki bit the ORC farewell and head home, on their way home, Tsubaki said
Tsubaki: That Arto guy, he's very cool, isn't he? I never thought that I could make a spell, not to mention making them in minutes, but now.....*Look at the textbook*....it's possible.
She look to Sona to see her King is hugging the books tightly to her body, blushing and smiling
Sona: Yeah, he's so cool,...........and he'll be my husband......Huh?
Tsubaki just looks to the side, trying to contain her smile as they head home together.
Notes:
That's the end of Arto's first day at school, new relationships has been form. What do you think?
Chapter 7: The search
Summary:
Arto's journey to search for the location of the artifact that can reflect dream into reality
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
I slowly stir awake, I tiredly open my eyes and my senses are back to me. And the first thing I felt was soreness and pain. My body is sweaty and sticky due to last night's training. I tried to lift my body up but couldn't due to it being pinned down by something soft, smooth and.....sticky? I look to my sides to see what is pinning me down, and to no one's surprise, it's Rias's and Akeno's body that are keeping me in place. Rias is laying on my shoulder while Akeno is laying on my chest, they are both hugging me so it's impossible to get out of bed without waking them up, even teleportation.
And so I decided to give up, and let the girls enjoy their body pillow. To be honest, I don't dislike this, not at all, I can hear their gentle breathing sound, they are music to my ears, I can feel their smooth, soft skin due to both of the girls sleeping naked, I don't know why they do that but, this is like the morning that every man wishes to wake up to. But I have to wake up, it's my turn to make breakfast today, I don't want the girls to go to school with an empty belly.
Another thing, I need to start planning for the simulation room, I know how to make it but there are some requirements that need to be met.I need something that can help me reflect my dream into simulation and some materials to make the room, I asked Rias about this but she doesn't know if that thing exists or not. And while that artifact is being searched with Rias's family's help, I need to speed things up by looking for it myself. The test runs with Rias and Akeno proved that this is the best training I can get for them, the girls have gotten stronger significantly in the past few weeks,
Rias has gained some muscle from fighting monsters using bare hands, and she seems to like fighting this way a lot, combining with the high physical strength that she is born with and that destruction power of hers, her destruction coated punch is deadly. Not only that, her reflexes have also been improved which make it harder to catch her off guard, her leadership is getting better by the day: she can now adapt to simple shifts in the battle and act accordingly. All she needs to do now is practice close quarter combat using her fist, maybe I need to teach her some fighting techniques, and expand her destruction power coat to all of her body. She also introduced to me her new spell, a spell that stiffens her chest, which helps her avoid unnecessary pain while making holes on her enemies' faces. A lot of head pats and hugs were given that day. At this rate, the day she can solidify her destruction power into her own armor is not too far away.
Akeno has also gained some strength fighting magic immune monsters with her naginata. Her lessons with Tsubaki every weekend have done great jobs improving her techniques with the weapon, combining with her Knight trait help her lessons with Tsubaki become more efficient. Looking at her fighting is like looking at a dancer moving elegantly among monsters and sliding them into pieces. Her speed and reflexes have had great improvement, not as high as a Knight like Kiba but fast enough to leave a faint blur while moving. Magic side, her control over magic is really good so I just let it develop on its own. What I told her to do is vary her magic, learn to control more elements like water and air, I also gave her spell making exercises that focus on these elements. She has also learned to be a leader through leader duty days, she can confidently give orders, tactics and deal with sudden situations swiftly, can be better though. Well that's all I can say, my Akeno is just perfect that way.
As much as I like to stay like this the whole day, today we have lessons to attend to at school, and my arms is getting numb from being laid on by Rias and Akeno, I tap lightly on the girls, wake them up
Arto: Wakey wakey, Rias, Akeno....
Rias: No *snuggle deeper into Arto*
Akeno: 5 more minutes *Wrap his arm around her*
Arto: We have school today, you know, and it's my turn to make breakfast. So please wake up. I'll make your favorite.
Rias/Akeno: How intriguing.....
They then slowly rise up, freeing Arto. As the ladies slowly got up, I got the sight of his girls, the sun shining on their sweaty faces making them too beautiful to take my eyes off them. The girls then stretch their bodies, I can see clear muscles and abs while they do so, letting out some light moans out of pain from last night's training.
Rias: I can't believe all of those monsters are immune to magic.......
Akeno: But fighting them was fun, I got to practice those moves that Tsubaki taught me, she was the perfect teacher for me due to also being a Queen, she knows exactly what I need.
Rias:.....Lucky for you, the spells that Sona and I made together were not tested, we try so hard on those spells......
Akeno: It's okay Rias, You'll get to show him your training result next time.
Rias: Talking about 'him'?
Their eyes suddenly shifted to me, who was sneakily getting out of bed without their knowledge. They quickly push me back to the bed, pin me down by their hands on my chest. They then flex their gorgeous sweaty naked bodies for me before asking
Akeno: Like what you see, dear~? You made us look this way
Rias:Give us an honest answer or you're going nowhere.
It took me a lot of effort to stay calm and composed, to suppress my inner beast. After regain my cool, I touches their faces with my hands, making them blush before saying
Arto: I doubt you girls are goddesses instead of devils. Is that enough to show my admiration for your beauty, my sweet girlfriends?
They seem content with the answer and let me go so that I can go make breakfast while they get in the shower together. I come to the kitchen and cook simple Japanese traditional breakfast with white rice, grilled salmon, tamagoyaki and Akeno's special miso soup with tofu and seaweed. This simple smell was enough to cause Rias and Akeno to bolt down the stairs, with their still wet bodies, and dig in the meal with joy and satisfaction. After the meal, they actually kissed the chef, as written on my apron before getting back upstairs to fully dry their body and change into their uniform. I just lightly smile at the girls before changing into my own uniform.
(TImeskip: Brought to you by the bed with sweat mark of Arto, Rias and Akeno)
3rd POV
Arto, Rias and Akeno are now walking to school together, Rias is showing Arto her notebook while asking him questions while Akeno walks beside them, spinning her pen-sized naginata with her fingers. Arto then feels something threatening from behind them, like someone is looking at them, no, at him menacingly, the girls sense it too and look at him with worried faces.
Arto: There is nothing to worry about, girls. You needn't dirty your hands. I'll deal with it, you go to class first, I'll be right behind you.
Rias touches his face with a smile
Rias: Give them hell, tiger.
Akeno: Don't hesitate, I'll be watching your performance.
Rias and Akeno then walk to class, Arto is standing behind them. Knowing his girls will be watching, he twirls his finger in circles to cast a spell that broadcasts what's coming live for Rias and Akeno to see via magic circles.
The moment the ladies get inside the building, some shadows surround Arto, needn't to look around, Arto can easily count 6 people circling him. The biggest one out of them, 1,9m tall, taller than Arto who is 1,8m tall, bulky, blonde, sporty, tattoos, how in the heck he made it to this school, gets in front of Arto's face with a threatening voice, he asks
Big blonde: What is your problem with my girls Rias and Akeno huh you bastard?
Arto: It's nothing special, just helping them with their homework is all. What is your business with them huh, big blondie?
A voice from behind him raise
???: Don't you know big bro Takeshi Hamuda, the boss of this school, the dream of every girl in this school.....
Hamuda: Everyone in this school knows Rias and Akeno are my girlfriends, so you'd better stay away from my stuff or else...*raise his fist*...you'll know it, you big nerd.
Arto: Sorry about touching your stuff, I've only been in this school for a few weeks so I don't know the rules around here. But it seems I can't stay away from them, cause I sit next to Rias and behind Akeno in class so if you want to move me away, you'd talk to the teacher. Besides, I bet they never even look at your funny face, not to mention dating you, let me just call them to check... *Takes out his phone and call Rias*...Yes, Rias? I met your boyfriend down here...Uh huh... and he claims Akeno too.....uh huh....Yes....yes.... As I expected, your taste in man is not that horrible, I know....Okay, goodbye for now, see you in class *clicks* What? You don't have her numbers, so how do you send her goodnight? Pigeons? And you say you are her boyfriend.
Hamuda: You bastard! I teach you a lesson for touching my women.
He throws a punch at Arto, only for him to dodge and his fist flew to the one behind Arto, knocking him out immediately.
Arto: That's a pathetic punch, you don't even know how to throw a punch and you want to date the most beautiful girls here, are you daydreaming.
Hamuda: You'll pay for mocking me
He throw another punch, Arto dodges again and it knock out another one of his gang
Arto: Your footing is unstable, stand your ground firmly.
He unconsciously follows Arto's instruction and throws another punch, which again knocks out one of his members again even if he tries to dodge.
Arto: Straighten your elbow, you're showing mercy.
Hamuda follows again and try again, only for Arto to move behind one of his dudes, use him as a one-time shield, which work perfectly when he see blood spilling out of his nose.
Arto: Don't just use your arm, use your whole upper body as well, the momentum would knock your enemy out
Hamuda fixes according to Arto and makes another attempt, to knock out the last one of his crew.
Arto: Congrat! You have finally been able to throw a proper punch.
He is even more furious by now, he launched himself at Arto, tried to catch him but to no avail, punch after punch, but it got him nowhere.
Hamuda: Stop dodging and fight me like a man you coward
Arto hears some screams from behind him, he knows these sounds, the Perverted Trio are trying to escape after peeking at the kendo club's girls. An idea popped into his head.
Arto: You have practiced enough, Hamuda, now let me help you do something useful for the community.
He said as he jumped backward to the Perverted Trio direction with Hamuda chasing him closely. Arto stops right in front of the Trio, preventing them from seeing what's coming
Issei: Hey, get out of the way, don't you see we are in a hu.....
Issei was knocked out cold by an anger-filled punch from Hamuda, his two friends were astonished at the sight before receiving 2 more punches coming from Hamuda. The Trio are now on the ground, fainted.
Arto: Good job, you just did the kendo club a favor, prepare for your reward.
Hamuda: Huh?
Then the kendo club girls run at the two with kendos on their hand, when they saw what Hamuda did, the immediately went to him and a girl name Murayama said
Murayama: Thank you so much, senpai, for taking care of those perverts, they have been peeking at us for some time now, thank you so much for stopping them....
Hamuda: *Scratch his head, smiling* It's alright, they deserve as much.
Murayama: Thank you so much. Now if you excuse us, we'll take them back and deliver their judgment
Hamuda: Make sure they learn their lesson, alright? How about I help you girls?
Murayama: There is no need, you have helped us enough with stopping these 3, we can take it from here.
Hamuda: Alright, you're welcome.
He then turned his attention back to Arto only to see him disappear. Hamuda is now very confused about his attitude toward Arto, should he be mad at Arto? Or should he be thankful for him? He didn't know, and so he went back to class with questions still lingering in his mind.
Arto came into the classroom just when the bell rang, he went to his seat to see Rias and Akeno are giggling at something.
Arto: Whatcha watchin?
Rias: You gotta watch their faces when they get punched, as much pain as it looked, they totally deserved them, both his crew and the perverts.
Akeno: Yeah combined with the dumbfounded face of Hamuda when he just does everything you said like a dog makes it funnier.
Arto: I am glad you girls had your fun time, now how much of my exercises have you done?
Rias: I have completed it, here *hands him her notebook*
Akeno: I have done them all too, here you go *hands him her notebook*
Sona: I still have a few questions though, here *open her notebook*
Tsubaki: Me too, these last problems are kinda tricky.
Arto: Alrighty, then we'll solve it one by one, you girls don't need to turn back here, I'll broadcast it live for you girls to follow, now that the teacher is here. You can watch it via a magic circle like what Rias and Akeno did prior.
Girls: Right.
The teacher: Now, class, open your book to page 25.....
As the girls open the textbook, a magic circle appears in front of each of them, inside are the questions and problems Sona and Tsubaki had. And the subtitle started to run
Arto: 'Everyone's ready?'
After getting a thumb up from everyone
Arto: 'Then let us begin. About this question of Sona, using formula 35 would work, theoretically, but it's very inefficient, you can see it via casting time and mana consumption of the spell, so I recommend using formula 40 which is *formula 40*, this would reduce the casting time drastically and increase mana efficiency'
Sona: Why didn't I think about this? Thank you, Arto.
Arto: 'Next, we have Tsubaki's problem, which is *Problem* this one is hard if you approach this way, why don't change our point of view a little....*
Tsubaki: How? It's so much easier now...
And the lessons goes on, Arto helps the girls with their problems, gives them new exercises and lets them elaborate their ideas of new spells and help them optimize their ideas, not just the girls in his class, Kiba and Koneko are also watching and giving questions for Arto to solve.
The school day quickly ended, everyone all had an efficient day with all of the problems solved.
Sona: Hey Rias, about the spell we made, combine destruction power with water, the 'destruction tide', have you tested it?
Rias: I haven't, the monsters from last night were all immune to magic.
Sona: That's unfortunate, and Arto?
Arto: Yeah?
Sona: I want my peerage to attend your class too, so......
Arto: I'll be glad to help them, send me their contact infos, I'll talk to them directly about studying schedule and exercises, but you and Tsubaki need to help them catch up with everyone else, okay?
Sona: Will do. And if you need any help to make the simulation room, just tell me, the Sitri will help you with all our forces.
Arto: Great, I need to find something, an artifact that can reflect my dream into reality, can you help me find it.
Sona: I'll let my searching team know about this.
As their conversation goes on, Tsubaki approach Akeno
Tsubaki: How was your training, Akeno? Are there any problems you are having?
Akeno: It's going very well, my skills have gotten better by now, all thanks to you, Tsubaki.
Tsubaki: You're welcome, it's fair trade, I have gained so much from Arto, so it's only natural that I do something in return. Say, will you accompany me in the simulation room when it's completed?
Akeno: Anytime, Tsubaki-sensei, fufufu~.
Tsubaki: Don't say that, it feels weird.
She said as they hugged each other.
Arto: That's all for today, since we did lessons in class today, there will be no extra class, be free to spend your time this evening and remember to do your homework, it'll be the foundation for what to come, have a great night.
Everyone: Yes.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by by chibi Arto on his phone calling Sona's peerage)
Arto POV
That night, after a refreshing shower, as I was drying my hair, my phone vibrates, I come pick up the phone to see a strange number, I answer the phone to hear a deep voice
???: Hello, Mister Abyssgard.
Arto: Who are you? How did you know my number?
???: Do not worry, I am an agent from Gremory's searching team, Joseph. I called you to tell you some important information about the artifact you are looking for.
My ears perked up hearing this, I focus on what Joseph has to say
Arto: I am glad, the Gremory searching team are doing their best huh?
Joseph: We are, Lord and Lady Gremory have noticed your presence around their daughter, and they have also seen her improvement strength-wise, intelligence-wise, and mental-wise. She has also informed her parents that you're the cause of her and her peerage development, so they are using every source they can get to help you in this search.
Arto: I see, I'll make sure that this project will be a success, to show gratitude to Lord and Lady Gremory. Now, what do you have for me, Joseph? Where can I find the artifact?
Joseph: We haven't found the exact location of the artifact but there's one thing for certain, it exists, the device that can reflect dreams into reality, the 'Dream Mirror'.
Arto: That's good enough, what does it look like?
Joseph: It's a color prism, pyramid-shaped, made out of a rare crystal named dream quartz.
Arto: I see, that information was really useful. So this crystal can reflect dreams into reality?
Joseph: Yes, This crystal is clear, smooth, rarely scratched, and illuminates the brightest under the moon. This crystal is only visible at night, it will turn invisible in the morning.
Arto: Splendid, is there any more information that I should know about?
Joseph: There is, we don't know the location yet, but we know who might. It's a person called 'The Spy'. She is an information seller in the black market, if anyone knows where the 'Dream Mirror' is, she might be the one.
Arto: Where can I find 'The Spy'?
Joseph: She is usually at the library in a city near here, we can't approach her because the library is protected by a strong barrier.
Arto: Got it. Thank you so much for the information, send Lord and Lady Gremory my best regards.
Joseph: I'll send your regards, goodbye for now, Mr Arto Abyssgard.
He then hung up. The door of my room slowly open, reveals Rias in her nightgown
She slowly approaches me, gives me a hug, her head is now resting on my chest, I can feel her well-toned body pressed against mine. She reaches for my phone, presses buttons to check my calling history. When she sees a certain number, she smiles contently and speaks
Rias: Like what you receive today, Darling~?
I wrap my arms around her body, lift her up and spin around and fall onto the bed with Rias beneath me. I slowly reach down to her beautiful blushing face and kiss her on her forehead
Arto: You don't know how happy I am. The information about the 'dream mirror' is crucial in this project, I have had all the material I need, and you brought me the map to the last piece, you are the best, Rias, I can't thank you enough *Kiss her forehead again*
Rias: Well, my parents are very interested in you, you are a human yet your knowledge about the supernatural world is admirable, when I talk about your project to my parents, they seem really interested and they want to invest in you. This simulation room is not only going to be the training ground for us, but also a wonderful lab for all sources of experiments, so they want to help you with this.
Arto: Rias, did you tell your parents about the formulas?
Rias: I didn't, I have read your cautions in the book, I will not tell a soul, even my family about the formulas without your permission. The moment I know about these formulas, I know it's really dangerous in the wrong hands, so they will be our little secret~. And don't you worry, I've already told everyone, even Sona and her peerage, to not spill these secrets, so you can focus on your project and being with me.
Arto: You are the best. If there's anything I can do to pay you back for this, tell me, okay?
Rias: I know, now let's go to sleep, I am eager to test my new spells with those monsters, hopefully today they are not immune to magic.
Arto: Wait a minute, where is Akeno? I haven't seen her the whole night.
Rias: She has a lot of contracts today so she won't be home until later tonight..........You always talk about Akeno, Akeno this, Akeno that, am I not good enough for you? *sniff* Why do you even date me while having your perfect Akeno?
Her sulky face is way too cute for me to resist. I quickly position her on my lap, holding her close, putting my face near hers, but she turns her face away from me. I keep pressing my face closer to her as she tries to resist me, she is so cute when she is angry, now I get why Sona and Akeno like teasing Rias so much. After a while, Rias finally gave up and turned her blushing pouty face to me and started hitting me in my chest lightly.
Rias: Arto you big meanie, I have done so much for you and all......Hmph
I pressed my lips against hers, she is surprised about this but still keeps it that way. After a few seconds, we separated as I say
Arto: ......and all I want to say is, Thank you, Rias, thank you for taking me in, for giving me a home to comeback to, thank you for giving me a chance, give me all the resources I need to show my value, to be of use, thank you for always being by my side, taking care of me. I don't know what else to say to express my gratitude toward you Rias.
Rias was stunting at my action, she froze for some moment to process that information. Then 2 flows of tears started to run down her cheek as she replied.
Rias: I want to thank you as well, Arto, for coming into my life, for teaching me to be a better person, for showing me a way, for showing me my value. I want to be with you forever Arto, I love you, Arto Abyssgard, my Arto Abyssgard.
Arto: I love you too, Rias Gremory, my Rias Gremory.
We then share a kiss, a deep kiss on the lips, I slowly lie down pulling her with me while keeping our lips intact. I don't know how long the kiss lasted but we kept it that way until we fell asleep, holding each other close with both of our hands, never letting go.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Akeno peaking into Arto's room before going back to her room giggling)
The sun rays shining into my eyes wake me up from my slumber. Slowly open my eyes, the first thing I see is a beautiful color of red, combined with that fragrant rose smell and the tickle feeling on my arms make it even more comfy. I can feel her gentle breaths hitting my chest as she sleeps peacefully in my embrace. I quietly turn my head, try not to wake Rias up and look for Akeno, it seems like she didn't sleep here last night or she pulled an all-nighter doing contracts, whatever it is, I'll make a hearty breakfast for her and Rias, but now, the crimson princess here is my priority, I don't know she is that jealous when seeing me and Akeno together, how careless of me, not spreading the care equally between the ladies, well, this's my first time being in a relationship this way, but I'll fix it to make them happy, for I love them both, my precious Rias, my precious Akeno.
10 minutes later, my princess finally stirs awake, her beautiful eyes immediately meet mine, we just smile at each other before I hug her deeper into me.
Rias: How did I do?
Arto: You did excellent, you killed that stone troll with just a punch, something which I wish I could pull off. And that 'Destruction Tide' did its job flawlessly, the monsters came in the tide, we fought them with our own tide that wiped them clean. But you need to suppress your urge to kill more monsters, this could disrupt the formation of the team, causing other people to be in danger, this will be crucial when the whole peerage is training this in the simulation room. Remember Rias, you're a leader, you should be the one keeping everybody in check.
Rias: Right, thank you for your feedback, I'll do better next time
Arto: I know you will *kiss*, my princess.
Rias: *kiss* I love you, my favorite teacher.
Arto: I love you too. Well, look at the time, I need to make breakfast, go take a shower and maybe wake Akeno up, I 'm heading downstairs now.
After a quick peck on her lips, I run downstairs to make breakfast, I summon the cookbook of Lady Gremory and put it on the kitchen counter.
Arto: I need a hearty breakfast for my girls.....
3rd POV
Rias arrives at Akeno's room to wake her up, knocking on the door, Rias says
Rias: Akeno, wakey, wakey....
The door opens, reveals Akeno in her nightgown rubbing her eyes sleepily
Akeno: Good morning Rias.
Rias: Good morning Akeno, our man is making breakfast so let's take a shower together and not make him wait.
Akeno complies as the ladies head in the shower, taking off their nightgowns before turning on the water, and washing each other.
Rias: Arto's training did its trick, your body is even more beautiful with these muscle and abs, but it's still soft and squishy to an extent which make touching it still comfy
Akeno: Your body too, it's more well-toned thanks to our Arto, your arm is not so noodle anymore now that your fist hits like a truck.
Akeno then realizes something before she kisses Rias on the lips, Rias is surprised at this but still blends into their kiss. After some moments, Akeno let go of Rias and asked
Akeno: So you took his first kiss?
Rias: How did you know?
Akeno: I sensed his smell on your lips, and that kiss between is for me to have an indirect kiss from him.....
Akeno then get closer to Rias
Akeno: There's no need to worry, he is our man, no matter which one of us had that kiss, I am still happy. I'll get one for myself later.
Rias: I'm glad we don't need to fight and argue about this.
Akeno: C'mon, let's get this shower done, I can already smell the incredible aroma from downstairs.
Rias: Right.
After 10 minutes, the ladies are heading downstairs for breakfast after finishing their shower, drying and putting on some light perfume for their man who is making breakfast.
Akeno launches herself at Arto, hugging him tightly.
Akeno: Darling~, you don't know how much I miss you....
Arto: Why didn't you sleep in my room last night? It worried me, you know.
Akeno: I was too sleepy, as I was changing into my nightgown to head to your room, I fell asleep on my bed.
Arto: So that's how it is, don't worry, I have made a hearty breakfast for you to regain your energy.
Akeno: I love you, Darling~
Arto: I love you too, my Akeno.
Akeno: Arto? Will you give me a kiss?
Arto was taken off guard by her request, he turns back to her to feel a soft feeling on his lips, Akeno. He got blended into the kiss before Rias pull her Queen out and warns Arto about the pan which is burning.....But everything turn out fine as they enjoy their meal before Arto says to the girls
Arto: Today, I'll be absent from school, Rias, Akeno. I am heading to a city near here to find 'The spy', who has the information about the mirror. So you girls have to go to school on your own.
Rias: Don't worry Arto, we understand, I'll tell the teacher you were sick.
Akeno: Have a safe trip, Darling~ Make sure to be home by bedtime, I don't want to spend another night without you.
Arto: Thank you my Darlings, I love you girls so much, you know?
Akeno/Rias: We know, and we love you even more.
After heading out, he has a kiss with both of his girlfriends, he doesn't know how long he can live without the girls by his side, he just can't stand being alone.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto standing at the train station)
Arto POV
I am now on the train to a city called Akita, where 'The spy' might be. I sit on the train, surrounded by strangers, I nervously look around, I wish I had brought the girls with me, this is both lonely and scary at the same time. I take a book out of my bag and start reading, try my best to get into study mode to get me out of my insecure feeling.
After a short while in study mode, I have arrived at Akita city train station. I then proceed to buy the city map to locate the library I am searching for, Akita public library. According to the map, it's located near the center of the city. I follow the map to see a big building, a few blocks wide, 3 stories, painted with white on the outside, with many sculptures on its wall, the building is painted in brown with yellow light, creating a warm vibe inside the building. I am amazed at this building, the size, the vibe, the color, it makes me want to explore this place right now.
I got into the library without any kind of ticket or charge, which surprised me. The library is even bigger from the inside
I venture to the shelves of the library, suppressing my urge to study, because I am here for something else, 'The Spy'. Lucky for me, today is not so crowded because it's a working day, so there are only some students, elders and tourists inside this building. As I make my way throughout the library, no one seems to be 'The Spy', either she is not here, or she is good at hiding herself. As I speak to myself, I sensed something, I quickly turn to the entrance of the library to see
A woman in light brown dress, long black hair, an orange pair of glasses hangs on her hair and a mysterious vibe to her, like she knows something, no, she knows everything, that smart, sharp eyes hides a lot of things behind them. She must be 'The Spy', this is my chance to get the information about 'Dream Mirror'. I then try to approach her but she just constantly appears and disappears after the book shelves, I can't even sense her magical trace since she is completely hiding it. She perhaps knows that I am here, looking for her, but how, I encrypted every call of mine, even the one with Joseph.
No wonder she is 'The Spy', she knows information and uses it to her advantage. As I was thinking how to find her, I sensed something, some faint magical trace on a bookshelf, I turned around to see the magical trace and it's a........an ear? An ear that's skillfully disguised. So, this is how she gathers information, she can create eyes and ears when she wants and where she wants, combined with mastery concealment, she sees everything, knows everything. But why did this ear appear before me?......!?So she is trying to communicate with me? What can I say to her? What will make her interested? Hmmmmm, hmph!? Information, yes, it's information. I slowly approach the ear and whisper into it
Arto: I have information to trade.
Suddenly I can see her sitting on the table in front of me, reading a book, she turns to look at me and gestures to me to sit opposite to her, I comply and the negotiation begins
Arto: So you are 'The Spy'?
The woman: Joseph didn't tell you much about me, yet you still manage to find your way to me, you are a smart man, I am impressed, Mr Abyssgard.
Arto: Thank you for the compliment, I am also impressed in the way you hide yourself, it's hard to trace you down, if you didn't send that ear to me, I might be here the whole day.
The spy: That's what I do young man, the information I hold is crucial, hiding myself is a priority.
Arto: Back to the matter, I want the information about the location of the 'Dream Mirror', do you have it?
The spy: Of course I do, that's why I appeared before you here, you have something I want, it'll be a fair trade, I'll give you the location of the mirror, you give me what I want in return.
Arto: What do you want to know, my Lady?
The spy: What I want to know is your formulas, the formulas that make spell creation a piece of cake. I tried to read those books but you put a spell on it, making it impossible to read them without your permission. How clever of you~ Mr Abyssgard.
Arto: I'll have to decline that, those formulas are more important than the mirror, you'll have to lower the price. How about the simulation technology? I can offer you as much.
The spy: I don't need that, I'll know it eventually when the Gremory announces it.....
Arto: Gremory!? That's it!.. How about this, I'll give you the formulas, under one condition.
The spy: What is it?.
Arto: You join me, in my team.
The spy: Elaborate, Mr Abyssgard.
Arto: I know you are a information seller in the black market, that means you have no allies, everyone is your enemy, your customer today can come to kill you the next day, the only thing keeping you alive is the information network you have, yes?
The spy: Can't hide it from you, can I?
Arto: That is the reason why you focus on disguise magic, so that you can hide yourself from others. It's very strong, your network barrier. But........
I snap my finger as 'The Spy' widen her eyes
Arto:......It's not impossible to break through it.....
Her face expression went from relax to serious as she said
The spy: How?
Arto: You made your fatal mistake when you showed me that ear, I have gained my access to your network through it. Now, let us start another negotiation.....
The spy: What do you want? Mr Abyssgard
Arto: Still the same offer, you joining my team, you get those formulas and your network remains safe.
The spy: What if I decline?
Arto: Your network will be exposed, you will be in a life and death situation, and you won't get nothing from me, I have already got the location of the 'Dream Mirror' and you cannot approach my formulas. All in all, you lose, in every aspect.
The spy: What do I gain from joining your team?
Arto: There will be benefits for you when you join my team. So relax You know the Gremory clan, yes?
The spy: I do, one of the richest and one of the most powerful devil clans. And you have a good relationship, if not romantic relationship with Rias Gremory, the heiress of the clan. How will that benefit me?
Arto: There, you said it, my relationship with Rias Gremory will benefit you greatly. First, you will gain protection from the Gremory clan, you don't have to run and hide anymore if you join my team. But it'll come with a condition.
The spy: What is it? Selling my soul, turning into a devil,........
Arto: None of that, you joining me means you have become an ally to the Gremory clan, and allies don't......
The spy: ......Harm each other?
Arto: Yes, you have support and protection from the Gremory clan, in return, you help us with your information network, it's a fair trade, you get your safety, we get the information. You can continue what you are doing, and when things go south, Gremory forces will come to your aid and take you to safety immediately, I will personally make sure of that. What do you say?
I reach my hand out for her. After a while, she sigh and shake my hand
The spy: What choice do I have? Mr Abyssgard, you are holding my life in your hand. But if this turns out well, I owe you my life. May our alliance bring peace and joy for us both. And about those formulas?
Arto: You'll get your hands on those formulas when you join me. You can use these formulas to enhance your disguise, make it harder to detect you, but don't even think about getting past me with your new spells, I can solve them all. Your usage of them will be under my supervision, you cannot share it with anyone without my permission.
The spy: You don't have to worry about that now we are allies, I will not harm you cause you secure my life. And those formulas are safe with me. *Zips her mouth*
Arto: I am glad, may our alliance bring peace and joy for us both.
After the negotiation, we part ways at the entrance of the library, the sun is setting on Akita city, which is really beautiful
The spy: It's good to make a deal with you, Arto Abyssgard. I'll see you soon, my ally.
Arto: It's good to see you too, may we meet again in the near future, Nico Robin.
Her eyes widen hearing me saying her real name, but she just shrug it off.After bidding farewell to Robin, I take out my phone to call Rias
Rias: Yes, Arto, how is the search going? Have you seen 'The Spy'?
Arto: I did, and I have known the exact location of the 'Dream Mirror'
I can hear her voice full of joy hearing this
Rias: Congratulations, my love, do you want me to prepare a feast for this achievement?
Arto: Save the feast for when the simulation room is completed, there's another good news I want to tell you.
Rias: What is it?
Arto: I have made an alliance with 'The Spy', she will be a Gremory clan's ally from now on. Don't tell your parents directly, your call might be eavesdropped, inform Joseph about this and make sure it's a secret.
Rias: Rea.....rea.....really? You formed an alliance with 'The Spy'? This is like beyond good news, I can't believe you could pull this off, I love you so much, my sweet Arto.
Arto: I love you too, now it's time I gotta go, I am heading to the train station to go home, see you soon, my princess.
Rias: See you soon, my prince, I'll be ready to greet you home.
*Clicks* She is so cute, like a child sometimes, that's why I love her. Now, time to go home.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto sleeping on his train home)
Rias POV
I can't believe it, Arto just formed an alliance with 'The Spy', the most efficient information gatherer in the black market for my household. I must inform Joseph about this. I quickly get in my room, make all sources of spells that prevent info leaking, eavesdropping, many layers of sound barrier, and a secured internal magical line of Gremory clan, which is always used to transfer important information within the clan. After everything is done, I take a deep breath and call Joseph, captain of the Gremory clan's searching team, one of the closest retainers of my parents. After a few minutes, Joseph answers my call via a hologram, I'll have to ask him a question to make sure he is the real one.
Joseph: Yes, my princess, you called?
Rias: Joseph,*Question*?
Joseph: *Answer*
Rias: Good, now to our matter,
Joseph: Yes, princess, it's rare to see you call me in this secured magical line, this must be urgent, I am listening.
Rias: Joseph, listen carefully, Arto Abyssgard has found 'The Spy', got the information about the 'Dream mirror' and most importantly, he has formed an alliance with 'The Spy' for us.
Joseph's eyes widened hearing this.
Joseph: Is it true, my princess? This is too good to be true. How could he pull that off?
Rias: It's true, Arto told me about this earlier, you might want to verify this information with him later when he is home, but if this is true, 'The Spy' will be a very valuable ally to us, her safety must be one of our top priorities. Only inform my parents about this after everything is verified, got it?
Joseph: Yes, my princess.
As Joseph hung up. I stand up from my desk, look out the window and think about my man, Arto Abyssgard, how could he form an alliance with 'The Spy'? What surprises will he bring in the future? Taking him in is the best decision of my life. As I was deep in thought, I sensed him, Arto is home. I quickly run downstairs to see Akeno is hugging him tightly in an apron with NOTHING beneath.
Akeno: Welcome home, darling, you look so tired. Would you like dinner or a bath? Or may be......me~?
Rias: Stop it, Akeno, he's coming with me now.
I said as I pull him to my room, lock the door before asking him
Rias: Is it true? Did you truly form an alliance with 'The Spy'? Please answer me.
Arto: It's true, I talked to her, got to her weak point, and made an offer she can never resist.
Rias: This is still too good to be true, she might be lying, you must be careful.
Arto: There is no need for that, I have her life in my palm, she would never dare........
Then we heard the doorbell rang, Arto's ears perk up, like he sensed something
Arto: Could it be.....
He said as he run down stair, I am so confused by now
Rias: Arto, wait up, be what?
I ran downstairs as well to see Arto greeting a woman at the door, a tall beautiful woman with long black hair, big eyes and an energetic smile on her face.
3rd POV
Arto: Why are you here, Robin?
Robin: I thought I had formed an alliance with you? This is a territory governed by the Gremory clan, so being here is the best way to guarantee my safety.
She suddenly hugs Arto and whisper in his ears
Robin: Beside, you are one interesting man, I want to know you more~ fufufu~
Arto: *sigh* Of course, well let me introduce you to everybody.
Arto then lets her in, put on many security barriers, and introduce her to Rias and Akeno
Arto: Girls, this is Nico Robin, 'The Spy'
Rias: How can we know you are the real person?
Robin: You might want to ask Joseph, he is the only person alive that knows my face.
Rias: Please come with me.
Arto, Rias, and Robin went to Rias's room, put on another security layer before calling Joseph again. As he answer the call, his eyes was caught by Robin
Joseph: 'The Spy', in flesh and bone, so it's true, Arto has truly formed an alliance with you.
Robin: Long time no see, Joseph. Indeed, Arto guarantees me utmost protection by the Gremory clan in exchange for my information network, can you guys do that?
Joseph: Certainly, your safety will be one of our top priorities, there will be elite squads who will protect you 24/7.
Robin: Then how about we discuss other terms in our contract?
Joseph: Certainly, but let me call Lord and Lady Gremory to discuss this matter with you, since this is a serious matter....
Joseph then hung up, after a few minutes, there was another call, and 2 holograms appeared before Rias, Arto and Robin, it's Lord and Lady Gremory.
Lord Gremory: So you are that infamous 'The Spy', yes?
Robin: Indeed, my lord.
Lady Gremory: Then let us discuss other terms of our alliance.
And after 4 hours, every term of the contract is concluded
Lady Gremory: Now that we have reached our agreement, the alliance is formed, may we work well together.
Lord Gremory: Please sign here so that our alliance can officially be formed
Robin signs the contract, her sign is burned on the paper.
Lord/Lady Gremory: Congratulations, We are now allies.
Robin: Thank you, Lord and Lady Gremory for your generosity and hospitality, I wish this alliance between us would last long.
After everything is done, Arto goes to Robin
Arto: Welcome to the family, Robin
Rias: You can live here if you want, we have plenty of rooms for you, and if you need any books, just tell me.
Robin: Thank you for having me, Arto, Rias. You are so kind.
As they went downstairs, it's already 11 pm, but for some reasons they can still smell the fragrance of the food, like it's just been done a few minutes ago, then they saw Akeno, smiling at them gently.
Robin: How could the food still stay so fragrant after so long?
Akeno: That's the new spell I made, which help preserve the food's condition after a long time, when I saw you guys head up stair, I know that is my chance to test it and it turned out wonderful, the food is still hot and fragrant, let us dig in everybody, to greet our new member.
Hearing this, Robin looks at Arto
Arto: Yep, those formulas help her do so, you'll get your hands on them sooner or later.
Then Arto goes to hug Akeno, congratulates her for her creation, Akeno just melts into his embrace with a content smile on her face
Akeno: I know I am your smart girl~
Rias: Let's not waste any more time and enjoy our dinner, I'm starving.
They then had a delicious hearty meal before heading to bed, Rias had secured a room for Robin to stay, similar to Arto's room. After setting up her belongings in her new home, Robin goes to take a shower. As she was drying her hair and walking to her room, she could hear commotion in Arto's room, Rias and Akeno were arguing about who gets the first goodnight kiss, Robin just lightly smiles at the cute bantering of the girls before returning to her room. She then flops on the bed with a content smile on her face, now that she has found a family that will protect her, a place to contribute with all of her abilities, all because of him, Arto Abyssgard.
Robin: You are one interesting man, Arto Abyssgard.
She said as she was slowly driven into her slumber.
Notes:
The 'Dream Mirror' is now located, Robin has now joined the crew, our MC's journey to fetch the mirror will be in the next chapter so stay tuned.
Chapter 8: The weekend
Summary:
A chilling chapter
Notes:
Once in a while, I'll make a chapter like this to relax a little before going into the story again, I hope you enjoy it
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
*Ring ring ring*
Arto: Urghh...What time is it?
I slowly reach my hand out for the alarm clock, it's 5 a.m. Oh, right, today I have a schedule with the cooking club. My classmate Misaki sent me a message telling me that today we are cooking for the orphans, we'll meet at the cooking club to make plans for the meals today, lunch and dinner for the kids at the orphanage in town. We are going to think of what to cook, buy ingredients and process them.
But the first problem is to get out of bed, Rias and Akeno are clinging to me very hard, so I teleport out and quickly put Rias and Akeno close to each other so that they will unconsciously hug each other and keep sleeping. I sigh in relief and head to the bathroom to clean myself after leaving a piece of paper for the girls.
After everything is done, I put on a hoodie and jog my way to school. I run to the cooking club to see the light is on, it seems like everyone is here. And I was right, everyone is here, I am the latest to arrive. My classmate Misaki is standing in front of a board writing something.
Arto: Sorry I am late, how is everything going? Have you decided what to cook for the kids?
Misaki: You are just in time, Aruto. We are still deciding what to make, what do you think?
I look at the blank board, close my eyes and think, what kind of food does an orphan want? Then I look at Misaki and ask
Arto: The kids usually eat rice, yes?
Misaki: Yes, they eat rice like everyday.
Arto: So, let's change things up a little, we are going to feed the kids something that is not rice and I have just the thing......
I then proceed to write to the board my suggestion
Arto: According to the weather forecast, today will be a hot day with the temperature at about 30 degrees Celsius, so feeding the kid with something cool would be our best choice, and I recommend cold Udon.
Misaki: It's indeed a great choice for hot days, easy to make, I think this is it, what do you guys think?
Everyone: Agreed.
Misaki: Great job, Arto, about dinner, I recommend we make ramen. Last time I talked to the director of the orphanage, she said that the kid would love to eat it.
Arto: Then there is nothing to argue anymore, ramen it is, but we need to move fast because ramen broth needs time to develop its flavor. How many children do we have to feed again?
Misaki: Exactly 50 children. Their ages vary from 4 to 12.
Arto: Got it, let's write down the ingredients we need to make our dishes. Starting with the noodle, do you guys want to make the noodle from scratch or buy it from the store?
Misaki: Of course we gotta make them from scratch, it's better that way. And we have 2 members that specialize in noodle making, since they have been learning from their family, Fusaku and Chihiro.
Fusaku: I'll take care of the udon, I have plenty of ingredients at home and my parents wholeheartedly support this, so the udon will be done in no time.
Chihiro: Then I'll take care of the ramen. Same as Fusaku, my parents will also support us today.
Arto: Then it's settled, next, we have dipping sauce for the cold udon and its side dish....
Misaki then pats on a nervous boy's back, makes him shudder
Misaki: Hiro here makes the best tempura, he is quite unconfident, but when he puts his back into something, it turns out delicious.
Hiro: It....it....it's not that good...
Misaki: C'mon everybody here was amazed by that tempura, it was so crispy but not too greasy. His dipping sauce is so good as well.
Arto: Well, with cases like this, you should give him some private space, he will work well when no one is around to look at him.
Misaki: Really, Hiro?
Hiro: Ye...ah, I tend to get nervous when people look at me while I cook, but I...I'll do my best for t....those children, leave the tempura a...and udon dipping sauce to me.
Arto: That's the spirit, if you encounter any problem, remember to call us immediately, will you be able to get things done by lunchtime?
Hiro: Po..positive...
Arto: Done, now to the broth of the ramen, I'll handle them, I know a place where we can get the best pork for the dish, I'll also buy the vegetables and other ingredients for you guys to process.
Misaki: I'll accompany you, this will need a lot of labor.
Arto: Thank you, Misaki......WAIT, almost forgot, we need a dessert for the kids as well.
Misaki: Why didn't I think about this? Any suggestions? Ah, Toshiro?
Toshiro: We could make some ice cream for the kid after lunch, this is strawberry season so it's very cheap and the kids would love strawberry ice cream.
Misaki: Splendid, then comes dessert for dinner? Yes, Kira?
Kira: I'll make some fluffy cheesecake for the kids, I have learned this recipe from my mom and I bet the kid will love them.
Misaki: But making this much would require a big fridge and oven, where can we find.....
Suddenly a boy raises his hand
Misaki: Yes, yes, that's it! Jinshi's parents own a bakery, yes? Can we use your fridge and oven for today?
Jinshi: Absolutely, I'll even ask the bakery's employees to support us with the dessert.
Arto: Right, now everyone has had your mission, let's proceed with our plan. It's 6 a.m, Misaki and I will go to buy ingredients. I'll make sure to be back at 7 so that everything will be set into motion. You guys go prepare your tools, we'll be back in no time.
Everyone: RIGHT.
Rias POV
*Ring ring ring*
Rias: Urghh...What time is it?
I slowly reach my hand out for the alarm clock, it's 5:30 a.m. Oh, right, today I have a schedule with Sona at the gym. We are going to train our muscles together and Sona said she is getting tired of her noodle arms and she wishes to gain some muscles like back, legs and butt. We'll meet her at the gym in town.
The problem now is to get out of bed, Akeno is clinging to me very hard, maybe she thinks I am Arto, wait a minute, where is Arto? Where did he go? I remember I was hugging him last night. Then I saw a piece of paper sticks to the bed, says
'Come and see me at the orphanage.
I am cooking for the children there.
Arto'
Oh, right, he has a schedule with the cooking club today, might head to the orphanage when I am done training, maybe take Sona with me, the kids there are very cute, playing with them might be a good way to relax and distract me from those paperwork. I then teleport out of Akeno embrace, quickly put the body pillow with Arto's image on it in my place for Akeno to hug. I sigh in relief and head to the bathroom to clean myself.
After everything is done, I put on my gym clothes and jog my way to the gym
As I arrived at the gym, I saw Sona at the entrance of the gym, wearing her gym clothes consisting of, white T-shirt, dark blue trousers, black trainers, and she was on her phone, blushing. So I quietly sneak behind her to see that she is looking at Arto's image when he's in his white blouse, so Sona fell for him hmm? This'll be fun.
Rias: Whatcha watching?
Sona: Ahhhhhhhhhhh............
Sona freaks out hearing my hearing voice from behind her, she quickly hides her phone, but she couldn't hide her blush. Time for some payback for making fun of me.
Rias: How did you manage to get that image? I didn't see you touch your phone once while Arto was teaching. Did you make a spell that can take images via your eyes?
Sona shuddered hearing this, looks like I have touched her weak point.
Sona: I.....I don't know what you are talking about.
Rias: C'mon, I know you didn't write any notes that day, you even begged me for my notes that night. So now I know why, you were staring at Arto the whole lesson, and before you know it, the lesson has ended.
Sona is blushing like crazy by now.
Sona: I....I.....I....didn't.....stare....at him.
Rias: We'll see about that, gimme
I took her phone from her back while she was distracted, I used my body to cover the phone as I looked into her phone's gallery as she tried to take her phone back with all her might.
Rias: I can't believe how much image of Arto you have in here, let's see: Arto in school uniform, Arto in gym clothes, Arto in tuxedo, Arto in blouse,.............EH!? What is this? Naked Arto in the school changing room? How many? How did you manage to get this much?
Sona's face is now as red as a tomato, I can see some tears running down her cheek, maybe I have gone too far. I turn myself back as she gets her phone back and puts it away, she then turns her red face to me.
Sona: Please......Please, don't tell Arto about this, I don't want to lose my image in his eyes.....*sniff* What would he think of me if he knew I stalked him.
Seems like the joke got a little bit far, lucky for me, there is no one around, or else I might be accused of bullying Sona. I slowly approach her, to calm her down
Rias: It's okay, your secret will be safe with me. But it will not do if you keep bottling your feelings like this, you've got to confess to him.
Sona: I know, I just haven't found the time yet.
Rias: You'll find your chance eventually, now let us train our body to be stronger, I have just the right exercises for you to enhance your muscles.
Sona: Will Arto like me more if I have a body like you and Akeno?
Rias: Nope, to be honest, Arto only looked at my chest once throughout our time together, and that one was I ordered him to, he doesn't care about your body, Sona, he only cares about you, your personality and your way of treating people. So just be yourself and you will be fine.
Sona: Thank you, Rias.
Rias: You're welcome, now let us have a good workout. Say, will you come with me to the orphanage after we're done?
Sona: Sure, but why?
Rias: Firstly, Arto is cooking for the kids there. Secondly, playing with the kids will help us relax and get our head out of those paperworks. They are so very cute, you'd love them.
Sona: Well, let's work out to the fullest, I can't wait to taste Arto's food.
Rias: Yeah.
I said as we headed into the gym.
Akeno POV
*Ring ring ring*
Akeno: Urghh...What time is it?
I slowly reach my hand out for the alarm clock, it's 6 a.m. Oh, right, today I have a schedule with Tsubaki at the dojo. We are going to train our naginata skills together and Tsubaki said she is teaching me new moves today and she wishes to ask me a few questions about Arto's exercises. We'll meet at the dojo near Tsubaki's house.
I slowly get up from my bed, Arto and Rias are gone, where are they now I wonder? Ohh, right, Arto has a schedule with cooking club today, and Rias is hitting the gym with Sona. As I was stretching my body, I saw a piece of paper Arto left for me and Rias.
'Come and see me at the orphanage.
I am cooking for the children there.
Arto'
How sweet of him, my Arto. Now let's get ready to go to the dojo. After that, I get to taste his delicious dishes and play with the kids in the orphanage. They are so adorable, especially the little boys, teasing them is the best. With that in mind, I get into the bathroom to wash myself. After everything is done, I head to the dojo on foot.
I finally arrived at the dojo. Today is Sunday so there's no one here beside me and Tsubaki, so I head into the dojo. This place is clean, fragrant with the smell of new wood, it gives me a peaceful feeling, just like back then.......
That's the reason why I like being here, I usually come here with Tsubaki, mostly on the weekend or whenever we are free. Besides training, we usually talk about everything like: exercises, contracts, clients, strays.........We have gotten closer since then, turns out Tsubaki is also from a prestigious clan that purifies evil spirits, just like my clan. Not only naginata, we share our ways of purifying spirits, and perform rituals for each other sometimes.
As I got myself into the dojo, I saw Tsubaki is already there, in her training outfit, holding her naginata
Tsubaki: You've arrived, Akeno.
Akeno: Sorry, I'm late Tsubaki-sensei.
Tsubaki: How many times do I have to tell you to stop calling me that?
The serious atmosphere was broken in no time as we laughed with each other. I summon my lightning naginata.
Akeno: Where should we begin, Tsubaki?
Tsubaki: A little sparring match would do, I need to see if you still remember what I taught you last time.
She said as she got into her battle stance, I quickly prepared myself as well.
Akeno: Bring it on.
We then launch at each other as our naginatas clash. The fight begins....
Robin POV
It's been almost a week since I've been here. The town is peaceful, everyone is friendly and wholesome, which gives me a warm feeling. I have found a safe place for myself, to live a happy life, without running and hiding. All thanks to him, Arto Abyssgard, that man is full of surprises for sure, I want to know more about him. And what is the better way than getting into his room and inspecting his stuff.
With that idea in mind, I walk to his room to see that it is wide open. I invited myself in to see that there was no one there, it looked like he left early this morning. His room looks identical to mine but this room has more smells than mine, mostly women's smell since Rias and Akeno sleep here every night. If those 2 are okay with that kind of relationship, who am I to judge?
As I was inspecting his bed, I see a small piece of paper Arto left, it says
'Come and see me at the orphanage.
I am cooking for the children there.
Arto'
How sweet of him, taking good care of the poor orphans. I think I'll head there by noon, hopefully there will be enough food for me because I know how delicious his food is.
After the bed, I head to his desk to see a lot of books and notes, mostly about magic. I look through the notes to see that this is what he'll use to make the simulation room: design, placement, materials, calculation,.... He is being the scientist, designer, and constructor at the same time, how weird, he could have called for help.
I save the best thing for last, his book shelves, full of notebooks of all kinds of subjects: Magic, science, history, mathematics,.....cooking? Well, let's start with my favorite: history.
As I take out one of his notes to read, I sensed someone's presence, I turn to the door to see Koneko is sleepily standing at the door
Koneko: Good morning Robin, where is Arto? I need to talk to him.
Robin: He headed out to the orphanage, he's cooking for the kids there today, you can stay here and come with me by noon.
I said as I pat my laps, after a while of hesitation, Koneko laid her head on my lap and fell asleep. I gently pet her head which earned some light purrs from her while reading Arto's notes. She is like a cute white little cat, no wonder Arto spoils her so much.
Robin:.....How interesting......
Arto POV
Misaki and I are at the market, we have bought all of the ingredients, what is left is the pork.
Misaki: Aruto, you said you knew a place with the best pork, where are we heading to?
Arto: Just you wait....
I take out my phone and call Robin
Arto: Robin, where can I get the best pork bone and belly in this town?
Robin: Arto, are you seriously using my information network for this?
Arto: Can't I?
Robin: Eh, same. I would do that too if I were in your place. Here is the direction.
Arto: Thank you so much, Robin. *clicks* Follow me, I know where it is now.
We then head to a meat store. After heading in, the owner greeted us with a smile.
Owner: Welcome, what do you need, dear customers?
Arto: I need 5 pork bellies and 25 pounds of pork bones, do you have them boss?
Owner: I do, but it's a big quantity, are you guys starting a restaurant?
Misaki: No, today we are cooking for the kids at the orphanage, about 50 kids and the orphanage's employees and our friends.
Owner: That's very sweet you two, you guys are doing a great job feeding the kids. You know what? I'll support you guys with this, I'll give you the pork bones for free, and some discount for the pork bellies? What do you say?
Arto: You are a wonderful man, owner, but we can't take that much, how about I'll receive the bones for free, but I'll pay full price for the pork bellies. I can't disturb your business like that.
Owner: I have children too, and I would love to see them get a happy meal, so that much is nothing to me, I insist you take my offer. I love those kids and I want them to have a hearty, delicious meal.
Arto: If you say so, owner. How long will it take?
Owner: 10 minutes, just sit there and wait, it will be done in no time.
We then proceed to sit at the seats in the store while waiting for the owner.
Misaki: Aruto? What makes you enjoy cooking?
Arto: Feeding those I love, seeing their content face after eating my dishes make me feel warm and happy, that's why I search for all sources of recipes to cook for them, my family.
Misaki: You sure have a wonderful family huh?
Arto: Yeah, they took me in, treated me with care, love and compassion. They gave me a chance to study, to do what I like, to show my value.
Misaki: I'm sorry, I didn't know you were also an orphanage, no wonder you care about those kids so much.
Arto: I want them to be happy, find a family that will happily take them in and treat them like I was. Those kids deserve better.
Misaki: Yeah....
Owner: Done and done, guys.
Arto: Thank you, owner. Here *gives his card*
Owner: Thank you, young man. Make sure you give those kids the best dishes. If you need any support, don't hesitate to call me.
Misaki: You are so sweet, owner. We'll keep that in mind.
Arto: Goodbye, see you later, owner.
We then head out of the shop. Misaki turned to me
Misaki: All this pork is all fresh and delicious, I'll pin this shop for the next time I want to buy pork.
Arto: Now everything is here, let's head back and get this thing started.
Misaki: YEAH!!
Rias POV
Sona and I have been training for a while, Sona is sweating profusely while I'm fine thanks to Arto's training.
Sona: How could you train for so long?
Rias: It's because of Arto's training for me, I fought monsters in Arto's dream for 7-8 hours a night, so this is nothing compare to those fierce battle
I hand her water, she quickly jug down a lot of water
Sona: That was refreshing, what's next?
Rias: Hmm, it's squat, have you ever done that before?
Sona: No, I have never.
Rias: Don't fret, I'll guide you, come here.
We then head to a mirror do practice the squats
Rias: We'll do it without weight first.
Sona: Right.
Rias: Firstly, Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and toes slightly pointed out. *Sona follows* Good, next, engage your core muscles and keep your back straight. *Sona straighten her back* Then, Sit down into a squat position, keeping your heels and toes on the ground, chest up, and shoulders back.....Make sure to strive to eventually reach parallel, meaning knees are bent to a 90-degree angle, keep it there........Okay, now, press into your heels, engage your glutes, and straighten your legs to lift back to a standing position. Did you get the hang of it?
Sona: Yeah, it's kinda painful.
Rias: C'mon, finish the set then we can add the weight to it.
I said as I did the set with her. As we were doing, I could sense someone was eyeing us from behind. I look at the mirror to see 4 bulky men, look at our behind with lustful eyes, I can see one of them is drooling. I can even read what they are saying through their mouth shape
Bulky man 1: 'Those are some juicy ass'
Bulky man 2: 'Can't wait to get my hand on them'
Bulky man 3: 'You guys get the red-haired chick, I'll deal with the black-haired one'
Disgusting! I quickly grab Sona who is squatting with her eyes closed.
Rias: Let's get out of here, there are perverts eyeing us.
Sona: Where? *I point into the mirror* Ohh, those pigs....
We quickly proceeded to leave before those men cornered us.
Bulky man 1: Hey there beautiful, I see you are training hard there.
Bulky man 2: How about we help you with your training?
Bulky man 3: You girls will need some support with those "weights"
Bulky man 4: Yeah, we can hold them for you if you want
Lucky for you Arto is not here, or else even I can't stop him from ripping your head off
Rias: Sorry gentlemen, we appreciate your kindness, but.....
Sona: ....We're having an appointment, so we must decline your offer.
But those men didn't let us leave
Bulky man 1: C'mon don't be like that, it'll be fun, so fun that you might even forget about that boring appointment of yours......
He then tries to touch my body while the others are approaching Sona. I sigh, so using brute force is the only option now. Sona and I nod to each other before we twist their wrists, preventing their hands from touching us.
Rias: Don't you dare touch us, you dirty pigs
Sona: While there's not many people, I suggest you step back, before people bring you to the police.
We then push them back, but they doesn't seem to give up, they launched at us, try to rape us, but Sona and I just beat them into a bloody pulp and leave.
Rias: Well, our work out is ruined, those bastards never know their limits.
Sona: Let's not worry about it for now, let's head home and take a shower, we can head to the orphanage afterwards.
Rias: Good idea. Want to join me in the shower?
Sona: Whatever.
We then head to my clubhouse to take a shower together.
As we headed home, I saw Tsubaki and Akeno were also heading home, with soot all over their body.It seems they had an eventful training too.
Sona: Looks like we all need a shower.
Rias: Let's head to the public bath house, my bathroom doesn't seem to be enough for us 4.
Akeno: Indeed, I desperately need a shower so that I can come to Arto's side and help him with the meal for the orphans
Sona: So you are heading to the orphanage too?
Akeno: Indeed, and Tsubaki is heading there too, we are going to have a feast there. Moreover, those delicious dishes will be made by Arto, fufufufu~
Rias: Yeah, we need to be there, playing with the kids so that Arto and the cooking club can focus on the meal.
Tsubaki: I heard that they are making both lunch and dinner for the orphans.
Sona: I have been craving to taste his food. Is it really delicious or is it because you 2 are in love with him?
Rias: Oh, you'll see.......Now, let's get ourselves clean before heading to the orphanage.
Everyone: Right.
Suddenly, a voice is heard out of nowhere
Robin POV
I can hear the girls plan to head to the bathhouse, I am thinking of going there with them. I need to get myself clean too since I didn't take a shower this morning, and this cat on my lap needs a shower too. I lightly shake Koneko wake up
Robin: It's noon little kitty, wake up now, we need to take a shower before heading to the orphanage.
Koneko: Nghhhh......5 more minutes.
Robin: Fine, I'll take you there Koneko
I then stand up, hug her in front of me and teleport to the ear near where Rias's group is standing.
Robin: May I join you girls?
3rd POV
Rias's group freak out hearing Robin's voice
Rias: Can you stop doing that? I might die from a heart attack because of that.
Robin: My apologies, but may I and this cat here join you girls in the bath?
Akeno: Of course, I have always wanted to witness your body up close~
Robin: I too want to have a look at your bodies as well~.
Tsubaki: So I hang out with a group of perverts.........
Sona: How can Arto deal with these perverts..........
The 6 head to the public bathhouse, book a room for themselves and start bathing. Out of nowhere, Akeno hugs Robin from behind
Akeno: Wow, you have such a wonderful body, *sniff* fragrant as well. *squish* Satan, these breasts of yours are so comfy to touch, can I sleep with you tonight, Robin~?
Robin: Feel free to do so, I would love to have someone to sleep with. But I thought you slept with Arto?
Akeno: He can survive a night without me. Besides, he has Rias to sleep with, so we can do all sorts of stuff in bed together. fufufufu~
Robin: It does sound interesting, deal. I want to hear more stories about Arto, you know some, yeah?
Akeno: Oh I know plenty, you'd love to hear his stories.
As Akeno and Robin are being flirty with each other, Rias is washing Koneko's hair, who is still sleepy
Rias: I can't believe they want to get to know each other this way. But I'll have Arto all for myself tonight so I'll let this slide.
Koneko: President, be gentle.
Rias: Sorry Koneko.
As for Sona and Tsubaki, they washing each other's body
Sona: How was your training with Akeno?
Tsubaki: Everything went well, she learns very fast. Not only that, we have many things in common, especially when it comes to purifying evil spirits, she has many interesting rituals and spells to her. We talked a lot about that. What about you, Sona? How was your workout with Rias?
Sona: Everything was going well until some sick perverts ruined it all.
Tsubaki: Do you need me to protect you next time?
Sona: No need, I could deal with them on my own. You can focus on training with Akeno, you seem to have lots of fun with her.
Tsubaki: I indeed do, I have never talked that much to anyone beside you, Sona. We are close friends now.
Sona: I'm glad.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by 6 ladies walking and talking happily)
After a while, everyone is done with their bath, they are now heading to the orphanage, where Arto and the cooking club are making a feast for everyone.
As the group arrived at their destination, the thing that caught their attention was the atmosphere, the warm, happy vibe was all over the orphanage, everyone run in and out, carrying stuff for the feast.
???: Move out, move out....
They turn back to see a boy, Fusaku, carrying trays of udon
Akeno: Sorry, please come in
Fusaku then heads inside the orphanage.
Fusaku: Udon are here!
Misaki runs to Fusaku
Misaki: Thank goodness, you are on time, what happened?
Fusaku: We suffered from flour shortage, took some time to refill everything, how is the sauce and tempura going?
Misaki: Hiro is finishing the sauce, bring this into the kitchen.
Fusaku: On it.
He then brings the noodle inside the kitchen to see Hiro is focusing on the sauce. Fusaku knows that he shouldn't disturb Hiro so he went out of the kitchen
The ladies then head inside the orphanage to smell the wonderful smell of soy sauce, tempura.
Sona: So they are making cold Udon for lunch.
Robin: Wonderful choice for a hot day, I wonder whose idea is this.
Another smell his their nose, strawberry and milk, they turn to see a boy, Toshiro carrying heat preserving box, where the smell come from
Rias: What are you carrying, Toshiro?
Toshiro: Dessert, strawberry ice cream. Where should I put this Misaki?
Misaki: Put it in the fridge in the kitchen, remember, do not disturb Hiro, got it?
Toshiro: Got it.
Koneko: Strawberry ice cream......*drooling*
Tsubaki: Save it for after the meal
Then the director goes to greet them
Director: Rias, Akeno, Koneko, good morning, I see you brought some friends
Rias: I did, this is Sona, Tsubaki, and Robin, is there anything we can help you with?
Director: You can help us keep the kids down, they are being extra energetic today, knowing lunch will be cold udon and dessert will be ice cream. The Aruto boy did his best but it seems like he is struggling.
Akeno: Maybe we should give him a hand. Those kids would love to see beautiful sisters coming to play with them.
Arto: Please, stop pulling my hair.....
Rias: Seems like he's struggling, Arto, I am coming.
Rias's group quickly head inside to see Arto is struggling with the kids, some are riding his neck, holding his arms, hands, legs. But as the kids saw Rias and her companions, they let go of Arto and run to Rias, leaving Arto shaking on the floor
Kids: Big sis Rias, big sis Akeno, big sis Koneko..........
Rias: Hello everyone, we brought some friends to play with you today.
Kids: Yayyyyy
Then the ladies split up to take care of a number of kids. Robin kneels down to welcome the kids into her embrace.
Robin: Hello kids, you can call me Aunt Robin, now who likes to play.
Kids jump straight into her arms..
Kids: Aunt Robin, pretty, fragrant.....
Robin: These kids are so cute, maybe I'll have to visit you every week.
Sona try to approach some kids but they tend to avoid her for her face being to scary
Rias: Put on a smile, Sona, you are scaring the kid, look at Tsubaki.
Sona turns to look at to see Tsuabki is playing with some kids smiling lightly, Sona awkwardly put on a smile but it make the kids laugh but still run away from her, she seems to enjoy chasing the kids around with her weird smile.
Akeno: Have you been good boys?
The boys nervously look at Akeno, whose face is so close to them.
The boys: Yes, we have, big sis Akeno.
Akeno: Good, then you boys deserve some kisses, now come here.
The boys comply and take turn to receive kisses from Akeno with joy and laughter
While all of this happen, Koneko is tossing some kids into the air, make them scream in the process
Kids: Big sis Konekooooooooooo........ put me down please.
Rias comes to Arto's side, holding 2 kids in her arm, they are playing with her hair
Rias: Are you okay?
Arto: Dealing with them is harder than with the monsters.
Rias: Awwww~ Don't say that, they are very cute.
Arto: Deal with 20 of them at a time and you'll understand.
Rias: I have dealt with that before and it turned out fine, you are just not there yet.
Arto: How did you manage that many children?
Rias: I have my way~
As they are playing with the kids, Misaki get in
Misaki: Everyone, it's time for lunch.
Kids: Yessssss.
The kids then run to the dining room and sit orderly, waiting for the feast. Then the cooking club come in serve the kids and everyone else with the cold udon with tempura
Everyone: Itadakimasu.
Then everyone enjoy the meal
Misaki: How do you like udon?
Rias: Delicious, the tempura is so crispy but not too greasy
Akeno: I love the noodle, they are chewy and delicious, I can taste the home-made factors, it makes all the differents
Robin: The dipping sauce is balanced between sweetness and saltiness. Very good.
The kids are enjoying the meal, the younger ones are fed by the orphanage's employees ,the older ones are playing with their food, which is very funny.
After the main course comes dessert, the ice cream is served to the kids, they are waiting for this, the kids flock to the ice creams, and each one of the kids gets an ice cream.
Koneko: So good.....
Arto: Give your compliment to Toshiro here, he made the ice cream for us.
Koneko turns to Toshiro with a thumb-up
Koneko: Very delicious, are there any more?
Toshiro: There aren't any left, they devoured them all in minutes, but I didn't make them alone, employees at Jinshi's family's bakery helped me a lot as well.
Sona: Arto, what are we going to have for dinner?
Arto: Ramen. I am simmering the pork bones for dinner, and there will be cheese cake too so stay tuned, okay?
Tsubaki: You guys are making tonkotsu ramen, yes? What can we do to help?
Arto: There is no need, you should spend the afternoon with the kids, they seem really like you girls, you can help me distract them to prevent them from accidentally getting into the kitchen. You can help me with that, yes?
Akeno: Anything for you, Darling~
Arto: Then I must take a nap now, see you for dinner.
The girls then go to play with the kids: some girls are playing with Rias's hair, some kids are listening to stories from Robin, she made a few of them fell asleep, some older kids are being taught by Sona and Tsubaki, Koneko and Akeno take care of the sleeping kids. As the afternoon goes by, the aroma from the ramen broth gets more fragrant, Arto and the cooking club are preparing the noodles and the topping: the scallions, pork belly,......... As the cooking team was working someone sneaked into the kitchen and suddenly hugged Arto as he was seasoning the broth.
Arto: You come for the broth, yes? Akeno?
Akeno: Nothing can get past your eyes, huh, Arto? Yes, I am here to have a taste test.
Arto takes a spoon of broth and feed it to her, she thinks for a moment and tell me
Akeno: It's delicious, as always.
Arto: Are there any biases here, Akeno?
Akeno: Nope.
Arto: I don't trust you, guys, have a taste for me please.
Everyone takes turn tasting the soup, and the result is
Misaki: There isn't any bias, Aruto, it's just delicious.
Arto: I am glad.
The cooking goes on, more people go to the kitchen for some tasting, some even bring the kids for them to have a taste. It's almost dinner time when he hears a car sound outside the orphanage, Arto comes out to see Kira has arrived with the cheese cakes, a lot of cheese cakes.
Kira: What do you think?
Arto: Splendid, the kids would love this.
Koneko: What is that wonderful smell?
Koneko pops her head out of nowhere and is taken aback by the cake, she attempts to take one for herself but is stopped by Arto. Kira then delivers the cake inside secretly, so that the kids cannot see them. The cooking team then assembled the ramen as everyone took a seat and prepared themselves. The moment Arto brought the soup pot in, every attention was focused on it because of the incredible aroma. The soup was creamy, flavorful, combined with roasted pork belly, bamboo shoot, seaweed, and scallion to create a wonderful meal for the orphans.
The bowls were finished in no time, someone even asked for another bowl, which flattered the cooks. After the meal, cheese cakes were brought into the dining room, making everyone surprised about how good it smells.
Since the cake is very airy, one kid can easily finish half a cake with no problem. After the team finishes their cleaning, they bid farewell to the kids and the director of the orphanage. It's a wonderful night indeed, everyone is happy, full and looking forward to the next time.
Rias, her peerage, Arto and Robin return to the clubhouse to finish their day, with a final shower before heading to bed. Tonight, Akeno is sleeping with Robin to do "God knows what", while Rias has Arto all for herself tonight, which makes her beyond happy. What an eventful weekend.
Notes:
Well, what a eventful weekend our characters have, well, I'll get back to the main story in the next chapter when the retrieving of the 'Dream Mirror' begins.
Chapter 9: The mirror
Summary:
Arto's trip to get the 'Dream Mirror'
Notes:
We are now back to the story after a relaxing weekend, enjoy.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
A new week has started, I've had my best resting times to regain my energy, preparing for the big day, everything is ready: equipment, spells and mentality for my mission, the mission to take the 'Dream Mirror'. My last piece to create the simulation room. To be honest, I can create the simulation room with the materials I am having now without the mirror, but it cannot reflect my dream into reality, which is the purpose of the room, a training ground for Rias, Sona and their peerage. Even with every resource the room gets, it cannot create monsters with diversity like my brain, and those monsters cannot develop stronger to match their opponents. Yes, the monsters in my dream grow stronger after I defeat them, that's the reason why I cannot get out of there. But in Rias's peerage case, it's better for them, since they have more space to develop their power. So fighting constantly stronger monsters would help them grow, and teach them not to underestimate their opponents.
As I was walking to school with Rias's peerage excluding Koneko, who has now gotten used to the gravitation spell I put on her body, she can work out normally with 60kg more on her body. I have been gradually increasing the weight little by little, 10 grams each day. Kiba, he has been practicing on his own most of the time, but her has now been able to add traits to the swords summon by embedding spells into the sword like: poison, fire, gravity,.........., by doing this, he doesn't have to consume his own mana to enhance the sword any more since the spell embedded into the sword would take mana from outside to make those traits. According to the last time I sparred with him, his sword can shoot fire, spray poison gas, increase gravity in a small area,........All in all, Kiba is now more versatile, with more tricks under his sleeves.
Rias: When are you planning to go take the 'Dream Mirror'? I can't wait to try that simulation room.
Akeno: Can I come with you to take it? Please, Please Arto~
Arto: I'll go take it this evening. It's now inside a highly secured mansion of a crazy rich man named Sakamata Ryu.
Rias: The President of Sakamata Industries?
Arto: That's him.
Akeno: What is the role of the mirror to him?
Arto: The mirror is the artifact that helped him reach this high in his career. He uses this mirror to reflect his dream into reality, which means he can make products out of nowhere, without any employees, factories, or manufacturing lines.
Rias: Pure profit?
Arto: Yeah, all his factories, machines, employees are all the products of the mirror, that's why he got rich so fast, he doesn't need any capital, and the money he earned is 100% profit.
Rias: So the reason he pays his employees so high is because.........
Akeno: .........those employees are not real, they are just the product of the mirror, they don't need money.....
Kiba:......It's the way for him to reduce his tax.
Arto: He reports a loss every year, but still maintains a high salary for the employees. There isn't any recruitment announcement but there are still people working there. But all those benefits come with a catch.
Rias: What is it?
Arto: The effect range of the mirror is very low...........
Rias:........is that the reason why, all of their factories are all placed in a specific region......
Kiba:.........The mansions?
Arto: Bingo, the mirror is placed inside his mansion.
Akeno: But the products don't disappear while they are shipped outside of the effect range to the customer? How?
Arto: Those products are real, they use mana to manifest themselves, so they are practically real, but...... Ryu needs to know every detail of the thing he needs to produce, because if he doesn't, the product cannot be functioned when manifested into reality. For example, he needs to know how this washing machine works down to the role of the smallest bolt to make a fully functional washing machine.
Rias: That's tough, combine with dreaming about it, he must be a master in lucid dream
Arto: He is. And he has to study a lot too, not just business but also technical matters.
Kiba: Well, every success has its own price huh?
Akeno: Indeed, but Arto, do you know the function of the monster in your head? Since you need to know how they work to manifest them into reality.
Arto: I know really well, down to the smallest details of how the monsters work, even their weaknesses....
Rias: Then how could you still struggle with them in the dream when you know too well about them?
Arto: Because the monsters have their own ways to fight against my knowledge, they constantly change, make it harder to find and hit their weak points, that's the thing I want to add into the simulation room, enemies that develop alongside you. The reason you 2 *gesture to Akeno and Rias* had a sweet time fighting those monsters because I can quickly figure out how they work and their weak points and told you two to hit there.
Rias: So when you are not around....
Akeno: ...we have to figure things out on our own.
Arto: Yes, you need to practice the abilities to analyze your opponents. You 2 have done it from time to time....
Rias: But it's kinda slow, it took me a few minutes to figure out how my enemies work.
Akeno: Me too, before I could figure it out, they got to me.
Arto: Don't worry, after I retrieve the mirror, I'll teach you guys some basic knowledge about analyzing your opponents. Since you guys are very smart, you can develop your own way to analyze the monsters. And remember...
Kiba: ....Never underestimate your enemies. I have figured out as much from that time you beat the crap outta me with a twig.
Arto: Yes, now, let's head to school, it's getting late.
As we head to school, we hear some commotion among the students about a new teacher. I look at Rias to see that she doesn't know either. After saying goodbye to Kiba, we head to class for our first lesson of the day: history.
Random boy: Have you heard? There will be a new teacher, and she is smoking hot.
Random boy: I wish she would teach our class.
Random boy: I wanna see those fine ass while she is writing on the board
We take our seat as I ask Rias
Arto: You seriously don't know about this?
Rias: I don't, I tend to not care.
Arto: Sona, do you know who the new teacher is?
Sona: I don't, we are not able to know teacher matters.
Then the bell rang, telling me the lesson had begun. After a few minutes, the door slid open and the new teacher came into the classroom which astonished everyone, even me. The boys were having the time of their life ogling at the beautiful teacher in front of them, I can see some of them are drooling. We are not surprised by her beauty, since we have been seeing it quite some times, but we are surprised by who she is.
The teacher: Good morning class, from today I will be your new history teacher, my name is Nico Robin. I hope we can get along.
The boys: BEST DAY OF THE WEEK!!!
Robin: Ara, seems like this class is quite energetic, then let us begin our lesson.
Arto: It's good she can do something she likes. I'll see how you go, teacher.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Robin teaching)
The bell has rang, telling the lesson is over
Robin: Well, look at the clock, we have run out of time, we'll have to save the story for next time.
Boys: Please stay, miss Robin, don't leave.
Girls: Just 5 more minutes, please miss Robin, we're getting to the best part.
Robin: It's rare to see students so eager to study history, I am glad. But I have another class after this, good bye for now, my students.
Robin then leaves the class, leaving sad students behind her. The girls want to know the ending of the story, the boys didn't have enough time admiring her beauty. All in all, she did leave a great impression with her look, her knowledge and her beautiful voice. She even winked at me before leaving, which caused me to be harassed by my male classmates. Why, Robin?
Arto: How's it going, guys?
Random boy: What is your relationship with Miss Robin, our goddess?
Arto: There isn't any, this is my first time seeing Miss Robin as well.
Random boy: Then why did she wink at you back then? Answer us!
Arto: There's nothing about it, maybe she was winking at someone else.
Random boy: No, she definitely winked at you.
Arto: Then maybe something flew into her eyes, that's it! Some dust must have flown into her eyes, making her wink.
The boys: Oh no, our Goddess's eyes are in danger. Must bring eye drops to her immediately.
The bell rings
Arto: Well, look at the time, next lesson is coming, you guys should head back before you feel the wrath of our class monitor.
The boys turn to Sona to see her deadly smile, they immediately go back to their seat like the good boys they are
Arto: Thank Sona for putting them in place.
Sona: That's my job as the class monitor. Those simps....
Rias: They seem to like Miss Robin very much, a little too much to be honest. Let's just hope that none of them fell in love with her.
Arto: A little too late....
Akeno then turn back to face me and whisper to me
Akeno: What would those boys in love think when they know that Robin is living with us, or should I say, with you? Fufufu~, I would love to see their face
Arto: You want to see boys in this school chase after me that much, Akeno?
Akeno: Nope, I want to see you struggle~.....it'd be so much fun.
Arto: As long as you are happy, I'll beat the crap out of all the male students in this school.
Akeno: Ara ara~, I am looking forward to it, my Warrior~.
Arto: You know that's a joke, yes?
Akeno: Not anymore, young man, I'll tell everyone that.....
I cover her mouth with my hand and whisper to her
Arto: What are you doing? We have agreed on this, not announcing our relationship. And Robin's matters too.
She got out of my hand
Akeno: And what are you going to do about that? Punish me? This bad girl is waiting patiently for your punishment....
She get closer to my ears
Akeno:.....Mas~ter~
I pinch her cheeks
Arto: What should I do with you?
Akeno points to the left, I follow her finger to see the boys are looking menacingly at me. I stopped pinching her cheeks. Lucky for me, the teacher has come to save my time dealing with my classmates.
And the lessons go on, till lunch. Today we decided to have lunch in the school canteen. Sona and Tsubaki are sitting opposite me, who is sitting in the middle of Rias and Akeno. As usual, Akeno is the person who makes bentou for us everyday. I offered her my help but she declined, saying that I had prepared breakfast so lunch would be her duty and Rias would take care of dinner. I can't argue against that so now I am enjoying my Akeno's dishes which are delicious, combined with the spell she made recently to preserve food's condition, the bentou taste like it has just been made a few minutes ago.
Sona: You food preserving spell is quite handy, can I have that spell? My food tends to not be as hot anymore at noon.
Akeno: Gladly. I am happy that my spell can help people around me.
Tsubaki/Sona: Thank you Akeno.
Akeno: Don't mention it.
Akeno happily shows her notebook for Sona and Tsubaki to copy. But suddenly, the canteen went quiet, which surprised us, cause the canteen is normally quite noisy. I look up to see what happened, and what a surprise, it's the new goddess of the school, Miss Nico Robin is walking inside the canteen, her astounding beauty focuses every eye on her, voices silenced by her steps. She then stops in the middle of the canteen, looks around, trying to find something. After a moment, she found what she was looking for, us. She comes and sits with us, beside Tsubaki. Now all of the eyes in the canteen are on us as she takes out her bentou.
Arto: Uhhhhh.....Miss Robin?
Robin: What, can't I be here?
Rias: Of course you can, it's just....*tilts her head to the crowd*
Robin: I feel kinda lonely in the teacher's room, and every other teacher is looking at me.
Sona: And you decide to come here, where there are more eyes on you.
Robin: At least I can sit with those I am familiar with. Besides, having students looking at me is better than teachers. I got used to it this morning.
Akeno: We are glad to have you sitting with us, Miss Robin, RIGHT?
Students: RIGHT!
And the lunch goes on, but it's kinda weird, people are looking at us, no, at Miss Robin, I can hear camera sound here and there, taking pictures of the beautiful teacher. Robin doesn't seem to mind that, she smiles brightly every time someone asks her for a picture. The first day at school and she is now a celebrity.
Akeno: So Miss Robin, how is your meal?
Robin: You gotta ask? It's delicious, how could you keep them hot even after the whole morning?
Akeno: I'll tell you later. *shhh*
Arto: Time for some stories..Miss Robin, I wanna ask you something: What happened in.......
Robin: Well.....
Issei POV
Finally, we have been able to cut those girls from the kendo club off by running into the canteen. But the canteen is weirdly crowded today but not so noisy. I can hear the sound of the camera snapping constantly and some voices yell.
??1: Please look this way, Miss Robin
??2: Smile for us, miss Robin.
??3: You are so beautiful, Miss Robin.
.....
Miss Robin, I heard today we have a new teacher, but why is she here?How does she look?....How big is her breasts?.... Too many questions, my friends and I decided to barge into the crowd, try to get to the front to see Miss Robin. After 5 minutes, we finally got to the front and the sight blew me away.
She is gorgeous, beautiful, elegant,.... But the thing I focus on the most is....is her breasts, they are big, juicy, I wanna touch them, suck on them, I want her in my harem.
Issei: Motohama, analysis
Motohama push his glasses up and said
Motohama: 99-59-89.
Oh my god, her breasts are almost as large as Rias's, those juicy breasts, I wanna touch them.
As I get closer to her, I can hear her talking happily with someone. I take a look at the one to see, that's Aruto Abyga, the new student that transferred here more than a month ago. Looking at him, I notice something: he is sitting between Akeno-senpai and Rias-senpai, opposite to him are Sona-senpai, Tsubaki-senpai and Miss Robin. He is sitting between the most beautiful women of the school. Not only that, they are happily talking to him, even Miss Robin. I can feel my jealousy rising by the second, that spot should be mine, why is he sitting at MY spot. My jealousy took over me as I barged at him, but suddenly, I was stopped by someone, I turned to him and saw that's Takeshi Hamuda, one of the bulkiest guys in school.
Hamuda: What do you think you're doing, pervert? Are you trying to touch our goddess with your filthy hands, you have annoyed kendo club enough, now Miss Robin as well? I won't let you.
He said as he held me in place. I can't move, I received a punch from him in my face, and I refuse to do so again.
3rd POV
Robin: And that's what happened.
Everyone: Ohhhhh.........
Random girl: That's wonderful story, please tell us more, Miss Robin
Random boy: We can listen to your stories all day, Miss Robin.
....
More people pleading with Miss Robin to stay and tell them more stories, she seems really happy about it, but when she looks at the watch on her wrist and sighs.
Robin: I would love to, students, but we have run out of time, I'll have to go back to teaching. I'll see you in class, okay?
Student: Awwwwwwwww...
Robin then stands up and walks out of the canteen, the students quickly follow her steps, get out of the canteen and back to class.
Arto: Well, you guys can stop complaining about people eyeing you everywhere you go.
Rias: I'll make sure to thank her later, she really did me a favor taking all of those attentions away from me.
Akeno: Yeah, and she seems quite happy about being famous like this.
Tsubaki: Her stories were so good it silenced the whole canteen, everyone was listening to her stories, even the employees were here too.
Sona: But we need plans to protect her, more attention focused on her means there might be more people with ill intention. And we know how reckless perverts are when they see someone like Miss Robin.
Arto: She can protect herself pretty well from those that want to kill her back then, but Sona is right, we need some counter measures in case Miss Robin is harassed by those perverted men.
Rias: Miss Robin's matters aside, how is your preparation so far?
Arto: I have had everything prepared now, all I need to do now is suit up and we'll see.
Akeno: I wish you success, you'll be heavily rewarded if this mission turns out successful.
Arto: Well, more reasons to push forward.
Sona: This project will not just benefit us but our families as well, so they are expecting a lot from you.
Tsubaki: Come home safely, cause there'll be some unhappy faces if you don't.
Arto: Thank you girls so much, I'll do my best, to pay gratitude for all the helps you and your family have given me
Arto POV
And the afternoon passed uneventfully. Miss Robin has become the new topic of the class, everyone is talking about her, her beauty, her voice, her stories,........We still focus on studying magic. I have move on to a new aspect of spell after everyone is getting the hang of the basic, except Sona's peerage since they started learning pretty late compare to others, so I have to hold 2 classes, one for Sona's peerage, one for the others where I started to teach them about hand signs in spell casting.
Arto:......So in dire times like a battle, time is precious, your opponents will not give you any time to cast your spell manually. So using hand signs and compact spells is the best option.
Sona: So are there any rules for this?
Arto: Nope, you are the one who set the rule, this is just a way to store your spells and use them as quickly as possible in battle, you can open your hand to see: each set of fingers on your hand can store a spell, which means....
Akeno: .......With one hand, I can store up to 31 spells.
Arto: Correct, that's just one hand, your other hand can do the job too.......
Rias: ........We can even make hand signs out of 2 hands combined.......
Tsubaki:.......That's a lot of spells.......
Kiba:..........And a lot to remember.
Arto: You heard Kiba, to use this effectively, you must remember your spell and the hand sign that calls it, if you don't, doing it the manual way would be safer and your mana will not be wasted on useless spells..........
The school day ended is also the time for me to finish my preparation for the heist of the 'Dream Mirror'. I take a quick shower, have dinner with Rias, Akeno and Robin before putting on my suit. I look at myself in the mirror and take a deep breath.
Arto: C'mon, me, no time to be nervous, people are looking at you go, Rias is supporting you, Akeno is supporting you, Robin is supporting you, Kiba is supporting you, Koneko is supporting you, Sona is supporting you, Tsubaki is supporting you. You can do it, you have done it many times in the past, what would this time be different? It's just a mirror, sneak in, sneak out, easy. Robin has helped me by providing the security system map for me. I have prepared everything with everyone: battle knife from Kiba, knuckle from Koneko, stealthy suit from Rias, counterfeit mirror from Sona, sound proofing boots from Tsubaki and......
Suddenly I feel someone hug me tightly from behind. I turned back to see my beloved Akeno, we share a smile that greatly boost my spirit
Arto:....moral support from Akeno. Thank you Akeno, your hug boosted my confidence greatly.
Akeno: Then use that confidence to finish this mission in success, Darling~. I'll be waiting for you~.....in bed~.
I kiss her on the lips before departing on my mission.
Arto: Arto Abyssgard, heading out.
I then teleported to my destination, well, 20km to the west from my destination. From here onward, I'll have to travel on foot, since teleportation is blocked within this area. I slowly approach the mansion where Sakamata Ryu is staying where the 'Dream Mirror' is
The mansion is positioned in the center of an industrial area, factories are everywhere, and they are all working, day and night, never stopping, smoke is constantly shooting out of the high pillars. I started to make my way to the mansion. But it's not easy, the way there is constantly being scouted by bat-like monsters with yellow bright eyes that can see in the dark. Those eyes can also detect magic if I am not mistaken, on their hands are the honk to alert others of any intruders. To get to the mansion, invisibility is not enough, I need something I can use to mask my magical trace, and I have the right measure for that.
I called a spell from my hand sign, 'Null Zone', it creates a zone around the object and blocks energy from radiating to the outside, making the object completely invisible from all kinds of detectors. I slowly walk past the factories, avoiding the sight of the monsters since the 'Null Zone' doesn't help me turn invisible, but I have this stealthy suit from Rias so it's fine, but I still need to be careful, they might be able to see through invisibility. Not only that, the boots I received from Tsubaki helped me prevent footprints on the ground, gotta thank her later, maybe with a gift, what should I get her? Guess I'll ask Akeno about it later. As I was going, I heard alarming sound from the other side of the industrial area, so there is another intruder, but after a while, the sound was gone, it's either my fellow intruder have made their way in or they have been dead
And my journey continues.....As I was sneaking through the factories, I can see the products of Sakamata Industries: Electrical Products like: washing machines, dishwashers, blenders, ovens, stoves,...... With the help from the 'Dream Mirror' his products have very high quality, but they're more expensive. But people are still willing to buy them because of their high quality.
I continue walking deeper into the industrial area to see more and more guards scouting the area. It looks like there were people sneaking in here before, and Ryu knows how important that mirror is to him. The guards are more heavily armed the closer to the center: machine guns, thermal detecting glasses, cameras everywhere, guards scouting through the night, no rest, I'll have to traverse through the factories, going among these guards might get me caught, so I jump on the roof of the factories, travel across them, avoid those flying cameras, as much as possible. The sound of the guards reporting about an intruder came into my ears, which freaked me out because I thought they were talking about me.
Guard 1: Boss, we have lost them
Guard 2: They has escaped through one of the factories windpipes
Commander: Send more people, don't let them approach the mansion.
Guards: Roger.
So there are more than one intruders today, I wonder who spread the news about the mirror......Hmmmm. How much did they pay you, 'The spy'? *Robin lightly smile at him* Well, more people, more baits, I...I mean more comrades. I keep heading to the mansion without any guards knowing, maybe their focus is all on the visible intruder.
The adventure took me near the mansion
It doesn't look that bad, but it is mysterious, inviting for curious minds. This must be the place, standing alone in the middle of the industrial area, covered in fog coming from the smoke of the factories. The center of it all, where the 'Dream Mirror' is, Sakamata mansion. The mansion is highly secured, with lines and lines of guards, flying monsters acting as cameras, big juggernauts as tanks, there are even machine guns positioned on the towers of the mansion. The most important part is the magical barrier, domed the mansion, this will block any intruders from getting in, or getting out. I'll have to look for some less crowded place to head in, but where? Every meter square of ground is carefully guarded, I think I would need some distraction, since I have already got the measure for the barrier. I take out my smoke bombs, pin on it some little seeds that carry loudest sounds I could find: gun firing, honks, screams, bomb explosions. I then cover them in 'Null Zone' and throw them to my desired destination without any attention. After everything is in place, I take a deep breath and activate the bombs. The bombs exploded, the smoke cover the ground in front of the mansion
Guards: What is the meaning of this?
Commander: Don't panic, look for the intruder, cameras!
But as the flying camera are spreading around, looking for the intruder, or me, I was about to activate the sound seeds, some black clouds have formed on the sky, this distract the cameras away from me, suddenly, from the cloud, lightning bolts were shot out, hitting and destroying many cameras, this time the guards have been distracted to the clouds, I take this chance and activate the sound seeds on the smoke bombs causing deafening sounds, that distract them even more.
Commander: We are under attack, there are so many of them, HOW!? Soldiers, shoot inside the smoke, juggernaut, shoot at the cloud. I'll report to the Boss.
The guards complied and started spamming inside the smoke. I take this chance and run in, taking advantage of their distraction, combined with 'Null Zone', invisibility suit and silence boots, I easily get past those soldiers and head to the mansion. Next problem, 'how do I get inside?', I asked myself as I was running through the soldiers. I use my magic to slowly creek open a window on the first floor to head inside, the inside of the mansion really astonished me, the width and the height could be on par with the Akita public library where I first meet Robin, the room I am now in is the living room and it scream luxury, I am amazed but my priority is the mirror, I started my search for the 'Dream Mirror'. Where could he hide it?
I activate my spell, try to detect the mirror but to no avail, I'll have to find another way. Suddenly, my ears perk up to the faint sound from upstairs, it looks like my bait.....no, my fellow intruder has made their way inside this mansion, maybe they are here for the mirror too, so I must be quick. I try to detect some hidden mechanic in this mansion. and I found one, it's inside his bedroom upstairs, and he is still inside, looking out the window. I slowly walk to the second floor, heading to his bedroom. Suddenly, the smashing sound can be heard from one of the tower of the mansion, Ryu's bedroom door open, he walk to the source of the sound to check, walking beside him are 2 humongous dogs, as big as a tiger, razor sharp teeth, red menacing eyes, they quickly follow him to the tower. Good job, bait, I....I mean fellow intruder, I will not forget you but from now on please forget me. I got into his room, moved a certain book on the shelf to open the path inside the secret chamber.
But it required Ryu's fingerprint, lucky for me, I have just the right spell for this. I call a spell using my hand sign, and successfully retrieve a fingerprint on his window. I used them to open the path to the mirror, I hope. I found an elevator at the end of the road, using his fingerprint again. As I was traveling down, I could see what he was hiding. Weapons, weapon factories, positioned underground, working day and night. From hot to cold, from physical to chemical, even tanks but no tags, no name, just products. So Ryu hides the main money source here. Robin told me about the weapons used in the underworld, no one knows who made them, but have high quality and cheap, so Sakamata Industries is the author of all this The I travel underground to somewhere that looks like a ritual room
In the big chamber there is a hole in the middle that can be reached down by 4 stairs, and in the middle of it all is the thing I was looking for: The 'Dream Mirror'.
I sigh in relief and walk down the stairs to take the mirror, I put a counterfeit in its place and put the real mirror in my bag. However, as I was about to escape, I heard the deafening sound from the other side of the chamber. I immediately got into my battle stance, I thought they had found me. But, to my surprise, the bait....STOP IT!, the other intruder is still alive and they are leading the guards here. The intruder was blasted by magic and they fell into the hole, their mask was blown off, revealing it's a girl
Her body is badly injured, she is losing a lot of blood, her body is shaking as the guards surround her and in the middle of the crowd is......Sakamata Ryu.
Ryu: Well, well, well, isn't it the famous 'Cat Burglar'? You think you can just get in here, kill my dogs, take what you want and leave as you like? That smoke bombs, fake sounds and those clouds of yours really did the trick, but it could only take you as far as here. Lucky for you, you got to witness the 'Dream Mirror' before you die. GUARDS!
The guards slowly approach her in a circle as the mirror slowly descends to the ground, she has no chance to escape, her situation now reminds me of something, someone,........Oh, right, it's me. Should I leave? I've got the mirror, everyone is waiting for me at home, helping her means spoiling my disguise and announcing my presence to them. I look down from the edge of the hole, seeing the girl being kicked, punch and tossed like a sack of potato while being greatly injured, this ignited something within me
Arto: ARGHHHHH.......You heroic bastard, I am sorry, everyone, but I can't stand out of this.
With my battle knife and knuckle, I jumped down the hole, broke their circle from outside, killed everything in my sight, the guards didn't seem to know what was coming, they couldn't defend against me, one by one they fell.
Ryu: What is the meaning of this? Who is killing my soldier? Why can't I sense him?
As he was asking questions, I kept on killing, corpse after corpse, left in my knife, blood started to spill more and more as I got closer to the girl. I knelt down to her, used some healing spells on her, and for the first time tonight, I let my voice get heard when she looked in my direction with her eyes barely open.
???: Who.....who.....is......it?
Arto: Don't worry, I'll get you out of here, I promise.
Ryu: Whoever you are, you are not leaving this place alive. JUGGERNAUT!
Suddenly, the living tanks are teleported to the ritual room. They started to shoot magical barrage into the hole to kill us. I activate a shielding spell to protect me and the girl. But this can't help us out of here, then I remember something, the 'Dream Mirror'.
Arto: Time for a test run.........
I said as I took out the mirror from my pocket and focused my mind on it. After a few moments, some portals opened from the ceiling of the chamber, and hundreds of nightmares started to come out.
They are dropped in the juggernauts, crushing them like a bug with their finger-like legs.
Ryu: What.....what....are they? The mirror? How could you control it? How could you activate it while it's not here?
Ryu tried to approach us but was blocked by a Fingercreeper. He was about to be caught but one of his juggernaut protected him, but ended up being turned into a jam by the monsters from my dream.
Ryu: NO, NO! KILL THEM, KILL THEM ALL!
He said as more weapons are brought in: machine guns, grenades,....they use everything to kill those spiders. I took this chance, coat the wounded girl in 'Null Zone' and an invisibility cloak, before carrying her out of the chamber while Ryu and his troops were busy with the Fingercreepers. As I reach the mansion above, I quickly activate a spell that nullifies the teleportation block of the area.
I teleported away, carrying the girl with me back to the ORC clubhouse to treat her wounds. However, instead of teleporting to the living room, I got teleported into my bedroom, where Akeno, Rias and surprisingly, Robin are there, naked and are reading my notes together with high concentration to the point they didn't notice my presence, maybe because I was still in my 'Null Zone' and invisible so they can't sense me. From the look of it, I can see that they are reading about my old Legion, Abyssgard and how it's functioned.
3rd POV
Robin: So this is how they recruit people....
Rias: Quick, I wanna read about the maturing ritual for young soldiers...
Akeno: Wait, They reside in the lowest ring of hell, which means....
Arto: Yes, girls, I used to be a devil.
Girls: ARTO!!! You have returned.
Rias and Akeno went to hug him while Robin was still on the bed and smiled at him. They soon realized that he is not alone.
Rias: Who is this girl?
Akeno: I see you brought another woman home, a beautiful one even, Arto you lady killer.
Arto: Can we talk about this later? She needs treatment.
Rias: Oh, right.
He quickly positioned her on his bed, beside Robin. Robin takes a look at the wounded girl's face and realizes who she is.
Robin: Isn't she Nami, the 'Cat Burglar'?
Rias then came into the room with all kinds of bandages and healing potions.
Rias: You know her?
Rias asked while treating her wounds
Robin: Of course, she is a famous thief in the underworld. She has pulled off some stunning heist. Information about her worth a fortune and now she is here, looks like this heist is too much for her to handle alone. Besides, have you gotten it?
He then pulled out the 'Dream Mirror' out of his pocket.
Arto: Here it is, and it works wonderfully.
Akeno: You tested it?
Arto: To save this girl of course.
Rias: Fair enough. There, her condition is stable now, but she needs some rest.
Hearing this, he yawns and gets out of the room
Akeno: Where do you think you are going, Arto?
Arto: I need a shower and some sleep, you girls stay with Nami, I'll sleep alone tonight. I know you have many questions about me after reading that notebook of mine, but save it for tomorrow, I am really tired now, may I borrow your room, Rias? *She nods* Great, good night.
He said as he went to the bathroom.
Rias: Oh, okay, goodnight Arto. Akeno, leave him alone for a night, will you?
Akeno: If you say so, Rias, then I would need more cuddles from Miss Robin here.
She said as she launched herself into Robin's embrace. Robin happily rub her head
Robin: Ara ara~ You are such a good girl, Akeno, you made a good decision leaving him alone.
Akeno: I am clingy sometimes, but I know when my man needs his alone time, I think he doesn't want to disturb our guest here. About Arto used to be a devil, the moment he told me that he had a 3000 years life, I had my doubts, but I was never able to bring myself to ask him because he doesn't seem to like talking about it.
Rias: Indeed, the amount of knowledge he has about the supernatural world is unreal considering he has only been in this world for more than a month. Oh, so the cold place he used to live is the deepest ring of hell. So that's the reason why he likes looking at the sky so much, the sky where he lives is artificial.
Akeno: Not just artificial, they are bleak and boring, no day and no night. I saw them for myself, you definitely don't want to live there.
Robin: Girls, it's time to sleep, you still have school tomorrow.
Rias/Akeno: Yes, Miss Robin.
Then they position themselves on the bed, Akeno is hugging Robin, while Rias is doing the same with Nami.
Robin: What are you doing Rias?
Rias: I am hugging her, I have learned this technique recently, it helps quicken the healing process but it requires skin contact.
Akeno: She learned it to treat ARTO when he is wounded.
Rias: He deserves as much, what man doesn't like being healed by the woman he loves while sleeping with her naked? I save this treatment specifically for Arto, but using it on Nami here would be a fine test run.
Akeno: You gotta teach me that, 2 is better than 1, no?
Robin: It looks kinda interesting, I wanna learn too.
Rias: I'll teach you later, now let us get some sleep.
They then head to bed.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Nami, Robin, Rias and Akeno sleeping on the same bed)
3rd POV
And the morning came upon Kuoh town, the sun shines through the room's window, into the the eyes of a orange-haired woman, waking her up, she opens her eyes, look to her front to see 2 raven hair women hugging each other, deep asleep, she try to get up, only to feel an arm wrap around her body, and a gentle sound of breath hits her back. She slowly turns back to see who is behind her, it's a beautiful red haired girl who is hugging her. Her movements seem to wake the red haired up, she slowly gets up, the blanket on her body slowly falls from her, revealing that she is totally naked. She rubs her eyes then turns to the orange haired woman.
Rias: Good morning, Nami, did you have a good night's sleep?
Nami: Who...Who are you? Where am I? How did you know my name? What did you do to me?
Rias just smiles and says
Rias: Do not worry, we mean no harm, in fact we are the one that treated your wounds after our friend brought you back here from that mansion of Sakamata Ryu.
Nami looked down to her wounded body with bandages on it.
Nami: Thank you for treating my injuries, miss....
Rias: Rias, Rias Gremory. It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Nami.
Nami: Seriously, how did you know my name?
Robin: I told her.
Nami turns back to see one of the raven haired women has awakened, she sits up, revealing her naked state.
Robin: You two are so noisy, I can't sleep, I haven't had enough comfy time with my little Akeno.
Akeno is still sleeping while muttering something
Akeno: Arto....my beloved....please don't let me go......let me feel your warmth....
Robin: She is so cute, isn't she? Anyway, I am the one that told them your name.
Nami: How did you know?
Robin: I have my own way~ *shhh*
Nami: And where am I now?
Rias: You are our house in Kuoh town.
Nami: Kuoh? Never heard of it.
Rias: Yeah, we tend to stay lowkey, avoid attention, that's the reason why this place is so peaceful.
Suddenly, they are hit with the fragrant smell from the other side of the closed door. This smell immediately wakes Akeno up.
Akeno: He's cooking, gotta go see, I haven't been with him since yesterday. Oh my beloved.
Akeno quickly gets out of bed, and proceeds to get out of the room naked.
Nami: Hey, where do you think you are going? Put some clothes on.
Akeno: He doesn't mind me naked. Besides, it's not like he is gonna look at my naked body or anything.
After saying that, Akeno was about to continue her journey, but Robin said
Robin: Akeno, put some clothes on or I am not hugging you anymore.
Akeno: Yes, Mom.
She reluctantly get back inside and put on her usual uniform before Robin pat her head which she really likes
Robin: Good girl, now go see your man, I'll be there in a minute.
Akeno: I love you Mommy Robin <3
Robin: And I love you too, my sweet little Akeno
Nami: Are they........
Rias: Nope, they are not. They are just acting that way, which is very cute. Akeno lost her mother at a very young age, so I am glad Robin can take up the role as Akeno's mother figure.
Nami: Rias?
Rias: *Putting on her clothes* Yes?
Nami: Do you have any spare clothes? My suit from last night was destroyed.
Rias: Oh, right, I totally forgot, let me get you something to wear.
Rias then goes to her room to get Nami something to wear.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Rias choosing clothes for Nami)
Rias has come back with some new clothes for Nami to wear
Nami: This isn't your room?
Rias: Nope, this room belongs to your savior, the man who is cooking downstairs.
Nami: Then why did you 3 sleep in his room, naked?
Rias: Well, we were reading his notebooks here until he came back with the 'Dream Mirror' in his bag and you in his arms, he put you on his bed for us to treat, he slept in my room last night since he didn't want to disturb you. Normally, we sleep with him. As for why we sleep naked, it's just more comfortable that way.
Nami: So you girls sleep with him, naked?
Akeno: Just us two, Robin hasn't but soon, I can see some signals of her affection toward our man.
Nami: You are okay with that relationship, one man - many women?
Akeno: He refused at first, but we insisted since we both love him very much, we decided to share.
Nami: Are you really happy about that?
Rias: We are, he loves, cares and protects us both equally, I don't see any problem with that. Beside, we love each other and we can't stand the other being unhappy
Nami: Well, let's leave that discussion to another time, let me just put on these clothes.
Rias: You look so beautiful, Nami. These outfits really suit you.
Nami: I know, right? You made a wonderful choice, Rias. We should go shopping sometimes.
Rias: You read my mind.
Robin: Now, now, let's put shopping matters aside, we have breakfast and school today.
Akeno/Rias/Nami: Right.
They then go downstairs for the delicious breakfast that Arto is cooking. With every step the aroma gets stronger. The moment they are inside the kitchen, they saw Arto cooking, he didn't notice their presence, until Akeno walks to him
Akeno: Good morning, my Arto. How is breakfast going?
Arto: Good morning, my Darling. Have a seat, it's almost done.
Akeno then gave him a kiss on his lips before taking her seat at the table. Next is Rias, she get to him
Rias: Congratulations on your successful mission last night, my Beloved.
Arto: Thank you, my princess, you girls play a role in my success, I can't thank you enough.
Rias: I love you *kisses his lips*
Arto: Love you too, Rias *kiss her lips*
After Rias, Robin comes to him
Robin: You deserve rewards for all your efforts, here is one of them
She then kisses him on his cheek and look at what he is cooking
Robin: It smells so good, I am waiting, sweetie~ Surprise me, okay?
Arto: You know I will.
Robin then takes a seat beside Akeno.
Lastly, Nami comes to him, but before she could say anything , he asked
Arto: Did you have a good night's sleep, Miss Nami?
Nami: I did, thank you for saving and treating me. But may I ask why? You could have just left with the mirror, protecting your identity.
Arto: Because seeing you being beaten like that, it reminds of someone.
Nami: Who?
Arto: Myself, I was in your position once, being beaten with no mercy, even if I cry, plead, yell, but it never stops, I couldn't stand seeing anyone suffer from that like me once.
Nami: Thank you once again, and sorry for disturbing you.
Arto: Don't be, it's in the past, now all you gotta do is enjoy this breakfast and heal, go on, take a seat with everyone else.
Nami complies and takes a seat next to Rias. After a while, the breakfast is finally done. Arto brings everyone their breakfast.
Arto: Enjoy!
Everyone: Itadakimasu.
Notes:
The 'Dream Mirror' is now taken and we have Nami is now in the story, the ingredients for simulation room are all here and the constrction of the room will be initiated in the next chapter
Chapter 10: The simulator
Summary:
Construction of the simulation room and it first test run
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
It has been 1 week since the 'Dream mirror' mission. I have been having a pretty peaceful time, going to school, teaching magic to my students, training Robin to help me with the class, and preparing myself to construct the simulation room. As for Nami, she is staying here with us now, she said she wanted to have a rest for some time after what happened at the Sakamata mansion. Rias is the most happy about this, she and Nami have many things in common: elegance, leadership, confidence, intelligence, love shopping. The last time these 2 went shopping together, they brought the whole mall home. Lucky for me, Rias's family is insanely rich, so she was able to pay for what they wanted to buy. If the paying person was me, I would've died. She also has joined my magic class and starting to develop her weather controlling magic, she is getting better quickly, on par with Akeno.
About Robin, it's kinda weird, like she teaches me in the morning but at night, she is my student, everyone in my class is slowly getting used to the smart, beautiful goddess Nico Robin sitting with them studying magic. She quickly became the star of the class, the smartest student of mine, surpassing Rias, Sona, Akeno and Tsubaki. She can even take over the class when I can't teach and the lesson still went smoothly. Still, she still has her problems. She comes to my room a lot at night, sleeps over sometimes to ask me questions about the exercises she has problems dealing with, most of them are very hard and no other students have reached this point yet. She really does live up to her name as 'The Spy', she can process information with insane speed, she can grasp the spells that would take others a week or two to understand in 1 or 2 days.
Robin: And that's how it's done.
Everyone: Ohhhhhhh
Robin: Did I do it the right way, teacher~?
Arto: You did it flawlessly, Robin. I have nothing to say. With you helping me, I can leave the class to you while I start constructing the simulation room without worries.
Robin: I'm flattered, but still, I have much to learn from you, teacher~. I'll take good care of everyone until you are done with your project. Say, can I sleep in your room tonight? I have some questions that need your attention.
Akeno/Rias: 3 nights in a row, it's growing.....
Arto: You don't need my permission for that, feel free to sleep with me anytime, Rias and Akeno like you sleeping over a lot. Those bedtime stories of yours were the best.
Robin: I'll take that offer, fufufu~
Arto: Well, that's all for today, everyone, remember to do your homeworks, if you have any question, ask me or Miss Robin directly or you could ask your classmates if you want. Goodnight.
After the lesson, I had dinner with Rias, Akeno, Nami and Robin, and a refreshing shower really took all the tiredness off my shoulders. After returning to my room casually with a towel over my shoulder, I saw Robin is telling stories to Akeno, Rias and Nami: Akeno is lying of Robin's lap, Rias and Nami are laying their head on either of her shoulder, the girls are having their sweet time with Mommy Robin, they totally forgot about my presence, which is not bad since I need to prepare something for the simulation room construction. I position myself at my table and prepare my notebooks for the talk between me and Robin. But before getting to work, I spend some time listening to her story and look at her and the girls.
Robin: ..........The end.
Robin looks around to see Rias, Akeno and Nami are all asleep. She lightly smiles and positions all the girls in my bed in order: Akeno, Rias and Nami. When she is done, she elegantly walks to my desk and sits at the chair beside mine, the chair she put there so that she could study with me since our talk about her problems tends to be very long, because the problem was very complicated. Out of nowhere, she wrapped her arms around my waist and laid her head on my shoulder.
Arto: Thank you for putting the girls to bed, they might pull me to bed too without you. Now I can focus on my work.
Robin: There is no need for a 'Thank you', I love these girls a lot, being their friend, sister or even mother is my joy, not duty. They are more than just students to me, they are like my little sisters, they are my family, you are too my family, you took me in, protect me from those that are after me. After a long time, for the first time I found people I could love, could be myself when around, and for the first time, I found peace, just being a normal teacher at a normal school, no running, scheming, killing, just........live and enjoy. Thank you for that, Arto, for giving me a new life, I owed you as much.
Arto: You're welcome, Robin, you deserve as much, consider this as a reward for your effort. And I'm just a person who delivers it to you. And without further ado, let us see your questions today, Robin?
Robin: There aren't any questions today, I just want to spend some time with you alone, and help you review your blueprints before tucking you in bed, I'll let you stay up late, but no all-nighter. Now, let us proceed.
After a while of reviewing, Robin asks me
Robin: So Arto, tell me about Abyssgard, your Legion.
Arto: Why though? Didn't you read it all in the book?
Robin Why read a book while I can hear from someone who has been through it all. Tell me, like how I tell you my stories
Arto: Very well, what do you want to know first?
Robin: What is Abyssgard?
Arto: Abyssgard is a legion of devils, residing in the lowest ring of hell, carrying the duty to protect the world from the Abyss.
Robin: What about its origin?
Arto: It was a long time before I was born, approximately 10,000 years, a hole appeared in the deepest ring of hell, from there, monsters came out by armies, made of pure darkness, they invaded every ring of hell, kill and destroy everything, the defense forces couldn't wound them, so one by one, they fell, by day, they reach closer, and closer to the human realm, the devil kind were on the brink of extinction. Until they came, the founders, the first Abyssgards.....
I stopped to take a breath, Robin rise up from my shoulder and look at me
Robin: Keep going, what are they like?
She talked in an excited voice
Arto: Just a little break, here.......The founders of the Abyssgard were a group of devil slaves, working in the mine, they only have name, no surname, some have lost it, some were never born with it. They found some strange metal chunks when they were mining. Suddenly, an Abyssal monster attacked the mine, killing everyone. When they found the group, they used everything they had: shovel, pickaxe, fist,...to fight back the monster but to no avail, when all hope was lost, the leader of the slave group, Arto.....
Robin: Arto? So that's where your name came from.
Arto:...Yes, I was named after one of the founders, I take pride in that ....... let us continue ....... He used the metal chunk to fight back the monster and it works, the monster was killed by that metal..... That's when the table turned, the strange metal was turned into weapons, pushing back waves of Abyssal monsters. The war went on with triumph after triumph for the devil. And in the end, the monsters are pushed back into the pit, the souls of the fallen were used to create a barrier over the pit, preventing the monsters from coming back, that's the 1st Abyssal War........
Robin: What happened to the founders?
Arto: They were given the lowest ring of hell to live and stop the Abyss from invading the world again.
Robin: And the people that fought alongside the founders?
Arto: Most of them left.....only a few remain. They had to recruit the whole army again. On the bright side, they received support from the higher ups to fight back the Abyss. This is also the time the name 'Abyssgard' was born. Everyone that joins the army and proves themselves worthy will be given the name 'Abyssgard'.
Robin: So 'Abyssgard' is more like a title than a name?
Arto: Yes. Since almost no one wanted to join Abyssgard, they had to recruit criminals, exiled, orphan....And through time, Abyssgard became the home for those neglected by their community, those that have nowhere to go, we welcome them with open arms, give them shelter, food,....purpose. We put all of their strong points, value into use, and develop Abyssgard to become one of the strongest armies in 3 factions. Our compassion with the abandoned and slave earns us respect from the lower class of people. But not so much from the noble even though we are practically one of them, they use our origin to mock us every time, they use the word 'Slave Knight' to call us.
Robin: That's harsh, you save their asses and they just.....
Arto: We don't mind that. They can call us whatever but in reality, they are just afraid of our power and technologies. They were never able to defeat Abyssgard. Moreover, they need our weapons, troops, technologies for their own war, with others or among themselves.
Robin: Then what about.....
(Timeskip: brought to you by chibi Arto and Robin sitting together on the desk)
Arto: Finally, it's done, only took 3 hours instead of 5 like I estimated. Thank you for helping me, Robin.
Robin: Get yourself some sleep already, it's 2 a.m, you have school tomorrow.
Arto: Yes, mom~
We then head to bed, Robin gets on the bed, lies beside Akeno and wraps her arms around Akeno's waist from behind. I take the spot right behind her and hug her from behind. Robin's body is very warm and soft
Robin: Good night, Arto~. I'll see you in your dream
Arto: Good night, Robin~. Tonight, just us 2, I don't want to disturb their sweet dreams.
Robin: Agree, I'll support you with all I can.
We then are slowly driven into slumber.
And morning came as I slowly woke up. Last night's battle was quite easy with Robin's help, there isn't much I can teach her, she knows exactly what spell I need and when I need it, she can even cast multiple spells at the same time by summoning more hands to support me. The only thing she is lacking is her mana pool is quite small, so she can only put all of her advantages into use when she is in my dream, where mana is recovered at insane speed. I'll have to make some external mana source for her and for me after the simulation room is done, I have already got some ideas, all I need now is time.
Robin: Good morning, Arto~. Last night was wonderful, you were very strong~
Arto: Good morning, Robin. You did really well last night, I am satisfied.
Akeno: Ohhhhhh, so you lured us to sleep with your wonderful story so that you can spend the whole night having 'fun' with Arto. How was it? Was he strong like a beast? How was his stamina? Did he treat you with care or brutality?
Robin: Yes, Akeno, Arto was strong as a beast. His gentle exterior contains enormous strength inside, combined with insane stamina. I think he goes on and on for days. But all in all, he is still a gentle man, he treats his women with care and love.
Akeno's eyes widened hearing this. After that, she licks her lips and looks at me in the face, her face expression representing a predator looking at its prey
Akeno: I'm looking forward to it, my Arto~
Arto: I'm in danger, must escape........Well, I am heading downstairs to make breakfast, you 2 go take a shower, and wake these 2 sleeping beauties up.
Robin: Leave it to me.
Akeno: Let's take a shower together~
Robin: You read my mind.
The 2 ladies then walk to the bathroom together while I head downstairs to make breakfast. The morning went on smoothly, until.......
Robin: Today, we have a new student, please come in, dear
The class door slid open, revealing an orange haired girl with beautiful brown eyes and of course, the boys were screaming in joy that another goddess had landed in their class.
Nami: Thank you, Miss Robin. Hello everyone, my name is Nami, it's nice to meet you all. I hope we can get along.
(A/N: Imagine she's wearing Kuoh Academy uniform)
Random boy: Goodness, she's beautiful.
Random boy: Look at her body. She's like a goddess
Random boy: I'm in love. Please marry me, Nami
Boys: BEST CLASS IN THE WORLD.
Arto: Wha.......Rias?
Rias: What? She wants to study here, she said she had never been to school before, so here she is. She looks really good in the uniform, doesn't she?
Akeno: Indeed, the boys are going crazy about her, how nice~ fufufu. Guess our school is welcoming another idol.
Sona: Well, at this rate, it'll be very hard to deal with these horny boys.
Nami then looked down to the class to see Rias, Akeno and I.
Nami: Rias? You're studying here too? What a coincidence, we can hang out more now that I am here.
Rias: It's good to have you here too, Nami, we can enjoy school life together now.
Robin: Do you have any questions for Miss Nami here?
After some few questions about where she lives, her hobbies, if she is single or not.... The class can finally begin.
After another wonderful lesson from Miss Robin, the attention was shifted directly to the new student, Nami. Everyone was looking at her as she approach Rias with a smile
Nami: Good morning Rias
Rias: Good morning Nami. How was your first day at school?
Nami: It was great, I didn't expect this much attention but I'll get used to it. Besides, I'm getting tired of staying at home all the time.
Arto: Well, I'm glad you can find a place where you can enjoy yourself. The class is even livelier now that you're here.
Sona: More chaotic you mean?
Arto: Nope, more livelier, everyone is very happy, look at the boys.
The boys are drooling over the new student. Nami saw that and did a pose...
....that made them nosebleed. After a moment, all of the boys are slain by her beauty.
Nami: Well, all thanks to you that I had a new, wonderful life, Arto. Come here.
Suddenly, she wraps her arms around my head and pulls my face into her chest. Akeno, Rias and Sona saw this, but it doesn't look like they're gonna help me. They kinda like it since I can hear their laughter from behind me
Arto: How in the heck she is so strong? I can't escape now. HELP! I am suffocating here.
Nami: Oh, Arto, you'll never escape my hug so stop struggling. It's not everyday that you get to enjoy a girl's chest like this.
After a while, I decided to surrender and wrap my arms around her waist and enjoy what this life gave me. To be honest, her chest is very comfortable, on par with Rias's and Akeno's.
Suddenly, the boys were revived somehow, and looked at the scene before them. Screams of hatred and jealousy have been heard.
Boys: WHY IS IT ALWAYS ARUTO? WHYYYYYY? ARUTO YOU BASTARD, STOP STEALING ALL THE GIRLS, YOU MORON.
Hearing this, I rise up from Nami's chest, look past her shoulder at the boys
Arto: For your information, I AM the one who brought her here, so stop complaining and enjoy what life gave you. And you're welcome.
I said as I buried my face in Nami's chest again. Nami then pet my head and said
Nami: You're such a good boy, Aruto. And yes, because of Aruto's recommendation that I decided to study at this school, so this should be a 'Thank you' instead of screaming, boys.
My male classmates can't argue with that, instead they look at me with stars in their eyes and now see me as an idol. On the break of the next lesson. They started to ask me to introduce some girls to them.
Random boy: Aruto, how did you get in touch with Nami?
Arto: I met her in a science conference, she was studying about weather and so was I at that time, so we exchanged contact info, and we chatted from then on. She is very smart and passionate about this matter, so one day, I recommend her to come live here and study so that we can be close to each other. And surprisingly, Nami is an old friend of Rias here *point to Nami is bantering with Rias*, so it's so much easier to talk.
Boys: Please Aruto, please, please, please, please introduce some girls to us! We're tired of being alone. You know a lot of smart and beautiful girls, right?
Arto: I gotta see how you guys go. Then I'll consider it.
Boys: Yes!!!!
Akeno then turns back and whispers to me
Akeno: Are you really going to?
Arto: *whisper* You know it.
Akeno: *whisper* You're such a deceiver. You gave them so much hope....
Arto: *whisper* And you'll love it when I take it all away.
Akeno: *whisper* Ohh their miserable faces. I love you so much, Darling~ fufufufu
Arto: *whisper* Anything for you, my love~
And the lesson went on, I don't have to worry about the boys disturbing me anymore. And now comes lunch. Today, we decided not to come to the canteen to eat. Instead, we enjoyed our delicious bento made by Akeno in our class with Miss Robin who arrived from the teacher's room.
Nami: Wow, this bentou is so delicious, you really nailed this, Akeno.
Akeno: Fufufu~, I'm glad you liked it like everyone else.
Nami: Like it? I loved it. Everything doesn't get cold after the whole morning, it's like this bentou has just been made a few minutes ago. How did you do that?
Akeno: Here, this is the spell that I used to preserve the food's condition through time.
She opens her notebook for Nami to see. And she is totally amazed.
Nami: Arto, you taught her all this?
Arto: I just taught her how to do it, but the rest is solely made by Akeno, that's my girl.
Robin: Who said she is your girl? She's my girl, right, Akeno?
Akeno: I belong to you both, so there is no need to argue, Mommy Robin and Arto, or should I say......
She then get closer to my face
Akeno: Daddy Arto~
Arto: Stop that, it sounds weird, where did you get that name?
Akeno: Well, it's only natural, I consider Miss Robin as my 'mommy', and you are the one that did the 'deed' with my 'mommy' so I should call you 'daddy', no?
Arto: What 'deed' did we do, Robin?
Robin: A lot, we spend time together, study together, sleep together, eat together. We both love Akeno and take care of her together so in a sense, we are her parents.
Arto: Huh?
Akeno: See? Now hug your sweet daughter, Daddy~
She launched herself into my embrace, buried her face in my chest. I can't resist her when she's acting childish like this
Arto: I love you, my sweet daughter Akeno.
Akeno: Ehehehe~, I love you too. But I still wanna be your girlfriend though.
Arto: I know, don't worry, we can maintain this funny relationship while still being lovers.
Nami: Wait.......that means......
Sona:....You and Robin are dating?
Tsubaki: That was fast.
Arto: Are we?
Robin: If you want, I don't mind it.
Rias: C'mon, dear, don't leave your girl waiting. Kiss her, to seal your relationship.
Arto: Really?
Out of nowhere, Robin grabs my face with her hands and kisses me on the lips, I melted into the kiss with Robin, her lips have a sweet, delicious taste to it, which makes me not want to end it. After a few minutes, we separated and I could see the blushes on her beautiful face which made her even more gorgeous.
Robin: Well, guess we are in a relationship, Arto.
Nami: Wow, look at your face, no blushes, not even a tint of pink. Are you really that cold?
Arto: Nope, I just have high composure and good at controlling my emotions, not cold though
I turn to Rias and Sona to see they have already had their phone out. Even Akeno, who is hugging my chest, had her phone out too.
Arto: What did you guys do?
Akeno: Oh, nothing, just saving your happy moment with Miss Robin here. What would everyone say if they knew that the smartest student is in a romantic relationship with the goddess teacher of the school?
Robin: Are you guys trying to blackmail me and Arto?
Arto: If so, even if it's not so, leaving you with such information is dangerous. Robin?
Robin: On it.
We both snapped our fingers. The image of their phones disappeared without a trace.
Rias: Wha.....Oh, right....
Sona: The spy and the teacher, we can't win this time.
Tsubaki: Sorry for making you 2 uncomfortable.
Robin: It's okay, I've been in this kind of situation too much to panic, I guess you too, Arto?
Arto: Me too, dealing with information leaking is crucial in leading a Legion.
Nami: I told you guys it wouldn't work.
Rias/Sona: Sorry.
Akeno: I am such a bad girl, what punishment are you going to give me, Daddy~?
I just lightly pat her head and said
Arto: Don't do that again, or else your Mommy will be sad.
Robin: You two are so cute.
We shared a heartwarming laughter. After that, we went back to normal and enjoyed lunch to its fullest.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto looking at a blueprint with construction hat on his head)
3rd POV
Robin: Hello, everyone, today I will be the substitute teacher for Arto, since he is now starting to construct the simulation room. And until he finishes his project, I'll be the one who will be teaching you all. Now let us open our textbook to page......
The scene then moves to the basement where Arto is standing with blueprints, materials and equipment ready.
Arto: Let's get started.......
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto building with magic with construction hat on his head)
Rias POV
It's been a month, a month since Arto started building his simulation room, I don't get to see him very often, he usually absences from school, pulls many all-nighters, it took all of our effort to get him to sleep. The teacher at school kinda never asks about why he is absent since his score is sky-high, to the point other students think he just goes to school for fun. He doesn't even talk to us much anymore, he is either working or sleeping, that's all he does in a day. The amount of coffee he drinks could be divided for everyone in this school to drink for a week. I haven't gotten to taste his delicious breakfast for a month, which not only annoys me, but everyone else. Questions started to arise about what happened to Aruto Abyga, the smartest student, the brightest prodiger in every subject.
We offered him some help but he declined, saying that this is something only he could do and we would get hurt if doing it the wrong way. He still maintains his gentle personality, but he looks more tired by the day, the bag under his eyes gets darker and darker due to staying up all night. For some nights, we had to faint him so that he could sleep. Akeno and Robin were the most worried of all of us. They always keep an eye on him to make sure he eats and sleeps, and prevent him from consuming too much coffee. About the lessons, Robin has been teaching us for this whole month, which is not bad but it tells us that Arto is still busy with his project to help us get stronger, to make us better.
After school ended, today we won't have any extra classes. We arrived at the clubhouse to see that Arto is inside, his naked body is sweaty, dirty and shaky. I can hear him panting heavily, just like the day we met. He has never been in the clubroom at this hour for a month, which means........
Rias: Arto, Did you finish it?
Arto: I.......I......did. Thank you for asking.
Sona: The simulation room is completed?
Arto: Indeed.
Akeno: That means...........
Robin: .....you'll be back to normal now?
Arto: Yeah, I'll be back to normal after a hearty meal and a good sleep tonight.
Rias: I'll make dinner right away. You go take a shower.
Arto: Thank you Rias.
Tsubaki: I can't believe it, he completed a complicated construction in a month.
Sona: His working rate is insane, he even pulled many all-nighter for this project. This man's stamina is incredible.
Akeno: And he did all that for us, to get us some good training ground, help us develop our power, I love him even more now, my precious Darling~ fufufufu
Robin: I have read his blueprints many times but I still haven't fully understood how this simulation room works, his intelligence is enormous....... Maybe that's the reason why he doesn't allow us to help, we might kill ourselves in the process.
Nami: I can't believe that a person can combine technologies and magic like he did with this simulation room. I have a lot to learn from him.
Everyone: Us too.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Rias cooking with chef hat on her head)
Arto POV
That shower was refreshing, it didn't only wash off all the dirt and sweat but all tiredness and stress. This room really makes me go all out, and it's completed, all I need now is a hearty meal and a good sleep. I arrived at the dining room as the wonderful fragrance hit my nose. I'll love this meal and enjoy it to the fullest.
Rias: Arto! Come and have a seat, I am making dinner.
Rias is cooking with a cute little chef hat on her head. I move behind her and wrap my arms around her waist and bury my face into her hair. I can never get tired of those wonderful rose smells from her.
Arto: I miss this smell, I love this smell *inhale* Ahh. You are amazing, my crimson princess.
Rias: I know, and you smell amazing too, my prince, you don't know how much I miss you.
Arto: Sorry, my love. You must have been very lonely in the last month.
I then feel someone with a fragrant lavender smell hugging me, it must be my beloved 'Daughter' Akeno.
Akeno: I miss you too, Darling. I miss those delicious breakfast you make me every morning. Even after a month, I couldn't get used to sleeping without you by my side.
Arto: I'll make you the best breakfast tomorrow.
Akeno: *Kiss my cheeks* I am looking forward to it.
Robin then join the group hug by hugging my side
Robin: The students always ask where you are, teacher~. Look like they want the Arto Abyssgard back to class.
Arto: Don't worry, I'll be back tomorrow.
Nami goes to hug his other side
Nami: Arrrttoooo, When you were not at school, there were some perverts peeking at me while I was changing. You must teach them a lesson.
Arto: Who are they?
Nami: A brown hair, a bald and a glasses.
Sona: So the 'Perverted trio' was peeking at you, those disgusting pigs.
Arto: Let me make a call, *clicks* Yes?............Hamuda-senpai?............How did I get your number?.....Not important........It's the perverts again.........Who you asked?...........Nami..........I know, I know, teach them a lesson........*Give the phone to Nami*
Nami: Hamuda-senpai, help me, those perverts were peeking at me while I was changing, I even heard some camera snaps...I am okay now.......Do it as you like....... *clicks*
Tsubaki: Wow, you really have the school thug as a friend?
Arto: Nope, from the time he beat up those perverts to help the kendo club girls, all those thanks and gratitude gave him a new light. Now he is more upstanding, less of a thug and treats women with care and respect, he and his gang even went as far as protecting the school girls while they venture through dark alleys.
Suddenly, my phone rang, I picked up and hear Hamuda's voice
Hamuda: Aruto, is Nami there? Can you give your phone to her?
Arto: She is here, just a sec, Nami, it's Hamuda-senpai.
Nami take the phone and turn on the phone speaker
Nami: Yes, Hamuda-senpai?
Hamuda: SAY IT, YOU BASTARDS, SAY IT!!!
Issei: I am so sorry, Nami-senpai, we are so sorry for peeking at you in PE class. Please forgive us, we'll delete all those images.
Motohama: Please, forgive us, we promise not to peek at you again, please tell Hamuda-senpai to stop.
Matsuda: Yes, we'll not peek at you again, we have learned our lesson, please spare us.
Hamuda: What do you say, Nami?
Nami: That's good enough, make sure they delete all those images. Thank you so much Hamuda-senpai.
Hamuda: You're welcome, these perverts deserve as much. Have a nice day, Nami, if there's any perverted bastard after you, call us.
Nami: Will do, thank you again, Hamuda-senpai. *clicks* Just a call and the problem is dealt with, you rock, Arto.
Arto; There's no need to dirty my hand when I can train a person to do so for me.
Sona: That's just amazing, he trains a school thug into an upstanding man, with a passion to protect girls against perverts. My future husband is spectacular. So, Arto, now that the simulation room is completed, when will we get to try it?
Arto: After dinner, I'll take you to see it. So do you care to join us?
Tsubaki: We would love to.
And we enjoyed a delicious dinner made by Rias, the meal I've been craving to have for a month. After that, I take them to the basement to show them the simulation room that I built. We slowly arrived at the basement, to see a white door there. Robin points at the door.
Robin: Behind that door?
Arto: Yes, it is behind that door.
Rias goes to open the door to see
Everyone: Wow........
Arto: Welcome to the simulation room, this will be the place you guys will train yourself.
Rias: So when will we get to train here?
Arto: This weekend, your and Sona's peerage will train here cause I still have some tests to run. I informed Joseph about this and he said he would bring Lord, Lady Gremory, and your brother to see how much you have progressed. He also said he would invite Sona's family too. So you guys must prepare yourself for this.
Rias/Sona: What!? You invited our families to watch us?
Akeno: This will be interesting, it's like an Open House.
Arto: Yeah, they are my investors, they would want to see the result of your training and see how the simulation room goes. Besides, having your family there would be a boost for you guys so that you're not slacking off.
Rias/Sona: *embarrassed* Okay.
Arto: Robin? Nami?
Robin/Nami: Yes?
Arto: I need you girls to help me with the test runs. Everyone else, prepare yourselves, this weekend will be a big day for you and for me.
Everyone: Yeahhh!
After Sona and Tsubaki have gone home, I can finally call it a day, I go to my bedroom to see Akeno, Rias and Robin are waiting for me in their nightgowns
Rias: Welcome, Darling~.
Robin: We've prepared the best bed for you~
Akeno: You have earned it, now let us pamper you tonight.
I have nothing to say, one month of constant effort is paying off, now I'm gonna enjoy myself tonight.
Arto: I love you girls so much!
Rias: We know~
Robin: Stop stalling and come to us...
Akeno....Daddy~
I put on a content smile as I throw myself on the bed, into their embrace and spend the night in harmony. Weirdly, tonight I had no dream, I just closed my eyes in the comfortable embrace of my girlfriend: Rias on my left, Robin on my right, Akeno on top of me, the next moment I open my eyes to their wonderful fragrance, their soft but firm bodies, their light, gentle breaths, this is the morning I want to wake up to, I'm lying still try not to wake the girls up, to enjoy these wonderful comfort. After about 30 minutes, one of the girl started to stir awake, from under the blanket, Akeno's eyes met mine with a smile, before the 'Good morning', we shared a deep kiss
Arto: Good morning, my Darling~. How was your sleep?
Akeno: Good morning, Honey. This is the best sleep I've ever had in a month, you are indeed the best hugging pillow, I love you.
Arto: Love you too, Akeno. I am glad you like hugging my body, yours is wonderful too, I can feel those muscles hugging me, firm yet still soft. You really have gotten stronger in the last month.
Akeno: I've been training the whole month to impress you, my love. It seems to be paying off.
From my left, the crimson princess has also awaken
Rias: Can you two keep it down, I want to sleep more.
I gently kiss her forehead
Arto: We're sorry, I'll be quieter.
Rias: *get her sleepy face closer to me* You kissed the wrong spot.
Arto: Ohh, sorry, Rias *kiss her lips*
Rias: That's better *Went back to sleep*
Robin: What about me, sweetie~?
Arto: Here's a kiss for my favorite assistance *kiss her lips*. It seems you girls have all woken up, time for something you have been waiting for a month, a hearty breakfast.
Akeno: Me likey~, I am tired of eating those store bought breakfast.
Robin: Remember to make me coffee, Darling~
Arto: Then may you ladies let me go? Go take a shower, breakfast will be ready in no time.
And everything goes back to normal, instead this time, everyone seems to be more determined and focus on their studying when they heard that there will be people watching and it's not just any people, it's the families of Rias and Sona, so the 2 Kings are more tense than ever, prepare everything they can for the big day, when they will show their improvement to their parents.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Rias and Sona studying together)
A week quickly went by, the big day had come, the day of the first real run of the simulation room. Robin, Nami and I have run all sorts of test runs on the room, make sure it's running properly under any circumstances, and it passed all the tests we put it in. The room is ready to go, and the peerages........They are more focused than ever, more determined than ever. Today they have their parents watching them, their siblings watching them. I can see the Kings are kind of nervous about this, they want to prove themselves to their family, to show them that they have gotten stronger.
As I was seeing the girls preparing in the basement of the ORC clubhouse, I felt the signal from the door
Arto: Our guests have arrived.
Everyone stop their preparation and look at me as I open the door, revealing 8 people:
A long red haired man with a beard on his chin, he's wearing a black and white blouse that shows a bit of his chest. This must be Rias's father
A brown haired woman, purple eyes, and wearing a white dress. Her face looks exactly like Rias, so this is her mother.
Next is a man going alongside a woman who is having a kid coming with them, this must be Rias's brother and his family. The man has crimson hair, like his little sister, he is wearing a luxury suit with a green tie. This man has the vibe of the leader, the power he radiate is astounding, this man can kill me with just a punch, one missed step and I'm dead, but doesn't look that threatening
Coming with him is a woman with short gray hair and..........a maid outfit? She likes it this way or the man forces his wife to? I don't know
She is taking a kid with him, he is like the little and more gentle version of his father with the signature red hair and a polite little suit
That's Rias's family, moving on to Sona's family, there are 3 people: Her father is a tall, black hair man, cold, serious face, wearing a formal black suit with golden details, this man radiates the vibe of wisdom, I think this is where Sona get her attitude from.
The next one is her mother: black hair, pink eyes like her daughter, she is wearing a white kimono with a neutral look on her face, gotta say, she's gorgeous and Sona inherited a lot from her mother
Lastly, Sona's sister, she also has the combination of black hair and pink eyes like her mother, but unlike Sona. she looks more carefree and less serious, she is wearing a pink cute suit for those that they call 'Cosplayer' I think. But, she also radiates enormous power like Rias's brother, hiding behind that cute look is a power house.
Arto: Greeting lords and ladies, welcome to our humble clubhouse. Thank you for spending some of your precious time to spectate our performance with the simulation room. My name is Arto Abyssgard. It's a pleasure to meet you here.
Rias's father: It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Mr Abyssgard, my name is Zeoticus Gremory. I have heard a lot about you from my daughter, and I must say, you pack many surprises within you. The time you form an alliance with 'The Spy' really astonished us, and we are glad to have a valuable ally like her. Thank you for that, Mr Abyssgard. *Offer him a handshake*
Arto: *Take his hand* It's my pleasure my lord, those resources that your clan provided me helped me a lot so far. I must thank you for all the generosity you gave me.
Rias's mother: You have such good manners, Mr Abyssgard. My name is Venelana Gremory, my daughter is really head over heels about you, she talks about how wonderful you are and how taking you in is the best decision of her life every time we have a talk.
Arto: It's my pleasure to meet you as well, Lady Gremory, now I know where Rias get her beauty from *she giggles* and I am glad to be a part of her development.
Rias's brother: So you're the man that deals with those annoying mimics, I must thank you for not harming any artifacts that were put in there, those are very valuable to me.
Arto: It's my pleasure.........
Rias's brother: Ohh, where is my manners? My name is Sirzechs Lucifer, it's a pleasure to see you in flesh and bone, Arto Abyssgard. *offer his hand*
Arto: Lucifer? He's Rias's brother, yes? Lucifer? Guess I'll ask Rias later.......The pleasure is all mine *shake his hand*.
Suddenly, the red hair boy run to me and ask
Sirzechs's son: Are you Aunty Rias's boyfriend, she said you are very smart and very cool.
Arto: She said so? How nice of her, what else did she tell about me?
Sirzechs's son: Well.....
Sirzechs's wife: Millicas, where is your manner? Introduce yourself first!
Millicas: Sorry mother....
Sirzechs's wife: Sorry about my son's attitude, he is a bit excited to meet you. My name is Yelena Gremory, It's a pleasure to see you in person, Mr Abyssgard.
Arto: It's my pleasure as well, Mrs Gremory, and now to this little man over here.......
Millicas: Hello, my name is Millicas Gremory, it's a pleasure to meet you, Mr Abyssgard. *bows his head *
Arto: Good boy. You taught him well, Mrs Gremory.
Next up is Sona's father
Sona's father: So you're the one people are talking about, Arto Abyssgard. Let me introduce myself, my name is Sora Sitri, it's a pleasure to have finally met you, Mr Abyssgard. Say, I am eager to know how your simulation room works, can you show me?
Arto: Yes, my lord, you'll witness the function of the room shortly. And I must thank you, my lord, for all the materials you provided me with to complete this project.
Sora: There is no need for a 'thank you', I basically just invested in your project to see how one can combine magic and technology. And you said you had succeeded, I am looking forward to it.
Arto: You'll be pleased with the result, my lord.
Sona's mother: Good day to you, Mr Abyssgard, I am Sena Sitri, so you are the man who defeat my daughter in a game of chess, from the look of it, I can see you are a fitting choice for my daughter, let me see how far you can get with that intelligence of yours.
Arto: Absolutely, my lady, I'll do my best to live up to your expectation about my brain and make Sona happy.
After greeting Lady Sitri, Sona's sister jumped in front of me and did a pose
Sona's sister: Greeting, my name is Serafall Leviathan. Nice to meet you here, Mr Abyssgard
I unconsciously followed and did the same pose.
Arto: It's my pleasure as well, Miss Sirti......
She looked really happy as she hugged me.
Serafall: See someone gets it. We can be great friends in the future.
Arto: I guess.
Now that everyone is here, time for the main event. I lead them to the basement where I set 3 sets of comfy sofa, fruit and good wines that I teleported to France to buy and a big screen above the white door that leads to the simulation room. On each set of sofas there are name tags to specify who sit where: one for Lady and Lord Gremory, one for Sirzechs's family, one for Lord, Lady Sitri and her sister. On the last set there are blueprints that I used to make the simulation room which lord Sora really liked. He immediately read the blueprints with nods and mutters like 'Very good', 'Interesting',.........
Zeoticus: You have good taste with wine, Mr Abyssgard, you chose just the one I liked
Arto: Thank you Robin for that information. I'm glad you like what I have to offer, my lord.
Serafall: Now, where is my cute little sister and her peerage?
Sirzechs: I think they are inside the room
Arto: Indeed, Nami, turn on the screen.
Nami: On it.
The basement's light is turned off as the screen is turned on revealing everyone inside. They all looked ready, but before that, Robin and I moved in front of our audiences and put our index finger over our lips.
Sirzechs: This will be interesting.
Sora: It's a good idea, young man
Zeoticus: Go with your plan, I like it like that.
Sena: Will they be okay?
Venelana: I know they will.
Millicas: What is Aunty doing in there, mom?
Yelena: She is doing her test. Watch closely, you might have to attend this in the future too.
Millicas: Yes, mom.
3rd POV
Rias, Sona, and their peerage are now inside the simulation room, preparing for what to come, this time, they are all on their own, Arto will not be here to guide them this time, everything he has taught them will be put into use today. They are in the battle suit they made using magic.
(A/N: Everyone is wearing this suit, the only different is that the belt and details are blue from Sona's peerage)
Arto: Can you hear us, Rias, Sona?
Rias/Sona: Loud and clear, Arto.
Arto: Alright, let us begin our official run today, I wish you guys good luck.
The simulation room suddenly get dark, the door disappeared with only a small blue bonfire appeared where they stand
Arto: You guys are now at the beginning of the battle, your mission is to.........to..........to.................................................................
Rias: Arto!? ARTO!!
Sona: I have also lost connection, I can't call outside anymore.
The knight, Tomoe of Sona's peerage is getting panic because of the darkness and the connection lost
Tomoe: President, what happened? Are we stuck here forever?
Momo: Calm down Tomoe, we can reach the door and.......... Where is the door? It's here just a few minutes ago
Tsubasa: Calm down you two, I bet Arto is doing his best to save us, all we need is wait
Akeno: And fight
Tomoe: Huh?
Tsubaki: Look
Rias: We must fight and survive until Arto is here to get us out.
Sona: Indeed, that's what we have been practicing to do. NOW, get in formation, we need to defeat them all.
Peerages: Roger
The peerages quickly form a formation with 4 lines surrounding 2 Kings : 2 rooks at the front, then 2 knights next, then 2 queens to 2 bishops.
Rias: We'll make the walls, Sona!
Sona: Right
The king then form magic circle that make a tall many layers stone wall around them
Sona: Rooks, Queens, you secure the walls, deal with anything that try to climb up. If it's too much to handle, fall back to the next wall.
Rooks/Queens: Roger
Rias: Knight, you'll do the harrassing mission, distract them as much as possible and deal with the important enemy like their casters. Bishops make deep ditches with spikes at the front and between the walls to hold them off.
Sona and Rias then put 2 sigils on the Knight's back
Sona: This will help you return to safety if thing go souths
Bishops/Knights: Roger
Rias: We'll deal with their air forces
Everyone gets in a fighting position and starts killing. Koneko and Tsubasa kill the monsters who are climbing the wall or are stuck in the ditches. Akeno and Tsubaki using their naginatas to kill as much as possible to reduce the pressure on the Rooks. Kiba and Tomoe use their speed to get themselves to the back of the enemy, destroy their artillery, kill their sorcerer then teleport back to the base, preparing for the next assault. Momo and Reya constantly throw as many magical attacks as possible to destroy the monster formation. Rias and Sona combine their magic, create a rain of destruction drops, burn their enemies to death.
As the battle goes on, more elite forces of the enemy come into the battle fields, 2 walls have been destroyed, Rias and Sona order everyone to fall back as they make 2 more layers of wall inside and push the undestroyed ones out, maintaining their formation. The back line of the monsters are more secured, they are well protected, making it harder for Tomoe and Kiba to approach.
Kiba and Tomoe have just teleported back, panting heavily, there are some bruises on their body.
Sona: Bishops
Bishops: Yes
The Knights are now being healed.
Kiba: How do we kill them now, President? They are so well protected.
Rias: I have an idea, give me your swords.
Kiba and Tomoe comply, Rias then coats their sword in the power of destruction.
Rias: This should do the trick.
Sona: You guys are good now?
Knights: We are.
With new weapons in hand, Kiba and Tomoe can now deal with the monsters in the back with ease.
But then their juggernaut came in, monsters walked on 4 legs, thick hard skin with a big cannon on their back, and shot from those cannons could make a hole in the stone wall.
Rias: Those annoying tanks.
Sona: I got this.
Sona then initiates a spell that spreads the water onto the monster, the water then gets in the slits of the tanks. She then commands for the water to expand, overloading the monsters from the inside, kill them immediately.
Rias: Nice work, Sona.
As they were gaining more advantages, the ground suddenly shook, they looked at the scene with terror.
Rias: Titans, 30m tall
Sona: So many of them.
Tsubaki: And they are not alone.
Akeno: There are tanks moving with them.
Sona: I'll deal with the tanks, you guys think of a way to kill those titans.
Rias: Where is their weakness? Where? Why do I hear the sound get louder?
They look up to see the titans are not walking anymore, they are running at them.
Akeno: How? How could they....?
Tsubaki: Prepare for impact.
She then flies in front of the fortress, forms her mirror, and expands it around the outer wall. The giants then attack the mirror at the same time, causing an immense explosion when they touch the mirror. After the explosion, when everyone regain their vision to see Tsubaki is terribly bruised, she then fell down but was caught by Akeno
Akeno: Tsubaki! Tsubaki! Please wake up! *check her pulse* She is still alive! She is still alive..
The Bishops quickly tend her wounds.
They look back at the titans to see they are stunned as well, they are standing still.
Rias: This is our chance. Akeno!
Rias then coats Akeno's naginata and her fist in destruction power.
Akeno: I am with you.
Taking advantage of the giants being stunned. Rias and Akeno fly at the giants to attack them. They tried their eyes, necks, chests,.....but to no avail, they haven't been able to kill the titans. They have now gained consciousness as they prepare to attack again. Rias and Akeno decide to drag them away from the fortress.
Akeno: Where is their weak point?
Rias: If not all of those places, then.....I got it, follow me.
Akeno then attacks behind a giant's knee, making it fall on its knee, immobilizing it.
Akeno: Rias!
Rias attacks their stomachs, breaking through the thick barrier. This place is so thick because it's where all the magical energy is concentrated, this is their core. The reactor appears before her eyes as he destroys it, killing the titan.
Rias: It's their stomach, that's where the core is.
As she announced, she spread her power among her allies, coating the Rooks fist and the Knights sword in destruction power. They started to fly at the giant's weak point, break through the barrier, and destroy the core.
And the battle goes on, one by one the titan falls, the tanks are destroyed.......
Finally, the battle has ended, the peerages came out victorious, everyone has some bruises on their body, but their states are all stable now. They are now sitting around the bonfire, tending to their wounds, panting, cheering.
Sona: Tsubaki, are you feeling better now?
Tsubaki: I am, thank you for asking.
Akeno: We should be thanking you, you saved us all. If it's not for you, we would have died.
Tsubaki: Don't mention it, it's my duty.
Tsubasa: Damn Koneko, how did you get so fast? I couldn't keep up with you at all, you were as fast as a Knight.
Koneko: Arto put this on my body.....
She said as she show Tsubasa the spell
Koneko: This will make me feel heavier, I have to train in this state, so that when I take it off, I am faster than ever.
Tsubasa: Ohhh, Can I try? How much is it?
Koneko: About 80kg
Tsubasa: Wow, you take an extra 80kg on your body? I'll try it too when I get out of here.
Tomoe: Kiba, I don't know you could teleport between swords you summon, you can even add traits to your swords. Can you teach me?
Kiba: I will, when we get out of here.
As they were talking to each other, the bonfire started to burn bright, to the point a pillar of light came out of it.
Sona: What is it?
Rias: It's over.Walk into this pillar and we'll be back home
Akeno: Just like in Arto's dream.
They all stand up, Akeno is carrying Tsubaki on her back as they head inside the pillar of light. After a moment, they are now back at the simulation room.
Tsubaki: We're home.
Tomoe: Yipeeee, I can't believe we won that battle.
Kiba: Indeed, it was a fierce one
Reya/Momo: I am ready to hit the bed.
They then proceed to open the white door to see everyone: Rias and Sona families, their siblings, Arto, Robin and Nami are applauding them.
Arto: You guys have done it, you made it through my dream. Good job everyone.
Rias: I...I thought we had lost connection.
Sona: Yeah, the microphone suddenly went silent, we thought there were some errors in the system.
Arto: Nope we cut the contact on purpose, so that you fight for your life with all you have.
He then points behind them, they turn back to see their battle is being broadcast on a big screen above the white door.
Their families started to surround them
Zeoticus: You guys did a good job, it was a splendid battle, I didn't drink any wine because I was so focused.
Venelana: You did a good job finding the titan's weakness. I am impressed.
Rias: If it's not for Tsubaki, we would have failed.
Sora: Those tactic of yours was pretty good, put everyone's strong point into use, good job
Sena: You are a wonderful Queen, Tsubaki. Sona is so lucky to have you in her rank.
Tsubaki: The pleasure is all mine, Lady Sitri.
Sirzechs: Your improvement in power is spectacular, Rias. Not only can you buff yourself, you can do so to your allies as well. You are growing faster than I thought
Rias: Thank you, big brother, I still have a long way to go if I want to be on par with you. But I have this man here *pull Arto's arm* I will make it.
Serafall: You did so great back there my sweet little So-tan, the way you control your water to destroy all those tanks was incredible. I love you so much.
Sona: Sister, please let go of me, my body is still sore.
Millicas: Aunty, you were so cool back there, you were like, swoosh, smash, pew pew pew pew.....
Yelena: She indeed did, isn't she? You did a good job, Rias. You're more confident now.
Rias: Thank you Yelena. Now give me my favorite nephew.
She then takes Millicas from Yelena's arms and swings him around.
Millicas: Aunty, put me down.
Serafall: You did a great job too, Reya, Momo, the healing time has been reduced drastically. Tsubasa too, your punches really make holes in their faces. And Tomoe, don't be too panicked next time.
Reya: Thank you, lord Leviathan, if it's not for Arto, we wouldn't reach that far.
Momo: Yeah, he taught us a lot.
Tsubasa: Don't mention it, I am just teaching them a lesson for touching my sisters.
Tomoe: I have learned my lesson, it won't happen again.
Millicas: Uncle Kiba, Uncle Kiba.....
Kiba: Yes, Millicas?
Millicas: Can you teach me how to perform cool sword fights like you? You were like: *slash*, *slash*, *zap*, *zap, *zap*, *boom*
Kiba: I'll teach you when you are old enough, alright?
Millicas: It's a promise!
Sirzechs: You did a good job there, Koneko! You think you're ready?
Koneko then looks at Arto who is now hugging Akeno
Koneko: With his help, I think I will soon be
Arto: *hug Akeno* You did so good back there, my Akeno, your contribution was splendid.
Akeno: Hehehe, I know, my love for you took me that far. *kisses him* I love you.
Arto: I love you too.
Robin: Now I recommend everyone go take a bath before we enjoy a feast, prepared by Lords and Ladies Gremory and Sitri.
Everyone: Yeahhhhh.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a bathroom door with steam coming out of it)
After everyone was clean and fragrant, they arrived at a fancy buffet restaurant in hell to celebrate Rias and Sona's victory in the simulation room.
Venelana: Eat as much as you like, you have earned it
Everyone: Yeahhh.
After the feast started for a while, Arto was called into a private room where Rias's and Sona's parents are, there are also their siblings and Yelena.
Zeoticus: Hello, Arto. Do you know why we call you here?
Arto: I don't, please tell me.
Venelana: There's no need to be nervous, dear, you are not in any trouble, it's the other way around.
Sena: We want to thank you, for what you have done for both of our families.
Sora: You created the simulation room with endless possibility
Serafall: You bring us new valuable allies
Sirzechs: You taught and trained our little sisters and their peerage. Something we don't have time to do.
Yelena: And most importantly, You made them happy.
Zeoticus: Because of that, we can't thank you enough.
Venelana: And so here we have some presents, some rewards for you, Arto Abyssgard, for being our best ally. I hope we can accompany for a long time to come
Sora: Me first, here is the card that'll help you gain full access to the Sitri clan's library and lab. Reading your blueprints of the simulation room amazed me in many ways, and I think with Sitri's knowledge resources, we can reach further.
Arto: I don't know what to say, Thank you so much for your generosity, I promise there will be more surprises in the future with our technology.
Sora: "Our"?
Arto: Yes, all of this knowledge and technology you saw in those blueprints are not mine alone, it's the effort through thousands of years of research of hundreds of thousands of scientists of the Department of Science and Magecraft of Abyssgard Legion. I am just the carrier of their legacy.
Sora: If so, I am eager to know more about your Legion, Arto. They seem to be full of surprises. Are they still around?
Arto: No, I am the last member of the Legion.
Sora: I am so sorry.
Arto: It's okay, Lord Sitri, it's all in the past, now I have a new, better life.
Zeoticus: Let's put that aside, this is our present for you, Arto.
He put a set of keys on the table
Arto: This is......
Venelana: .........That's right, sweetie, your very own house.
Arto: Goodness, I don't think I deserve this much.
Zeoticus: We insist, this is nothing. We will support you every way we can in the future, because you are one of ours, an honorable member of the Gremory clan.
Arto: Thank you, Thank you so much Lord Gremory. I'll do my best to live up to your expectations.
Venelana: We are looking forward to it.
Yelena: Here is the gift from both clans for you, Arto Abyssgard.
She gave Arto a black card. Arto's eyes widened seeing this.
Arto: This is....is.....a black debit card?
Sena: Yes, this is our gratitude to you for taking good care of our daughters and their peerages, and making them happy, strong and confident. We'll be counting on you in the time to come, okay?
Arto: Taking care of them is my happiness, my joy, my hobby, there is absolutely no need to......
Then he saw the ladies with dark aura over them, this made even the male in this room shrink
Venelana: Are you declining our gratitude?
Sena: Are you saying 'no'?
Yelena: Arto, are you doubting our kindness?
He look to Zeoticus and Sora and Sirzechs to see them nod constantly, like telling him to take it
Arto: Of....of course I will receive it with joy. Thank you so much for your hospitality, my ladies. I will take good care of your girls, no need to worry.
The atmosphere in the room went back to normal after Arto saying that
Venelana: We are glad you agree.
Serafall: Another matter, about Sona's marriage with you......
Arto: Huh? You knew?
Sora: Of course we do, our daughter is our top priority, she seems to be very fond of you, but she doesn't know how to express it like Rias or Akeno. So I suggest you be the active side in this matter.
Arto: Really? I didn't know that, I'll keep that in mind. *checks his phone* Is there anything else I should know about? I think Rias and Akeno are looking for me.
Sirzechs: Hmmmm..........There isn't any, go enjoy the party, you earned it.
Arto: Thank you for your hospitality and the gifts, I'll do my best to live up to your expectations.
Arto then make a bow before leaving the room
Sora: When are you going to tell him about Rias's marriage?
Sirzechs: Not today, today is his happy day when his effort paid off. I will not disturb it. Looking at Rias now, if she and her peerage keep developing under Arto's instruction, a Rating Game would be enough to end it all.
Venelana: We made a huge mistake when choosing her fiancé.
Sena: How did the Phenex get so much support from other nobles for this marriage?
Sora: Benefits, they promised lots and lots of benefits for the supporters, I received his invitation to join his side but I declined. Everyone would love to have a connection with the family of one of the 4 Satan.
Zeoticus: They all started pressing on us at the same time, by war and politics, they took some of our territories, killed many people under our care to make pressure on us. They even decide Rias's fate in the council.
Sirzechs: Even with 2 protest votes from me and Serafall was not enough to turn this down. The pressure went on and on, to the point they would isolate the Gremory clan if they didn't consent to this marriage: no more support, no more rights, no nothing.
Venelana: They even went as far as to kill any devils under our clan on sight. They even launched some attacks straight on our territory without any cause.
Sora: So you had to sacrifice your daughter to stop this?
Zeoticus: I know it is a stupid decision but I couldn't think of anything back then, Sirzechs couldn't fight for us, he is a Satan, he isn't allowed to show bias. Most of my peerage members have died protecting the people from those attacks, the only one left is Heinrich, my Bishop. I am so sorry, my daughter.
Yelena: Not only that, I think they are pulling the same trick on Grayfia, she is under a lot of pressure since she hasn't joined any peerage or married anyone. Her fate will be decided next month. They are gonna put her in Lord Phenex's harem.
Sena: Those bastards.....
Arto: I think I could help.
Everyone was stunned seeing Arto, holding a plate of food standing in front of them.
Notes:
And that's the end of simulation room arc. Next one will be Arto and his friends' journey to hell for vacation. So stay tuned for new chapter.
Chapter 11: The chill
Summary:
A chilling day of Arto and his friends before heading to hell for summer vacation
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
The Abyssgard is now standing in awe, with his mouth opened wide, Akeno is poking his cheek while giggling, Koneko is eating her regular bar of chocolate, Nami is having stars in her eyes looking at the scene before her.
Nami: Oh my goodness, look at it, it's beautiful, and I get to live here, this fabulous mansion. Arto, I can't believe you earned this, Love you!!!
Nami said as she hugged an Arto in awe, Rias then appeared behind them with Kiba and Robin, along with a big truck, carrying their stuff. Rias saw Arto, she moved to him, seeing his face, she started to wave her hand in front of his face, trying to snap him out.
Rias: Arto, Arto, wake up! Wake up!
Robin: I think he is not expecting this. I thought he was a noble in the past, he sure is used to this kind of luxury, yes?
Akeno: Nah, he lives in a castle in the lowest ring of hell, there was no such thing is luxury there, so he lived like a normal person there, so he's in awe like this is normal, fufufu~ *Keeps poking his cheek*
Rias: Koneko, snap him out.
Koneko: On it.
She said as she punched Arto in the stomach. Arto fell to the ground, snap out of his frozen state and looks at Koneko
Arto: That's painful, what was that for?
Koneko: For keeping everyone waiting, c'mon, open the door, you are holding the keys.
Arto: Oh.....Right.
He said as he opened the house door and explored the inside. As they walk inside the mansion everything appears before their eyes screaming luxury: from the light to the floor to the wall, everything is brand new. The kitchen has all the equipment fitting for a 5-star restaurant, the kitchen counter is shiny, clean and fragrant. The bathroom is wide, with all kinds of stuff like: big shower head, an enormous bathtub that could easily fit 6 to 8 people inside, a jacuzzi,.....Moving on the bedrooms, there are plenty, each one has a king-size bed (According to Rias, Arto doesn't know any), wide windows that has a great view of the outside, and of course, a giant wardrobe for the ladies to put whatever they bought in. Next is the living room, it's wide with many sets of sofas, sitting for big gatherings, and perfect for holding classes. A big TV and many glass doors lead to the mansion's yard, where a big swimming pool surrounded by beach chairs and barbecue equipment is. The yard around the pool has a roof that can be pulled in to get the sun rays and pulled out to prevent the rain. Lastly comes the basement, this is where the steam room and the artificial onsen is placed. That's basically it, Arto new mansion, where he and his girlfriends or whoever he allows will live from now on
Arto: I......I......don't know what to say....this is kind of too much for me, I have never seen this much expensive stuff in the same place like this.
Rias: As I read, Abyssgard was one of, if not the richest group in hell, how could you not have experienced something like this? I have told my father to tone it down, he was about to give you a castle. But you are still not used to this, I am surprised.
Arto: Yes, we were one of the richest, but all the money was invested in researching and fortifying our fortresses to fight the Abyss. We never have the need for high-class things. And remember, Abyssgard originated from slaves so we tend to think differently from other nobles even though we are one of them. The only time I experienced luxurious things was in the yearly meeting of the leaders of each group in hell, and I didn't like any of those meetings.
Robin: They kept mocking you, didn't they? What did they call you? 'Slave Knight'?
Arto: Yeah, those bastards don't know when to stop. I should have made them silent for good back then.
Rias: So you had a bad impression with noble devils? Does that affect your opinion about us, like me and Sona?
Arto: You guys are good, don't worry, I know exactly who mocked me and my Legion and who don't so I don't put all devil nobles in the same bag. In fact, there are some devil clans that helped us expand our influences in hell, I couldn't thank them enough.
Rias: I am glad. Now let us unpack our stuff and enjoy the new house.
Arto: Well, today we're moving so I'll cancel today's class, cause I know some, if not all of you didn't do the homework I gave you.
Everyone except Robin averted my gaze.
Arto: Knew it, the only hard-working person here is Robin, you deserve a reward. But it's okay, remember to finish it after we're done setting up for our new house.
Everyone: Yes.
As everyone scattered to unpack their stuff for the new house, Rias call Arto back
Rias: Arto? Before we move on, I have something to give you.
Arto: What is it?
Rias then snaps her finger, summoned something I didn't expect, his old armor, now good as new, just like the first time he wear it, all the details are restored, the plates of the armor is now polished but still maintain his favorite dark tone to it, all the fabric is renewed, he can't believe in his eyes how good this armor is now, He have never seen his armor in this state for 3000 years, and now it's here, better than ever. And that's not all, coming with the armor is new weapons: a knife, a broadsword and a greatsword
Rias: I order them to make it exactly like the traditional swords used by the Abyssgards, but I don't know which kind you used more often so I made both, so....
Before she could say any word, Arto pulled her into a hug, squeezes tightly in his arm
Arto: Thank you, thank you, Rias. I can't believe you went this far just for me, look at all these weapons, it's been ages since the last time I saw it in this condition. I miss them so much, even though I am doing other duties than fighting now, but this will be handy in many situations. I really appreciate it. You are the best, Rias.
Rias: I know, I need to have my own way to show my gratitude to you, after all you have done for me and my peerage, this is nothing.......Besides, you look really cool in that armor, but I can only see it in your dream, so I decided to take it to real life by secretly repaired your old armor while you was focusing on the simulation room project. Can you put it on for me? I wanna see it, just like the first day we met.
Arto: Of course, anything for you, my princess.
He said as he check the armor, to see some symbols is still there, a smile appeared on his face
Arto: They even kept these symbols back.
Rias: I ordered them to, they didn't know the meaning of them but I know this's a spell that helps you put on this armor immediately. Now go on, don't leave your princess waiting.
Arto: Right.
He said as the armor was donned on his body by magic right away. After he is done, he slowly approaches her and picks her up like a bride and gets his hooded face closer to her, making her blush as she wraps her arms around his neck.
Arto: How do you like it, my crimson princess?
Rias: Like it? I love it, my prince.
She said as she got closer into the hood, to find his face inside, they then shared a deep kiss inside Arto's hood.
After the kiss with Rias, Arto was tackled to the ground by his beloved 'Daughter' Akeno.
Akeno: So that's why 2 were so far behind, being lovey-dovey behind my back. But to be honest, your armor looks so cool, I love it.
She said as she removed his hood.
Akeno: But I like this better *Kisses his lips*.
Robin: What are you doing? Come on and unpack your stuff. You 3 like listening to my lecture that much huh?
Arto/Rias/Akeno: No,no, we're going. Sorry, mom.
Robin: Good, now go set up your room, I'll make dinner for you all.
Arto/Rias/Akeno: YESSS!
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Robin in the kitchen cooking)
Arto comes downstairs to see Robin is cooking, the wonderful aroma he is smelling right now must be curry. He slowly approaches her from behind..........
Robin: It's not gonna work, why don't you hug me instead of doing this meaningless thing?
Arto: Next time, I'll catch you by surprise, mom.......
He said as he hugged her around her waist from behind.
Robin: You'll need to try harder than that, my love.
Arto: ..........I'll try *Kiss her cheeks*
Robin: *Turns around* Wrong spot *points at her lips*
Arto: It's just a way to make you turn back to me, my love
They then share a deep kiss, it only stopped when they smell the pot burning. After that, they had to make the curry again, which delayed the dinner by an hour. Luckily, Akeno, Rias, and Nami were also done unpacking by the time the second pot of curry pot was done.
Rias: This is so good, thank you Robin.
Nami: I don't know you can cook, not to mention cooking delicious dishes like this.
Akeno: That's our Mommy.
Arto: Well, it's my turn to do the dishes tonight, so you girls.......
Robin: .....will be doing your homework given by Arto like the good girls you are. Of course I'll be the one who supervises you, leaving that mission to Arto is no good. You can just act cutely to make him help you, but don't you dare think you can pull that trick on me. If you don't finish 40% of your homework tonight, you'll be banned from sleeping with me and Arto. Did I make myself clear?
Rias/Akeno/Nami: But mom.....
Robin: Did I make myself clear!?
Rias/Akeno/Nami: Yes mom...
Arto: Good luck slacking off, girls, your mother's eyes and ears are everywhere.
He said as he went to the kitchen to do the dishes. The girls head upstairs to their room and start doing their homework under Robin's watch, as they are heading upstairs, they look at Arto with pleading eyes, like telling him to help them.
Robin: Don't even think about it, Arto.
Hearing that, Arto shakes his head with the girls, like saying 'You're on your own this time'. After Arto finishes doing the dishes, he goes to sit in the living room and pull a book out of his magical storage and start reading. After a while, Robin joins him, she is now laying her head on his chest, they are reading the book together in harmony until.......
Robin: Rias...What do you think you're doing?.......Get back to your desk ........ Akeno ....... What are you doing with the camera?..........Nami, don't even try to 'Random bullshit go', I'll examine your result.
Arto: There is no need to...........
Robin: You just love the girls too much, to the point you're starting to do stuff for them, from their homework to their training. I will not allow that, as a teacher and as a mother, okay?
Arto: I know, I'm sorry, it's kinda painful to see them get hurt, I know it's the way for them to grow, but........
Robin: I get it, you rarely have anyone close to you in your past life, so you want to protect what you have, I know that, but we can't protect them forever, they need to grow, so next time........
Arto: I know, thank you for pointing that out for me, I love you for that, you don't hesitate to tell me what I did wrong, don't change, Robin, don't you ever change,..........
Robin: I'm glad, so, what are you going to do after this? What is your next project?
Arto: I think I'll make some external mana reserve for you, me and Nami. Our mana reserves are not as large as Rias's or Akeno's, so when things get dire, we need enough mana supply to fend for ourselves.
Robin: I see, that's a good idea, I can only use all of my power in your dream, where mana is healing with insane speed. So how are you going to make it?
Arto: I'll make a small device that draws mana from nature, filter it like how our body does and turn them into mana we can use.
Robin: Do you need any special items to make it? You find it for you.
Arto: There is no need, I have all I require from Lord Sitri supply, all I want now is some good rest, then I'll get right into the project.
Robin: Rest as much as you like. If you need anything, just tell me, I'll do my best to help you.
Arto: I'll keep that in mind, so where were we?
Robin: Well, we are done with that page, you can turn now......Nami, that one is wrong......Rias, you can just call us instead of Sona if you need help......Akeno, I love you but don't take off your clothes, Arto can't see what I am seeing now, he has access to the system doesn't mean he's always online, so put your clothes on.....
Arto: I love this life, it's like a reward to me...... *Get into the system* You girls are so cute. I love you all.
Robin: We love you too, Arto. Now, about the book.......
(Timeskips: Brought to you by Arto and Robin reading book while cuddle into each other)
Robin: Hmm.....Hmm.....Good job, you girls have all done your homework, go take a shower, you can sleep with us tonight if you want.
As Robin said that, they can hear some loud footsteps from upstairs
Arto: Would you look at the time, it's about time we go to bed. Where do you want to sleep tonight, Honey?
Robin: You gotta ask? But drop me by my room first, I need a shower too.
Arto: Got it.
He picks Robin up like a bride and takes her to her bedroom. She said goodbye to Arto by a kiss before heading in. After that, Arto goes to his room, gets more pillows and blankets for the girls, sets up the bed and waits for what to come. After a while of waiting, about half an hour, the door of his room flies open, revealing Rias, Akeno, Robin and Nami in their white towels.
Nami: That's refreshing, the big shower head here is incredible.
Akeno: I can't believe how much high-quality shampoos and shower gels are in the bathroom.......
Robin: And the perfumes too, they are all very fragrant, Lady Gremory really knows what a woman would want for her bathroom.
Rias: I know, right, my mother is one of a kind.
Arto: Now, now, let's get to bed, tomorrow you'll have a training schedule in the simulation room. I'll score on your performance, so you'd better prepare yourself.
Nami: Can I train with you guys tomorrow?
Arto: Of course, I have added your name to the team tomorrow, Robin also.
Robin: I'll do my best to help everyone.
Akeno: Before we sleep, can we have a bedtime story, Mommy Robin?
Robin: Fufufu~ Of course my girls, get yourselves on the bed~
Rias: Finally, the gentle mother Robin has returned.
Nami: Yeah, Mommy's scary when she is serious.
The groups then position themselves on the bed in order: Rias, Arto, Akeno, Robin and Nami. Rias and Akeno are hugging either side of Arto while Nami is hugging Robin as she tells her story to everyone. As the story goes on, Rias and Akeno started to take off their towel before wrapping their arms around Arto again. After a good while, the story ended, everyone but Arto and Robin are fast asleep, Robin slowly take off her towel too before looking to Arto
Robin: How was the story?
Arto: Fantastic, like always, I am surprised that the students don't fell asleep on your stories.
Robin: I just tell them different ones from these, ones that keep them awake. Now, let's sleep, dear~
They then share a light kiss before Arto goes to take care of Akeno and Rias while Robin takes care of Nami, they tuck the girls in the bed before going to sleep as well, ending a chilling day.
(Timeskips: Brought to you by the family sleeping together)
Arto is now monitoring the simulation room, Sona and her peerage are watching Rias and her peerage training in the room, Nami and Robin are also there with them. They are amazed by how skillful Robin is with her spell, the way she processes information is unparalleled, Rias is also receiving instruction from her while commanding her troops fighting. Nami's weather controlling abilities are being put into use as well, her raining clouds combined with Rias destruction power make fatal rain drops that pierce through monster's skin, her wind is boosting Kiba, Koneko and Akeno speed tremendously. Arto puts on a content but serious face while watching Rias's peerage training. After they are done, they walk out of the room with bruises all over their bodies, they are sweating heavily after the training.
Robin: That's how you process information quickly in dire situations. It'll be very necessary in the future, not just in war, but in anything you do.
Rias: Thank you so much, I wish to learn more from you, Robin.
Kiba: Nami, that speed boost was incredible, those monster's eyes were spinning like crazy as we move.
Nami: Hehehe, you're welcome, Kiba, you did well too, those sword fights were finesse, both quick and strong. Akeno, I can't believe you can dance so gracefully yet so deadly among monsters like that. Koneko too, you are both fast as a Knight and strong as a Rook at the same time. Everyone is so incredible.
Arto: Indeed, you guys have improved a lot in the last few months, I am happy that everyone is getting stronger both physically and mentally, but there are still things to improve, here are your feedbacks, read them closely, improve the weaknesses and fix the mistakes, got it?
Rias's peerage: Got it.
Arto: Good, now go get some rest, I have prepared some healing drinks and snacks upstairs. Consuming them will help you heal your wound, but don't eat too much, save some for Sona's peerage.
Akeno: No promises, your food is really delicious after all, it's hard to stop after eating one.
Koneko: You'll have to make more for Sona and her peerage.
Robin: Don't worry, I'll keep them in check, Arto.
Nami: Wait, they're heading in all by themselves, do they need any help, I can keep going.
Arto: Nah, you go with everyone and rest, I'll head in myself to help them.
Sona: Really? We get to fight with you? *Arto nods*
Tsubaki: Then this is our chance to see your power for real, everything I know was heard from Akeno and Rias.
Tomoe: Arto, if you are a piece in a peerage, what piece will you be?
Arto: I'm not sure, I think I am suitable to be a Knight.......
Rias:........a Mutated Knight or a Queen I would say, Arto isn't just strong with speed like a Knight and with strength like a Rook....
Sona: ....but also with magic like a Bishop. So yeah, a Mutated Knight or a Queen would be suitable for you.
Arto: I see, well, let's head into the training ground, I'll show you how an Abyssgard Knight works.
Sona's peerage: Right.
(Timeskips: Brought to you by chibi Sona looking at Arto's picture while blushing)
Rias's peerage is now looking into the simulation room in awe
Rias: He is instructing everyone while fighting.
Akeno: I don't know who is the leader anymore.
Kiba: His sword art is out of this world.
Koneko: And he said my fist was strong, he just pulled that monster's brain out with bare hands.
Nami: It's like he has eyes behind his back. They couldn't catch him off-guard.
Robin: Arto can fight with weapons and magic at the same time. One hand performs extraordinary sword art, the other hand casts accurate spells at the right moment. He is a perfect warrior.
The door then open, Arto and Sona's peerage walked out, they have some bruises and cuts on their body, mostly Sona's peerage, they are panting heavily while sitting on the ground.
Arto: Did you get all that?
Sona: Most of it, thank you for pointing it out for me.
Tsubaki: I didn't know you were so good with swords, your display today truly opened my eyes.
Tomoe: You were amazing, Arto, those beasts couldn't lay a finger on you, I wanna be a Knight like you.
Arto: You totally can, I am here to give you directions, always.
Tomoe: Yayyyyy *Hugs him*
Arto: Tsubasa, you did well today too, those weight increasing spells really worked, no?
Tsubasa: Yeah, I can really feel the weight while fighting, but it is really working, I can see myself getting stronger.
Arto: Good, now to the Bishops, you need to react faster next time, your teammates need you, got it?
Reya/Momo: Got it.
Arto: Overall, you did pretty well, I must say, you're getting stronger by the day, Robin, give them the detailed feedback, I want to see improvement next time.
Robin: At once.
Arto: Now that's all for today's training, go enjoy yourselves upstairs with drinks and snacks, if there's any left. *Looks at Rias and her peerage*
He said as Rias's peerage averted his gaze.
Arto: You couldn't stop them, Robin?
Robin: Sorry, they were very delicious.
Nami: We are so sorry there isn't any left, we just couldn't stop.
Arto: *sighs* Hahaha~ It's alright, Sona, take the girl to the bathroom in my house through that door and get them clean, I'll make some snacks for you.
Sona's peerage: Thank you Arto.
They said as they head to the door that is connected to Arto's house, he then turns back to the remaining group.
Arto: And you are going to help me with the snack, you have eaten too much.
Everyone: Yes, sorry.
Arto lightly smiles and takes accompany them upstair to make snacks
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a bathroom with a 'Do not disturb' sign on it)
Sona: That's refreshing, Arto even put a healing spell in the shower head, I love him.......Huh?
Tsubasa: Ohhhhh~ Someone is in love~
Momo: There is no need to worry, we'll keep it a secret for you, feel free to talk about him as you like.
Tsubaki: For your information, Arto defeated our President in a chess game, no, he destroyed her.
Reya: Why didn't you tell us you have Arto as your fiancé? He is smart, strong, handsome, gentle, and kind. He's perfect for you.
Tomoe: Ehh? I thought I had a chance with him. You claimed him for yourself already?
Tsubaki: She's not alone, Rias, Akeno, and even Miss Robin are also in a relationship with him
Tsubasa: It'll be a tough fight against those 3, they have such dynamite bodies.
Momo: Yeah, we need to put some nutrition in your lacking assets, to fight them *pokes at Sona's chest*
Reya: If you have problems fighting this war, we might have to step in to help
Sona: HEY! Arto is an upstanding man, he doesn't care about chest sizes.
Tomoe: Really?
Tsubaki: It's true, Arto never looks at a girl's chest while talking to them. I have seen it for myself, he always look straight into my eyes
Reya: Wow, that's rare to see a man like that, now there's more reason to fight. We are going to support you all we can.
Momo: It'll be a tough fight, but you have us by your side....
Tomoe: they only have: Rias,........Akeno, ..... and ...... and...... Miss Robin, the goddess of our school, even I fell for her.
Tsubasa: Yeah, she is one gorgeous woman, smart, beautiful and....... fragrant. Her voice is angelic, I can never get tired of her stories.
Tsubaki: Alright everyone, they are waiting for us with the snacks, c'mon.
Sona's peerage head back to the ORC clubroom and what they see astonished them
Arto: Enjoy, everyone.
Tomoe: This looks so delicious, thank you Arto.
Sona: Wait, you made all these from scratch? *Arto nods* How could you make these in just 30 minutes?
Arto: Abyssgard specialty, time dilation technology. I used the oven and fridge that have time expanding functions to make these. So let's start our feast.
Sona's peerage: Yeahh!
They said as they dug in the delicious snacks Arto made. And the rest of the day goes by in harmony and joy.
Notes:
Well, that's the end of the chilling chapter, next chapter will be Arto's journey to the Underworld
Chapter 12: The journey
Summary:
Arto's journey to the Underworld for summer vacation and a certain affair
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
A month has passed since the simulation room first official run, everyone is doing their best in the simulation room, 3 times a week they train in the room with the monsters getting stronger each time, sometimes they stuck at a stage for a whole week before getting the hang of the battle, another reason they have more problems is that now Nami, Robin, and I usually stand out of the battles, we have private training session where there are 3 of us, to make the most space for all the individual to develop. We usually watch them fight, give them feedback and critique their performances. Lucky for us, no one has a big ego so they usually take the comments from us with progressive attitude, ready to fix what they are weak at.
Arto: Good job everyone, today the combined squad did the job incredibly well. I see that you have taken my advice into consideration, Kiba, Koneko, Tomoe, Tsubasa?
Kiba: Thank you so much, that advice was all I needed. I see my problems but I don't know how to deal with them.
Tomoe: Arto, see, see? I am getting taken by surprise less and less, you are the best teacher Arto!! *hugs me*
Tsubasa: Indeed, those fighting techniques you taught me and Koneko were really handy. I am kinda getting used to the 100kg weight increase now, should I increase it?
Arto: Just wait a little, first, take the spell off, practice with it for a while, you gotta catch up to your speed before increasing it again.
Tsubasa: Got it.
Arto: Koneko? Come here, let me give you a head pat. You did really well today, covering your team, destroying giant monsters and getting better at defensive spells, you deserve a reward. Come here, my little kitty.
Koneko has a light pink blush on her face as she approach me, I lightly pat her head, this is the time I realize, her hair is really smooth and soft, it make me kinda don't want to lift my hand from her head, and it doesn't look like she's gonna push my hand out, So I keep patting her head in joy.
Robin: You 2 are getting better at processing information on the battlefield, I am very proud, you really take my instruction seriously. Rias, those explosive eyes were really good, I'll give you that, not just for information gathering but also for killing the enemy. Sona, the way you detect those invisible enemies by sensing the disturbance in the water in the air really saves the team from being assaulted from behind, good job you two.
Rias: Thank you so much, miss Robin. I'll do even better next time.
Sona: Yeah, there are so many things we can learn from you, Miss Robin.
Robin: I still have a lot of things to teach you two.
Nami: Reya, Momo, you two are amazing in there, your reaction time is a lot faster now, and you know exactly what to use and when to use to support your team, the casting times of your spell have been reduced drastically, keep going forward.
Reya: Thank you so much for your compliments, Nami.
Momo: Your feedback and instructions for us really help us improve ourselves.
Arto: Now, to our 2 MVPs.
I said as I approached and gave Akeno and Tsubaki a group hug, making both of them blush.
Arto: You two did flawlessly back there, I love the way you two covered each other in the battle, your combination back there was unstoppable, you both did really well with both magics and naginatas, the final boss was killed in no time thanked to you two teaming up, I have no negative feedbacks for you two today. Congratulations!
Akeno: Aww~ I know I am your strong girl, I have learned a lot from you. You are the best teacher I have *places a kiss on my cheek*
Tsubaki: Indeed, you are the one who teaches us how to use magic spells alongside close-quarter weapons. I am glad we have put everything you taught us into use this time.
Arto: Thank you for that, what do you want for your rewards?
Akeno and Tsubaki look at each other and nod, Akeno then said.
Akeno: We want you to accompany us to the Underworld this summer vacation.
Rias: Yes, you can cancel all your plans this summer vacation and come with us to the Underworld, you'll be staying with my family.
Sona: Hey, not just your family, he's visiting Sitri's domain too. Right, Arto?
Arto: Yeah, I am eager to know what the Underworld looks like in this world. Are you coming with us, Robin, Nami?
Robin: Of course I am coming, I wanna talk to Lady Venelana, there are topics we were discussing when she visited us for the official run.
Nami: I am coming too, obviously, it's a rare experience to explore hell without dying, and I don't want to be home alone.
Arto: Then it's settled, I'll leave the external mana storage project for when I return from the trip to the Underworld. How are we going to get there anyway?
Rias: We're going to my home by train, it'll be a long trip, about 20 hours, so make sure to bring some books to read or some games to play. Are you coming with us, Sona?
Sona: Yes, I'd love to, your family's train arrived through my family's domain first before yours so I'll be glad to join you.
Arto: Great, so when do we start moving?
Rias: A week from now, we can chill in the meantime, the semester test has already passed, there isn't much left to do before we head to my home.
Sona: Arto, Can we still train in the simulation room while we are in hell? I want to have something to do instead of just lying lazily at home.
Arto: Of course you still can, I've put a sigil here in this simulation room, so that you can come back here whenever you like.
Sona: Thank you, Arto.
Arto: Now, everyone, get yourself clean, it's almost lunch time, I'll take the cooking duty today.
Everyone: Yeahhhhh!
They said as they came to my house to take a shower before lunch.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the ladies taking a bath together)
Everyone is now enjoying their lunch made by Arto. They seem to be really happy and relieved after one hard training session in the morning.
Rias: Arto's cooking is just the best. I am surprised how much you have improved from the last time you cooked.
Arto: Gotta thank your mother for that. Her cooking recipes are just amazing, that cooking book you brought to me back then was the beginning of it all.
Akeno: Indeed, you make breakfast for us everyday from then on, I can't have another breakfast anymore. Back when you were busy with the simulation room, I usually didn't eat breakfast. Do you know how hungry I was back then?
Arto: I am sorry, my love, I didn't know how much you miss my food. *Kiss her forehead*
And the meal went on, everyone was enjoying what I made before the magic lesson at my house's living room in the afternoon.
Arto: Okay everyone, open your textbook to page.............
(TImeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto pointing at the black board with a ruler)
The day has finally come, the day of our journey to the Underworld. We are now standing at the training station, heading to hell with Rias, Sona and their peerages. The train is there, waiting for us. As we walk inside the train, the interior is fairly nice, it has the 19th century vibe to it, I can feel the warmth of it.
Rias: Now, let us head in, it'll be a long trip.
Everyone: Right.
We take our seats on the train. I sit next to Rias, opposite us are Akeno and Robin. Rias rests her head on my shoulder and starts to sleep, Akeno does the same with Robin. Robin and I look at each other, put on a smile because of the cuteness of the sleeping girls. We both place a kiss on their head before taking out the books and start reading. As I was reading, Tsubaki calls me
Tsubaki: Arto, can I ask you some questions from yesterday's lesson?
Sona: I have some questions too.
Momo: Me three.
Reya: Me four.
Arto: Alright, alright, I'll broadcast for you girls, okay? Get your notebook out, we are starting now.
And the lesson began.............
After a good 3 hours, all the questions have been answered, everyone is kind of tired after the lesson and they are now sleeping soundly, even Robin is sleeping now. The only person who is awake now is me. I closed my book, closed my eyes and let my dream take me away, back to the faint good memories I had in my past life.
Flashback
????: Guh~ That was a fine performance you displayed back there, Arto.
Arto: Thanks, [UNKNOWN]. You did well too.
???: You can hold yourself against death is kind of impressive, I'll give you that. Your fighting skill is one of a kind.
Arto: Guess I could thank my creator for that, for making me this way.
???: No thanks should be given to that bastard, he made you into a living weapon, took away everything you deserve to have, in order to take over the supernatural world.
Arto: But now he's dead. His ambition died that day with my 'Father'. Now, I have nothing left.
???: You have me, remember? I'll be there for you if there's no one there for you. I promise you that, now I am gonna keep it. Now follow me!
Arto: Where?
???: A new tavern, good wine and music, you'll love it. C'mon
Arto: Alright, alright, Dad. I need to forget something anyway.
???: A bottle of red wine, 2 glasses please. C'mon Arto, drink.
Arto: I've never drunk any wine in my life.
???: Everyone has their first time, now, cheers.
...........
???: Ohh, the light is out, it looks like the music is coming. Arto, take a look at the stage
Arto: .............................
???:.......Hey, hey, Arto, you alright?
Arto: Yes, yes, I am alright. It just..........just.............beautiful.
???: Damn, for the first time I've seen you blush, that girl really took your heart, didn't she?..........
Arto: I am?
???: It's rare to see you display some emotions, how are you feeling now?
Arto: My face.......hot..........heart rate.......high.............I don't want to take my eyes off her. What's happening to me?................
???: You seem to like her, young man..............
End of flashback
Train's speaker: We are arriving at Sitri's domain, again, We are arriving at Sitri's domain.
I slowly stirred awake because of the sound of the train. I look to my side to see Rias is still sleeping, laying her head on my shoulder. I slowly move her aside to stand up. I see Sona and her peerage coming off the train. I approach them to see them off.
Arto: You girls are coming down here?
Tsubaki: Yeah, thank you for teaching us this whole time, Arto, I really appreciate it.
Sona: Arto, remember to visit our domain, okay? My parents are really eager to see you again.
Arto: I will, now come here.
I open my arm to hug them, they take turns to hug me. To Sona's turn I remember what Lord Sitri said, I place a kiss on her cheek, make her blush profusely.
Arto: I'll see you later, my finacée.
Momo: Tsubasa, hold the President, she cannot stand anymore.
Tsubasa: On it.
The last one is Tsubaki, she comes into my embrace to hug me. And to my surprise, she places a kiss on my cheek, she then talks to me with her blushing face
Tsubaki: Remember to visit us, alright?
I kiss her on her cheek also, make her blush even more.
Arto: I will, don't worry.
After the goodbye, I go back to my seat beside Rias, sigh in relief before taking out my books and reading them while the girls are sleeping. After another 3 hours, I take a look out the window and see
Damn, this is wide, whose domain it is, I wonder?
Rias: That's Gremory's domain, Arto.
Arto: Huh? Really?
Rias: Yeah, it's as wide as Japan. And you get to have your own real estate here since you are our ally, not to mention a very valuable ally. You get to choose which you want though.
Arto: That's quite generous of you, Rias, I'll take that into consideration.
Train's speaker: We are arriving at Gremory's domain, again, We are arriving at Gremory's domain.
Rias: Looks like we are here, let's wake everyone up.
Arto: Right.
We said we started to wake everyone up. Rias will wake Nami, Koneko and Kiba up while I take care of Robin and Akeno.
Arto: Robin, Akeno, wakey, wakey, we are almost there.
Robin: I'm here.
Akeno: 5 more minutes~
Arto: I have no choice now.
I said as I pick her up like a bride
Akeno: Oh, I don't mind this at all, *wrap her arms around my neck* careful, okay? Your little girl is very fragile.
Arto: I know *Kiss*
Koneko: Can you 2 stop?
Akeno: Nope *kiss*, you can't stop a couple madly in love like us.
Robin: Akeno?
Akeno: Yes, mom.
She said as she got down from my arms.
Nami: You live here?
Rias: Yes, and don't worry, since you are our ally, you get your own real estate in the future
Nami jump at Rias with stars in her eyes
Nami: Really? How much?
Rias: Much.
Nami: I love you, Rias! Love you so much
Nami said as she kissed Rias.
Rias: Now, now, we're arriving at my home so behave, alright?
Everyone: Right.
We get down the train station and follow Rias to her home. Which is weirdly large in my opinion, I bet there are places in the house that Rias have never been to. The house has the size of a town, with multiple gardens, the mansion lies in the center of them all.
As we were heading in, the door opened, revealing about 50 maids and butlers standing in 2 lines greeting us.
Arto: Is this necessary?
Akeno: Leave them be, they are just doing their duty, Arto
Rias: And don't worry, all the servants here are well paid, we don't treat them poorly like you think.
Arto: Well, then I am glad.
Servants: Welcome home Lady Rias.
Rias: Let's head in, guys.
She said as we headed into the mansion, seeing people bowing to me like this still gave me a faint uncomfortable feeling. As we were walking, we encountered Millicas who was playing in the hall with his mother close behind him. As he saw Rias, she immediately jumped at her with a hug.
Millicas: Aunty, you have returned. You even brought your friends and your boyfriend home, gran gran will be glad.
Rias: Hello, Millicas, it's only been a month, you don't need to react that way.
Millicas: But I miss you, I want you to stay with me forever.
Rias: You know I have my duties, Millicas, I can't be here forever.
Millicas: Awwwww
He said as he let go of Rias and went to me
Millicas: Uncle Arto, uncle Arto, when will you marry Aunty Rias?
Arto: I don't know, not in the near future, I guess. We still need time to know each other better before making the final decision.
Millicas: But if you two get married, will you live here?
Arto: Maybe, this place is beautiful, unlike what I expect about hell, so I might move here to live in the future.
Millicas: Yayy, then I will support your relationship, so that Aunty Rias will stay with me.
Yelena then pick the boy up from behind
Yelena: Millicas, you shouldn't interfere with other people's personal matters. What have I taught you?
Millicas: Sorry, Mommy.
Robin and Nami then approach Millicas.
Robin: Millicas, do you remember who we are?
Nami: You do, right, young man?
Millicas: Aunty Robin, Aunty Nami!
Robin: Correct, now come here with Aunty Robin.
She said as she take the boy from his mother into her arms
Nami: We'll take care of the boy, get yourself some rest, Yelena. Ohh, you are so cute Millicas. *tickles*
Millicas: Hahaha.....Please, stop it.........it's tickle..........hahaha.
Yelena: Thank you 2. Well, let us head to the main room, where Lady Gremory is waiting for us.
Arto: Agreed.
I said as we went to the living room, where Lady Venelana was enjoying some tea. When she saw us she immediately stood up and gracefully walked to us with a beautiful smile.
Venelana: Welcome home, Rias. Greetings to you as well.
Everyone: Good day to you, Lady Venelana.
Venelana: Fufufu~ Looks like everyone is hungry after the long journey. We have prepared a great feast for you, let us go to the dining room.
We then head to the largest dining room I have ever seen in my life, this one is as large as an apartment, combined with the huge dining table that can fit 70 people easily on it, astonishes me a lot. In the dining room, I can see Lord Zeoticus is reading the newspaper while drinking his tea.
Zeoticus: Ah, you're finally home, Rias.
Rias: Good day to you, father. We are home for the summer vacation.
Zeoticus: I hope you'll enjoy your time here everyone. Now, let us have a feast on your return.
He said as he snapped his fingers, from the opened door, foods, plates and silver wares were brought into the dining room by the servants, they were quickly distributed to each of us. In no time, the table is full of delicious food, their fragrances hit my nose, telling me to dig in right the way. At the same time, Lady Venelana also headed into the dining room with a beautiful smile, she had a smell of food on her, and it seemed like she was in the kitchen supervising or cooking even.
Venelana: I hope you enjoy the meal we prepared for you today.
Arto: I dare say I would love them very much Lady Venelana, these dishes came straight out of your book 'Dishes for your loved ones', something that I use a lot while cooking for everyone here.
Venelana: Really, Arto?
Robin: Really, Lady Venelana, he talks about how great of a cook you are whenever he makes us breakfast.
Akeno: He even has a single compartment on his bookshelf for your cooking books and their notes.
Rias: And it all started when he read a cookbook of yours that I brought back for him from the library
Lady Venelana then comes and give me a hug
Venelana: That's so sweet of you. I didn't know you use my recipes to cook for the girls.
Arto: But I did, mother's cooking is the best, and it wasn't hard to make, especially the ingredients, not hard to find at all, but the flavor was one of a kind, you really are a great cook, Lady Venelana. Have you ever thought about publishing your cookbooks?
Venelana: I have, but I don't want to, I wanna keep these dishes for my family. I kinda don't want people to know about it. But you using them is fine, you'll soon be a part of this family anyway, fufufu~........... Alright, enough bantering, dig in everyone.
We then started eating. As I was eating, Lord Zeoticus asked me
Zeoticus: Arto, how do you like your new house?
Arto: It's wonderful, Lord Zeoticus, I love everything about the house, all the equipment, all the rooms, the views, the pool, the onsen,.......... I am still amazed by your design.
Zeoticus: So you like it simple, I see? So Rias was right when she told me to tone it down, I was about to build you a castle. So I changed to a more modern design and it looks like it did the trick perfectly. Everyone seems to like it and it's cheaper than building a castle.
Arto: You design our house? That's great, I didn't know you are a professional designer
Zeoticus: I am no professional, it's just a hobby of mine and I am glad you all liked it.
Arto: And I must thank Lady Venelana too. The girls love the shampoos, the bathing gels, the lotions and perfumes you prepared for us. All in all, it was an astounding experience.
Venelana: Of course they would love them, those are the products of the highest quality, I will bring you new ones when the old ones run out. I know what a woman needs in her bathroom.
Arto: Thank you so much, Lady Venelana. I wanna ask you, Lord Zeoticus: How do you like the simulation room?
Zeoticus: You gotta ask? It's splendid, everything was just wonderful. I have received reports from the scientists and they are all amazed by the quality of the simulation, extremely close to reality. The research team of ours have been using the room ever since it's completed to test out new crops and the result is getting better by the day. This simulation room of yours really saves us a lot of money on practical testing. It's really a good decision investing in your project, Arto. So tell me, what is your next one?
Arto: The next thing I am going to make is more on personal matters, it's the external mana storage. Robin, Nami, and I all have little mana reserve compared to you, so I need to make some device to absorb and store mana for future uses.
Zeoticus: I see, is there anything I can do to help?
Arto: There isn't Lord Zeoticus, I have all the resources I need with me now, all I need is some time. Talking about time, I am going to add a new function to the simulation room that is time dilation and I need some help from you and Lord Sitri.
Zeoticus: Interesting, does this function help extend time within the room, like one day outside equals one week inside?
Arto: Indeed, this function combined with the simulation will quicken the experimenting process, reduce the time for each experiment, something that money can't buy.
Zeoticus: That's just wonderful, can you really pull that off?
Arto: I can, but I still need some materials that are necessary for this project but I don't know where to find or too expensive for me to buy, so I need your help in this, Lord Zeoticus. *Hand him some documents*
Zeoticus: *Looks at the papers* Very interesting, I'll have a discussion with Sora about this. If this project is a success, training troops, growing crops, manufacturing products,..... will save us an enormous amount of time,............
Zeoticus/Arto: ..........something money can't buy.
We both burst out laughing
Zeoticus: I'll trust you with this project, young man, we'll take care of the materials. I assumed this also comes from.......
Arto: Yes, the Science and Magecraft Department of the Abyssgard Legion, I have the blueprints ready, I'll send them to you after this feast.
Zeoticus: I am looking forward to it, Arto. Now I have bothered you enough, enjoy your meal.
Arto: Thank you, Lord Zeoticus.
And the meal goes on in harmony, Lady Venelana has taken a liking to Robin, they have been talking to each other the whole meal. Rias and Nami are getting closer and closer by the day, their banterings are very cute, I must say.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the food plates on the table running out)
As we finish eating, the maids head in and clean the table for us. We are now enjoying the refreshing dessert.
Arto: This is so good~. I love these desserts. Can I have these recipes, Lady Venelana?
Venelana: Of course you can, I will get them for you when you return.
Arto: From where?
Venelana: Have you forgotten?
Flashback
Arto: I think I could help
Everyone was stunned seeing Arto, holding a plate of food standing in front of them.
Sora: When did you get in here?
Arto: Just a moment ago, I heard the story, and I think I can get Yelena's sister out of this. About Rias, now I know why you brought her to the human realm. To delay this process, yes?
Zeoticus: Yes, we have discussed this matter with them, they agree that they will wait until Rias finishes her highschool, but through time, those bastards are getting more impatient, they are forcing us to cut this short.
Sirzechs: But we still have time until that day comes, that's why we are so happy that you're making her stronger, so that when that day comes, a fight between their peerages will give her hope to get out of this. Seeing their development under your care, I dare say by next year, they will be ready.
Arto: Will it be that easy? Will they just accept the challenge?
Sirzechs: I know they will, those that started this have big ego, high arrogance, this will be done by a few taunts.
Arto: I see, another matter, who is the one she's forced to marry?
Zeoticus: His name is Riser Phenex, he is the third son of Razer Phenex, a self-righteous, arrogant douchebag like his father.
Arto: Phenex, so fire and self-healing ability?
Venelana: Indeed, they are also the clan that make the phoenix tears, the ultimate healing potion.
Arto: Got it. Now back to our matter, Grayfia, can't she fight her own way out of this?
Yelena: She tried, but Razer declined her challenge. He knows he can't defeat her, she is one of the strongest devils after all.
Arto: An arrogant coward, first time I see someone like that, but he's still kinda smart. Why fight when you have no chance to win? Then how about we give him a chance to win?
Sena: Elaborate, Arto.
Arto: I'll fight in her place, to gain her freedom.
Everyone's eyes widen hearing this
Serafall: Can you really do it, Arto?
Sora: No offense, but he is a high class devil, not to mention the strongest in his clan, this is too risky.
Arto: That's the thing, risk, we have high risk of losing, that's the way we get him to agree to this challenge, we have increased the winning chance from zero to.......more than zero.That's enough for me.
Yelena: I can't let this happen, how can I trust you that you can save my sister?
Sirzechs: You can.
Yelena: Huh?
Serafall: The chance of winning is more than zero, that means there is still hope for us, considering Arto's power.
Sirzechs: Indeed, when I first met him, I could see his power, he can complete this mission.
Yelena: But I can't risk my sister's happiness in this, I'll fight for her freedom on my own
Zeoticus: Do you remember the last time you tried to do so?
Yelena: He declined my challenge.
Venelana: That's the thing, he will not accept a challenge if his victory is not guaranteed.
Sora: So bringing a "weaker" opponent will do.
Sena: A "weaker" opponent he knows very little about
Arto: There will be more chances to take him off guard, especially some frail low-class devil.
Yelena: You can mask yourself as a devil?
Arto: I can easily do so *make a hand sign* See?
Venelana: Another matter, about your safety, we don't want to lose you, Arto, you are too precious to us, and just like Robin, your identity has been kept from the whole Underworld.
Sena: This might announce your identity to everyone, which will bring you lots of problems, so we suggest you keep yourself hidden in this mission.
Arto: Thank you for your suggestion, Lady Venelana, Lady Sena, I'll do as you said.
Yelena: One more time, Arto, can you really save my sister?
Arto: Yes, Because......... Let me tell you a little secret, the secret about what we Abyssgards do for a living............
End of flashback
Arto: Oh, right. She's coming today, right?
Venelana: Indeed, and she's right behind you.
???: Hello Arto~
I turn myself back to see a beautiful silver haired woman standing behind me with a smile
Arto: Good day to you, Grayfia.
Rias: You know her?
Robin: So she is the woman you have been contacting non stop after the feast. You concealed your messages really well, Arto
Nami: Damn, she's gorgeous, how in the hell all women Arto knows are extremely beautiful?
Akeno: Well, another competitor, from the way she talks, I can see she has taken quite a liking to my Arto
Yelena: Grayfia, you came?
Yelena said as she approached her sister for a hug, Grayfia happily hugged her sister.
Grayfia: Good day to you, Yelena.
Yelena's voice tone down as she said
Yelena: Today is the day, right?
Grayfia: Yes, sister, today is my judgment day, where my fate will be decided.
After letting go of her sister, Yelena walk to Arto with a pleading eyes
Yelena: Arto, please, free my sister, I will put every last piece of my faith on you, so please don't let that bastard Razer take her away.
Arto: I will, Yelena, I'll do everything I can, even the dirtiest tricks, I'll get Grayfia out of this, it's a promise between us.
And I turn to Grayfia and reach my hand out to her
Arto: Shall we, my Lady?
She happily took my hand
Grayfia: Let us depart, my bodyguard.
Rias: Can anyone tell me what's going on?
Robin: Well.........
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto putting on his vest)
3rd POV
Arto and Grayfia are now inside a limousine, heading to where her fate will be decided, the capital of this ring of hell, Lilith, they are now heading to the city hall, where the council room is placed, where those followers of Razer Phenex are waiting.
Grayfia: Are you nervous, Arto?
Arto: That question should be for you, I can see your hand shaking *take her hand* don't worry, we'll win, I won't let that burnt chicken take you.
Grayfia: Thank you, it really made me feel better. But still, I can't help but worried, might have to marry the man I don't love, even really hate, without my consent.
Arto: It's indeed very unpleasant. I can see why you are worried.
Grayfia: But you don't have even a trace of concern on your face, are you that confident?
Arto: Firstly, I am that confident. Secondly, I have been in these kinds of situations too much to be concerned about it, you know, one against all, eyed by everyone in the room.
Grayfia: You sure had a tough life, right Arto?
Arto: I did, but it gave me lots of experience and knowledge to deal with these bastards to save you, to set you free.
Grayfia: Thank you, for standing up for me.
Arto: Everyone is there for you, your parents, your sister, I just represent them here, to teach them a lesson.
After that serious conversation, the ride goes on with more fun talk about daily matters. Until the limousine arrived at the big city hall
Arto: Let us head in, Grayfia
Grayfia: Right.
The two get into the city hall as Arto puts on a mask, and walk to the giant council room, where many sets of tables are put in arcs, surrounding a center set of tables where Sirzechs is sitting with a serious face, even after he sees Arto. The two have moved to a set of tables in front of to the right the one Sirzechs is sitting, Arto takes his seat next to Grayfia . After a while, everyone arrived at the council room, the one who stand out the most is a blond, bulky man
He take a seat at the table in front of to the left of Sirzechs table
Arto: This must be Razer Phenex, he does look kinda strong, but still, not enough.
Razer: Good day to you, Lord Lucifer.
Sirzechs: Good day to you as well, Razer.
Razer: Good day to you, Lady Grayfia *kisses her hand* I see you brought someone with you today.
Grayfia: Don't mind him, he's just my bodyguard
Razer: You have weird taste, having a low class devil as your bodyguard, I don't know which one of you needs protection. But no matter, once you marry me, you'll be in utmost safety, no one will be able to harm you.
Arto: More like no one will ever see you again.
Razer: Well, Lord Lucifer, let us begin our vote for Grayfia future consort.
Sirzechs: Indeed, then let us begin. Who agrees that Grayfia will be in Razer Phoenix's harem, show me your magical sign.
After Sirzechs announcement, the left half of the council room was illuminated in light.
Razer: HOW!? Only this much? What did I tell them to do, these bastards?
Sirzechs: Okay, Who is against this marriage, show me your magical sign.
The right half of the room was illuminated in light
Razer: Those treacherous bastards, they took my money and phoenix tears to turn their back on me here, I'll make sure to deal with them later.
Grayfia: What? Why are there so many against it? This shouldn't be possible, Razer has bought off everyone.........!? Arto!?
She thinks as she looks at the man who sits next to her, who still remains stoic under his mask all the time here.
Sirzechs: Looks like we have equal vote on this matter, seems like we need another measure to finalize this. Any suggestions?
Razer: I know, how about a fight? Each side sends a representative, fights a one on one battle, the winning side will decide the result of this matter.
Sirzechs: Interesting, so who are you going to choose as your competitor, Razer?
He looks around before pointing at Arto
Razer: Him, Grayfia's bodyguard as my competitor. Will he accept the challenge as a man and stand up for his Mistress or will he sit there like a lowly coward he is? I'll use you as an example for those that stand against me.
Arto then stand up and walk to Razer
Arto: Challenge accepted. No more backing down now you bastard
Sirzechs: Then it's decided, a one on one fight to decide Grayfia's future, if Razer here wins, he'll get Grayfia in his harem, if the bodyguard here wins, what will it be?
Arto: Lady Grayfia will be free to choose whoever she wants to be with without any interference from anyone.
Sirzechs: Then it's settled, let us head to the arena.
The two are teleported inside the arena which is placed under the city hall, everyone is now watching from above the arena.
Razer: I must say, you are a brave man, no low class devil would dare stand against me, I'll give you that, you must love her very much, to risk your life like this, but this marriage is inevitable.
He said as he took off his jacket, revealing a giant, muscular body, the power he radiated was so huge, to the point it created some wind in the arena.
Seeing this, Arto still remains neutral, he slowly makes a hand sign, an armor is donned on his body.
(A/N: No sword)
Razer: I must say, I am impressed, good armor you have there, you LOWLY LIFE FORM!
He said as he covered his fist in fire and launched himself at Arto with blinding speed, only for him to dodge to a side and give Razer a knee in his head, this pushed him back a few meters.
Grayfia: He's that strong?
The bruise on Razer's quickly heals as he launches himself at Arto again with fire fist, but those flaming punches never reaches Arto, in return, the Abyssgard hard punches on his ears and eyes, temporarily make him staggered as he knee him in the chest, knock the Phenex out. After a while, he stood up, like nothing happened. The fight goes on for hours, loud sound of dirt scattering all over places, fire attacks fly everywhere, the two combatants display enormous strength and speed, but only one person got hit, that's the Phenex
Sirzechs: You made a wrong choice, Razer.
Flashback
Arto: Yes, Because......... Let me tell you a little secret, the secret about what we Abyssgards do for a living............
Arto take a deep breath before continue
Arto: ......... You do know 'Secret Service', yes?
Sora: Of course we do, the force that protects important people and deals with those that want to harm us. We both have special squads of 'Secret Service'.
Arto: Yes, and that's exactly what we Abyssgards do.
Everyone's eyes widen hearing this
Zeoticus: You don't mean.........
Arto: Yes, we do the 'Secret Service' job for the noble, they hire us to protect them from harm and kill those they want to harm. We are the blade and the shield for the political war in hell.
Serafall: So your Legion............
Arto: Indeed, full of elite soldiers fitting for the 'Secret Service'
Sena: How many people do you have again?
Arto: At the most crowded time, 10 millions
Venelana: 10 millions? Every single one of them is suitable for the 'Secret Service' squad......
Sora: ......... your legion can be considered the strongest army in all 3 factions.
Zeoticus: That's insane.
Sirzechs: This army alone could take over the world.
Arto: Indeed, that's the reason why I am so confident that I can save Grayfia, I have experiences dealing with high class devils and I can pull this off.
End of flashback
Razer: You can hit all you want, I am immortal, you can never defeat me.
He said as he raise the temperature of the arena up, trying to cook Arto, but to no avail, he then fire many fire attacks that chase after Arto as he try to dodge, to add more damage to the combo, he launched himself at Arto, trying to take him off guard while he's struggling with the chasing flame. But to Razer's surprise, Arto not only avoid the flame but also give him a kick on his head's side, slamming him to the ground, as Razer look up, he sees the Abyssgard is now using his opened hand to stop the chasing flame, he then closes his hand make the flame vanished.
Grayfia: Splendid, everything he does is just splendid. He hits the most lethal places on Razer's body, controlling his flame like it's nothing. Who are you, Arto Abyssgard?
Getting angrier he turn himself into a flaming bird and fly high into the sky, he then bombards the whole arena with fire, that turns the temperature of the arena to hundreds of degree, this could kill any unprepared warrior, but not Arto, he doesn't seem to be panic, his armor seems to have block all the heat from approaching him. Arto stands firmly on the fire surrounded ground, uses the flame Razer created to disguise himself, he summons a magical bow and aims it at the bird, and with an accurate shot, Razer is shot down. Razer falls on the ground with a big hole in his chest, he rolls around in pain, trying to heal as fast as possible because he knows the Abyssgard is coming.
Sirzechs: His accuracy is extremely high, Razer was flying at many times the speed of sound, and Arto still managed to land a critical hit on his chest. You are full of surprises, Arto Abyssgard.
Razer is truly angry now as he summons a flaming sword and makes a spell. Suddenly the ground beneath the hot arena shakes violently as some lava monsters come out from the ground.
Razer: Attack!
He commands the lava giants to kill Arto, but as they were barging in, he summon his weapon
He holds the sword on one hand, the other casts a spell to enhance his sword. He then gets himself into his battle stance before launching like a rocket at the monsters, with his blinding speed and skillful sword art, one by one the lava giant fell, cut in half horizontally, vertically,....... The warrior quickly disposed of all of the giants before quickly approaching the Phenex.
Razer: What the f*ck is he? He's supposed to be a weak low class devil. How could he be so strong?
He then look at Grayfia who has a smirk on her face
Razer: GRAYFIA!!
He scream as the warrior approaches him, he swing his flaming sword madly at the Abyss Guard, only for Arto parry them all swiftly like it's nothing
Razer: DIE! DIE! DIE! YOU BASTARD, DIEEE!
He yelled as his sword hit the ground, Arto took this chance to cut off Razer's sword holding hand, before giving him a kick on his chest, pushing him back to the wall of the arena, creating a crater there. The flaming sword disappeared, as did Arto's sword. He then slowly walk toward the crater the Phenex is now in
Arto: What are you doing in there, immortal? Does this low-class devil scare you that much?
Hearing that, Razer launched out of the hole and started to fight Arto like a wild animal, he attacks with no patterns, combined with flaming assaults that make some fabrics on Arto's armor burnt.
Arto: Hey, careful, this armor is brand new, treat it with care a little, will you?
Razer: AHHHHHHHHH! I'LL TURN YOU INTO CHARCOAL.
He said as he launched a flaming wave around the arena, making it impossible to evade, Arto just put on a light smirk, before he created a barrier around himself and went underground, evading all the damage from the fire wave.
After the attack, Razer is now panting, thinking that the Abyssgard is dead, he laughs in victory. He then look at Grayfia
Razer: Your warrior really put up a fight, Grayfia, but a low class devil can only go that far, too bad he's dead now, if not, he would love witness our wedding night, seeing me taking your body as my own, the body of the woman he loves, so much to the point he gave up his life only for me to marry you.
The Razer heard something underground, after a moment, Arto came up from there, with no harm on his body.
Razer: NO! NO! NO! THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING! HOW IS HE STILL ALIVE?......
Before he could say anything else, Arto approached him with a hard punch on his stomach, so hard it created a sonic boom on the other side of his body, Razer spit a lot of blood as he was sent flying back. The Phenex is now on his knees as blood keeps spilling from his mouth. He looks at the Abyssgard who is still approaching him menacingly. He tried to fight back but to no avail, Arto keeps throwing him around like a sack of peeled potato, kicks, punches, Razer's body is receiving so much damage that all the mana he has left was focused on healing his wounds, his fire magic is nullified, Razer became the punching bag for Arto to do anything he wants with.
Grayfia: Such brutality......... Sirzechs?
Sirzechs: I have never seen him like this before, he is usually a kind, gentle man, I never thought he could be this cruel to his opponent.
As the conversation goes on, Razer is being tortured by Arto, he couldn't fight back, each time a part on his body healed, the Abyssgard immediately broke it, but he couldn't die because his giant mana reserve is still healing him constantly. After a few hours, Arto lifted his bloody fist from Razer's body, as he was about to land it again, Razer raised his shaking hand to Arto, signaling him to stop this. But the message doesn't seem to reach Arto as he took Razer's wrist, and ripped his arm out of his body, which earned a loud scream of pain from the victim. He continued with Razer's other arm and both of his legs. Finally, he tightens his grip around Razer's neck before pinning him to the wall of the arena with knives he summons. The brutality continued when Arto started to punch Razer in his stomach. The worst thing is that Razer is still alive, his healing ability doesn't allow him to die, it's still healing him, keeping him conscious to suffer from all this.
Grayfia: Sirzechs?
Sirzechs: I know, this needs to stop, it has gone too far.
He said as he announced on the speaker
Sirzechs: Considering Razer Phenex is now unable to fight, the result is concluded, Grayfia's bodyguard is the winner and the marriage of Grayfia and Razer Phenex is now canceled, Grayfia will be free to choose her consort without any interference.
Hearing this, Arto finally stopped beating Razer, he went to get one of Razer's legs, reach inside the pocket and get a dose of Phoenix tear from the pocket before approaching the pinned body of the Phenex and get him down, before pouring the dose over his body, heal them immediately. He then turns back to see Grayfia launch herself at him and wraps her arms around him, he can feel tears falling down from her eyes.
Grayfia: Thank you, Arto, thank you so much for freeing me.
Arto then takes off his hood and his mask, before hugging Grayfia.
Arto: You're welcome, your dear sister wholeheartedly wants you to be free to love whoever you want, I can't just stand out of this.
Yelena: Indeed, congratulations, Grayfia.
Grayfia turns back to see her sister and Sirzechs standing together.
Grayfia: Sister!!!!!
They share a warm hug, Sirzechs has a content smile on his face as he approaches Arto
Sirzechs: Well done, Arto. You successfully completed this task, I cannot thank you enough for this, but the 'you' I saw back there.........
Arto: .......That's for another time.
Sirzechs: Of course, sorry for interfering with your personal matters.
Arto: It's alright. Now, what do we do to celebrate this?
Sirzechs: I've already call my mother, she is launching a feast at home, you'll never be hungry when she's around
Arto: A wonderful mother, I love her so much.
Sirzechs: Me too, she is one of a kind.
As the group was talking to each other, Razer slowly rises up from the ground, looking around, seeing everyone is gone, that battle is over and that lowly devil has come out victorious. Rage is taking over him, he flares up his aura as he launches at Arto from behind. Before he could reach Arto, someone jump into the space between him and Razer, they shoot a magical pulse that stop Razer on his way.
Sirzechs: Stop this Razer. You have lost, fair and square, this marriage has been canceled, stop this madness NOW!
He said as his aura flares up, make Razer shrink from a phoenix to a chicken.
Razer: You...you don't understand, they tricked me into this, Grayfia and her bodyguard.
Sirzechs: Aren't you the one who suggested this battle? You even got to choose who you will fight, no one was in your way, everything was to your desire, and now you lost, you dare say that they tricked you into this? Accept this and move on Razer, you have lost.
Razer: But.....But.......My lord.....
Sirzechs: No more 'but', get out of here before I make you.
Razer reluctantly leaves in anger and dissatisfaction.
Arto: Thank you, Lord Lucifer
Sirzechs: Stop that, just call me Sirzechs when I am not on duty. The Lucifer thing is getting too much of the time I could have spent for my wife and my son.
Arto: Yeah, duty does take away too much of our time, without it, I might have united with my long lost mother, or even confess to the girl I love.
Sirzechs: That's sad, I know. But someone gotta do it, right? People need us.
Arto: Yeah, 'for greater good' they say, but none of us are happy about this.
Arto/Sirzechs: But if we don't do it, who will?
We look at each other before burst out laughing
Arto/Sirzechs: That's the spirit.
They then share a fist bump before heading back to Gremory mansion. The moment they return
Millicas: Mommy, Daddy, you're home
He said as he jumped into Sirzechs's arms. Sirzechs smile happily while hugging his son
Sirzechs: Yes, Daddy's home, Millicas.
Millicas: Why are you home so early today?
Sirzechs: I have run out of duty today, so I am home early to play with my sweet little son.
Millicas: Yayy, where are we going today Daddy.
Sirzechs: You said once you would like to go to an amusement park with Mommy and Daddy, right?
Millicas: Yes.
Sirzechs: Guess what? We are heading there today, just the 3 of us.
Millicas: Really? Let's go, let's go, Mommy, Daddy.
Sirzechs: You heard our son Yelena, change into something nice and easy to move around. I know you like maid outfits but change for me today, okay?
Yelena: Alright, for you and Millicas.
She said as she uses a spell to change her outfit
Millicas: Mommy pretty
Yelena: Mommy's always pretty, now, let us depart to the amusement park.
Sirzechs/Millicas: Yeahhhh!
The family then teleport themselves away, leaving Arto and Grayfia back at the entrance of the mansion.
Arto: They sure are a happy family, yeah?
Grayfia: Indeed, Yelena has made a good choice for a husband, even though he's busy all the time with his duty as a Satan, he still tries his best to have some time with his little family. I wish I could be that lucky in finding a man.
Arto: Then I wish you good luck, you are free now, you have plenty of time ahead of you, so make sure you have a right choice, alright? If you need anything, I'll be glad to help.
Grayfia: Thank you, Arto, for everything, here some gratitude from me for setting me free.
She said as she placed a kiss on his cheek, they both shared a light smile before heading inside the mansion, where the feast is waiting for them.
Notes:
Well, Grayfia is now free from her arranged marriage, and you know who she'll be with. But this vacation in the underworld will not just end here, there will be more stories to tell, like the visit to Sitri domain, or a day off of Sirzechs's family,.......... So stay tuned for the next chapter.
Chapter 13: The aftermath
Summary:
The aftermath of battle between Razer and Arto
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
As Grayfia and I get in the mansion, Rias and Akeno are waiting for me menacingly. As they see me, they immediately come to me with dark auras all over them. And the interrogation begins.......
Rias: Why didn't you tell me anything, Arto? Why didn't you tell me about your battle with Razer Phenex?
Akeno: Before we heard what happened from Robin, I couldn't help but worry when Grayfia just came and you immediately took her hand and walked away with her. I thought you were cheating on us with Grayfia.
Arto: No, no, of course not, I can never cheat on you and Rias, I love you girls too much to do that, and I'm glad Robin has explained everything to you so that we don't need to argue about this, because I was about to do so after I returned. About not telling you, Rias, I don't want to disturb your vacation because of my matter, and this is an sensitive case, I don't want my identity and our alliance to be exposed in this, because if the Phenex clan knows I am with you, they will be more cautious and the chance of challenging Riser with a peerages battle will drop drastically, directly affect your chance to put an end to this stupid marriage between you and Riser. So please, understand this for me, okay? I am so sorry for making you worried.
I said as I hug both of my girls in my arm
Rias: Arto.......
Akeno: Don't worry, my love. I can never bring myself to be mad at you, especially after everything you have done for us.
Rias: I am sorry, for disturbing you with my own matter, this is your vacation too. Not only that, I was mad at you for your good intention, forgive me, okay? I was too worried for your safety.
Arto: It's okay, I am not mad at you, in fact, I am happy that you are worried for me, that's why I love you, always look out for others. I am only mad at the bastards that put you and Grayfia into this situation, I'll make sure that they learn the lesson. Razer has had his beating, now to Riser.
Rias: Arto, do you think we are ready to face him?
Arto: Considering Razer's power, I can easily measure Riser's power, combining with his personality, and with some footage about his battle I got from your father. I dare say, with your strength by now, you can defeat him easily..........
Rias: Really!?
Arto: .....But I don't want you to defeat him.....
Rias: Huh!?
Arto: .......I want you to destroy him completely, physically and mentally, break his arrogance, shatter his big ego, turn him from a flaming bird to a burnt chicken, teach that bastard a lesson. Can you do it, Rias? I ask you, can you do it!?
Rias: I can and I will, for my future and for you, Arto, so that all you and Robin taught me doesn't go to waste, so that I can freely be with the man I love.
Arto: That's the spirit, Rias.
Akeno: Now the misunderstanding is resolved, it's about time we turn our attention to another matter.
Arto: What is it?
Suddenly, someone jumped on me, and hugs me very tight, the orange and money smell, soft squishy feeling on my back
Nami: Arto, You were so amazing back there, you fought like a hunter, the moment I saw Razer, I was scared you'd be in trouble, but you destroyed him in every aspect with ease.
Akeno: Your battle with Razer.
Grayfia: Yes, I wanna ask you something about that battle too.
Arto: You watched that?
Robin: Of course, your future mother-in-law and wives really want to know how far you can go with your strength, so I broadcasted the battle live for them to see.
Venelana: And I must say, I am impressed, Arto, about what you did back there, not only you are a perfect teacher but a complete combatant. All I can say is that I can leave Rias to you without any worries.
Arto: Thank you, Lady Venelana, I will take good care of not just Rias but also all the girls.
Robin: Thank you, Arto. Now, who wants to watch the battle again?
Rias: Me.
Akeno: Me too. I wanna see Razer suffer in pain.
Nami: Me three. I wanna see your sword art
Grayfia: Me four.
Robin: Looks like everyone wants to go on this roller coaster again.
Arto: Wait, where is Kiba and Koneko?
Rias: They are training in the simulation room back home, let me call them.......*clicks*........Yes, Kiba, can you bring Koneko back here a bit?........You've just done your training?........Good..........Be quick, okay? ....We are going to watch a movie together........action film........Yes, yes, see you at the mansion.....*clicks*
Arto: So while Kiba and Koneko were training, you two just lazily lying around here, huh?
Akeno: For your information, We were training before Koneko and Kiba. When you just walked away with Grayfia here, we were blinded by anger and jealousy, we released our emotions on the monsters in the simulation room without telling Kiba and Koneko, so when we were watching your fight with Razer, they went to the simulation room for training.
Arto: Whew, I'm glad you are not slacking off. Now let me take a shower first.
Rias: Right. Then meet us in the movie room, okay? We'll prepare some snacks and drinks.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto walking along the hall with a towel over his shoulder)
3rd POV
As Arto arrives at the movie room, he sees a long sofa, lots of pillows on the sofa and the mattress floor, a bunch of snacks, drinks, and a big screen that is broadcasting his battle with Razer, from the part when Grayfia and Arto walked inside the city hall. He can see everyone, even Lady Venelana is in their nightgowns, the only exception is Grayfia who is still wearing the outfit she wore back at the city hall.
Rias: Arto, here you are, c'mon, the movie is starting.
At the same time, Kiba and Koneko have also arrived, after grabbing a quick shower before joining the group in the movie room. Arto was about to take a seat on the sofa before he was grabbed by an arm that Robin summoned and dragged to where Robin is laying on a wide soft incline mattress.
Robin: You chose the wrong spot to enjoy the movie, Darling, come here to me~
She said as she opened her arm to Arto, he can't do anything now that Robin is inviting him, he turned around and lay down, leaned on Robin's body, she positioned his head in between her chest, wrapped her arms around his neck and didn't forget to give him a loving kiss on his forehead.
Robin: You did really well back there, love. You deserve a reward~. Girls?
As she said, Akeno and Rias come and position themselves on either of his side: Rias on his left and Akeno on his right, they both lay their head on his chest and wrap their arms around his belly. The smells from his girl's body attacked his nose, making him feel weirdly comfortable, their touches made his body seem to melt in the embraces. To add to the comfort, his arms unconsciously wrap around Rias and Akeno's body, feeling their soft, smooth skin in his palm.
Robin: Seems like our man is enjoying this~ fufufufu~
Rias: Of course he is, he's surrounded by the most beautiful women after all.
Akeno: Not only that, those women love him deeply. Even after all that, no tint of pink could be found on his face even though he's enjoying this comfort, Arto~, you are one tough to crack.
Robin: But not too worry, we'll find a way to make you blush sooner or later, as long as we are together.
Arto: I'd love to see you try, but in the meantime: I love you.
Rias/Akeno: We love you too, Arto.
As Arto is being treated by his girls, Kiba take a seat near Grayfia, she ask
Grayfia: You gotta deal with this everyday?
Kiba: I don't deal with them, I just let them do as they like, it's their life after all. Who am I to interrupt their happiness?
Grayfia: Yeah.
Nami: Koneko, you look kinda lonely there, come here, if Arto is too busy with his girls, I'll be the one who will be pampering you.
Nami opened her arm to welcome Koneko into her embrace. After a few moments of hesitation, Koneko gave up and jumped into Nami embrace, she gently rubbed her head, which earned some light purrs from the white haired girl. As the spoiling is going on Nami feels someone hug her from behind.
Venelana: Your body feels so much like Rias's. And as my daughter is busy with her man, may I hug you in the meantime, Nami?
Nami: Of course, Lady Venelana, you can hug me anytime you want. Rias's so lucky to have a wonderful mother like you.
Venelana: Why thank you, Nami, you know what? I can be your mother as well if you want.
Nami's eyes shines bright hearing this
Nami: Really, lady Venelana? *She happily nod* Yay! I love you, Mommy Venelana.*sniff* Finally, for the first time in my life I have found myself a mother.
Venelana: *Rub her head* I love you too, my sweet daughter Nami. I'm sorry for your loss of parents, I'll do my best to fill that hole in your heart. *kisses her forehead*
Nami: Thank you, Mommy Venelana.
Screen: 'Sirzechs: Indeed, then let us begin. Who agrees that Grayfia will be in Razer Phoenix's harem, show me your magical sign.'
Venelana: This kinda surprised me, how are only half of the council room agree with this marriage?
Grayfia: I am curious too, but the next one was really the astonishment
Screen: 'Sirzechs: Okay, Who is against this marriage, show me your magical sign.''
Grayfia: This is where everything gets weird, how are there so many people against this? I thought Razer had bought everyone off.
Robin: Arto?
Arto: Hmm?
Robin: Maybe he is too comfy to speak anything now, but this is caused by Arto. Girls, time to let go of him, he has some explaining to do.
Rias and Akeno comply and let go. After a while Arto is back to his sense as he start to explain
Arto: It's an illusion, I just tricked their brain into thinking the order of the question is the way around from vote 'from agree to disagree' to 'from disagree to agree'
Grayfia: So how could they not notice that you used a spell on them?
Arto: Here *opens his palm* can you see it?
Grayfia: No.
Arto: Can you sense it?
Grayfia: No. What are you talking about? there is nothing there.
Arto: Then come here and touch
Grayfia complies and touches where he point, only to feel burning sensation on her finger
Grayfia: Hot, hot, what's in there?
Arto: An orb of fire, you only know it until you touch it.
Grayfia: Wait, so you.........
Arto: Yes, I used this to put an illusion spell on the people in the council room.
Akeno: Is it the reason why we couldn't sense you when you returned with Nami and the 'Dream Mirror'?
Arto: Yes, it's called 'Null Zone', it blocks energy from radiating, making it impossible to detect. But it doesn't make it invisible so a concealment spell from Robin makes it perfect.
Grayfia: So they only know it when they touch it.
Arto: Yes, those bastards back there didn't know they were in illusion until now.
Elsewhere
Razer: What do you mean you did according to the plan? You went against the marriage
Noble 1: We did exactly what you told us to do. We showed our magical sign when Lord Lucifer asked who agreed on this marriage. They are the ones that went against what you said.
Noble 2: No, you are the one who raised your magical sign when Lord Lucifer asked who disagreed with the marriage. I saw it with my own eyes.
Noble 1: You can even check my memory, we did exactly what you told us to do.
Razer: Bishop. Check their memories.
Bishop: Yes, my lord...........What's happening?
Razer: What's it?
Bishop: According to their memories, Lord Lucifer asked who disagreed first then who agreed second, but in reality.....
Razer: ........Lord Lucifer asked who agreed first and who disagreed second.
Noble 1: See? We are not at fault here.
Noble 2: Then who?
Bishop: Maybe you were hit by illusion magic.
Noble 1: That shouldn't be possible, we should have known if it hit us.
Bishop: Indeed, you all can sense magic around you, how couldn't you know about the spell that was casted on you?
Razer: WHOEVER DID THIS? I'LL MAKE THEM PAY!!!
Back home
Grayfia: So that's how it is, you are so smart.
Arto: Thank you, now, let us continue.
The movie keep going until Razer chose Arto to be his opponent
Grayfia: How did you know he would choose you as his opponent?
Arto: Firstly, everyone in this council room is his ally, he bought them all off, every single one of them to guarantee his victory, he wouldn't fight them, because he has signed some contracts with them to gain their support. If he fights any of his allies, commotion will be caused, his allies will get worried for their safety and will stop supporting his clan. Secondly, he can't fight you because he knows he can't win. So the last option he has is a frail, weak low class devil, a devil that has the mana reserve of a human, not only that, the mana reserve in his body is not even full, a perfect opponent.
Grayfia: So you use the illusion magic first to draw away your mana, to make sure he'd choose you as his opponent, a weak enough opponent for him to get an easy win?
Arto: Yes, that illusion magic was very draining. It took me a large portion of my mana reserve to cast them on half of the council room.
Grayfia: Splendid, every move was just a part of his plan, he uses all the opponent's advantages to his own, this man, Arto Abyssgard, is unbelievable, from using undetected illusion to weaken himself.......all because of me, to set me free, he went that far for me,..............
Venelana: That's one excellent move, Arto, you really out-played them, Razer doesn't have any option left but to fight you.
Rias: That's my Arto *hugs him*
Akeno: Who said he's yours *hugs him*
Robin: Everyone knows that Arto loves me the most, so he should be mine *hugs him*
Arto: I love you all, now, let us continue, the battle is quite long.
The movie goes on to the battle between Razer and Arto, watching the fight from Robin spying eyes make it even better since they captured every detail of the battle, the girls can't stop being amazed by the quality of the battle. The room was silent as the battle goes on, no one was able to take their eyes off the screen
Grayfia: Wait, Arto, you only used 2 spells in this battle? One to enhance your sword, and one is the magical bow to shoot down Razer. So all those strength, speed and reaction.......
Arto: Yeah, no magic there, that's just me.
Grayfia: A human with such strength, how could you achieve all this?
Arto: That's a story for another time.
The battle goes on to the part where Arto uses his magical bow to shoot down Razer from the sky.
Nami: That's one epic scene, Arto stands tall on a fire covered ground..........
Kiba: .......patiently holding his bow, it's like the only shot he has.
Arto: Because it is, Kiba, that was the only shot I had, I pour most of my mana reserve into that attack. If I miss that, I'll have to catch him by hand, which is harder.
Grayfia: I am still amazed by how you could shoot him down, he was flying at many times the speed of sound.
Akeno: Right in the chest, if it's not for his healing factor, he would've died there. Good shot, Darling~
Rias: He even called those lava giants, he's that desperate?
Venelana: I think he is calling the minions to hold Arto back, in order to heal himself, but why didn't he use phoenix tears at this point?
Grayfia: He still thinks he can win, watching the whole fight back there, this is the only time he could use it, but he didn't, and it resulted in his shameful defeat against a 'low class devil'.
Koneko: You killed those lava giants with ease, Arto's strength is indeed one of a kind. And don't forget about his armor, it blocked all the heat from Razer's attack, he didn't seem to have any burns on his body when he came home.
Arto: Yeah, those armor was designed for extreme environments, this is nothing, I am glad those blacksmiths didn't disrupt any function of this armor.
And the battle continues, until
Akeno: Here comes my favorite part.......
She said as the movie moved to the horror part, where Arto tortured Razer, Nami immediately covered Venelana's eyes, to prevent her from seeing this scene, because she knows too well what happened to Lady Venelana the last time she watched this scene. As Nami was covering her eyes, Rias summoned a blindfold and a headphone that was playing some comfy music and put them on Venelana.
Rias: Good job, Nami.
Nami: You too, Rias, can't let our mother see this.
Punches after punches landed on Razer's body, the only sound was the scream in pain of the victim, Arto didn't seem to display any emotion under his armor. Akeno and Grayfia are having the time of their life watching the Phenex being beaten like a punching bag by Arto.
Akeno: Such brutality.......You are the best, Arto. You're making that bastard suffer.
Rias: A bit too much for me, I know he deserves all this and I would love watching him suffer, but I can never get used to this version of Arto, I am more used to the gentle and kind Arto. *pokes Arto's cheek* This Arto here is the Arto I love the most.
Robin: We all love his gentle version, but sometimes, that brutal version is needed, especially against someone like Razer Phenex.
Akeno: I know, but don't use it too often, okay? You're even more cruel there than when you're in the simulation room.
Arto: Don't worry, I don't wanna use that version of myself anyway, but that bastard deserved all that beating if he wanted to harm those I care about.
The scene moved to when Arto ripped Razer's limbs off, and pinned him on the wall with knives.
Akeno: I must admit, this is a bit much for me. Arto was like a hungry wolf.
Grayfia: If it was not for Sirzechs, how long are you going to keep this up?
Arto: I don't know, until I stop hating him I guess, the way he talks about taking your body really pisses me off, he even wanted me to be there to witness, that sick bastard.
The battle ended after Sirzechs's announcement
Venelana: Is it over yet?
Nami: Yes, mother, you can take the blindfold off now.
Rias: Here, let me help you.
Venelana: Thank you girls.
Kiba: Has he no shame? Attacking people like that, even after he's defeated.
Rias: That's my brother, put him to his rightful place.
Akeno: I love his face when he has to leave the arena, pure anger and discontent but unable to do anything, fufufu~
Koneko: *Thumb-up* Good game, Arto.
Arto: Yeah, thanks.
Venelana: Well, would you look at the time, it's dinner time, everyone, let us move to the dining room, we are having a feast today, to celebrate Grayfia's freedom and Arto's victory. Grayfia, you'll join us, yes?
Grayfia: I would love to, Lady Venelana, thank you for having me.
As everyone is heading to the dining room, they saw Sirzechs's family is now back from the amusement park. Millicas is riding on his father's shoulder, while Yelena is holding his hand.
Venelana: Hello Sirzechs, Yelena, Millicas, where did you go?
Arto: You have returned, Sirzechs, how was the amusement park?
Sirzechs: It was fun, we all enjoyed ourselves to the fullest. It's rare to have relaxing time like that
Millicas: It was so, so fun, uncle Arto, let me tell you what happened.
Millicas said as he jumped down from his father's shoulder into Arto's arms and started telling him the stories.
Grayfia: Did you enjoy yourself, sister?
Yelena: I did, it was so much fun, I can't believe Millicas was into such thrilling games, he didn't show any trace of scare, he enjoyed them even, just like Sirzechs back then, always barged into the most dangerous places.
Sirzechs: *Rubs his head* He's so like me, right?
Yelena: *Kisses his cheek* That's why I love you, because of your reckless nature, I am able to be here.
Sirzechs: And you have always been here, for me, for Millicas, even though I don't have much time for you and our son, I am sorry.
Yelena: I know, and I understand, you have your duties with everyone in hell as their leader. And I'll be here, being your Queen, being your strongest supporter, and your wife.
Sirzechs: Thank you Yelena, I love you so much, my beloved wife. I'll try my best to spend more time with you and Millicas in the future.
Rias: That's so romantic.
Akeno: Such love.......
Arto: It'll be possible.
Sirzechs: Huh?
Arto: I said you'll be able to spend more time with your little family in the future when I completed the 'time dilation' function for the simulation room. You can work there to cut down on working time and enjoy your life with your wife and son.
Sirzechs's eyes widened hearing this, he approached Arto with an anticipating look.
Sirzechs: You can?
Arto: I can, I can't let your duty hold you back from being with those you love, especially your wife and your son, like me once.
Millicas: What are you talking about, Father, Uncle?
Arto: We are talking about your father, he'll be able to spend more time with you and Yelena in the future, Millicas.
Millicas: Really? That means he'll be able to play with me more?
Yelena: Not just playing, he'll have more time to teach you, you'll be able to learn from one of the strongest and wisest devil in hell.
Millicas: Yesssssss!!!!
Sirzechs: If this project of yours turns out successful, I'll owe you a lot, Arto.
Arto: Please don't say that, I'm doing the right thing, so that you'll never have to suffer like me once.
Sirzechs then hugs Arto tightly in his arms.
Sirzechs: You are the best gift fate has ever given to us.
Arto: Thank you for that, now get some shower before dinner, you are all sweaty now, and Lady Venelana is getting impatient.
Sirzechs: Oh, right, sorry, mother. Millicas, would you like to have a bath with Daddy and Mommy?
Millicas: *his eyes brighten* YES! I would love to, I have never had a chance to bathe with you. Now let's go.
Sirzechs: Yelena?
Yelena: Of course I am coming too, Millicas can never wash his head properly.
They said the family went to the bathroom.
Rias: That's so sweet of you, Arto. I have never seen my brother being so happy before.
Arto: He is bound by duties that he doesn't like, but has to take them anyway, 'For greater goods', just like me back then, no time for himself or his family, I can't let it happen again, especially when I can help.
Venelana: I can never thank you enough, Arto. This project of yours might be able to help my family be closer to each other, there have always been distance between us, duties, works, even though we love each other, but it's not enough when there's only me, Yelena and Millicas home, Zeoticus, Sirzechs, Rias have their works, even when they are home they still have to think about their duties.
Arto: I'll do anything I can to help, not just because of your hospitality and generosity for me, but also because I am a part of this family as well, you gave me the warm, loving feeling I think I have lost for millennials. Finally, I have myself a family, one that accepts me, one that loves me unconditionally.
Venelana: *hugs him* Yes Arto, we are your family. We'll be there for you no matter what. Thank you for appearing in our life.
After a warm family moment, everyone arrived at the dining room. After about 10 minutes, Sirzechs and his family have arrived, they are all in comfy clothes, unlike their normal attire.
Venelana: Welcome, have a seat everyone.
Sirzechs: Where is father?
Venelana: He has an appointment with Lord Sitri today, he should be home by now
As she said, a red circle appeared on the ground and Zeoticus had returned.
Venelana: Welcome home, Honey~.
Zeoticus: Yes, I am home, Honey~.
Sirzechs: Father, welcome home
Zeoticus: Sirzechs? You're home early today, those bastards finally gave you a break huh?
Sirzechs: Yes, father. Today, I went to the amusement park with Yelena and Millicas.
Zeoticus: Really? Was it fun, Millicas, Yelena?
Millicas: It was so much fun grandpa, let me tell you what happened.
Zeoticus: I would love to hear them. What about you, Yelena? It's a rare chance to spend time with your whole family after all
Yelena: Of course, I had a lot of fun, father, we enjoyed ourselves to the fullest, I hope there will be more time like this in the future.
Zeoticus: There will be when the 'Time Dilation' function is completed.
Venelana: Talking about 'Time Dilation' function, How was your meeting with Sora?
Zeoticus: It was really informative, we discussed the time expanding function for the simulation room with our scientists. The blueprints he sent us were very detailed, we have all got the way it will work. And it's possible to make.
Arto: I am glad.
Zeoticus: About the materials, we'll take care of them. Arto, do you need any help? I'll send some of our best constructors to help you.
Arto: There's no need, I can pull this off myself, because I am the person who knows the most about the simulation room so I can control the situations when things go south, having more people means more risk to ruin the project
Zeoticus: I understand, then the materials will be transferred to the old place, okay?
Arto: Okay, thank you Lord Zeoticus.
Venelana: Enough business, let's get down to dinner and talk about something else.
Everyone then enjoys the delicious dinner, the topic of the whole meal is the trip to the amusement park of Sirzechs's family.
Millicas: Then dad threw the ball so hard it blew away the whole stall.
Yelena: You don't have to do that.
Sirzechs: That guy taunted me.
Millicas: But in the end, I still got the plushie I wanted, Daddy is the best.
Yelena: With the price of the whole stall.
Sirzechs: I am so sorry.
Millicas: Then we went to the roller coaster.............
The meal went on in joy and harmony, there was a lot of laughter when Millicas described his mother's face when she played thrilling games, then the came the news that Sirzechs Lucifer made a hole on a devil's face with his fist
Arto: Why did you do that, Sirzechs?
Sirzechs: He looked at my Yelena lustfully.
Grayfia: He deserved that, I would have done the same in your place.
Sirzechs: I know, right?
After the meal, everyone is enjoying themselves, Robin and Venelana are talking to each other, they seem to like each other a lot, Kiba is playing with Millicas using wooden swords, Koneko is sleeping on Nami's lap while she's talking to Rias about shopping. Sirzechs and Zeoticus are enjoying a game of chess. Yelena and Grayfia are trying on some maid outfits, something they both are interested in. Arto and Akeno are cuddling while reading a book. The night went by peacefully until bedtime.
Millicas: Can I sleep with you today, Mommy, Daddy?
Sirzechs: Of course, come here, Millicas.
Millicas jumps in between his parents.
Yelena: He's so cute, isn't he?
Sirzechs: Just like you~
Yelena: And like you too, my Darling~
Nami: Will you sleep with me, Koneko?
Koneko: Whatever.
Nami: Awww~ you are so cute, I'll pamper you a lot tonight, come here.
She said as she hug Koneko in her arms
Robin: It's bedtime, where is Arto?
Rias: He said he needs some alone time in the onsen.
Rias said as she hold Akeno back and shakes her head
Rias: We all know we should leave him alone when he needs some space for himself.
Robin: Yes, Arto doesn't like being alone due to being in the void for thousands of years, so when he requires his alone time, we should stand out.
Akeno: Alright.
As the group were talking they heard some knocks on the door, Akeno went to open the door, thinking it's Arto, but.......
Grayfia: Is Arto here?
Akeno: He isn't, he is enjoying himself in the onsen, what's the matter?
Grayfia: He's not here, good, may I come in?
Akeno: Yes, please, come in.
Grayfia is now sitting on the bed, her finger twirling her hair in embarrassment.
Rias: Why did you come here in the bedtime, Grayfia? You can talk to us.
Robin: Let me guest, you want to talk about Arto, yes? *Grayfia nods while blushing* What do you want to know about our beloved?
Grayfia: I want to know him as a person, not as a warrior, but as Arto, Arto Abyssgard, I want to know him more: his personality, his way of treating people, his hobby, his.....his.......his type of woman.
Akeno: Ohh~, you have taken quite a liking to him, huh?
Grayfia: Yes, from the time we talk via messages, to the time he saved me from my arranged marriage, he treats me with care and respect, he doesn't save me because he wants my attention or love, but because of my sister's desire, because she wants to set me free, because she trusted him. No scheme, no calculation, just genuine goodness that rarely appears in anyone.
Rias: That's Arto, he's just wonderful that way, so you fell for him because of that?
Grayfia: I wouldn't call it 'love', yet, but I am curious about him, what made him into the person he is right now? You know, right?
Robin: Fufufufu~ So that's how it is, alright, we know your intention now, Grayfia. Akeno, lock the door, let us tell you a story, a story about Arto Abyssgard.
Arto POV
The onsen here is one of a kind. My body is feeling so relaxed now, after that battle, a dip in the onsen is all I need. I wish I had something like this back in my world, it would have been so much better. The hot water surrounding my body makes my muscles let loose. I slowly reach out to the floating basket in the pool. In there, a bottle of wine and a small cup, I take up Lord Zeoticus's advice and get myself sake. I slowly pour the wine into the cup and bring it to my lips, how long has it been since the last time I drank? I don't know, but all my memories about wine are linked to one and only one person, a person I can't remember their name, their face, their personality, all I remember is that "I'll be there for you if there is no one there for you".
Now that I have had a new life in a new world, I hope you're still doing well. How are you right now? Do you still go to that tavern? Do you still like red wine? Do you remember me, Dad? I think to myself as I drink the sake. This is good wine, just like back at that tavern, music, wine,......Cup after cup, the bottle slowly runs out, I still have no trace of getting drunk, just like back then, when I was the one who had to carry Dad home after we drank, good memories, indeed. Unfortunately, those memories are faint, hardly anything remains. I reach out to the bottle again, trying to use the sake to activate some memories about me and 'Dad', to see there isn't anything left in there, guess that's all for tonight, I reactivate my muscles, and slowly rise up from the pool, wrap my towel around my body and head to the changing room, where I put on a yukata and go to my room, where my girlfriends are waiting for me, the fact that they didn't look for me tells me that they know I need some private space for myself, I can never stop loving them.
I go to the door of my room to see it's locked, the light inside is still on but I didn't hear any sound. Curious, I knocked on the door a few times and waited. After a few moments the door slowly opened, revealing Akeno in her naked state.
Akeno: Welcome back, Darling~, did you enjoy your alone time?
Arto: Yes, I did, but I miss you girls now, that's why I returned.
Akeno: Fufufu~ I know you'll miss your women, now come in, we can't sleep without you.
I follow Akeno inside the room to see Rias and Robin are on the bed, both naked.
Robin: Good evening, Honey~. What took you so long? I thought you would leave us here the whole night and enjoy yourself in the onsen.
Arto: I can never do that, you know how much I hate being alone, spending some time by myself in the onsen is a way I remind myself how much I need you girls by my side.
Rias: Then you'll have us by your side all night, c'mon, let us go to sleep, I am sleepy.
Arto: But first, let me ask you this, why did you lock the door? You don't usually do so at home.
Rias: Because we don't want anyone to see us naked but you, you are the only exception, we save these beautiful naked bodies for you, and you alone.
Robin: I even set up some eyes on the entrance to see if it's you or not, we don't want any butler to accidentally see our naked state, the only man who is allowed is you, Darling~
Akeno: Indeed, That's how much we love you, Darling~ *kisses my cheek* No man gets to witness this beautiful scene but you.
Arto: Thank you girls, I love you so much, now, let us get some sleep.
Rias/Robin/Akeno: Agreed.
Grayfia: Robin, when can I get out of here? I wanna hear more stories about Arto.
Robin: *Whisper* Totally forgot about her, that's all your fault, Arto, focusing all of our attention on you, *Raises her voice* You can get out of there now, Grayfia.
After that, Grayfia got out of the bathroom.
Arto: Good evening Grayfia.
Grayfia: Good evening, Ar.....Ar......Arto!?
Robin: Grayfia, come here, we can continue with the stories now that Arto, the main character, is here.
Rias: There's no need to worry, Arto is not a pervert, he will not ogle at you like most men. Come sit with us
Akeno: Don't be shy, you were not so nervous back then. Come here.
Akeno said as she dragged Grayfia to sit on the bed. Grayfia is blushing really hard right now.
Arto: What happened with the gathering herer? What did you girls say behind my back?
Grayfia: No, no, it's nothing, I just want to know more about you, so I asked the girls here.
Robin: Yes, we just told her some stories about you. And from her reaction, she really likes it.
Arto: What did they tell you, Grayfia?
Grayfia: Many, about you being their teacher, teach them all sources of things from magic to fighting techniques, how you treat all your students with care and love, how passionate you are about being a teacher,......
Arto: You know? Those stories were highly biased based on their feelings for me, so even though most of the thing they told you is true, their phrasing will be so that I appear to be better than who I really am. So I recommend you getting to know me on your own, so that you have your own opinion about me. I don't want you to get the wrong idea from others' stories, okay? You have gained you freedom, so I want you to consider your decisions carefully, before choosing the right man for you.
Grayfia: Thank you Arto for your advice, I'll make sure to consider my decisions of the man I want to be with. And I want to start with you, my savior. Will you allow me to get to know you?
Arto: Of course, I agree, but under one condition, I want to know more about you too.
Grayfia: Yes, let's get to know each other, Arto Abyssgard.
Arto: I'm eager to know more about you, Grayfia Lucifuge.
Akeno: So Grayfia, do you want to sleep here with us?
Rias: Yeah, if you want to know your man, sleeping with him is a one of the ways
Robin: Indeed, one of the best ways, even.
Arto: Girls, don't force her like that, you don't have to if you don't want to, Grayfia. Don't let them affect your decision.
Grayfia: Then, I will return to my room, goodnight, Arto, Rias, Akeno, Robin.
Arto: Wise decision, goodnight, Grayfia
Robin: Goodnight, Grayfia, come to me if you want more stories
Rias: Goodnight, Grayfia, come sleep with us tomorrow, okay?
Akeno: Yes, we'll save a spare spot for you
Grayfia then gets out of my room, and doesn't forget to close the door.
Robin: *Locks the door* There we go, Arto, why did you stop her?
Arto: Because you girls are affecting her decision, I know he has a thing or two for me, but we gotta let it develop, we can't force it. You girls have been with me for a long time, get to know each other everyday, Grayfia has only been talking to me via messages for a month, we are not there yet, so don't put any pressure on her, okay? She has just gained her freedom and I want her to have her independent opinion.
Rias: Sorry, we just saw that she has feelings for you, and we want her to be more honest with her feelings.
Akeno: We are sorry, Arto. You are a good man.......
Robin: ..........and Grayfia deserves someone like you, someone who will care for her, let her be herself, love her unconditionally like you do for us.
Arto: I get that, you girls want her to be happy, I do too, but I am not the only good man in this world, so don't force me onto her, okay? Maybe, I am not even her type, or she already has someone else waiting for her. Well, it's really late now, let's sleep.
Rias/Robin/Akeno: Agreed.
As we were positioning ourselves on the bed, I saw something.
Arto: Wait, Grayfia left her nightgown here, then what is she wearing now?
I saw the girls facepalmed hearing this
Arto: What?
Rias/Robin/Akeno: Let's sleep.
Notes:
And the end, this chapter will conclude the whole Grayfia’s arranged marriage, Grayfia has started to develop her feelings for the MC. Next chapter might be Arto’s visit to Sitri’s domain, to meet his future parent-in-law. So what is your opinion about this chapter, let me know okay
Chapter 14: The visit
Summary:
Arto's visit to Sitri's domain
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
It's another comfy morning in hell, it's been a few days since the fight with Razer, everything is getting back to normal, I didn't hear any news about Razer and his allies, which is good, I think he has accepted his defeat and move on, or he's scheming something, I don't know, I am not going to spy on him, if he try anything funny, I'll be there to make him shut his stinky mouth, for good if needed. I tried to wake up but my body is pinned down by you know who. I slowly open my eyes to see a beautiful raven-haired girl sleeping soundly and cutely on my chest, I can hear her gentle breathing, suddenly, I can hear her mutter something.
Akeno: Ar....to.....love.......
I love you too, Akeno, how can I live without you by my side? I try to lift my arm to pat her head, only to realize that they are all occupied, one by Rias and one by Robin, they are both hugging my arm tightly like it's a hugging pillow, I can feel my arms being squeezed in between Rias's and Robin's chest, I can feel their softness clearly on my arms. Out of nowhere, Rias performed a kiss with my shoulder, I think we are having a sweet date in her dream. Robin is doing it also, rubbing my arm up and down, I don't know what she is dreaming, but I can see her happy face. I can feel my face putting on a smile because of how cute my girlfriends are.
Since we have the butlers and maids making breakfast for us, I can spend more time in bed with my girls, looking at there sleeping faces, it's a good way to spend my vacation, I don't need anything special, I just need my beloved girls by my side, I can lie in bed all day long. Talking about girls, I need to pay a visit to Sona and her family as well, I promised Sona and her peerage that. And I want to know about the Sitri domain in this world.
As my mind was wandering, one of the girls stirred awake, it's my crimson princess, Rias. Our eyes met as she blushed while still hugging my arm. Before anything, even the 'Good morning', I took the first step and connected our lips, she didn't seem to resist as she blended into the kiss, we tried to be as quiet as possible to not make Akeno and Robin up. The kiss went further as used a technique that Lady Venelana taught me, the 'French kiss', she said my lovers would love to have this. So I'll give it a try, Rias first, I stuck my tongue out and let it touch her teeth, gave her a signal to let me in. Rias seemed to realize this as she opened the door and our tongues met, immediately, they wrapped themselves around each other. Our saliva started to blend as I got to taste Rias's tongue. Her tongue is very soft and sweet like strawberry mochi. Even if our saliva is making our tongues very slimy, our tongues showed no trace of letting go, they keep playing with each other like us when we cuddle, pouring that wonderful taste and texture of Rias's tongue into my mouth. I can feel some saliva has leaked out of our mouths and dropped on the bed sheet, but we didn't care as the kiss went on. After a good 10 minutes, we gotta let go because of air shortage, as our tongues separated, as a trail of saliva is left to connect us. I can see Rias had a light smile on her blushing face, which makes her even more beautiful. I cupped her face with my palm and asked her in whispering
Arto: Was it better than the kiss in your dream, my Darling~?
Rias nudged her face deeper into my palm before answering
Rias: *whisper*That's the best kiss we have ever shared, I wanna go again.
Arto: *whisper* With pleasure~
I said as I used my palm to pull her closer to me into another kiss, our lips connected again as our tongues cuddled. After another 10 minutes, we separated again, we both pant heavily, to get as much air as possible before going on for another kiss. But as we are getting closer, we both sense something, Rias and I stop our morning kiss and turn our attention to the signal on my chest, Akeno has stirred awake, her 2 beautiful purple orbs met mine, but unlike Rias, Akeno has dissatisfaction in her eyes, combine with her pouting, blushing face doesn't make her threatening but it make me suffer from cuteness overload. I can't help but put on a smile at my Akeno, she's so adorable acting this way.
Akeno: Arto, my beloved~, have you forgotten about this poor, little Akeno? Of course, you have, you're having Rias Gremory, a princess from a royal family as your lover, why would you want to spend time with a country girl like me?......
Before she could say anything else, I pulled her into a kiss, a deep French kiss. Immediately, the dissatisfaction disappeared from her eyes, instead I saw her pleased eyes. It seemed like I did the right thing to calm my Akeno down. As our tongues are cuddling, I can feel Akeno is trying something, her tongue got more aggressive as it was trying to twist my tongue, fighting for dominance, but I won't let you do as you like, Akeno. I resist, my tongue wrestles hers down, she tries to resist but to no avail. In the end, Akeno admits her defeat and I am now free to do whatever I want with her tongue. I decided to go back to the gentle love as I cuddle her tongue with mine again. Akeno's tongue has a blueberry taste to it, unlike Rias's strawberry flavor, but I love it nonetheless. As our kiss is going on, Rias decides not to stand out as she starts to kiss and lick my neck and my ear. I can feel that wet and ticklish sensation on my neck, not just my neck but my ear also. After 20 minutes, Akeno and I finally separated. Akeno pants in satisfaction as she looks at me with a smile.
Akeno: Thank you Arto for the best morning kiss ever~
Arto: There will be more coming in the future now that I know you like French kissing so much.
Robin: Indeed, it took you long enough to figure that out.
Robin is now awake and she's looking at me with an anticipating eyes
Robin: Won't you give me a kiss, Darling~? Or is it that I am too old for you and you like young lips like Rias and Akeno?
Arto: Of course not, I can never leave you out ,you are one of my lovers after all, not to mention my most trusted assistance.
Robin: I am flattered, now girls, go get yourselves a shower while Mommy Robin and Daddy Arto spend some intimidating time together.
She said as she summoned many arms out of nowhere, those arms then wrapped themselves around Rias and Akeno, preventing them from struggling, the arms then sent the girls to the bathroom and kept the door closed while Robin got on top of me.
Robin: Now give me one hell of a kiss, my love.
Arto: You don't have to tell me twice.
I said as I put one of my hands on the back of her head, pulled her down as our lips smashed against each other. She even locks her arms around my neck, preventing me from escaping and deepening our kiss. After a moment, our tongues finally meet, they hesitate at first, but after a few greetings, they immediately wrap themselves around each other. Our tongues twirling around each other, I can feel her saliva pouring into my mouth, combined with her tongue that gave me her wonderful taste of blackberry. I tried to devour them all, however, some of them were able to leak out. As the time went on, I could feel Robin's mouth getting dryer, so I put my free hand on her back and flipped us over. Now I am on top of her as we continue our deep kiss, only this time, the saliva is going down to her mouth. I can hear Robin's light moaning in my mouth, this makes me want to keep going. 20 minutes later, we ran out of air, so we reluctantly let go of each other. I lift my lips from hers, leaving a trail of saliva connect us both, as I getting further from her, I can finally see Robin's blushing face, something I can never get tired of seeing, this beautiful face was only for me to see, I get closer to her, to the point our noses touch
Arto: You don't know how beautiful you are when you blush, Robin, I can never get tired of this scene.
Robin: Keep kissing me like that and you'll see this face quite often, Darling~
Arto: I'll keep that in mind, in the meantime *smooch* I love you, my Robin
Robin: *smooch*I love you too, my Arto.
She said as she got up and pulled my arm
Arto: Where are we going, Honey?
Robin: To the bathroom, of course. We are going to take a bath together~
Arto: I'll pass, you go ahead and enjoy with the girls, I take a shower later.
Robin: Suit yourself, Arto, you are no fun.
She said as she walked to the bathroom and unlocked the door, before heading in with Rias and Akeno. I sit back on the bed and, the taste of those kisses still lingering in my tongue, I sigh in satisfaction and lie back down on the bed, listening to the sound of water running in the bathroom where the girls are enjoying themselves. As the comfort was going on, I heard some knocks on a door with a voice of a butler
Butler: It's almost breakfast time, master and mistresses.
Arto: Yes, we'll be there, tell everyone don't need to wait for us.
Butler: Yes, my master
He said as he walked away. I get out of bed and go to the bathroom door
Arto: Breakfast is ready, are you done?
Rias: Almost
After about 5 minutes, the girls were done with their bath, they came out of the bathroom with towels around their bodies.
Robin: It's your turn, Darling~
Akeno: C'mon, don't keep us waiting~.
Arto: Roger, my loves.
I said as I got into the bathroom to grab a quick shower. After 10 minutes, I came out with a towel around my back, with an innocent mind that the girls had already departed for the dining room, but no, they were waiting for me in bed. As they saw me, I was quickly surrounded by my lovers. I can see they are all blushing as they run their fingers along the scars on my body.
Arto: Why do you like my scars so much, loves?
Robin: Because they have history with them, history about you, what you have been through: wars, fire, pain, blood.
Rias: Each one of them carries a story, a painful story about how you struggled with that cruel life of yours.
Akeno: And we want to help tend to these scars, make them fade, so that you can move on, to have a happy life.
Rias/Akeno/Robin: With us.
I can feel tears forming in my eyes as I hug 3 of them in my arms
Arto: My love, my life, my hope, my dream, you girls, you are all of them combined. All those years of suffering paid off. Thank you, thank you, for being in my life, for being my girlfriends, I love you all, my dearest.
Rias: We should be the one thank you Arto, for giving me knowledge
Akeno: For giving me a trust-worthty, reliable man
Robin: For giving me a home to come back to.
Rias/Akeno/Robin: We love you, Arto, always.
The next moments were spent in silence as we enjoy the group hug, enjoy the warmth I have lost for thousands of years, just like back then
???: I'll be there for you if there's no one there for you
I have found them, 'Dad', those that will be there for me, and I'll make sure to treasure them, to love them, to protect them, always.
Yelena: Breakfast time, love birds, everyone is waiting.
Arto: Right, sorry
After putting on some clothes, we follow "Head Maid" Yelena to the dining room and enjoy a light breakfast with Lord and Lady Gremory
Zeoticus: I heard that today you are heading to Sitri domain to visit Sona and her family
Arto: Yes, Lord Zeoticus, I promised Sona and her peerage that I would visit them. I also want to see Sitri's domain, what is it like?
Venelana: It is rich in nature, you can find many rare creatures in the Sitri domain. They also have one of, if not the best medical facility in hell.
Zeoticus: They also have a big auction house that sells many rare artifacts, sometimes, people.
Arto: Really, they sell people there?
Zeoticus: Indeed, nobles usually come there to buy peerage members, since what they auction there are very rare and powerful. There was a time I saw 2 high class devils auctioning over a powerful devil to the point they started using castles as payment.
My eyes widen hearing this, are the things sold there really that valuable?
Arto: I see, this trip will be interesting. But another matter, I still don't know what to give Lord and Lady Sitri as a present, will you help me?
Venelana: Of course, I have prepared something for you, bring them in
She said as some maids bring a basket of fruit and a bottle of wine in
Zeoticus: These fruits were grown and harvested inside the simulation room, the quality is unparalleled since we used new growing technologies, combined with the perfect environment inside the simulation room, Sena would love to taste these.
Venelana: And these bottles of wine are Sora's favorite, everytime he pays us a visit, he usually gets one or two bottles of these back home.
Arto: Thank you so much, Lord Zeoticus, Lady Venelana, I can't believe you went that far for me.
Zeoticus: This is nothing, you have done so much for us, you had a hand in growing the fruit you are seeing here, your simulation room make the quality of our crops one of a kind, the environment is tightly controlled by the simulation room so no disease could lay their hand on these plants, they are sold at a very high price on the market and they are showing dominance over other crops.
Venelana: Indeed, we have gained a lot from your effort, so this is just a little thing we could do for you, Arto.
Arto: I am glad my construction could be of use, I'll do better in the future.
Zeoticus: We are looking forward to it.
Arto: Now, it's time to say goodbye, I am departing to Sitri's domain now, see you later, Lord and Lady Gremory.
Zeoticus/Venelana: See you, Arto.
I then come to my girls and say goodbye to them
Arto: I'm going now my loves, don't miss me too much, okay?
Rias: Don't worry, Arto. We have each other.
Robin: We'll wait for your return.
Akeno: You can bring Sona and Tsubaki back with you, there are still some spare spots on our bed.
Arto: I'll keep that in mind.
I said as I gave each of them a kiss before departing.
3rd POV
As Arto got out of the dining room, Venelana turned to her husband
Venelana: I am surprised that you didn't insist Arto to call you 'Father', you usually do that when some boys that you think would fit Rias when they come to visit.
Zeoticus: I did, didn't I? But after a talk with Arto in the onsen the other day, I see that Arto values the word 'Father' a lot, he showed me his perspective on the word 'Father', he sees a 'Father' as someone who take care of him, love him and protect him unconditionally, not someone that gave birth to him, like the man that he called 'Creator', that bastard is the person that caused those scars on Arto's body, brought him up to become a obedient living weapon, isolated him from everyone around him, only to prevent Arto from betraying him. That's not a 'Father', that is a torturer. Arto was brought up that way, thousands of years from the day he was born.
Venelana: Oh my.......
Zeoticus: So until Arto deem me worthy to be his 'Father', I will not force it onto him, because just like his name 'Abyssgard', 'Father' is something that I must earn from him, I will not use that word indiscriminately with Arto.
Venelana: That's just ....... sad, his life was tragedy after tragedy, pain after pain, why did he have to suffer from all this?
Zeoticus: I don't know, but no one should've suffered from all this, Arto doesn't deserve all this, he is a smart, kind, and gentle boy, good manners, and treats everyone with respect. I'll make sure he gets what he deserves.
Venelana: We'll make sure he gets what he deserves, a loving family.
Zeoticus: Yeah........Oh look at the time, I gotta go now, love you Honey~
Venelana: Just that?
Zeoticus: Oh, right, sorry.
He said as they shared a deep kiss before Zeoticus teleported away.
Venelana: Don't worry, Arto, we'll be there for you, always
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto holding the basket of fruit while walking)
Arto has finally arrived at Sitri's domain and what appear before his eyes astounded me, this domain is mostly forest, there are only a few cities distributed far away from each other, but all of them are placed near a big river, bigger than Nile for sure that run through the middle domain, with many smaller branches spread across the whole land, bring water to every corner of the domain of Sitri clan. The closer Arto gets to the domain, the more he sees, the animals are roaming freely in the forest, many beautiful birds are soaring in the sky, the fish are jumping up and down the water surface, create a beautiful scene
Arto: And people call it hell.
The train Arto was riding on started slowly getting into the station, ending a wonderful journey. Arto is now in his tuxedo, walking to his destination, Sitri mansion, where his fiancée Sona and her peerage is staying right now, as Arto gets out of the station, there is a black limousine with a man in butler suit waiting for him.
Butler: Good day to you, master Arto Abyssgard, I am Bernardo, Lord Sitri ordered me to come pick you up.
Arto: Thank you Bernardo for coming to pick me up, did you have to wait for me?
Bernardo: Thank you for your care, master Abyssgard.....
Arto: Call me Arto.
Bernardo: My apology, master Arto, but I have just arrived 5 minutes ago.
Arto: That's good. Now, let us depart
Bernardo: At once.
Arto then get in the limousine with Bernardo close behind
Arto: So Bernardo, how long have you served Lord and Lady Sitri?
Bernardo: 200 years sir, I take up the role as the head butler after my senior passed away.
Arto: I see, how is Lord and Lady Sitri in your eyes Bernardo?
Bernardo: Lord Sitri doesn't talk a lot, he always remains stoic and calm, something that young mistress Sona inherited a lot from him. He doesn't express it but he loves his family a lot, always looks after mistress Sona, mistress Serafall and especially Lady Sena. No matter how busy he is, he always spends his night with Lady Sena, always visits mistress Sona on the weekends, calls mistress Serafall everyday to ask her about her work, and doesn't forget to tell her to sleep enough.
Arto: So a cold exterior hides a warm heart inside, I see?
Bernardo: Indeed, he has to be strong so that others cannot get the better of him, to protect his family, he has lost his parents and siblings in the Great War between factions, so he doesn't want the same to happen to his current family.
Arto: So that's the reason why this domain has the best medical facilities?
Bernardo: Yes, master Arto. Lord Sora couldn't save his family back then at the war, he always beats himself about that matter. This leads him to the idea to develop medicine in this land, so that no one has to suffer like he once was.
Arto: I see, what about Lady Sena?
Bernardo: Lady Sena is somewhat an opposite of Lord Sora, she compensates for every aspect in personality that Lord Sora lacks. She talks more, expresses her emotions more, you can see that in mistress Serafall, but it only happens in less formal events. Normally, she remains stoic like her husband. But one thing that they all have in common is that they all love their children very much, while Lady Sena takes care of mistress Serafall, Lord Sora does the same to mistress Sona and the other way around.
Arto: They are just perfect for each other, aren't they?
Bernardo: Yes, their love story is like a fairytale, I heard it from my senior head butler. Lady Sena was a doctor that tended to lord Sora's wounds in the war, soothed his soul while he mourned at his family's death. They fell in love from then on, lord Sora loves lady Sena deeply, to the point he refuses to have a harem because of her, many nobles send him their daughter's hand in marriage with many benefits but he refused them all for his beloved wife. Same thing happened with Lord Zeoticus and Lady Venelana.
Arto: Really? So that's why Gremory and Sitri are two of the strongest clans in hell but......
Bernardo: ......they don't have many allies, this is also the reason why Lord Sora and Lord Zeoticus are close friends, 2 of a few noble devils that don't have a harem.
Arto: I see, that's a great story, Bernardo. You are indeed a good butler. Just like him
???: Please, stop doing this, master Arto, this hurts me more than it hurts you.
Bernardo: Thank you for your compliment, master Arto. Ahh, we are here. Welcome to Sitri mansion, master Arto.
The mansion is large as heck, as expected from a noble clan, as the limousine stopped at the gate that leads to the mansion, Arto sees that Sona and her peerage are getting out of the mansion
Sona: We have visitors today?
Tsubaki: I don't know, I haven't received any report.
Tomoe: Who could it be?
Tsubasa: Could it be another proposal for your hand in marriage?
Reya: No, I will not give our President to anyone besides Arto.
Momo: Let's find out.
They said as they approached the limousine to see it opened, coming down from that car is Bernardo, the head butler of house Sitri and a certain someone in an elegant tuxedo.
Sona: Arto?
Tsubaki: So finally he decided to pay us a visit.
Tomoe: Damn, he looks so cool in that tuxedo
Tsubasa: I've gotta admit, Arto is really handsome in that outfit.
Reya: Well, he's all yours Sona.
Momo: What are you doing, President? Come greet him, he's here for you after all.
They turn to see Sona is all red, unable to say anything, she is just standing there, her eyes glued on Arto.
Arto: Hello everyone, I came to see you're doing
Arto said as he approached the group with a big smile and opened his arms for a hug. Everyone in Sona's peerage take turn to hug Arto
Tsubasa: Welcome to Sitri domain, Arto. *Brofist*
Tomoe: Good day to you, teacher Arto.
Reya: President couldn't stop talking about you these few days, I am glad you are here for her now
Momo: Yeah, she even said your name in her sleep, she was like 'Arto.....one more game.....I almost win'
Tsubaki: Took you long enough. *Smooch*
Arto: You know I'll be here for you eventually, but something happened. *Smooch*
Tsubaki: I know your fight with Razer Phenex, you really beat the crap out of him.
Arto: You guys watched that?
Tomoe: Of course we did, Miss Robin broadcasted it for us, you were so cool back there with that armor, they way your slashed your way through those lava giants was so epic
Tsubasa: You really made holes on his face with that fist of yours. That Phenex couldn't anything but scream in pain
Reya: You controlled his fire like it was your own, I couldn't take my eyes off the screen even if the battle lasted for hours.
Tsubaki: I personally love the scene where you shot down that flaming bird from the sky, Miss Robin's spying eyes really made the scene even better.
Momo: And you know who cheered the loudest for you?
Arto: Who? Tomoe?
Tomoe: I am nowhere near that.
Sona's peerage then look at the King who is still paralyzed
Tsubaki: Yeah, she cheers every punch you land on that bastard's body. She even refer to you as her future husband~
Arto: Well, because I am, now let me help my princess over here a little.
He said as he approach Sona whose face is now beat red and gives her a hug
Arto: What happened, Sona? Aren't you happy to see me?
Sona: No.....no, it's just......just.......
She said as she averted his gaze, turned her face to the side. Arto just put on a smile at the cuteness of the girl before him, he pressed his face closer to hers, nudged his nose at her cheek, this caused Sona's face to be redder than ever. He then places a kiss on her cheek, making steam fly out of her head as if Sona is overheated.
Tsubaki: You might want to stop, Arto, we don't want her to faint here.
Momo: Yeah, but can you blame her? Her prince is smoking hot.
Tsubasa: Arto, that's enough, Sona can't handle this much heat.
Arto: Right, let's take her somewhere cool so that she can blow off some steam.
He said as he pick Sona up like bride and walk inside the mansion
Reya: What a prince he is.
Momo: Yeah, he has the hero's vibe, or a knight's vibe to him, something girls really like.
Sona said nothing while being in Arto's arms, she just looked at him while wrapping her arms over his neck as he approached the mansion.
Arto: Bernardo, where are Lord and Lady Sitri?
Bernardo: By this time, I think they are enjoying their tea in the dining room.
Arto: Splendid, let's head there.
Arto said as he carried Sona follow Bernardo to the dining room. As they head in there, lord Sora is having tea while reading the newspaper and lady Sena is reading a book. As Sora and Sena notice Arto's presence, they greeted him with a smile
Sora: Welcome to our home, Arto. I see you are practicing carrying her for your wedding.
Sona: FATHER! It's not like that.
Sena: Not like what? I can see in your eyes how much you like Arto here, and I know you are screaming with joy in your mind because he's carrying you like this.
Sona: Mother!.......
Tomoe: Damn, Lady Sena reads president like a book, she can't hide anything from her mother.
Arto: Well, enough bantering, thank you Lord and Lady Sitri for having me here, I have some present for you all to enjoy.
Arto said as he put Sona down and reach inside his magical storage to pull out a large basket of fruit a 2 bottle of wine
Arto: Here are some fruits and wine as a present for you, Lord and Lady Sitri
Sora: Ah, my favorite wine, Zeoticus sure knows what to pick......
He said as he ordered his servants to put the wine away
Sora: ......I'll enjoy the wine later, but this, what do you think, Honey~?....
He said as he pointed at the fruits on the table. Lady Sena then takes a look at the fruit with a surprised look.
Sena: These fruits, they are weirdly ...... perfect, this smell, this color, is indeed the specialty fruit of Gremory domain, but the smell is more refined, the color is better as well.
Sora: I see, Bernardo, prepare these fruits for us, just cut them, I want to taste them as what they are.
Bernardo: Yes, my lord
Sena: Come have a seat everyone, let us enjoy these new fruits that Arto brought us today
Everyone: Right.
Sora: Arto, tell me about the presents that you brought us today.
Arto: Yes, these fruits are the ones that are grown and harvested inside the simulation room, using new growing technologies. The environmental condition is tightly controlled by the scientists of Gremory's research team inside the simulation room, the result is what you saw.
Sora: I see, so Zeoticus is using the simulation room for growing crops, no wonder the quality of these are so high.
Sona: Wait, why didn't we see it when we were in the simulation room?
Arto: Because you weren't in the right section of the simulation room.
Tsubaki: There are different sections in the simulation room?
Sora: Yes, you are not the only one who uses the simulation room, your training ground is just a section in the room.
Sena: As for now, there are 3 sections there: your training ground, Gremory's section and Sitri's section.
Arto: That's right, I wanna ask you a question, Lord Sora: how do you like the simulation room's quality?
Sora: I love them, everything about that simulation room, the possibilities it has is endless, we have been using it to make new medicine and new medical techniques and it's getting better by day. I cannot thank you enough for bringing this construct to us.
Arto: I am glad you like it. Another matter, I heard you had a discussion with lord Zeoticus about the new function for the simulation room.
Sora: Yes, our scientists were head over heels when they saw your blueprints for the time dilating function. After some calculations, this thing is possible to make and I'll be glad to invest in this project of yours again.
The dining room door opens, the servants bring plates of fruits in, the fragrance of them spread across the room, and attack everyone's nose.
Bernardo: Lords and Ladies, do enjoy these freshly cut fruits.
Sona: They smell so good~
Tsubaki: The color is one of a kind too.
They said as every uses their forks to taste the fruit
Tomoe: This sweetness......
Reya: This texture.......
Momo: Out of this world
Sora: This is very delicious, I dare say.
Sena: Good flavor, great texture, extraordinary smell, the scientists of Gremory clan really did their best, making these masterpieces.
Sora: The simulation room was utilized to its fullest capacity, at this rate, we have to try harder, can't let them get past us. And when the time dilating function is completed, our disadvantage of time will be no more, I'll get you by then Zeoticus
Arto: I never thought this would be a competition.
Sena: It has always been. Zeoticus and Sora constantly try to beat one another, they never stop, which is good, this helps develop both of the clan to be better. But they are still best friends.
Arto: A friendly competition, I see?
Sena: Yes, but not so friendly when their wives are the topic of the discussion. There was one time Zeoticus and Sora were drinking with each other, they almost fought because they were discussing whose wife is more beautiful. It took a lot of my and Venelana's effort to stop the two.
Arto: Both men take great pride in their wives, I see no problem with that.
Sena: Of course, me too, well, until you see them burn down one or two castles in their 'wife discussion'.
Arto is trying his best to hold his laughter because of their childish fight.
Sora: Hey, there's nothing to laugh about, Arto. You'll do the same when someone says their wife is better than yours. If that person wasn't Zeoticus, I would have ripped their head off. My wife is the best.
Arto: I've gotta admit, I'd do the same in your place, those bastards think they know more than us about a good wife.
Sora: See? I know, right?
Sena: Hey, don't follow his footsteps. You'll likely have more than 1 wife so getting into fights like that might wage a war, you know?
Arto: I know my limit, so please don't worry, Lady Sena. Besides, I won't abandon my precious Sona and get into needless fights.
Sora: Then I am glad you'll be better, but we still need time to test that out, you seem to be a person who will love your wives too much.
Arto: You saw right through me, lord Sora. I still need Robin to remind me to not overprotect my lovers.
Sora: Fufufu~ I see. Zeoticus, you, and I will be great friends. Say, Arto, care for a game of chess?
Arto: I would love to, lord Sora. Is this some kind of intelligence test?
Sora: No, just some friendly match. I don't need to test your intelligence, you have shown me enough with your projects and blueprints.
He said as he summon a crystal chess board
Sona: This will be interesting, a chess game between my father and my fiancé, two of the smartest people I know.
She thought as she came to sit with her mother, looking at the chess board, so did everyone in her peerage. Arto and Sora shake their hands before the game.
Sora: So before we start our game, I gotta ask you something, Arto: What is a game of chess to you?
Arto: It's war, Lord Sora, this chess board is a battlefield, we are the kings, command our troops to victory, there will be blood, corpses and pain.
Sora: Another similarity...... I see, you have been in a war before, haven't you?
Arto then take up the King piece
Arto: Yes, not just a war, I was in this King's place once, commanding my Legion into battle against the Abyss, watching my soldiers fall down one by one, but still gotta move on, no time for mourning, sadness, cause the war was still going on.
Sora: Abyssgard......I see, this chess board brings you sadness and bad memories.
Arto: Somewhat, but most of my good memories of my past life are no more, so this is not your fault, Lord Sora. Now, let us begin this game. Please don't hold back for me, Lord Sora, you know what they say "Hesitation is defeat"
Arto said as his eyes got sharper, like a wolf. Sora saw this and also got serious, his eyes sharpened as well.
Sona: They both get serious, this will be a fierce battle, go Arto, defeat my father.
Sena: They have so many similarities, but my beloved Sora will win eventually, show him his place, my husband.
And the game begins......
An hour and a half have passed, each side has a pawn left. Everyone, especially Sona and Sena are focusing on the game, no sound was heard in the room. Then Arto made a move, marching his pawn to the place where Sora's pawn can take it out. Sora seems to see Arto's intention as he takes the pawn using his pawn, Arto takes his chance and takes Sora's pawn using his King. Now, 2 Kings are facing each other, one square apart.
Sena/Sona: It's a draw, were you aiming for a draw, Sora/Arto?
Sora/Arto: Were you?
They said as 2 men bursted out laughing.
Sora: Of course we didn't aim for a draw, from the beginning.
Arto: This is war, we fight to win.
Sora/Arto: But.......
Sora: We saw your anticipating eyes, Sena, Sona.
Arto: And we couldn't make our ladies disappointed.
Sora/Arto: So a draw it is.
Sora: Besides, it's a fun game.
Arto: Why so serious?
They said as they shake each other's hand
Sora: Good game, Arto. You really exceeded my expectations.
Arto: Good game, Lord Sora. You are indeed a tough opponent
Tsubaki: What a game it is.
Tsubasa: It's like an action movie.
Sena: They are like brothers, close brothers, even though they have just met for a few times.
Sona: I like him even more now, my Arto
The chess board then disappear as Sora asks Arto
Sora: Talking about action movies, your fight with Razer Phenex a few days ago really astonished me.
Sena: Yes, are you sure you are a human, Arto? That speed and strength was extraordinary.
Arto: I can assure you I am a human.
Sora: You really taught that bastard a lesson, even when he's beaten into a bloody pulp, I can still see astonishment in his face.
Arto: He deserves as much, for forcing himself into other's life for political purposes.
Sena: So Arto, will you stay here for the night?
Arto: Of course, I will. I came here for my fiancée after all.
Sena: I see, then tonight you and Sona should sleep with each other.
Sona blushes profusely hearing this
Sona: Sle...sleep with Arto...Mother! I am not ready yet
Sena: You've got to be ready at some point. You'll marry Arto in the future so this is a perfect time to practice being by your husband's side.
Arto: C'mon, love, it's not that bad, you could ask Rias for more information if you want.
Sora: Besides, this is what you want, yes? Having the man you like so much all for yourself the whole night.
Arto: Just one night, okay? If you don't like it then we can stop this.
Sona embarrassingly nods.
Everyone: So cute uwu.....
And the day goes by pretty smoothly, Arto visits medical facilities of Sitri domain, meets the research team and has a long talk with them about experiments. Until bedtime.....
Momo: Goodnight, president, have a sweet dream with your man, alright?
Reya: Don't be too harsh on her okay, Arto?
Tsubasa: Yeah, or else I'll beat the crap out of you.
Tomoe: President is so lucky, having a fiancé like Arto, I wish I could have a prince for my own
Sena: Remember, you 2 are still students, so going over the limit is a no no.
Tsubaki: I'll put some condoms in the nightstand's drawer if the animals inside you 2 take over your mind.
Sona's cheek is as red as Rias's hair now as she heard this.
Sona: Hey, we just sleep with each other, there won't be anything else.
Arto: Thank you for your care, everyone, but there will be no limit crossing tonight. Now, will you give us some privacy? I need to get to know my future wife.
Everyone then leaves the room, Arto then uses his magic to close the door and approach Sona.
Arto: You don't need to sleep close to me if you don't want to, Sona. I know they want you to be happy but sometimes, it's a bit too much.
Sona: No, no, I want to sleep close to you, it's just that I am kind of embarrassed when everyone is looking.
Arto: I see, now there's no one around, you express yourself freely now, my Sona.
Arto said as he opened his arms, welcoming Sona to come in, Sona put on a smile as she jumped into Arto's embrace with light giggles. Arto then lay himself on the bed with Sona on his chest.
Sona: Soft yet firm, Arto is indeed a perfect hugging pillow, Rias wasn't exaggerating after all, I love this.
Arto: How do you like my chest, princess?
Sona: Don't call me that, it feels weird, just call me Sona, prince Arto.
Arto: Fine, fine, my beloved Sona.
As the two were cuddling, Arto vibrate, this make Sona vibrate too
Sona: What's happening?
Arto: I think they are calling to check on me.
Arto said as he took out a magic circle and launched it into the air, a screen appeared above where Arto and Sona are lying, in the screen appeared Rias, Akeno and Robin are lying in bed.
Arto: Hello, girls, how's it going? Do you miss me?
Akeno: Of course we do, that's why we call you.
Robin: To be with you until we sleep since you are not here with us.
Rias: You're so lucky Sona, having Arto all for yourself tonight.
Akeno: Maybe we should teleport there as well.
Sona: NO!! He's mine for the night, I will not allow it even if he has a harem.
Robin: That's the spirit, keep your man like that, we won't interrupt your sweet night with our man, but no limit crossing.
Arto: There won't be, why do people always have to warn me about this?
Akeno: Because we don't know what would happen in the night, just 2 people in a room, they might......
Sona: That's enough, go to sleep, goodnight, I need to spend my night with my future husband.
Sona then turns off the communication spell, and turns to Arto who has a smile on his face.
Sona: They are annoying sometimes.
Arto: I think they are really cute.
Sona: How could you handle them anyway?
Arto: When you are alone for an enough amount of time, you'll learn to appreciate people's presence around you.
Sona: How long?
Arto: To me, a few thousand years in the void were enough to make me hate being alone to my core, it makes me feel insecure, lonely,.......scared. I sometimes spend some time alone without Rias, Akeno and Robin only to remind myself of how important they are to my life.
Sona: I see, am I important to your life, Arto?
Arto: Of course you are, you are my class monitor, you are the one that prevents the boys from harassing me, you are the one who connects me with your family, and gives me the materials I need for my project. Most importantly, that counterfeit 'Dream mirror' you made me did its job flawlessly, I think Ryu still hasn't noticed that the mirror is fake. Now tell me, is that unimportant?
Sona said nothing as she buried her face deeper into Arto's chest.
Sona: Thank you, Arto, for being in my life, for being my teacher. It means so much to me.
Arto: Well, you're welcome, Sona. Look at you, really sleepy now, aren't you? Well see you in my dream, Sona.
He looks down to see Sons is already asleep, he just lightly kisses her hair before going to sleep with Sona in his arms.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Sona and Arto sleeping together)
The morning came in Sitri's domain, Sona and her fiancé were still sound asleep, hugging each other. A dark blue, fluffy, round bird then came into the room.
It lands at the nightstand and starts singing. The sound of the bird makes Arto's ears perk up as he slowly stir awake. He turns his attention to the little bird that is singing a beautiful melody. The Abyssgard reaches his hand out to pat the bird, surprisingly, it doesn't run away, but nudges its head into Arto's palm, still singing.
Sona: Nghhh......
Arto: Oh, right.
Arto then looks at the bird, he puts a finger over his mouth, gesturing the bird to keep it down, and to his surprise, the bird complies and stops singing.
Arto: You look weirdly familiar, little fella...... Wait, you're her favorite bird......
Arto thinks as he open his palm for the bird get in, he then gets a closer look at the bird
Arto: Small, cute feets, fluffy fur and wings, adorable round shape, beautiful singing voice......You remind me of her, my beloved [UNKNOWN], my first love, she like your kind so much......I even made a necklace with your image on it for her, but my gift never reached her......
As Arto was deep in thought, the bird flew out of his hand to his face and started nudging its cheeks against his, singing a sad melody, the bird seems to be trying to sooth Arto.
Arto: What the!?.........you know how I am feeling, little fella? You're that smart? You are one interesting bird, I wanna keep you as my pet.
As the thought of keeping the bird appears inside Arto's mind, the bird seems extremely happy as it uses its wings to hug his face, while still nudging his cheek, the melody is now happier.
Arto: You wanna be my pet? I see, my lovers would love to see you,...... Let's give you a name, shall we?
The bird nods in agreement.
Arto: You can read my mind and understand it? Fascinating. Alright, naming, what do you say Bob? *disagree* You are a girl, aren't you? *agree* A name for a female bird? Hmmm.........Radia? *agree* Then Radia it is then.
Arto said as he pets the bird.
Arto: You are so very cute, Radia..
Radia: *Chirp* *Chirp*
Sona: Nghh....5 more minutes.....
Arto: Sleep as much as you want, dear. I will not disturb you anymore. *Shhh* *Radia nods*.
Radia then flew to the window to close the curtain, in order for Sona to sleep.
Arto: Good job.
(Timeskip: Brought to you Radia sleeping on chibi Arto's head)
Half an hour had passed, and the princess of the Sitri clan had finally had enough sleep, she stirred awake to see Arto was playing with a strange bird. Seeing Sona awake, Arto places a kiss on her forehead
Arto: Good morning, Sona~
Sona unconsciously places a kiss on Arto's lips. This surprises him but he just shrugged it off
Sona: Good morning, who are you playing with, Arto?
Arto: Meet Radia, my new pet bird, she is very cute, she could even read my mind.
Sona: Huh? Really? *Radia nods*
Arto: See? She can even understand what we are saying.
Sona: I have never seen a bird like that before, it seems like one of the rare species.
Bernardo: Mistress Sona, master Arto, breakfast is ready.
Arto: Thank you Bernardo, we'll be there in minutes. So, shall we? *Offers his hand*
Sona: We shall. *Takes his hand*
And so the couple go to the dining room to enjoy their first breakfast together, of course Radia would follow her master to the dining room. When Arto and Sona come
Sora: Good morning, young couple, come join us for breakfast.
Sena: You two look so cute together.
Tsubasa: They really look like a married couple
Tsubaki: Indeed, president looks really happy as well, sleeping the whole night with the man she love~
Reya: Arto, what is that strange bird on your shoulder?
Tomoe: It looks so cute, can I pet it?
Arto: This is Radia, my new pet bird, I just adopted her this morning.
Sora: Wait, that bird.....
Sena: It's indeed a hell singer, a rare species of bird with an outstanding singing voice. Their voice can hypnotize their enemies, making it very hard to catch them in nature.
Sora: They are known to be friendly to whoever with good intentions since they can read people's minds and understand languages. But I have never seen a hell singer so attached to a person before.
Sena: They tend to like living and singing freely instead of being with a person. It's strange, really.
Tsubaki: Arto, can I pet it?
Radia then looks at Arto as he nods, she then flies to Tsubaki, landing on her lap as Tsubaki starts petting her, Radia closes her eyes in comfort to enjoy the sensation from Sona's Queen. Other members of Sona's peerage try to pet her but she refuses by hissing.
Sena: She really obeys you, Arto, this is indeed a fascinating event.
Sora: Now, Arto, what is your activity today?
Arto: I think I'll head to the auction house for a bit, I have heard so much about it, and I wanna go see it for myself, maybe buy something if I can afford it.
Sona: May I come with you?
Arto: Of course, change into something nice, we are going on a date, Honey~
Sona's face went red after hearing this.
Sena: I agree, you two should go together, to build up your relationship, you two need to know each other more, Arto is always with Rias and Akeno, this time is your chance to understand your fiancé.
Sora: The auction house should be open by now. I'll tell Bernardo to take you there. Arto here has quite some money from his projects and stray hunting so he might be able to buy something, but Arto, don't go too high, okay?
Arto: I know my limit, Lord Sora, I won't buy something I can't afford to. Now, will you let me take your daughter on a date to the auction house?
Sora: You have my consent, young man.
Arto: Thank you, lord Sora. And you, my beautiful Sona, will you go out on a date with me?
Sona: I....I....I do, Arto. I would love to go on a date with you.
Arto: Then it's settled, I'll be waiting for you at your door when you are done preparing.
Sona: Thank you, Arto.
Reya: So romantic.
Momo: How could Arto act so nobles?
Tsubaki: Because Arto used to be one of them, Abyssgard was considered nobles because of their wealth and power, despite their origin as a group of slaves.
Tsubasa: How did you know all this?
Tsubaki: Miss Robin told me about Arto's past life in another world.
Tomoe: No wonder he's so prince-like, well, too 'scars' for a prince but a prince nonetheless.
As the conversation in the dining room was going on, Sona is putting on a dress for her date with Arto
Sona: Will he like this, I wonder?......
As Sona was wondering, she saw Radia who was on her bed. Radia gestures to the door, like saying 'Why don't you just ask him directly?'
Sona: I guess you're right Radia.
She said as she opened the door to see Arto in his tuxedo waiting for her. Her face heat up seeing her fiance in that outfit, her speaking started to stutter
Sona: Do.....Do....... you.....you.......like.......this.....this.......outfit?
Arto: You don't need to be so nervous, you look beautiful Sona, why are you so clumsy when I am around? Is it because of this outfit?
Sona: It is, Arto. You look really good in this outfit, this makes me a little..........
Arto: You don't need to be nervous, I'm just the same old Arto you know. Shall we head out, my fair lady?'
Sona: We shall, my prince.
She said as she wraps her arm around his as they head out to the limousine
Sena: Our daughter is beautiful isn't she?
Sora: She inherited a lot from you, Darling~. You know, seeing her and Arto going out like that, it reminds of someone.......
Sena: .....us. They look so much like us back then, Sora. Where did we go on our first date, Darling?
Sora: Auction house, we bought this land from the auction house where our mansion is now.
Sena: Look like they are going on the same path as us, I hope they will be happy like us.
Sora: Considering Arto, I know they will.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the limousine going on the road)
Arto and Sona are finally here, in front of a large building, the auction house, they can see nobles in all kinds of fancy outfits heading inside the auction house. Arto and Sona both put on a mask before getting down the limousine, in order to prevent identity leaking. They don't want people to see Sona Sitri going together with a strange man. They have to communicate via a secured magical line made by Arto.
Bernardo: I wish you two have a great date, master Arto, mistress Sona.
Sona/Arto: Thank you Bernardo.
After saying their thanks to the butler, Arto and Sona get down the limousine and head to the auction house.
Sona: Have you ever been to an auction house before, Arto?
Arto: I have, but it's like a degraded version of this fancy auction house, slave market.
Sona's eyes widened hearing this.
Sona: Slave market?
Arto: Indeed, I came there to recruit troops for my legion. I used money to free people from their slavery and offer them a place in my legion. Most of them joined, some refused because they were just people who were kidnapped and turned into slaves, so I helped them return to their families.
Sona: What a hero you are, Arto. Saving those slaves, giving them a home, helped them return to their family.
Arto: Am I? I think I am just buying people.
Sona: It's more than that, Arto.
The conversation went on as they headed into the auction house.
They take a seat next to each other as the auction session begins.
Auctioneer: Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen, we are glad to have you here today for this auction session. Now let us start with......
The auction session went on, artifact after artifact was sold
Arto: How can they value that thing highly?
Sona: I know, right? Sometimes I don't understand what people think when they chose to buy that thing
Arto: They don't have any use practically, they are just trash that have been there for years.
Sona: And those nobles want to take those trash home. This is just a way for them to launder money......
The conversation went on as Arto and Sona mocking the artifact that they sell in the session. The auction session is coming to an end, the auctioneer is now announcing the last thing they sell for the day.
Auctioneer: Now we are heading to the last of today's session. Behold.....
A cage is pushed into the center of the auction house, inside there is a black haired woman in chains with amber eyes, a white pair of horns, a black swan wings and a white long dress. This caused Arto and Sona to widen their eyes.
Auctioneer: A succubus virgin.
Notes:
To be continue....
Chapter 15: The Succubus
Summary:
Arto, Sona and the Succubus
Notes:
She is finally here, the beautiful Succubus of ours
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Auctioneer: Now we are heading to the last of today's session. Behold.....
A cage is pushed into the center of the auction house, inside there is a black haired woman in chains with amber eyes, a white pair of horns, a black swan wings and a white long dress. This caused Arto and Sona to widen their eyes
Auctioneer: A succubus virgin
Sona: A succubus virgin?
Arto: Indeed, a succubus is born a virgin, they only get submitted to lust after they lose their virginity. Their appearance before getting tainted by lust is like this.
Sona: What is so special about them?
Arto: They are insanely strong, both in strength and magic. Only when they turn into true succubus, they get weaker because they just forgot everything they know and pursue pleasure in lust. Their magic abilities gradually change to hypnotizing type, to seduce their prey. So the price of a succubus virgin is extremely high. They are rare and strong. Succubus usually lose their virginity at the age of under 20, about 16-18, so a succubus at this age still being a virgin is really rare.
Sona: I see. So that's why they get hunted so much.
Arto: Yes, noble devils want her in their peerage, she usually carries the role of a Rook or a Bishop, Queen even because of her power. She is also a great lover for their King because of her alluring beauty and incredible bed-skill.
Sona: But if they lose their virginity, they will get weaker, so is this a loss?
Arto: No, it's not a loss, it's the opposite, it's a win, because of one thing.......succubus virgins can fall in love.
Sona: Huh!?
Arto: Yes, a succubus virgin can fall in love with a man. When a succubus gets submitted to lust, she will have sex with any man she randomly gets interested in and leave when she has her fill. But this isn't a thing for a succubus virgin, she has a clear sense of love and lust. She can distinguish them clearly, unlike succubus, who falls fully to the lust side.
Sona: But it still doesn't answer my question.
Arto: We're getting there. If a succubus loses their virginity to the man she loves, her power will be maintained, she will not get weaker, her power will be the same.
Sona: So that's how it is.
Arto: But this also comes with a catch
Sona: What is it?
Arto: That succubus will be bound to the man she loves, she will love him and only him, stays loyal to her love forever, until the day she dies.
Sona: And what is so bad about it?
Arto: She will love him no matter what he does to her, the man can beat her, abuse her, starve her, torture her, abandon her, but she still loves him, she can't get out of that relationship. They will never be free like the normal succubus. Worse, if the man refuse her love or abandon her, she will die a slow and painful death, because you know, succubus draws energy from emotion of others to live, so if the source of her life energy is no more, she will die, she can't even get energy from other man because she has devoted herself to the man that abandons her or refuse her.
Sona's eyes widen hearing this
Sona: That's a curse. A curse of love.
Arto: With a right man, it's a blessing, but with the wrong man, as you said, a terrible curse.
Auctioneer: The starting price for this succubus is 10 millions.
???: 11 millions
The light shine to a blond man in a red vest
Auctioneer: I have 11 millions bid from Lord Riser Phenex..........
Arto: Riser Phenex!?
Sona: Yes, Arto, that douchebag over there is Rias's fiancé.
Arto: I see, Radia?
Arto calls as the bird appears on his shoulder
Arto: Radia, you can read people's minds right? *She nods* Can you tell me what that blond bastard Riser is thinking?
Radia nods and look at Riser, after a moment she turns to Arto and open her beak to his ear
Riser: 'Look at that figure, I'll have a fun time playing with her body, this is indeed a high quality toy, I'm tired of playing with normal succubus or my peerage members, they said that a succubus virgin will give better feelings. F*cking that virgin pussy will be one of a kind feeling, and that tits also, my favorite size and shape, I can squeeze them all night. I can only imagine when I put my cock in between those juicy breasts, ahhhh, pure pleasure. She will be a fine toy to entertain me until Rias Gremory comes. Ohh, having sex with Rias and this succubus at the same time will be fun. Maybe I can hold a sex party for me and the boys, they would love to have a few rounds with this bitch here. The feeling of gangbanging her arouses me to the core. Maybe I'll invite my father to enjoy this party as well. Unlike Ruval and Reos, father is the only person in this house who knows how to have fun. F*cking this succubus might help him forget his unfortunate defeat against that bastard bodyguard of Grayfia. And this party will be even better when Rias comes, she will be a fantastic toy for me, father and our allies to enjoy. I promised them they can have their ways with Rias as much as they like when she becomes my wife. A sweet wedding night is waiting for me, having the Gremory heiress and a succubus virgin serving my cock will be one of a kind experience. Ahh, never ending pleasure is waiting for me with those beauties as my wives, we can have sex anytime, anywhere as I like, sex parties with Rias and that succubus as the main characters can be held everyday, not just pleasure, they will bring us new allies. Who wouldn't want to have sex with those fine bodies, just imagine it makes me wanna cum.' 20 millions.
Auctioneer: Did I hear 20 million? Yes, it's 20 millions from Lord Phenex for the succubus, anyone else? Anyone else? Did I hear 20,5 millions? Yes, we have 20,5 millions from Lord..........
Sona: That's.......That's.......That's........disgusting, that sick bastard, he wants to turn Rias into a sex toy not just for him, but his father and allies as well..........Arto?
She said as she looked at Arto, even though he is wearing a mask, she can see him fuming with anger as he radiates a dark, scary aura. Arto is holding a knife tightly in his hand, to the point it's going to be broken anytime.
Sona: Arto, please calm down, I know you are angry, I am angry too, but we must not spoil our identity here, it might affect Rias's chance against him.
She said but it seems Arto didn't hear her, he is starting to summon his sword to end that Phenex life once and for all. Sona then scream in her mask, in hope to stop the Abyssgard
Sona: ARTO! ARTO! Please calm down, for me, for Rias, what if he escapes from your attempt? Rias might not be able to get out of this and what he thought will become reality. ARTO!
Riser: 24 millions.
Seeing the sword slowly manifesting, she realizes something, Arto is fighting himself as well, normally, he can summon his sword in milliseconds, he is trying to calm down too. Sona takes the chance when everyone is focused on the auction for the succubus, she gets on his lap and removes their masks and pins his arm down his seat, she can now see his face, his pupils is running in chaos, his jaws are tightly bitten into each other, his breathes is heavy as hell, one of his hand is making hand signs, it's like he's choosing a spell to kill Riser as painful as possible while the other one is summoning the sword. His lips are muttering something, not a spell, but words 'my Rias', 'bastard', 'stay away',.......
Sona: Don't worry, Arto, I'll get you out of this,
She said as she cast a light sedative spell on Arto, to calm him down, she used her water magic to reduce Arto's body temperature, to cool him down, not only that, she even uses water to keep him in place and immobilize his finger, prevent him from doing anything stupid.
Riser: 26 millions.
Hearing Riser's voice, Sona has an idea: she uses water to block Arto's ears, keeping him from hearing that disgusting voice of the Phenex. Sona then cups Arto's face in her palms and touches their forehead together.
Sona: Calm down, calm down, my beloved, I am here, we will not let this happen, I promise, but save your anger for another day, Arto. Do it for Rias, your Rias, our Rias. He will have to pay for this, but not today, not today. Arto, come back to me, my love, your Sona needs her gentle, kind, composed and calm fiancé back. Please, Arto, come back to me.
Her voice seems to have reached him as his pupils started to slow down, his breath is lighter, slower, his jaws let loose.
Arto: Sona?
Sona: You're back, you're back to me Arto. I'm so glad, my beloved.
She said as she hugged him. Arto wraps his arms around her as well.
Arto: Thank you, Thank you Sona for calming me down. I can't.......
Sona: Save the thanking for later, now what are you going to do, Arto? Will you let Riser get what he wants?
Arto: Of course not.
He said as he put on his mask again. Sona realizes that her man is back, so she puts on a smile as she gets down from his lap. Arto stood up and looked at the succubus before turning on the mic he was given to make a bid when getting inside this auction room.
Arto: 100 millions.
Auctioneer: Did I hear it right, 100 millions for the succubus? Yes, it's true, Lord A. has made a 100 millions bid. Anyone else? I have 100 million here. Can I get 101 million? 101 million, anybody? 100 million still, going one, going twice.........
Riser: 102 millions.
Auctioneer: There we have it, 102 millions from Lord Riser Phenex for our beautiful succubus here. Anyone else? 103 million, anyone?
Arto: 105 million.
Auctioneer: Splendid, Lord A. has raised to 105 millions. Can we go higher than 105 million? Anyone?
Riser: 107 million.
Auctioneer: We are having a one on one battle between Lord Riser and Lord A. here, 107 million for the succubus from Lord Riser. Will Lord A. get another one from Lord A? 107 million, 107 million, anyone? 107 million going once.......
Arto: 111 million
Auctioneer: Lord A. has finally made his bidding, 111 million it is, a beautiful number for a beautiful succubus virgin. Which of the men will have her as his belonging? Looks like Lord A. is taking the lead with 111 million, does anyone want to rise against Lord A.'s 111 million? Anyone? 111 million going once, 111 million going twice.......
Riser: 112 million
Auctioneer: Did I hear it right? 112 million? Yes, it is, 112 million from Lord Riser Phenex. This auction is getting crazy, 112 million for a succubus, a new record has been made. Does Lord A. want to top that?
Arto: 120 million.
Auction: Yes he does. Lord A. came in strong with 120 million for the succubus. 2 men fighting for the woman in this cage. We have 120 million from Lord A., a new record. Anyone want to go higher than 120 million, 120 million? Anyone? 120 million going once, going.....twice.......and.......sold to Lord A., this succubus is sold to lord A. at 120 million.
Riser looks at the man in the mask with hateful eyes.
Riser: That bastard, took my toy away from me, just who the f*ck are you, A.? If Riser finds out your identity, you're doomed, for taking away Riser's woman, taking away Riser's fun time.
Arto: That's for having those thoughts about my Rias, you bastard.
Auctioneer: That's the end for today's auction session, what an auction we have today, full of surprises. Goodnight Ladies and gentlemen.
After the auction session ends, and everyone is taking their leave, Arto's phone vibrates, it's the message from the auction house
Message: 'Good day to you Lord A., congratulations for your successful bidding today, to officially claim the succubus as your own, come to the Post-Auction Office at *address* to complete the payment'
Another call came as Arto was reading the message, it's Bernardo.
Bernardo: I hope you have a great date, master Arto, I am waiting for you and mistress Sona at the entrance.
Arto: Thank you, Bernardo, we did have a great date. We will be there shortly.
Bernardo: Yes, my master.
Arto: Sona, you come to Bernardo first, I'll go complete the payment then I catch up to you. We don't want attention, right?
Sona: I understand, don't make me wait too long, okay?
Arto: I won't, you're my savior today after all.
He said as he kissed Sona on her lips, this surprised Sona for a moment but she quickly wrapped her arms around his neck to blend into the kiss with her fiancé. After a few minutes, they finally let go of each other. Sona is blushing hard after the kiss but she is smiling beautifully.
Arto: I hope you like my 'thank you' gift, my dear Sona.
Sona: I love it, Arto. You don't know how jealous I am when you kiss Rias, Akeno and Robin.
Arto: I'm always ready for a kiss, so don't hesitate to ask. We are meant to be husband and wife after all.
Sona: I'll keep that in mind. *smooch* See you in the car.
Arto: Right after you, my future wife.
As Sona gets out of the auction room, Arto puts on his mask again as he ventures to the office to make his payment. After a few minutes, he is finally here, the Post-Auction Office. Arto knocks on the door, and after a few moments, an employee comes to greet him.
Employee: Greeting, you must be Lord A., you came to make the payment for the succubus you bought today? Please come in.
Arto heads inside the office to see a certain someone who is making his payment for what he bought today, Riser Phenex. Hearing 'Lord A.', Riser stands up and turns around, facing Arto who is still in the mask.
Riser: You did well today, A., taking away Riser's woman, it's rude to get something that doesn't belong to you, you know?
Arto: She wasn't yours to begin with, Riser, I bought her with my money, unlike you, taking money from your old man's vault to buy useless stuff.
Riser: What did you say!?
Arto: You heard me. Come on, get out of the way, I need to pay for MY succubus to take her home.
As Arto walks past Riser, he uses his hand to grab Arto's shoulder, making his vest burn because of the fire in Riser's hand.
Riser: You know the consequences of provoking the immortal phoenix, right, A.?
Arto: *push Riser's hand off his shoulder* Why don't you show me? I haven't even asked you for the compensation for my vest, it's new, you know? Oh, of course you don't know, how could you know the feeling of buying something with the money you made yourself, you parasite?
Riser: You're dead you bastard.
Riser was about to attack Arto as he turn back but a voice came in when Riser's fist is a few centimeters away from Arto's face
???: Gentlemen!
Riser looked to the door to see an old man in a dark colored stripe vest with red undershirt and tie.
Employees: Director!
Director: Good day to you all.
He then approaches Arto and Riser
Director: Good evening, Lord Riser *Offers his hand*. You had quite a successful auction today.
Riser: *Takes the Director's hand* Good evening Director, I had, but still....... there's something that got in my way.
Director: I'm sorry you had a low ending with that beautiful succubus. But no reason to cry over spilled milk, right? You are one of our most loyal customers. I'll let you know when we have something better next time, alright? She is not the only succubus virgin in this world. There will be more for you to buy next time.
Riser: Thank you, Director.
Director then approached Arto with a smile, he put his hand on Arto's shoulder, and healed his vest for its original form before offering him a handshake.
Director: Good day to you Lord A., I am Stanford, the auction house's director. Congratulations for your successful bidding today. What do you think of the service's quality here? Because I see this is the first time you come to my auction house.
Arto: Thank you Director Stanford, you have keen eyes, it's indeed my first time coming to this auction house. And I must say, the service here is amazing, every employee is friendly and the seat is comfortable. Will you help me send a thank you to the cooks? The food and drinks were outstanding. I had a wonderful time here.
Director: I'm glad you like your time here, I'll make sure to send your compliment to the cooks. Back to our matter, my apology for my VIP customer's attitude, Lord A., men tend to be hot headed sometimes. I hope this doesn't affect your opinion toward us. We'll offer you a free ship for your product today as an apology, what do you say?
Arto: There is no need for that, I will take my woman home myself, I'm having a limousine waiting for us anyway. But thank you for your kindness nonetheless, Director.
Director: I see, but we still insist on doing something for you as an apology. I feel uncomfortable when I make a mistake and do nothing to make up to it. So how about this? *turns to his employees* Bring me the invoice for Lord A. 's buying today.
Employee: At once, Director.
After a moment, the invoice is in Stanford's hand.
Director: I'll give you a discount for your invoice today, from 124 millions total to a beautiful number you offer for the beautiful succubus, 111 million. How about that?
Arto: That's so generous of you Director, how can I resist such good will from you? I agree with this settlement, a beautiful number for a beautiful woman, it's perfect.
Director: I am glad you like it, Lord A. . How would you like to pay?
Arto: With my debit card, of course.
Arto said as he handed Stanford his card.
Director: Thank you, Lord A. . Do you want to check the product before making payment?
Arto: Of course, I want to see the woman I bought first.
Director: Very well, Lord A. . Bring her in.
After a few minutes, the door of the office opened, revealing the succubus, still in chains and cage.
Director: Have a check, Lord A. . Sorry we can't let her out to talk to you, security problem.
Arto: I understand, but this is more than enough.
Arto said as he stood up and approached the cage with the succubus inside. As he comes closer, the succubus seems a bit hesitant as she steps back, until she hits the cage, she can't go anywhere anymore as the man before her reaches inside the cage with his hand and touches her face. She feels the gentle touch of the man on her face as she lets him keep rubbing her cheek with his thumb. He then strokes her long black hair, which she doesn't resist. After a few touches, Arto turns back to the Director.
Arto: Thank you for the checking session Director, she is indeed very healthy with no health problems. Scan that card, I am eager to take her home with me.
Director: Excited, aren't you? Proceed the payment for Lord A.
Employee: At once, sir.
After a few minutes, the payment is completed, the money is sent, and the receipt is printed.
Employee: Everything is done, Director, Lord A.
Director: Splendid, one last thing, Lord A., put your hand out please.
Arto reaches his hand to the front, the Director puts his hand over Arto's and a magic circle appears, next moment, Arto feels a light burn on his hand. After that, he sees a faint mark on his hand, but it quickly fades away.
Director: Done, now, put a seal on her.
An employee then goes behind the succubus and makes a magic circle, she screams in pain as the seal is burned on her skin.
Director: Everything is set, Lord A. . She is all yours, you're free to do whatever you want with her, she can never resist your order.
He said as he gave Arto a set of 2 keys.
Director: Get your woman, she's officially yours now, Lord A.
Arto: Thank you, Director, it's about time, I have waited all day for this moment, for my woman.
He said as he used a key to open the cage and the second one to release the succubus from chains. He offered her his hand which she took and got her out of the cage.
Arto: You are so beautiful, my dear, let me take you to your new home. *She reluctantly nods*
Arto: *turns to the Director* It's good doing business with you, Director. I hope we can meet again in the future.
Director: I am looking forward to it, Lord A. . I hope you have a great night with your new love.
Arto: Thank you, now I must bid you farewell, my driver is waiting for me.
Director: Have a safe trip, Lord A. .
Arto and the succubus then get out of the room, leaving Stanford and Riser behind.
Riser: Why did you stop Riser, Director? Riser was about to teach that bastard a lesson, he took that high quality vagina away from Riser. She should have been mine, Riser should be the one who will fuck her tonight, not him.
Director: The one who would learn the lesson if I didn't step in is you, Riser. That A. is stronger than you, way stronger than you. You don't have a chance against him.
Riser: What do you mean? No one can stand a chance against mighty Riser. You're just hallucinating.
Director: Whatever, just don't mess with something or someone you don't know. You arrogant, stupid bastard, blinded by lust and anger. No wonder your father likes you so much, you're a replicant of him. But even that man is still smart enough to not let you take over the clan.
Riser: You talk too much, old man. Bye bye for now, I need to blow off some steam to forget about my failure today against that bastard A.
Arto and the succubus are now in the limousine where Sona is waiting.
Sona: What took you so long?
Arto: I met Riser when making my payment.
Sona: I'm glad you didn't turn the whole office upside down by beating him.
Arto: I was about to, but my fiancée is waiting for me, and beating him might take too long.
Sona: Your mouth...... *smooch*
Arto: I see no problem with it *smooch*
Sona: Now let us, head home, Bernardo
Bernardo: Yes, my mistress.
The limousine then started to head home, on the trip, Arto and Sona happily talked to each other and with Bernardo while no word could be heard from the succubus. As the limousine stops at the entrance of the Sitri domain, Arto and Sona get inside, with different masks on and the succubus follow close behind Arto, also with a mask on and a different appearance because of Arto illusion spell. The three quickly got inside the house, took off their disguise, and were greeted by Lord and Lady Sitri.
Sora: Ahhh, you're home, how was your date?
Arto: It was a lot of fun and laughter.
Sena: Anything else?
Arto and Sona both point at their lips
Sona: So you had your first kiss with your fiancé, very good, it's a sign that you'll be a happy couple.
Sona: Thank you, mother, we'll try our best.
Sora: Dating aside, who is the girl that is hiding behind you, Arto?
Arto: Right, this girl is a succubus virgin that I bought today at the auction house.
Sora: Succubus virgin, strong, smart, loyal, it's a good investment.
Sena: Not only that, good body, exceptional bed-skill, she can be one of your wives, Arto. Have you known her name?
Arto: I'm about to find out. *Turns to the succubus* Let us have a proper introduction, okay?
Succubus: Yes, my master.
Arto, Sona, and the succubus then retreat to Arto's room's room. They close the door and start the conversation, lucky for them, everyone in Sona's peerage is now asleep so there won't be as much commotion. Arto and Sona are sitting on the chairs while the succubus is sitting on the bed.
Arto: Now, we are finally alone. Let us start the introduction, me first. My name is Arto Abyssgard, I'm a human and an ally of the Sitri clan.
Sona: And I am Sona Sitri, heiress of Sitri clan and Arto fiancée.
Arto: What about you, dear? What is your name?
Succubus: Greeting my master, I am Albedo, I am your very own succubus.
Arto: Good day to you, Albedo. May I ask why you were in the auction house as one of the products?
Albedo: I was kidnapped, those hunters kidnapped me from my sisters and put me in chains to limit my power, then I was brought to the auction house for sale.
Arto: I see. So, do you want to return to your sisters, Albedo?
Sona: He's doing it again. Freeing those in chains. It's like to him, the big money he paid to buy her was nothing, and he will happily agree to let her go if she wants to. Arto, how could you be so kind?
Albedo: I would love to, but didn't you pay a lot of money to buy me? Are you just going to let me go like that? I belong to you, my master, you own me.
Arto: Of course I am not going to let you go just like that, turn your back to me, Albedo.
Sona: Arto, are you gonna.......
Arto: Yes, I'll do it before letting her go, I paid so much for her so I have the right to do so.
Albedo: So he's going to take my virginity before setting me free, why does he want to do that? I don't know, but if this means I can go back to my sisters, I am willing to pay with my virginity, he paid so much to buy me, so he does have the right to do so.
With that thought in mind, Albedo turns her back to Arto and Sona and starts taking off her dress in the astonishment of Arto and Sona. After few moments, Albedo is now fully naked as she turn her head to a side and speak
Albedo: I am ready, my master, please take me. I will forever be grateful to you for letting me go, setting me free to go back to my sisters, so let me serve you just this once as your property, as the woman you bought with so much money. Feel free to do it with me as long as you want, as much as you want, let my virginity be a thanking gift for all the money you pour in to set me free from those chains in that auction house.
Arto: What are you doing Albedo? Why did you take off your clothes?
Albedo: Aren't you going to take my virginity?
Sona: Of course not, Arto is not that kind of person, he told you to turn your back to him so he can remove that slave seal on your body.
Arto: To totally set you free, I need to break the constraint between us. That way, you don't have to worry about me anymore and you can live freely and happily with your sisters.
Albedo: I don't believe it, this is just too good to be true, why do you have to do this, my master? How could you be so kind?
Arto: Because I paid to buy you, Albedo, and I have the right to do whatever the hell I want with you, even setting you free, so sit tight, it might be a bit painful, but there will be no scar. Your beautiful body will be maintained for the lucky man you'll fall in love with in the future.
Sona: Oh Arto........You are making woman fall for you again
Arto: Let me see your mark.
Arto: Ah, this one, this might take some time, Radia, sing a song for us, a song about freedom.
Radia: *Chirp chirp*
And the music was played by the fluffy hell singer, Arto and Sona get closer to the mark as Arto creates a magic circle as he starts to remove the mark from Albedo's body. As he does it, he instructs Sona the way to do it also.
Albedo could feel some light pain like needles pinning on her back, but all that pain couldn't make her stop thinking about him, the man behind her, Arto Abyssgard.
Albedo: How could you be so kind, Arto? You paid a mountain of money to buy me, then did nothing to me and just let me go, you just paid 120 million to buy my freedom, how can I pay back for what you have done for me? You don't even know me, yet you still pay to set me free, let me go back to my sisters, without asking anything in return. No calculation, no scheming, no nothing, just genuine goodness.
Arto: And~~ done. Now Sona, it's your turn, lift the invisible mark on my hand.
Sona: Got it.
Albedo turns back to see Arto instructing Sona removing the mark on his hand, because the mark is invisible so she is struggling while Arto just laughs and instructs her.
Arto: Here.....
Sona: I know that.
Arto: You totally poked the wrong spot.
Sona: it's invisible, the mark you removed is visible, what do you expect?
Arto: At this rate, the title of 'smartest student' will stay with Robin for a long time to come.
Sona: Who said that? I'll prove it to you. *pokes*
Arto: Wrong again *giggles*
Sona: Arto, you meanie, do it yourself. *pouts*
Arto: You are so cute when you pout like that, my princess. This make me want to tease you more *pinches her cheek*
Sona: Arto! Stop that, hey, it's painful, stop that, Arto.
Albedo: They are so cute together, that just pure genuine love of two people, no tint of lust was found, just......love. This puts a smile on my face. As I remember, all the men in that auction house looked at me with their eyes full of lust, especially that Riser Phenex, he looked at me like will immediately rape me after getting me out of that cage. But Arto is different, he has no lust in his eyes, the way he looks at me when he checks on me at the office was pure care. He touched my cheek and stroked my hair to examine my health's condition, that's why I let him touch me like that. As I remember, my fellow succubuses who were sold here, the first thing they touched was her breasts and her butts to see if she is suitable for their liking in sex. Next is her vagina, some even try to put their cock inside them to test the feeling before deciding to buy or not, if it's not to their liking, she will be put in chains again to be sold to another person.
Sona: Done, now praise me.
Arto: You're so smart, princess Sona, you really live up to the name as one of my smartest students.
Sona: Not your smartest?
Arto: To be fair, you are nowhere near Robin, so you gotta try harder.
Sona: Yeah, yeah, Robin is always the best, you love her the most right?
Arto: How could you say that? I love you girls all the same.
Sona: Alright, enough bantering, let's turn our attention to our succubus here, shall we?
Arto: "Our", you mean "my" Succubus.
Sona: Hey, half of the money you made is from my family, so "Our"
Arto: *Sigh* Fine, "our".
Sona: So, Albedo, now the seal has been fully removed.
Arto: You can go back to your free life with your sisters now.
Albedo: Before I go, may I ask you a question, Arto?
Arto: Yes, go ahead, what is it?
Albedo: Why did you do this? Why did you free me? Why did you let me go so easily? Why did you treat me with so much kindness and compassion?
Arto: Because I have the right to...........
Sona/Albedo: NO! NOT THAT!
Albedo: I know that's not the reason why you do it. It can't just be your sudden want
Sona: You always hide it, but I know, there's something deep beneath that shallow reason.
Sona/Albedo: So tell us, Arto, please.
Arto: *sigh* Fine, I'll tell you why. Because I too, was in their position once, like you, Albedo, and all those slaves that they imprisoned and sold like products. When I saw those eyes of your, eyes of utter despair, I saw myself, being stuck in a loop of torture day after day, being forced to fight the battle I don't want to, being forced to kill the people that have nothing to do with me, to serve other's ambition. Even if after I got out of those chains, others were put on me, chains of duty, chains of responsibility as a leader, I must take on what's left behind by those before me and keep going forward, no space for my want, no space for my dream, no space for my love, I was like a slave to my duty as a leader. I can't get out, my troops need me, the world I used to live needs me, and so I move on, struggling, fighting with all I have, in hope that when everything is done, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, so that I can be free, but it never happened. After the war was concluded, after we got our victory, I got imprisoned again, inside the void, forced to experience loneliness for thousands of years until I ended up here, my new home, the light at the end of the tunnel, where I can finally find some space for my want, my dream, my love, there are still duties and missions, but not as much as my past life. So when I see you, Albedo in that cage, like all the slaves I saw at the slave market, I saw acceptance, that you have accepted to be a product that will be passed through by person after person. I can't let that happen again, can't let you suffer like me, so I chose to free you, and all those slaves I saw, so that you can decide your path, your own life.
Arto looks up to see Sona and Albedo are all in tears as they come to hug Arto tightly. The next moments were spent in silence, just Sona and Albedo hugging Arto.
Arto: Can you two let me go now? I need to sleep, it's late
Sona/Albedo: Nope, my fiance/master.
Arto then shakes out of their embrace and look at Albedo
Arto: Now, Albedo, you are free to go, get back to your freedom and your sisters. Your freedom is worth 120 million, so use it wisely, alright?
Albedo then puts on a light smile and puts on her dress before heading to the window and spreads her wings. Before taking off into the sky, she turns back to Arto with teary eyes.
Albedo: Arto, can I visit you again sometime?
Arto: Anytime, it's your life after all, feel free to do as you like.
Albedo: Thank you, thank you, Arto, I'll forever be grateful to your kindness. Goodbye.
She said as she took off into the sky and disappear.
Sona: Arto, why did you do that, Arto?
Arto: Do what?
Sona: Answer that way, you know, "I bought you, so I have the right", you have good reasons for freeing her, why did you talk like shooing her away like that?
Arto: Because I don't want her to feel grateful to me.
Sona: What!?
Arto: Exactly what I said, I don't want her to feel grateful to me, it will create a sense of responsibility, which makes her want to stay by my side to make up for what I did for her, that's against her will. I don't want her to be bound by those feelings.
Sona: I see, so you want her to be free to decide her life, like Grayfia, but if she truly wants to be with you, if she truly loves you, will you give her a chance to come back to your side, will you accept her?
Arto: Of course I will.
Sona: Then I am glad. C'mon, it's so late already, let's get some sleep.
Arto: Agree.
Arto and Sona then get in the spooning position as they are slowly driven into slumber. Unknown to the couple, a certain succubus heard all of their conversation before heading to bed
Albedo: Fufufu~ Your effort was futile, Arto, you're just making me fall faster for you. Now I think I know who is the lucky man that I'll fall in love with in the future. But first, I need to do as he said, enjoy my life to the fullest before coming back to his side, my master~.
Notes:
That's the end of the auction house story, Albedo will come back to our MC in the future, like Grayfia. Next story will be a day off for everyone to enjoy themselves
Chapter 16: The day off
Summary:
A day off where every character of ours enjoy themselves
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
I slowly open my eyes because of Radia's singing, is it morning already? As my eyes fully opened, I saw my fiancée Sona in front of me. She's still sleeping even though Radia is singing, I place a nice kiss on the back of her head before getting out of bed and to the bathroom with Radia on my shoulder. As I brush my teeth and take a shower, Radia keeps singing her beautiful melody, which lightens my morning a lot. I offer Radia a bath for her but she refuses, she rubs her wings over her body like saying 'I can clean myself, thank you very much'. After the shower, the hell singer gets on my shoulder again as I return to my room. As I get in, I see Sona is sitting on the bed with a pouting face.
Sona: Where did you go, Arto? Why did you leave your future wife alone?
Arto: I just went to take a shower. Alright, let me make it up for leaving you, my dear.
I said as I got closer to her for a kiss, but when our faces got closer, Radia flew in between us, making our lips both touch her fluffy fur.
Sona: Radia, what was that for?
Arto: What is it, Radia?
She then uses one wing to point at Sona, and the other swings in front of her beak.
Arto: She said 'your mouth is stinky, and you should brush your teeth properly before kissing'.
Sona: How many of those words were Radia's and how many were yours, Arto? Are you using Radia to mock me?
Sona then takes a smell at her breath to see it's really bad. She blushed profusely while looking at me and Radia. Without a word, Sona barged out of the bedroom, leaving me and Radia behind. I happily pat the bird's head
Arto: Good one, Radia.
Radia: *Chirp* *Chirp*.
After a few minutes, Sona returned to our bedroom and she breathed in my face and Radia, I could smell a fragrant smell of mint from Sona.
Sona: Is it good enough to receive your kiss, Darling?
Arto: Yes, it is. *Radia nods* Come here, Sona
She complied and we got into a deep kiss as Radia sing us a song with love's vibe. I love Radia, she knows exactly what to sing and when to sing. As the kiss was going on, from outside, a voice of a maid came in.
Maid: Master Arto, mistress Sona, breakfast is ready.
Radia then flew out of the room and did something, I don't know, but the next moment, she came inside and signaled us to keep kissing, which we agreed to and kept the smooching going. After 5 minutes, we are finally done and head to the dining room with our hands laced together and Radia on my shoulder. As we come in, everyone is there and they are looking at us: Sona's peerage is looking at me with blushing faces, Lord Sora has a content face while Lady Sena is kind of angry at us.
Arto: Good morning everyone, why are you looking at us like that?
Tomoe: Oh, it's nothing, nothing,.......nothing.......
Tsubaki: Did you use it, Arto, Sona?
Sona: Use what?
Tsubaki: The condoms I put inside the nightstand's drawer.
Arto: What? Why would we use that?
Everyone then looked at me in astonishment.
Reya: So you didn't use it?
Sona: We have no reason to use it anyway.
Momo: So it's true.
Sora: I am looking forward to a beautiful baby, looking at Millicas makes me want to have a cute grandkid too, but I'd love to have a cute little girl more.
Sena: Sona, Arto, what did I tell you two? I know you two love each other and will get married in the future, but you two are still students, it's too soon for both of you. I think I trusted you 2 too much, I shouldn't have let you two sleep together, even if nothing happened this time, you two being close would trigger your inner desire again.
Sona: What's going on? What are you talking about?
Arto: What is it about babies, condoms and inner desire?
Tsukasa: We have all heard the news, Arto, Sona, we know you two spent the whole night having sex, didn't stop until this morning, when a maid told you about breakfast.
Sena: Tell me Arto, Sona, is it because of that succubus you bought yesterday? Is she the one who led you 2 down this depriving path? Talking about that succubus, where is she? I need a word with her about tempting students to have sex before graduating from highschool. Or did she join you in that intercourse? Did she instruct you how to have sex, Sona, Arto?
Sona's is now as red as a tomato, she gripped my hand harder, unable to say anything so I must take the matter into my own hand.
Arto: Alright, alright, one problem at a time. Firstly, Sona and I didn't have sex, we just slept together last night, nothing more, nothing less. Secondly, who told you about us doing that?
Sora: Radia, the little hell singer on your shoulder. She flew into the room and made many gestures, signaling that you two are having sex and we shouldn't disturb you 2.
Sona and I look at Radia as she avert our gazes and chirping apologies.
Arto: So that's how it is. Alright, Radia flew out of the room this morning to signal everyone not to disturb us while we were kissing, just that, no intercoursing or anything.
Sona's peerage: Phew.
Sena: Radia, why did you give false news to us? *sigh* Alright, you two can keep on sleeping with each other, I misjudged you back there, I am sorry, you two
Sora: You made me overhyped, Radia, I thought I'm going to have a grankid, considering they did that all night. Now that everything is resolved, let's have breakfast everyone.
As the meal was going on, Lord Sora asked me
Sora: Hey, Arto, where is the succubus? I didn't see her anywhere.
Arto: Oh, right, Albedo, I released her last night.
Sora: What!? You let her go?
Sona: Yes, he let her go after removing the slave seal away from her.
Sora: I am a little concerned about your mindset, Arto, might gotta test you again before agreeing with your marriage with Sona
Sona: There is no need to worry, father, Albedo will come back to Arto's side sooner or later. The way she looks at my Arto, I know she has fallen in love with him, so she will be his eventually. Albedo just leaves us for some time to reunite with her sisters before coming home to become Arto's faithful wife.
Arto: She will?
Sona: Of course, why do you think I ask you if you would give her a chance to be by your side? She will come back to be one of your lovers like me, she can't live without you now, you know~?
Arto: I see, I'll inform Rias, Akeno and Robin about this later, I need their permission to start a relationship with Albedo.
Sona: What about me? Are you leaving me out of the council of your lovers?
Arto: Of course not, I have had your permission to be with Albedo, there're 3 ladies left I need permission from.
Sora: So the harem of yours form a council to decide the fate of the woman who fell in love with you, very interesting. Tell me, Arto, who is the leader of the council?
Arto: As for now, Robin is the closest to a leader of my harem, she is like a mother and a friend to Akeno and Rias while still being a wonderful lover to me, she has more experience and intelligence so her opinion plays a crucial role in the final decision. But don't get me wrong, I love them all the same and their votes have equal values and I still need all the agreement of the ladies in my harem to add another woman in.
Sena: I see, your harem working system is pretty clear I see, did my Sona get the permission to join?
Arto: I had permission from Rias and Akeno already, Robin will not be that hard considering it's Sona we're talking about.
Sona: Why don't you ask them directly?
Arto: You know what? Yeah, let me call them.
I summon a magic circle and call my lovers back home. The screen appeared, revealing Rias, Akeno and Robin sitting together as Robin is teaching them both.
Rias: Good morning, love. Have you realized that you can't live without us and decided to come home to our embrace?
Akeno: Arto, I miss you, please come home or I'll teleport there with you, with or without Sona's permission.
Robin: Why didn't you answer my call last night? Were you having too much fun with Sona and decided to not come home anymore?
Arto: Sorry, Robin, my love, there were some matters last night that took my attention away, so please forgive me, will you?
Robin: Since you say 'please', but what is the matter?
Arto: Well, since I told you no woman will receive my love without your permission so......
Robin: You want a woman to join, yes? Who is it?
Arto: Sona.
Robin: What? I thought she has always been a part of this harem from the day she lost to you in chess.
Sona: What? I have always been a part of the harem council?
Arto: Ohhhh, okay, such a worrywart I am.
Sona: Okay, thank you, Robin.
Arto: Another matter, when I was arriving at Sitri's domain, I saw a beautiful lake with crystal clear water, incredible scenery. I was asking if you girls wanted to go there for a picnic with me?
Rias: You gotta ask? Of course we are going, and you know what? Let's not make this a date but a family outing, us 2 families will spend our day at that lake.
Sora: Indeed, today is luckily one of the few annual days off of Serafall and Sirzechs, so this will be fun, it's rare to have everyone in the 2 families gather.
Rias: Thanks a lot, I'll let my parents know about this outing, see you later. *Clicks*
Sena: Splendid, I'll prepare a lot of food for us all. This will be a wonderful day. Barbeque,.......
Tsubaki: ......swimming,......
Momo: ....Chilling,.....
Tsubasa:.......fishing,.......
Sona:......Kissing~,.......Huh!? *blushes*
Sora: Sona, no need to be that thirsty, the boy will be yours sooner or later.
Sena: You kind of remind me of myself back then with Sora, good memories.
Serafall: .......Sparkling.......Everyone~ *yawns*
Arto: Uhh....Sparkling......Serafall, you look sparkling today.
Serafall: Arto? When did you come? Why didn't I see you? *Said as she goes to sit besides me and hug my arm*
Sora: Good morning Serafall, bed at home is always better right?
Serafall: Indeed father, I had one hell of a sleep and it was wonderful, if only my little Sona was there with me, it'd have been better. *Looks at me* Arto, you stole my beloved sister away from me, how could you be so mean? You know how much I love her. I have no way but to sleep with you two tonight. *rubs her face against my arm*
Sona: I will not allow that, he's my fiancé. Arto? Say something.
Arto: What can I say? It's not like I could stop her, she's one of the Satans, she could kill me with a slap. Besides, she is holding me hostage here, I can feel my arm freezing by the second. So if you don't want to have a one-arm husband, you should agree with this.*Sona sighs*.....
Serafall: Yayyy, thank you Arto, Sona *smooch* I know you'd understand.
Arto: *smooch*No problem, Serafall, come sleep with me and Sona anytime you want. You have been working so hard and you deserve a high-quality sleep.
Serafall: Thank you Arto, you are so kind. Say, when will the time dilating thingy be done? I want to spend more time with my Sona and you. We can do a whole lot of stuff, shopping, cooking, eating, bathing, sleeping together.
Sena: Another one, Arto, stop taking my daughters away, I know you are a good man but can you love them all?
Sora: Looks like Arto just gained another girl without noticing, she'll be happy with him.
Sona: A council meeting is needed after this.
Arto: It might take one or 2 weeks, I'll start that project after I return from the summer vacation. I'll do my best to help you be with your family more. I'll take good care of Sona in the meantime, so don't worry. *Pat her head*
Serafall: Thank you, Arto, I'll owe you a lot if this project is a success. I love you so much.
Arto: You deserve them, Serafall. Nothing should interrupt family happiness, even duties.
Serafall: So, what's your plan today?
Sona: We are planning for a family outing with Rias's family, since this is your day off, will you join us?
Serafall: Of course I will, where are we heading?
Arto: Crystal lake.
Serafall: My favorite. And I get to see my precious Sona in her swimsuit, she will look so beautiful in that bikini I bought for her, then we'll get to take pictures together, swim together, hehehehe, I can only imagine.
Sena: I am glad we can have an outing with all members of our family. It'll be a day to remember.
Everyone: Yes.
Sirzechs POV
I slowly stirred awake in my bed, in my wife's embrace because of the alarm clock. It's time to go to work again, another 12+ hours shift of paperworks. Sometimes I wonder why I took the responsibility as one of the Satans upon myself? I couldn't do anything for my family, when Rias was forced into a marriage with Riser Phenex, I couldn't do anything. When Grayfia was forced into a marriage with Razer Phenex, I couldn't do anything. Then all of the hardships fell on the shoulder of Arto, a human, who has absolutely nothing to do with our affairs, yet he helped. He saved Grayfia out of the hands of Razer Phenex, something I should have done as her brother in law, trained Rias to be stronger and smarter to fight against Riser, something that I should have done as her big brother. The more I think about it, the more useless I feel about myself. Why have power when you can't even protect your family from harm?
I turn around and look at the cloak hanging on the wall that I wear on duty as Lucifer. I once thought that thing could help me keep my family safe, but it only isolated me from them, took away my time for them, and turned them into a target in political games. Sometimes, I just want to go back to the old days, when I was Sirzechs Gremory, no worries, no pressures, no duties, the time where I spent going on dates with Yelena, playing chess with father, cooking with mother,.....I want them back. As I was sinking into good memories, the sense of responsibility slaps at my face and takes me back when my alarm clock rings again. I turned it off as I tried to refuse reality and buried my face into Yelena's chest, to go back to slumber, but it rang again, my damn alarm clock. I sigh to myself then get out of my beloved wife's embrace and slowly approach my cloak. But something, someone held me back, I turned around to see my beautiful Yelena looking at me sleepily while holding my wrist.
Yelena: Where are you going, my husband?
Sirzechs: Sorry, my Darling, I must depart to work again, sorry for waking you up with my alarm clock, you can go back to sleep, Yelena.
She slowly sits up, still holding my wrist. The blanket slowly runs down, revealing the beautiful naked body of my wife, something I can never get tired of seeing. She then pulled me back to bed as we shared a deep French kiss that lasted for about 5 minutes before letting go.
Yelena: Firstly, your wife needs her morning kiss, you really should learn that from Arto......
Sirzechs: Sorry, my dear, I totally forgot....
Yelena: Secondly, today is your day off, why are you heading to work?
Sirzechs: Wait.......
Yelena: Yes, we had lots of sex last night to celebrate your day off, remember? It's been so long since the last time we did that and I must say, I am very pleased, you really did satisfy your wife's desires, something she's been craving for so long.
Sirzechs: Thank you, my wife, for always being there for me. Now, if you excuse me.
I said as I buried my face in between her soft breasts again, she smells beautifully, I can sleep like this everyday.
Sirzechs: I love you so much, Yelena.
Yelena: I love you too, Sirzechs.
She said as she wrapped her arms around my head and leaned back to the bed, pulling me with her. The next minutes were spent in comfy, where I got to feel my wife's fragrance and softness without a care in the world. I can stay like this all day, forget about my duties, responsibility and come back to become the old Sirzechs Gremory and enjoy my day off. Until......
Millicas: *Kicks the door open* RISE AND SHINE, MOMMY, DADDY!
He yells as he jumps on my back. His voice contains excitement and joy.
Yelena: Good morning, Millicas. *smooch*
Millicas: Good morning, Mommy *smooch* What are you and Daddy playing? Can I play with you two?
Sirzechs: We are just doing some morning wrestling, and your Mommy is winning.
Millicas: I know Mommy is stronger than you, Daddy.
Yelena: So why did you wake up so early today, Millicas?
Millicas: Aunty Rias just told me we are going to Crystal lake in Sitri's domain for a family outing today, I am so excited I can't sleep back after hearing this. Aunty said that Aunty Sona's family will also join us on this trip too. So I get to meet Aunty Serafall as well.
Yelena: I see, so everyone is planning for a grand picnic today, aren't you excited, Sirzechs?
Sirzechs: Of course I am. It's been so long since the last time we went to Crystal lake, that place was utterly beautiful.
Yelena: Indeed, that's where we had our first date and also the place we shared our first kiss. I would love to go there again, but without you, it's not the same.
Millicas: So romantic, Mommy, Daddy, tell me more, tell me more!
Yelena: When you're old enough, we'll tell you about what happened, I've just given you some sneak peek.
Millicas: I want to hear more, if you don't tell me, I'll ask Gran gran.
Rias: Now, now Millicas, peeking other's secrets without their permission is bad, you know. Besides, even gran gran wouldn't know those romantic stories of your Mommy and Daddy.
Millicas: Aunty Rias.
He said as he jump down from my back and into Rias's embrace
Millicas: Can you tell me a romantic moment of yours and Uncle Arto?
Rias: *Flicks his forehead* Another time, Millicas.
Millicas: Aww.
Rias: This is a good chance for you two to heat up those burning feelings you have for each other, we'll take good care of Millicas while you two go back to your first date together.
Sirzechs: Thanks Rias, so whose idea is this?
Rias: Arto's, he came across Crystal lake when heading to Sitri's domain. At first, he suggested a date for his lovers, but I recommended a family outing, cause I know how much that lake means to you two.
Sirzechs: Thank you Rias, so will Mom and Dad come too?
Rias: Of course, everyone is coming today, and unlike that simulation room's official run, this time is for fun, no business allowed.
Yelena: I'm glad, finally, I'll get to spend a day with Sirzechs Gremory, not Lucifer. I'll call Grayfia to invite her as well.
Rias: Please do and remember to wear some swimsuits, cause this outing will be very wet.
Sirzechs: Now, can we have some space to change, everyone?
Rias: Okay, I'll take Millicas with me, so you two can be as lovey-dovey as much as you want. But make sure to keep it down, you two were so loud last night. I have never heard Yelena scream so loud, even the bed had a tough time handling you two, it must have been very pleasurable~ When will it be my turn with Arto, I wonder? I hope he can make me scream like that.
Sirzech/Yelena: *Blushes* You heard!? Yelena/Sirzechs, I thought you.....*sighs*
Rias: You two are so born for the other, but be quick. Everyone is waiting, no breakfast today, we'll eat more at lunch and dinner. Come on, Millicas, let's go.
Millicas: Okay, Aunty. See you later, Mommy, Daddy. *Waves his hands*
Sirzechs: Let us change our outfit, Yelena, we have a wonderful day ahead of us.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Sirzechs and chibi Yelena changing their clothes)
3rd POV
Sirzechs and Yelena are now in their beach clothes as they get into the dining room, where everyone is waiting. Zeoticus and Kiba are having their fishing rod ready and they are talking about what are they going to catch, Nami is helping Venelana with sunscreen, Robin is doing the same with Rias and Akeno while petting Koneko's head using the arms she summoned.
Zeoticus: Finally, you two arrived, you sure had a fun night together, I assumed?
Venelana: Your love for each other never fades, I am so glad.
Yelena: Indeed, father, it's a pleasurable night indeed. *blushes*
Sirzechs: Sorry we forgot to set up a sound barrier. *blushes*
Rias: Oh, c'mon, it's not that bad, the only person we need to block the sound from is Millicas, who could still sleep soundly even after a magical bomb detonated near our mansion.
Robin: Your voice when you moaned last night.......fufufufu~.
Akeno: It gave me some anticipation for my night with Arto in the future.
As the conversation was going on, Millicas barged into the room in his beach clothes and a backpack
Millicas: I am so ready for the beach day, I've brought all sources of games we could play together, Uncle Arto made this backpack for me, it can contain a large amount of stuff I wanna bring like: toys, comics, games,....... and the weight remains the same. Uncle Arto is the best.
Akeno: He is, isn't he? He has done so much for us.
Robin: Thanks fate for bringing him to us.
Zeoticus: Now that's everyone is here, let us depart to the Crystal lake
Everyone: Yes.
They then teleport to the entrance of Sitri mansion, where Arto, Sona, her peerage, Lord and Lady Sitri are waiting for them in their beachwear.
Arto: Hello, everyone.......
Before he could say anything, he's immediately hugged by his girls: Rias, Akeno and Robin.
Rias: We miss you so much, Arto.
Akeno: The bed is not the same without you.
Robin: We want more kisses and cuddles to make up for all the time you spent without us.
Rias/Akeno/Robin: *Sniff* *sniff* hmm? Whose smell is it?
Robin: Arto, can you tell us the source of the smell I am sensing now?
Rias: This smell is not Sona's, not Tsubaki's either.
Akeno: This alluring smell, a woman.
Rias/Akeno/Robin: Who is she, Arto?
Arto: Her smell really lingers for a long time........Well, this smell belongs to a succubus virgin I bought at the auction house yesterday.
Akeno: Arto, why did you buy a succubus? Virgin? Are we not good enough to satisfy your need in bed? You could've done it to us if you want, I wouldn't refuse.
Rias: Is that why you never get hard, no even once when sleeping with us naked?
Robin: Now I know the reason why you made no move on us, we are not beautiful enough for you.
Arto: The reason I bought her was because.......
Flashback
Sona: Arto, when Rias asks you about Albedo, will you tell her about Riser that day?
Arto: I won't. Because it would make her hate him more than she already does now. I want her power to grow properly, I don't want her to grow in hatred, she might lose herself in the power. I want her goal to be a better person more than to hurt someone else.
Sona: I see, I agree with you, Riser is a filthy cunt and I don't want Rias to be tainted because of him.
End of flashback.
Arto: .......Because I saw Riser Phenex wanted her, I want to provoke him a little. So I bought her. But I released her right after I took her home with me, so nothing happened between us. You can ask Sona for more information, she is the witness.
Rias: Riser!? You met him there?
Arto: I did, and I gotta say, he is indeed very ugly and a parasite jerk.
The girls then look to Sona who is still composed, she said
Sona: I can approve what Arto said was true, he released the succubus after buying her with 120 million. I saw him lifting the slave seal on her body and let her go.
Rias: 120 million!? And you released her that easily? I am both glad and concerned at the same time. How could you spend money that way?
Arto: C'mon Rias, it's my money, let me spend it the way I want, will you?
Rias: No, I can't allow that. Your spending is concerning, I need to teach you how to use your money sometimes. I know you're rich, but......
Sona: That money didn't go to waste.
Rias: Huh?
Sona: That succubus will come back to Arto one day, not tomorrow, but soon.
Robin: Why? A succubus wouldn't give up her freedom that easily. I doubt she will come back. I know Arto is a kind-hearted man but thinking she would come back to him is kind of.........
Sona: That succubus has fallen in love with Arto.
Akeno: As expected from my man.
Robin: Then it's another matter, you'll have to accept her nonetheless, we'll have another sister in the future.
Arto: Wait, which means........
Akeno: Yes, the council has come to a conclusion: we will approve your relationship with her when she comes back to you.
Arto: Thank you girls, everything will be the same even if she's here or not, I won't love you girls any less.
Rias: I know you won't, we know our importance in your eyes, we care about her. Succubus requires lots of love, so you gotta try harder.
Arto: That's what I'm gonna do.
Sora: I see we share the same idea?
Zeoticus: Indeed, fishing is indeed the best. I have found another passionate guy here, Kiba.
Kiba: I'll be glad to join you, my Lords.
Sora: Our fishing session will be more interesting. I know something we can catch today. It's a giant monster that resides under that lake, we call it Gyarados, a dragon-like underwater creature, they are said to be very big, strong and very hard-headed.
Zeoticus: And there we have it, Kiba, our target today.
Kiba: What will you do when you catch it?
Zeoticus: Take a few pictures with it I guess, and take a few samples for research.
Sora: We don't want to disturb the biodiversity of the lake, this catching is just for fun. We'll release it when we are done.
Kiba: I see, please take care of me, I wish to learn from you, my lords.
They said as they laughed with each other.
Sena: How is your preparation, Venelana?
Venelana: I have prepared lots of food for today's outing. We all know how much they can eat on a picnic day, how is the equipment, Sena?
Sena: Every cooking equipment is all prepared, we just need to go there and fire things up.
Serafall: You came, Grayfia.
Grayfia: Yes, I can't miss a day of going out with my sister.
Serafall: We share the same idea, Grayfia. Good camera you have there.
Grayfia: This is a special day, so I need to capture every moment.
Grayfia/Serafall: All the film in this camera, for my precious Arto/Sona, fufufufu~
Sirzechs: Looks like everyone is ready, let us depart to our destination Crystal lake.
He said as he teleported everyone to the place. The moment they set their foot on the ground, what appeared before them stunned them in amazement.
Yelena: Nothing changes over time, it's still the same as I remember it.
Sirzechs: I know, right? This place does bring back lots of memories.
Arto: So, why don't you start your romantic date right away?
Nami: Yes, we'll take care of Millicas here, go on and recreate your first date.
Venelana: This is not an everyday event so enjoy every moment of it, alright?
Sirzechs: Yelena, shall we? *reaches his hand to her*
Yelena: *happily take his hand* Yes, let us go.
Millicas: Mommy pretty.
Yelena/Sirzechs: Mommy is always pretty. *Look at the other blushing* Let us go, my love.
They said as they went on their private date hand in hand.
Arto: That's so romantic.
Venelana: They are so born for each other, a perfect couple.
Zeoticus: We are heading out too, Honey~. I am taking Kiba with me for a fishing trip. Will you come with us, Venelana?
Sora: Indeed, we have a fish to catch today, my Darling. I'll prove to you that I am better than this tomato here. You'll come with us right, Sena dear?
Zeoticus: So you want this to be a competition, huh, Sora?
Sora: It's always been, Zeo. Whoever catches the Gyarados wins, what do you say?
Zeoticus: It's on, I am not holding back, my wife is watching me after all.
Sora: You're talking like my wife isn't, I'll bring this victory back to you, Honey~
They said as the 2 Lords flare up their aura while staring menacingly at one another. This makes Kiba, who is standing in the middle, look so small.
Nami: Good luck working with both of them, Kiba.
KIba: I'll try my best.
Venelana: They never stop, don't they?
Sena: Yeah, but they are cute that way, always strive to be better.
Sena/Venelana: That's why I love him. We are going with you, can't let you drown the ship with innocence Kiba.
The fishing group is now on a boat, heading to the middle of the lake with a competitive atmosphere over the boat. The ladies of the houses are also with them to suppress the hotheads and keep Kiba safe
Arto: Looks like everyone is enjoying themselves, we need to go as well, what do you girls say, care for a dip in the lake?
Rias: You read my mind, let's go everyone.
Then everyone started to change into their swimsuits and get ready for the swimming.
Rias: What do you think, Arto?
Arto: Extremely beautiful, I love it.
Rias: I am glad, so what color is my swimsuit, Arto?
Arto: Red of course.
Rias: Oh Arto.....I wear this for you, so look down here a little will you?
Hearing this, Arto sighs and look down to his lover before hugging her, lifting her up and shoves his face in between her breasts
Arto: As I said, you're utterly beautiful, but it's your fault if I can't take my eyes off your body, alright?
Akeno: Ara ara~ You've finally noticed our intention, haven't you? The only women you could ogle at are your lovers, so don't ever look at other women this way okay, love? You have all the best women here for yourself after all.
Arto lifts his head from Rias's chest and looks behind him. to see
Arto: Akeno, why do girls have to be so beautiful?
Akeno: Because we love you, dear, that's why we try to be beautiful, for you to look at, for you to admire, for you to love. We don't care what other men think, all we care about is your thoughts about our beauty. And I see you love our swimsuits very much.
As she said, she pulls Arto back, makes him fall to the back, into her embrace, Rias and Akeno is now sandwiching Arto's face in between their breasts, the man in the middle is unable to do anything but wrap his arms around Rias's waist.
Grayfia: I think that's enough, Rias, Akeno. Let him go, let us head to the lake for a swim, will you?
Akeno: Damn, Mommy pretty. *Grayfia blushes*
Rias: You do look stunning, Grayfia. Well, one less reason to let him go now. You might snatch him away from us.
Arto: *Muttering* Giod mornig, Grayfia.
Grayfia: Good morning, Arto. Now girls, will you let Arto see my swimsuit?
Rias: Fine.
She said as she let go of Arto so that he could stand up, trying to get as much air as possible before standing in front of Grayfia who was now blushing. He cupped her face in his hand and looked her in the eyes.
Arto: You look very beautiful with your swimsuit there, Grayfia.
Grayfia: Thank you, Arto, I am glad you like it.
Robin: Of course he'd like it. I know exactly what kind of swimsuit he loves.
Nami: We chose this for you, Grayfia.
Hearing the voices, Arto looks up to see Robin and Nami, Koneko and Millicas are walking together in there swimsuit
Robin: You look at this style of swimsuit longer than all others styles, so we all chose this style for you to look at all you want.
Koneko: So Arto is a pervert as well? President and everyone is tainting your mind with breasts and butts.
Arto: Still not a pervert, I only look at their bodies when they tell me to.
Koneko: Which is every night, when they sleep with you, naked. They are making you into a pervert.
Arto: No they're not, they just love me, that's all.
Nami: What do you think, Arto? Beautiful, yes? This must be better than those you saw in the megazine.
Arto: You gotta ask? All of you look stunningly beautiful. Well. Let's head to the lake for a swim before my nose starts to bleed.
Sona: Hey, wait up.
Serafall: Don't you dare forget about us.
Arto: There's more?........
Arto turns to see Serafall, Sona and her peerage in their swimsuits as well. Blood started to flow from Arto's nose seeing this scene before him.
Akeno: You know, I am starting to see it.
Rias: See what?
Akeno: Arto's fetish.
Grayfia: Really? What is it?
Akeno: Look at the girls here and Arto's reaction, I can see that Arto has a strong affection for women with black hair.
Sona/Tsubaki:*blush* Really?
Robin: You know? I am starting to see it now. Let me ask you Sona, what color is the hair of the succubus he bought the other day?
Sona: Albedo has black hair.
Robin: As I thought, so our Arto didn't just buy her to mess with Riser Phenex, he also has a strong liking for women with black hair and voluptuous bodies, like me for example.
She flexes her body before Arto. Seeing this Serafall joins the fun and flexes her body as well.
Serafall: So you have a big admiration for black haired women, so what do you think of me, Arto?
Arto: You look very gorgeous, you are the perfect balance of cuteness and beauty. You're sparkling brightly there, Serafall.
Hearing this, stars appeared in Serafall's eyes as she hugged the Abyssgard. Seeing this, Robin decided not to stand out and hug Arto as well. As the hugging is going on, Sona and Tsubaki come in front of Arto, blushing.
Sona: So that's your woman type,Arto.
Tsubaki: Black haired with a beautiful body, do we meet your type of woman?
Arto: What can I say? Yes, you do. Your black hair really takes my attention a lot.
Rias: Arto, even though you have a strong fetish for black haired women, you still like my red hair, right?
Nami: My orange hair too, right?
Grayfia: Or my silver hair?
Arto: I love you girls all, no matter what color you have for your hair. So you don't need to dye your hair to suit my liking, I love your personality more. So instead of trying to make your look similar to my liking, I would love you more if you become a better person intelligence-wise and personal-wise, that's why I teach you girls, except you Serafall, Robin, and Grayfia, you're great*Robin and Serafall give Arto a thumb-up while Grayfia is blushing*. So please, don't focus too much on the outside because you girls are already very beautiful. Focus on the inside and improve yourself, I want my lovers to be smart, confident and independent, not some walking flower pots.
Rias: We get it, Arto. Thank you for your words.
Akeno: So Arto also has a fetish for smart women as well, no wonder he likes Robin so much. Well, more reason to try harder.
Robin: But I am still curious, what is the source of this fetish of yours, Arto? You never mention them in your notebooks.
Akeno: Well, I can answer that.
Sona: Then tell us.
Akeno: Arto has a high liking for black haired women because they remind him of the girl he loved in his past life, his first love.
Serafall: So that's how it is. Tell me, what is she like?
Arto: I don't remember, all I can remember about her is that she is a singer with an angelic voice at a tavern, her first song took my heart away. But her face, her voice, her personality, I don't remember. But I doubt she could remember me, my feelings for her were one-sided.
Robin: Why didn't you confess to her?
Arto: Some sensitive matters, confessing to her might put my legion in danger so I decided not to.
Akeno: That's sad.
Serafall: I am so sorry for your loss. But not to worry, we can make up for it, we can help you move on from those bad memories.
Arto: It's alright, what matters is that I am here now with you girls now, I'm having a happy life that I never imagined that I could have. Enough talking, let's go.
Arto said as he ran ahead and jumped down the lake.
Rias: Hey, wait up, Arto!
Everyone follows him to the lake and the fun begins..........
As the students, a teacher, a maid and a Satan were having fun at the lake, the love birds are having a walk on a hill near the lake.
Yelena: This is where we spent our first date, this hill, a light snack, a melody of the hell singers,....
Sirzechs: A guitar, a light wind breeze, this tree we cuddled,.....
Yelena/Sirzechs: .......our first kiss.
They said as they shared a loving kiss under the tree they are so familiar with in a light wind breeze and beautiful song from the birds.
Sirzechs: I love you Yelena
Yelena: I love you more, Sirzechs.
Sirzechs: I love you first.
They share their sweet time being alone with each other until they are drawn by the commotion down at the lake where Arto and Sona are performing a dance using water magic with Millicas at the center of the performance.
Sirzechs: Our son sure is having fun, look at him go, riding confidently on the water slide.
Yelena: He's really happy with his Uncle Arto and Aunty Sona, he doesn't seem to be looking for us.
Sirzechs: Wait, is he freezing the water?
Yelena: Indeed he is, he's performing the simplest ice spell without noticing.
Sirzechs: And he has gained control over it after a few attempts with instructions from Grayfia and Serafall, two of the strongest ice users.
Yelena: He might be a prodiger, like you, Sirzechs.
Sirzechs: Maybe, but I don't want him to follow my path to pursue power, or to be a Lucifer. I want him to have more time with his friends, family, and himself, something I wish I had.
Yelena: It's a dire situation back then, if you didn't step up, hell might have collapsed, so don't beat yourself because of it, we still have lots of time ahead of us.
Sirzechs: Yeah, thank you for your encouragement, love. I don't know what I'd become without you by my side.
Yelena: Anytime, honey~
As the couple cuddle deeper into each other, the scene moves to the center of the lake, where Zeoticus and Sora are tying a big chunk of meat onto their gigantic hook with a smirk on each of their faces at 2 opposite sides of the boat.
Zeoticus/Sora: You're going down, Sora/Zeo. I'll give this Gyarados to my wife as a gift of victory for defeating that stoneface/tomato.
Venelana/Sena: They are at it again. *giggle*
Kiba: How could you be so calm seeing this, Ladies? They are about to fight.
Venelana: Because that's the nature of their friendship.....
Sena: .....constant competition, but deep down......
Venelana: ......They care about each other a lot,......
Sena: ......never stop trying to make the other better.....
Venelana: ......That's the reason why they could survive the war.
Kiba: I see, that's one epic friendship they have there.
Sena: Indeed, those 2 are like fire and water, but they cannot live without the other, it'll be boring for them.
Kiba: Thank you for your story, ladies, now I must head out.
Venelana: Be careful, Kiba, if it's too much for you, just let go and ask for help, don't try to hold on to it too much, it might pull you down with it.
Kiba: I'll keep that in mind, Lady Venelana.
He said as he finished hooking his bait as he moved to the front of the ship to start his hunt.......
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a chibi boat with 3 fishing rods sticking out)
Rias: That's one hell of a performance, Arto, Sona. Your water bending skills are exceptional.
Arto: Thank you, Rias. I've been practicing a lot to impress you girls.
Sona: Arto taught me a lot about bending elements.
Millicas: You are so cool, Uncle Arto, can you teach me how to do that? I want to do it at school.
Grayfia: You can do that with us, Millicas.
Serafall: Yes, we'll teach you ice shaping to make people's jaws drop.
Millicas: Can I really do that?
Robin: You can my boy, you have strong affinity to ice magic from your mother so this will be a piece of cake.
Millicas: Teach me teach me, Aunties.
Grayfia: Gladly.
They said as Serafall, Robin, and Grayfia started to teach Millicas how to handle his ice magic.
Arto: While Millicas is studying, why don't we go deeper into the lake?
Akeno: Interesting, I'm in.
Rias: I'll go too.
Nami: Count me in as well.
Tsubaki: This is your chance, Sona.
Sona: Yes, this is my chance to test out a new spell: it can help you breathe underwater.
Arto: Damn, that's what we need, cast it on us, Sona.
Sona: Got it. *Summon a magic circle*
Rias: We are all set, let's go. Koneko, will you come with us?
Koneko: Nah, I am having fun playing volleyball here. Serve that ball, Tsubasa.
Tsubasa: You got it. *Smack the ball*
Arto: Well, let's go.
Then they dive deep down the lake.
Everyone: Woahhhhh......
Nami: This is so beautiful, I'll take a few pictures.
She said as he swam closer to the coral rift with everyone following close behind her.
Arto: These fishes.....
Rias: All shapes and sizes......
Akeno: So beautiful......
Sona: Hey, take me and Tsubaki some pictures too.
As the diver group is having fun with fish and coral. Sirzechs and Yelena are still watching their son from a far in excitement
Sirzechs: He's learning very fast, isn't he?
Yelena: Indeed, his control over his magic is very good.
Sirzechs: Guess we don't have to worry too much about him, how about we go for a swim, Honey~?
Yelena: I was waiting for you to say that. *Snaps her fingers*
Yelena: Like what you see, dear~?
Sirzechs: *Drooling* Yes.
Yelena: Then change, we are going for a swim.
Sirzechs: Right.
He said as he changed into his swimsuit then hugged his wife around her waist and jumped from the top of the hill straight down the lake.
Millicas: What's that sound?
Grayfia: Looks like your parents are swimming together.
Serafall: Focus, Millicas, we are getting to the hard part.
Millicas: Right, Miss Serafall. Aunty Robin, what's Uncle Arto like as a person?
Robin: Arto is a kind, calm and smart man, he is my teacher and lover. All in all, a wonderful person.
Millicas: So why did he have so many scars on his body like that? Those scars are awesome, I wanna hear stories about them.
Serafall: Ohhhh~ Interesting, I wanna hear too.
Robin: I know you're curious but I'll tell you when you are older, just know that your Uncle Arto had a horrible life that caused him so much pain and scars.
Millicas: But why don't you want to tell me?
Robin: Because we don't want your innocent mind being affected by adult's matters.
Grayfia: We want you to grow up happily in love and harmony with your family and friends.
Serafall: You don't need to force yourself to be grown-up, it's not worth it, enjoy your life as a kid, Millicas.
Robin/Grayfia/Serafall: Because that's what all adults want, to be a little kid again.
Millicas: I understand Aunties.
Serafall: Now then, let's get back to our sculpture......
Moving to the middle of the lake, Zeoticus, Sora and Kiba are waiting while Venelana and Sena are chatting while enjoying their tea.
Zeoticus: Where is it?
Sora: I don't know, it's supposed to be here. Anything there, Kiba?
Kiba: I got nothing, Lord Sora.
Venelana: Looks like we won't have any winner today.
Sena: Indeed, now, let us turn back, we have waited the whole morning for the fish.
Venelana: I bet everyone is hungry now, so let us head back for our lunch, you can try again in the afternoon.
The husbands sigh in defeat as they are about to turn the ship back.
Kiba: Lords, Ladies, I think I got something.
Zeoticus and Sora run to the front of the ship to see Kiba's fishing rope is being drawn at tremendous speed. The boy is struggling when something is pulling the rod left then right then left. When Kiba lost his balance and was about to be drawn down the lake, Zeoticus caught him.
Zeoticus: Got you.
Zeoticus stands firmly on the ship as he and Kiba retrieve the rope and pull at the same time, Sora joins forces with the former 2. After a combined pull, the shape of the monster is revealed as it jump on the water surface
Sora: Gyarados.
Zeoticus: A big Gyarados.
After going down the water again, it uses its magic to create a tidal wave to sink the ship. Venelana immediately goes to his husband's side and replaces Sora as he lets go and creates a magic circle, Sena did the same with her husband. Sora created a tidal wave as big as the one of Gyarados while Sena cast a protection spell on the ship. The tsunami collided and created rain.
Zeoticus: Thank you, Sora.
Sora: Hold on tight, Zeo, Venelana, Kiba, there's more coming. Darling, support me.
Sena: Yes.
Kiba: That's a Gyarados?
Zeoticus: More than that, a Mega Gyarados. A stronger mutation of a normal Gyarados.
The fight went on as the dragon-like creature fired high pressure water out of its mouth to the ship to sink it. But its effort was proved to be futile since Sena and Sora are using their magic to block its attacks. It couldn't escape either when Venelana, Zeoticus, and Kiba are standing firmly as they keep pulling it in. The longer the fight the weaker Gyarados got, so it decided to barge at the ship, to sink it with the people on it.
Zeoticus: It's coming.
Venelana: I got this
She said as she let go of her husband created a destruction barrier around the ship. Her barrier combined with Sena's creates a tough and destructive protection for the ship. Gyarados try to penetrate the barrier but to no avail, not only that, it also gets burned by the protection field. It growls in pain as the fight goes on. Zeoticus and Kiba are constantly pulling the rope back along with the lake monster. Combined with Sora's water magic, it makes it harder for the Gyarados to fight back. So Gyarados went for a final move. It barges at the ship but this time, it goes under the barrier and pulls the ship with it in order to cut the rope, it moves chaotically, trying to take the rod away from the fisherman. Seeing its intention, Zeoticus enhances the fishing rope with magic, makes it tougher and takes it from Kiba's hand. Venelana immediately disables the destruction barrier and goes to her husband's size to help him.
Zeoticus: Kiba, go to the ship wheel, I need you to help me stabilize the ship as the fish pull it, this is an endurance game.
Kiba: Yes, Lord Zeoticus.
He said as he quickly gets to the wheel, and uses his high reaction time as a Knight to turn the wheel as the Gyarados pull it around the lake.
Sora: Let me help you, Zeo.
He said as he creates an opposite flow under the water, it makes it harder for the fish to swim. After half an hour, the fish was totally exhausted but the rope hadn't been broken and the rod still remained intact, so it decided to surrender.
Zeoticus: We did it.
Sora: Indeed, this one is tough, I must say.
Kiba: I've never seen an underwater creature so strong before.
Sena: It can even use magic to fight us.
Venelana: All if the effort paid off beautifully, who's hungry?
Everyone: Me.
They said as they returned to the shore with a Mega Gyarados hanging on the side of the ship.
When they return to the shore, Sirzechs and Yelena are walking together in their swimsuits, hand in hand.
Sirzechs: You have returned, father, mother, Kiba, Lord and Lady Sitri. Did you catch it?
Zeoticus: You bet we did. That was one hell of a fight between us.
Sirzechs: Where is it now?
Sora: On the side of the ship, we'll show you after lunch.
Yelena: Mother and Lady Sitri, how was your trip?
Venelana: It was really fun, the Gyarados are indeed one of a kind, they can even use water magic.
Sena: We had a fun time catching it, and we don't mind going again.
Sirzechs: What about you, Kiba? Did my father and Lord Sitri scare you?
Kiba: Of course not, it was a great experience working with 2 clan's head here, if it was not for Lord Zeoticus, I might have been dragged down the lake with the Gyarados. I can't stop being amazed by how skillful Lord Sora is with his water magic.
As the conversation was going on, a certain kid ran to his family with excitement.
Millicas: You have returned, Mommy, Daddy. How was your date?
Sirzechs: It was fun, Millicas.
Yelena: So much fun. We did all sorts of things together.
Zeoticus: Here's my favorite nephew, come here with Grandpa.
Millicas: Grandpa! *Jump into his arms* What did you catch today?
Zeoticus: Today, we caught a Gyarados, a big dragon-like fish, I'll show you later.
Millicas: So cool, I made something cool too when you were gone. Let me show you.
Venelana: Interesting, what did you make, my boy?
They then follow Millicas to see
Everyone is amazed by the sculpture the little Gremory made using his ice magic. Zeoticus is putting on a victory smile against his rival.
Sora: You made this? This is amazing. Now I really want a grandkid.
Sena: I didn't know you could do this, Millicas.
Millicas: I just learned how to do it today with help from my aunties.
Robin: Indeed, the boy was really talented.
Grayfia: After a few instructions, he made the ice dragon here.
Serafall: His talent is worth-noticing, I think you should teach him more, Yelena.
Yelena: I'll keep that in mind, now......
She said as she pick her son up and hug her in her arms
Yelena: I'm so proud my boy, you made a wonderful ice statue, your skill is developing very quickly. I guess I'll have to teach you ice magic from now on.
Sirzechs: Indeed, you are very talented, Millicas, but remember, don't sleep on your talent, you gotta work hard too if you want to become a better person.
Millicas: I know, Daddy, but will you teach me?
Sirzechs: Of course I will, when the time expanding function for the simulation room is completed, I'll have plenty of time to train you inside that room with your mother. We'll have plenty of sweet times together.
Millicas: YESS! And Uncle Arto?
Sirzechs: And Uncle Arto, sweetie.
Millicas: Talking about Uncle Arto, where is he? I don't see him anywhere.
As the boy was wondering, 6 figures appeared from under the water of the lake: it's the diving group of Arto, Rias, Akeno, Sona, Tsubaki and Nami. Arto is carrying Nami on his back, Tsubaki and Rias are doing the same with Sona and Akeno. They are panting heavily after a long dive.
Rias: I told you it's dangerous, but you said 'in and out, 20 minutes adventure'. Now it took us the whole morning.
Akeno: If it's not for Nami's navigating skill, we would have been stuck in that maze the whole day.
Nami: You're welcome, now to pay back for my effort, I need a hearty meal.
Sona: All those traps and guards were still functional, I thought they were going to be broken considering the condition of the ruin.
Tsubaki: And all those treasures we found were destroyed because we gotta leave them behind when the ruin pressed the self-destruct button. All in all, we gained nothing and almost died.
Arto: I am so sorry girls, this is all my fault for encouraging you to get in there, I'll take any punishment.
Sena: What happened to you? Whatever it is, take a seat, I need to check on your wounds.....
Arto: We're fin...
Sena: NOW!
Diving group: Yes, ma'am!
They all take a seat as Lady Sena checks on each of the group's health. After satisfying with their condition
Sena: Looks like you are all good with minor wounds, you are free to go.
Diving group: Thank you Lady Sena.
Millicas: Uncle Arto, you're back *Jump into Arto's embrace*
Arto: Yes, I'm back Millicas *Rubs his nephew's head*
Millicas: Look what I did, Uncle. *Points at the statue*
Arto: You made THAT!? Damn my nephew is talented. But remember.......
Millicas: 'Do not sleep on your talent', you are so like my Daddy sometimes, Uncle. I'll train hard under your instructions.
Arto: That's my boy, so Grayfia and Serafall taught you this?
Millicas: And Aunty Robin too, they are great teachers, I learned super fast.
Arto: I see, you can learn a lot from them, Grayfia and Serafall are 2 of the strongest ice magic users in hell, while Robin is my most prestigious student.
Venelana: Enough chatting, it's time for lunch.
Nami: I am so ready, I am coming, Mommy. *Runs to the table*
Rias: Look how hungry she is, better go now, or else there will be no more food left *Runs to the table*
Akeno: Hey, wait up, Rias! *Runs after Rias*
Sona: Rias's right we'd better go, we all know how delicious Lady Venelana's dishes are.
Tsubaki: Yes, we'd better go.
Arto: It's time to go, hop on Millicas.
Millicas: Yeah!
The boy said as he jumped on his uncle's back and went to the table for lunch. As everyone are enjoying the delicious lunch Lady Venelana prepared, Zeoticus was the first to ask
Zeoticus: So Arto, what did you find in the lake's deep water?
Arto: We found a ruin of an ancient kingdom under the lake, so we decided to take a closer look at it.
Rias: And we were stuck inside the deeper construct of the ruin.
Akeno: It's like a maze to trap whoever wants to get to the treasure vault.
Tsubaki: And thanks to Nami's navigating skill, we were able to get to the treasure vault
Sona: Not to mention the guards made of stones that were fully functionable, we had a tough time dealing with them.
Arto: After all of our effort, all the treasure was buried under the ruins after the stone guards destroyed themselves to prevent us from getting our hands on the treasure so we left them behind and returned home.
Venelana: What an interesting story you have there kids, too bad you couldn't bring any treasure home.
Sena: Luckily they returned home intact, or else their wounds would be the last thing they should worry about. *flares up her aura*
Arto: What about you, Lords and Ladies? Did you catch the Gyarados?
Sora: We did, and it was an epic fight. We'll show you after lunch.
Rias: Last but not least, the love birds........
Sirzechs: We had a great time together, it's just like our first date.
Venelana: Should I expect another kid? Make sure it's a girl, got it?
Yelena: We'll try our best, right, dear?~
Sirzechs: Ye....Yes, we'll try our best.
Sora: Arto, Sona, I am expecting good news from you two, alright? I want a cute niece.
Zeoticus: Hey, who said you'll get the first kid? Rias and Arto will have a cute, pretty grandkid for us, right, you two?
Sona/Rias: *blushing* FATHER!!
The meal went on in laughter and harmony as the fishing team talked about their journey to catch Gyarados. After the hearty lunch, everybody was full and satisfied.
Nami: Mommy Venelana's food is the best, I can eat like this everyday.
Venelana: I am glad you like it, my girl.
Rias: Now, time to witness the Gyarados.
Millicas: Yes, yes, show me show me.
Then everyone proceeds to walk to the ship to take a look at the Gyarados. When arriving at the ship, Sora, performed a spell that lift the monster from under the water to the surface inside a water prison, everyone is in awe seeing the monster before their eyes
Arto: That's one majestic beast, it's really beautiful and dangerous.
Rias: It's like a dragon, I can't believe creatures like it exist, how beautiful.
Robin: We'll have many things to talk about this fish, I love it.
Sona: It's indeed very beautiful, it can even use water magic, if it's not trapped in this lake, it might be a top-tier predator.
Nami: This thing has tremendous speed and can change their moving direction like immediately, so the fact that you didn't get dragged down the lake is a great feat.
Zeoticus: It took a lot of effort from Kiba and Sena to stabilize the ship for me and Venelana to maintain our balance when this Gyarados was soaring through the water.
Millicas: Can we take a picture with it? Can we? Can we?
Venelana: Of course we can, dear, now everyone, get in position, we are taking a picture with Gyarados here.
Everyone: Yess.
Everybody forms a line and Sora lifts the Gyarados up, Grayfia and Sona are setting up the camera for the picture.
Grayfia: Done.
Serafall: Everyone gets in your position.
They then get into the line and the camera snaps.
Sirzechs: What a day to remember.
After that, some of its scales were taken for research purposes and Gyarados was released to the lake again. The afternoon went by pretty normally when everyone was chilling on the beach after an eventful morning with all sorts of things happening. Until.......
Rias: Arto, put sun lotion on me please.
Arto: What!?
Akeno: That's your punishment for getting us endangered this morning.
Nami: Indeed, this is quite a light punishment, you know? Our life was in danger and we only asked you to put sun lotion on our body.
Sona: Besides, you said you would take any punishment from us, so now show us your repent, Arto.
Arto: Yes....Yes, I said that but....Tsubaki, you gotta be opposing this, right? Tsubaki?
He said as he turned to Sona's queen, seeing her is now on her belly and is taking off her bra, showing her bare back to Arto, blushing.
Arto: Lord Zeoticus, Lord Sora, Sirzechs, Kiba, we're all men here, you gotta help........
He turns to the men, seeing Zeoticus and Sora giving him a thumb-up.
Sirzechs: You got this on yourself, Arto.
Kiba: You're on your own now, brother. We couldn't do anything to help.
Arto: *sigh* Fine, you win.
Rias: Of course we win, now.......
Akeno: Put the lotion on our bodies with those strong hands of yours~
And the lotioning session began....... Arto gets some lotion on his hand and puts it on Rias's body first, the coldness of the lotion gets some light moan from the red haired princess. His hands run slowly all over her back, making sure to cover every inch of his lover's beautiful back and arms. When he goes through shoulder, Arto realizes her shoulder is really stiff, so he uses some massage techniques he learned from a course on the internet to relax her shoulder, this makes Rias moan in pleasure.
Rias: Ah~ahh~ This is so good, he knows what he's doing, my shoulder is screaming in joy..... Keep going, Darling~ Ahh~ You are doing so well~ I love you, Arto, ahhhhh~ My lower body as well, my love.
Arto: Huh!?
Rias: Your punishment is our body, not just our back. C'mon, your girlfriend is waiting~
Arto sighs in defeat as he continues down her body. He put the lotion all over her legs with ease. The last part, her butts.
Rias: Arto, what are you waiting for?
Arto: Yes, Honey.
He said as he reached inside her panties and rubbed her butts with sun lotion, the softness of Rias's cake attacked his composure, never in his life he's ever touched a girl's butts with his hand, the lowest he has ever reached is her lower back. Arto's composure then received another assault from Rias's moan
Rias: Yes~ my love~ahhh~You're doing great, you strong hands is making me feel so hot~Ahhhhhh~
Arto: I'm glad you like it my love.
He said as he placed a kiss on her blushing cheek, making Rias blush even more, so she is unable to ask for more, like a rub on her breasts for example.
Arto: I'm glad it's over, but.....
After finishing with Rias, Arto's finger is twitching profusely after all the sensation he gets from touching his lover's butts. But then he realized that his calmness test is not over when the next person in the line is.....Akeno.
Akeno: Arto, it's my turn now. I see you have done a good job with Rias, so I expect a lot of pleasure from you, my love.
Arto nervously swallowed some saliva down his throat looking at his Akeno with no bra on her body and was waiting for some lotion applying from him. After a few moments of preparation, Arto took a deep breath as he started to rub sun lotion on her smooth and soft skin. Unlike Rias, Akeno moans louder because of his touches.
Akeno: Ahh~Your hand is so strong. ahhh~ I love it, gimme more AHH~Don't forget about my shoulder dear~she's really stiff and is waiting for you to rescue her.
Arto: Yes, Darling~ This will not just end with these 5 ladies, there will be more: Robin, Grayfia, Serafall. I can feel my hand shaking. My composure is being put on the line here, I gotta be strong, can't let them take advantages of me
Seems like the girls love his shoulder massage session, he then took her order and helped his girl relax her shoulder.
Akeno: You are taking lots of weight off my shoulder, Darling~ Keep this up and I'll ask you to do this every week. Ahhh~
Arto: I'll be of service whenever you need, my love.
After a few minutes of shoulder massaging, he was about to let go but........
Akeno: Arto, what about my butts, don't you like to touch it? Or is it you like Rias's more?
Arto: At your service, my Akeno.
Arto said as he placed a kiss on one of Akeno's butt cheeks before applying lotion on her cakes. Knowing Akeno's masochist personality, Arto squeezes her butts harder than Rias, which makes Akeno almost screams in pleasure.
Akeno: Ahhh~ You know exactly how to pleasure your woman. Ahhh~ Keep going Ahhhhh! I love it. Ahhhh~
After he's done with Akeno, Arto immediately receives a signal from Nami in the form of a kick on his leg.
Nami: Time to show some gratitude for your favorite navigator. Arto, I'm waiting~
The lotioning session goes on with Nami, she is showing her back to him. After taking a deep breath, He apply lotion on her back. Doing this to Nami is a relief to Arto since she doesn't moan while he's doing it.
Nami: Hmm~Thank you Arto for treating my shoulder so well, I might gotta ask you for massaging once in a while.
Arto: Anytime, Nami.
Since she doesn't ask for some eroticrubbing, so Arto only did her back and her legs, treating Nami is like a calmer case than Rias and Akeno.
Arto: I wish Sona and Tsubaki were like this also.
Next destination: Sona, Arto's fiance.
Arto: I'm coming for you, my future wife. Prepare yourself.
Sona: Finally, my turn has come. Do me as you like, Arto.
Arto complies and starts applying sun lotion on her body. The special thing about Sona is that she blushes a lot when Arto is doing his job with her body.
Arto: How do you like my service, Lady Sona?
Sona: I love it, Arto, keep going.
Arto: As you said, my dear.
The comfort keeps on as Arto reaches down her leg and continues the comfort for his future wife. A kiss was placed on her cheek after the message session was done. The last one remaining is Tsubaki, who is blushing profusely like her King as Arto approaches her.
Arto: You don't need to do this, Tsubaki. We can stop if you are not comfortable about it
Tsubaki: No, I insist, please, put lotion on my body.
Arto: As you wish, my Lady.
He said as he place a kiss on her back before lotioning her skin, her skin was very smooth and soft like Sona.
Tsubaki: Ahh~ Arto~
Arto: Should I stop?
Tsubaki: No,no, keep going, it's kind of pleasurable, keep going.
Arto: Right.
After finishing her legs and back.
Arto: I guess..........
Tsubaki: Yes, those things were too much for me.
Arto: Thank you, Tsubaki. *smooch* Done and done, finally........
Robin: Who said it's done, Arto? Doesn't your favorite lover get some comfort from your touches, hmmm~?
Hearing this, Arto places a kiss on her lips, signaling her that she'll get what she was craving for. Arto then moves to where Robin is, he also sees Serafall and Grayfia there as well with their bras are nowhere to be found. Robin then gracefully lies down on her belly and takes off her bra, and talks to him in a seductive voice.
Robin: C'mon, your Robin is craving for some touches from your manly hand, Honey~. Not just me, Grayfia and Serafall as well, they'll someday be yours, so you'd better treat them with care and love.
After placing a kiss on Robin's back, Arto started to rub lotion on her body. This earns some light moan from her
Robin: Ah~Your hand is indeed very comfortable, looking at the reaction of Rias and Akeno gave me Ahh~ some anticipations, now I get Ahh~ to experience it for myself Ah~ Harder, babe, harder~ Ahhhh~ Make your woman love you more~
Arto: You gotta teach me your magic soon, Robin, with so many women craving for my touches like this, I need more arms to complete the job, this is taking too much time.
Robin: I see, well, since you have taught me a lot, I teach you, here, use this
She said as she gave him a magic circle. Casting on both of his arms, He see 2 more pairs of arms appear above Grayfia and Serafall's body, exactly where Arto is touching on Robin's body. He tried to move his arms to see others are moving in sync as well.
Robin: Satisfied? Now, comfort your women, Darling~
Arto: You are the best Robin.
Robin: I know I am, now show your love some gratitude by massaging my shoulder.
Arto then starts to perform a shoulder message for the 3 ladies. As this is going on, Zeoticus, Sora, Sirzechs are sighing in relief.
Zeoticus: One more reason to not have a harem.
Sora: Indeed, he's having a tough time with his women, poor boy.
Sirzechs: I hope he's okay, taking care of a lot of women like that.....
They then receive signals from their wives, turning their attention to their wives to see they are all on their stomachs, with naked upper body
Venelana: Move your hands, gentlemen, your women are waiting~.
Sena: Can't let the young girls feel all the comfort.
Yelena: Arto is taking care of all his women and able to satisfy them all, what about you, Honey~?
Zeoticus/Sora/Sirzechs: Yes, Honey~
Grayfia: Looks like the men are all comforting their women Ahhh~ A little to the left Arto......that's better~ ahh~ Rub it harder, dear~ That's it.....now I know why your women love you so much, you know exactly how to make them feel loved and comfortable.
Serafall: Your hand is very strong for a human, I never thought ahh~ a human's hand could be this ahh~ strong, lower a bit, Arto.....your little Sera is very pleased, keep doing that~ I'll give you a good spot in my list for husband ahhh~ candidates.
Robin: You just earned yourself 2 more girls ahh~ but remember who is you favorite, Arto ahh~ You are taking ahh~ lots of weight off my shoulder with that technique of yours ahh~ My body is in love with your touch, my Darling~ I might ask for more in the future, so.....
Arto: I'll keep learning, but you gotta teach me more of your exclusive magic, so that no woman would be unloved in my harem.
Robin: I'll teach you sometimes, but I would require some intimate alone time with you in the future.
Arto: I'll gladly comply if it makes my women happy. And done, that's kind of tiring.
Robin: Thank you my dear, I have disturbed you enough, get back to chilling, love.
Grayfia: You are the best, Arto, my body feels so much lighter now.
Serafall: Can I ask you for more massages in the future?
Arto: Anytime, my little Sera.
He then returns to his long chair to see it's now positioned between Rias and Akeno's chairs.
Rias: Welcome home, Honey~
Akeno: I see you have completed your duty with your women, now it's time for your reward.
They both pat the seat in the middle, Arto puts on a smile and lies in the middle of his 2 lovers, they then position themselves close to him as they take a little nap. The moment he woke up, the sun had set and a delicious smell hit his nose, barbeque, Lady Venelana was cooking again. He looks around to see everyone is gone, the only people left are Arto, Rias, and Akeno.
Arto: Rias, Akeno, wake up, it's dinner time.
Rias: Huh!? What time is it?
Arto: The sun has set, and your mother is make barbeque for us
Akeno: Nice. Will you take us to the table for dinner?
Arto: At your service, my princesses.
He said as he wrapped each of arms around his girls' thighs and lifted them up.
Akeno: I didn't expect this.
Rias: Yes, our man is so strong, I like it.
Arto then carries his girls to the table where everyone is gathering in their comfy beach clothes. After settling the girls down their seats with a kiss, Arto goes to where Lady Venelana, Grayfia and Yelena are cooking.
Arto: What can I help, Ladies?
Venelana: You can go to the table and relax, we are almost done here.
Arto then comes back to the table to see Rias and Akeno have secured a place for him in between the ladies.
Arto: Thank you, girls.
After sitting down, Rias and Akeno immediately rest their head on his shoulder with a content smile on their face.
Arto: I love you so much, Rias, Akeno.
Rias/Akeno: We love you too, Arto.
Venelana: Everyone, it's time for dinner, it's been a wonderful day for us all, let us have a feast to forever remember this day.
Everyone: YEAHH!
And the feast begins, the men are jugging down their beer, Kiba is in that group too, songs were sang, pictures were taken, lots of pictures of all kinds of moments: Sirzechs happy time with Yelena, Gyarados catching, underwater ruin,.......A wonderful day indeed, for them all, before getting back to their normal activities of works and study.
Notes:
A/N: Finally done, longest chapter so far, I'll have to cut the night part short and leave it to some flashback in the future, or else this chapter would be way longer. Well, I hope you enjoy this chapter and let me know your opinion about it.
Chapter 17: The festival
Chapter Text
Arto POV
I stirred awake as Radia was singing her song, looking at my cute alarm clock singing with all her passion, I can feel my face put on a smile, just like seeing her back at that tavern, [UNKNOWN], you're so beautiful on the stage that day, your voice was gorgeous, unbelievable, it took my heart right then and there, my remedy. Sorry, my dear, I cannot remember you, [UNKNOWN], I hope you are doing okay back there, still singing, enjoying your life with your beautiful family, I know I can never regain those memories about you, but thank you, thank you for taking me through those nightmare I had every night, your songs were my savior. I know it's meaningless to say it now, but I love you, my [UNKNOWN]. Hearing my thoughts, Radia flies to my side and tries to sooth me with her fluffy body.
Arto: Thank you Radia, I need that, your fur is indeed very comfortable, I can't pat your head now that my arms are occupied by my ladies, so wait a little, alright?
Radia: *Chirp chirp*
As Radia is enjoying herself nudging my face, I look down to my girls Rias, Akeno and Robin sleeping soundly while using me as their hugging pillow. I have returned to Gremory domain after the wonderful day at Crystal lake, and my girls required extra cuddles to make up for the time I spent in Sitri's domain with Sona and her peerage, so now they are hugging me tighter than usual, not wanting to let me go. The position is still the same as usual: Rias on my left, Robin on my right and Akeno on top of me, this is a perfect number, 3, I don't know how we will sleep when Albedo or Sona comes, I don't want any of my girls to be left out. Bahh, I'll think about it later, now these girls here are my priority. Lucky for me, I can still move my neck, so I place a kiss on each of my girls and lay back down and enjoy my morning with my harem.
Arto: Radia, sing me a melody, light and comfy.
Radia: *Chirp chirp*
And the melody started to be sung by my hell singer, the girls snuggled deeper into me as they continued their sleep, their light breathes hit my body adding to the comfort of their hug. Another hour passes in the comfortable melody of Radia, yes, she can sing continuously for an hour without rest.
Arto: You did your job beautifully, Radia, you can have a rest now, come here, let me give you a kiss.
Radia chirps in happiness as she gets closer to my face. I then place a kiss on her head, this gets some embarrassing sound out of her, which is really cute. But her sound seems to be too loud and it wakes my girls up.
Rias: Can you keep it down, Radia? I haven't gotten enough warmth from my Arto.
Robin: Radia, tone it down a little, will you? I want to sleep more.
Akeno: Arto, your bird is disturbing your lovers' sleep, you should punish her.
Radia goes pale hearing 'punish' and looks at me with pleading eyes.
Arto: Akeno, don't scare her like that. Don't worry Radia, no one will punish you or anything.
Radia: *Phew*
Rias: *Points at her lips* Arto?
Morning kiss, yes. I then place a kiss on her lips. After a few minutes, we separated, Rias put on a content smile as she looked at me.
Rias: Thank you, Arto.
Arto: Anytime, my beloved.
Rias: Gotta take a shower now, feel free to join me anytime, I would love to have your hands on my body again~
After another light peck on the lips, she departed to the bathroom, didn't forget to sway her hips from side to side to get some reaction out of me, but it's futile since I am used to this since they do this trick too much. I then turned my attention to Akeno, who has anticipating eyes right now.
Arto: It's your turn now, Darling, come here.
Without a word, she smashes her lips into mine, as the kiss was going on, she thrusts her tongue into my mouth for a french kiss, I have no way but to comply and wrap my tongue around hers. After 5 minutes, I think it is time to stop because Robin is getting impatient. I lightly pinch Akeno's butts, causing her to moan as we separate.
Akeno: Arto, you cheated, I'm not done with that kiss.
Arto: I know, but your Mommy is getting impatient. Besides, I gotta treat you girls equally, Rias got a 5 minutes kiss, then you'll get a 5 minutes.
Robin: Yes, now Akeno, go take a shower with Rias, let Arto and his favorite lover spend their time together.
Akeno: You are no fun, Daddy, Mommy.
She said as she got in the bathroom, the moment she got in I realized that the door of the bathroom was not locked, worse, it's not even closed. After Akeno is gone, Robin, the representation of my fetish, gets on my lap as our faces get closer.
Robin: Why didn't you kiss me first? I thought I am your favorite~
In order for Rias and Akeno to not hear what I said, I get closer to her ear and whisper into it.
Arto: I save my favorite for last.
This caused Robin to blush as she look at me, before whisper to my ears as well
Robin: Then give your favorite what she wants, Darling~
She said as we shared a loving kiss, we hugged each other close, refused to let go, our tongues wrapped around each other, I could feel the softness and the delicious flavor of her tongue and saliva. Not just her tongue, I can never get tired of her smooth, soft, beautiful skin. My hands are kind of addicted to touching Robin's back after that lotioning session the other day. I don't want to say it out loud but.......I might have a bias for Robin over other girls in my harem. As my mind was wandering in the kiss with Robin, a voice interrupted my thoughts.
Rias: And TIME'S UP.
Akeno: That's the end of 5 minutes, Mommy, Daddy~
Robin and I then look at each other then reluctantly let go of each other. We turn to look at Rias and Akeno to see they are both wet and naked, looking like they are busy timing our kiss instead of taking a shower. After seeing us letting go of each other, they happily get back into the bathroom, still leaving the door open.
Arto: Sorry it gotta end too soon, dear.
Robin: I understand, you must treat your women equally.
Arto: I'm glad you understand, now go take a shower with the girls, *whisper* my favorite~
Hearing this, Robin puts on a beautiful smile of her gorgeous blushing face before getting inside the bathroom with Rias and Akeno. I lay myself back down on the bed, thinking about what happened with me and Robin. I need to balance things out with my lovers, I must treat them equally but Robin....Robin....Robin....... I can't stop thinking about her. Calm down, Arto, calm down....... Okay, I'm good now, I think.
Rias: Deep in thought I see, Darling?
Akeno: What makes my Arto think so hard, is it me you are thinking about?
Robin: Arto, go get yourself a shower, then we'll have breakfast.
My lovers are standing in front of me in their towels, while Rias and Akeno look at me with curiosity, Robin knows exactly what I am thinking about.
Arto: I was thinking about how lucky I am having you girls by my side, I have never thought fate would treat me this kindly.
Robin: But it did, and now you are here with us. We are also really lucky to have you as our man. Looks like fate treated us all kindly this time.
Arto: I guess, well, I am taking a shower now, see you girls in the dining room.
Akeno: No, we are waiting for you here.
Rias: We are heading to the dining room together.
I then get inside the bathroom, lock the door and turn on the water.
3rd POV
Rias: What happened to Arto? He looks kind of worried there.
Akeno: Is it because of his projects?
Robin just remains silent as the girls are making their guesses for Arto's worry.
Robin: Arto......... We want you to be happy, not worry like this......Girls, I want to ask you something.
Rias/Akeno: Yes?
Robin: What do you think about Arto having a bias?
Rias/Akeno: Huh!?
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a shower head running)
Arto POV
I chose a bathtub this morning instead of a shower. I need some space to think, to get everything organized about my relationship with the girls, especially Rias and Akeno. It was easy at first where I could love my women equally, but as time goes on, I started to like Robin more and more, I want to spend more time with her, I want to be by her side more, I can't take my eyes off of her when she was teaching in class, I usually stay up late when other girls are asleep to talk to Robin,......Robin, ....Robin, ...Robin,.....Rias......Akeno......I don't know if I can make you 2 happy, I can't love you as much as you love me. Rias, Akeno, please forgive me for being such a horrible man. How could you be in a relationship where your effort isn't worth the result, just like me back then, fought with all I had, only to be banished by the world I saved......Rias......Akeno......You can't be happy with a man like me...... Maybe......I should let them go......there should be a man out there......loves them more than me......Someone better than me......Rias......Akeno......I'm so sorry.
???: But do you truly want that?
Arto: What I want doesn't matter, I want Rias and Akeno to be happy, they won't be happy when being with me.
???: You know how much they love you.
Arto: But I can't love them as much in return, my emotions are shifting to Robin.
???: Are you going to just break up with them like that?
Arto: It's better for them, the sooner, the better, might be hurt at first, but they will soon get over it, they are my strong girls, I train them to be strong, I don't deserve their love anyway.
???: You are doing it again Arto, do you remember?
Arto: Do what? Remember what?
???: Neglecting those that love you like what happened to your 'Father'.
'Father': Arto......don't cry......you're my strong boy......it's not your fault......
I can feel tears running down my cheek remembering those last words.
Arto: 'Father'...... 'Father'......then what should I do?...I don't want them to suffer because of me...I love them too much to see them in pain, physically and mentally.
???: Your answer lies beyond that door.
Arto: Will I get my answer? Doesn't matter, will Rias and Akeno be happy? I don't care what the answer is, I just want my girls to be happy, to be with the man that loves them as much as they love them, someone that......isn't......me...... They deserve someone better than me.
Suddenly, the door of the bathroom flies open, revealing my lovers, naked. I quickly tried to wipe away my tears but I wasn't fast enough. Rias and Akeno jumped into the bathtub with me, used their bodies to pin my arms down, hold me in place, wrap their arms around my waist and get their faces closer to me. As my attention was focused on Rias and Akeno, I could feel a hand pulling me back into something soft and fragrant. I look up to see that I'm in between Robin's breasts and Robin is smiling at me. She gently strokes my hair as Rias starts with a question.
Rias: Arto, you want to leave us?
Akeno: Arto?
Arto: I......I......don't want to leave you, Rias, Akeno. It's just I'm......
Robin: ...afraid...
Rias: ...that we would be sad...
Akeno: ...when you show your bias toward Robin...
Arto: Girls...I am so sorry, I told you I would love you equally, but...but...
Rias: It's alright...
Akeno: We won't blame you because of it...
Arto: Huh!? How could you be okay with this? I can't make you happy if I just think about Robin all the time.
Rias: Because....
Akeno: ...there's nothing wrong with it.
Arto: What do you mean?
Rias: We knew you had some bias toward Robin a long time ago...
Akeno: ...we realize that from the way you look at her...
Akeno: ...the way you treat her,...
Rias: ...the moment we knew about your fetish, we know...
Akeno: ...that Robin is your type of woman, the ideal woman that you want...
Rias: A smart, strong, independent woman...
Akeno: ...with a beautiful body and gorgeous black hair...
Rias: ...you like a woman like that...
Akeno: ...there's nothing wrong with it.
Robin: Because we too have our preferences in our man: a kind, gentle man...
Rias: ...with high intelligence, and an unbreakable will,...
Akeno: ...a compassionate personality, and a warm heart...
Robin: All in all,....
Rias/Akeno/Robin: ...you, our Darling~
Arto: But will you be happy Rias, Akeno when I don't love you as much as Robin?
Akeno: Who said you don't love me much, Arto?
Rias: Besides my family, you are the person that loves me the most, you know?
Akeno: You are just underestimating your love for us, my Arto.
Rias: Here, let me give you an example: Why are you against my marriage with Riser? You could just let things happen, nothing would affect your gain, you would still be a valuable ally to my clan, and still gain lots of money from your projects.
Arto: Because.....I.......I.....don't want you to marry the man you don't want to, not to mention a horrible man, only view women as toys.......
Rias: All in all, because you care about me, my joy, my happiness, yes?
Arto: Yes, I do care about you, a lot.
Robin: Lies, Arto.
Arto: What? No, there's no lie in my words, I truly care for Rias....
Akeno: Lies, Arto.
Rias: You're lying, Arto, to me and to yourself. You are more selfish than that, you don't just care....
Robin: ....you want Rias for yourself, because you LOVE her.....
Akeno: ....to the point you don't want other men to take her away from you....
Arto: ......
Akeno: Me next, you said you don't love us much, but the moment you think about breaking up with me and Rias, it's painful, isn't it?
Hearing it, my tears started to flow out of my eyes. Seeing it, Rias and Akeno use their hands to wipe my tears away.
Rias: The moment that thought came, it came like a cannonball, shot right through your heart, I could hear something shattered within you.
Robin: The pain you felt means your mind was fighting that thought, the thought of leaving your beloved Rias and Akeno. Deep down, you want them by your side, you want us by your side,....
Rias: Your hope....
Akeno: Your dream....
Robin/Akeno/Rias: Your love....
Rias/Akeno: And you said you don't love us much~
Arto: But is that enough for you? I don't want you to feel unloved.
Rias: You man just don't know how much you love your woman.
Arto: And you know?
Akeno: Of course we do, we are more sensitive than you, we know exactly how much our man loves us.
Robin: And believe me, your love for me is only a little higher than Rias and Akeno.
Rias: If your love for Robin is equal to 100, your love for me and Akeno is 97. Sona 93, Tsubaki and Nami 90.
Akeno: Before you ask us how, we measure through the way you look at us, your gestures toward us, the way you talk to us, touch us, treat us.
Arto: Just how?
Robin: Cause we are women, we are special that way. Now can you stop worrying and love your women to the fullest of your ability?
Hearing this, I don't know what to say, the only thing I can do now is give them a hug, I will never have that thought again, never, these girls are too precious to me, I love them, so, so much, my women, lovers.
Arto: I am so sorry, girls, for making you worry, I will never have such thoughts again, I promise.
Then I received 3 kisses from my lovers, one on each cheek from Rias and Akeno, one on my head from Robin.
Robin: I'm glad you get those thoughts of tearing this family apart out of your head, I love you and these girls a lot, and I really don't want us to be apart.
Rias: Yes, Now you can stop worrying about loving Robin more, I can freely do so, but....
Arto: I know, I love you girls.
Akeno: Our man is back, I'm glad we got our problem resolved before it became bad.
Arto: One more thing, how did you know I was thinking about this?
Rias: Well....
Flashback
Robin: What do you think about Arto having a bias?
Rias/Akeno: Huh!?
Robin: Yes, Arto loves one of us more than the others.
Rias: So this is why he looks so worried.
Akeno: It's bugging my man.
Rias: But we all know who the lucky woman is....
Akeno: Mommy Robin~ We know Arto has a special liking for you.
Rias: And the revelation of Arto's fetish the other day is just a confirmation....
Akeno: ....that Arto loves you more than us.
Robin: I see, and you are okay with it?
Rias: Arto has his own preferences, we must respect that.
Akeno: The important thing is that he still loves me and Rias deeply, not as much as you, but much. He's a man who wasn't loved much in his past life, so his love runs deep, especially for those that treat him well.
Radia: *Chirps loudly*
Robin: What is it, Radia?
Radia: *Opens her beak* '....Maybe......I should let them go......there should be a man out there......loves them more than me......Someone better than me......Rias......Akeno......I'm so sorry.'
Rias: Arto....Oh no, he's having such thoughts.
Akeno: This will not do, we must save him, Arto.
Robin: Let us head in there, our man needs us.
End of flashback
I look at Radia who is flying near our bathtub
Arto: I see, Radia, our savior, you save our relationship there, you are one hell of a bird, you know?
Radia: *Chirps happily*
Robin: She's so cute, isn't she?
Rias: Get in here with us Radia.
Radia: *Shakes her head*
Akeno: Suit yourself, now, love your women, Arto.
Hearing that, I wrap my arms tighter around Rias and Akeno, pull them closer to me, Robin stops stroking my hair and wraps her arms around my neck, push me deeper into her comfortable chest, after we had our desired position, I feel like everything is back to normal, my girls once again saved my ass, now how can I reward them?
Arto: Do you girls have any plans for today?
Rias: Nope, I just want to chill like this the whole day, hugging and sleeping with you is a good way to spend my vacation.
Arto: I'd love that too, but I need to do something for you since you saved me today from my thoughts.
Akeno: You can just be here, be our hugging pillow and the best lover in the world.
Robin: Activities, what is the date today?
Rias: August 6th.
Robin: Got it, you know Akita, the city I used to live in before moving here, yes?
Arto: Yeah, what's about it?
Robin: There'll be a big festival called 'Kanto Matsuri', a big lantern festival, you can take us there to attend it.
Arto: Great, there we have our destination, Akita city festival. Now if you excuse me, I need more warmth.
I said as I hug my girls closer to my body to feel their warmth, the girls happily comply as they hug me as well, the comfort slowly drives us to slumber until....
Yelena: BREAKFAST!
Yelena's voice roars like thunder, snaps us out of the slumber, we look at the door to see Yelena is standing there in her maid outfit with a serious face.
Arto: Good morning Yelena.
Rias: We'll be right there, sorry for making you wait.
Yelena: *sigh* Be quick, everyone is waiting.
She said as she left the room.
Robin: Well, it's time for us to go.
Akeno: Yeah, people are waiting for us, and I'm hungry.
We then get out of the bathtub and put on some light clothes before heading to the dining room, where everyone is waiting.
Zeoticus: Took you 4 long enough.
Venelana: You sure had a wonderful night together, I assumed? Fufufu~
Rias: Sorry father, we had some problems we must solve among ourselves, that's why we took so long.
Venelana: What happened? I thought you loved each other so much?
Robin: I'll tell you about it later, but now everything is resolved, let us enjoy our breakfast.
As the meal was going on, Nami ask Arto
Nami: What is your plan today, Arto?
Arto: We are about to head to Akita for a lantern festival, do you want to come with us?
Nami: Of course, I wanna try on the Kimono, Rias?
Rias: I'll help you pick one beautiful Kimono for tonight.
Arto: Koneko?
Koneko: Of course I'll go, or else all those sweets will go to waste.
Arto: Kiba?
Kiba: How could I not go? It's a festival.
Rias: Father? Mother?
Zeoticus: You go enjoy yourself, we cannot accompany you this time, I have a date with my beloved wife tonight
Arto: So romantic.
Akeno: Millicas? Yelena? Do you want to go to the festival with Aunty Akeno~?
Millicas: Mommy, can I? Can I?
Yelena: Only if you train properly with me today, but I'll have to decline your offer. I have a plan with Sirzechs tonight, sorry.
Arto: Another date I see.
Millicas: Okay Mommy, I'll get to wear a Kimono, right?
Rias: Yes, Millicas, I'll choose a good one for you.
Arto: Then it's settled, we are heading out tonight, so enjoy your day, alright?
Everyone: Right.
Then the day went on normally, Rias and her peerage had a training session in the simulation room, I am doing the supervision job before heading in with Robin and Nami for our training session as well, Millicas is training his ice magic under his mother's instruction. The morning event ended when everyone gathered in the dining room for lunch.
Rias: Ahhh, today's training sure is refreshing, new monsters and stuff.
Akeno: It's pretty unexpected I must say.
Kiba: They are more like an organized army than a horde of monsters.
Koneko: Penetrating those defensive formations was quite a problem at first.
Arto: That's because they are adapting to you guys, at times like that, the role of the leader is more crucial, you gotta come up with a strategy suitable for the situation, instead of relying on brute force like before.
Robin: I'll have some private class with you all in the simulation room for that matter. Not just Rias, everyone need to know how to process information in dire situation
Arto: I'll give you a certain situation in a battle and you gotta come up with a solution for the best result, Rias, Akeno...
Rias/Akeno: Yes?
Robin: Your roles will be very important so take this matter seriously. We'll give you a simulated army to practice solving strategic problems, not just battle-wise but also logistic-wise to maintain your army and claim victory.
Rias/Akeno: Right! *Point behind me while giggling*
Arto: Kiba? Koneko?
Kiba/Koneko: Yes?
Robin: Your mission will be different from Rias and Akeno, while they process the information and give strategic solutions, you will be the one to bring information to them, information that they can't see, I teach you how to gather information on the battlefield, you got that?
Kiba/Koneko: Got it. *Point behind me*
Arto: Alright, now enjoy your lunch, we'll prepare for the festival this afternoon.
After saying that, I summoned my knife and blocked an attack from a certain someone.
Arto: Not this time, Millicas.
Millicas goes to face me with a little ice rod in his arm
Millicas: Awwww~ I tried to be as sneaky as possible. How could you still notice, Uncle?
Arto: You did really well back there with a concealment spell from Robin, but not good enough, keep trying and one day you could catch me off guard. *Rub his head*
Millicas: Hehehe~ Thank you Uncle.
Arto: Now, how did your training with Mommy Yelena go?
Millicas: It's wonderful, Mommy is so strong, but she's scary when she is serious, but she taught me well. After the training, my gentle Mommy Yelena came back and hugged me tightly. She even apologized to me for being too harsh when we trained. Best Mommy ever!
Arto: I see, now, looks like you're hungry now, go enjoy your lunch and we'll prepare for the festival tonight.
Millicas: Yes, Uncle. *Gets in his seat*
Robin: He's really cute, isn't he?
Rias: And talented as well, he learned that presence concealing spell from Robin in no time.
Akeno: His trace was faint, if we weren't trained, we might not have noticed him.
Koneko: He's growing with tremendous speed. Not only is he talented, he has wonderful teachers around him.
Kiba: He'll be a strong devil in the future if he keeps on training hard like this.
Arto: Yeah, beating a genius is hard, beating a hard-working genius is impossible, we gotta build that hard-working spirit for Millicas so that he can develop to the fullest of his potential.
Robin: Gotta mind his personality as well, can't let him be too arrogant about himself, confident, okay but we can't let that go too far.
Yelena: I see, I'll keep that in mind, I don't want my son to be like Riser Phenex.
Rias: Yelena, how was Millicas's training?
Yelena: He did really well, I must say. I'll have to teach him more.
The lunch goes on as Millicas performs some ice magic for his family to see, everyone is amazed by the growth of the boy, his mother is holding a camera to record her son's performance in joy. After finishing his performance, he bows to his audiences like a true performer, this earns applause from everyone.
Zeoticus: My nephew did so well with his ice magic there, and this is only his early stage of developing. In your face, Sora.
Venelana: He has the confidence like his father, but gentle nature like his mother, a perfect combination indeed.
Arto: Sirzechs would love to see that video of yours.
Yelena: Of course he will, his son is doing so well after all.
Then Millicas runs to me and jumps into my embrace.
Millicas: How did I do, Uncle?
Arto: You indeed caught me off-guards back there Millicas, I didn't expect as much, but....
Millicas: I know, 'Do not sleep on your talent', I'll train harder.
I flick his forehead with my fingers
Arto: Getting ahead of me again, I know you are a hard working boy but what I was trying to say is 'Don't try too hard, you are still a kid, you have plenty of time ahead of you, so enjoy your childhood', alright?
Millicas: Thank you, Uncle, you are the best.
Yelena: Immediately ran to your beloved Uncle, what about your Mommy, Millicas?
Millicas: MOMMY!! *jumps in her arms* How did I do?
Yelena: You did really well, I have recorded your performance, your Daddy would love to see it when he returns. But Millicas....
Millicas: 'Be humble', I've learned as much from training with you, I will keep that in mind.
Yelena: *hugs Millicas* That's my son. Now, for your good training today, you'll be free to enjoy the lantern festival with Uncle Arto and Aunty Rias.
Millicas: YAYY, I get to spend time with Uncle Arto and Aunty Rias in the human world.
Nami: Yes, Millicas, I'll choose a good Kimono for you to wear.
Millicas: Really, Aunty Nami?
Nami: Yes, you are really handsome to begin with, so this will be easy.
Yelena: Please take care of him, he can be distracted by fun activities.
Nami: Don't worry, little Millicas knows how to take care of himself, right? *he nods*
3rd POV
The afternoon comes as everyone is preparing for the festival, Rias and Nami are choosing Kimonos for everyone.
Rias: Let me see, Millicas, you first.
Millicas: Alright, Aunty.
Nami/Robin/Akeno/Koneko: So cute.
Kiba: Damn, that's one handsome boy right there.
Arto: Who is that cute boy over there?
Millicas: Uncle! You look so cool in that Kimono.
Millicas said as he jumped into his Uncle's arms.
Rias: Arto is like a second father to Millicas, he always goes for Arto first.
Akeno: I want to him to wear this everyday
Nami: Wow, Arto is indeed one of a kind, a gentle yet strong handsomeness, I am falling for him
Robin: My darling is so handsome in that Kimono. Looking good there, handsome~.
Arto: Damn she's beautiful, just the way I like it. You look gorgeous as well, Robin~
He said as he approached Robin with Millicas in his arms.
Arto: It's better viewing up close. What do you think, Millicas?
Millicas: Aunty Robin is really pretty.
Robin: How much pretty? As much as Mommy Yelena~?
Millicas: Nope, I bet my Mommy would look more beautiful in Kimono.
Robin: This boy really loves his mother. Too bad she couldn't come with us. I want to witness her beauty in a Kimono.
Akeno: Arto dear, what do you think?
Arto turn back to see Akeno in her black Kimono
Arto: You look utterly beautiful there, my love.
Millicas: Yes, Aunty Akeno very beautiful
Akeno: Fufufu~ Thank you, young man, you look really handsome as well, this look of yours might draw a lot of attention so be careful alright, some girls might want to kidnap you, you know?
Millicas: Really? Then I'll stick to my Uncle Arto all the time.
Nami: And done, what do you think, Arto, Millicas?
Arto: Simple yet beautiful, I love it, your choice of color really compliments your hair and body, one of a kind.
Millicas: I agree with Uncle Arto.
Nami: Thank you Millicas, what do you think of the Kimono I chose for you?
Millicas: It is very comfortable and easy to move in, thank you so much Aunty Nami.
Arto: Next up, my little kitten Koneko.
Koneko: Here I am.
Arto: I'm suffering from cuteness overload, Millicas, spray some ice on my forehead please.
Millicas: Right away.
Koneko: Do I really look that cute?
Nami: You are, you and 'cuteness' are like a pair, always going with each other. *Arto gives a thumb-up*
Koneko: *blushes* Thank you for your compliment.
Kiba: Looks like everyone is ready.
Arto: Looking good there, prince.
Millicas: Uncle Kiba is a prince?
Arto: Yes, he's the prince in our school, girls surround him all the time.
Millicas: Isn't that annoying?
Kiba: It is at first, but I got used to it now.
Arto: And if the prince is here, where is the princess?
Rias: Are you looking for me, Arto?
Arto's eyes widened seeing his beautiful princess in front of him.
Rias: Like what you see, dear~?
Arto then holds Millicas out to Rias as he speaks
Millicas: Uncle Arto said you look very beautiful and he loves you very much, Aunty Rias.
Rias: *takes Millicas from Arto's arms and hugs him* That's so sweet of him...
Nami: Arto, Rias, Millicas, look here. *Snap*
Robin: They indeed look like a family, with Arto as the father, Rias as the mother and Millicas as their son.
Akeno: That's what will happen in the future, when he marries his harem and has kids with his women, that will be a sight to see.
Millicas: Can I see? Can I see?
Nami: Here you go.
Millicas: So beautiful, I want Mommy and Daddy to take a picture like this with me.
Robin: You'll have your chance when your father has more free time with you.
Rias: Well, without further ado let's head to the Akita city's lantern festival.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Kanto Matsuri lanterns marching forth)
The group is now standing in amazement looking down at the festival from a high building
Rias: This is incredible, so beautiful.
Robin: Indeed, this happens every year and it attracts tourists from everywhere.
Millicas: Whoaaa~ This is the first time I'm attending a festival in the human world. I can't believe how wonderful it is.
Arto: It indeed looks very joyful, but very crowded, it's really to get lost, so you should stick with us while enjoying the festival, alright?
Millicas: Yes, Uncle, I'll go with you and Aunty Rias.
Arto: Well, Rias, guess our mission today is to take care of the boy here.
Rias: We have no choice but to stick to each other.
Robin: You know when to take your chance, huh? Using little Millicas to have a private date with Arto.
Nami: But he has chosen his companion for the night, who are we to interrupt?
Akeno: Alright, you won this time Rias, guess I'll go on a date with my Mommy Robin.
Robin: Yes, I have a date with my little daughter tonight, so enjoy your night, Rias.
Nami: Kiba and Koneko will go with me, I have a lot to buy and I need someone to carry my stuff. *looks at Kiba and Koneko*
Kiba: I'll happily help you, my lady.
Koneko: As long as I get to eat, all is fine.
Arto: That's right, Koneko, here *hand her a little envelope*
Koneko: *checks the envelope* 500,000 yen.
Arto: Spend as much as you like, eat as much as you like, there is no need to refrain anymore today, if you want more, I'll give you more.
Koneko: Thank you, Arto *blushes*
Arto: So cute....
Rias: Looks like we'll enjoy this festival in groups, I'll put a sigil here so that we can teleport back.
Arto: Now, let's go!
Everyone: Yeah.
And the festivities begin....
Rias and Arto are now walking with Millicas through the festival in the sound of traditional music, as they were walking they saw an event is being held for children to try balancing the little bamboo pole adorned with small paper lanterns, or kanto poles. Millicas looks at his Uncle and Aunty with stars in his eyes.
Millicas: Uncle, Aunty, can I try that, pleeeaaase~?
Arto: Of course you can, go ahead my boy.
Rias: Listen to the instructions, okay?
Millicas: Yes, Aunty.
Millicas answered as he joined the event with other kids who are trying to balance the kanto poles. He approaches a middle-age man who is supervising and instructing the kids how to do the trick.
Millicas: Mister, can I join in balancing the poles?
Instructor: Of course, you can join, but I might need permission from your parents over there.
He said as he pointed at Arto and Rias.
Millicas: That's my Uncle and Aunty, but I got permission from them so....
Arto then smiles and nods at the man to tell him the boy can join, the instructor smiles happily at Millicas before handing him the little poles for him to balance.
Instructor: What is your name, little boy? You look really excited, is this your first time here?
Millicas: My name is Millicas, Mister. And this is indeed my first time attending this festival.
Instructor: I see, I hope you'll enjoy this festival, now let us learn how to balance the kanto pole, you can call me Yoshida.
Millicas: I am ready, Mister Yoshida!
Yoshida: That's the spirit, now let's begin.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Millicas balancing the poles with his hand for a few seconds before it fell)
Millicas: I've done it, Mister Yoshida, look, look.
Yoshida: Wow, you learn really quickly my boy, now you can practice using other parts of your body to try.
Millicas then runs to Arto and Rias who are watching with other adults with excitement.
Millicas: Look Uncle, Aunty, I can do it now.
Arto: You did really well, Millicas, my boy is indeed a fast learner.
Rias: How about you help some friends who are still struggling over there, Millicas?
Millicas: I will.
The boy said as he went to other kids to help them out.
Arto: He's really cute, isn't he?
Rias: And energetic as well, he rarely gets to have fun like this so it's like a fish meets water.
Arto: I hope our kids in the future could be as cute as him.
Hearing this, Rias turns her face to Arto, blushing.
Arto: What? You don't want to have a kid with me? That's sad, I thought you love me.
Rias: No, it's not that, I really want to have one or a few kids with you.
Arto: That's what I thought, more reasons to defeat Riser, am I right?
Rias: Yeah, for our future kids.
Arto: For our future kids.
They said as they shared a kiss.
As the couple was busy kissing, Millicas is being Yoshida's little helper, he aids every kid that is struggling with the pole balancing.
Girl: Awhh, I failed again.
Millicas: Let me help you. Here...*hands her the pole*...now you do it like this. *she follows* there, there, see? You're doing it.l, you did very well.
The girl's face brighten while looking at her hand, then she look at Millicas, who is smiling lightly at her.
Girl: Thank you so much for helping me, what is your name?
Millicas: My name is Millicas, what about you?
Girl: Good evening Millicas, my name is Kunou, nice to meet you, thank you for helping me.
Millicas: No problem, Kunou, my Mommy taught me to help people in need.
Kunou: Is your Mommy over there? *Points at Rias* You two have very distinguished hair colors.
Millicas: That's my Aunty, my parents are busy today.
Kunou: Too bad, can you help me balance with other parts of my body, Millicas?
Millicas: Sure.
The little Gremory put on a smile that makes Kunou blush, then the kids enjoy each other's company
Rias: Look like Millicas has earned himself a friend, look at them go.
Arto: *whisper* Who'd say my boy is a devil? He's just a cute, joyful boy enjoying his first festival in human world, this experience might bring him back here more in the future.
Rias: Yeah, I might get to spend more time with my nephew, which is a good thing. Besides, when he gets older, he'll train in your simulation room too, so he'll be here quite often.
Arto: I would love to see that day come, I have so much to teach him.
As the conversation was going on, Millicas was having his time playing with Kunou, they talked, banter, and laughed with each other.
Kunou: Millicas, your hair is so beautiful, I like its color so much
Millicas: Me too, it's like a signature of my family, I take great pride in it. Your blond hair looks great too, it's so smooth and soft.
Kunou: *blushes* You think so?
Millicas: Yes. Do you want to meet my Uncle and Aunty?
Kunou: I would love to, Millicas, maybe I would introduce you to my mother as well.
The kids then run to Arto and Rias who are standing together.
Millicas: Uncle, Aunty, I made a friend today, this is Kunou.
Arto and Rias' eyes widen seeing the girl.
Arto/Rias: A kitsune I see
Kunou: *bows* Good day to you, Millicas's Uncle and Aunty, my name is Kunou, it's nice to meet you
Arto: She is so cute. Good evening, my name is Arto, Millicas's Uncle.
Rias: And my name is Rias, Millicas's Aunty, did you two have fun with each other?
Millicas: We had a lot of fun together, Kunou is very cute, and I want to play with her more.
Kunou: I'd love that too, can we, Uncle, Aunty?
Arto: Of course you can, I will not object to such cute friendship.
Millicas: Thank you, Uncle, Aunty. Kunou, where is your mother? I want to meet her too, I bet she is beautiful like you.
This causes Kunou to blush and she amberrassely turns to the woman who is standing close to Arto and Rias.
Kunou: Mother, I have made a friend today, this is Millicas.
Millicas: Good evening, Kunou's mother, my name is Millicas, it's a pleasure to meet you.
Kunou's mother: Gremory I see...... Ara ara~ You have such a good manner, little boy, my name is Yasaka, Kunou's mother.
(A/N: No ears and tails though)
Arto/Rias: Yasaka......kitsune......!?
Arto and Rias nervously look at the woman
Yasaka: You two sure had lots of fun, do you want to have a walk in the festival together?
Kunou/Millicas: Yes.
Yasaka: Then let's go, you can ask your Uncle and Aunty to come with us.
Millicas then turns to his Uncle and Aunty with pleading eyes.
Millicas: Will you come with us, Uncle, Aunty?
Rias: Of course we'll come with you, we need to keep you safe after all.
They then get out of the children's event and have a walk along the stalls on the street. Kunou and Millicas are constantly talking to each other in joy while the adults are walking behind them, looking after them in silence. Until......
Arto/Rias: Good day to you, Lady Yasaka.
Yasaka: Good day to you as well, Gremory, human.
Arto: Do you enjoy this festival, Lady Yasaka?
Yasaka: Of course I do, but my daughter here is more important, she doesn't get to go out much.
Rias: It's the same to our Millicas, it's like they are released to their natural habitat.
Yasaka: *giggles* Indeed, they do look very cute together. *eyes sharpen* Are there.....
Rias: No, Lady Yasaka, no politics matters, their meeting is by coincidence, no calculation or scheme under this, we just take him here to enjoy a festival after his good training.
Yasaka: I see, then I'm glad, but if you pull anything schemy with my daughter, you'll know it.
Arto: Yes, Lady Yasaka.
Yasaka: Okay, then let us enjoy the festival......Before we move on, may I know your name, human?
Arto: Yes, Lady Yasaka, my name is Arto, Arto Abyssgard.
Yasaka: Never heard of before, but I dare say you pack many surprises. You didn't just catch Rias's eyes out of accident, Gremory sure knows how to keep their secret.
Millicas: Uncle, Uncle, I want to try that one.
He said as he pointed at the takoyaki stall.
Arto: Alright, let me get that for you. Owner, get me 2 serves of takoyaki, what flavor do you want, Millicas?
Millicas: I'll get the traditional one
Arto: What about you, Kunou?
Kunou: The same as Millicas, please.
Owner: Coming right up.
Arto: Rias? Lady Yasaka?
Rias: Sure.
Yasaka: Why not? The kids are having fun.
Arto: Get me 3 more servings please, Owner.
Owner: Got it.
After a while, everyone is enjoying their serving of takoyaki.
Millicas: This is so delicious~ Thank you Uncle.
Arto: It's indeed very delicious, this is also my first time eating this too.
Rias: You've never had takoyaki before?
Arto: Yeah, back in my past life, I rarely went to human world, most of the time I went there for a mission and returned immediately after that.
Yasaka: I see, but how do you still maintain your past life's memories?
Arto: Because I didn't die the normal way in my past life, if you want to go into detail, I can't disclose that, it's private to me.
Yasaka: I understand, sorry Arto for being too curious.
Arto: It's alright, it happens to everyone. Now, where do you want to go next, Millicas, Kunou?
The trip goes on as Millicas and Kunou try many dishes together from yakisoba to dango. They then try some games for prizes, Millicas is aiming at a cute red dragon plushie as he throws the ball with such strength it creates a hole on the wall behind the stall.
Stall owner: How strong is this kid? Alright, here is your prize.
He said as he gave the plushie to Millicas. After receiving the big prize from the owner of the stall, Millicas immediately gives it to Kunou.
Millicas: Here you go.
Kunou: I can't receive it, you earned it yourself, Millicas.
Millicas: But I want you to take it, this is a gift for you to remember this day, to remember me, cause I had lots of fun today with you, Kunou.
Kunou blushes as she looks at her mother to see her nod in agreement for her to receive the gift. Kunou then blushingly receives the gift from Millicas with a bright smile on her face.
Kunou: Thank you, Millicas, I really appreciate it, I'll treasure this dragon plushie. But I want to get something for you too....I know, I'll get a prize for you so that we're even.
The kids then run to the ring throwing game where Kunou easily win a yellow fox plushie for Millicas
Kunou: Here you go, a gift for you to remember me by.
Millicas: Awww~Thank you Kunou, this one is really cute, I'll treasure it.
The kids then smile at each other before continuing their bantering.
Rias: They are so cute, right Arto?
Arto: They are, I hope they can enjoy this childhood of theirs to the fullest.
Yasaka: You're right, their innocence is the most precious, once they know more about the world out there, they'll never be able to come back to being these carefree children.
The night went on, Millicas and Kunou didn't seem to be able to let go of each other when they ventured to all kinds of activities in the festival: Kanto poles balancing competition for children, dancing, Cultural Exhibits,..... As the group was enjoying themselves, the speaker announced.
Speaker: Announcement, We are preparing for a firework display in 10 minutes, make sure you find yourself a good spot to see the performance with your loved ones. Enjoy!
Rias: Looks like we need to find a spot to see the display, how about the sigil?
Arto: That's a good idea, Kunou, Lady Yasaka, will you join us?
Yasaka: Of course, I can't separate my daughter from her friend now, can I?
Rias: Splendid, let me make a call first.....*clicks*.......Everyone, you heard the speaker, get to our gathering point to see the firework display, alright?....Okay.....We are heading there now, prepare to be surprised, we brought some new friends with us......*clicks*......Alright, let us go.
The group then teleport to the roof the building to see everyone is there: Robin and Akeno are hugging each other happily, Nami has a happy face while Kiba is having a tough time with the stuff Nami bought, Koneko is having a content smile on her face, seems like she spent all the money on food, seeing his family, Millicas pull Kunou by her hand to introduce her to everyone.
Millicas: Aunties and Uncle, this is the friend I made today, Kunou.
Everyone: A kitsune I see.......
Robin: Nice to meet you, Kunou, my name is Robin, did our Millicas treat you well?
Kunou: He did, Miss Robin, he gave me this cute dragon plushie as a gift.
Kiba: What a gentleman he is, good job Millicas.
Millicas: Thank you Uncle Kiba, she gave me this cute yellow dragon in return, something I could remember this day by.
Seeing Kunou, Nami immediately picks her up and hugs her tightly
Nami: She's so cute, like a little fox. You can call me Nami, little cute Kunou
Kunou: Miss Nami, please let me go.
The adults of the group approach everyone, this makes them astonished. They then bow to Yasaka, except Nami who is still cuddling with Kunou
Everyone: Good day to you Lady Yasaka.
Yasaka: Good day to you as well, everyone. Nami, can you put my daughter down?
Nami: Sorry.
Kunou then ran back to hide behind her mother before saying
Kunou: Thank you for your love, Miss Nami, but it's too much for me.
Nami: Sorry, little girl, I was kind of too excited when meeting someone so cute like you. And why is everyone bowing?
Arto: For your information, this is Lady Yasaka, Leader of the Yokai faction in Kyoto.
Nami: *bows immediately* Sorry, Lady Yasaka for my disrespectful action toward your daughter earlier, please don't take my head.
Yasaka: It's alright, I will not punish you since I had a wonderful night today.
Nami: Thank you for your kindness, Lady Yasaka.
Yasaka: Now, what are we here for?
Arto: Oh, right, everyone, let's set up the seats to watch the firework display.
Everyone, Right.
Some mattresses are summoned to make seats for everyone: Millicas, Kunou and Yasaka are sitting together, Arto and his harem are sitting on a mattress, Kiba, Koneko and Nami are on the last one.
Arto: Sorry, Lady Yasaka, we couldn't prepare something better for you.
Yasaka: It's okay, I like it simple this way. Sometimes, fancy stuff makes me uncomfortable. What about you, Kunou, how are you feeling with your seat?
Kunou: It's very comfortable, especially with Millicas here with me.
This causes the little Gremory to blush.
Arto/Rias: So cute....
Robin/Akeno: Ahhh.....young couple
Out of nowhere, the night sky is brightened by the fireworks. Millicas and Kunou hug their plushies as they watch the display of fireworks in amazement.
Arto: Never in my life I thought that explosives could be so beautiful....
Rias: This will be a day to remember, for us and for the kids.
Robin: This is the life I want.
Akeno: I hope you can be here to watch with me, mother.
Nami: This isn't my first time seeing this but this.......is special.
Kiba: Everyone is enjoying themselves to the fullest, I'm glad
Koneko: Sister, are you watching this, I wonder?
Yasaka: Looks like my sweet Kunou has found herself a wonderful friend.
After 20 minutes, the firework display came to an end with a final big firework. After the festival, everything is being cleaned.
Millicas: That was amazing, I couldn't believe how beautiful they are.
Kunou: Indeed, I want to see this more in the future.
Millicas/Kunou: Uncle/Mother, can we see this again together in the future?
Arto/Yasaka: Of course we can, dear.
Millicas/Kunou: Yayy, you are the best Uncle/Mother.
Arto: I know you still have things to say, but it's about time we say goodbye.
Yasaka: You two can talk to each other next time.
Millicas/Kunou: Yes, Uncle/Mother.
The 2 kids then share a hug before parting ways.
Millicas: See you again in the future, Kunou.
Kunou: Don't forget about me, Millicas.
Millicas: I won't, I have this cute fox over here to remind myself about you.
Kunou: Thank you, I have this cute dragon here to remind myself about you.
Yasaka: It's a bit hard to see them saying goodbye like this.
Arto: ......Maybe they don't have to say goodbye.
Millicas: Really Uncle?
Arto: Yes, here.
Arto said as he gave Yasaka a small coin.
Arto: I have a secured private line of magic for these 2 to talk to each other, there will be no eavesdrops, they can talk freely to each other, but you and I will be the ones who supervise the call, how about it, Lady Yasaka?
Yasaka: I don't see any problem with it, but Kunou, you're only allowed to call Millicas when you finish your study, alright?
Arto: Same thing for you, Millicas, I'll give this coin to your mother.
Millicas/Kunou: Yes, Uncle/Mother.
Arto: Now, it's time to say goodbye, it's late and you both need to go to bed on time.
Yasaka: Goodbye for now, everyone. I hope we can meet again in the future. I truly had a wonderful night today.
Kunou: Goodbye, Millicas, call you later.
Millicas: Call you later, Kunou.
Yasaka and Kunou then teleport away, leaving the group behind.
Millicas: Thank you, Uncle, I'm glad I can still talk to Kunou.
Rias: Only if you behave and finish your study and training.
Robin: You'll have plenty of good times together.
Nami: I really want to see that little cute Kunou again.
Akeno: Well, let's return home everyone, it's getting colder, and we sure don't want Millicas to get sick.
From the roof of the building they teleport back to the Gremory mansion in joy and harmony. Everyone retreated to their room and called it a day, leaving Arto, Rias and Millicas in the living room.
Millicas: Best day ever, not only I had a wonderful night but also made a cute friend.
Arto: Millicas, do you want to test out the calling coin?
Millicas: Yes, Yes, Uncle.
Arto: Then sit down now.
Arto, Millicas and Rias all sit down on the sofa before Arto puts the coin on the table.
Arto: Millicas, say her name, the coin will make a call for you.
Millicas: Yes, Kunou.
The coin then turns itself into a screen, with a line 'Calling....' on it. After a moment, the image of Kunou and Yasaka is display on the screen, both of the kids yell in joy as they call each other's name
Millicas: Kunou, this works perfectly.
Kunou: Millicas, I can hear your voice so clearly.
Yasaka: Good evening, little Millicas, Arto, Rias, so this is how this thing works.
Arto/Rias/Millicas: Good evening Lady Yasaka.
The conversation went on for a while until the kids yawned in sleepiness.
Rias: Guess this will be it.
Millicas: *hugs the fox plushie* I'll see you later, Kunou.
Kunou: *hugs the dragon plushie* See you, Millicas.
The screen turns back into the coin as the call is over. Arto and Rias take the kid back to his room before heading back to their room, where Akeno and Robin are waiting, ending a joyous day for everyone, especially Millicas.
Notes:
A/N: And that's the end of the festival chapter, I'm bringing Millicas and Kunou together, because why the hell not. I've got some idea for the next chapter so stay tuned
Chapter 18: The exapnsion
Summary:
Some new additions to the family
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
2 weeks have passed from the festival, but what happened that day still has an effect on everyone, especially Millicas, talking to Kunou is a great motivation for him to train and study harder than ever. Once every 2 days, before bed, Millicas would spend 45 minutes talking to Kunou, they talk about all sorts of things like their studying, training, what happened in their day, funny stories they encountered.
Millicas: Hello Kunou, how was your day?
Kunou: I had a wonderful day, today I learned some dances, let me perform it for you,
She said as she started dancing the traditional dance for Millicas to see, the boy was totally amazed by the elegant dance of the fox girl. He tilted his head side to side to the music that was performed when Kunou was dancing. After the dance, she bowed to her audience and earned a lot of applause from Millicas.
Millicas: That's so good, Kunou, your performance was so beautiful, I love it.
Kunou: Thank you, Millicas, what about you? What did you learn today?
Millicas: I learned some ice magic today with my mother, let me show you.
And the show begins. Millicas performs his magic to Kunou to see, from ice shaping to fighting skills, all to Kunou's amazement. At the end, he made a cute ice fox and showed it to Kunou.
Millicas: I want you to receive this, I worked really hard to make it, too bad I can't send this to you.
Kunou: It's alright, next time we meet, you can give it to me, but will it melt over time?
Millicas: Don't worry, my Uncle taught me a spell to maintain its condition, so you can keep it with you forever without worrying its melting.
Sirzechs/Yasaka: Are you talking to Kunou/Millicas, dear?
Millicas/Kunou: Yes, Daddy/Mother.
The two leaders of the Devil and Yokai faction join the call.
Sirzechs/Yasaka: Good evening, little Kunou/Millicas.
Millicas/Kunou: Good evening, Lady Yasaka/ Lord Sirzechs.
Sirzechs: Lady Yasaka.
Yasaka: Lord Sirzechs.
Sirzechs: It's pleasurable seeing our kids hanging out with each other.
Yasaka: I can't believe how close they have grown after only a short time.
Sirzechs: Indeed, their friendship is growing as fast as their talents.
Yasaka: Agreed, they are a good motivation for each other to grow, my daughter is more hard-working, in order to show her result to Millicas.
Sirzechs: Same thing happened with my son, always eager to learn and train more to talk to Kunou.
Yasaka: I guess we both win in this case.
The conversation went on about daily matters, until the kids yawn in sleepiness, their parents both smile and tuck them into bed, end the call, and retrieve the calling coin.
Sirzechs: This pure relationship should be maintained...
Yasaka: We shouldn't step in...
Sirzechs/Yasaka: And let it grow......
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the calling screen of the calling coin)
Millicas: Unclleee~ Can't you stay a little longer? I want to train with you more.*hugs Arto tightly*
Arto: I'm so sorry, Millicas, I still have plenty of work to complete, so this is a goodbye for now.
Yelena: He's right, Millicas, Uncle Arto is coming home to complete his project, which will get you more time being with Daddy.
Rias: Yes, Millicas, this project is really hard so it needs Arto's attention all the time.
Arto: I'll complete my project as soon as possible, it only takes about 2 or 3 weeks to complete the function and testing, by then we'll see each other again when you come to see my result, okay?
Millicas: Promise?
Arto: Promise!
Millicas: Okay, Uncle. *lets go of Arto*
Robin: Look how attached Millicas is to Arto.
Nami: Arto is like a second father to Millicas.
Akeno: Indeed, Arto will be a perfect father in the future~ Fufufu~ Can't wait till that day.
Rias: Well, the train is here, goodbye father, mother, Yelena, Millicas, we'll see you again soon.
Venelana/Zeoticus/Yelena/Millicas: Goodbye~
The ORC then made their way into the train, back to the human world, ending their wonderful vacation in the Underworld.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a train soaring through the sky)
Issei POV
It was a pretty normal afternoon, I was walking in town to my favorite disc store to buy some porns movies for me and the boys to watch later. On my way, I walk past a house, a mysterious house that I don't know who the owner is, but I bet that person is very rich considering the house
This house only appeared here a few months ago, 2 months after that Aruto Abyga came to this town and took all of the most beautiful girls to himself: from Rias-senpai to Akeno-senpai. I even heard some rumors that Souna Shitori, student council's president has a thing or two for that guy, even Tsubaki Shinra, vice president of student council has feelings for him. Even worse, some people said that they saw him go out with Miss Robin, the most beautiful teacher in Kuoh Academy, the goddess of the school. Students would kill to study in her history class. I myself had a chance to study in her class once and I would say it's worth it, her voice is warm and angelic, her smile is beautiful, her figure is one of a kind, wide hips, round ass, small waist, and BIG BIG BREASTS. The perfect woman for my harem. I even had dreams about having sex with Miss Robin, as well as Rias-senpai and Akeno-senpai, my mind went wild thinking about their beautiful voice when they moan in pleasure as I squeeze their juicy, squishy breasts while f*cking them. But those dream was crashed like a bug when I saw that Aruto being so close, too close with them, even Miss Robin and Nami....Nami....I don't want to mention that name, she has wonderful figure like Miss Robin, her BREASTS is really large as well, another perfect woman for my harem, until...
Flashback
Issei: Did you get her nipples?
Matsuda: No, but I got most of her breasts, take a look.
Motohama: 95-55-85, her figure is indeed very sexy. I can jack off just by these images.
Issei: She's perfect, I want her for my harem, imagine squeezing those boobies make my mind go crazy.
Matsuda: Look at those hips, spanking those fine asses will take me to heaven.
Motohama: Yeah, mind her skin as well, white and smooth, the water that ran down her body makes her even sexier. May I have a lick?
Matsuda: Leave it until we print it.
???: Let me see that.
Out of nowhere a hand took away our camera, looking at the person, it's Takeshi Hamuda, the school thug, his bulky figure causes us to silence.
Hamuda: Good images you took there.
Matsuda: Thanks, she's a new student so she didn't notice when we took those nude pictures of her, she's very hot, right, Senpai?
Hamuda: She is, indeed. When did you take these pictures?
Issei: Just a moment ago, after her P.E class, she took a shower before wearing her uniform, we took that chance.
Motohama: If you need some copies, we'll send you with a good price. A hottie like Nami here is worth it.
Hamuda: I see, thank you for your information, Issei, Matsuda, Motohama. Boys!
From behind us, someone hit us with fists, we fell to the front and got staggered, when we regained ourselves, we realized we were surrounded by about 10 people, including Hamuda, who was still holding Matsuda's camera.
Matsuda: What are you trying to do?
Issei: Give us back the camera.
Motohama: If you don't step back, we'll call the police.
Hamuda: Call them, perverts, call the police, they would want to hear this.
He said as he took out his phone and played the record.
Record: 'Thanks, she's a new student so she didn't notice when we took those nude pictures of her, she's very hot, right, Senpai?', 'She is, indeed. When did you take these pictures?', 'Just a moment ago, after her P.E class, she took a shower before wearing her uniform, we took that chance'.
Hamuda: Combined with these pictures here, your punishment will be.......severe, both from the school and the police, well if you call them. So call them, CALL THEM!!
His words make us silent, we couldn't do shit about this, how did he know we're here? Who told him?
Issei: Hamuda-senpai, let's make a deal.
Hamuda: I'm listening.
Issei: We'll let you keep all those images for yourself, even the camera, you can do whatever you want with them, in exchange, you let us go, sounds good?
Matsuda: Yes, senpai, those images are of the highest quality, you'd love them.
Motohama: You could never take a picture like this ever again, the nude images of one of the hottest girls in this school.
Hearing our offer, Hamuda just sighs
Hamuda: You think I'm like you, a pervert that mastubate by nude images of the woman you sneakily took when she didn't notice? Have you no shame or any decencies? Boys, teach them a lesson.
After those words, we were beaten by Hamuda's gang, punches, kicks, insults thrown at us non-stop, we couldn't do anything about it, there are more of them than us, we could just lie there and push through those beatings. After forever, they finally stopped, our bodies are shaking because of the beatings, we are terribly bruised, the pain can be felt everywhere. They then hold us up and bring us to Hamuda, he then gives each of us a violent punch in the stomach, his punch makes my organ almost turn upside down, before stepping back and talking.
Hamuda: That's your lesson for violating a woman's privacy, feel lucky that I won't give these images and records to the police. Now, there is someone you gotta apologize to.
He said as he took out his phone and made a call.
Hamuda: Aruto, is Nami there? Can you give your phone to her?
He then approach us and give it to each of us
Hamuda: SAY IT, YOU BASTARDS, SAY IT!!!
Issei: I am so sorry, Nami-senpai, we are so sorry for peeking at you in PE class. Please forgive us, we'll delete all those images.
Motohama: Please, forgive us, we promise not to peek at you again, please tell Hamuda-senpai to stop.
Matsuda: Yes, we'll not peek at you again, we have learned our lesson, please spare us.
Hamuda: What do you say, Nami?......You're welcome, these perverts deserve as much. Have a nice day, Nami, if there's any perverted bastard after you, call us.......Goodbye.
Hamuda then give the camera to one of his boys
Hamuda: Lucky for you, we're mercy, we won't show this to your parents or the school council, Deki!
Deki: Yes boss.
He said as he deleted all the images in the camera, then took out the memory card, and destroyed it with a blow torch and hand drill. The camera then is put down where Matsuda was lying in pain.
Hamuda: One more action like that on the girls, the beating will be the last thing you should worry about. Let's go boys.
Hamuda's gang then get on their way, leaving us to fend for ourselves.
End of flashback
I then gotta lie about our beating to my parents, if they knew about this, I would be dead. But there's one thing I knew from the encounter with Hamuda, Aruto Abyga, that bastard was the one who told the thugs about us and caused our severe beatings. Not only that, Hamuda called Aruto to find Nami, which meant they were at the same place, an extra class, a bus, a train, or....or....a date? That son of a b*tch Aruto. How did he know about us taking pictures of Nami? He was absent from school at that time for some reason and only appeared when tests were coming. I don't know, but the more I think about it, the more I hate that Abyga, he just comes and claims all busty and beautiful women to himself. The last thing I wanna see is that Aruto is the owner of that luxurious mansion and all MY future harem women are living there.
As my mind was wandering, I saw something, 2 voluptuous, sexy women are walking to that mansion from 2 opposite direction: one with black hair and casual clothes and one with gray hair and MAID clothes
The most important thing about those women is that they both have HUGE BREASTS, 90+ easy, and they both stop at that mansion. Now I really want to know who is the owner of that mansion and please not be Aruto or anyone related to him. I hide myself and listen to the conversation of the 2 women
Gray-haired: May I ask why you're here at my master's house?
Black-haired: That's something I should ask you, do you have any business with my master? I've never heard about him having a maid.
Issei: Him, so the owner of this mansion is a man.
Gray-haired: You haven't heard of me because I am his new personal maid and I came to take my job. What I am curious about is you, my Lady, I've never seen you with my master ever.
Black-haired: For your information, I am his suc....secretary, he recruited me a few weeks ago, I couldn't be by his side because of some family matters, now I am fully ready to take on my duty so I came here, where he lives.
Gray-haired: I see, the fact that you came to the right spot proves that you have some connection with my master, so tell me, where do you receive information about his house?
Black-haired: R. Called me a few days ago and told me about my duty and this place.
Gray-haired: I see, then I am glad we can be colleagues, I'm Grayfia.
Black-haired: Thank you for having me, Grayfia, I'm Albedo, a pleasure to meet you, our master sure has lots of beautiful women by his side.
Grayfia: Thank you Albedo for your compliment, it's my pleasure to meet you as well.
Albedo: Now let us head inside and prepare ourselves to greet our master's return from his trip.
They said as they each pulled out a key.
Grayfia: Albedo, would you do the honor?
Albedo: Gladly.
Albedo said as she opened the door to the mansion as they both stepped in. I got out of the hiding spot, looking at 2 hot ladies get inside that mansion, more questions popped out in my head, about that mansion and its owner, Albedo said he had many beautiful women by his side, so this dude has a harem? I can't believe it, my idol is living in this town without me noticing. I want to learn from him how to attract hot women to me, but he's not here now so I'll mark this house to ask him later to teach me. I then get on my way to the disc store cause the boys are waiting for me.
Arto POV
I am finally home, after a long trip to hell for my summer vacation, it was refreshing, everything was wonderful, I had my sweet time with my girls their family and I am ready to come back to work, time dilation function is waiting for me to complete, I guess I'll rest for today and start my project tomorrow, external mana storage will have to wait, Millicas is eager to see me again, that boy, he's so cute, he makes people want to cuddle him whenever they see him, he has good manners as well, a prince indeed.
Rias: Home sweet home, what a long trip it is.
Akeno: Indeed, but it's really wonderful, the best summer vacation I've ever had.
Nami: Too bad I gotta leave Mommy Venelana, I want to go back there and become her little girl again.
Robin: We'll have your chance when she visits in the next 2 or 3 weeks.
Kiba: What a journey it is, if it's not for the homeworks, I'd have stayed longer, hanging out with Lord Zeoticus and Lord Sora is really fun.
Koneko: I've had my fill with sweets and fruits, I'm waiting for the scientists to make a new batch of fruit for me to try, I love them so much.
Arto: It's good to be home, as much as I want to stay longer down the Underworld, duties wait, now, let us head inside, I need some rest before starting my project.
Kiba and Koneko then said goodbye to us and went home for some rest. As we entered my house something came up, 2 beautiful voices greeted me.
Albedo/Grayfia: Greeting my Master, welcome home, I hope you had a safe trip.
Grayfia: I've prepared some snacks for everyone since you had a long journey home~
Albedo: I've prepared a good bathtub for you, my master, feel free to take a dip to relieve your stress~
Arto: Grayfia? Albedo? Why are you here?
Robin: Fufufu~ I see you have made your way here, Grayfia, Albedo, getting right into action. Our man will be very pleased.
Arto: Robin? You knew about this?
Robin: Not just 'knew' about this, I told them to come here.
Grayfia: Indeed, she contacted me and offered me a place in your house, and since I want to get to know you better, I decided to come here as your personal maid, but I'll serve everyone in this house.
Albedo: Yes, I'm still surprised that Robin could get in touch with me even though she doesn't know who I am, but she gave me your address in the human world for me to come here and spend my entire life with you as my one and only love. And different from Grayfia here, I am your personal caretaker, I'll serve you and only you, I will not listen to anyone's order but you, my Master~
Arto: Robin, you did this to surprise me, didn't you?
Robin: I did, this is my duty as the leader of this harem, managing your women, old and new, well except Albedo, she's yours, I have no authority over her. Now, go enjoy the services provided by your future wives, Darling~
Arto: But still, I'm not used to being served like this. Are you happy doing this, Grayfia?
Grayfia: Yes, Arto, this is just my hobby, me and Yelena share a strong liking for being a maid, we love it this way. So everything will be like normal except the way I address you.
Arto: I see, then I am glad you are not forcing yourself into this, welcome to the family, Grayfia.
Grayfia: Thank you for having me, my Master~
Arto: And you, Albedo, are you sure you want to be by my side? You have always wanted to be free.
Albedo: I am sure I want to be by your side, Arto, not by the feeling of responsibility but by my pure emotions for you, I want to know my savior better, and I feel safe being with you, I don't want to be brought back to that auction house anymore, and I know I can be free by your side.
Arto: Alright, I got your point Albedo, I am glad we can have you with us from now on. About serving me only, I'm fine with that but don't be too aggressive. If someone asks you for something reasonable and they ask nicely and politely, you should help them too, especially from people in this house.
Albedo: Yes, my Master.
Arto: Since everyone has known Grayfia, it's your turn to introduce yourself, Albedo.
Albedo: Yes, Master Arto~ Hello everybody, my name is Albedo, I am the succubus virgin that Master Arto bought back at the auction house in Sitri's domain. It's my pleasure to meet you today, my fellow sisters in Master Arto's harem.
Rias: Good day to you, Albedo, my name is Rias Gremory, Arto really has keen eyes, you are indeed very beautiful.
Albedo: Fufufu~Thank you for your compliment, Rias, you are so beautiful as well, the beauty of a noble princess, I am impressed, our Arto deserves the most beautiful women by his side.
Akeno: Good afternoon Albedo, I'm Akeno Himejima, it's nice to meet you, Albedo. You are a succubus, yes? *Albedo nods* Can you teach me how to pleasure our man with my body? I want him to be the happiest man in this world.
Albedo: Ara ara~ You are one interesting girl, Akeno, don't worry, I'll show you the way.
Akeno: It's a promise.
Nami: Hi, Albedo, I'm Nami, it's good to have you living with us, I'll show you around town later, we can do all sorts of things together, girl.
Albedo: I am looking forward to it as well, Nami, it's good to have someone show me around this beautiful town.
Robin: You've already known me, Robin, Arto's favorite lover and the leader of this harem.
Albedo: We'll see about that, Robin, cause I am aiming for that position as 'Arto's favorite lover' too.
The two ladies then press their chests against each other as the aura around them darkens, they both put on a deadly smile and sharpened eyes.
Robin: This will be an interesting competition, we both represent Arto's ideal woman.
Albedo: Really? So he likes women with....
Robin: Yes, smart, strong, independent women, with beautiful bodies and long, black hair.
Albedo/Robin: Something we both have in common. So may the best woman wins.
After that, the dark aura disappear and they are now back to their gentle selves and hug each others
Robin: I love you so much, Albedo, it's good to have some friendly competition.
Albedo: Me too, Robin, you'll be one tough opponent even though you are a human.
Rias: What just happened?
Akeno: I don't know but this will be interesting.
Grayfia: Now that the introduction is over, let's have a light snack, everyone.
We then get in the kitchen to be surprised by the smell of the snack Grayfia made us, I want to dig in right away, with these smells.
Grayfia: Enjoy.
Arto: This is so good, Grayfia, these snacks are indeed one of a kind.
Rias: We have welcomed another cook to our house, the meal will be so good I must say.
Nami: I can eat like this everyday, I love you, Grayfia.
Grayfia: You'll love me more when main meals come
After the snack, I went to the bathroom for a dip in the bathtub. The moment I come in, the comfy scent of the bathroom hits my nose, makes my body relax and let loose, I slowly approach the bathtub and check the water temperature to see it's just the right temperature I want for my bath water, how did she know about all this? Robin? I then stop thinking before taking off my clothes and head inside the bathtub. The moment my body fully submerge in the water, my body feels lighter, all the tiredness from the trip disappeared completely without a trace, my eyes slowly close due to the comfort of the bathtub, I was about to sleep, the door of the bathroom opened, revealing 2 certain individual
Robin: Good day to you, my love~
Albedo: Greetings, my beloved Master~
Arto: Robin? Albedo?
Robin: We came to help you wash yourself.
Albedo: Considering your reaction to my bath water, you are in too much comfort to properly clean yourself, so here we are.
They said as they took off their towel, revealing their magnificent naked bodies before heading inside the bathtub and positioned themselves at either side of me and let their hands run freely across my upper body with excitement and giggles.
Albedo: Master sure has a wonderful, strong, manly body, touching these scars makes feel so hot~
Robin: You'll soon get addicted to his body once you start sleeping with him, something you'll start doing from tonight as one of Arto's future wives.
Albedo: I'll gladly do so, I need lots of warmth and love from my Master after all, and looking at him now, how can he refuse a woman that represents his fetish? Fufufufu~
Robin: Arto dear, what happened? You haven't heard you said anything.
My body is paralyzed in comfort both from the water and the touches of the ladies, even my finger isn't functionable now. The only thing that is functioning right now is my brain, who is still fighting the sleepiness that is attacking me non-stop.
Albedo: I think he is too comfortable to do anything now, which means we can do what we want with him.
Robin: Well, not bad I must say, then don't mind us, my love.
Robin said as she started to lick my body from my neck down. Seeing that, Albedo decided to not stand out of this as she started to lick too, their tongue running across my body in the arousement of the ladies.
Albedo: His body is indeed really delicious, all these muscles and abs have wonderful taste to it, and the scars, I love licking his scars, they gave fantastic sensation to my tongue. Do you lick his body often?
Robin: When he fell asleep before us due to working all night the day before, Rias, Akeno and I spent a good amount of time enjoying his body with our tongue, and the girls loved his taste: Rias loves his neck, Akeno is attached to his abs while I always enjoy his nipples when I have a chance.
Albedo: Then have you ever tried....
Robin: No, he doesn't allow us to.
Albedo: I see, then we won't touch it, now let us feast on our man.
They said as they kept enjoying my body, Albedo was having her sweet time licking the scars on my chest while Robin played with my nipples with her tongue and finger. The erotic feeling of their touches on my body combined with the stimulating smell from their body is waking my inner beast up, something I fought so hard to imprison, my lust, the longer they do this the harder to resist their charm, I must do something, but what? My body is paralyzed, my mind is sleepy and drowsy, I am losing this battle against my inner desire, the cage with the beast of lust inside is in its weakest state in ages, it's being constantly damaged by the monster inside, must stay focused, must suppress it. As I was losing and the beast inside me was about to get out and take over my body and will likely hurt my women, the door of the bathroom swung open, bringing some air from the outside world into the bathroom inside, snapping me out of the drowsiness and bringing back my senses. I immediately set my brain back into motion and put an end to the rampage of the lust inside me, the beast is now back in its cage with cuts and bruises all over its body, the cage is also enhanced with magic to prevent it from getting out.
Grayfia: My Master~ I have brought your clothes for you to change.
My savior came in at just the right time, the right moment, to save me from myself. I regain my composure and speak to a blushing Grayfia, maybe because of seeing what Robin and Albedo were doing to me.
Arto: Thank you, Grayfia, you can put my clothes over there.
Grayfia: Yes, Master~
Albedo: Grayfia, come join us here, will you?
Robin: Come and service your Master here with your body, Grayfia.
Arto: Grayfia......
Grayfia: Don't worry Master, this is what I want, nothing is against my own will. Let me serve you with my body not as your maid, but as a woman who has romantic feelings for you, Arto. Will you allow me?
Arto: This might give me a chance to enhance my inner defensive system... Okay, Grayfia, come in here with us.
Hearing this, a smile appeared on her beautiful blushing face. She then slowly takes off her clothes and tries to be as sexy as possible as she flexes her fantastic body to me. But this time, I am prepared so I'm not affected by her effort
Albedo: Beautiful body you have there, girl~
After being fully naked, Grayfia gets inside the bathtub, kneels before me and summons a wet bathing towel and starts rubbing my whole body with it.
Grayfia: You and Robin didn't even try to clean his body, you just indulge yourselves into his well-toned figure. Let me show you how to properly clean your man.
From my front to my back, she skillfully makes me clean, she even leaves my sensitive spot for me to clean myself, what a maid she is. After cleaning me, she looks at Robin and Albedo, who are sitting at either side of me.
Grayfia: You two have been in here for half an hour and you still look dirty, looks like I'll have to take this matter into my own hands, come here you two.
Robin and Albedo look at each other then put on a smile before approaching Grayfia
Albedo: Let's see how you go, Maid.
Robin: I am looking forward to your service with our bodies, Grayfia.
Grayfia then proceeds to clean the black-haired ladies with the wet towel in their moans of pleasure. After the cleaning session with Robin and Albedo, they are now panting in pleasure, as they are both distracted Grayfia positions her naked body on my lap, gets as close as possible to me, her upper belly touches my chest, she presses her chest to my face to the point my head is now deep in between her breasts
Grayfia: Let me be the one who will wash you hair, Master~
Her seductive voice makes me unconsciously nod to her request. She then happily get the shampoo and starts to wash my hair, her fingers on my head move lightly, comfort me in every way possible, it's like she is massaging my head and wash it at the same time, combined with the fragrance smell from her breasts up close to my face, my body is taken back to the comfort paralyzed state, but I am prepared this time, nothing will come out, so I can enjoy the comfort provided by my personal maid without worrying my lust will take this chance and hurt my women.
Grayfia: Feel free to touch my back dear~ I know how much you like a woman's back from when you lotioned me back at Crystal lake.
I don't know what is commanding me as my arms wrap around her back and pull her closer to me, this makes my face go deeper into Grayfia's large breasts. After pulling her in close enough, my hands started to do the job as it rubbed her back up and down massaging her back at the same time, this earned some moans from the maid out of pleasure.
Grayfia: Ahh~ Your hands are so strong, my Master, keep ahh~ going, your beloved maid ahh~ loves your touches, show me more affection.
As I was enjoying her smooth, beautiful back, I could feel something weird, her hips moving slowly back and forth on my lap.
Grayfia: I am so sorry my Master, a~h~h~ I can't help myself, ahh~, your touch was too pleasurable, my body started to move a~h~hh~ on its own, please forgive me, my Master.
Hearing her apologize, I just nod to tell her that I forgive her, but what she said afterwards astonished me
Grayfia: Which means I can continue?
I don't know what to say, and don't notice that my hands are still rubbing her back. After a few moments, she started to grind her hips against my lap again.
Grayfia: I'll take your silence as a 'yes', now let me pleasure you,my Master~.
Well, 'everything will be normal except the way I address you' she said, I'm glad she is doing what she wants instead of doing as I say. And the grinding went on and on. Until some dark aura can be sensed from behind Grayfia, it's Robin and Albedo. Even Though I can't see, the atmosphere of the bathroom is intense, it's like a war could start any moment now. I look up from Grayfia's chest to see she has a smirk on her face as she turns back to look at the other 2. Suddenly, the dark aura died down in the defeated sighs of Robin and Albedo.
Albedo: Guess you won today, Grayfia.
Robin: Guess you are now one up from us, we underestimated you, the silent one is always the most dangerous
Albedo: When you stayed silent back then, I thought you wouldn't join this competition, but I was wrong
Robin: You might not have the appearance that fits Arto's fetish.
Albedo: But you have the skill-set of a Maid, skills that specialize in taking care of people...
Robin:...something that we both lack.
Albedo/Robin: So GG, Grayfia. We have a lot to learn from you.
Grayfia: Thank you, girls. Now, for my reward.
She said as she cupped my face with her palm and move me from my comfort position in between her breasts and place a loving kiss on my lips, she even wraps her arms around my neck to keep me in place, I reply by wrapping my arms around her lower back and blend into the kiss with my one and only maid. After a good 5 minutes, we separated and I got to see her beautiful blushing face.
Grayfia: I love you, Arto Abyssgard, I love you so, so much, will you accept this maid as one of your women and let me stay by your side and love you for eternity?
Arto: I love you too, my dear Grayfia, but did you do this out of your own will or the sense of responsibility to make up for what I did for you?
Grayfia: It's my own will, my own emotions I have towards you, my savior, my warrior, my man, my Arto Abyssgard.
Albedo: She's not lying dear, what do you say, Robin?
Robin: A council meeting will be held tonight to decide her fate with Arto.
Arto: I see, then it will be decided tonight, Grayfia, it'll be like back then, at the council room.
Grayfia: Now I need to buy everyone off, huh?
They then shared some laughter because of her response. After a quick rinse, I head out of the bathroom, leaving the girls behind to dry their hair, getting out of the bathroom, I meet.....
3rd POV
Robin: Did you see it, Albedo?
Albedo: Yes, it's strange, Grayfia has been grinding her hips on his crotch for 10 minutes straight, but....
Robin: He didn't have any trace of erection. Normally, these actions could trigger the erection easily, not to mention the woman who did that is Grayfia, an extremely beautiful woman with the body that could make many men get a boner just by looking at her....
Albedo: And Arto here just didn't get hard at a naked Grayfia who was grinding her hips constantly against his crotch, but us as well, this is indeed very abnormal. Could it be he is....*pale*
Robin: There's no way he is suffering from Erectile Dysfunction, I check his health every month. This thing began way before you girls came. I had some doubts when he showed no trace of erection when he slept with me, Rias and Akeno in a naked state. So I secretly brought him to the hospital for a detailed check but no trace of Erectile Dysfunction. Lucky for me, Arto doesn't know much about hospitals due to having never been there, so he happily complied without any trace of doubt. Even the doctor there was surprised about his case but he insisted that's not ED, still the reason he could that is unknown. I even did a second check and the result is the same.
Albedo: Weird, so the only way to know.......
Robin: .....is to ask Arto himself.
Grayfia: Which is kind of hard since this is not only his private matter but also a sensitive one. So that's the reason why I felt nothing back then, it's strange, really, my sister said that this trick would make a man erect like immediately, she learned that from Lady Venelana and tried it out on Sirzechs and it worked perfectly every time, but Arto....
Robin: We'll discuss this matter later, I don't want to get too deep into Arto's private matters, but I'm also curious about it.
Albedo: This matter might not affect our love for him, but this will affect our future with him when we want to have kids with him.
Grayfia: I think we should approach this matter slowly, I don't want him to think that our love for him is just lust.
Robin: Agreed, now let us dry our hair, using this.
She said as she made a magic circle that cast it on the 3 of them, make their hair dry immediately.
Grayfia: Wow, this is really handy, where did you learn this spell?
Robin: I made this myself.
Albedo/Grayfia: Huh? Ehhh!?
Albedo: You made this yourself, how?
Robin: You didn't know? Arto has a set of formulas that can help you make a spell in minutes.
Albedo: He made that kind of thing?
Robin: Not really, he made some of the formulas but most of them came from the Science and Magecraft Department of his old Legion, Abyssgard.
Grayfia: I see, so that's why you usually call him your teacher.
Robin: Yes, in magecraft, I am nowhere near his ability, he can even combine magic and modern technology and make lots of interesting stuff.
Albedo: Like?
Robin: A simulation room, everything you think of can be brought into reality, but what is made by the room stays inside the room, Gremory clan and Sitri clan have been using it constantly for many purposes like growing crops and medical testing, it's also used as the training ground for Rias Gremory, Sona Sitri and their peerages.
Grayfia: I see, that's why they get stronger so quickly after each time I see them.
Albedo: My Arto isn't only a wonderful individual with a great personality, but also a highly intelligent man, I'm loving him even more now.
Robin: Not just simulation technology, do you remember the snack you made back there in the kitchen?
Grayfia: Yes, what's about it?
Robin: It can be completed faster using Arto's time dilating technology that he put inside the oven, fridge and other kitchen equipment.
Grayfia: You gotta teach me how to use those functions.
Albedo: Are there anymore? I want to know more about my eternal love.
Robin: That's all for now, there is more interesting stuff in his notebooks on the shelf in his room. I even found writings about a bean called Zensu made by Abyssgard scientists that helps heal any wound in a short amount of time. It's like Phoenix Tears but much easier to produce and transfer.
Grayfia: So Arto isn't just smart but also has gigantic resources of technology for himself.
Albedo: Can we get our hand on those resources?
Robin: You'll be able to since you're his women, but don't ever spoil his secrets and technology to anyone, not even your parents or siblings without his permission, the punishment for that action will be severe, he might even kick you out of the family after erasing your memory and he would kill anyone that you spoil these secrets to, and you know how gentle and kind Arto is.
Albedo/Grayfia: We understand.
Robin: Good, now let's get out of here, Rias, Akeno's turn is coming. I am going to tell Arto about you wanting to learn his formulas.
The group then put on their clothes and get out of the bathroom, only to see Arto is talking to Rias, Akeno.
Rias: So that's why you have their smell all over your body.
Akeno: You took a bath with Robin, Albedo and Grayfia but you refuse to take a bath with us.
Arto: I didn't do it actively, they barged in the bathroom when I was defenseless. You can ask them if you want.
Rias: Alright, Albedo, Grayfia, Robin, did Arto actively take a bath with you?
Albedo: No, Robin and I just took the advantage when Arto is deep in comfort and loses his ability to move or fight back to take a bath with him.
Grayfia: And I was dragged in by these ladies when I brought clothes for my Master to change.
Robin: All in all, Arto is innocent and he still loves us all.
Rias: Alright, I saw no trace of lies in your words, so I'll let this slide.
Akeno: But to make up for us, tomorrow, you'll have to take a bath with us.
Arto: Okay, I'll take it.
Rias: Good *smooch*, now let us take a shower, Akeno.
Akeno: *smooch* Right after you, Rias.
Arto: Whew, I'm glad we could resolve that problem safely and soundly, thank you for saving me, girls.
Robin: No problem, there's one matter, Arto, these 2 want to learn your formulas.
Arto: I see, I'm glad you want to learn, I'll give you the books later, but remember....
Albedo/Grayfia: Not a soul will know about this without your permission....
Arto then put on sharp eyes while looking at the women before him.
Arto: Keep that in mind, alright?
Albedo/Grayfia: Ye...yes, my Master.
Arto's eyes went back to normal
Arto: Splendid, now let us make dinner for everyone, Grayfia?
Grayfia: Yes, you go ahead I'll be right behind you.
Arto: Alright, be quick, I'm waiting.
He then gets downstairs, leaving his women behind.
Grayfia: I've never seen his eyes like that before, razor sharp eyes that could kill a person with a weak mind.
Albedo: It looks really threatening, like a wolf eyeing its prey.
Robin: That's how serious this matter is, when you see the formulas, you'll know why, in the wrong hands, they can bring destruction to this world, so remember to keep these formulas a secret in this family only.
Albedo/Grayfia: Yes.
Albedo: Now, I'm heading out to explore this town with Nami, see you later, Robin.
Grayfia: I am going to help Arto with dinner, I'm eager to know about the time dilating function of the kitchen's equipment.
Robin: Go enjoy yourself, girls.
And the day went on pretty normal when Albedo followed Nami around town and Grayfia helped Arto with dinner and learn how to use time dilation function of kitchen equipment, where these 2 become closer to each other.
(Timeskip: Brought to you Chibi Arto pointing at the oven and telling chibi Grayfia how to use time dilation functions)
Rias: These dishes smell so good~ I love them. You really went all out today huh, Grayfia?
Akeno: Yes, they all look really delicious, I just want to dig in right away.
Robin: Now we just need to wait for Nami and Albedo to return. What is your purpose behind this, Grayfia?
Grayfia: Just a little lobbying before the council meeting is all.
The girls then saw the intention of Grayfia and started to giggle.
Rias: You're so cute, Grayfia, but not just us need care, Sona is also a part of the council as well.
Akeno: And Tsubaki?
Robin: Technically, Tsubaki isn't a part of Arto's harem, she has some romantic gestures toward our man but she hasn't confessed her feelings to him. So she will not have a vote in the council meeting tonight.
Akeno: I wonder what is holding her back? I'll talk to her about that matter later.
Grayfia: About Sona, I've sent some cakes to her earlier.
At Sona's house
Sona: These cakes are so good, just the way I like it, but what is this 'Vote Grayfia' about? Wait....I see~
Back at Arto's house
Rias: You're really serious about the meeting tonight, huh?
Grayfia: That's right, I want to be with Arto as one of his lovers, not just his maid.
Robin: I can see your effort, Grayfia, don't worry, everything will be alright.
Akeno: It will not be like that council room in hell, we are a family here.
Nami: We're home!
She said as she got inside the house with Albedo beside her, they were both carrying lots of bags with them.
Rias: So that's why you took so long, how was the shopping?
Nami: Very good, we bought lots of new clothes for Albedo, but one third of them are nightgown and lingeries.
Albedo: Master would love to see me in those sexy lingeries and nightgowns when I serve him every night in his bed as his faithful wife, hehehehe~
Akeno: Just clothes?
Nami: Yes, the makeup equipment, perfumes, bathroom stuff were all provided by Mommy Venelana, and they are all renewed when they run out, so the only thing left is clothes.
Rias: My mom is just the best, she knows exactly what we need.
Grayfia: Now it's time for dinner, we have a council meeting afterward.
Arto: Yes, but I'm not joining this council meeting, this is just a thing among you girls, so I'll be in the basement of the ORC clubhouse and prepare for my project.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by plates that reads 'Vote Grayfia' being stacked on each other)
After the delicious dinner made by Grayfia, everyone is now sitting on the bed in Arto's room in their nightgowns: Rias, Robin, Akeno are sitting together as the council executive board, Grayfia is sitting opposite to them, Albedo is sitting to her left, while Sona is behind Grayfia in hologram from her house, Arto and Nami are in the basement of the ORC clubhouse to prepare for the project that will start the next morning
Robin: Welcome everyone to the council meeting of Arto's harem, I am Nico Robin, the leader of the council as well as this harem, I have 2 assistants of mine here who is Rias Gremory and Akeno Himejima to help me run the meeting today, we also have the attendance of 2 other member of the harem: Sona Sitri who will run the lie detecting spell today and Albedo who is one of the 2 witnesses. Rias, please tell us what case we are having today?
Rias: Yes, the case we have today is that Miss Grayfia Lucifuge here wants to have a place in Arto's harem as one of his lovers. She confessed her feelings to Arto this afternoon when they were taking a bath together, there were 2 witnesses there according to Miss Grayfia : Miss Nico Robin and Miss Albedo.
Akeno: May I ask you, Miss Robin: can you confirm that Miss Grayfia has confessed her love to Arto this afternoon in the bath?
Robin: I can confirm that she did that this afternoon.
Sona: No lie was detected, you can continue, Akeno.
Akeno: Good. Now, to Miss Albedo: Can you confirm that Miss Grayfia confessed her love to Arto this afternoon in the bath?
Albedo: I can confirm that she did that this afternoon.
Sona: No lie was detected, you can continue.
Akeno: In order to be sure about the testimony, we will proceed to check the memories of the witnesses and Miss Grayfia combined with an illusion check and false memories check, this procedure will be done by me and Miss Rias Gremory here. Do we have your consent to conduct this check?
Robin/Albedo/Grayfia: You have my consent.
Rias: We'll only check the memories from the beginning of the afternoon, so all the other information will be kept secret to protect your privacy. The supervisor of this process will be Miss Sona Sitri.
Sona: I'll supervise the action of Miss Rias and Miss Akeno to make sure none of your private information will be peeked.
Next, Rias and Akeno then proceed to put their thumbs on Albedo and Robin's forehead and rest their other fingers on their cheek. On the forehead of Robin and Albedo, many magic circles appeared as Rias and Akeno closed their eyes as well as Robin and Albedo. Sona in her hologram moves behind Rias and Akeno and makes a spell that helps her see what the former 2 are seeing. In the process, Grayfia is sitting still and waiting for her turn.
After about 5 minutes, Rias and Akeno opened their eyes.
Rias: We can confirm that what the witness saw was true, now to miss Grayfia here.
Grayfia: I am ready for my memory check.
Rias: Good, I'll be the one who will check your memories so please sit still, Miss Grayfia.
The process begins again, after another 5 minutes, Rias and Grayfia open her eyes.
Sona: All the records all point to one conclusion: what Miss Grayfia said was true, she has confessed her feelings for Arto this afternoon in the bathtub.
Robin: Now, to the next part of the meeting, the questions: Miss Grayfia, when did you start to have feelings for Arto?
Grayfia: From when he contacted me via messages one month before my judgment day about my future consort. He tried his best to calm me down, soothe my worried mind, and keep me positive by his stories and prevent me from tapping into my problems, he advised me to spend my time on something I like to do and he accompanied me through those time, he asked me lot of question about house managing, cooking, cleaning, help me get back into my hobby of being a maid, I usually call him 'My Master' when messaging him, and he happily submit to that role-play game to help me being happy again, and get my mind out of the problems with Razer Phenex. I started to like him from then on, his gentle, kind, compassionate personality really conquered me even though I don't know what he looks like. He refused to send me an image of himself. He told me he wanted our conversation to let our personalities shine, so appearance shouldn't be involved....
Rias: That's our Arto. Then?
Grayfia: Then came my judgment day, this is the first time I got to see Arto's appearance, and I must say, I was blown away by his look. On the limousine heading to the council room, he reassured me about our victory with such confidence I rarely see in anyone, not to mention a human when facing a high-class devil, this gave me lots of confidence before heading inside the room with that Razer Phenex.
Akeno: Then came the battle....
Grayfia: Yes, seeing him handling that Phenex with ease, that's when his mana pool is very low, I can see a man doesn't just can make me happy, but also could protect me and step up for me anytime I need him, I feel my affection grow with each punch he lands on that bastard's body. But after hearing his reason for saving me, not just my feelings, but my curiosity about him grew uncontrollably: He saved me isn't because he wants my attention or love, but simply my sister asked him to, because she put lots of faith into him, because he promised her to set me free to be with the man I want.
Albedo: Whoa, my Master is indeed one of a kind.
Grayfia: After that is the story time with Rias, Akeno, and Robin. I get to hear about a fragment of his past, his life, his pain, his suffering, things that made him into the person I am deeply in love with now. More importantly, he doesn't take advantage of my admiration and gratitude for him to get in a relationship with me, he snaps me out of the stories told by Robin, reminds me about the value of freedom and I should consider my choice carefully. From that moment on, the only man I could think about was Arto, we got back to talking via messages, but this time, we shared many footage of our daily life for each other to see. I grew more attached to him from there, a smart, strong man, but gentle and simple, a man I want to be with for the rest of my life.
Sona: Wow, what a story it is, no trace of lies.
Robin: Now, the most interesting part of this meeting: the vote. Who disagrees, and again, DISAGREES with Grayfia's request to join this harem? Show me your magical sign.
No sign could be found.
Robin: Good, now, Who AGREES with Grayfia's request to join this harem? Show me your magical sign.
Everyone show their signs
Robin: Then it's concluded, Grayfia Lucifuge is now officially the new member of Arto's harem, welcome to the family, Grayfia.
Everyone then gets into a group hug with Grayfia.
Grayfia: Thank you everyone for accepting me. I'll do my best to become the greatest woman I can be for Arto.
Robin: I know you can be, girl. Now, to the fun part, let's head to the bath together, shall we?
Grayfia: All of us? *Robin nods* Why?
Rias: We need to be as clean and fragrance as possible to greet our man home.
Akeno: Since he rarely looks at our bodies, our touches and smells will get his attention the most.
Robin: Yes, since Arto has mastered senjutsu by learning it from the snow wolf where he used to live, he has the ability to use and sense life energy, and turn himself into a wolf. Because of this, some traits of the animal are still on his body like his sound-sensitive ears, and strong sense of smell.
Albedo: And I know just the perfume that can make him sway, his reaction this afternoon shows it all. We'll use his enhanced sense of smell to make him fall for us.
Robin: And you have proven to us how clean you can make a person with a towel in your hand, this is the time for that.
Rias: Make us as clean as possible, Grayfia, for our man to enjoy.
Akeno: He'll love it when he returns to see his beloved women clean, fragrant, naked in bed, waiting for him.
Albedo: Intriguing, let's go, Master Arto will be home soon, we need to prepare ourselves to greet him.
The Ladies then head inside the bathroom in Arto's room together, taking a blushing Grayfia with them.
Notes:
A/N: Grayfia has officially joined the harem, some lovey-dovey scenes between Arto and his new lovers will come in the next chapter so stay tuned. See ya.
Chapter 19: The time
Summary:
New shiftment in time budget for everyone around Arto
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Arto: Thank you for helping me Nami. Everything is now fully prepared for tomorrow.
Nami: No problem, this is not just for me, but for all of us, and it will bring LOTS OF MONEY.
Arto: Talking about money, Nami, I wanna ask you something.
Nami: Yes?
Arto: You are obsessed with money, right? *she nods* I want you to help me manage my money, I am too busy with other matters and I haven't been minding my finances and let the girls freely use it as they want. But I can't let that happen when our family has more members. I need someone who can keep all the spending and earnings in check, manage the taxes, give me consults in financial matters, help me with financial plan making, and represent me when investing. You can do that, right?
Nami: You trusted me with that? I'm just a thief.
Arto: I look into your history and saw some interesting information about your past: you have many degrees and certificates in finance: PhD, CFP, CFA, CPA, PFS.....You worked under a Mafia boss for years and help him launder lots of money and get away with many efforts of police. When he died because of his underlings, the next boss wanted to kill you to erase the trace, so you ran, and ran, and ran. You couldn't go back to your specialty because of your past so the 'Cat Burglar' was born.
Nami: ....So you knew?
Arto: I knew
Nami: ....Aren't you afraid? I might steal your money and get away, I might trick you and take everything for myself. Aren't you afraid, Arto?
Arto: No, I am not, because I know you wouldn't do that.
Nami: Why?
Arto: Because you love this family, you love us. That Mafia Boss kidnapped you, forced you to help him launder money with a gun behind your head, you helped his underlings to kill him only for them to betray you. For years you've always been living in doubt for everyone, everything around you, that's why you always work alone no matter how dangerous the heist is, you don't trust anyone, you are scared they might betray you again. Until....
Nami: ....I met you, Arto, for the first time in years, I could live a normal life, you didn't just save my life, but you gave me a new beginning, where I can just be a normal student named Nami, go to school, hanging out with my friends, go shopping, travel here and there, without a care about someone might come to kill me. More importantly, you gave me the warmth I have been missing for years, the feeling of having a loving, caring family, a family that loves me unconditionally, doesn't mind my past, I couldn't ask for more.
Arto: So that's why you love Lady Venelana so much.....
Nami: ....Yes, she gave me something I've been craving my whole life, mother's love, her warm smile, her loving hugs, her delicious dishes, when she said she would be my mother if I want, I jumped at her offer, I don't care if she is a devil, I just want a mother, a mother for an orphan, fend for myself my whole life, work and study at the same time till university graduation. I have always wanted a mother that loves me, cares for me.
Arto: What about a father?
Nami: My father was the one that left me at the orphanage, I later found out that my mother died in the process of giving birth to me, so my father.....you know.
Arto: Another horrible father....no....creator .....maker....never a father...never thought she would be like me back then....at least he didn't keep her around to torture her like what my creator did to me.... How did you find out about that?
Nami: After I graduated, I started to investigate my past, that's when I found my father, I then came to see him. In his drunken state, he thought I was his wife, he tried to hug and kiss me. After sobering up, he screamed in horror and used anything he could get his hands on to beat me, while calling me a killer, and that I am responsible for his wife's death, this is the source of this scar.
She said as she showed him a scar on her head.
Nami: So I ran away again, only to be kidnapped by the Mafia and it went on like you said.
She said as some tears leaked out of her eyes, seeing this, Arto came to her side and hugged her into his embrace, lightly rubbing her back to soothe her pain.
Arto: It's okay, it's okay now, you're safe with us, with me, everything is in the past, you have a new life ahead of you with new family, new allies, no one will betray you, no one will leave you, no one, no one, I'll make sure that, I promise.
Nami: Thank you, Arto, for giving me a home, a family, a mother, that destined night with you really changed my life, now I know why I keep extending my stay here even though a part of myself tell me to leave, to go back the life of the 'Cat Burglar', because I can't leave you all, because I love this town, I love being Nami, I love this family.
Arto: We love you too, Nami, we'll be there for you, always.
They tighten the hug as the tears keep flowing from Nami's eyes, but this isn't the tears of sadness and pain, this is the tears of happiness and harmony. They keep it that way for a few minutes, in silence and compassion. Arto and Nami finally let go of each other, while putting on a warm smile, Nami's eyes are still red due to her crying. In hiccups and sniffles, she told Arto
Nami: Arto, you have *hiccup* won me over to your side, *sniff* so I'll do it, leave your money to me,*hiccup* not a penny will go to waste *sniff* while I am its manager.
Arto: Thank you, Nami. You've had a long day, get some good rest, we'll go into detail about finance management tomorrow.
Nami: Thank you....
She then places a kiss on Arto's lips
Nami: .......for everything, you rock, Arto.
Arto then get to see her beautiful blushing face in the moonlight
Arto: You're welcome, Nami, thank you for being a part of this family, a part of my life, I'll see you tomorrow.
Nami: See you, Arto.
Arto POV
She then proceeds to dance her way back to her room, this puts a smile on my face seeing my Nami is back to her cheerful self. After watching her getting inside her room, I sigh in relief and return to my room as well, where my women are waiting for me. Approaching the door of his room, I see that the door is tightly locked with many layers of magical alarms. I can even sense some well-disguised spying eyes of Robin on the door, not just locks, many sound barriers were put on as well to prevent anything leaking out from inside. I knocks on the door, immediately, the spying eyes opened to look at me, after a few moment the door opened, revealing a naked Grayfia, seeing me, she talks in seductive voice
Grayfia: Welcome back, my darling Master~ Please come in, we are waiting for your return~
The smell on her body, it's the same smell in the bathroom that rendered me paralyzed this afternoon in the bathroom. This time is way stronger, I immediately know I'm in danger, they know exactly what can make me weak, but I must head in, no where else to go.
Arto: Thank you girls for waiting for me, you must have been very sleepy now.
Grayfia: Nope, we are still enjoying ourselves, we just can't sleep without you by our side.
Arto: I see, now will you let me in, Grayfia? I need some sleep to prepare myself for tomorrow.
Grayfia: Yes, my Master, please enjoy the heaven we made for you, and for you alone.
Grayfia and move to behind the door and open it for me. As I come into the room, the scene before me is burned deep into my mind forever. My room is filled with beautiful naked women: Rias, Akeno, Robin, Albedo, Grayfia all have nothing on their body. The moment I come in, the girls look at me with loving and lusting eyes. At the same time, the smell of perfume hit my nose, making my vision blurry, my body slower and more stiff.
Robin: You have returned, my beloved~
Rias: Like what you see, Honey~?
Akeno: Our man is deeply in love now, seeing us like this.
Albedo: Fresh, clean, fragrant, beautiful to greet him home, my beloved Master.
Arto: Good evening girls, how was the council meeting?
Grayfia: *hugs me from behind* It's a beautiful success, Master~ Now I am officially yours, like I've always wanted~
Grayfia then pushed me lightly from behind, to the bed, where 4 other women of mine are waiting, naked. I couldn't do anything, they are using my enhanced sense of smell to their advantage, I am hypnotized by the beautiful fragrance and follow everywhere Grayfia leads me to. Getting closer to the bed, the smell got stronger with every step. Grayfia then turns me around, and pushes me to sit on the bed, then she immediately climbs to sit on my lap, pushing her breasts to be close to my face, which brings more of those perfume smells directly into my nose. After that, she cupped my face in her palms and look straight into my eyes
Grayfia: I'm yours, my Master, yours and only yours, I will devote myself to you, to make you happy, not just as your maid, but as your lover, your wife, your woman.
Arto: I love you too, my beautiful maid Grayfia, I'll do my best as well, for you to feel loved and happy, not just as your Master, but as your lover, your husband, your man.
Grayfia: I'm glad. Now, love~me~, Master~.
She said as she smashed her lips against mine, wrapping her arms tightly around my neck. Since my body is being hypnotized by the fragrance of my women, I unconsciously wrap my arms around her lower back, pull her as close to me as possible, and blend deeper into our kiss. After a few moments, the kiss wasn't enough to satisfy us anymore, so a French kiss was used. My tongue and hers invade each other's mouth and get into action quickly as we start to taste the combined texture and flavor of our tongues and saliva. I can hear her moan in my mouth, this makes me want more of my maid.
Suddenly, I can feel wet sensation on my ears, neck, and the scars on my back, the other girls has joined the fun: Akeno and Robin are licking my ears, Rias is licking my neck, and Albedo is indulging herself in my scars, the beautiful moans of theirs is adding to the erotic scene, my inner beast is one again stirring inside my brain and started to break its cage, but this time, you're not getting what you want, lust.
I remain calm, composed and enjoy the pleasure my women are bringing me, nothing will be fed to the monster of lust inside me. I don't know how long it has passed, it feels like Grayfia and I have been kissing for hours, but we showed no trace of air shortage, our tongues enjoy their time together and refuse to let go.
In pleasure, Grayfia started to do that again, she started to grind her hips against my lap, the sound of our flesh colliding each time her lower stomach touches mine make the kiss even sexier. Finally, we have run out of air, she must separate no matter how much we don't want to, leaving a trail of saliva connecting us both. We pant heavily while looking at each other in the eyes, she's beautiful, my Grayfia, she's utterly beautiful, the red blush on her beautiful white skin keeps my eyes focused on her face. Even after we separated, she kept the grinding going, her hips smashing against stomach constantly, no trace of stopping.
Grayfia: I am so sorry, my Master, your body just feels too good, I can't stop it, my body....my body, it wants you, my Master, it wants you so badly....Can you help me stop it, Master~? I don't think I can stop it on my own~
Arto: As you wish, my beloved Grayfia~
I said as I grabbed her butts with both of my hands, squeezed it tightly, this earned a loud moan from Grayfia but it stopped her hips from moving.
Grayfia: Thank you, my Master, I love you~
Arto: *smooch* I love you too, my gorgeous Maid.
Grayfia then gets off my lap, this is the moment I feel it, the wet feeling on my lap.
Arto: You sweated so much, my Grayfia, I don't know doing that could be so tiring.
Grayfia: I'm so sorry, my Master, let me just clean....
Arto: There's no need for that, Grayfia, get some rest, you've worked out a lot after all.
Robin: What a steamy kiss you shared there, Grayfia, Arto~.
Rias: How does it feel~? 25 minutes of constant deep kissing?
Grayfia: I am addicted to him now.
Akeno: Fair enough, Arto is the best man after all, always knows how to make his women feel loved and appreciated.
Arto: There's one person left, Albedo, come here, my beautiful succubus. *pat my lap*
Albedo then immediately jumps on my lap and looks at me with lustful eyes.
Albedo: I thought you'd forgotten about this little Albedo.
Arto: I'm so sorry it took so long for our first kiss together.
Albedo: Then let's.......
Arto: .....Wait,.......
Before I could say anything, her lips found mine with tremendous speed and we kissed. Albedo took it one step further and wrapped her wings around me, preventing others from stepping in and securing me to herself. After having me, she started to attack my mouth using her tongue. Our tongues meet where our lips connect and the battle begins, I must admit, her tongue is strong and skillful, but the balance on the battlefield could only be maintain for a few minutes before Albedo's tongue started to be pushed back and losing the high-ground, I took this chance to attack constantly, not letting her fight back. In the end, the battle for dominance in the kiss has its victory, me and Albedo's tongue has now submitted to me and I can do whatever I want with her.
After the battle, I turn back to the gentle love, and treat her tongue with kindness. Our tongues twirl around each other lovingly as I can see something weird in her eyes, her pupils have a heart shape now. And just like Grayfia, for some reason, her hips started to move on their own, smash furiously against my laps as she started to moan into my mouth. On and on, she tries to get something out of me, but to no avail as I remain stoic. For my reply, I started to rub her back with my hand, this made Albedo moan louder in my mouth. Albedo using her wings to keep me for herself left her behind unprotected, so the other girls took this chance and teased the succubus.
Robin: Oh Albedo~, you have quite a cute pair of wings here~
Akeno: Mind if we touch it, dear~?
Albedo cannot answer due still being in a deep kiss with me. I can hear her saying 'no' in my mouth but others can't, so......
Grayfia: I'll take your silent as a 'yes', Albedo~
Rias: Let us have a little fun with your body while you are still busy with our man.
And the fun begins when Rias and Grayfia are licking Albedo's neck and ears from behind, their moans make the succubus more aroused as she blends deeper into the kiss with me. At the same time, Akeno and Robin are teasing her wings, touching them lightly and making them twitch.
Robin: It's so sensitive, dear~
Akeno: This will be so much fun~
And the teasing goes on, I can hear Albedo's screams in my mouth as Robin and Akeno stimulate her wings with their hands, but due to me holding her close with my arms wrapping tightly around her back, she can't fight back. The teasing makes her hips move faster and stronger, the sound of her stomach as it hits mine makes Robin and Akeno more aroused and they keep teasing the succubus. After 25 minutes of kissing, Albedo has reached her limit, not by air shortage but from the stimulating thing 4 other women have been doing to her, she reluctantly got out of our kiss and let out a loud scream, at the same time I felt a wetness soaking my lap. She then lean her head back while panting, this worried me so much since I have never seen any girl of mine being like this
Arto: Albedo, are you alright? Please tell me, did they tease you too much, Albedo?
She then gets her face closer to me as I can see her smile, the smile of satisfaction.
Albedo: You are the best~, Master~, made your succubus feel so good, I love you, my Master, I love you so much~, your woman is really pleased~.
Arto: Thanks, I love you too, my dear succubus, I guess I made you happy, still I didn't know what I did.
Albedo: Just know that you made me a happy woman, that's enough. *smooch*
Arto: *smooch* I see, now, let's go to sleep, it's really late now.
Girls: Agreed.
Then everyone get in their position, but this time, things is a little different with 2 more positions: Rias and Robin are still securing Arto's arms for their own, Akeno is still on his chest, Grayfia and Albedo are laying their head on his shoulder and hug him across his stomach.
Arto: Good night, my loves, see you in my dream.
Robin: This will be your first time fighting in Arto's dream, so prepare yourselves to witness our man at his full strength.
And they are slowly driven into slumber by the warmth and comfort from each others' bodies.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto and his harem in chibi form sleeping together)
The morning came as I stirred awake, last night's battle was quite easy considering I had more team mates with me. Albedo and I created an unstoppable front line, I can't believe how strong she is with that physique of hers, her combat ability is great, she could take on many giant enemies with ease, the way she swung that axe is really the opposite of her gentle nature, well, toward me. And gotta mind her protective attitude toward me too, she killed a few hundreds monsters in a few seconds after one of them landed a lucky strike on me. I'll take a mental note to keep her rage and love in check, especially in battle.
Akeno, Rias and Grayfia did a wonderful job with the hybrid role between long-ranged and close-ranged combat, whenever Albedo and I were overwhelmed by their number, the second line immediately came to help and fell back when the situation was controlled. Rias and Akeno did their job really well as usual and their power is growing gradually each time they fight in the simulation room and my dream. Akeno, Akeno, I couldn't say anything about her, her fighting ability is really complete and all-rounded, magic was used accurately at the right moment, her skill with naginata really took everyone by surprise because of how skillful she is, Robin jokingly compares her to Tomoe Gozen in modern day to which I must say, she's getting there, to the same level with the legendary warrior. Not gonna lie, currently, Akeno is the strongest member in Rias's peerage.
Rias has getting better and better at hand to hand combat, her destructive punches really made all the enemies went pale whenever they saw her, her magic ability is growing as well, they way she uses her destruction power is more versatile and more effective, she can coat herself in a destruction armor now, it doesn't just enhance her punches but all the enemy's attacks thrown her way was destroyed completely by her armor. She is practicing coating her allies with her armor and it's growing with surprising speed. Rias has learned from Robin a lot, she can now process information at high speed, not as high as Robin and me, but fast, Rias's destructive eyes really brought us lots of valuable information in the battlefield, as well as being a good weapon when it can explode as she commands
For the first time I can witness the true power of Grayfia, leader of the second line, her control over ice is one of a kind, her skillfulness left me in awe, not just ranged combat, her fighting skill in close-quarter is exceptional as well, a fitting for a Queen in a peerage, well, if she join one I guess.
Last but not least, my favorite, Nico Robin with the leader role, makes the battle way easier due to her unparalleled information processing. Only with one look, she immediately knows what our enemy is trying to do and acts accordingly, in just fractions of a second. She made battle plans for us, found the enemy's weak spot and made accurate spells to support us from behind. Sometimes, she took the matter into her own hand and went to kill the enemy's important individual like the frail leader or their magic caster by teleporting through the eyes and ears she put on the enemy's side to gather information.
I take a good look at all of my girls, they are sleeping to peacefully despise having a fierce battle last night. The way they snuggle into my body, murmur my name in their sleep, kisses and tight hugs, this puts a smile on my lips, these girls are precious to me and I love them, so so much. Seeing them fight together in the team really bring me back to those time when I fought with my legion mates, we were not this close in normal life, but in battle, we are the best comrades, always look out for each other, leave no one behind, formations and strategies, swords and magic, painful but happy time indeed. Sadly, none of them made it through the 2nd Abyssal War. Well, I hope they have a better life waiting for them at the end of the road.
I sigh in relief as I lay myself back in bed and enjoy my girls cuddling in another peaceful morning Kuoh, since I'll have to start my project soon, I'll have to make the most of it and enjoy my women to the fullest before departing to work on my new function for the simulation room.
Arto: Where is Radia, I wonder? I want to hear some songs from her.
I think of my bird as she immediately appeared above me.
Arto: Where were you?
Radia: chirp chirp
Arto: You overslept on the train? So that's why I didn't see you back home, sorry for forgetting about you.
Radia: CHIRP CHIRP!
Arto: I said I'm sorry. Come here and let me make it up for you.
Radia: chirp chirp~
I then place a kiss on Radia's head, which cools her down, she's now not mad at me anymore and is happy again.
Radia: chirp chirp?
Arto: Yes, more women, aren't they beautiful? I love them so much.
Radia: chirp CHIRP chirp?
Arto: I love you too, Radia, my favorite hell singer.
Radia was really happy about what I said and started to sing. Her melody has the vibe of love and comfort, her light melody doesn't wake my lovers up but makes them snuggle deeper into my body, and sleep more soundly. After 30 minutes, I told Radia to stop, I know she is passionate about singing but I can't let her overworking herself. Another 30 minutes was spent in the comfort of my lovers, until one of them stirred awake, my maid Grayfia.
Grayfia: How did I do, Master~?
Arto: *smooch* You did really well, Grayfia, I was taken aback by your all-rounding skill-set, you can handle both long-ranged and close-ranged combat, support-position, leader-position, you're a complete individual, but I want you to be more decisive on the battlefield, I can't give you order all the time. You can do very good no matter how abstract my order is, so be more confident next time.
Grayfia: *smooch* Thank you for your words, my Master~, your Grayfia will do better next time.
Arto: I know you will.
We then share a deep kiss, which she really loves
Grayfia: What do you want for breakfast, Master?
Arto: I want something that can help me stay full for a long time, I need to start working on my project so it's up to you to take care of the girls for me, I have taught how to use the time dilation in the kitchen equipment so....
Grayfia: I'll do my best, my beloved Master~
Arto: Thank you, Grayfia, I love you~
Grayfia: I love you too, my dear Arto~
Akeno: Nghh~ Good morning, Darling~ How did I do last night?
Arto: You did wonderfully, your skills with the naginata really blew me away, it's like you were dancing among the monsters with that weapon of yours, beautiful yet deadly and practical, your use of magic was accurate. And just like Grayfia, you could improve yourself to be more independent. All in all, come here and let me kiss you, Akeno.
Akeno immediately accepts the invitation and gets into a deep kiss with me.
Akeno: Your lips is so delicious, my Arto~
Arto: Yours too, my beloved Akeno~
Akeno then laid herself on my chest again and started to play with scars by licking them and lightly moaning in excitement. She then turn to Grayfia and point at my nipples
Akeno: Grayfia, try this, it tastes really good.
Grayfia: Then don't mind me, my Master~ Itadakimasu~
She started to lick and suck on my nipples which brought me some ticklish comfort because of how squishy and soft her tongue is. As the 2 early birds are enjoying their meal on my body, the third one wakes up, my Succubus Albedo. The moment she opens her beautiful amber eyes, she immediately cups my face in her hands and examines my face with a worried look on her face.
Albedo: Did it hurt, my Master? How dare they? HOW DARE THOSE PIECES OF SHIT TOUCHED MY BELOVED MASTER IN FRONT OF MY EYES, NOT TO MENTION HURTED HIM, THE MAN LOVE WITH ALL MY HEART? Death was too merciful for them....I should have....
Hearing her cursing her enemy, I place a kiss on her cheek, turn her attention to me
Arto: Albedo, I am totally fine, look at me, no cut on my face, yeah? Everything was just a dream. Now you can stop worrying and show your Master your love by giving him a morning kiss?
Albedo: *Eyes brighten* Gladly, my Master.
She said as she pulled me into a kiss. While she's doing so, Grayfia and Akeno don't seem to mind what she's doing and keep on enjoying my body by licking my nipples and scars.After a few minutes, Albedo let go of me with a content smile on her face.
Albedo: Thank you for the morning dose of love, Master Arto~ I am looking forward to more love throughout the day, my Darling~
And Albedo took my neck for her own as she started to lick it, and moan in arousal.
Rias/Robin: Can you keep it down? I am trying to sleep here.
Arto: Good morning, sorry for waking you up, let me make it up for you two.
Robin: But who are you going to kiss first?
Rias: Arto?
3rd POV
Arto then disappeared from the bed, leaving the women who were enjoying his body in awe, the next moment, 2 Artos appeared opposite to the bed and slowly they approached Rias and Robin for a kiss, the ladies are both hesitant about the scene before them.
Arto1: What happened, my love?
Arto2: Don't you want to kiss me?
They said as they slowly get their face near the ladies lips, before
Rias/Robin: Fake.
Albedo: It's too obvious.
Grayfia: You can't get past your women with that cheap trick.
Akeno: You should try harder next time, Darling.
Rias/Robin: Come out from the bathroom, Arto, you can't hide forever, I want my morning kiss.
Arto then comes out the bathroom with disappointed look
Arto: How could you know? I tried so hard for that trick
Robin: 1. That's MY specialty magic, don't you ever think you can fool me with that.
Rias: 2. How could we call ourselves your women when we can't tell the real and the fake apart?
Robin/Rias: Now, kiss me!
Arto sighs in defeat.
Arto: But is this a defeat? They can't be fooled by a fake me, I should be happy about that, but this needs further testing, now..........
Arto: You first Rias, just like the old order.
Rias smiles happily as she spreads her wings and flies to Arto and kisses him on his lips, the kiss lasts for a few minutes as she separates from him with a beautiful blush on her face.
Rias: Arto, how did I do last night?
Arto: You did really well, your fighting skill has improved a lot, you saw those monster face when they met you with that fist of yours
Rias: They were dead before I touched them, which is really funny.
Arto: Yes, and that destruction armor of yours, I love it, really effective in both offense and defense, the fact that you could put that armor on everyone really is surprising and interesting. Now you can work on maintaining it and cast it faster on your allies, so that you can reduce the mana amount it consumes.
Rias: Got it, love you, Arto~
Arto: Love you too, Rias~
Robin: About me.......
Before she could say anything, Arto places a kiss on her lips and silences her right away, the kiss goes on romantically until they have to separated after a few minutes
Arto: What can I say? You're perfect, Robin, I love you~
Robin: That's what your favorite wants to hear~
Grayfia: Arto?
Arto: Yes?
Grayfia: Have you ever thought about having a peerage?
Arto: I have, since I want to be a Devil in the future.
Rias: Really?
Arto: Yes, I mean, I was a Devil in my past life, so going back to being a devil is my priority since I am more used to demonic energy than other types. Besides, being a Devil will give me my full strength back.
Robin: So you are now weaker than your past self?
Arto: Physically, yes, mentally, no. Becoming a Devil will enhance my strength and speed, especially my mana pool, so that I can use more spells.
Albedo: I see, so will I have a place in your peerage in the future, Master?
Akeno: Yes, I wanna know that too.
Rias: Tell us, tell us.
Arto: I have had some thought about it and I have the perfect spot for you in my peerage: Albedo, you'll be my Rook, your physical strength is exceptional and you can work well independently, smart with strategic mind, not to mention you have good magic base, I can help you improve that, so that you can be a Queen-like Rook.
Albedo: Thank you Master, I'll do my best under your instruction.
Arto: Next, Bishop, Robin, my love, this spot is for you. Your intelligence is unparalleled, your strategic mind, your information processing ability, your magic will help me greatly.
Robin: I see, thank you for having me, my love, with me by your side, your victory is promised.
Arto: Lastly, my Queen, this spot will be secured for Grayfia, the all-rounder, high strength, exceptional magic ability, high intelligence, your power will bloom in this position.
Grayfia: Thank you, my Master~ Being your Queen is my happiness and I'll be the strongest Queen for you. Yelena, just you wait.
Rias: That's a strong line-up you have there, Arto.
Akeno: Indeed, just mentioning Grayfia and Robin makes me not want to face you in Rating game.
Robin: Most importantly, being Devil means we can be with Arto longer, since Devils have quite a long life.
Albedo: We can have lots of kids, raise them, see them go on their path and do it all over again~
Grayfia: This could be a starting point for the Abyssgard clan.....
Arto: I don't know if I should do that...I don't know if I want to do that... Abyssgard is a Legion, never a clan, it's created to fight against the Abyss, but this world isn't threatened by the Abyss, so the existence of the Abyssgard is unnecessary. Besides, I don't want others to know about me, the resources I am holding is too important, too dangerous to be publicized, they will draw many attentions my way, which will likely bring danger to you, my women, when they will try to get their hand on my technology, they might harm you, and use you girls against me, that's why I don't want to come out to the light.
Rias: Yes, the spell making formulas of yours will be dangerous when in the wrong hands, being able to make a spell too easily without control could bring destruction to this world when dangerous spells can be made in no time. Because the only thing that is standing between those mad men and their evil goals is the complication of spell making.
Robin: So that's why you seek protection from big clans like Sitri and Gremory, they will help you maintain your secrets, their protection will prevent others from seeking you out and harm your loved ones. You can just let the scientists of the clans take all the credit for your achievement.
Albedo: But are you willing to do that, letting others get credits for what YOU have done?
Arto: I will, I have gotten past appreciation thirst, all I want is a peaceful, lowkey life with you girls, my lovers, I don't need to be known, I don't need to be praised, don't need to be admired by those fake bastards that will turn their back on me any moment I fell. I just want my lovers by my side, all the way till the end of time.
Grayfia: And we will be by your side, till the end of time, as you lovers, you wives, your women.
Rias: So if we have kids in the future....
Arto: They will carry your clan's name like Gremory, Lucifuge, Sitri or Robin, their name will be their protection, I will be a mysterious husband in the dark, they just need to know you have gotten married, the identity of that man will be a secret.
Albedo: Easy enough, but what about me, I have no surname?
Arto: That means you can choose whatever surname you want for our offspring.
Albedo: I'll think of a good one for our kids.
(A/N: Help me think of something guys, leave your opinion in the comment of this line)
Arto: But there's something I want to pass down to the next generations
Rias: What is it?
Arto then shows the women his eyes, inside there is something that astonishes them.
Akeno: That blue flame burning in your eyes
Rias: It looks just like the bonfire in your dream.
Albedo: It's beautiful, the bright blue flame.
Robin: The burning symbol of hope and will.
Grayfia: You want to pass this down to our children?
Arto: Yes, this is what we call the 'Will of the Abyssgard', this is the thing that push me through every pain in my life, keep me moving forward, preventing me from committing suicide, the source of all my power. This thing was built-up from the first of the Abyssgard, through every generation to my point, where the will is represented in the blue flame in our eyes. I want to pass this down to our children, an unbreakable will, an unbeaten spirit, and a valiant heart.
Akeno: It will strengthen our offsprings greatly, no matter what kind of power they have, weak or strong, it will bring them forward with progressive attitude, strong will that will never give up, always striving for the better. This is stronger than any Sacred Gears, or any kind of power, this won't just push the kids forward as individuals, but as a unity as well, just like the warriors from the Legion of Abyssgard, people from everywhere, every class, every condition with different backgrounds, stories, power, but share the same will.
Arto: That's right, they can come in any name, but the will remains the same, that's the legacy I want to pass down, not power, not technology, but the will to help them forge their own path, to their desired future.
Rias: It seems I have chosen the right partner for my life.
Albedo: My future husband is indeed one of a kind.
Grayfia: You'll be a wonderful husband, we are lucky to be your women.
Robin: Your future offspring with us will have themselves the best father fate can offer.
Akeno: Can we start making kids now?
Albedo: Yes, Master, I am always available, we can start making kids anytime you want.
Arto: Alright, girls, hold your horses, I honestly do want to have some if not lots of kids with you, but not now, that thing is for the future. Now, I have bad news for you....
Grayfia: What is it, Master?
Arto: In the next 2 weeks, you will rarely see me.
Albedo: *pale* 2....2....2....weeks?
Robin: 'Time dilation', right?
Arto: It needs my constant attention, so I'll have to sleep in the simulation room to complete the project.
Albedo: Then let me.......
Arto: No, Albedo, it's too dangerous, you can't accompany me, I'm sorry, my dear.
Grayfia: Then what about eating, Master?
Arto: I'll have 30 minutes everyday for eating, I'll get out of the room at that time, so you can bring me food then, from 3:30 p.m - 4:00 p.m everyday.
Grayfia: I see, I'll make you lots of delicious food to help you regain your energy.
Arto: Thank you, Grayfia. Rias, Akeno, Robin?
Rias/Akeno/Robin: Yes?
Arto: Take care of everyone for me, alright? Especially Albedo, she's not used to this.
Robin: We will, my Darling~ We will wait for your return.
Rias: We have made it through one month without you, we'll help Albedo cope with the situation
Akeno: Everything will be alright, you needn't to worry, we are your strong lovers after all.
Albedo then barges at me with teary eyes
Albedo: Master~, you can't just come and make me deeply in love with you, then suddenly limit the time I can see you each day to 30 minutes for 2 weeks, I can't make it, Master. I need your constant presence and love.
Arto: I know you can, you are my strong Succubus, you have everyone here to take care of you, this is also a chance for you to get to know everyone in the family, you can train with them, talk to them, hangout with them, I'll be home very soon, before you even notice that I'm gone.
Albedo: Please be home soon, my Master, your Albedo can't live without you to love her.
Arto: I love you, Albedo, my beautiful Succubus, this will be hard to us all, but we can get through this.
Rias: Yes, Albedo, you're not going to be the only one suffering from this, our man too. He hates being alone to his core, and now he has to separate himself from his women for 2 weeks. We need to be strong for him, this is our chance to build it, the 'Will of the Abyssgard'.
Akeno: Indeed, Arto would love his women to be strong, for him and for themselves, this will be nothing but a challenge, a challenge to prove ourselves worthy of his love, to show him our will, we are the lovers of the Abyssgard, we have the 'Will of the Abyssgard'.
Grayfia: Besides, he's not leaving us completely, we have 30 minutes a day, we have to make the most of it instead of weeping about how short it is. Master, we'll miss you, but we'll be stronger when you return to our embrace
Robin: You can start the project anytime, we'll keep everything in check for your return, I'll take care of the class and the training for everyone, I'll give Grayfia and Albedo the documents for their study, everything will be the same, you can focus everything you have on the project and return to your lovers as soon as possible.
Arto: Thank you, my loves, this means a lot to me, I will be back as soon as possible, girls, while I am gone, remember....
Girls: Your secrets are safe with us, not a soul will know.
Arto: I'm glad, now it's time for breakfast, Grayfia and I will cook today, you go to take a shower, we'll see you in the kitchen.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a clock ticking)
Albedo POV
Arto: Albedo...My beloved...It's not your fault...It's not your fault...I love you, my Succubus...I love you so much...Goodbye...
Albedo: Master~~Huh!? MASTER!! Where are you? Master!! Please don't leave me!! PLEASE!! PLEASE!! I LOVE YOU, PLEASE COME BACK TO ME!! MASTER.
Robin: ALBEDO!! ALBEDO! Snap out of it. It's just a dream, a dream, a dream, Arto is still with us, with you, with me.
I can feel Robin's arms wrap around me as tears flow out of my eyes, my voice got stutter
Albedo: Mas...master...where...where...are *sniff* you?...Please don't...leave...leave...me *sniff* alone...
Grayfia: It's okay now, okay now, you're back with us, back to reality, Arto is not going anywhere, he hasn't married us, he's not allowed to go anywhere.
Rias: Yes, Arto is a man of his word, he'll never leave our side, he's our man, ours and only ours.
Akeno: Our Darling is strong, he's not that easily defeated, trust me, he'll come back for his women no matter what.
Albedo: Thank you, girls, thank you so much for helping me, sorry for disturbing your sleep, 3 days in a row, I...I...I...
Robin: There's nothing to be sorry about, he told us to take care of you, and that's what we're gonna do, as a family, as sisters and as Arto's women.
It's another day, waking up without my beloved Arto by my side. I know I've just been with him for a day, but I can't think of anything but him, Arto Abyssgard, my beloved Master, my lover, my future husband, the father of my children. The moment he said goodbye to everyone and headed inside the simulation room 3 days ago, everything is not the same anymore, the living room is not the same anymore, the bathroom is not the same anymore, the bed is not the same anymore without him. Lucky for me, because of the girls, I am distracted from my longing for my beloved Master. Robin, Rias, Akeno, Grayfia, Nami and I sleep together everyday, where everyone share stories about my beloved Arto
Rias: Let me tell you about the time when I first ventured into Arto's dream, everything was dark and scary.......I found him, bravely pushed back all and I do mean ALL the monsters to protect the flame, the 'Will of the Abyssgard'.......He instructed me a new skill.......
Akeno: Then the next day, when I slept with him, I got a chance to go to his past, meet his younger self.......He was a brave little warrior, tormented from the day he was born by his creator....then came the survival mission, where he truly has a life, better than the castle....but it ends eventually when they come to capture him and threw him in the arena again....He cried his eyes out when I recognized the little boy is him....
Robin: Our first meeting was kind of eventful......he found his way into my information network with just an ear I showed him....but that ear binds our destiny, take me here with you girls, and I'm happy I showed him that ear...
Nami: My first meeting with him was kind of painful....I didn't know he was at the mansion with me, until I was beaten by the guards. He let his presence be noticed and saved me from that mansion.......
The stories really help me feel less lonely and make me love him more, not by his appearance but by his personality, his intelligence, his bravery, compassion, empathy, and his 'Will of the Abyssgard'. They really help me sleep more soundly, encountered less nightmare, and Akeno even gave me the body pillow with Arto's image on it for me to hug, these girls, this harem, Arto has built a amazing, helpful, faithful harem and I'm glad I am a part of it, a part of this beautiful family.
Robin: Good morning, class. Today, I'll be the substitute teacher for Arto, who is now busy with his project in the simulation room. We have 2 new students today, Grayfia and Albedo who will start learning with us from today.
Grayfia: Thank you for having me, miss Robin, my name is Grayfia Lucifuge, I hope we can get along, my fellow classmates.
Albedo: Good day to you everyone, I'm Albedo, Master Arto's personal succubus, thank you for having me and I hope we can get along.
Grayfia and I have joined Arto's magic class with everyone else, Rias, Sona and their peerage, all gathered in the house's living room, to study together under Robin's instruction.
Robin: Alright, everyone, let's open your textbook to page....
Seeing people working so hard like that, I can't stand still, I must improve myself until the day he returns, so I started to study, as I study, the curiosity for knowledge took me away from missing Arto, so I dig deeper into his books, use curiosity as a method to make time flow faster, like the time dilation function he is making, to the day my love return to me.
Albedo: Grayfia, are you cooking for Master Arto?
Grayfia: Yes, I am, do you need anything?
Albedo: Can you teach me how to cook? I want to make delicious dishes for my darling Master as well...
Grayfia: I see, then let me help you, not just for our Master but for yourself as well, I'll help you feel less missing our man.
And so I learned cooking from Grayfia, she is indeed a great cook, she taught me from the smallest thing like how to hold a knife to how to use time dilation embedded in the kitchen equipment, from then on, I join her everytime she cooks to learn as much as possible, especially when she cooks for Arto, all the dishes she made for him look really good and nutritious because he only eats a meal a day so not just quantity but quality of the food is important as well since he only has 30 minutes a day to eat.
Clock: *Ding ding ding*
Grayfia: It's time, Albedo! Help me carry the water please.
Albedo: On it.
Rias: I'll get him some new clothes to change.
Robin: I'll prepare the training result today to show him.
Akeno: I'll prepare some fruit as the dessert for him.
Nami: He'd love to see my financial plan I made for him.
We then teleport to the basement of the ORC, carrying food and drink for Arto. The moment we came, he hadn't come out yet, so we took the time and set the table for him to enjoy his only meal of the day before getting back to work. After a few minutes, the door opened, revealing a sweaty, tired Arto with some bruises on his body and he was carrying a big empty jug of water. He pants heavily but still puts on a smile to make his women less worried, even in his exhausted state he still prioritizes his women.
Arto: Hello girls, how was your day?
Albedo: Everything was great, Master, I've been studying a lot under Robin's instruction, but I miss you, my love.
Arto: I miss you girls too, my dearest lovers.
Grayfia: Enough chatting, you need to eat, Master.
Arto: Right, Thank you Grayfia.
He said as he gets to the table and starts eating, I move behind him and start hugging him as he eats, something that I am allowed to do to make me feel less lonely when he's not around. As he was eating, he said.
Arto: This one is so delicious, you did a great job with this one, Grayfia.
Grayfia: Fufufu~That dish was made by Albedo, Master~ Your compliment should be for her.
Arto: You did a great job with this dish today, Albedo, you have improved a lot the last 3 days. *smooch*
Albedo: Thank you, my Master, I have tried my best to make you happy, so that you can come back to me sooner.
I said as I hugged him tighter, I don't want to let him go, my man, I want him to stay, I don't want him to go.
Arto: Robin, how was the training result for today?
Robin: I am having it right here
She said as she gave him the papers. He take a look at all of the papers in a few seconds before saying
Arto: Very good, looks like everyone is doing their best. I'm glad.
Robin: Yes, everyone is improving themselves everyday, especially Albedo, her skills in spell making are improving with exceptional speed.
Arto: I see, good job, Albedo, I am looking forward to the day you can show me your result.
Albedo: Thank you, my Master, my love for you took me that far, I'll do my best to improve myself and you'll be surprised the day you return.
Nami: Arto, I have finished the basis of our financial plan, take a look.
Arto then takes the stack of paper from Nami and reads them closely.
Arto: I see your points, keep going with this direction.
Nami: Right
After finishing his meal, Akeno brought him his dessert.
Akeno: Darling~, this is the newest batch of fruit from the Gremory research team, please give it a try.
Arto: They smell so good, c'mon girls, dig in.
Akeno: You eat it, love, we've had them for lunch today, it's really delicious.
He then takes a bite of the fruit and I can feel him smile in joy.
Arto: This is really delicious, great smell, taste and texture, they are giving their all with these fruits, I love them.
Akeno: I'll make sure to let them know your opinion, Darling~
Now the meal is done, Rias brought him the new clothes to change.
Rias: Here you go, new, fresh clothes, give me the old one to wash.
Arto: Right.
Arto then proceeded to take off his clothes to change. As he's now naked, Rias casts a spell on him that makes his body perfectly clean.
Arto: Thanks, my dear princess.
Rias: No problem, my love~.
Arto then put on his new clothes
Clock: *Ding ding ding*
That damn clock, stop ticking I want to spend more time with my Arto
Arto: Looks like we have ran out of time, girls, see you tomorrow, I love you.
He said as he kissed each of us on the lips and returned to the simulation room with the big water jug on his shoulder.
Albedo: We love you too, my darling Master.
After Arto's daily short break, we return home and mind our own business: Nami with her financial plan, Robin with students and questions from the lesson, Grayfia with cleaning and washing Arto's clothes, with magic of course, Rias and Akeno with their paperworks, I returned to my room, get my books and started to study again, prepare myself for the training session in the simulation room.
(Timeskips: Brought to you by Chibi Albedo dreaming about Arto while hugging a pillow)
I'm now standing in front of the simulation room, the place that my Arto has been in for 6 days now. I'm training with Robin, Nami and Grayfia today inside the simulation room. According to Robin, Master is working in the foundation of the room and what he's doing will not affect other sections like the training ground or the labs of Gremory and Sitri clan, so the training and researching can go normally without any disturbance.
Robin: Are you ready, Albedo, Grayfia?
Grayfia: Yes.
Albedo: Are there any chances we can see Master Arto in here?
Robin: If we see him, the room is surely in trouble, each section is completely separated and Arto is working in the foundation of the room, if we see him, there is a high chance that things from one section can come to another section, do you want to see monsters from the training ground invade the labs and kill everyone?
Albedo: No, but....
Nami: I know you miss him, we do too, but we shouldn't let our selfish desire affect other's safety, Arto wouldn't want that to happen, he worked so hard to build this room after all and the last thing he wants to see is the room malfunction.
Albedo: I'm so sorry everyone, I let my desire shrouded my mind, I....I....
Grayfia: It's alright, I miss our man like crazy too, do you remember how much I said his name in my sleep?
Nami: Yeah, you were like: "Mas~~ter~~please~~stay, your~~Grayfia promises~~to be a~~good girl"
Robin: You were so cute, Albedo too, you kissed me so passionately while dreaming about Arto.
Albedo: Sorry, Robin.
Robin: It's alright, I like kissing you girls, well, not as much as Arto, but a good substitute in his absence, you can kiss me or any girl in his harem anytime you want, you have the permission from the leader.
Albedo: Thank you, Robin, now if you excuse me.
I said as I pulled Grayfia into a passionate kiss, the Maid quickly blended into the kiss with me for a few minutes after letting go.
Albedo: I needed that, thank you, Grayfia.
Grayfia: Anytime, Albedo.
Robin: Now that everything is settled, can we start training now?
Everyone: Right.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Albedo looking intensely at Arto's photo)
Nami: Goodness, your strength was insane back there, you killed that metal giant with a punch, I still remembered its astonished face.
Albedo: I'll be Master's Rook in the future so I need to be strong for him, I'll be his muscle.
Robin: You did really well with those enhancing and defending spells of yours, they tried in desperation to deal damage to you while you made their formation crumble.
Albedo: Thank you for your compliment, I still have much to learn from you and Master. I want to fight with strength and magic at the same time like Master and Grayfia.
Grayfia: With your progress now, you'll soon achieve your goal. Master will have 2 Queens instead of one, he'll be very pleased seeing you trying like this for him.
Albedo: Of course, I am his precious Succubus, his strong lover, his future wife, he will see the best version of me when he returns.
Nami: Now, who wants a bath?
Girls: Me.
We then go to the bathroom together, before preparing the daily meal for my Master.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Albedo in her cooking clothes)
Arto: This is so delicious, Albedo, Grayfia. You really outdid yourself today, you did a really amazing job today, how many of the dishes today were cooked by Albedo, Grayfia? *rubs my face*
Grayfia: A third of it, my Master~ Albedo is really passionate about this cooking stuff.
Arto: I see, I am glad you found something to distract yourself from missing me.
Hearing his words, even if I am hugging him from behind his neck, I know he is smiling, that's the reason why I keep trying, for him, for my Arto Abyssgard.
Albedo: I'm glad you're liking what I did, Master. Grayfia is a great teacher, she taught me everything.
...........
And the day goes on and on, day after day, training, studying, cooking, shopping, and before I know it, 2 weeks have passed, this is the day my Master returns from his work.
Notes:
A/N: To be continued....
Chapter 20: The return
Summary:
The day Arto returns from his work
Chapter Text
Albedo POV
Today is the day, the day my beloved Master returns from his work inside the simulation room. Yesterday, he said everything is almost done and he will come home today, so we are making a hearty meal to greet him home. Throughout 2 weeks of working, Master is clearly thinner since he- doesn't have much time in a day to eat, not to mention only a meal a day. The bags under his eyes are really bad, but according to Rias, it's still much better than the time he built the simulation room because he didn't pull as many all-nighters.
Grayfia: Albedo, have you done making the appetizer? I need some help here.
Albedo: Coming.
Rias: Akeno, Are you ready?
Akeno: Yeah, Arto sure would love the mochis we are making for him, he said he's always wanted to try.
Robin/Nami: We're home, here are the ingredients you're asking for.
Grayfia: Thanks Satan you're back, we are on a pepper-shortage here.
Rias: Now we can start with the red bean paste for the filling.
Everything is going well, everybody is preparing for the returning feast for my Arto in harmony, the family is livelier now that Master is coming home to us, I can finally sleep with him tonight, sleeping with the girls is fun, but I miss that strong, firm body of my Abyssgard. I miss his kisses, his hugs and gentle gestures, those delicious scars as well, I 'm gonna make the most of it tonight, I want my Arto back. As everything is in the final preparation steps, until....
Robin: He's back, girls, he's home.
Everyone just drops everything they are doing and gets inside the teleportation spell, heading to the ORC clubhouse's basement. On the other side of the teleportation, we saw a tired Arto, he is sweating profusely, panting heavily, his clothes are dirty and there are some bruises on his arms and legs. On his hands are the leftover material from his work, looks like he has cleaned everything when he is done. Looking at us, he puts on a smile, like telling us he's fine and we don't have to worry.
Arto: Hello ever....
Before he could say his greeting, we barged at him at the same time and hugged him tightly. We don't care if he is dirty and sweaty, we don't care if our clothes might get filthy, we only care about our man, Arto Abyssgard, he's home.
Arto: Calm down, girls, let me take a bath first, I am really dirty, sweaty and stinky right now.
Girls: NO!
Grayfia: We don't care about that.
Robin: All that matters now is that you're home to us now.
Rias: We miss you so bad, you know?
Akeno: Everything wasn't the same without you.
Albedo: But we made it, we completed our challenge.
Girls: And you returning is our reward, so let us enjoy it.
Arto: Thank you girls for being there for me, it's not that tired while working with my beloved women in my mind, it makes me feel less lonely and more motivated when I was working inside the room, which makes me feel much better and pushes me to work harder to come home to you, my loves. I love you girls so much
Albedo: We love you too, our Darling, it's good to have you back home now, please don't go anywhere in the next few months, okay? You need to make up for us for leaving your lovers for too long.
Arto: Alright, I won't go anywhere in the next few months, if I go, I'll take one or some of you with me, you girls okay with that?
Girls: Yes.
Arto: Alright, now please let go of me, I need a bath, even if you're okay with it, I'm feeling really itchy and hot right now.
We let go of him, only to see our man smile brighter, welcome home, my love. Arto then proceeds to go back to the house via teleportation, before heading in, he turns back to us.
Arto: Rias, Akeno, come with me, we're taking a bath together, I promised you 2 that, yeah? Sorry for not doing it sooner. Are you busy with anything?
Rias and Akeno's faces brighten hearing his offer.
Rias: We still have something to do, but it won't be long.
Akeno: So you head in the tub first, Honey~ We'll be right behind you.
Arto: Alright, but be quick, don't leave me waiting.
After that, Arto teleported back to the house, leaving blushing Rias and Akeno behind.
Akeno: So he still remembered his promise with us, Oh Arto~
Rias: Then what are we waiting for? Let's go home and finish our dessert for him, then we can enjoy the bath with him.
Akeno: He's always wanted to eat Mochi, so how about we bring our "Mochi" for him to have a taste, to give him a teaser for what's coming in the meal?
Rias: He'd love our "Mochi".
They said as they quickly teleport home, leaving us behind
Nami: Well, our man is back.
Grayfia: He'd love to see the meal we prepared for him.
Albedo: I have never had a chance to see him in a teacher role, I wanna see how good he is.
Robin: You'll be amazed, he's better than me, if you like my teaching, you'd love his. You'll know why other students always ask when Arto will return.
Albedo: I'm looking forward to it.
Nami: Everyone, let's head back, we are not done yet, you know?
Robin: Sorry, Arto's return really distracted us.
Nami: Girls in love.
We then get inside the teleportation spell and head home.
Arto POV
Arto: What a bath it is, I need this, a cool refreshing bath after 2 weeks of constant work. The cool water really takes all the tiredness off my shoulder. Radia?
As I thought, my beloved hell singer appeared above my head. The moment she sees me, she immediately flies to my face and uses her wings to hug me, she presses her fluffy body to my face, which is really comfortable, so I let that happen. After a few moments, she let go of me and chirped in happiness.
Arto: Thank you for that fluffy hug, Radia, I miss you too. Can you sing me a melody about reunion?
Radia listened to my order and started to sing, her melody spread across the room, making my body even more relaxed. As I was chilling in the beautiful melody of Radia, the bathroom door slowly opened, revealing 2 of my first lovers, Rias and Akeno in their towels.
Rias: Hiya, Darling~
Akeno: Your beloved women have come to join you in the bath.
Arto: Come on in, you two, are you done with your job?
Rias: We are, thank you for asking, now without further ado....
They then head inside the bathroom, lock the door and remove their towels, before positioning themselves on either of my legs. In response to their action, I wrap my arms around my girls' small waists and pull them closer to me, letting me have a closer look at my beautiful lovers. And I must say, I can never have enough of their elegant faces and their sweet aroma. My hands really know where to land as they rest themselves on Rias and Akeno's smooth, naked stomachs and start to rub them lightly. Seeing me doing this, my girls talk to me in flirty voices.
Akeno: Look how much he likes our bellies, Rias~.
Rias: Indeed, you like to put a little baby in our bellies that much, Arto~? I wouldn't mind if it's you~
Akeno: Indeed, I am always available, come to me anytime when you're ready to start a family~
Arto: I would love to, my dearest, but let's leave that to our future selves, right now, I just want to enjoy your beautiful voices, bodies and fragrances to the fullest.
Rias: I see, then let us help you enjoy our bodies to the fullest, Akeno~
Akeno: Yes, let us tell you what we made today.
Rias and Akeno then kneel to either side of me and out of sudden, they sandwich me in between their breasts. To be honest, I don't mind this, not at all, Rias and Akeno's soft, squishy breasts pressing against my head, no comfort could compare to this. These girls, they are full of surprises, always know how to pleasure me in unexpected ways. But they are a bit too far I see, to fix this, I wrap my arms around their thighs and pull them close to me for my head to be buried deeper into my lovers' chest. Seeing me like that, my lovers are more than happy and wrap their arms around my neck and push their breasts deeper, and hold me in place to enjoy the comfort.
Akeno: Ara ara~ Look at our man go, longing for more comfort from our breasts~Fufufu~ Have as much as you want, my love, you deserve them.
Rias: 2 weeks without your women's comfort really had a toll on you, Darling~? Look how bold you are, pulling us closer for more pleasure. Looks like he likes what we made today.
Because I can't say anything while being buried inside my girls' breasts, I use my hands to make signs to talk to them.
Arto: 'M-O-C-H-I ?'
Akeno: You are so smart, Darling~ We made mochi today, how do you like it?
Arto: *Thumb up*
Rias: I'm so glad you like our "Mochi", let me give you some touch of the dessert you have always wanted to try.
They said as they took my hand and guided them somewhere. After some moments my hand landed on something round, soft and bouncy.
Akeno: Squeeze it, Honey~ That's the "Mochi" samples we brought you today.
Complying to my girls, I start to fondle their "Mochi" with my hands. I increase my strength on Akeno while being gentle with Rias. No matter how strong I squeeze, my hands did earn some moan from my lovers
Rias: Ahhh~Arto~You really like it, don't you? Our "Mochi"? Ahh~ Keep going, your Rias loves your touches Ahhh~~ keep fondling, I love it Ah~....
Akeno: Your hand is Ahh~ so strong, I love it AHHH~ Harder, harder, my love, give me Ah~ your love, I am addicted Ahhhh~ to your touch, my beloved Ahh~...
I keep fondling Rias and Akeno's "Mochi" in there moans of pleasure for 10 minutes straight, due to my girls' desire, nothing will be fed to lust today, I keep enjoying the pleasure of my women's softness, and their sexy voices, I don't mind keep going with it, but I know there's something my girls want more than just these squeezing. So I get out of their spectacular breasts bed and look at the girls who are having questioning looks on their faces.
Rias: What happened, Honey~? Why did you get out, we're having lots of fun.
Akeno: Don't you like our "Mochi" anymore?
Arto: I do, girls, of course I do, I love your delicious "Mochi" but you have done so much for me to feel good, now it's my turn to pay you back. Come here, Rias *pat my lap* I know how much you like doing this from the time I did this with Grayfia and Albedo.
Rias: If you wish, *jumps on my lap* now love me, my Arto~
Arto: Please wait for me, Akeno, I don't want to use a fake version for you, I know how much you hate kissing a fake Arto.
Akeno: Don't worry, your Akeno is a patient woman, she can wait 2 weeks for your love, so another 25 minutes is fine.
Rias: Enough chatting, Arto, show your princess how much you love her.
Arto: At your service, my princess.
Listening to my princess's command, I connect my lips with hers, give her the kiss she has been craving for. It doesn't take us much time to use French kisses, our tongues finally have a chance to see each other again, and like long lost lovers, they wrap themselves around each other, twirling, twisting, tying themselves together. I just found another "Mochi" in her mouth, it's soft and stretchy, like the description I read about "Mochi" on the internet, not just the texture, the taste is excellent as smell, the sweetness of strawberry, combined with her aroma of rose make her more delicious than ever.
In our deep kiss, Rias tried Albedo's trick and started to grind her hips into my laps. I didn't stop her, but encouraged her by getting a handful of her butts with my hands, and squeezing it, which earned a loud moan of Rias in my mouth. I then supported her grinding on my lap, making it faster and stronger as I could hear more erotic moans from Rias in my mouth. It looked like the sound of our flesh colliding really stimulated her.
When everything was happening, Akeno decided to join the fun with a handful of bath lotion as she started to rub it all over Rias's back like what happened at the beach. Rias is clearly surprised by her Queen's action as her moan gets louder, longer and sexier when her body is stimulated all over. 5, 10, 20, 25 minutes passed, Rias and I are still maintaining our kiss, her back is twitching due to the lotioning from Akeno, her hips are smashing stronger than ever against my belly with my help. After a final grind, Rias let go of me and screamed loudly, my lower body is wet again. Rias then looked at me with loving eyes.
Rias: That's bloody amazing, Albedo was right, this is indeed really good in removing stress. Arto, you made me a happy woman, I'm glad~
Akeno: Look how strong is his grip, he left red marks of his hands on your butts, it must have felt great, Rias?
Rias: It's indeed really satisfying, but very tiring when you're done. I might need you to bridal carry me downstairs after this.
After settling Rias down on my left, Akeno quickly took her place on my lap and looked at me with heart-shaped pupil eyes.
Arto: Did you have to wait long, my dear~?
Akeno: But it worths the wait, now, show me your strength, love~
Then our lips connected, quickly blended into each other, Akeno's lips is really soft, and delicious, it's hard to describe with word how good I am feeling right now, I hug her her body closer to myself, keep her soft yet well-toned body close to me, I have been craving such skin contact for 2 weeks inside the simulation room.
Our kiss gets more passionate when our tongues are used, we invade each other's mouth, taste the most of one another's saliva, we blend deeper and deeper into the kiss, not wanting to let go. Seeing her body is close enough to me, I started to grab her "Mochi" and started to fondle them with my hand. But this is Akeno, she likes it rough, so I squeeze it harder and harder, make sure to leave my mark on her body. Her reaction is really interesting as well, her moan can be heard clearly in my mouth.
Akeno: Harder~Harder~Harder~Love~me~Harder~Love~me~Rougher~
Hearing her request, I tighten my grip, but not too much not to make her feel too much pain. Her squishy yet firm "Mochi" really makes me proud, she has been practicing really hard to achieve this state. To reward her, I decided to create some hands behind her back. My summoned hands then got the bathing lotion and started to rub all over her back and legs while still maintaining the rough fondling with my main hands, this earns a lot of moans from my lover.
After a few minutes, I can see her hips twitching, like it's trying to get out of my grasp. Seeing her like this, I loosen my grip and let her hips move freely. And like my other girls, her hips started to grind on my laps, but different from other girls, Akeno grinds were slower but harder, she wanted to feel the most out of a grind. Deciding to help her, I push her hips lower, closer to my laps as she keeps on her sexy action. As the time goes on, she moves faster and faster, still maintaining the hard grind, her moans get louder and louder, our kiss gets deeper and deeper. And with a final grind, we separated, Akeno rocks her head back as she screamed and wet my lap. After she's done, her body twitches as she pants heavily and she gets closer to my face with a thirsty look.
Akeno: I love it, Arto~ Love it so much, the rubbing, the squeezing, the kissing, I love you so much my Arto~, you satisfy your woman really well~.
Arto: Thank you, Akeno for your compliment.
Akeno: I am looking forward to more pleasure in the future, Darling~ Now let us wash ourselves before having dinner, I bet everyone is waiting.
The girls then wash their bodies, still don't forget to flex their beautiful figures to me. 10 minutes passed and we were done, we then headed downstairs to see everyone was waiting for us.
Robin: I am surprised, only 20 minutes, I thought it would be longer.
Grayfia: Indeed, I even put preserving spells on the food the moment I saw Rias and Akeno head upstairs.
Albedo: Did you just take a shower and get out? You don't need to worry about us, we can wait.
Nami: Yes, you can do whatever you want, I know how much you miss them, Arto.
Rias: What are you talking about? We were there for 1 hour at least.
Akeno: We had our passionate kisses with Arto, and each of us spent 25 sexy minutes with our man.
Arto: And that, girls, is time dilation.
Rias: You put it in the bathroom?
Arto: Yes, I turned on the function when I saw you two getting in, the act of locking the door set it into motion, since I know we'll be in there very long and I don't want others to wait.
Nami: That's quite handy, then we don't have to wait for each other to take a bath.
Arto: Each of you has a bathroom in your room and you never use it, you are always bathing together, so this time dilation function will help you girls have more time together in the bath.
Albedo: And with you as well, now that you made us love bathing with you, Master.
Grayfia: I am ready to serve you in the bath anytime you want, just call me and I'll use my body to provide you the best service.
Robin: Girls, PRIVACY.
Arto: That's right, I don't mind taking a bath or a shower with you, but I need my private time too, so only get in when you have my permission, alright?
Girls: Yes, Arto.
Arto: Alright, let's dig in, I'm starving.
And the meal begins....
Arto: This is soooo gooood~ I love every dish here, I love you so much, my girls.
Grayfia: Thank you for your compliment, Master~
Albedo: We tried so hard to make you happy, and your smile is our greatest reward.
Robin: The girls didn't let the longing for you hold them back, they try harder to amaze you when you return.
Arto: I guess I'll gotta go on more trips to make you girls try harder.
Nami: NOPE! NOPE! You're not going anywhere, we want you by our side.
Arto: I'm kidding, I know my importance in your eyes, I won't go anywhere in the near future.
After the meal comes the dessert, the mochis.
Rias: How do you like the Mochis, Arto~?
Akeno: You've been wanting to try it~
Arto: This is really delicious, soft and stretchy, sweet and fragrance, but I like your "Mochi" more.
Rias: We'll feed you our "Mochi" anytime, dear~
Akeno: All you need is ask~
Grayfia: So you like Mochi, Master, I'll keep that in mind.
Albedo: Lucky for Master, there are lots of "Mochi" available, he can eat anytime he wants.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Arto reading a stack of paper)
Albedo POV
Arto is now doing the dishes with Robin and Nami. He insisted that I and Grayfia should rest. Now I am sitting with Rias and Akeno in the living room, looking at their satisfied faces. I know they had a sweet time with Master Arto.
Albedo: Rias~ How was it?
Rias: Utterly satisfying, I grinded my hips so hard against his body, the scars on his thighs really gave me so much pleasure, his grip was strong but gentle, enough to make me feel good but not enough to make me feel pain, he knows what he's doing with his hands.
Akeno: Gotta mind his tongue as well, he shows dominance over all of us when we kiss him, I love it when our tongues twirl around each other. His love for his women is massive, he knows exactly how to treat us, his strong and rough grip on my body is really pleasurable. He makes me want to stick to him all the time.
Grayfia: Indeed, I'm glad Master can handle us all with care and love, I don't feel left out even if he has many women by his side, he loves me a lot, loves us a lot, I think I have chosen the right man, even if he get more women in the future, I know I won't be alone in this family when he's here.
Albedo: Even if he's not here with us, we have each other. 2 weeks of his absence really opened my eyes about his women, his harem. Arto built a wonderful harem consisting of spectacular women: everyone is smart and beautiful, helpful, faithful with very little competition for Master Arto's love. Every problem was resolved publicly among everyone, from adding a woman to helping each other in adapting to the new environment. I am lucky that Master bought me but not that Riser Phenex, or else I don't know where I am right now.
Nami: Indeed, Arto has built a good structure for his harem based on truth and compassion, not a woman is left out, we all have a role to play in this family and he loves us all, I am happy that all his women can live together in peace and harmony.
Robin: But most importantly, Arto has a big heart, he has enough space for all his women. Not only that, we don't just receive love from Arto, we share love among us, learn from each other, share with each other, which make the harem stronger and reduce conflict between us to the lowest.
Arto: I see, I'm glad you girls can find your position in this family. It's heartwarming to see you girls soothing and supporting each other not just in my absence but even when I am around as well. I must say, I am lucky to have the greatest harem I could ever ask for. I love you all, my women.
Robin: So Nami?
Nami: Not yet, Robin, I still need some time to think about my relationship, I've never been in a romantic relationship before.
Rias: Then take your time, we'll respect any path you choose.
Akeno: Just know that we are right behind you, to support you anyway we can.
Grayfia: This house is always open for you.
Albedo: Master will always welcome you with open arms.
Robin: So fear not, whoever hurt you, we'll make them pay.
Nami: Thank you girls, I really appreciate your effort. And believe me, I won't leave the family that I worked so hard to find of mine, I love you all.
Arto POV
And the night went on in harmony and joy until near bedtime, everyone retreated to their respective rooms to do some mind their own work and prepare themselves for their sleep in my room. I walk downstairs to see Robin is reading a book in the living room, I slowly approach her from behind and give her a hug around her neck.
Arto: You're waiting for it, right?
Robin: Come here and sit down, my Darling~ Your favorite has waited long enough.
I listened to her words and sat down on the sofa, and she positioned herself on my lap, she looked at me with loving eyes as her face got closer to me.
Robin: Why do you have to save your favorite for last? Seeing the girls having fun with you, I feel kind of longing and desired, you know?
Arto: And I'll make sure this will be worth your wait.
Robin: We'll see.
She said as she removed our clothes using magic, we are now both naked with nothing on our body. I take the initiation and wrap my arms around her waist and pull her closer to me, pull her chest closer to my face, to the point I am inside her chest. Her fragrance is one of a kind, even without any perfume, her body is really soft and comfortable. Since she doesn't work out as much as other girls, her body has less muscle but much softer, incredible to touch
Arto: I love you, my Robin~
Robin: I love you too, my Arto~
We stay like that for a while, just enjoying each other's company in silence and love, just me and her, no one else. After a while, she asks
Robin: So you like it slow huh, my love?
Arto: Yeah, I gotta move fast back then so that other girls don't have to wait, but now, I wanna take it slow, just enjoying my favorite lover by my side.
Robin: Then take your time, we have a whole night ahead of us.
As we are enjoying ourselves, a cold breeze blows on my Robin's beautiful naked back, making her shiver.
Arto: You look kinda cold there, my love. How about we crank up the heat a little?
Robin: Gladly. A little at a time
Then we slowly get in a loving kiss, we take it slow, make the most of the delicious taste we sense on each other's lips. Her lips is one of a kind, soft and sweet, I love it, every moment of our kiss
Robin: Hmm...ahh...
It goes on and on, our connection, no disturbance, no barrier, just me and her, my favorite, my ideal woman, my fetish, my Nico Robin. After 20 minutes, we let go to get some breath before continuing, this is the time I could see her beautiful blushing face, so gorgeous, so elegant, so....Robin. So only for her, I might let it be seen.
Robin POV
When our lips separated, I saw my Arto, he's blushing, for the first time in our relationship, I got to see him blush. And he show it to me, his favorite woman
Robin: So you can blush? But why me?
Arto: I can, and because you are my favorite woman, you get some special treatment. Other girls will see this face eventually, but I want YOU to be the first to see this face of mine.
Robin: Then you should blush more, my dear, you look really handsome while doing so.
Arto: I'll keep that in mind. Now, shall we?
Robin: We shall.
We then get into our kiss again, this time, deeper and more passionate, I get to taste his sweet tongue again. The meeting of the tongues went slowly, they gently touched, wrapped around each other at a low pace. We both take our time to taste the other to the fullest, my hands run all over his back feel his scarred skin, I run my fingers along all his scar from the long one to the short one to the deep one, each scar gave me an image about what cause it to him: a thrust of a spear, a slash of a sword, a claws of beasts,... But something that terrifies me the most is the mark that has the shape of a small cube that digs deep in his skin behind his head, this is what remains of the device his creator uses to shock him with high voltage electricity, to subdue my man, to keep on torturing him.
I saw it all the pain of the man I love, the life shrouded in wars and torture, a broken mind, a tormented soul. But in all of those suffering, his will shines bright, the brilliant blue flame, 'Will of the Abyssgard'. And it took him here, to us, for him to enjoy the life he deserves, where there are people that truly care about him, cherish him and love him with all their hearts, including me, Nico Robin, his lover, his Bishop, his favorite woman. I don't know how long it has passed, hours? But we are still here, kissing, hugging, loving each other, we kind of don't want to let go as the hug between us gets tighter and tighter, our bodies get closer and closer.
And when we are close enough, Arto's hands start to work, they rub my back, up and down, just like what happened at the beach, his hands work all over my back skillfully, this makes my body aroused by his touches. The more he does that, the hotter my body feels, to the point I started to pleasurably moan in his mouth. Arto seems to realize that so he started to perform some massaging skills on my back which make me more stimulated by how pleasurable he's making me feel now. As the massaging went on, my body decided to take action and move, my hips started to move out of instinct to respond to the pleasure from my man, now I know what happened to Grayfia and Albedo. My hips started to move back and forth on Arto's thigh. His scarred thighs are a perfect rough surface for my hips to move on, the more his scars rub against my inner thigh, the more aroused I feel, this is so good, I want more.
Out of nowhere, I feel his hands lift up from my back before continuing again, but this pair of hands is fake, created by Arto. I wonder what he wants to do, but this pair of hands is not as pleasurable. His intention is revealed when his real pair of hands grab a handful of my buttocks. His grip tightened as I felt the pleasure Rias was talking about, not too gentle but not too rough, this is pure pleasure. He took his action further when he pushed my hips lower, increasing the contact between his rough thighs and my hips while it's still moving back and forth. So he knows I want more of this stimulation and helps me get more pleasure. My thighs is still moving with a slow pace, give me a chance to feel every scar rub against my inner thighs, and ass, combined with his amazing grip gives me unparalleled pleasure, now I know why Grayfia is addicted to him, not only he's a wonderful man in terms of personality, strength and intelligence, he even knows how to pleasure his woman, this man is perfect.
My pleasure keeps increasing as he continues his grip, rub and kiss, his tongue is wreaking havoc in my mouth, his fake pair of hands is keeping on massaging my back while his real hands are fondling my ass. Facing this much stimulation, I couldn't do anything but maintain the French kiss with him, tighten my wrap around his neck and moan louder in his mouth. I can't control my lower body anymore as it's now pinned down to his rough, manly thighs and my hips are moving ferociously on his lap, rubbing itself against his scars. I want more, I don't want it to stop, I want to keep going with this. Each time I feel my climax comes to me, I try to suppress it, keep it in check to feel more pleasure from my man.
But my effort was proven to me futile when my naughty hips starts to move faster while still maintain a close contact with Arto's lap, the rubbing is faster, stronger, arouser, better,....Even worse, my hips is supported by Arto's arms when it help my hips move along his thigh while still keep the stimulating fondling. The pleasure is building up really fast inside me, I can't control it, I just let it grow with tremendous speed, but I don't want to stop, I want more of his pleasure, but my body doesn't allow me to as it moves faster, rubbing harder. My moans get louder and louder as my hips collide with his stomach, making a erotic sound that stimulates my ears. That sound combined with the slimey sound of our kiss knocks me to my knees in the effort to maintain this beautiful pleasure from my man. More and more pleasure comes to bring my climax closer, even though I want to keep it for some more time but this is the end, I'll embrace this...my first orgasm, caused by my beloved man, Arto Abyssgard and the spectacular pleasure he brought me. I am officially addicted to him.
3rd POV
Can't hold it any longer, Robin separates herself from Arto's kiss and lets out a loud scream of pleasure, Arto's lap is once again watered by his woman. After that she leans back into her lover's embrace, panting in exhaustion.
Arto: How was it, my love?
Robin: The best ever~, you really know how to pleasure your woman, I am flattered.
Arto: Thank you for loving my service, I am always available when you need to relieve your stress.
Robin: I'll keep that in mind, I am lucky to have a perfect man like you as my lover.
Arto: I am lucky to have a perfect woman like you as my lover.
Robin: Guess we're both lucky finding each other, fate has indeed given us what we need, which is kind of surprising.
Arto: Indeed, I love you Robin~
Robin: I love you too, Arto~
Arto: Look at the time, we've been here 1.5 hours.
Robin: Yeah, that deep kiss and rubbing lasted 1 hour.
Arto: Do you need a shower?
Robin: Yes, please~
Arto: Then let me carry you, my future bride~
Robin: I was about to ask you that, my legs is kinda weak after all that~
Arto then carried his lover upstairs to her room for her to take a shower before sleeping in his room.
Arto: Need me to pick you up to come to my room?
Robin: When I'm done, I'll let you know.
Arto: Goodbye for now, love~ *smooch*
Robin: *smooch* remember to come pick me up, alright?
Arto then come back to his room
Arto: *Knock knock*
Grayfia: Master~, you have returned, how was it?
Arto: It was spectacular, everything was wonderful, she was lovely.
Grayfia: I'm glad Robin is getting her sweet time with you like us, she has done so much for this family after all, now please come in, we have prepared the bed for you.
I came into my room with Grayfia behind me to see the girls are enjoying themselves in their nightgowns: Rias, Nami are hanging out with each other, and Akeno is kissing Albedo. Seeing me, they greet me with smiles on their faces.
Rias: Welcome back Arto~ You and Robin really had your amazing time together huh?
Grayfia: How did she manage to hold such pleasure for an hour? I am really curious~
Nami: Hello Arto, can I sleep here tonight?
Arto: You don't need my permission to sleep here, you can come anytime.
Nami: Thanks, now, Rias, about our next shopping......
Rias: Let's see, we need to buy.....
Akeno: Welcome home, darling~ Wanna join us?
Albedo: He wouldn't, he has just had a 1 and a half sweet hour with his favorite woman, he needs some rest before getting back into pleasuring his woman. In the meantime, you can use me instead.
Akeno: Thanks Albedo, now if you excuse me.
She said as they kept on kissing. Arto positions himself on the bed with Grayfia in his embrace.
Grayfia: What do you want to do while waiting for Robin, Master~?
Arto: This.
He said as he summoned a book as they started to read together.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by books stacking)
Arto's ears perk up hearing the signal from his Robin. He teleports from his room to pick her up. After a few moments, Arto came back bridal carrying a Robin in her nightgown.
Grayfia: So the man and his favorite woman have arrived, making way for the King and his Queen.
Robin: Thank you, Grayfia. Now King Arto~, settle your Queen down so that we can sleep.
Arto: As you command, my Queen~
Arto then gets on the bed with Robin on his right, Grayfia takes the chance and takes the position on Arto's left for herself.
Albedo: You're fast, Grayfia, I was about to take that spot.
Grayfia: You can have this place tomorrow. Tonight, Arto will have both of his Queens to be by his side.
Akeno: Don't be sad, Albedo, you have me, remember?
Albedo: Thank you, my beloved Akeno~
Rias: Guess we're sleeping here Nami.
Nami: Anywhere is fine, I just want to be with everyone here.
Everyone then position themselves of the bed: Arto in the middle with Grayfia and Robin on his sides, laying their head on his shoulder, Akeno and Nami are hugging Albedo and Rias who will have his arms for themselves,
Robin: Now that you're done with the work, what is the next plan?
Arto: I'll have a week for testing until presenting it to my investor, that's Rias and Sona's family.
Grayfia: I see, can we help with that?
Arto: Yes, you can, I'll run some tests in the room with you.
Rias: So this means we'll spend less time training, yes?
Arto: You're right, with this time dilation function, the time for training will be reduced.
Akeno: And the time for healing will increase.
Albedo: Which means we can train everyday in the room.
Nami: This will help us get stronger faster.
Arto: Precisely, but there is one problem.
Robin: Aging.
Arto: That's it, aging, with devils, everything will be fine, a few years is nothing compared to their life span which is about a few hundred thousand years. But humans like me, Robin and Nami are different. Using the room too much will make us older, which means we'll die faster.
Nami: So which means we can't train as much as them, yes?
Arto: Yes, but I've had the solution for this, it's called 'Time Pivot', it's a suit that will maintain our age inside the simulation room when using the time dilation function. Your strength will increase but your age will remain the same. I'll get into details tomorrow, now, let us sleep.
Girls: Good night, and welcome home, Arto.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto putting on a skin tight suit)
Arto POV
One week after the function is completed and set into motion through lots of tests, I am sure the room is functioning okay no matter the situation. Today is the day I can meet my little Millicas again, I don't know how much stronger he has grown under Yelena's instruction.
Robin: Good job, Rias, Sona, Akeno, Tsubaki. You did really well with the information you have in hand, the strategy was finesse, your striking straight into the enemy's weak spot made them fall apart quickly, good job, but there are things we can fix on the logistic side, I'll give you the detailed feedback about it.
Girls: Thank you, Miss Robin.
Robin: Good, now to the rest, you did well holding yourselves, collecting information and advancing, especially Kiba and Tomoe, you two did well finding that secret tunnel, it really helped the team advance through the enemy's defense.
Tomoe: Hehehe~ Thank you miss Robin, guess we did our best.
Kiba: The illusion spell was well-disguised but we found it anyway thanks to your lesson, Miss Robin.
Robin: Now, that's all for today, go get yourselves some rest, we are having guests today.
Sona: Who is it, Miss Robin?
Door: *Knock knock*
Arto: Looks like they are here.
I came upstairs to greet our guests, my investors, Rias and Sona's family, but they are not alone. Following them are a lot of devils who are carrying boxes and boxes that are full of papers with them.
Zeoticus: Hello Arto, we have come to test out your new function for the simulation room.
Sora: We have brought our paperwork for the day to see how your room will help us.
Sirzechs: Indeed, I am eager to spend more time with my wife and son so I have brought everything I need to do for the day.
Serafall: *hugs* I want to spend more time with my little Sona so I'll make sure to complete all the work today.
Millicas: UNCLE!!!!
My little nephew jumps straight into my arms with a smile on his face.
Arto: Good to see you again, Millicas.
Millicas: I came for training as well, I will train with Mommy in the simulation room so that I can spend time playing with Daddy afterward.
Yelena: He's so excited to see you, Arto, he has improved a lot in the past few weeks, you'll be amazed.
Arto: I would love to see his improvement. Now without further ado, let's get to work.
We then head down the basement for everyone to start working.
Rias: Good day to you, mother, father. I thought my paperwork was bad.
Zeoticus: You don't know.
Venelana: Yes, your dad's back is aging faster than his face.
Millicas: Aunty!!
Rias: Millicas, good to see you again, look how much you have grown, I am so proud.
Millicas: Thank you, Aunty.
Serafall: My little Sona *hugs* I miss you so much. I'll make sure to complete my work so we can spend some time together.
Sona: I miss you too, sister. Good day to you, mother, father. You sure have lots of work to do.
Sora: Yes, and it's taking too much of my time.
Sena: Indeed, we are having a family outing after this.
Sirzechs: Arto, tell us how things work here.
Arto: Alright, I will teleport you to a new section of the room, the 'Office', it will be divided into many rooms, each is a 1:1 replicant of the office you are familiar with, you will work there with the time dilating rate at about 1 hour outside = 5 hours inside. Whenever you have a meeting or call outside, the function will be disabled. The section will have a vending machine, a self-serve cantine, coffee makers, and a bedroom for each of you to sleep before getting back to work.
Zeoticus: I see, then let's not waste anymore time, see you later, my love~.
Venelana: I'll wait for your return.
Sirzechs: I'll complete my work in no time, Millicas, Yelena, wait for me.
Millicas: Be quick Daddy, I want to spend time with you and Mommy.
Sora: I'm heading in, wish me good luck, Sena dear~
Sena: I will cheer for you as hard as I can, Honey~
Serafall: I'll see you later, my little Sona.
Sona: I'll see you later very soon, sister.
They then head inside the room with lots of papers with them. After the door is closed, Millicas runs to me.
Millicas: Uncle, Uncle, where will I train?
Arto: Here, this section is called the 'Sandbox', you'll train here with your mother, the time dilation will not be used on this section. You can train and study here while waiting for your Daddy to finish his job.
Millicas: Okay, I love you Uncle. Mommy, let's go!
Yelena: Excited, aren't you? We're heading in now.
Yelena and Millicas then head inside the 'Sandbox', leaving Lady Venelana and Lady Sena in the basement of the club house.
Venelana: So what do we do in the meantime?
Nami: Mommy Venelana!!
Nami yells as she jumps right into Lady Venelana's arms.
Nami: I miss you so much, Mommy!
Venelana: I miss you too, my sweet Nami, how are you doing?
Nami: I am doing really well, I am Arto's finance manager right now.
Venelana: I see, so I have another smart daughter, I am so glad.
Grayfia: Good day to you, Lady Venelana, Lady Sena.
Sena: So you live here now, Grayfia?
Grayfia: I am, my Lady. I am Master Arto's personal maid and lover.
Sena: So Arto has gotten another woman for himself.
Grayfia: In a matter of fact, 2 women, my Lady.
Sena: That Succubus too, I assumed?
Albedo: Yes, my Lady, I, Albedo, Master Arto's personal Succubus has returned to his side to be his faithful wife.
Venelana: Rias, with so many women in Arto's harem, do you feel lonely?
Rias: I absolutely don't, mother. He loves me and all his women very much, he makes sure none of us feels left out. And we don't just receive love from Arto, we women of his love each other a lot as well, that's why this harem never has any conflict, everything is resolved at the earliest stages among ourselves with truth and compassion.
Venelana: I see, I am glad you are happy with your man. You really have built a good harem, Arto. I'm happy that all the girls are having a good spot in your heart..
Sena: Sona, how is your relationship with Arto going?
Sona: It's very well mother, we hang out a lot, share a lot of kisses whenever I come to his house for lessons. So even though I don't live with him, I don't feel lonely in this harem.
Sena: I see, so now everyone is here, how about a womanly date? Just us women.
Sona: Hanging with mother? Count me in.
Robin: Very interesting, I'm in.
Tsubaki: How could I stay out of this?
Nami: Me too. I'm taking this little cat Koneko with me as well.
Koneko: Sweets~
Albedo: I'd really love to know these 2 fair ladies of Gremory and Sitri.
Grayfia: I'm coming as well, since I don't want to disturb my sister's training with Millicas.
Rias: How could I miss a chance to go out with my mother? Akeno?
Akeno: I'd like to go as well, I want to know more about Lady Venelana and Lady Sena as a person.
Robin: Sorry, my love, it seems you can't come with us this time.
Arto: It's alright, I must stay to monitor the room, this first official run needs my attention, so you go have fun.
Rias: *smooch* See you later, Honey~
Akeno: *smooch* We'll make it up for you in bed tonight...
Albedo: ...with our bodies~Fufufu~ *smooch*
Nami: I've always wanted to have a womanly hang out with Mommy.
Grayfia: *smooch* We'll get something for you on our way home, see you soon, Master~
Venelana: Now, where should we go first?
Girls: Shopping mall.
Sena: That's our destination.
Then the ladies of the house go on their together date, leaving me and Kiba home.
Kiba: Do you need any help, Arto?
Arto: Nah, go get yourself some rest, you have done enough today.
Kiba: Thanks Arto, see you tomorrow
Kiba then teleports out of the clubhouse, now there's only me left.
Arto: Let's see....
Issei POV
Today is another day in my summer vacation, me and my friends are in the mall for some arcade games. I still don't know who the owner of that mansion is, so I tried to peek into his house but to no avail. I even tried to talk to his maid to meet him but she said she was too busy.
Flashback
Issei: *Ding ding*
Grayfia: Good morning, sir, how may I assist you today?
Issei: *thought* Holy hell she's beautiful, look at that juicy milk jug.
Issei: Hi, can I meet your Master? I want to ask him something.
Grayfia: May I have your name, sir? I don't recall my Master having any appointment today.
Issei: N....no, there isn't any appointment, I just want to ask your Master a few questions.
Grayfia: Is it anything urgent?
Issei: No, just some friendly greeting since I see that he has just come to this town.
Grayfia: I see, but my Master is really busy right now, you may come back in 2-3 weeks if you really want to meet him.
Issei: I see, then goodbye, I'll be on my way.
Grayfia: Good day to you, sir, have a safe trip.
End of flashback
Busy having s*x I dare day. But damn, that maid was beautiful. I bet she is a woman in that man's harem, thinking about her big breasts makes my mind go wild.
Motohama: You said you know a harem owner in this town?
Matsuda: Who is it?
Issei: He is the owner of the mansion that appeared here 3 months ago.
Motohama: I see, that mansion is really mysterious, the owner seems to never get out of their house.
Issei: Why would he want to get out when he can spend the whole day having s*x with busty women in his harem?
Matsuda: How are you so sure he has a harem?
Issei: I overheard a conversation between his 2 new employees when I was going to buy some DVDs for us to watch, a maid and a secretary. The most important thing is that they are both really beautiful with huge breasts. They said that man has 'lots of beautiful women by his side'
Motohama: Do you have any image of them?
Issei: I only have the image of the maid, the person who gets out of the mansion the most, here.
Matsuda: Holy hell, she's beautiful. Look at that body.
Motohama: 97-58-91, very impressive, damn I got a boner seeing this.
Matsuda: And you said there are more women like this in his harem?
Issei: Yes, considering this maid and his new secretary, we know that man has keen eyes in choosing women. Not only that, that man can attract gorgeous women his way.
Motohama: Then that will raise even more questions about the owner of that mansion.
Matsuda: Now I really want to know that man.
As our minds are wandering in question about the mansion's owner, the area around us suddenly went silent, which surprises us since today is the weekend so the mall is really crowded with people. We soon realize why people went silent, it's because of a group of women walking inside the mall, the group consist of the most beautiful women in this town: Rias Gremory, Akeno Himejima, Koneko Toujou, Souna Shotori, Tsubaki Shinra, Miss Nico Robin, Nami, the maid Grayfia, the secretary Albedo, and two new beautiful ladies I don't know.
One woman with huge breasts and brown hair, her face looks exactly like Rias-senpai so I bet that's her sister from out of town.
Motohama: Oh my god, her breasts is huge, even bigger than Akeno-senpai, 108-60-90
Issei: Said what? 108, that's the biggest I have ever seen, I wish she is still single, I want her in my harem.
The second woman has beautiful black hair. I don't know how large her breasts are since she is wearing a kimono, but I bet her bust is huge as well.
Motohama: Is that the maid you were talking to?
Matsuda: She looks even more voluptuous than in the image.
Motohama: Miss Robin, Nami-senpai, Rias-senpai, Akeno-senpai, Souna-senpai, Tsubaki-senpai are all here.
Issei: See? The busty, black-haired woman with a horn-like headdress is the secretary I was talking about.
Motohama: 94-59-88, Goodness, most of the women here have huge breasts. Tsubaki-senpai 88 bust is kind of average compared to these women.
Issei: I have never seen so many huge milk jugs in one place like this, this is indeed a sight to see and burn into our mind. I want them all in my harem, oh god please help me get all of these busty women to be mine.
The women then head into the female clothes store, all the eyes follow their beauty, to the point the traffic in the mall is jammed and I can hear voices here and there of women yelling and the sound of men being beaten by their partners for looking at other women, in this case, a group of busty, gorgeous women.
Issei: Hey, if that maid and secretary are coming with them, which means this might be related to the owner of that mansion.
Matsuda: So you are suggesting we follow them?
Motohama: Yes, they will have to return to the mansion eventually, this might help us know who lives in that mansion.
Issei: Alright, that's what we're doing, but we need to be careful, Nami is with them, and I don't want another beating like last time.
Matsuda: We need to go full stealth mode in this mission.
Motohama: Now we need to wait for them to come out of the clothes store and the operation will be set into motion.
After an hour of waiting, the women finally come out of the store with lots of bags with them, looks like they have bought lots of clothes, now they are heading to all other stores in the mall for their date, we follow them but still maintain our distance, try not to be notice by the women, this is also the chance to witness their glorious ass, they are utterly juicy and I just want to touch and fondle them, look at them swaying slightly from side to side make our mind go crazy.
Matsuda: *whisper* So many juicy, beautiful cakes, just imagining touching them makes me orgasm.
Motohama: *whisper* I am trying so hard to hold my saliva, those ass looks so delicious, I want to dig in right away.
They then arrive at a cafe, and occupy 3 tables to sit. We take the table near them to listen to what they say
Brown-haired woman: What do you want to drink, girls? My treat.
Black-haired woman in Kimono: I'll take....
Each of the women takes a drink of their own, except Koneko Toujou, she orders lots of sweet treats, especially chocolate, and the woman says nothing about it and happily pays for them all.
Matsuda: *whisper* So she isn't just beautiful, busty, but insanely rich as well.
Issei: *whisper* Yeah, a fitting choice to be my sugar mommy.
Motohama: *whisper* Like you can be her sugar baby, if she wants to find one, a pretty boy like Kiba would be her choice.
Matsuda: *whisper* You'll have a long line to wait until you can get your turn to be her sugar baby dude.
After the orders are brought to their table, the conversation begins
Robin: So, how was your day, Lady Venelana, Lady Sena?
Venelana: I had lots of fun, it's rare to spend time with Rias here considering how busy I am, but this is indeed a new experience.
Sena: It's a great experience going around this town, it's beautiful and peaceful, just the way I like it. And this is also a rare time I can hangout with Sona, I must say, it's really fun.
Motohama: So the brown haired woman is Venelana and she's Rias-senpai's sister
Matsuda: The black haired one in the kimono is Sena and she's Sona-senpai's sister.
Venelana: I have never had a proper meeting with you, Albedo, can you introduce yourself to me?
Albedo: Yes, Lady Venelana, I am Albedo, Master's secretary. I have just been recruited by him a few weeks ago, but due to some family matters, I could only come to officially take my job and support my Master from 3 weeks ago.
Venelana: I see, my boy indeed has keen eyes in choosing women, you are utterly beautiful, Albedo.
Albedo: Thank you for your compliment, Lady Venelana, you are a gorgeous woman as well, your beauty really took me by surprise when I first saw you.
Akeno: Another reason that he chose Albedo for this job is not just because of her ability and knowledge, he also has a strong affinity for women with black hair.
Sena: Ohh~ Interesting, that man has black hair fetish, so I don't need to worry about Sona's happiness, since she meets all the criteria of an ideal woman for him.
Issei: WHAT!? Sona-senpai is in his harem?
Venelana: This is the first time hearing about that fetish of his, where does it come from?
Robin: From his first love, the woman he loved with all his heart but couldn't confess to because of sensitive matters.
Sena: I see, he indeed has a complicated life huh? But I'm happy he found himself a loving family.
Venelana: What about you, Nami? You said you are his finance manager?
Nami: Yes, I am. He asked me about it 3 weeks ago and since his offer is really good, I immediately took the role and started to work on making his financial plan.
Matsuda: *whisper* what the...!? Financial manager? At this age? For that insanely rich man?
Motohama: *whisper* Damn, I didn't know she was that talented, no wonder she has a perfect score in every math test.
Issei: *whisper* C'mon guys, she is a student, she couldn't be that good, he only did that to have his way with Nami whenever he wants, look at her body, which man doesn't want her?
And the conversation goes on for 1 more hour, but the only thing we don't know is the name of the mansion owner, it seems they refrain from mentioning his name, indicating this is a powerful or influential individual. The ladies then stood up from their seats and proceeded to get out of the mall, this is our chance to follow them.
Rias: Why did you have a cake there with you, Grayfia?
Grayfia: I promised Master I would buy him something on the way home, he has to stay back all by himself while we go on this date.
Akeno: We'll make it up for him when we're home.
Venelana: Where should we go next?
Robin: I know a really good spa near here, we can head there for some relaxation. And not to worry, all the employees are women.
Albedo: That's better, I'm tired of being eyed by those lustful eyes that are not Master's.
Sona: Then let's go, we have 2 busy ladies that really need relaxation here.
The women then go to the spa for some relaxation. And from the look of it, this spa is luxurious, and we can't afford to get in there even though all the employees are women and I really want them to massage my body.
Matsuda: Well, we'll have to wait again.
Motohama: It looks so expensive, no wonder they choose this place, those insanely rich women.
Issei: Then when I get them in my harem, I don't have to work anymore and I can enjoy my luxurious life with sexy, rich women as my wives. Every day will be filled with pleasure, delicacies and breasts. My dream life.
Another 2 hours pass in our waiting and anticipation, for the women to come out of the spa. Finally they came out of the spa.
Sena: Would you look at the time? It's time to head home.
Venelana: It seems like the men have done their job, let's go home, girls.
This is the moment we are waiting for, the mansion owner's revelation. We follow the women to the mansion. But while we are on our way.
Hamuda: What are you doing, perverts?
Shit, Hamuda, why is he here? At the right moment, we were about to know.
Issei: Nothing, senpai, nothing at all.
Motohama: We are just walking around town.
Matsuda: Yeah, there's nothing about it.
Hamuda: Then why are you being sneaky like that? Are you planning something perverted!?
Issei: No, no, nothing perverted, we're just....just....went out without telling our parents.
Hamuda: I see, then have fun sneaking, if I know you do anything stupid, you're dead.
Then Hamuda proceeds to go on his way again, leaving us panting in relief.
Motohama: Whew, that was close.
Matsuda: Seeing that guy make my heart almost jump out of my chest.
But when we get back to see the women, they are nowhere to be found.
Issei: We've lost them.
Matsuda: Then what do we do?
Issei: Head to the mansion of course.
3rd POV
Flashback
Robin: They think we don't know they are sneaking on us.
Sona: Those perverts.
Albedo: I'll chop them into pieces, don't stop me, Robin, they dare stalk Master's women and family like that.
Nami: Hold your horses, Albedo. Let me make a call....*click*....Hamuda-senpai....Is that you?....Yes, it's me, Nami....it's the perverts again....don't beat them, they are just stalking us and I don't want you to be in trouble....Yes, yes, I'll send you the location, just distract them for us to get away....be as normal as possible....Thank you Hamuda-senpai....*clicks* that should do it.
Rias: This service is quite handy
Nami: Arto gave me Hamuda-senpai's numbers whenever those perverts disturb me. Plus, this service is free.
Akeno: Just from one encounter, Arto gave this town a pervert annihilator, a passionate pervert annihilator, as expected from my Arto~
Grayfia: He really lives up to his name as the leader of Abyssgard Legion, always knows how to put a person's strong points to use.
Venelana: He trained a thug to be an anti-pervert measure?
Sena: As expected from my son in law.
Tsubaki: Not just Hamuda, his whole gang.
Rias: But Arto didn't even train them, he just showed them the way, they then happily went on the path he showed them without asking or even noticing, now look where they are now.
Sona: Because of him and his gang the cases of women being harassed on their way home is being reduced dramatically in the passed few months, Hamuda and his crew are divided into many small squads and scout the town, prioritize dark alley or deserted street, and beat the sh*t of any man with ill intentions toward women.
Robin: They even had a good working structure for their scouting schedule, Hamuda is a smart student, he just doesn't know where to put that intelligence in.
Tsubaki: He is being admired a lot by town people, especially the women for being their protector, this motivates Hamuda to work harder, I even recalled some boys asked to join Hamuda's crew.
End of flashback
The dating group are now home, just in time the men and Serafall are done with their job, they are now lying on the sofa in the living room, panting in exhaustion. Yelena and Millicas have also done their training, and while Yelena is okay, Millicas is really tired as he goes to join the men and Serafall on the sofa. Seeing their men like that, the wives just lightly giggle and take their action to comfort their man. Venelana, Sena and Yelena take their position on their respective husband's lap and look at them with affectionate eyes. Sona and Rias also join by sitting next to Serafall and Millicas
Venelana: I told you to let me help~ But congratulations for completing your job, now we can enjoy the rest of the day together~
Zeoticus: I'll keep that in mind next time, now, give me my reward.
Venelana: Gladly.
She said as she and her husband shared a deep kiss on the sofa.
Sora: Are you proud of me, my dear Sena~? I completed all the jobs today in 4 hours.
Sena: You did a fantastic job, my love. Now rest, let your wife help you relax.
Sora also receives a kiss from his wife, to which he quickly blends in.
Sirzechs: Where should we go today, Honey~? I have completed my job, I want to spend more time with you and Millicas.
Yelena: I have already planned it all, now get some rest, you deserve them.
Another kiss is shared between the Satan and his wife.
Sona: How are you doing, sister?
Serafall: Yess, I have done it, done it all, will you go on a date with you sister this afternoon?
Sona: Yes, I will, we can spend time together, just like old times.
Sona and Serafall share a sweet hug together.
Millicas: Aunty, look at my muscle *flexes his muscle*
Rias: You have grown so much, Millicas, I am very amazed by how fast you are growing, and guess who will be amazed as well? Kunou~
Millicas: I'll show her my result tonight, it's my calling schedule with her today.
Out of the kitchen, Arto steps out in an apron and holds a spatula in his hands.
Arto: What are you doing sitting there? Go wash yourself, lunch is almost done.
Hearing this, the women pick their man up like a bride and walk upstairs into the largest bathroom in the house for a shared bath.
Robin: So you're cooking today, Arto? It's been so long since the last time I tasted your dishes.
Albedo out of nowhere flies to him and give him a hug
Albedo: MASTER!! I miss you so much.
Arto: I miss you too Albedo, how was your day?
Albedo: There were so many men leering at me lustfully, if it's not for Robin, I'd have killed them all, they dare look at me with those eyes...utterly DISGUSTING.
Arto: *smooch* I am glad you successfully hold your horses, I am so proud, my Albedo. I love you~
Albedo: Hehehe~ I love you too, Master.
Grayfia: Do you need any help, Master?
Arto: I need you to go upstairs and start the time dilation function in the bathroom for them, let the women enjoy their man to the fullest.
Grayfia: On it, Master~
Arto: Rias, You take little Millicas to the bathroom in my room for him to bathe.
Nami: I'll join you in washing Millicas, Rias.
Robin: Sona, Serafall, you can use the bathroom in my room, we share many bathing preferences, so you'll feel relaxed in there. You know what? I'll join too, right, Akeno, Albedo?
Albedo: Of course, I have never had a bath with a Satan before.
Serafall: Then you'll love it, girl. Thank you Robin, you're the best. I have always wanted to touch Sona's and your naked body.
Robin: Then we'll have our chance to know each other in a more physical way. Fufufu~
Sona: Guess I have no choice. Please take care of me.
Akeno: I'll pass this time, I want to spend some time is bath with my bestie Tsubaki
Tsubaki: Then let's go, Akeno.
Everyone is now washing themselves, leaving Arto and Koneko behind.
Arto: So Koneko, how was the date with everyone?
Koneko: I had a great date, a lot of sweets for me to eat as much as I want, Ohh, Grayfia even bought a cake for you here, this is called tiramisu, it's really delicious.
Arto: I am looking forward to it, now, go get yourself clean, I'll prepare lunch and everything for you.
Koneko: No, I can't do that, we can take a bath later, I want to help you prepare the table. Arto, please let me help, you have done so much for us after all.
Arto: Alright, alright, you win, now come and help me.
Koneko: On it.
As the prepping group is doing their job, the doorbell rings constantly.
Grayfia: I'll take it. *open the door* Good morning, sir, how may I assist you today?
Chapter 21: The cat
Summary:
Cat tale
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Grayfia: I'll take it. *open the door* Good morning, sir, how may I assist you today?
Issei: Hi, it's me again, I came back as promised, can we meet your Master?
Matsuda: Damn she is even hotter upclose.
Motohama: I can stare at her all day.
Grayfia: These perverts, why are they here to see my Master Arto?..... May I have your name, sir? I don't recall my Master having any appointment today.
Issei: There isn't anything much, I just want to get to know him a little.
Grayfia: Is it anything urgent? My Master is really busy with his work right now.
Issei: Just some friendly greeting is all. He wouldn't mind a little 'hi', right?
Grayfia: I see, just wait a little sirs, I'll ask my Master for permission
She said as she closed the door and get inside to ask Arto for a permission, he is now preparing the table with Koneko
Arto: Who is it, Grayfia?
Grayfia: Those that followed us, they are out there.
Arto then opens an eye in Robin's network to see who Grayfia is talking about.
Arto: I see, the 'Perverted Trio'. Well,they have caused enough trouble for you and the ladies today, Grayfia, decline.
Grayfia: Yes, Master.
She said as she went to the door to see the Trio, her face is cold and stoic
Grayfia: My Master is really busy right now and he is unable to meet you, sirs, I hope you understand.
Issei: But you said I can come back in 2 or 3 weeks to meet your Master.
Grayfia: I said that, but new jobs arised, that's why it is so important to make an appointment before coming, sirs.
Issei: Then how do I make an appointment with your Master?
Grayfia: Here, you can use this number to make an appointment, but make sure the matter you want to talk about is worth my Master's attention, please do not be some little greetings, we can't arrange that, sirs.
Issei: I see, Thank you, Grayfia. See you later, beautiful maid~.
Matsuda: Goodbye Grayfia~
Motohama: Goodbye, Gorgeous~
Issei: I'll find out who is the owner of this mansion
The trio then leave, Grayfia closes the door in annoyance for their disturbance in the morning, from following her and the ladies around town to annoying her and her Master.
Arto: Thank you, Grayfia, your patience against those perverts is really commendable, I never thought you could maintain your cool when facing those annoying people.
Grayfia: Thank you, Master, for your compliment. Do you need anything else?
Arto: No, you can go ahead and take a shower, then join me and everyone for lunch.
Grayfia: Will do, Master~
Arto and Grayfia then share a kiss before heading upstairs for a bath. While walking up, Grayfia makes sure to sway her hips side to side to seduce her Master, but to no avail. Now Arto is the only one in the living room, well, almost
Arto: Koneko, are you done sneaky eating?
Koneko: Yes, it's delicious, but don't worry, I only eat what is left in the pot, the table is safe.
Arto: Thank a bunch. Now I am eager to try that 'tiramisu', how about we head to the living room and eat together.
Koneko: You said that.
Arto: I know what I said, and I know how much you like sweet treat, now come, let us enjoy this cake.
Arto and Koneko then move to the living room, the cake is now presented to them.
Arto: This does look really delicious, are you ready, Koneko?
Koneko: Yeah, you go ahead and have the first bite, Grayfia bought it for you after all.
Arto then take a spoon-full of tiramisu and and directs it at Koneko
Arto: Koneko, say 'ahhh'
Koneko: *hesitates* *blush* Ahhhhh
Arto then feeds that spoon of tiramisu to Koneko, and she is enjoying the cake with all of her taste. Koneko then swoops and spoon-fulls as well and tries to feed it to Arto.
Koneko: Arto, say 'ahhh'
Arto accepts and opens his mouth to be fed by Koneko, the moment the cake hits his tongue, the taste surge into his mouth: sweet, fatty taste of the cream and the softness of the ladyfingers.
Arto: This is really good, I love it, where did you buy it?
Koneko: You should ask Grayfia, now, let us continue.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the tiramisu running out)
Arto: That's good, thank you for eating with me, Koneko.
Koneko: *yawns* No problem, whenever you have too many sweet treats but can't finish them all, call me.
Arto: I'll keep that in mind. You look sleepy there, Koneko, how about a nap *pats his lap* ?
After a few moments of hesitation, Koneko surrenders, laying her head on Arto's lap sleepily.
Koneko: Didn't expect it to be this soft.
Arto: I adjust my muscles a little to give you a perfect pillow, now get a nap.
Koneko: You're the best, Arto~
Arto: I know~
The next minutes were spent in peaceful silence, Arto rubs her hair gently when she is sleeping soundly on his lap like a little cat. As Arto was carefully caressing her hair with his hand, he felt something weird, something concealed by magic. Curious, he delves into the disguise spell and finds something interesting after lifting it, Koneko has cat ears and tail, all pure white
Arto: So cute, why is she hiding this?
Her little tail swings side to side, which makes her really cute with her big cat ears. Arto keeps on touching, rubbing, caressing her ears, the way her ears lightly twitch whenever he touches make her even more adorable. The next minutes are when Arto enjoys his time with his little cat Koneko. But out of nowhere, she wakes up and looks at him with sleepy eyes, still not knowing that her ears and tail are out for Arto to see.
Koneko: What time is it, Arto?
Arto: Lunch time, my little kitty, but you woke up too early, everyone hasn't done with their bath yet, you can go ahead and sleep again.
Koneko: Alright, Arto~
She said as she went back to sleep.
Arto: Such a cute Nekomata, no, Nekoshou, I can pet her all day like this.
And the petting session begins when the first group finishes their bath: Rias, Nami and Millicas. Seeing Koneko, Millicas and Nami couldn't help but get cuteness overload.
Nami/Millicas: So cuuuuuttttteeeee~
Arto: *shhh* Keep it down while she is sleeping.
Rias: 'The cat is now out of the bag' they say. Arto~
Arto: Rias~
The lovers then share a kiss before she settle down on his side, looking at Nami and Millicas playing with Koneko's cat traits as she sleep soundly on Arto's lap
Arto: What happened? Why did she have to hide it?
Rias: To shield her from her inner turmoil, her fear, her race, her family.
Arto: Let me guess, Kuroka?
Rias: You know?
Arto: I know from the wanted poster, SS-rated, wanted for killing her master, they said that Senjutsu made her into a mad woman, thirsting for power.....
Arto/Rias: ....but that's not true....Huh?
Arto: Have you met her before?
Rias: I have, when she was searching for her with Akeno, I heard her voice, mixed with Koneko's panting. When we arrived, Koneko was severely injured, blood was everywhere, she was lying on the ground, resting her back against a tree. Kuroka was standing before her, talking about eating her own sister for power. Akeno and I immediately attacked, pushed her away. But she made no advance towards us but turned around and left. The thing was about her eyes before leaving, she was crying
(A/N: Something like this)
Arto: That doesn't quite fit her actions prior, what was she trying to do? So you recruited Koneko from then?
Rias: Yes, she was on the verge of death at that time, so I must do it. Even in her weakened states, Koneko still muttered 'sister', like calling Kuroka back to her. What about you, how did you know her?
Arto: I met her once while I was finding some materials for the simulation room, we exchanged a few moves before she left, eager to see me again. They said her Senjutsu made her mad and drown in power, but I dare say otherwise, she has expert control over Senjutsu, there is no way she got mad, only amateurs would say that, and there are lots of amateurs out there.
Rias: I see, then her intention is still shrouded in fog.
Arto: I am curious. What is her intention with injuring her sister like that?
Rias: You know what they say: 'Curiosity kills the cat'.
Arto: But I'm not a cat, I'm a wolf, a magical wolf, and this wolf is curious, I'll dive deeper into this matter later, but now, let us enjoy this little kitty here, a cute gift from fate for us.
Albedo: My Master~ I am done with my bath. Now your beautiful Succubus requires your love~
Robin: Keep it down, Albedo, don't you see there's someone sleeping?
Sona: *Blushes* That's the most touchy bath I have ever had.
Serafall: But you liked it, didn't you? Arto's women really are something.
Arto: Here comes the second group, how was your bath session, good?
Albedo: *Smooch* It was more than just good, Master~ It was wonderful, never in my life would I think of having a talk with one of the Satans, let alone bathing with one. Both Serafall and Sona have such great bodies to them, I love our time together
Robin: And I must say, there was no distance between us. The Serafall we meet here is Serafall Sitri, not Serafall Leviathan, a carefree girl with no burden of duties on her. We had a great talk among us, and I would be glad to share if you like, Arto~ *smooch*
Arto: I am looking forward to it, my love~ What about you Sona, how was the bath?
Sona: It's just like old times, when I was a kid, me and my sister usually took a bath together, sometimes with mother and father, it was indeed really fun. I love how me and her washed each other's back, and washed each other's hair, it brought back lots of memories. Thank you Arto for today's experience, I love you~ *smooch*
Arto: I am glad, you like it, my sweet Sona~. What about you, Serafall? What do you think about my services, my women?
Serafall: I love them, and I think I'll be back here a lot in the future. Your women really did their job nicely keeping me and my sister company, thank you for the service, Arto~. Now, hug your sweet little Sera. Your warmth will be a good cherry on top of my wonderful experience here
Arto and Serafall then share a warm hug, before all the attention is brought back to the white cat who is waking up due to commotion caused by everyone in the living room.
Koneko: Can you keep it down? I am sleeping here.
Nami: She is even cuter when she is angry, I love her so much, my little Koneko~
Millicas: Yes, Aunty Koneko, your ears and tail were so adorable, I love them.
Hearing what Millicas said, Koneko checks her head to see her ears are out for people to see. Her face is now all red, a rare sight to see.
She then tries to hide it but was stopped by Arto
Arto: Why are you hiding them, Koneko? It's really cute~
Koneko: But....
Arto: Here....
Arto said as he show her his wolf ears
Everyone: CUTE~~~
Arto: See? Nothing's wrong with it, it's a part of you so you gotta live with it, you can't hide from it forever, the more you hide, the more it will find its way out.
Koneko: But I don't know if I can control it, I don't want to become a monster, I don't want to harm those I love, I don't want to be like my sister, drown in power.
Arto: Then let me help you, I can help you with Senjutsu, we can learn together, you are a really strong girl to begin with, all you need is some directions, and you will master it in no time.
Koneko: Can I really do it?
Arto: I promise you, under my instruction, you can do it, Besides,....your sister isn't mad, she is not drown in power, she is too smart to be like that, she did that to you for a reason, we don't know it yet but, she is nowhere near mad, I dare tell you that. So you can ease your worry and embrace what you are.
Hearing this, tears started to flow out of Koneko's eyes as she hugged Arto tightly and pressed her head against his chest. Arto just gently rub her head, to reassure everything will be fine
Koneko: Thank you, Arto, thank you so much. I'll do my best under your instruction.
Rias: Arto, you know Senjutsu?
Arto: Yes, I learned it from the wolves in my world. I lived with them for quite some time, about 4 years before being captured and brought back to the castle. That's when this thing was put on my body.
Arto said as he turned his head around, showing a mark that has the shape of a small cube that digs deep in his skin. This terrified everyone in the room, even Robin, who has touched the mark quite some times when she and Arto share their kiss.
Millicas: Is it painful, Uncle?
Arto: Used to, now, it's nothing more than a mark of my old life.
Sona: This is horrible, I have touched it a few times, but seeing it like this is stinging.
Serafall: How long have you had it on your body, Arto? This is beyond agony.
Arto: This thing has stayed on my body for my whole old life from the time it's put on my body, since it has a function to it, a function that will prevent me from escaping: If I tried to remove the cube in any way I would die. But after I passed away and got transferred to this world, the cube disappeared, I guess it is still on my old body.
Albedo: I didn't know you have been through such pain, Master, but what does it do to you?
Arto: It helps my creator keep track of my position, prevent me from escaping from him, so that he can keep on torturing me. The last time I escaped, I lived with a wolf pack, they taught me everything, treated like their kin. Through time, I learned Senjutsu from the old wolves who have become sage once they deem me worthy of their knowledge
Nami: So you learned Senjutsu for 4 years before being captured, how old were you back then?
Arto: About 6.
Everyone: *Grasp* 6!?
Arto: Yes, around 6, when I first went on my survival mission, I stayed hidden from the guards when they came to find me to take me back to the castle. I live in the forest, among the wolves, I then learned to communicate with them. And before I knew it, I had become one of them. They treated me like a part of their family. I have wolf brothers and sisters, we hunted together, ate together, except I had to cook my food to eat. Then I get to see the sages and receive their guidance to learn Senjutsu, so I studied their way but still tried to maintain myself, tried not to turn into a wolf completely, but I could turn myself into a wolf and blend deeper into the life of the pack. Overtime, I proved myself and got to have a hunting group of my own, that's when I started to learn about leadership, about leading an army, many experiences from then had still been used when I took over the position as the leader of Abyssgard Legion.
Albedo: Wow~ My master is so amazing~ I love you so much~
Tsubaki: That's one epic story
Akeno: But you got caught?
Akeno and Tsubaki have also done with their bath and come downstairs.
Arto: Yes, they caught me and brought me back to the castle. After 4 years of hiding, the device was put on my body from then on to subdue me, ending my 4 years of peaceful life.
Serafall: We are so sorry, making you remember such bad memories.
Arto: It's okay, I have to remember bad memories many times while teaching the girls here, that's where my experiences and knowledge came from. At first, I didn't want to look into it, but these girls gave those memories a purpose, a guiding light, a library to help them learn to get stronger and smarter.
Rias: So we are studying using your pain and suffering as materials, Arto?
Akeno: We don't want you to feel uncomfortable about it, it makes you sad after all, we don't want to see our love being sad.
Arto: Nope, I don't feel uneasy at all delving into those memories of mine, since like I said: it has a purpose, I look into them to get knowledge, I just ignore the pain it brought me, because I know that I am here, in a new life, with beautiful women around me, loving me with all their hearts, those memories couldn't hurt me no more.
Robin: I see, I am glad we can help you overcome it, our love~
Sona: We'll help you make more good memories to overcome your painful life, you have us, your harem, all the way.
Koneko: When can we start the training, Arto?
Arto: Anytime you want, I am always ready. Now, where are the couples?
Zeoticus: We're here, you don't need to look for us, I want to go back in that bath again with my wife
Sirzechs: Sorry for making you wait, my wife was just too amazing.
Sora: Indeed, it has been too long since the last time I had such a satisfying bath with my wife.
Zeoticus, Sirzechs and Sora are descending the stairs, carrying their respective wives like a bride, the wives are holding on to their respective husbands with a satisfying smile on their face.
Venelana: You were so amazing, Zeoticus~. I am really pleased~
Sena: I want to go back in there once more, Sora~
Yelena: Sirzechs, I love you so much~
Arto: I am glad you had a wonderful bath date, now, there is one person left.
Grayfia: I am here, my Master, your beloved Grayfia has finished her bath and is ready to serve you all she can.
Arto: Thank you Grayfia. Now that everyone is here, let us dig into the feast for our successful project of time dilation function.
Everyone then gets in their seat at the table and starts enjoying the feast with satisfaction.
Arto: I want to ask you, my lords, how do you like the new function of the simulation room?
Sirzechs: You gotta ask? I love it, every last bit of it. It's really tiring but when everything is done, it's totally worth it. I am taking my wife and my son on a trip today, to enjoy my new gained time with them.
Millicas: Where are we heading to, Daddy?
Sirzechs: Secret~ *shh*
Millicas: You are getting my hope up.
Zeoticus: I can't believe it was just 4 hours outside the room, this function is amazing, I can't thank you enough, Arto. Venelana, will you go on a date with me this afternoon?
Venelana: Of course Zeoticus, I will never miss a chance going out with you.
Sora: This function will help me greatly with our experiments, which takes lots of time to wait for the effect. But, Sena here is my priority for the day, I'll take her on a date as well. Sena dear, will you accept your husband's humble invitation and go on a date with me?
Sena: Yes, Sora, you have my permission.
Serafall: You are the best Arto, giving me so much more time with my beloved sister, I can't thank you enough for this goodness you brought us today, I'll come back here as much as I can to work and spend time with my Sona. Sona, will you go out with your sister Serafall this afternoon?
Sona: Thank you, sister, I will go with you.
Nami: Looks like everyone is enjoying themselves, Arto, you did an amazing job with that room, you know. Getting families closer together, you rock Arto.
Arto: I am glad I could help, it's heartwarming seeing them like this, all happy and full of love, I am glad I could bring more time to them to enjoy their life away from duties.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Zeoticus, Sora and Sirzechs carrying Chibi Venelana, Sena and Yelena on their back running)
Arto: Look at them go, youthful and free, like all the tiredness of the 20 hours work flew out the window seeing their wives happy. Sirzechs as well, I have never seen him this happy before
Rias: Indeed, they look so happy, they will come back here more in the future. I hope we can be like that too in the future when we get married.
Akeno: Of course we'll be like that, we have Arto with us, he will surely be a loving husband for us women.
Albedo: I can't wait to the day he breed me and make powerful children that carry his 'Will of the Abyssgard'
Robin: That day will come soon, but I'll be the woman who will bear his first child, I am his favorite after all.
Grayfia: We'll all have a child or two with Master Arto here~, I am glad I will be their mother. And they will have the best father fate could offer. Our kids will be happy.
Arto: I am glad you girls want to have kids with me, I have the same wish as well, I love you girls so much. Now, how will we spend this afternoon?
Robin: In your embrace. Sleeping the day away, enjoying our dream together, that's all that I want after an eventful morning.
Rias: Yes, Arto, us women like it simple, sleeping with you.
Albedo: Being with you is the best, I have had enough lustful eyes that were not yours on me today.
Akeno: Will you accept your women's request, Arto?
Grayfia: Embrace us tight, Master, never let us go, never let your beloved women go.
Nami: I would love to have a nap with you as well, Arto
Arto: Well, then, let's take a nap girls, I want to feel your gentle embrace.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the Chibi group of Arto and his harem sleeping together)
Arto POV
Weirdly, my dream today is not the dark arena, but a vast grass field, stretching to the horizon. I have never seen my dream so bright before, the sun above my head is shining warmly, the breeze is gentle and cool, combined with the sound and smell of grass make the experience one of a kind. I have never seen a dream like this before, not even once in my life, but I am willing to have a dream like this everyday. As I was enjoying the view, I heard voices from behind me.
Nami: Arrrrttttooo! Over here.
Hearing her voice, I turn around to see my women are enjoying themselves under a large tree's shade on a mattress with lots of food on it, a picnic, they are all wearing their comfort clothes for this event, and they are calling me to them, my women, I can't stop loving them.
Rias: Arto, do you like what we prepare for you today?
Arto: Prepare? What do you mean?
Akeno: This dreamscape, this is what we prepare for you, a joint dream of ours...
Robin: ...it overwhelmed your own dreamscape and took you here, where you can enjoy your sweet time with your lovers without anyone disturbing.
Albedo: Being in your dream, we have figure out how to make your dream a better place than just a dark arena
Arto: So that's why you girls asked me so much about lucid dream recently
Grayfia: Yes, we made this dream together with our knowledge about lucid dreams. But it took all of our effort to suppress your dream and get you out of it to come here.
Rias: It was so strong, its grip on you was really massive, it took us lots of effort to get you out of its grasp, temporarily.
Nami: And now, here we are enjoying the sweet dream, do whatever we want, get anything we like, we can let our imaginations fly. You deserve this Arto.
Arto: Thank you girls, thank you so much for going this far just for me.
Rias: "Just"? You are more than that "just", Arto you are the best gift from fate for us, you gathered us....
Akeno: ....Taught us....
Robin: ....Cherished us....
Nami: ....Warm us....
Grayfia: ....Saved us....
Albedo: .....Freed us....
Girls: ....Love us, Arto~ You are more than "just"
Hearing this, my tears started to flow out of my eyes. These girls, I love them so much, I can't believe they went this far for me, helping me in real life is not enough, they saved me from my daily dream, full of fights and struggles. I can't imagine a life without them by my side, I love my girls, my women, my harem.
Arto: Can you stop making me love you more everyday?
Girls: Nope, Arto you're meant to love us more everyday, just like we love you more each day.
Arto: I see, now, let us get to our feast before us....
3rd POV
Robin:....wait, Arto, there is one more matter we need to look into before we move on to the feast....
Akeno: Don't worry, Arto, everything will still be warm and delicious....
Rias: You don't need to rush, the feast is still waiting for us
Albedo: Without further ado, let us begin our....
Grayfia: ....Arto's harem council meeting.
Arto: Ehh? Here?
Robin: Yes, today, we have a really good case. Since Sona is not here today, the person who will run the lie detecting spell today will be Albedo. Rias, please tell us about the case we are having today
Rias: Yes, the case today is about Nami's request to join Arto's harem as one of his lovers. Since Nami informed the council that she hasn't confessed her feelings for Arto yet, she just kissed him once on his lips. As the only witness, can you confirm that Nami has had a kiss on your lips, Mr Abyssgard?
Arto: Yes, I can confirm that I and Nami have shared a kiss on our lips.
Albedo: No lie detected, you can proceed, Rias.
Rias: Yes, now can you both show me the moment, the moment of your kiss. Since we are having lucid dreams here, getting memories would be very easy. Please, show me your proof.
Arto and Nami then think of their kiss together. Out of thin air, 2 bubbles appear, inside is the kiss of Arto and Nami in 2 perspectives.
Akeno: The memories have appeared, I will verify the dream to see if there are any traces of false memories. Do you have your consent, Arto, Nami?
Arto/Nami: You have my consent.
Akeno: Alright, let the testing phase begin
After 5 minutes of testing, Akeno came to a conclusion
Akeno: There is no trace of false memories, the kiss between Arto and Nami was real. You can proceed now, Miss Robin.
Robin: Good, since Nami hasn't confessed her feelings for Arto, and we have our man right here. Let us begin the confessing phase, where Nami will confess her love for Arto and the reason why she loves him in truth and detail, any trace of lie will not be allowed.
Nami: *Inhale* Back at Sakamata Ryu's mansion, when everything got dire, I failed in getting past the security system unnoticed, I was caught, beaten badly by the guards of the mansion. At the deepest point of despair, I thought I would never make it out, considering my severely injured body. But that sound, brutal but brought me hope, someone was breaking the circle from outside to come in. The sound got louder and louder, someone is trying to save me, I don't know who that is but I couldn't help but hope. But the moment Ryu brought the Juggernauts in, the giant meat tank that can shoot magic bombs, my hope was blown off like a matchstick in the storm. But In the sound of the magic bombs shooting at me, I am still alive. That's when I realized Arto's presence, his voice was warm and clear, he reassured my safety and told me to rest, so he casted a sleeping spell on me. My mind got drowsy, but a tint of hope flickered in my mind.....
Robin: Please continue, Nami.
Nami: Yes. The moment I woke up, I was somewhere unfamiliar, a bed, but not at my home, somewhere else. Then I got to meet Rias, Akeno and Robin, people that greeted me with care and a welcoming attitude. Then Rias told me about the man who saved me, this raised more questions in my head about Arto's intention when saving me, he got the 'Dream Mirror', why did he risk exposing his presence to save me? I couldn't help but wonder. Being in the criminal world for a long time, I thought I knew something he wanted, so he saved me, but the moment I heard his reason for saving me, I was in awe: He saved me because my state back at the mansion reminded him of himself, being beaten without mercy. I couldn't wrap my head around that reason, how could it be that simple? It can't be that simple, how could a person that good exist in this world? But I couldn't bring myself to ask him about it....
Rias: Arto is that kind of person, you'll always be surprised by how simple but reasonable his intention is
Nami: Then the thing that he saved my life wasn't mentioned anymore, he didn't ask for anything in return, absolutely nothing. He even offered me a place in his home, a stay in this town, he said I could stay as long as I want. My mind ran like crazy trying to find a reason why he did that? All kinds of theories were written inside my head, trying to find his intention, his scheme. But one by one, the theory was eliminated by his gentle actions, gestures toward me. What is left really shocked me: Arto is just a good person, nothing more, nothing less. He offered me a place to stay, a school to go to and study, a place in his magic class to help me develop my weather controlling ability, he gave me a new life, no more stealing, no more running, no more hiding, just a normal girl name Nami, a student at Kuoh Academy. And he asks nothing in return, I can leave anytime I want, he respects that, every decision of mine.
Albedo: I got that too when I first interacted with Master Arto, he asked nothing in return after paying a mountain of money to buy me from the auction house.
Nami: Then overtime, I grew more and more attached to this town, a peaceful town, little commotion, low-profile, the people were warm and friendly, well, except some perverts. Overtime, I grew more attached to the girls, especially Rias, we share lots of similarities, we got attached to each other really fast, surprisingly fast, I never thought a princess from a noble family could be that simple and cute, there were no distance between us, we are simply close friend, as Rias and Nami, not a princess and a thief. Overtime, my stay in this town keeps extending, even though some parts of me keep telling me to come back, to become the 'Cat Burglar' again, to go on with the heists again. Here, I have a family, a loving family, with Rias, with Akeno, with Robin, with....Arto, something I have always been craving my whole life as an orphan. And for the first time in my life, I felt the love of a mother, from Lady Venelana, even though she is a devil, she treated me with love and care like I am her own daughter.
Akeno: Yeah, mother's love is really something else, don't you say?
Nami: Yeah, lastly, the last thing happened after I helped him with his preparation for the next project with the simulation room. He offered me a position as his finance manager. He wanted me, a thief, to manage his gigantic fortune. I couldn't believe it at first, is he crazy or something, trusting me with that matter? But when he revealed my crimeful past with finance, he shared my pain, soothed my soul and expressed his unwavering trust in my loyalty to him, I know where my heart lies, I know he is telling the truth, he will never betray me like those bastards back then. He offered me a chance to go back to my profession and passion of finance despite my past with a steadfast faith in my ability. Arto won me over to his side that way, he broke every wall of doubt in my mind with sincerity and compassion and hugged me tightly, reassuring me of a new beginning, where I can live in happiness and harmony with a family that truly loves me and cares for me.
Grayfia: He is indeed one of a kind, right?
Nami: Arto, the one who saved me from my death, the one who gave me a new life, a new family, gave me a new goal, everything without asking anything in return. I want you to receive something in return, Arto: my love. I love you, Arto, I love you so much, Arto Abyssgard, my love, my light, my hero.
Robin: What a story you have been through, Nami. And Arto, what do you say, will you receive her love in return for what you have done for her?
Arto: I will, but only your love for me, for who I am, not things I did for you, what you received, you deserve them, I didn't do it out of kindness, I did it out of necessity, to give you what you deserve, what is rightfully yours. But in the end, I love you, Nami, my Nami~
Nami: I love you too, my Arto Abyssgard~
Albedo: What an emotional journey we have been through with Nami's story, no tint of lie in her story. Now to the most important part, the voting phase.
Robin: Who disagrees, and again, DISAGREES with Nami's request to join this harem? Show me your magical sign.
No sign could be found
Robin: Good, now, Who AGREES with Grayfia's request to join this harem? Show me your magical sign.
Everyone then shows their magical signs.
Nami: Wait, what about Sona?
Robin: Sona left a message for us before going on a date with her sister Serafall: "In all circumstances, I agree with Nami's request to join Arto's harem, Nami deserve as much after what she has been through"
The emotions in Nami are getting out of control as tears start to flow out of her eyes, she covers her mouth with her hands, trying to suppress the overflowing feeling inside her. In that state, she mutters
Nami: So.....That means....
Rias: Welcome to the family, Nami, you'll be one of Arto's lovers from now on.
Akeno: Now, to the last ritual, to seal the entry of a new harem member, a new sister, a kiss between you and our man.
Nami then turns to Arto who is welcoming her with open arms, she wastes no time and launches herself into his embrace, and shares a deep loving kiss in the witness of the harem members. After a few minutes of kissing, Arto and Nami separated and looked into each other's eyes, full of love.
Arto: I love you, Nami~
Nami: I love you too, Arto~
Robin: Now, let us move to the feast, to welcome a new woman into our family.
The feast went on harmony and love, Arto and Nami sitting next to each other, exchanging loving gestures in the happiness of other harem members. After the meal, everyone are cuddling around Arto under the shade of the tree in a lovely atmosphere, the time goes on and on, hours, days, they don't know, they are enjoying themselves, enjoying a new woman in the harem, enjoying their beloved man, Arto.
(TImeskip: Brought to you by the sun setting on the dreamscape made by Arto's lovers)
The moment Arto and his harem woke up, the sun had set, they had slept all afternoon, but can they continue their sleep? Yes they can. Everyone get out of bed and back to their respective room to take a shower, before enjoy a warm feast among themselves in the kitchen, just Arto and his lovers, until bedtime
Robin: Now, today, we have a little change in the sleeping order. Tonight, Albedo and Nami will be the one who will sleep the closest to our man, I will sleep near Akeno and Rias will sleep near Grayfia.
Nami: Thank you, Robin.
Robin: It's only natural, the new girl will be prioritized on the first night to sleep near Arto.
Albedo: Prepare yourself, Nami, you're about to witness our man in his full strength.
They then get themselves in the position and drive immediately to sleep.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Nami hugging Chibi Arto)
Rias: Arto, show me your wolf ears~~~
Akeno: How could you hide such cute things from your women, let us touch them, please~~~
Robin: They were so fluffy, I want to touch them too, Arto, show them to me.
Nami: Please, Arto, You can't hide such cuteness from us, it's cruel
Albedo: Nami is right, hiding such cuteness is a crime. Master, please let us touch it.
Arto: Grayfia....
Grayfia: *Reaches her hand out* Fluffy ears....
Arto: *Shows his ears* Please treat them gently, they are sens....
But his warning fell on deaf ears as the girls are now touching his ears vigorously with their hand, Albedo is licking his ears even, this stimulation is hitting Arto really hard since he is trying his best to keep his composure. After a few minutes of suffering from his lovers' touch
Arto: Please stop, it's getting really hot around here, how about I turn into a full wolf for you girl to play with?
Girls: YES!!
Arto: Then let go of my ears and give me some space please
His harem step back and let Arto change, after a few moments, their beloved big wolf appeared
(A/N: No sword though)
Arto the wolf then lies down on his belly and lets his lovers do whatever they want to him in excitement.
Rias: His fur is so thick and warm, I love it~
Akeno: I like his paws, they are so big but so cute, Arto, shake *Arto raises his big paws to perform a shake with Akeno*
Robin: I like his tail, they are so fluffy and cute, this will act as the perfect blanket for me.
Grayfia: His ears is mine, don't you dare touch it *flies to Arto's ears and starts to rub it*
Albedo: Then I'll take his snout for myself. Now Arto, lick your beloved Albedo with that big tongue of your *Arto licks her* Yes~ Yes~ keep going my good boy.
Nami: Keep going girls, I'll take his back, this will be a perfect bed for me.
The time passes but the girls are not showing any trace of boredom towards Arto the wolf, they are still passionately playing with their big wolf, Arto is totally okay with that, just chilling and letting his women play with his wolf form.
Koneko: Arto, Can you teach me how to....
She looks at Arto the wolf lying on his belly in the living room with his harem playing with him. Her jaws drop to the floor
Arto: Koneko, good day to you. You came for our training session right. Wait for me a bit. *Turns back to normal* Sorry, girls, play time's over, I have training with Koneko.
The 2 teleport to a quiet forest with big tall trees and a bountiful grass field. As Koneko stood before Arto Abyssgard on her first day of training, she couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. The ancient trees around them seemed to hum with an energy she could barely comprehend. Arto, towering over her with his wolf-like features, exuded an aura of calm strength. He began to speak, his voice deep and resonant, like the growl of a distant thunderstorm.
Arto: Senjutsu, Koneko, is the art of manipulating the natural energy that flows through all things. It is a discipline that requires not just physical strength, but mental clarity and spiritual harmony.
Arto: *gestured to the forest around them.* Look at the trees, feel the wind, listen to the sounds of the forest. Everything you see and hear is part of the natural world, a vast network of energy and life. This energy, which we call Ki, flows through every living thing and the environment itself. In Senjutsu, you learn to tap into this energy, to become a conduit for it.
Arto: * voice took on a more instructional tone* There are three fundamental aspects of Senjutsu: balance, focus, and harmony. Balance means maintaining an equilibrium between your own energy and the natural energy around you. If you take too much or give too little, you disrupt this balance, which can lead to physical and spiritual harm....
Arto: ....Focus is the ability to direct this energy with precision. Just as a river carves its path through the land, you must guide the flow of Ki within you, channeling it to enhance your strength, speed, and senses. This requires intense concentration and control....
Arto: ....And finally, harmony. Harmony is about existing in sync with the natural world. It's about understanding that you are not separate from nature, but a part of it. When you achieve harmony, you can draw upon the energy around you effortlessly, becoming one with the environment.
Arto paused, allowing his words to sink in. He then shifted into his wolf form, his transformation seamless and fluid.
Arto: The wolf sages, from whom I learned, embody these principles. Their enhanced senses, their strength, and their connection to the natural world are all results of mastering Senjutsu. They taught me to embrace my inner nature, to listen to the world around me, and to find my place within it.
He returned to his human form and looked at Koneko with a hint of a smile.
Arto: Today, you begin this journey. It will be difficult, and there will be times you will doubt yourself. But remember, true mastery of Senjutsu is not just about power. It is about understanding, patience, and perseverance. Embrace these principles, and you will find the strength within yourself.
Koneko nodded, feeling a mix of awe and determination. Arto's explanation had opened a door to a world she had only glimpsed before. With his guidance, she was ready to step through that door and begin her journey into the heart of Senjutsu.
Arto: *Deep voice* Feel the earth beneath your feet, Koneko. Let the energy of nature flow into you
Koneko closed her eyes, trying to ground herself. She imagined roots extending from her body into the soil, but the sensation was elusive, slipping through her mental grasp like water through fingers. Frustration bubbled up inside her, and she clenched her fists, feeling the weight of her inadequacies. "I can't do it," she muttered, more to herself than to Arto. Arto's sharp ears caught her words, and he shifted into his wolf form, his deep blue eyes piercing through her doubt.
Arto: Patience, Koneko. Senjutsu is not mastered in a day. It requires balance, focus, and harmony. Let go of your frustration; it only clouds your mind.
Over the next few weeks, Koneko's training was grueling. Each morning she rose before dawn, joining Arto in the glade. They began with meditation, a practice that felt alien to her restless spirit. Arto taught her to breathe deeply, to quiet her mind and listen to the subtle symphony of nature. The rustle of leaves, the whisper of the wind, the distant call of birds—all these sounds began to weave into a calming tapestry that anchored her.
Despite her efforts, progress was slow. Koneko often felt overwhelmed by the complexity of Senjutsu, her attempts to channel natural energy resulting in nothing more than fleeting sensations. Arto remained patient, his wolf form a constant reminder of the connection she sought to achieve. His teachings were interspersed with tales of the wolf sages, their wisdom echoing in her mind during moments of doubt.
One particularly challenging day, Koneko was on the verge of giving up. She had spent hours trying to harness the energy, but each attempt ended in failure. Exhausted and disheartened, she collapsed to the ground, tears of frustration stinging her eyes. Arto approached her, his form shifting back to his humanoid state. He knelt beside her, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
Arto: Do you know why the wolf sages are so revered? It's not just their strength or their mastery of Senjutsu. It's their resilience. They understand that true power comes from perseverance and the willingness to face one's own limitations.
Koneko looked up at him, his words resonating deeply. She nodded, wiping her tears, and took a deep breath. She rose to her feet, determination hardening her resolve. She would not let her doubts defeat her.
As the days turned into weeks, Koneko's efforts began to bear fruit. During one early morning session, she finally felt it—a warm, tingling sensation spreading through her limbs as she connected with the earth's energy. Her senses sharpened, colors seemed more vibrant, and she could hear the faintest rustle of leaves. With Arto's guidance, she directed the energy, channeling it into her fists. She struck out at a training dummy, and a burst of energy shot forth, splintering the wooden target into pieces.
Arto's wolf eyes gleamed with pride as he observed her progress.
Arto: Good, Koneko. You've done well. But remember, true mastery of Senjutsu is a lifelong journey. You must continue to practice, to seek balance and harmony in all things.
Koneko nodded, her heart swelling with a sense of accomplishment and newfound purpose. She knew there were many challenges ahead, but with Arto's guidance and the wisdom of the wolf sages, she was ready to face them. The journey to mastering Senjutsu had only just begun, and she was determined to see it through.
Koneko: Thank you, Arto, for everything, I will keep training, please watch over me.
Arto: You know it, you have done well, Koneko. You have overcome your fear and face it directly with a heart full of determination. I am really proud.
After the training session, Arto comes into his room, looks at a file sent to him a few weeks ago by Sirzechs, about the case of Kuroka Toujou.
Arto: Let me see what you want to do, Kuroka? Why did you kill your Master?
Arto flips through the file to see, it's too short, no investigation, just accusation, the file is on a page, saying Kuroka killed her Master out of madness when training Senjutsu and thirst for power. This concerns Arto. He immediately called Sirzechs for information.
Arto: I am looking at Kuroka's case, everything is shrouded in mystery. The information in this file isn't enough to accuse her, no evidence, no investigation, no nothing, how could this happen, Sirzechs?
Sirzechs: I know, I am concerned too, I was too busy to look closely into that case back then, so I let others deal with the case. But when you asked for it a few weeks ago, this is the first time I could look into the case. But it has been too long, no one is willing to look into this case anymore. The only thing I can do is to change the wanted poster for Kuroka from 'Dead Or Alive' to 'Only Alive', I must get a full context for her action. But for now, she is still deemed guilty for killing her Master.
Arto: I see, no one is willing to look into this case, huh? Then I'll look into it myself, Sirzechs? Do I have your permission?
Sirzechs: Feel free to do it Arto, no one cares about this case anyway, they treat it like all other stray devils' cases. But if you find anything, make sure to inform me.
Arto: Will do, now I must go. Goodbye, Sirzechs.
Sirzechs: Goodbye Arto.
The call ended, Arto looks back into the file
Arto: Let's see our destination for the night.
Arto takes a look at the case file to see the place where it all started, the mansion of a noble devil. Putting on a cloak and a mask, specially made by the Abyssgard Legion to prevent anything from knowing the face behind the mask, even God's eyes can't see through the mask. Arto gets on his way to his destination, the place where Kuroka killed her Master.
The mansion is in the middle of the forest, away from any attention. The place has been abandoned for a long time, all types of plants spawning all over the place. This increases the mysterious vibe of the mansion. The former owner of the mansion is said to be a weird man, rarely gets out of his mansion, stays away from any attention and interaction, he lives alone here with only a few servants, but they are all dead after the owner is gone. This man is also said to be a scientist, he is obsessed with his experiments, although no one knows what he is researching due to him not sharing anything with anyone about his research.
Arto: Let's head inside to see if there's anything left.
Arto then coats himself in the Null Zone and a layer of Presence Concealment to be completely invisible and undetectable. After the preparation, Arto walks inside the mansion. Everything inside is old and battered through a long time. Most of the mansion has become the place for plants to thrive, water drops from the ceiling in most rooms. Room after room, nothing noticeable was found, nothing about the case was found.
Arto: They are either not here or have been destroyed through time. No wonder no one wants to dive into this case anymore.
The whole mansion is examined by Arto, room after room, still nothing. But when Arto got inside the Master bedroom, something weird caught his eyes: There is something on the wall beside the place where the bed used to be, it is carefully concealed by magic
Arto: Not as good as Robin concealment technique, but enough for people with low and middle, even those with high mastery of Magic if not careful to not notice. Let's see....what do we have here?
Arto takes a look into the concealed door, to see it has a camera and many detectors on it, and they are working, looking, sensing the person in front of the door. Since Arto is using Null Zone and Presence Concealment, those inside haven't found him.
Arto: It's working, so this place is still functioning.....I must find a way to get inside....What is it?
Arto looks to the side of the door, a little hole, enough to fit a finger inside. Checking, Arto notices that this door uses fingerprints to identify and grant access to the room
Arto: Fingerprints, huh? Let's see how strong you are, door?
Arto said as he dived into the system of the door using magic, change the system to allow his fingerprint to be granted access to the room.
Arto: As I said, not as hard as Robin system....Now, let's head in
Behind the door is a portal, leading to somewhere else, a place that has an opposite state with the mansion: a hall filled with dim light, stretching along with many rooms along the hall. This place has a modern vibe to it, just like a lab. Going along the hall, Arto gets to see the rooms, inside, there are many scientists, they are experimenting on living people from many species, all are alive for now and are suffering from great pain and agony caused by the scientists. Even though he couldn't hear, he knows they are screaming pain in there, in that room.
Arto: These bastards....but I must move on, I need to get to the root of this. Please stay strong, I will come to your rescue soon.
Going deeper into the lab, Arto comes to a meeting room, where many monsters in the name of scientists are talking. Getting inside, Arto turns on the recorder to capture what they are saying.
D.S(Devil Scientist)1: How is the result, everyone?
D.S 2: Everything is going well, they are showing some traces of evolving. They are adapting to the chemicals, some didn't make it but it's getting better.
D.S 1: That is promising, keep that up, what about their obedience?
D.S 3: They still fight back after being released from the chain, but the fighting is getting weaker, they are starting to accept their fate.
D.S 1: I see, looks like your methods are showing its result, what about the new batch?
D.S 4: We are doing our best to bring as many subjects back as possible, but they are starting to notice the loss of people, so it's getting harder.
D.S 1: I see, I'll tell the higher ups about this and ask for their support in capturing more subjects for us. All in all, everything is processing, that's good, the project Doctor Kunal left behind for us will not be in vain. With this rate, the time we can have made an army of obedient 'Super devil' will not be far, the lords will be pleased. Alright, get back to work
D.S 2/3/4: Roger
Arto: Done, but I need more proof than this....I must move on.
Arto then goes deeper into the lab, each room he comes across, the more terrifying the experiments are, he can see people suffering in pain not just physical, but mental as well, no way to escape, they have to endure until they make it and move on to another experiment with more torment actions or die and get thrown away like a bag of trash. Ironically, those are dead might be luckier than those alive, since their suffering has ended, while those alive will have to keep going through more torture.
Arto: Poor souls, they will never recover even when this thing is over.....
Arto then comes across the offices of scientists, where they work on their twisted science. Arto goes deeper and deeper to the last room, the room of the head of this lab. Arto did the same with the first door, adding his fingerprint to the system to grant himself access. Getting inside, Arto hacks his way into the computer to access all the data inside this lab. This lab is specialized in creating an army of 'Super Devil', base on the research left behind by Kunal Clement after his death
Arto: Kunal Clement....That's Kuroka's Master....I see.
Arto then dug deeper into the data to see 2 names: Kuroka Toujou and Shirone Toujou, 2 of the first testing subjects of the mad scientist Kunal Clement, a pair of Nekoshou sisters, formal member of Kunal's peerage, but Arto only found experiment records of Kuroka, he doesn't found any of Shirone.
Arto: Sirzechs would want to see this.....
Arto then copies all the data in the database and the documents of the lab into a hard drive. As the process was going on, Arto noticed something on the documents, the mark.
Arto: Old Satan faction.....So they are behind this....
After copying all the data, Arto stands up and leaves, leaving behind the poor testing subjects, he needs to inform Sirzechs about this, no matter how much Arto wants to save them, he needs more forces for this assault.
Sirzechs: This is....this is....UNACCEPTABLE!!!
Sirzechs roars in anger looking at the data Arto brought back to him, Arto's face has a clear trace of sadness.
Sirzechs: Do you know where these wretches are? Can you navigate their lab?
Arto: I have left some teleportation points at the strategic locations of the lab, I just need your approval for a direct assault. We need to make this a surprise attack, I don't want them to delete all the data and get away with it.
Sirzechs: Of course, you have my permission, take as many elite soldiers as you need, Arto, I can't let these bastards get away with it.
Arto: Thank you, Sirzechs. I'll launch the assault right away.
Arto has gathered 5 squads of elite soldiers and now Arto is telling them the plan.
Arto: Here is the map of the teleportation points I place inside the lab. I need Squad 1 and 2 to take over the lab, subdue the scientists, and retrieve the documents. Squad 3, 4, 5, I need you to free the subjects and take them to safety, defense forces, kill, no question. You will stay here and wait for my signal. The moment I open the door to the lab, these teleportation points will be accessible. Then the assault will begin. Did I make myself clear?
Squads: ROGER!
And the mission begins....
Arto: I am coming, please, wait for me. I'll put an end to this, I will not let you suffer from anymore pain.
Arto then access the room in his Null Zone and Presence Concealment
Squads' leaders: Everyone, let's move.
The office was soon invaded, all the scientists were captured, tons of papers, documents, and computer hard drives were retrieved on the spot, some try to delete the data but to no avail, they soon get subdued by the elite squads. The defenses forces soon get destroyed, the door of experimental room is opened
T.S (Test Subject) 1: Are you here to save us?
E.S (Elite Soldier) 1: Yes, you're safe with us, don't worry.
E.S 2: Captain, there are even more prisons down here.
S.L (Squad Leader) 3: Examine them all, rescue anyone alive.
Arto: How is it going?
S.L 4: You won't believe how many people they are holding captured down here.
Arto follows them to the lower layers of the lab, where the people are imprisoned. His eyes widen seeing how the amount of people here
Arto: This is insane....There are thousands of people here and they said they want more.......This is worse than I thought. Take them all out.
S.L 4: Roger that, lord Arto.
(TImeskip: Brought to you by the door of a prison cell opens)
Sirzechs: Take them all to memory extractor, I want to know everything about their actions, their motives and the ones behind them
Squads' leaders: Roger, my lord.
Arto: This is insane, I can't believe how many people down there
Sirzechs: This is beyond anything I have ever faced, I can't let this continue, the people have suffered enough.
Arto: Yeah, death was too merciful for those bastards.
Sirzechs: I'll help the people erase those memories and send them back to their families, if they are still around, I saw some test subjects that were there for hundreds of years, from the civil war between Old and new Satan Faction, they were captured and tested on from then. After being rescued, they asked for a merciful escape from their pain.
Arto: Will you grant them that?
Flashback
Sirzechs: You are all from Legion 13 under my command?
Soldier 1: Yes, My lord, we're squad 43 of front-line soldiers, 100 people of us. Unfortunately, only 58 of us could wait to be rescued by you, my lord.
Sirzechs: Thank you, every single one of you valiant soldiers for believing in me, for waiting for me, I am so sorry I couldn't come sooner. *tears started to fall from his eyes*
Soldier 2: But you came to save us, that's all that is important. But may we ask you a question, my Lord?
Sirzechs: Anything, I'll do my best to answer.
Squad 43: Did we win, my Lord?
Sirzechs: Yes, Yes, we won, everyone, we have won, the time of peace have come upon us
Soldier 3: I am glad, I am so glad, now I can rest in peace.
Soldier 4: That's all that I have ever hoped for, to live long enough to see an era free from war.
Soldier 1: Can you grant us the one last favor, my lord?
Squad 43: Please grant us a merciful escape from all this pain. That's all we are asking
End of Flashback
Sirzechs: I don't know, I saw some of them are from the legion I led during the war, the first question they asked me was if we have won the civil war. When I said yes, they were so happy, I could see their tears, those valiant soldiers, they also asked me for a merciful escape. It's hard, you know, I want them to experience the victory they fought so hard to win, the peaceful time I promised them, but I can't stand seeing those soldiers suffer from the pain because of the trauma those scientists caused them. I don't know, Arto, I don't know.
Arto: They deserve to rest, Sirzechs, they have been through a lot, keeping them around will only make the pain go deeper. The time they live is peaceful but their minds are not, a peaceful day will not help them cure the nightmares they are enduring every night. Just make sure you honor those soldiers and grant them a painless escape.
Sirzechs: I see, thank you, Arto.
Sirzechs then go to the room where his soldier are, having a decision in his mind
Sirzechs: Hello, everyone, I am here to announce that I will grant your request, I will give you the 'merciful escape' you are looking for. Thank you for your service, valiant soldiers, you are the building blocks of the peaceful time we are in, and I, Sirzechs Lucifer, hereby express my eternal gratitude for your bravery, endurance and faith.
Squad 43's leader: Thank you, my lord, for coming for us, for saving us, for letting us know about the victory, a bit late, but that's all that we wish for, a peaceful time for our descendants.
Squad 43: THANK YOU, LORD SIRZECHS!!
Tears started to flow out of the Satan's eyes as he looked at his loyal soldiers.
Sirzechs: Please... Bring it in....
The nurses bring in the medicine for the soldiers 'merciful escape'
Sirzechs: This is called 'Pleasant dream', this will bring you the 'merciful escape' you are looking for. Are you sure you want this, my soldiers?
Squad 43: We are, my lord.
Sirzechs: Then.....pro....pro....proceed.
The 'Pleasant dream' doses are injected into the soldiers. After a few minutes, they fell asleep, into their 'Pleasant dream'. Looking at the smile on his soldiers' faces, Sirzechs couldn't be strong anymore as he collapsed on his knee
Sirzechs: I am so sorry, my soldiers.....I am so sorry......
Arto: *Pats his back* You did the right thing, bringing them to a new life is the best way to get them out of their pain.
Sirzechs: Even so, it's painful, Arto, it's so very painful.
Sirzechs keeps on crying while Arto is there for him, for his future brother-in-law.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Arto and Chibi Sirzechs sit next to each other with sad faces)
Arto is sitting inside his office in his mansion, grading his class's recent test and thinking about what happened....
Arto: 87, Koneko is doing better with spell making, I am glad, in both class and simulation room....you're welcome.....Kuroka.
Kuroka: You have keen senses, Abyssgard. Thank you for everything, taking care of Shirone, cleansing my name, bringing those bastards to the light....how can this little cat repay you?
Arto: Actually....
Chapter Text
3rd POV
On a peaceful morning in Kuoh, Arto is reading documents for his new project, Koneko runs the room, her hand is holding a newspaper. She jumps into Arto's laps and shows him the newspaper, her voice filled with anticipation
Koneko: Arto, is it true? Is it true that my sister Kuroka is free from her crimes?
Arto: You read that? Yes, she is. She is now free from her crimes, she is now a free Nekoshou, she can go and do anything she wants now that they are not after her anymore.
Koneko: *hugs Arto tightly* I am glad. Thank you, Arto, thank you so much, for everything you have done for me and my sister.....*Sniff*....I....don't know....*sniff*....what to .....say....*sniff*.....but.....Thank you, Arto, Thank you.
Arto: *Brushes away her tears* There is no need for a 'Thank you', you deserve it, deserve to be happy, your sister also, you both deserve to be happy, after all that bastard Kunal has done to you two. Fortunately for him, he's dead, or else, death would be something he will beg to have. *Evil grin*
Koneko: Arto, you are being like that again.
Arto: Sorry, Koneko, old habits.
Koneko: Remember to keep your temper in check, okay? Now I wonder where my sister is?
Kuroka: Shirone
Koneko turns her head to see her sister is standing at the entrance of the living room with teary eyes.
Koneko: BIG SIS!!!
She rushes at her sister at full speed as they share a loving hug of reunion, tears of happiness flow out of their eyes as they hold each other close.
Flashback
Kuroka: You have keen senses, Abyssgard. Thank you for everything, taking care of Shirone, cleansing my name, bringing those bastards to the light....how can this little cat repay you?
Arto: Actually....spend some quality time with you sister.
Kuroka: I see, but will she accept me? After what I have done to her? Abandoned her, threatened to eat her for power, she must be very scared of me now.
Arto: But you did that for a reason, yes?
Kuroka: Yes, I want her to have a better life than keep on running away with me, I don't want her to suffer from my crime, even if it is to protect her from Kunal, it's still a crime, killing my own Master. I can't expose his actions because no one will believe me and the Old Satan Faction will do everything for this to be a secret, so I started to run away with Shirone, leaving that wretched mansion behind. But as time went on, I realized, Shirone has nothing to do with this and she deserves to have a better life.....
Kuroka started to sniffle as her continue her story
Kuroka: ....So I came up with an idea, for her to have a better life while I take all the attention on myself, to keep her safe *sniff* I tried to leave her behind at a spot where Rias will surely find her, cause I know she and her Queen were after me that day *sniff* But things didn't go as planned, Shirone found her way to me, refuses to let go, she said she want to go with me *sniff* but I can't stand seeing my sister live in fear and pain because of me *started to cry* I did that, I did that horrible *sniff* thing to my sister *sniff* You don't know how painful *sniff* it is saying those words to my little sister, to do those horrible things to her *sniff* while trying my best to hold my tears *sniff* I tried to be as loud as possible, to draw Rias' attention. *sniff* but even after that, she still call my name, still tried to hold me back, *sniff* to call me back to her.
Kuroka started to cry loudly, she couldn't be strong anymore. Arto turns back to her and pulls Kuroka into a hug
Arto: It's alright, Kuroka, it's alright now. Everything is in the past, nothing can hurt you and your sister anymore.
Kuroka: But....*sniff*....how....how....will she.....*sniff*....accept.....a horrible....*sniff*.....*sniff*....sister like......*sniff*.....me?
Arto: *Look at the door* You won't know until you try, and you'll be surprised by how much Koneko loves her big sister.
End of flashback
Koneko: *cries* I miss you so much, big sis!!! Please never leave me again, never leave me again.
Kuroka: *cries* I promise, my little Shirone, I promise I will never leave you again, never, never, Shirone, my beloved Shirone!! Please forgive me, forgive me this horrible sister for what she has done to you.
Koneko: *cries* I can't be mad at you, sister, I could never bring myself to, especially after what I heard last night.
Kuroka: Wait!? You heard?
Koneko: I came to Arto's office last night to ask a few questions, but sensing you and Arto talking, I masked my energy, and enhanced my hearing to listen to your conversation. I couldn't hold my tears hearing your reasons for your action, now I get it, I get why you acted like that. I am not mad at you sister, I love you too much to do so. I am just happy that you came back to me now
Their hug tighten, their cries get louder as Arto smile warmly at the cat sisters
Arto: Look at them, now I want a reunion.
Flashback
???: Will we see each other again?
Arto: *Thumb up* *nods*
End of flashback
Arto: We will~
Koneko: Who are you talking to, Arto?
Arto: Uhh, no..nothing. How will you spend your day? Now that you are together again.
Kuroka: We'll see, I'll have to test her Senjutsu training result, let's see how good of a teacher you are.
Arto: Feel free to test her. But, get inside the simulation room, don't do anything stupid out here.
Kuroka: Ohhhh~ What is a simulation room? This little cat is curious
Koneko: It's a creation of Arto, follow me, I'll show you.
Kuroka: This is really interesting.
Koneko and Kuroka then teleport to the basement of ORC clubhouse to see the simulation room, leaving Arto behind.
Arto: *sighs* Now, how will I spend the day? Nami and Rias traveled overseas together, Robin and Akeno went on a trip to some ancient ruin, Grayfia went home to visit her parents, Albedo...Albedo......Where is Albedo?
Albedo: I'm here, Master~ Were you looking for me? Did you miss me~?
Arto: Yes, I did, Albedo. You know how much I hate being alone.
Albedo: I'm so sorry for leaving you alone, Master~ I just went to buy food for our lunch together~ How careless of me~ I'll make sure to stay by your side.
Arto: Thank you, Albedo, love you~
Albedo: Love you too, Master~ So what is your plan today?
Arto: I'll make some prototypes for the external mana reserve for myself, Nami and Robin. I have delayed this project long enough.
Albedo: How can I help you, Master?
Arto: I need you to test out the prototypes for me, and give me some opinion about how to make it more fashionable to wear.
Albedo: I see, but I first need to shape of the device, then I help you design them to look better to wear on your body.
Arto: Right, let's begin...
And the design process is set into motion
Arto: What do you think?
Albedo: It's too big Master, wearing this will be very heavy, especially for Robin and Nami, whose strength is not as good as you and me.
Arto: I see.......*timeskip*.....how about this?
Albedo: The shape is better now, but it's still too big, Master~
Arto: Then.....*timeskip*......how about now?
Albedo: These can be trimmed off, still, too big
After a hour of trying with so much prototypes
Arto: Oh no, I ran out of this mana storage material.
Albedo: Is it important?
Arto: It is, it helps store the mana to use for future purposes.
Albedo: I see, let me make a call for Sitri clan for more
Arto: No, Albedo. It would take too long for the materials to arrive, this is my personal project so the priority rate for it is lower. But I need material in one or 2 days to complete this.
Albedo: So we are heading out to buy some?
Arto: Yes, my Albedo. We'll go buy some in the black market, I don't want the legal market to question my intention, they are annoying as hell.
Albedo: I see, so when are we going, Master~?
Arto: We are heading out now, put on this mask and change your clothes
Albedo: What is this mask?
Arto: It's a special mask made by the Abyssgard scientists, it will prevent your identity from being exposed. Nothing can see through this mask, even Gods' eyes. We will communicate via a super secured magic line within the mask, so we don't need to say anything out loud.
Albedo: Is it that powerful?
Arto: It is super effective against Gods' agents I faced once, where even a word could make your identity come to the light, this mask is the only option against them.
Albedo: You faced Gods' agents, why?
Arto: To protect a family, no, a person the Gods deemed dangerous, we must stay hidden. If they knew Abyssgard had a hand in protecting the family, the Legion would be in danger.
Albedo: Is that person that important to you, to put the Legion's sake on the line like that?
Arto: Now I think about it.......I don't know, Albedo.......I knew I protected a family.......but the members, their faces, their names, I don't remember. It's kind of weird, I must have had a good reason to risk the safety of my whole Legion to protect them.
Albedo: I know you have, Master. Now, shall we?
Arto: We shall. Right after we get some money to spend. *Gets a bag full of weird shape coins*
Albedo: I see, this will keep them undetected against police
Arto: Yes, now let's go.
Arto and Albedo then put on the masks, change their clothes and their trip to the black market begins...
Albedo then talks to Arto through the magic line within the mask
Albedo: 'This is more lively than I thought'
Arto: 'Indeed, this is where they sell everything, even mythical goods, we can find lots of things here. I have been a few times to buy materials for the simulation room'.
Albedo: 'Where are we heading, Master?'
Arto: 'The shop I usually go to in this market: Efioca's, the owner there is quite lovely'
The bell on the door rings as Arto and Albedo get in the shop, the owner, Efioca, a black haired, brown eyes man recognizes his loyal customer.
Efioca: Ahhh, Mr A., it's good to see you are back, guess my wish my prayer have reached the above, the business these days is really hard, you're like a rain to my desert. Looks like you have a friend with you today, what can I do for you, A.?
Arto silently show him a piece of paper
Efioca: I see, you're looking for these materials. Lucky for you, we have a new batch of these materials arrived just yesterday, let me get them for you to see
Efioca then heads inside the store, leaving Arto and Albedo behind
Albedo: 'You sure have a good relationship with him'
Arto: 'Yes, we have done business a few times, I never bargain about the price like others, so he always save the good batch for me whenever I call'
Albedo: 'I see, may I have a look around the store, Master?'
Arto: 'Go ahead, but don't break anything,'
Albedo: 'Got it, Master'
And as Arto stood to wait for Efioca to come back, Albedo started to wander through the high stack of goods in the store, paying close attention to the magical items Efioca sells here. When she come across a large box, she comes closer to the box, and her eyes widen
Albedo: This energy...!?...Master, there's someone in here!!
Arto: What!? Where!?
Arto came to Albedo's place in a hurry, to see Albedo had already torn the box open, revealing a cage with a red haired girl with a bandage on her right eye inside, she is really weak, thin and is suffering from severe malnourishment. Arto nods to Albedo as she breaks the cage and takes the girl out.
Arto: '17-18 years old, why is she here? Why didn't sense her? She must have been here for days, no food and drink, in darkness...'
Albedo: 'Don't beat yourself about it, Master. Her energy is very weak, not to mention there are a lot of magical items around her, her energy is easily overwhelmed.'
Arto sighs and check her pulse to see if see is alive
Arto: She is still alive, but very weak
Arto did what he could to treat the girl, before handing her to Albedo
Arto: Albedo, take her to the hospital, now!
Albedo: Yes, Master.
She said as she carried the girl and disappeared. At the same time, Efioca has also returned with a box full of Arto's ordered materials
Efioca: Here you go, Mr A, fresh and new, these are the highest of the quality. I am sure you'll love it
Arto then write what he want to say in the air for Efioca to see
Arto: 'I appreciate that, but why is there a caged girl in the store? I thought you don't do that stuff.'
Efioca: There is!? Where!? *Arto point at the camera in the store* I'll check it. *takes out a tablet* HOW!? How is a girl in there? It must have been a wrong delivery, I would never do that, I have 2 little angels at home, I can't do that. I know I do illegal stuff, but nowhere near that, you gotta believe me, A. This is not my intention, I only sell magical items, nothing more, nothing less.
Arto: He is not lying, Efioca does sell illegal things, but he loves his little family, his wife is gone, so he has to do both duties as mother and father to his 2 little girls.....
Arto: 'I trust you Efioca, but how are you going to deal with her?'
Efioca: You can take her with you, no charge or anything, I don't own her so I don't have the right, if anyone comes and asks about her, I'll say she was dead in the cage due to malnourishment without me noticing.
Arto: 'I see. Thank you, Efioca, here...'
Arto then gives Efioca the money for what he bought and takes his leave, directly to the hospital where the girl is.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Arto appears out of nowhere)
Arto: How is she now?
Doctor: Her condition is stable now, she is really a strong girl holding on till this point, but she has lost one of her eyes, we have done what we could with her right eye, it will only make her feel less painful on what is left of her right eye.
Arto: I see, can we see her now?
Doctor: Unfortunately. She still needs some rest, you can come back later.
Albedo: Thank you, doctor, for taking care of her.
Arto: Thank you doctor, we'll come back later then.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Arto and Chibi Albedo walking together)
Arto: What should we cook for her?
Albedo: Something nutritious and hefty in portion, she would want to have something that helps her feel full after days without anything to eat.
Arto: I see, now come and help me, we need to bring her something good now that she is in our care now.
Albedo: At once, Master
After a while the meal is done and it is put in a heat preserving box with a food maintenance spell on. Arto and Albedo are now at the entrance of the hospital
Arto: Where is she staying, Albedo?
Albedo: Room 304, let's go, Master.
They then head to their destination to see the girl is awake with a new bandage on her right eyes
Seeing Arto and Albedo, the girl has wary attitude towards them, she talks defensively
The girl: Who are you!? What do you want!?
Arto: We mean no harm, girl, we came to bring you food, you must have been really hungry stucking in that cage for days without food or drink.
The girl: That stance, that aura, where did I see this?....Why should I believe you?
Albedo: Because we are the ones that brought you here after getting you out of the cage.
The girl: You are treating me like this so that you can sell me again, aren't you? I would rather die.
Arto: No, girl, we are not those human trafficking bastards, we will not sell you or anything. In fact, we want to help you.
The girl: This man,....I have seen him somewhere, not in this form...How?
Albedo: We want to give you a new life with a new family, now that you are not a slave anymore, you are now under our care.
The girl: Why should I believe you?
Arto: Because I too was a slave, to my creator's ambition, then to my duty, my freedom, my life was taken away from me forcefully, and I don't want people to suffer from the same pain as I did...
The girl: I remember now......This must be him...the beacon of hope among the slaves...So you're that man?
Arto: Which man?
The girl: The man that spends tons of money to buy lots of slaves from the black market, then releases them without asking anything in return.
Albedo: No wonder Master arrives at that black market so much. But I never hear Nami scold him about his spendings, I wonder why?
Arto: How did you know?
The girl: You didn't talk at the market, but that stance, that aura, that demeanor, it's one of a kind, I wouldn't mistake it for anything else, A.
Arto: *eyes widen* You have keen eyes, girl. Now will you help us by eating this? To regain your strength.
The girl: *Sighs* Fine
Albedo: Thank you, here you go
Albedo then presents the food in front of the girl with a smile. The smell of the dishes makes the girl unable to wait anymore as she starts to eat. She doesn't have any time to talk as she is too busy eating.
Albedo: She must have been really hungry.
Arto: Yes, she reminds me of myself once, I had to survive for a week with only a dry food bar.
Albedo: Akeno told me that before, she said that you ate a whole deer to their bone in one meal after you got a survival mission, something you only get once or 2 times a year.
Arto: That was a hard time indeed, that's why I don't want to see people suffering like that, it's painful.
Albedo: But Nami never scolds you about spending so much money freeing slaves, why is that?
Arto: Because we also gain money from those we freed, Nami has found them jobs with good salary and treatments for those that we freed base on their specialties and we get brokerage fees from the employers, who are willing pay more to have good and loyal employees, since most of the people we saved were kidnapped from their families and forced to become a slaves, they have some professions with them. Not only that, those bastards human traffickers have to pay us and reduce the price for my buyings constantly to keep their lines safe. Remember, we have 'The Spy' with us, nothing could get through her eyes.
Albedo: What about the kids?
Arto: Nami manages that too, since there are lots of infertile couples, Nami will manage for the kids to be adopted into those families. And she will make sure the kids are well treated every step of their growth. The Families are more than happy having those kids with them, because they are very docile and well mannered due to their slavery.
Albedo: I see, I thought you just bought them then released them.
Arto: No, that's the most cruel thing you can do to a freed slave, throw them into the world they have lost connection to for a long time. Sooner or later, they will find themselves being a slave again, making our action of freeing them meaningless. Nami plays a crucial role in this, she helps the slaves slowly and steadily getting back to the society, with jobs that can both help them live and nurture their families. That's everything we can do for them, the next path will be theirs to decide.
The next moments were spent in silence as Arto and Albedo look at the girl devouring all the food they brought her with joy and happiness, but she saves something for last, the strawberry cake Arto made. Unlike other food, with this strawberry cake, she eats elegantly with a fork, enjoy every bite to the fullest
The girl: This is so delicious~ Thank you, A. How did you know I like strawberry cake?
Arto: Just some wild guess, I am glad it is to your liking. Ohh, right, we haven't properly introduced ourselves now, have we? Then let me go first, I am Arto, Arto Abyssgard. It's a pleasure to meet you here.
Albedo: I am Albedo, Arto's secretary, nice to meet you as well.
The girl: So you were a slave as well, Albedo, having no surname? *She nods* I see, I am Erza, nice to meet you.
Albedo: Good day to you, Erza, but when you fill your patient papers, you need a full name, so you should think of a surname for yourself.
Erza: I don't know, I am good with Erza, can you think of something for me?
Arto: Alright, let's see...Red hair...how about......Scarlet? Erza Scarlet?
Erza: That sounds lovely, I like that name, let's go with that. But I have a question for you, Arto?
Arto: What is it?
Erza: Why didn't you save them all? You know, the slaves?
Arto: Because I have my standards, not all of them are worth my help.
Erza: Okay? Why?
Arto: I only save those that want to be free, those that have the will to get out of chain and go back to their life. It's meaningless to save those that don't want to be free, they will go back to being a slave sooner or later. I examine all the slaves, to see if they want to be free, how much they want to be free, then I will decide to save them or not. Those who have accepted their fate will not be saved, they don't deserve to be. I really don't like the attitude of 'What is the point?', 'There is no way out', 'Why even try?',....I don't want to help those that don't need my help.
Erza: Then do I deserve your saving, Arto?
Arto: Then why do you think you are here, Erza?
Erza: How did you know that I have such will?
Arto: The mark on the cage, you tried to punch and kick your way out of the cage, I saw the dent you made and your bloody hands. You tried to yell for help, but your voice didn't reach the outside, Efioca said he heard some noises in the shop, but he ignored them since those sounds are similar to the screaming envelopes he sells.
Albedo: You have shown great will to be free, Erza, and my Master recognizes it.
Erza: It doesn't seem to be enough to go this far just for me, there are people out there with stronger wills than me. I know there are something else and I demand to know
Arto: You have a keen eye, Erza, I'll give you that. But I must say your will is among the strongest I have ever seen among the slaves, the fire in your eye burns really bright, the flame of determination, of an unbreakable will, an unbeaten spirit, and a valiant heart. I saw myself within you, a tormented soul of a child who has suffered from slavery at a very young age, but strives to grow to get out of chains and constraints, how could I ignore someone like that?
Arto said as he looked straight into Erza's only eye with his right eye wide open, the flames within their eyes meet, blue and red, different in color but have the same meaning. A connection is formed between the former-slaves. They look into each other's eye in silence, seeing the story of the other one's life, all the pain, all the suffering they have been through. They are sharing, talking through their gazes for the other.
Albedo: I'll inform the council about having a new sister in the harem soon, fufufufu~
Erza: I see, thank you, Arto, for sharing your story, I didn't know you have been through so much.
Arto: You have been through a lot too, Erza, and I want to help you recover and grow from your sufferings, to develop your inner power, to become a better person. What do you say, Erza? Will you join me?
Erza: I am glad you join you, Arto, please take care of me.
Arto: Then welcome to the family, Erza. Now, please rest, we'll come and pick you up when you are in full health to your new home.
Erza: Thank you, Arto, for everything.
Arto: Don't mention it, you deserve as much. Albedo, let's go.
Albedo: Yes, Master~
(TImeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Erza enjoying a strawberry cake)
Albedo: Ladies, we are going to have a new girl who will arrive in a few days....
Rias: Really? How was she like?
Albedo: She is lovely, her attitude was wary at first, but softened throughout our conversation with her, now she is going to live here with us.
Akeno: How did you meet her?
Albedo: She was a wrongly delivered slave at a black market shop where Master Arto and I went to buy some materials for his project. The owner there has nothing to do with her so she will be in our care from now on.
Robin: Go on, how did she catch our man's eyes?
Albedo: She was trapped inside a cage for days with no food or drink, but she tried her best to break her way out. Even though she is a human, she made a deep dent on the cage she was in, but she in the end failed and fainted due to exhaustion and malnourishment. I found her and took her to the hospital.
Nami: So she is a girl with a strong will of freedom, a fitting choice for our man, there is more to her, yes?
Albedo: Yes, when we visited her after she woke up, she immediately formed a connection with Arto through their gazes. She has that flame in her eyes too, like the 'Will of the Abyssgard', but the color is red, not blue. They talked via their eyes for many minutes, and I can see they share the same story of enslaved childhoods.
Grayfia: I see, she is similar to our man in many ways, she will be welcomed here, we will help her get through those traumas like what we have done for our beloved Arto.
Arto: What are you girls talking about?
Albedo: Nothing much, Master~ We just talk about Erza.
Arto: I see, you are looking forward to seeing her, yes?
Rias: We are, can you tell us how Erza looks?
Arto: Erza is a lovely, well-mannered girl with a strong liking for strawberry cake. She has long red hair like Rias and beautiful brown eyes, but she only has one eye.
Grayfia: I'll make her some delicious strawberry cakes to welcome her to the new home.
Robin: What happened to her eye?
Arto: She was tortured for leading her fellow slaves fighting against her 'owners', she lost one of her eye after that
Nami: Those bastards, they dare do that to Erza, what can we do to help her?
Arto: I'll make an artificial eye for her, I've already got the indexes, Sona and I will make her a brand new eye for her brand new life
Rias: She has red hair just like me? Arto~, are you developing a new fetish~?
Arto: I don't know what you're talking about. *Rias smirks* Moving on...
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a strawberry cake runs out by big bites)
Arto POV
The day has come, the day Erza join my family, I come with Albedo today to pick her up from the hospital, I am feeling a little antsy right now, welcoming a new member to the mansion of mine
Albedo: Are you nervous, Master?
Arto: No, I am totally fine, it's just....I don't know.
We arrive at Erza's room to see her bed is carefully made, she has donned on a new outfit Rias sent her yesterday, really ready to go to her new home, seeing us, she is really happy.
Erza: Arto, Albedo, you have come.
Albedo: Yes, dear, we have come to pick you up.
Erza: Thank you so much, I am ready to go now.
Arto: Then what are we waiting for? Let's go.
We then head out of the hospital and go to a corner where no one sees and teleport home via teleportation a spell. Upon arriving at the mansion, Erza was in awe, she points at the mansion and look at me
Erza: Is..Is....it..my new....new....home?
Albedo: It is, Erza, your new home. C'mon on in, everyone is waiting to see you.
When the gate is opened for the 3 of us to get in, the house is covered in a festive atmosphere, there are banners everywhere that read: 'Welcome Erza', 'Welcome to your new home, Erza',..... Seeing this, Erza is kind of nervous.
Erza: I never thought I'd be greeted like this, I don't know what to say.
Albedo: This family is like that, there are no distance between us, no matter you are a noble, a commoner or a slave, you'll be welcomed here with open arms, no place for prejudices, Arto has educated everyone in this house very well about respecting others, no matter their class.
Erza: I see, thank you for your words, Albedo, I feel less nervous now.
Albedo: You're welcome, Erza. Now let's get inside.
The door of the house opened, revealing Grayfia standing gracefully to greet us home.
Grayfia: Welcome home, Master, Albedo, you must be Erza. Welcome to our home, the place that will soon be your new home for you to live your new life with us.
Erza: Good day to you, Grayfia, Arto sure has a beautiful maid, did Arto save you as well?
Grayfia: Indeed, Master did save me from my fate, something I will forever be grateful for. He is a wonderful man.
Albedo: For your information, Grayfia is a noble high-class devil, she was not a slave like you think, fufufu~
Erza: What!? Then why are you wearing a maid outfit like that?
Grayfia: It's just a liking of mine, I like being a maid from a very young age, I like the feeling of taking care of other people, especially my loved ones. So you can ease your worry, I am here by my own will, no one forces me or anything.
Erza: I see, thank you for your sharing, Grayfia.
Grayfia: You're welcome, now, let us head inside to meet other people who live in this beautiful mansion.
We then head inside the living room, where everyone is waiting to see the new member of the family with party hats on their head. Upon the arrival of us, the greeting sounds cover the whole room.
Everyone: WELCOME ERZA SCARLET!!!
Erza: Wow! This place is so lively. How are there so many beautiful women in this mansion?
Robin: Welcome to your new home, dear, you will love your stay here. My name is Nico Robin, nice to meet you.
Erza: Erza Scarlet, it's my pleasure to meet such a beautiful woman like you, my lady.
Rias: Hello, Erza, my name is Rias Gremory, nice to meet you, welcome to your new home. *hugs Erza* I think I have found my long lost sister, our hair looks so identical.
Erza: *hugs Rias back* Yes, I never thought I would meet someone with hair that is so similar to me, I think we are sisters in a way
Akeno: Ara ara~ What a warm family reunion you have there. Hello, my name is Akeno Himejima. Nice to meet you, Erza, you are indeed one gorgeous girl
Erza: Nice to meet you too, Akeno, you look gorgeous as well
Nami: Hello, my name is Nami. Welcome to your new home, we will surely get along.
Erza: Thank you Nami, I wish to know more about everyone here as well.
Sona: Good day to you, Erza, I am Sona Sitri, it's a pleasure.
Erza: Good day to you as well, my lady, you live here as well?
Sona: Not really, I live near here, but I come here to spend my day a lot. So in a sense, I live here.
Koneko: Hi, Koneko.
Erza: Goodness, she is so cute, can I caress her? *Koneko hisses* Guess not.
Kuroka: Nyaaaa~ The house is getting livelier and livelier, this cat likes it~ Hello, Erza, I am Kuroka.
Erza: You're a nekomata?
Kuroka: Nekoshou, get it right, Erza.
Erza: Right, sorry, Nekoshou, this is a rare sight, as I remember, Nekoshou are really hard to find, those traffickers will pay a lot to have some information about a Nekoshou.
Kuroka: Ohh~ Am I really that famous~? Guess we can make some money out of that, fufufu~
And the introduction goes on and on, Erza introduces herself to everyone in the house. And when she is distracted, Grayfia brought the cake in, her favorite strawberry cake with her face on top of the cake
Arto: Everyone, the cake has arrived, let us enjoy this celebration to the fullest to welcome a new member of the family. Erza, would you do the honor and cut the cake?
Erza: Yes, Arto
Erza turns around and looks at the cake as tears start to flow out of her only eye, she tries her best to regain composure and take the knife to cut the cake but couldn't, her emotions are out of control now as her cries get louder and louder.
Erza: Thank....Thank....*sniff*....Thank....you....*sniff*....all....soo....so....so...*sniff*....much.....
Seeing this, Rias takes the first step and hug Erza, follow by Akeno and Robin
Rias: Calm down, my sister, this is not a dream, not a dream....
Akeno: ....This is real life, a reward, for your strong will....
Robin: ......your struggle, to strive out of the chain.....
Nami and Albedo then joins the hug as well
Nami: You have been through a lot, this is what you deserve
Albedo: You'll never be alone again, you have us now, as your family.
One by one, everyone joins the group hug with encouragement for Erza, whose cries get louder with each person joining the hug. The last person join the hug is myself
Arto: Everything will be alright, Erza, we are her for you, always, all the way till the end of time.
After a while, Erza seems to have calmed down, still sniffing but now she can firmly hold the knife with a red teary eye. She then gets closer and closer to the cake and cuts it, sealing her entry to the family of Arto Abyssgard.
Erza: Thank you, everyone, I don't know what to say, I never thought I could have a family like this, a loving family like this, I...I...I...
Arto: We get it, Erza. Now, enjoy your favorite treat. We'll prepare the presents for you
Erza: Prese....present? There are presents as well?
Arto: Of course, what is a party without some present, to greet you into a new life, a new chapter, a new beginning. So that you can leave all that pain behind, and move on.
Erza: I see, I don't know what to expect, but thank you so much, everyone. It means so much to me.
One by one, the presents are given to Erza in her surprise, appreciation and happiness of the girl. But the last one will always be the best
Arto: Erza, this is my and Sona's present for you
I said as I gave her a small box. When she opens it, she was in awe
Erza: This is....This is....
Arto: Yes, a new eye, Sona and I made this for you, I hope you like it.
Erza: Arto....Sona....I....I....don't know....what to say....will this really work....will it bring back my eyesight?
Sona: It will, Erza....
Arto: ....And more.
Robin: Here, let me help you put it on.
Robin and Erza then head inside to put the eye on. In Erza's grunts of pain, everyone is anticipating the result, especially Arto and Sona, who are holding hands and waiting for Erza to come out.
Sona: Arto, do you think it will work?
Arto: It will, we worked really hard on it after all, you made a perfect new eye for her, Sona~
Sona: You made those incredible functions for her eye, I can't believe you can put all of those things inside an eye and it works perfectly.
Arto: I am your future husband after all, I gotta be smart to deserve your love, Sona~ *Sona giggles*
After a while, Erza comes out with Robin, who has a beautiful smile on her face, and Erza, who has her right eye closed. After an inhale, Erza opened both of her eyes, as she started to cry again.
Erza: My eyesight, it's back....it's back.....Thank you, Arto, Sona, everyone, for giving me a new life, a new chance, a new sight, I can't thank you enough for what you have done to me.
Arto: There is no need for a 'Thank you', Erza, you deserve everything here, and we will be glad to help you any way we can.
And the party goes on in a warm, familial atmosphere, laughter and cheering were heard everywhere in Arto's mansion. When the party has ended, everyone has gone home after everything is cleaned, now there are only Arto, his harem and Erza left
Erza: What a party we have today, everyone, thank you for preparing this for me, I am really grateful.
Arto: Don't mention it, Erza. Now, Grayfia, will you prepare a room for our Erza?
Grayfia: Yes, Master, it'll be done right away
Grayfia then snaps her fingers, immediately Erza's stuff and presents disappear.
Grayfia: Everything is ready now, Erza, I have put your luggage and presents neatly inside your new room, you can come and check it out now.
Erza: Wow, that's quite convenient, is that magic?
Grayfia: It is, we use magic to do most things in the mansion, so even if I am a maid, my labor is really light with the help of magic.
Erza: I see, can you teach me?
Grayfia: Fufufu~ That question should be for the owner of the mansion, the source of all the magical things you see here, Arto.
Robin: Indeed, he taught us all how to handle magic, he brings magic closer to us, to our real life
Rias: Yes, do you think there are any mages that made a spell for cooking, cleaning, washing?
Erza: No, it takes really long to make a spell, they wouldn't waste their time on those spells.
Akeno: That's it, there are rarely any spells that help us with our daily life, for making a spell is really hard and takes lots of time: years, decades,.....
Nami: ....So they focus on bigger matters than just these. But with Arto here, everything is different.
Grayfia: Under Arto's teaching and guidance, we can make spells to our liking, to our desire with only a little amount of time.
Erza: You can really do that, Arto?
Arto: Yes, it's not that hard to do, I'll teach you how to do it if you want, but there is one thing you need to promise me: DO NOT expose my teaching to anyone, and I do mean ANYONE, even your closest friend, even your family without my permission, keep it only within this family of ours. Can you promise me that, Erza? Can you PROMISE me that?
Erza: I promise you that, Arto, I will keep this secret of your teaching from anyone, even death will not sway me from keeping your secrets. You have my words. But may I ask why?
Arto: That knowledge about spell making is extremely dangerous in the wrong hands, imagine destructive spells that take decades or even centuries to make can be completed in minutes?
Erza: I see, it's too dangerous without close control.
Arto: Indeed, that's why I ask you to keep this a secret. Robin, Grayfia and I are researching a measure to deal with these spell-making formulas and it will be ready in the future. Even after the research of mine is completed, I still want you all to keep spell-making formulas a secret, got it?
Everyone: Yes.
Arto: Thank you. Now, Erza, go get some rest, I'll give you books and exercises to start your study tomorrow.
Erza: Thank you, Arto. I am looking forward to learning from you. *yawns* But I need some sleep, it's been a long day for me.
Arto: Yes, take your time, Erza. I'll see you tomorrow.
3rd POV
After bidding goodbye to everyone, Erza goes upstairs and found her room with a big name sign on it
Erza: So this is my life now, huh? Please, I don't want this to be a dream, but it's too good to be true, maybe when I wake up, I would still be in that cage, I don't know. But now, I must make the most of it, a life I never thought I could have, so that even if I got to wake up as a slave once more, I will not regret it.
Heading inside, Erza sees her room with everything in an orderly place, a big bed, unlike anything she has seen before. A big window that gives her the view of the town she is in, Kuoh, where she will live from now on. Her room also has a big, convenient bathroom with all kinds of shampoos, bathing gels and lotion she has never seen before. The room also has a table for her to sit on with a bookshelf that is full with stories, carefully picked by Robin. After letting out a satisfying sigh, Erza gets inside the bathroom for a quick shower before going to bed. As the water runs down her body, she thinks about the day, today
Erza: I can't believe I could be here, with Arto and everyone, they are so lovely and caring, I love them already, they are so gorgeous both in look and personalities. I have finally found myself a family, a loving family that shares my pain and helps me move on. How lucky am I, I wonder?
After the refreshing shower, Erza put on a comfortable outfit and throw herself on the bed, to feel the soft and smooth sensation of the bed, from the mattress to the blanket, the warmth the bed brings her, it's unparalleled, unlike where she used to sleep, cold ground with no blanket, she and other fellow slaves have to hold on to each other to survive through the night, and now she is here, in a warm room within a mansion.
Erza: I hope you are doing okay, keep fighting, keep our will for freedom alive, and Arto will come and rescue you all like he did to me, and we can see each other again.
Erza's thoughts drive her slowly into slumber.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Erza sleeping)
When the morning sun shines its way into Erza's room, make her slowly stir awake. The first thing she felt is that soft and smooth sensation of the bed she is on. Slowly rising up from her bed, Erza rubbed her eyes lightly.
Erza: Is it morning already? Huh!? Where am I again? *looks around* So this is not a dream, this is real, so I am not dreaming. I can't believe it, it's not a dream. Hmmm? What is that smell?
Erza makes her way downstairs, following that alluring smell. It takes her to the kitchen, where she sees Arto and Grayfia cooking together.
Arto: Good morning, Erza, did you have a good sleep?
Erza: *surprised* Yes....yes, it was the best sleep I've ever had, thank you for asking. I still can't believe this isn't a dream.
Grayfia: But it's not, you have come a long way to be here with us, and we are glad to have you here.
Arto: Take a seat, Erza, the breakfast is almost done.
Erza: Alright. Should I call the others?
Arto: There is no need, they are all taking a morning shower, they will come down shortly.
Erza positions herself on the dining table, and enjoys the delicious smell from the kitchen. One by one, the girls arrive at the dining room and greet Erza with happiness in their voice, like she has been here for a long time, not yesterday. After everyone is here, Arto and Grayfia serve the breakfast everyone with magic
Arto/Grayfia: Enjoy, everyone.
Erza: They smell so delicious, thank you for the meal~
Erza then starts to eat, the food's taste hits her hard.
Erza: So delicious~ I love it, your cookings are really wonderful, Arto, Grayfia
Grayfia: Thank you, Erza, I'm glad it's to your liking
Rias: So Erza, you have never been to school, right? *Erza shakes her head* How about you go to out school and study with us?
Erza: Can I?
Akeno: You can, you seem to be around our age, so everything will be fine.
Erza: But my knowledge isn't enough to study with you.
Robin: I'll deal with that, I can help you catch up, you'll be there in no time, I promise. I am a teacher after all.
Erza: I see, then, alright, I'll go to school with you girls. And about the uniform....
Rias: I'll take care of that, I have all your measurements with me, so you don't need to worry.
Nami: Now, to another important matter, Erza, we need to go shopping, you need new clothes.
Erza: There is no need, I think I have had enough.
Rias: 3 sets of clothes is nowhere near enough, you need more to choose from, especially clothes for different seasons, you can't wear your current clothes in winter. So we are heading out after breakfast.
Akeno: You 3 can go ahead and go shopping. I have a training schedule today with Tsubaki, so I can't accompany you to the mall.
Kuroka: I will train with Shirone today inside the 'Sandbox', have fun with the shopping trip
Arto: I can't go either, I have to complete my project today, and you'll be helping me, Albedo.
Albedo: Of course, Master.
Grayfia: Robin and I will run some tests on spell-making formulas counter measures in the simulation room. If you need us, just call, okay~?
Arto: Okay, I'll see you soon.
Everyone then get into their own activities
Albedo: You need to make those external mana reserves for Erza too.
Arto: I know, now let's begin.....
Albedo: This one is good, I like it, small and beautiful, a fitting for Robin, who likes it simple.
Arto: Then let's move on to Nami.
Albedo:........This one is wonderful, Nami will love this one, now to Erza.
Arto: Alright, here goes.....
Albedo: Master, what is that hidden power you saw in Erza?
Arto: You sensed it too, right? *Albedo nods* I think it's a Sacred Gear, a really powerful one, that's why I want to help her develop it, leaving it sleeping like that is a waste. It hasn't been awakened yet, but it's the thing that causes her knightly demeanor.
Albedo: I see, so that's why I could feel some knight vibe to her, even though she has never seen a knight ever in her life. What else, Master?
Arto: There is, Erza has natural leadership to her, she can spread her will and spirit to other fellow slaves, she earned their trust and faith. Together, they created a force to rise against their 'owners'.
Albedo: But spirit wouldn't be enough, they need power to break chain
Arto: That's another thing her Sacred Gear gives her, natural talent with sword art, she can handle the sword like it's her instinct, she leads the slaves and cuts her way out of the slavery....But....
Albedo: ....even talent has its limit, not to mention untrained talent like Erza's....
Arto: ....Indeed, that's why she failed and lost her right eye. She bravely took the punishment for her fellow slaves, so that they will not have to suffer from her deed.....
Albedo: ....a heroic action, she is indeed a person to be respected, then what happened next?
Arto: They isolated Erza from everyone else, to prevent her from wreaking havoc again. Even so, she is still the needle in their eyes, so they sold her for the traffickers. But she was wrongly delivered to Efioca's shop and now she is here with us.
Albedo: I see, she has been through a lot, I'm glad she could be here with us now. Those minutes of talking to her through her eyes were really valuable, huh?
Arto: Yes, it gave me a flash through her life, what she has been through and a glimpse of the power she is wielding within her.....And done, what do you think about this?
Albedo: It's wonderful, your sense of fashion has developed a lot in a few days
Arto: Really? I am glad I still have something to learn, thank you, Albedo, for helping me with this. Now come here and let me kiss you.
Albedo: Here are my lips, make sure it's full of love alright, Arto~?
Arto: You used the right code when calling me by my name, now.....
Arto and Albedo then get in a deep loving kiss. After a while, Albedo is now on top of Arto as the kiss goes on and on. After 20 minutes, they separate to get some air
Arto: Did you like it, my love~?
Albedo: Like it? I love it, every second of it. Make sure you kiss me like that in our wedding.
Arto: You bet. Now, would you look at the time, it's almost lunch, let us make something for everyone to eat.
Albedo: Right~
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Albedo cooking together)
Nami/Rias/Erza: We're home.
Arto: Welcome home, girls, go put your clothes in your room, the lunch is ready.
Nami/Rias/Erza: Yes, Arto.
The girls then head upstairs to put their new bought clothes to their room. At the same time, Grayfia, Kuroka, Robin and Koneko are also done with their works.
Albedo: Welcome back Kuroka, Koneko, how was your training?
Kuroka: It's really great, Shirone is learning really fast, she will master Senjutsu in no time at this rate.
Koneko: I'll do my best.
Arto: So?
Grayfia: The symbols are getting more stable now, better than last time.
Robin: We are getting closer to our desired result, with this, the dangers that come with spell-making formulas will be reduced drastically.
Arto: I see, now go get some bath, lunch is ready to enjoy.
Grayfia/Robin/Koneko/Kuroka: Thank you, Arto.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto spraying frosting on a cake)
Koneko: So, what is for dessert today?
Arto: some souffle Albedo and I made. Here you go. *snaps his fingers*
Erza: *Takes a bite* I'm in love, this souffle is so good~
After the meal, when everything is cleaned by magic, Arto talks to the girls
Arto: Robin, Nami, Erza, I have something to give you today.
Nami: What is it, Arto?
Erza: You have given me enough presents already, Arto, how could I ask for more?
Arto: No, this thing will be necessary for you in the future, since we are all human here, our mana pools are not as large as Rias, or Sona, our mana will run out really fast if we use strong spells or many spells in a short amount of time. So I made these external mana reserves for you, so that we will be more prepared for dire situations. Albedo
Albedo: Yes, Master.
She brought 3 small boxes in and put each one on the dining table near Robin, Nami and Erza. Opening them, they were in awe.
Robin: This is so nice, I love it, Arto~
Nami: How did you know I like this color?
Erza: This is beautiful, but I want to know how it works?
Arto: These earrings are the external mana reserves, it will absorb mana from nature, filter, and store mana inside themselves for you to use when your mana runs out. Each earring can store as much mana as your internal mana reserve. Now, put them on for me to see.
Robin: How do I look, love~?
Arto: You look gorgeous as always, my dear, these earrings only compliment your beauty more.
Robin: Thank you, my love~ *smooch*
Erza: How do I look, Arto?
Arto: They suit you really well, they give you the strong vibe of a knight.
Erza: I see, I am glad you like my new look
Nami: What about me, Darling~?
Arto: What can I say? You rock, Nami.
Nami: Aww~ You rock too, Arto *smooch*
Robin: So the mana reserves are activated now?
Arto: Yes, but you can turn it off if you want by tapping 2 times on the earrings
Robin: Got it, so the class this afternoon will still go as normal, right?
Arto: Yes, but I have to revise everything a little for Erza here to catch up with the class. Erza, here are the textbook and exercise book for your magic studying. You'll start this afternoon with everyone else, but don't worry, I'll revise the fundamentals for you to see and we'll have some learning sessions at night to help you catch up.
Erza: Yes, teacher, please take care of me.
And the afternoon lesson in Arto's mansion's living room starts with the introduction of Erza to the whole class.
Erza: Hello everyone, my name is Erza, Erza Scarlet, it's nice to meet everyone here today, I hope we can get along.
Arto: Thank you, Erza. Please take a seat besides Robin, don't hesitate to ask any question you have in mind, we will find the answer together.
Erza comes to sit besides Robin in awe
Erza: Robin, you study here too?
Robin: Of course, I have a lot to learn from Arto. In magecraft, Arto is way ahead of me, so I need to make the most of his lessons. Ask me any question if Arto is unable to answer, I'll help you all I can. Now focus, we are going to revise the fundamentals of magic.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Erza looking at Arto's teaching with high concentration)
Robin: Did you get all that? I know it's hard to take them all in at first.
Erza: It's indeed really hard, but I have gotten the fundamentals, kind of.
Robin: Don't worry, Arto will help you understand them fully tonight. There will be a lot to learn at first, but when you get through this phase, the learning will be lighter and more fun. Now, go wash yourself, we have a delicious dinner ahead of us.
Erza: Thank you, Robin.
After the dinner, Erza is sitting on the table, waiting for Arto to come. After 10 minutes, Arto comes into the room and summons a chair to sit beside Erza.
Arto: Hello Erza, how much did you learn today?
Erza: Today I tried my best to grasp the fundamentals of magic you mentioned in the revision, but the rest of the lesson was beyond me, so I focused on the fundamentals with the help of Robin.
Arto: I see, that's a smart choice, the knowledge this afternoon is quite hard. Now, tell me how you understand the fundamentals of magic before we move on.
Erza: Well.....
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Erza sitting together, studying)
Erza: I never thought it's that easy
Arto: Because it's THAT easy. There is nothing complicated about it.
Erza: Thank you for your lesson today, Arto, can you come and teach me tomorrow?
Arto: Of course I will come, I must help you catch up with everyone else. Say, how about we stretch our bodies a bit?
Erza: How?
Arto: A little sword sparring match, you and me.
Erza: Where?
Arto: In the simulation room, in the basement of the ORC clubhouse
Erza: Then what are we waiting for? Let's go.
Arto and Erza then arrive at the door of the simulation room.
Erza: Arto, what is a simulation room?
Arto: It's a construction of mine, in here, whatever you can think of can be brought into reality.
Erza: It's that powerful? We can make money here and bring it out here to spend, right?
Arto: No, What's made inside the room stays inside the room.
Erza: I see, then where do we spar?
Arto: A section called the 'Sandbox'.
Erza: Alright, let's go.
Inside the room, Arto and Erza are standing opposite to each other.
Erza: Arto, can you make me a sword?
Arto: No, you can make one yourself, why use the room?
Erza: What are you talking about? I can't do that
Arto: You can, you just need to focus, think about what you want the most, Erza
Erza: What do I want...What do I want? I want....I want to free them, my fellow slaves...I want to set them free from those 'owners' and protect them from harm.
Arto: And what do you need to free and protect your friends, Erza?
Erza: I need strength, I need power, I need....a sword.....to save them....and an armor.....to protect them.
Arto: That's right, Erza, keep going with that direction, use that emotion, use that desire, convert them into reality.....
Erza: Focus....Focus....Save them....Protect them....Save them....Protect them...Save them....Protect them...
A pillar of light appears from the sky and swallows Erza inside, a few moments later, she walks out of the pillar of light, but...
Arto: You did it, Erza. You have awakened your Sacred Gear, what will you call it?
Erza: 'The Knight'.
Arto: Then come at me like a Knight you are, Erza Scarlet. *summons his sword*
Erza then launches herself at Arto at a blinding speed.
Notes:
And so the Knight has arrived
Chapter 23: The campaign
Summary:
A dream to remember, a vision to perceive, and a possibility of change
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
Erza: Hello everybody, my name is Erza Scarlet, it's a pleasure to meet you all here, I hope we can get along.
R.B (random boy) 1: Damn she's hot.
R.B 2: That red hair...!?...Is she Rias' sister?
R.B 3: You fool...her surname is Scarlet, not Gremory...
R.B 4: I'm in love already
R.G (Random Girl) 1: Erza is so handsome don't you think?
R.G 2: She has that knightly vibe to her, I want to be bridal carried by Sir Erza right now.
R.G 3: Her demeanor reminds me of Kiba...Aruto even.
R.G 4: I want her to be my husband~
1 month has passed since Erza's first arrival in my home, she has been adapting really well to her new life. Her learning speed really surprises me and Robin, combined with her studying spirit and curiosity, she has been able to catch up with the thing everyone is learning right now in highschool, despite her base being 5th grade students. Now she can confidently study in the same class as us. About her magic studying, she is doing really well, she is willing to attend extra lessons with me or Robin even on weekends to catch up with everyone in class. I think she has fallen in love with studying, considering her lack of teaching in her past slavery years. Learning has become her new passion and hobby, I love her sparkling eyes when she successfully makes a spell using the spell-making formulas I taught her. She is like a child sometimes.
Erza: Aruto, hello, it's good to see you here, this means we can study together.
Arto: Indeed, I am looking forward to seeing your result in class, Erza.
Erza: You won't be disappointed
About her Sacred Gear, 'The Knight', I have discovered some interesting things about it when sparring with her inside the simulation room, Erza doesn't only have one armor, she has many to serve multiple purposes like
Flashback
Erza: *pushed back* You're tough, Arto.
Arto: I couldn't be your teacher without being tough. *launch myself at her*
Our fight goes on, Erza is constantly being pushed back, she has talents, but not enough. Suddenly, she threw her sword at me and jumped backward, closing her eyes. The next moment, Erza is consumed in a ball of light, after the light dies out
Arto: Didn't expect that.
Erza: You should next time.
She said as she launches multiple swords at me to get me overwhelmed, I'm impressed. As I was dealing with her swords, she soars through the air and attacks me with 2 of her swords, but I countered both her swords and her attack with an AOE attack that destroys all her swords and pushes Erza back.
Arto: Impressive, come at me, Erza
Erza: I'm not done yet, Arto.
The girl then launches herself at me again with her new armor, summoning even more swords to fight me.
End of flashback
Arto: I was in awe, that armor was impressive, I was overwhelmed for a moment, you can increase your control over the swords you summoned, they can attack more strategically and more, you know, skillfully, your sword back there was quite...
Erza: ...chaotic, I know, none of them could touch you.
Arto: Well, that's the first step, keep going, you were doing great for the first time using that armor. What about its name, have you thought of something for it
Erza: Thank you for your compliment, Arto. I'll keep trying harder. About the name, I'll call it 'Heaven's Wheel Armor'
Arto: I am waiting to see more armors of yours in the future.
Erza: You know it, Arto. *fist bump*
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Erza flies through the screen in her Heaven's Wheel Armor)
Arto: Erza, can you make me a spell based on this request on the board?
Erza: Yes, Arto *comes to the board*
Arto: Make sure to explain what you are doing in detail for everyone to see.
Erza: Got it....First, we have the request, that is creating a sword embedded with a fire magic spell out of pure mana. We will use Formula 1 and 2 to convert our desired result in mana flow like this....
Erza skillfully draws all the mana flow on the board with tremendous speed. After a few seconds, the every mana flow is drawn in the approval of Arto
Arto: Good, keep going Erza. How will you embed the sword with a fire slash?
Erza: To embed the sword with a fire slash, first, I need a fire spell, something that I made last time, now can be used in this exercise
Erza write the fire spell she made one the board
Erza: Then I am going to use Formula 8 to compress the spell into a single symbol like this.....*write the symbol*, and I'm gonna link it to a hand gesture like this *make a hand gesture* in order to activate it when it's needed. Now we are done with the spell, let's move to the sword. I will use formula 17 to shape the foundation sword, Formula 20 to create the details, put the fire spell symbol I made earlier into the mix and formula 33 to apply mana enhancing for the sharpness of the sword.....
Arto: Good, but what about the mana absorption rate of the fire spell you embedded?
Erza: I leave it at maximum capacity for embedded spells will use mana from the outside world as fuel, so there is no need to hold back on the absorption rate, for the mana used will soon return to nature.
Arto: I see, keep going Erza.
Erza: Lastly, we arranged the symbols into a circle and there we have it, a spell that helps us make a fire magic embedded sword.
Arto: Well done, Erza, you really outdid yourself today, you really know your way with a spell embedded weapon.
Erza: I am flattered, teacher, you have taught me a lot, and I must thank Akeno and Tsubaki as well, they really help me understand the fundamentals of weapon making.
Arto: I'm glad you found good support from your friend. Now, let's move on to.......
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Erza performs a fire slash with her sword)
After the class, Arto has a dinner with everyone in the mansion before getting in her desk to prepare for the next lesson between her and Arto. After a few minutes, Arto comes in and takes the seat next to his red haired student.
Arto: You did really well today, Erza. I never expect you would grow so fast like you did, not just in sword art, but magic as well, I'm glad
Erza: Thank you, Arto, I have great teachers around me from Robin to Grayfia to Albedo and you, you guys taught me everything, I never thought I would love magic so much as I do now, but here I am, absorbing everything you said like a sponge.
Arto: You're welcome, it's my pleasure to see my students love what they are studying, the curiousity on your face when I'm teaching really keep me going, it shows that you care about the lesson, you care about the knowledge, that makes me happier than anything.
Erza: It's because what you taught us was valuable and practical, I never thought I could use magic, let alone utilizing it in daily life matters. With spells, they help me clean my room, fold my clothes, arrange my books and decorations whenever they are out of place. Robin even taught me a spell that helps me dry my hair immediately after I am done with bath or shower. It's like living in a dream, Arto, where everything works by our will, but this dream is real, and you are the one that make it real for me and for us all.
Arto: I see, then let us begin our lesson tonight, we can blow off some steam in the 'Sandbox' after we are done.
Erza: Deal.
And the lesson begins.....
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the books flipping itself)
Erza and Arto are sparring in the simulation room's section 'Sandbox". The 2 are exchanging their moves with insane speed, like 2 blurry shadows moving across the battlefield, the clashing sounds of their swords meeting echoing through the 'Sandbox' creating a majestic scene where 2 knights are giving their all to defeat the other.
Arto: *smirk* You gotta try harder than that, Erza *slashes*
Erza: *parries* Focus on the battle, Arto, don't hesitate because I'm a girl *counter-attacks*
Arto dodges Erza's counter-attack and with a swift kick, Erza is pushed back by the Abyssgard. Dusting off herself, Erza summons her 'Heaven's Wheel Armor'
Erza starts summoning swords, hundreds of them and fire them at Arto like projectiles, with the intention of overwhelming him by quantity. Swords fly at Arto in all directions at the same time, trying to hit the blind spots of Erza's opponent. Arto shows no trace of confusion, he sweeps his sword around, creating a wind barrier that blow away all the swords. He once again set his sight at Erza, thinking she will be striking at this moment, but she is nowhere to be found.
Arto: Presence Concealment, Robin taught her well, now where is Erza?
Suddenly, Arto senses danger as she raises his sword to block something, a sword, an invisible sword flying from somewhere.
Arto: Now she can coat her own weapons in Presence Concealment, interesting, maybe I have taught her too much. But....
Arto then blocks more barrages of invisible swords from Erza. As the Abyssgard warrior is busying the invisible projectiles, Erza takes this chance and strikes Arto from behind. But to her surprise, Arto blocks her attack with ease. He then performs a quick jab to Erza's face, sending her flying back as the Presence Concealment wore off.
Arto: You might have concealed your presence, but your energy is visible. Even though, I commend your cunningness, giving your all to win.
Erza: *rubs her cheek*Thanks, but I'm not done with you yet.
Erza then creates a symbol with her hand sign and put it on her armor
Erza: Say hello to the 'Flame Empress Armor', now....
Erza then summons a flaming sword and launches herself at a ready-to-fight Arto.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by the chibi duo: Arto and Erza resting their backs against each other, panting)
Robin: How was the sparring session, dear~?
Arto: She did really well with the Presence Concealment you taught her, she could even conceal her own swords with the same spell, she is learning really quick, she can even apply what she is learning to practical battle.
Rias: I see, what about her armors? You said she has plenty.
Arto: She does, and she presented a new armor tonight, 'Flame Empress Armor', it helps her enhance her fire using ability, her fire sword is really devastating, it was quite hot.
Akeno: Are you talking about her fire or her.......*smirks*
Arto: Her fire attacks, of course, I was talking her fire attacks, what else can be deemed hot about Erza?
Grayfia: Many things, Master~ Many, many things about Erza can be deemed 'hot'~
Arto: Hey, we were sparring, not flirting, what do you think we did in the simulation room?
Albedo: Well, considering you two can talk by only looking at each other in the eyes, we can only imagine~ fufufufu~
Nami: Indeed, I usually catch you 2 staring at each other in the eyes when you 2 are together, you 2 were so focused on each other you didn't even notice I was there. We'll be preparing for the entry of another sister in this harem~
Arto: Hey, stop it with deciding a woman's fate without her consent.
Robin: We are not deciding, we are just waiting for the inevitable, she will end up with you like all of us.
Akeno: Now, enough talking, get in here and let me embrace your body, Arto, it's my turn to sleep next to you today so I don't want to waste any second of it.
Arto: *sigh* Alright, make some space for me please.
Arto then get in between his women, Akeno immediately takes her spot on his right and wrap her naked body tightly around him and lays her head on his chest.
Akeno: I miss this spot so much *smooch* love you, Arto.
Arto: I love you too, Akeno.
A voice comes from Arto's left side, his Nico Robin
Robin: What about me, Arto? Do you just love your precious Akeno?
Arto: I love you all as well, you don't know how much I love you. I can't imagine a life without you girls by my side, my precious women.
Rias: We love you so much as well, Arto. Now let us spend more time together in our dream. Good night, our Arto.
Arto: Sweet dream, my beloved.
They then slowly drove into slumber.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto meditating)
Akeno POV
I am here again, in Arto's nightmare or should I say a part of his agonizing past, it will be another mission to prevent my man from getting his horrible past haunting him, all I need to do is find Arto and pull him out of his nightmare. I have been doing this for quite some time now and I am confident and can navigate my way in his dream. Today my destination is not the lowest ring of hell with bleak sky and snow everywhere, the scene that appeared before my eyes is like our modern world. I am here once again in my ghost form, I have to find Arto and get him out of the nightmare he is now in. Suddenly, I hear screaming sounds from afar
???1: GET OUT OF HERE.
???2: WE'LL HOLD THEM OFF.
I spread my wings to head to the source of the sound to see a brutal but one-sided battle was going on inside a building
???3: STAY AWAY FROM US YOU BASTARDS.
???4: WE NEED TO GATHER, DON'T LET THEM CATCH US SEPARATELY.
The formations are formed by the people in each floor of the building, the women in the back, supporting the front line of men with magic against someone. The formations of each floor try to reinforce each other by connecting the formations between floors, but their goal couldn't be reached when their lines get wrecked by some unknown forces, it's fast and precise, using every distraction, every gap to their advantage. As far as I can see, the fallen angels are fighting more than one person, their opponents are moving in the dark, lurking their prey like hungry wolves. Suddenly
???: *clang*
Male 1: What is it? *Turns his head back*
His head falls down from his neck in the astonishment of those remaining.
Female 1: Stay fo...
Before she could finish her sentence, her head fell down, rolling like a ball on the cold floor.
The others panic as they scream, throwing everything they have into the dark, but they hit nothing, all their moves are futile towards unseen foes, one by one, they fall under the unknown forces. The despair starts to grow as the people think of the fleeing option, but their efforts were proven useless, the whole building is isolated, every attempt of escaping: teleportation or any transportation spell, all were for nothing, they are stuck here with the enemies they cannot see, cannot sense, cannot fight. The people are desperately keeping themselves alive and trying to fight back but everything is in vain. From one to another, they were murdered, their heads severed in the terrifying faces of those alive. The despair is starting to grow in the remainings, some have accepted their fate, letting their opponents take their life away. Even in the form of a ghost, I can't see what is going on, I can't see or sense the attacks that came towards them, I tried to venture into the dark to see who is behind this, but darkness is the only thing I see. Meanwhile, people are being massacred like cattles all over the building, hope is leaving their eyes. Now all they can do is hide and hope everything is alright, that the unknown killing machines will not find them
Female 2: Stay quiet, they might not find us here...This might end in the morning...I have contacted Grigori for help, we will be fine
Akeno: Grigori!? They are people under fallen angels care
She talks to her fellow companion like that, planting the seed of hope in their minds, telling them this might just be a dream, a horrible nightmare that will end once the sun rises. But when hope is rising, despair comes and consumes them all. A sword pierce through her chest as she was speaking
Female 2: R-u-n......
But where to? Soon, the rest of the hiding people were dealt with. With that close distance, I can see the sword which was thrusted through the woman's heart. That sword, I can't mistake it, that sword is of the standard equipment of an Abyssgard warrior. What is the meaning of this? Why are Abyssgard here, killing Grigori's people? Isn't their mission to guard the world against the Abyss? Questions start flooding my head as the extermination goes on. I try to get to find clues to support my assumption that Abyssgard Legion is behind this slaughtering of so many people here, but my efforts are hitting the stone wall, I see no trace of the Abyssgard warriors, the only clue I have is their swords, that's not enough to accuse them for being behind this brutal massacre. Doubt is starting to grow inside me, is the Abyssgard Legion really behind this? Maybe there's someone else who is using their name to slaughter fallen angels? But if that's true, why? Why would they do that?
Male 2: Please, spare us, what have we done to you?
A trembling question was heard from a man kneeling with injuries all over his body, which is exactly what I was wondering, what is their intention?
Male 2: Plea...
Before the man could continue his pleas, his head was cut off, his eyes were full of horror and astonishment as life left his body. After the last man was murdered, what is left is a deadly silence, no sound, no scream, no nothing, just annihilation. Corpses of humans were all over the place, but no trace of their murderers, which enhances their futile endeavor. The building exudes a horrible smell of blood and flesh, of death and slaughter. As I was about to mourn the people who unfortunately became the target of the unknown forces, something appears at the entrance of the building, their shapes slowly manifesting from the shadows as I have the answer for the first question: Who is behind this massacre?
I can't believe my eyes seeing Abyssgard warriors coming out of the building, there are tens of them, ice cold and mysterious, this aura cannot be mistaken, this is indeed Abyssgard, no fraud or anything. Now to the next question: Why are they doing this? Why kill hundreds of fallen angels in this building to the last person? What are they trying to do? I approach one of the warriors to see they are talking to each other in a low tone.
AW (Abyssgard Warrior) 1: What is our next destination, Captain?
Captain: Let me make a call.
The captain then takes out a communicator and call someone
Captain: Commander, we are done here. What is our next destination?.....I see, where are heading there...*clicks* Let's head to the Grigori headquarters, the climax of the campaign is there.
Squads: Roger!
And in a blur, they all disappear, leaving me behind with lots of questions in my mind. After the Abyssgard warrior leaves, I see someone approaching the building, their body is black, nothing can be identified, the person is holding a long scythe in their hand.
The person slowly walks past me while muttering something
???:Why...so...many?....Abyssgard......
The person then disappears inside the building. After some minutes, I didn't see any trace of that person getting out, so I changed my priority to Grigori's headquarters. Using the faint trace left behind by the Abyssgard warriors, I found my way to the base of Grigori to see a battle raging between fallen angels combined with their people against the assault of Abyssgard forces. Despite having more people Grigori forces are constantly pushed back by the Abyssgard, for they have more advanced soldiers, technology, magic, and a better mind commanding them all. Magical barriers are shielding Abyssgards from the attacks of Grigori's members, they are throwing everything they have towards their foes, but none of their attacks makes it to the target, they are either deflected or evaded by the soldiers of Abyssgard Legion.
GM (Grigori Member) 1: HOLD THE LINE!!!!!
GM2: We need bigger guns, their barriers are so annoying.
GM3: The leaders are coming for us, we must hold it.
GM4: EVERYONE! Azazel gave us one order: Survive at all cost. The Cadre fallen angels are coming, they are stuck at the rear of the circle.
GM5: Then what is there to discuss? Bring out all the weapons, we will survive tonight.
With that said, all forbidden weapons, magic and experiments made by Grigori are brought out to the frontline, to fight against the unstoppable forces of hundreds of soldiers of Abyssgard legion. One by one, the weapons are launched: magical missiles, destructive unstable spells, lab-made strange and hostile creatures,...... are released into the battlefield. Abyssgard forces were taken aback by the forces unleashed by the Grigori defensive line. Some barriers of the offensive forces were torn apart by the weapons of Grigori, sending the first assault back, monsters made in the lab of Grigori soon joined the battle, wreaking havoc in the assaulting line of Abyssgard legion, breaking their attacks. But those forbidden moves had some tolls on the defensive force, some of the Grigori members have died casting destructive spells, some have died from directing those monsters towards Abyssgard forces, but a victory is a victory nonetheless.
GM1: TAKE THAT, YOU BASTARD!!!
GM2: FOCUS! There are more of them, we must hold the fort till the leaders return.
Weirdly, even when being severely injured by the Grigori, no painful scream was heard from Abyssgard soldiers, they remained focused and composed, exuding the ice-cold attitude as they stood up, even with big injuries on the body like all those attacks were nothing for them. After setting up a barrier to block the attacks from Grigori's forces, each of the soldiers take out a small bean from their pocket and eat them silently, immediately, all their wounds disappear like nothing ever happened to them.
Akeno: Zensu bean!? Its healing ability is insane. So this is what it can do, reading them from Arto's notebooks didn't give me the scale of their prowess.
GM3: What's happening? How....
GM4: This is unreal, how could they heal so fast?
As the questions pile up, some Abyssgard soldiers in different battling attires approach the monsters who are wreaking havoc among the Abyssgards' line. Other soldiers quickly form a barrier, or more like a cage for a monster and the soldier.
The person approaches the onslaughting monsters with calm demeanor, despite the hostile attitude of the monsters. Attacks were launched at the soldier, only for it to be blocked by magic. The person slowly approaches the monster, swiftly deflecting every attack on it, forcing it back with their magic and skills. Soon, the monster was cornered, it looked at the soldier in hatred as it growled threateningly. But the warrior doesn't show any trace of fear, they come to the monster, resting their hands on its body. And with a spell, the monster is tamed. It cowers in obedience towards the soldier in the astonishment of the Grigori forces.
GM5: I can't believe it, they really tamed that monster.
GM6: We have lost so many men getting that monster to obey, but here they are...
One by one the monsters are tamed and change their side, from hostile abominations to docile pets in the hand of Abyssgard soldiers. With a silent command, the monsters direct their monstrous eyes at the Grigori defenses
GM7: Prepare yourselves, they're COMING!
GM8: DIRECT WEAPONS AT THE MONSTERS!!!
The lab-made disasters launch themselves at the Grigori forces, their weapons and magic did hold them back to some extents, but the monsters were not alone, they are backed up by the Abyssgard soldiers, they casted a barrier on each monsters as they barge in and break the defense line of Grigori with ease. Riding on the back of the monsters, those that tamed them lead the assault, preventing any attacks from the defenders with magical spells and also attacking defending soldiers with their weapons.
GM9: We can't hold it any longer, where are the leaders?
GM10: They are still struggling at the rear, but they are coming.
Grigori Captain: 2 monstrosities are coming from the right flank...
The captain of the defense force is barking out orders for his soldiers to keep the line alive against all the assaults of the Abyssgard and the monsters. But the defense can't last for long, people are dying and being wounded by the monsters and the Abyssgards, they need their leaders, the fallen angels. As their hopes are dropping as their lines are breaking in the silent assault of Abyssgard Legion, something appears in the sky.
Grigori Captain: This aura, the cadres, they are coming, we're saved.
The hope is rising among the soldiers of the Grigori as their leaders are approaching them from the sky. The push back is stronger against Abyssgard legion with their new gained morale, and the soldiers fight harder with enhanced morale as they know their reinforcements are coming for them.
GM1: This is our chance, keep pushing back, they are coming to aid us, we can win this.
GMs: YEAHH!!!
When the morale of the soldiers reach the highest point when they see their cadres approach them from the sky. But their spirit soon drops seeing the state their leaders, the fallen angels are in, only 3 of them could make it to the inner circle of the defense line: Shemhazai has lost 3 pairs of his wings, Baraqiel has lost 2 and Azazel has lost 3 pairs of his wings. Those 3 are severely injured with many severe wounds on their bodies, slashes and cuts are everywhere, Shemhazai even lost some of his fingers. They all pant heavily when they make it inside the defense line of the Grigori headquarters.
Akeno(shocked): Baraqiel......
Grigori Captain: Are you alright, Lord Azazel? How could you, Lord Baraqiel and Lord Shemhazai in this state? Get the healers, NOW!
The healers soon tend to the wounds of the cadre fallen angels
Azazel: Thank you, Captain, you are doing great holding the line, I'll give you that *coughs out some blood*.
Grigori Captain: Thank you, Lord Azazel. But may I ask, where are the other cadres?
Shemhazai: They stayed back to make space for us to come here, I think they are all dead by now.
Grigori Captain(shocked): Dead!? How...How...How could it happen? I thought....
Baraqiel: We are not invincible, captain, we have our limits, and the opponents today showed us just that. A few squads of those warriors were enough to take us down, the loss of our wings were the result of our desperate struggle against them.
The whole room went pale hearing the words from their leaders, even if their leaders couldn't win, what are their chances against them? The captain is only one could raises his voice
Grigori Captain: Who are these monsters? What are we facing, my lords?
Azazel (panting): Abyssgard legion, an army of devils reside in the lowest ring of hell, that's what we are facing today.
Grigori Captain: Devils? How couldn't we sense anything from them? And how could our light weapons do much damage to them?
Shemhazai (panting): They are devils, yes, they never let their presence be known to the world, they tend to stay hidden. About the light spears, we haven't known the reason yet, but it seems like it's connected to their mysterious technology.
Grigori Captain: Then why are they after us, my Lords? Why are they here to kill us all now?
Baraqiel (panting): We haven't known that yet, but there's one thing you know, they don't intend to let any of us get out of here alive.
Grigori Captain: They are trying to eradicate us!?
Azazel: Indeed, and this place is one of our last stands, if not the last stand, we have received reports from other bases, they have gone into hiding, some of them are now safe but the Abyssgards are still looking for them closely.
Grigori Captain: Then why didn't you go and hide, my lords, we still need our leaders, without you, Grigori will fall. We'll hold the line, please go and hide with others, if you could get out of this, there will be still hope for rebuilding Grigori.
Shemhazai: No, Captain, there is no escape now, the Abyssgard are after us in every step, they are the ones that forced us to come here, many circles have been formed around Grigori's bases, with only one intention, us, or should I say our heads. They have been chasing us for quite some time, because of that, they spared others members. On our way here, they shot us down one by one, chipping away our morale and fighting spirit. But at least they let others who are not fallen angels go.
Grigori Captain: So the reason you're here.....
Azazel: Yes, to end it all here, they are aiming at us, they will have what they want, but others, we can't pull them into this war any further, they deserve to live, not just to rebuild Grigori, but to not let anymore soul suffers because of us
Baraqiel: Even if we die here, others will not be affected, we will hold the line here and fight to our last breath, to make hope for those who remain.
Grigori Captain: I see, my Lords, then we will stand with you, till the end.
GMs: TILL THE END!!!
Azazel: Thank you everyone, then let us get out there and show those bastards what Grigori is all about? But I'm wondering, why is it so peaceful outside?
Azazel's words ring a bell in my mind, why haven't Abyssgard launched another attack. I take a look on the outside to see all the warriors are on hold, standing still, no one dares to move, even the monsters they just tamed, they are looking closely at the headquarters, waiting for something. Then from the back of the formation, soldiers are making way for someone, it seems it is the 'Commander' they were talking about back at the building. With the last soldiers step aside, the figure of the 'Commander' appears before my eyes
That armor, that sword, that aura, I wouldn't mistake it for anyone else, it is none other than the man I love with all my heart, Arto, Arto Abyssgard. So the commander of this campaign is my Arto. I flew out of Grigori's headquarters, I approached him and looked deep into his hood to see his face.
Akeno: Arto.....
But from his appearance, I know that man is not the Arto I have gotten to know and love, his eyes devoid any emotions, nothing but pure darkness, his face also, emotionless, cold and full of mystery. I don't know what his feelings are? What is he thinking? or what is his intention? So this is the result of the training and torment his 'Creator' forced on my Arto, he is now exactly what his 'Creator' wants, a cold, merciless living weapon that devoids any emotions. He is standing there among his troops, his mouth whispering his orders for his soldiers to hear via the secured magical line within his hood. Arto is holding something on his palms and it is dripping liquid, and it's the head of someone. Taking a closer look, I realized this head belongs to one of the leaders of Grigori, Kokabiel. With a throw, the head is now presented before the defense line of the Grigori to the defenders' horror. With a loud announcing voice, Arto speaks
Arto: Surrender now, and it will be painless!
Azazel, Baraqiel and Shemhazai all make their appearances outside of the headquarters, looking at Arto and spread their wounded wings with no fear
Azazel: We don't have any intention to subside today, 'Commander', for we will die either way, so why pass away with my head bow?
Arto: I see, then so be it.
With a wave of his hands, all the Abyssgard forces are all deployed, the Abyssgard soldiers fade into shadow, monsters they tamed launch themselves at the defensive line.
Shemhazai: PREPARE TO FIGHT!!!
The defense lines of Grigori were put in the highest alerts under the commanding of the cadre fallen angels. The forces of Arto slam into Grigori's defenses with higher aggression and brutality, the tamed monsters roar wildly as they barge in and destroy the formation of the defenders. But Shemhazai and Azazel are helping their people hold the line, boost their morale and support them every way they know from physical to magical. They are doing everything to reduce the pressure on the defense line, Azazel with his light spears launching tirelessly at the monsters and the Abyssgard troops, wounded some but it doesn't stop the assault. So he gets himself in the front line, holding back multiple Abyssgard warriors at once to keep the line safe. Shemhazai as well, his magic is illuminating the night sky, casting away the shadow the devil warriors are using to hide, to make them visible, so that the light spears and holy weapons can hit them. This couldn't pierce through the barrier of the Abyssgard attackers, but it's slowing them down, giving the defensive force more time to reorganize and reinforce themselves. In the midst of battle, Baraqiel, found himself face-to-face with Arto, the commander of the assault.
Baraqiel (low toned): Abyssgard....
Arto (low toned): Baraqiel....
Without hesitation, Baraqiel launches himself at Arto with lightning speed and a light sword in his hand, with a clear intention of cutting the 'Commander' of the assaulting side down. But his intention wasn't easily achieved, Arto quickly blocks the attack of the cadre fallen angel and counters it, and the fight goes on.
Akeno: Arto.....Baraqiel.....
Azazel: Keep them at bay, deal with the monsters first, they are weaker. I'll deal with those Abyssgards here.
Grigori Captain: Roger that, my lord. AIM AT THE MONSTERS.
The forces direct their weapons and magic at the monsters tamed by the Abyssgard, the wounds on their bodies are visible but they are nowhere near stopping, they keep on charging forward with no fear and no hesitation. Seeing this, Shemhazai gets in front of the Grigori soldiers, he casts a powerful spell that breaks through the defense of the monsters, wounding them greatly as they fell down, their monstrous bodies lay on their rider, Abyssgard tamer warriors, keeping them in place. Getting closer to their enemies, Grigori soldiers quickly end the life of the monsters' tamers with swift clean moves. But the spell did have a toll on Shemhazai 's wounded figure; he spat out some blood as he fell on his knee, panting heavily when some soldiers came to check on him.
GMs: Are you alright, my lord?
Shemhazai: I'm okay, thank you, I just need some healing.
Shemhazai then gets carried inside for wounds treatment, leaving his soldiers behind. Even after a victory, the atmosphere in the defense line of the Grigori is not getting better, they will have to fight the next assault without the command of one of the leaders, Shemhazai. They quickly regroup and prepare themselves for the next battle to come.
Meanwhile, Azazel is fighting 5 Abyssgard warriors head-to-heads and he is doing well holding off the silent warriors, with all his might, Azazel fight them valiantly, he wounded some, but it can't keep others' heads down as they keep on charging at the Grigori leader. With light weapons in his hand, Azazel skillfully counters synchronized attacks from Abyssgard soldiers. But he alone can't do it all, cuts have appeared on his body as his enemies' restless assaults have made some gaps in Azazel defense and they use it right then and there, giving Azazel a tough time. Seeing this, Azazel quickly changes his position, he keeps his distance with the Abyssgard as he launches light spears at his enemies, and as they are evading, Azazel appears at the light spear as it flies past an Abyssgard warrior. And with a quick attack, Azazel slashes the warrior in their neck, heavily damaging the warrior as the person falls on the ground with blood spilling out of their neck. Other soldiers after seeing this don't even stop to check on their comrade but they quickly continue their assault on Azazel.
Azazel: One down, 4 to go
Azazel sees that the tactic he used on the first opponent worked pretty well, so Azazel increases the scale of the light spears teleportation. Azazel initiated a rain of light spears; it didn't wound the Abyssgard warriors for they skillfully evade all the light spears that came their way, but it created a large field of spears, all prepared for Azazel to teleport to and catch his enemies off-guard. The Grigori's leader then initiates his plan, he disappears and reappears near the light spears, attacking his opponents with his weapons, he doesn't need to hit them, they just need to push them back and let them hit the light spears he planted on the ground, and he his succeeding with his plan, the clear wounds can be seen from Abyssgard warriors both from hitting the light spears and being burnt by the holy energy the spears are radiating, blood is being spilled to the ground, the exposed skin of the warriors are burning as smoke is coming out of then, combined their wounds would make an agonizing pain, but they don't seem to be in pain, they are still fighting against Azazel with all they have. But Abyssgard warriors are not stupid, knowing they can't get out of the field now that Azazel has casted a barrier around the light spear field, and the holy energy radiating from the holy spears are wounding them slowly. Abyssgard warriors direct their backs towards each other and close their distance, to the point they are now all gathered around a small space without any light spears of Azazel behind them. Seeing this, Azazel increases the pace of his attacks but it couldn't make it through the defense line made by Abyssgards, the 4 warriors stand strong against Azazel, their sharp reflections and perfect coordination make it impossible for Azazel to hit them. After that, they cast a barrier spell around themselves and take out a vial from their pocket.
Azazel: That vial, NO!!
Seeing this, Azazel knows immediately that they are trying to negate the holy energy damage by that vial, so Azazel quickly teleports to one of his spears near and barrier and strikes a heavily on it, in hope that it will block the process of using holy negating vial, but his effort was blocked by a sword from one of the warrior, the person tries to hold Azazel back, making space for their comrades to take the vial. Azazel counters that by increasing his attack power, making the barrier crack and trembling.
Azazel: I WON'T LET YOU!
With that yell, the barrier is broken, all the vials are destroyed by the attack of the Grigori leader and the warriors are blown away, some light spears were even embedded into their bodies as they stand up, and use another Zensu bean to heal. But even after that, Azazel's foes show no sign of fear or distress, they show no pain or agony even though Azazel's light spears are burning them constantly, they immediately change to the next measure without a word, they are using their joint magic to break the barrier. A magic circle is formed from their efforts and it's breaking the barrier Azazel made slowly and steadily. Seeing this Azazel knows what to do, he must stop them or at least delay them until they die because of the light spears, Azazel launches many more light spears and teleports near a warrior and attacks them with his holy weapon. And as Azazel anticipated, his attack was deflected, an Abyssgard soldier has separate themselves from their comrades and carries the mission to stop Azazel, their body is burning from the effect of light spears field, but they doesn't seem to show any trace of pain as they prepare themselves to fight Azazel.
Without a word, 2 combatants fly at each other with insane speed as their weapons clash against each other. The sound of weapons echo through the night. Even with exceptional skills and techniques, the Abyssgard is slowly being driven back by Azazel. Azazel slowly gains the upper hand against his opponent, chips of Abyssgard warrior's sword were cut off by the fallen angel, but he is still being held back from his priority, preventing the barrier from being broken by the other 3 Abyssgards. Azazel tries to teleport to the light spear close to the other 3, but his effort is interrupted by that opponent he is facing. Azazel catches a distraction of the Abyssgard, he flies past them and approaches the warriors breaking the barrier.
But as Azazel's sword was flying through the air to his opponents, it met something, a deafening sound was heard. The sword of Azazel has pierced through a magical shield, all the way to the stomach of his opponent, blood starts to flow out of the warrior, but weirdly, no sound was heard, no pant, no pain, no nothing, the warrior just stand there, preventing Azazel's weapon from reaching their comrades. Slowly, the hood of the warrior falls from their face revealing a woman's face with black hair and striking red eyes, her is being burnt by Azazel's light spear, the fallen angel can see a bright blue flame burning brightly within her eyes as she kicks him away from her comrades, she pulls the sword on her belly out as Azazel get to hear her first grunt of pain, what is left is a hole on her stomach and it's still burning.
The woman (growling): Arghhh......
After that, she takes out a Zensu bean and eats it, making her wound heal immediately. She then pointed her sword at Azazel once again without any hesitation. She launches herself at Azazel once more and swings her sword relentlessly at the fallen angel. Her skills are still refined as nothing happened to her, like all those injuries mean nothing to her, Azazel can't help but be amazed by the woman before him, she doesn't have any fear in her eyes, only determination and effort, she is not as strong Azazel, but she doesn't step back, she keeps charging with a single goal in her mind: keeping Azazel at bay for her comrades to break the barrier trapping them.
Azazel: What is your name, Abyssgard? You have earned my respect, valiant warrior.
She doesn't reply, she focuses her all on her mission and attacks Azazel restlessly with both magic and sword art which put Grigori's leader in a defensive position. Her sword arts have caused numerous problems for Azazel, some wounds have been seen on his body, even his wings, the symbol of his power was injured, half of a wing was cut off when he was evading the Abyssgard warrior's attacks.
Azazel: You are indeed a brave warrior, I will honor your death.
With a swift move, Azazel blocks the woman's attack and counters it, causing a deep wound on the female warrior's body. And when she was staggered, Azazel flies to her and pins his sword into the woman's heart, killing her before she could get her hand on the next Zensu bean in her pocket. Before she died, the warrior mutter something into Azazel's ears
The woman: Aris......
Then she goes completely silent, the warrior is dead.
Azazel: Aris, I see, you have done well, rest in peace, brave warrior.
After settling the woman down, Azazel refocuses on the matter at hand, the other 3 warriors, but when his eyes are set on them, Aris's goal has been achieved, the barrier, as well as the light spear field made by Azazel were destroyed completely by the remaining warriors. But before directing their sword at Azazel, the 3 of them get on their knees, and hold a fist near their hearts as they mutter something like an death mourn for the woman Azazel just killed, the fallen doesn't interrupt their ritual as he stands still, waiting for them to finish. After a few moments, they stand up and point their sword at Azazel, with a higher killing intent in their aura. Azazel prepares himself as well when his opponents surround him......
Meanwhile
Akeno POV
Akeno: Please, Arto, stop this madness...
But nothing seems to budge Arto as he continues his duel with Baraqiel. Even with his blinding speed, Baraqiel could never catch Arto off-guard, not even once, Arto always anticipates the fallen angel's attacks like he could see into the future. Baraqiel kept using his speed advantage against Arto, combined with his signature holy lightning, causing Arto to be defensive but none of his attacks could hit Arto. The commander of the assault on Grigori's headquarters, with his mastery over sword art and magic, is blocking Baraqiel's lightning with ease and simplicity. I have seen so much it's normal to me, but I know so well it takes years with restless training to make it to this level. The fight goes on, thunderous sounds could be heard throughout the headquarters of Grigori, Baraqiel moves like a flash of lightning, constantly attacking Arto with his destructive holy lightning. But the 'Commander' deflects them all like nothing, Baraqiel decides to launch himself at Arto once again with his lightning sword, the sound of their clashing weapons making the ground shakes and deafening sound echo through the night. I can see 2 flashes of lightning soaring through the night with insane speed, the night is illuminated by their duel, I can't help but be amazed. But all those things couldn't stop my body from stopping them, I know I can't do anything about it but my body just moves on its own seeing Arto and Baraqiel fight like this. I use the lightning magic to boost my speed and catch up with the 2 combatants, yelling at them to stop.
Akeno: ARTO, please stop, come back to me, to your Akeno....
But my words didn't reach him as he was so focused on the battle at hand with Baraqiel, Arto's eyes are pure darkness without any emotions or feelings, all he knows now is the person he has to kill, the fallen angel named Baraqiel. It's like my man is being trapped inside that carcass of a living weapon, all he knows is the order of his 'Creator'. Normally, I can just come in, call his name and wake Arto up, but this time, I can't seem to reach my beloved Arto, he doesn't seem to notice my voice, or more like he heard me, but he can't get out of the prison in his mind. But I can't affect his memory, this battle has already happened, and there's nothing I can do about it. The only thing now is waiting until Arto gets out of this mindless state, by then I can wake him up and get Arto out of here.
As I was thinking to myself, the battle between Arto and Baraqiel still go on, Arto and Baraqiel are exchanging moves with lightning speed, the fallen angel's holy lightning is utilized to the fullest of their ability not only to boost his speed, but also his strength and attacks power, Baraqiel launches many light attacks on Arto from many directions, almost at the same time, the explosion after that was blinding, as the purple holy lighting make contact to Arto's armor, but the Commander of the assault was totally fine, he has casted a spell at the right moment to redirect the damage from Baraqiel somewhere else via portals. After that, Arto launches many magical attacks at Baraqiel with equal speed and he disappears in a blur and they clash their weapons once again in the middle of the air, when Arto's spells were about to hit Baraqiel, he quickly deflect them all with his speed and redirect them to the Abyssgard warrior, causing a devastating explosion, from the smoke, Arto fell down the ground. Seeing this chance, Baraqiel focuses his power on a final blow that will end the destructive campaign on Grigori of Abyssgard legion. But Arto was able to catch Baraqiel mid-air and strikes him with a fatal slash down from Baraqiel's shoulder to his belly on the opposite side, Arto couldn't cut Baraqiel in half but the cut was deep enough for Baraqiel to be unable to go on with this battle anymore. With a wave of his hand, Arto summons a bunch of tanks to surround the defensive line of Grigori, they all direct their cannons at the headquarters and people defending it.
GM1: They even have tanks now?
GM2: What the hell else do these bastards have?
Grigori Captain: Put on the barrier, we can stop them.
Shemhazai (injured): Normal barriers will not do, those things are not normal tanks, they are magical tanks with cannons that shoot magical bombs. Their power can blow away almost anything.
Grigori Captain: Thank what can we do to stop them? Can't we destroy them?
Shemhazai (injured): They have stronger barriers than those of the warriors, any magic we know could pierce through those shields, but I know a spell that can deal with the power of those tanks....
Shemhazai said as he flew out to the front line in his injured state, the tanks are about to launch their first barrage on the defense line of the Grigori, Shemhazai made a spell to redirect the magical bombs back at the tanks, he needs to open the portal at the right moment, the right time, so that they can't react. Shemhazai just stands there and does nothing, he is waiting for the right moment. Arto orders the tanks to shoot simultaneously with a snap of his fingers. As the magical bombs leave the cannons, Shemhazai initiates the spell, creating portals around the Grigori headquarters, to direct all the cannons back at their sources, the tanks. And the timing of Shemhazai was right, the bombs were flying through the portal and back to the tanks at a really close distance, causing a big explosion that spread through the night, the smoke cloud reached towards the sky, the shockwave spread at insane speed, destroying everything on its road. The scene was covered in the midst of smoke and ash, I couldn't see anything. When the situation gets clearer when someone uses a spell to clean all the smoke and ash from the explosion, the scene before my eyes really blew me away, the tanks are not injured, not even from being hit directly by their own cannonballs, or so I thought. The scene was soon revealed that the thing that exploded was the headquarters of Grigori, along with all the defense line, all the soldiers and of course, Shemhazai.
Akeno: How? How could this happen? The cannonballs were so close to the tanks, how could it.....!? Arto!?
My sight direct to Arto as he appears from the remainings of the explosion, he remains calm as the his hand sign get clearer, that hand sign, I know it, it is used to form portals, I have seen Arto using them a lot when he was training with us in the simulation room, so even if the timing of Shemhazai was good, it was not good enough since Arto could open the portal in the nick of time to redirect the barrage of his tanks back to its original target, Grigori headquarters. Now all there is left is the crater at where used to be the Grigori's head base, the magical cannonballs did their job flawlessly as there is nothing left, not even a piece of metal, everything was just gone like a drop of water hitting a hot pan. I stumble back and fall on my butt seeing the scene before me, horror and fear was too little to describe how I am feeling right now, one moment, the defenders of Grigori were about to cheer for their leader, the next moment, there is nothing left of them, they just disappeared without a trace under the undeniable powers possessed by Abyssgard Legion. After the explosion fades away, there are 2 people left on the Grigori side, one is Baraqiel who is severely injured from the battle with Arto, second is Azazel who has exhausted himself fighting 5 Abyssgard soldiers, they both have casted a spell to protect themselves from the explosion, now they are all in horrible state as they lie on the ground and wait for the inevitable, Azazel has lost one of his arms, one of his foot and he only has 1 pair of wings left, Baraqiel still has all his remaining wings, which is 3 pairs, but he is still too wounded to put up a fight against all the forces of Abyssgard legion here. Arto slowly drag his sword on the ground towards Baraqiel, and he plants the sword right besides Baraqiel's face, and with a low tone, Arto speaks
Arto: You fought valiantly, Baraqiel, you are indeed a formidable opponent. Sadly, we can only go this far, do you have any last words?
Baraqiel (muttering): I'm so sorry, my little Akeno.
Notes:
A/N: To be continued.........
Chapter 24: The apology
Summary:
A late apology and......appreciation
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Akeno POV
Baraqiel (muttering): I'm so sorry, my little Akeno...Shu....ri.....I'm.....sor....ry
I helplessly look at Arto's sword slowly descending down on Baraqiel's chest, I can see tears leaking out of his eyes as the sword reaches his heart, not out of pain, but out of regret. My vision suddenly gets blurry at the sight, I can feel my cheeks getting wet, am I crying, for him, the man that left my mother to die that night, it's not him, not Baraqiel I know, but.... My hands are trembling as I reach out to him, to Baraqiel. I know I can't do anything as my hands go through him, I know I can't change anything, and this event has already happened, but I can't turn my eyes away...... I don't know how I am feeling, seeing the lifeless form of Baraqiel, am I happy? Am I sad? Am I....regret? But there is something twisting my heart that I can't quite place, my tears are still flowing down my cheek as I look into his hollow eyes, Baraqiel has died a painful death. Have I ever wanted this? Honestly, I have, I have sometimes wished he would die after he left my mother to die under Himejima clan that night, but seeing him dying now, I have to question myself 'Do I really want this?'.
3rd POV
As the sword of Arto ascends from his body, leaving Baraqiel now a cold corpse on the ground, Arto slowly stands up and looks to another direction, seeing a devastated Azazel, with only a wing left standing in fury, Arto still puts on his emotionless face under the hood as he stands up and point his finger at the Grigori leader, signaling he will the Abyssgard next target. But Azazel doesn't flinch, it looks like he knows he is going to die tonight, summoning his light spear, Azazel point it at Arto and the rest of the Abyssgard warriors there, Azazel's voice cold and firm
Azazel: Come at me you bastards
Arto and his force waste no time to come at Azazel to finish what they are here for, but before Abyssgard's weapons could hit Azazel....
Arto: HALTTT!!!
Arto's roar echoes through the night, signaling his troops to stop, the small army of Abyssgard legion stop their attempt to tear the Fallen Angel leader into pieces. Without a word, all the Abyssgard warriors disappear, including Arto, leaving a severely wounded Azazel standing there, he has prepared for his death, but this sudden disappearance of the Abyssgard left him in awe, as the adrenaline were drawn away from his body, Azazel collapses on the ground, panting heavily, now the pain hits the hardest.....
Azazel: Arghhhh.....
After a few attempts, Azazel has finally gotten on his feet as he approaches Baraqiel, now lying motionless on the ground, his hand clutching tightly on something....
Akeno POV
I watch Azazel opening Baraqiel's hand to see a crumpled photo, as he slowly unfolds the thing, I finally see what he was holding....
That's the photo of me, no, a girl who looks just like me and the woman who looks just like my mother Shuri Himejima, my flowing tears turn into a waterfall, I can't stop it, my tears, it keeps flowing out of my eyes as I lost sense of how I am feeling right now, why am I feeling this way? I suppose to hate him, hate Baraqiel for what he has done, but seeing this picture now, hearing his last words, I can't think straight anymore, he is not the Baraqiel I know, he isn't, he is the Baraqiel of Arto's world, of the reality of the past he has left behind, even if I am fully aware of Baraqiel in my world is still alive, but somehow, it's painful, too painful seeing him like this.
Akeno: 'Do I truly hate him?'
The question echoes in my mind, do I truly hate Baraqiel? If yes, why am I crying now? If not, why can't I stop crying? I remember that night, when he arrived to save me from Himejima clan....
Flashback
Baraqiel: Are you okay, Akeno?
Baraqiel asks me as I clutched my mother's body close to me, my fallen angel wing were out, wrapping around her corpse
Akeno: Why......
Baraqiel: Akeno, we need to get out of here now, it's not safe here....
Akeno: WHYYY!?
Baraqiel: Akeno....
Akeno: Why weren't you here, to save mother? Why did you have to always leave us like that? Why did you always have to go?
Baraqiel: We don't have much time, Akeno, we need to.......
Akeno: Why did you leave us? Why did you leave her?
I scream again, my voice breaking as I look up at him, my chest heaving with a pain that I have never felt before. His face, shadowed by the chaos around us, shows no anger, no confusion-only guilt. A guilt so deep that it makes me feel like I'm staring into an abyss.
Baraqiel : Akeno, I...
His voice falters like it's stuck at his throat, unable to come out, my tears drop on my mother's cold body
Akeno: Mother, please wake up, please don't leave me, please....
But it never happened, my mother Shuri never came back, she was laying there, lifeless. Sadness was the only thing I could felt, my mother is gone and there is nothing that could bring her back, but when Baraqiel touched me, something ignited, like a bomb has been triggered, my voice exploded
Akeno: STAY AWAY FROM ME!!!!! BECAUSE OF YOU MOTHER IS DEAD, BECAUSE OF YOU THEY WERE AFTER US, BECAUSE OF YOU THEY CAME TO KILL ME AND MOTHER....BECAUSE OF YOU.....
My voice cracked between my screams and sniffles, I couldn't forgive him, I couldn't see him the same way anymore, he was the one who caused my mother's death, he was the one who caused Himejima clan's pursuit on us, he was the one that caused me all the pain. Looking at my wings, my jet black wings that are the painful heritage of Baraqiel, a cruel reminder of who I am, of the reason why mother had to die today, an abomination of the hybrid between human and fallen angel.......
End of flashback
That night is still clear in my mind, every detail of it, I remember when I turned back, Baraqiel wasn't there anymore, he left us, like he always does, hatred wasn't the case anymore, my mother is what I should care about, I dragged mother's lifeless form to the ground behind the house, and perform a Shinto funeral for her.
Flashback
The weight of my mother's body in my arms was unbearable, but I forced myself to carry her to the small clearing behind the house. It was a place she had cherished, where she had prayed, offered her devotion to the kami, and performed the rituals of our ancestors. The ground was soft from the night's dew, and the air was thick with the scent of the forest-a place once alive with her quiet reverence. Now, it felt heavy with her absence.
I laid her down gently, as if any sudden movement might shatter the fragile stillness that had settled over us. My hands trembled, raw from dragging her through the dirt, but I pushed the pain aside. There were things I had to do. I had to honor her, one last time.
The Shinto funeral... The rituals she had taught me when I was younger came flooding back, though they were now fragmented by my grief. I wasn't sure if I could remember everything. I wasn't even sure if it mattered. But I had to try. For her.
First, I gathered what I could from the area around me. It wasn't much-a few scattered stones, some branches from the trees, and small, delicate flowers that still clung to the earth. I arranged the stones in a small circle around her body, forming a crude, makeshift boundary to create a sacred space. The branches I placed in a bundle at her feet, a symbol of purification, though I lacked the sacred salt to purify the area properly. My heart ached with the knowledge that I couldn't do it exactly right, but I whispered a silent prayer, hoping the gods would understand my intention.
Next, I reached for a branch of sakaki, an evergreen tree sacred to Shinto, which was nearby. My fingers brushed its leaves, and I broke off a small branch. I raised it to my forehead, bowing deeply as I murmured the words of the norito, the prayers to the kami.
Akeno: Kami-sama, please hear my plea. Watch over my mother, Shuri Himejima, and guide her soul to the afterlife. May her spirit find peace in the embrace of the gods, and may she be free from suffering.
The words came out shaky, my voice cracking under the weight of emotion, but I continued. Tears blurred my vision as I held the sakaki branch high, then lowered it gently over her body. The evergreen leaves, representing eternal life, brushed against her still form. I hoped they would carry her soul onward, to a place where she could finally find peace.
I then reached into my pocket, fumbling for something I had carried with me ever since we fled the Himejima clan-my mother's ofuda, a small paper talisman inscribed with sacred kanji. She had kept it for protection, a gift from the shrine she used to visit when she prayed for our safety. I placed it on her chest, right over her heart, where it would protect her in the spirit world. My hands lingered there for a moment, unwilling to let go of the only connection I still had with her.
The night was still, the only sound was my own ragged breathing and the soft rustling of the wind through the trees. I sat before her, knees pressed into the earth, and placed my hands together in front of me, my palms flat in the traditional prayer gesture. I closed my eyes, bowing my head deeply until my forehead touched the ground.
Akeno: Mother... I hope you can hear me. I'm so sorry. I couldn't protect you. I couldn't save you. But I'll carry on, I'll live for you. I'll honor you. Please... find peace in the afterlife. I love you...
My words were barely more than a whisper, but they felt like they carried the weight of a thousand screams. As I bowed lower, my tears began to fall freely, soaking into the earth beneath me. I let them fall, not bothering to wipe them away, as if the earth itself could absorb my grief.
The next part of the ritual was the most important, though it was also the hardest. I had to purify her spirit, to release her from this world so that she could move on to the next. I stood, still trembling, and took a small bowl of water I had collected from the nearby stream earlier in the night. It was supposed to be pure, flowing water, blessed by the shrine, but it would have to do. I dipped my fingers into the cold water and gently sprinkled it over her face and hands, whispering a final prayer.
Akeno: With this water, I cleanse your soul. May you be free from all burdens of this world, and may your spirit be light as it travels to the afterlife. Rest now, Mother... rest in peace.
The cold droplets shimmered in the moonlight as they fell onto her skin. It felt symbolic-my final act of love, of devotion. I knelt beside her again, laying my head gently on her chest for what felt like the last time. Her body, cold and lifeless, didn't respond, but in that moment, I imagined her spirit watching over me, protecting me one last time.
I then lit a small fire at the edge of the clearing, its flames flickering weakly in the dark. It wasn't much, but it was enough to illuminate the small area, casting soft shadows over her body. The fire was part of the ritual to guide her spirit into the afterlife, the light serving as a beacon for her journey.
Finally, I bowed once more, pressing my forehead to the ground as I offered my final words of farewell.
Akeno: 'Mother... Thank you. Thank you for everything. I will never forget you.'
I stayed like that, kneeling in the dirt, as the fire slowly died out. The world around me seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of us-me and my mother, in the quiet, sacred space I had created.
And when I could finally bring myself to stand, I knew something had changed. My heart still ached, the pain still cut deep, but there was a small sense of peace. A part of me believed that she was finally at rest, her spirit watching over me from the other side.
But the emptiness lingered, the overwhelming sense that I was truly alone now. Alone in a world without her, without the family I once had. Even as I tried to hold on to the rituals, to the faith she had taught me, nothing could fill the void left by her absence.
End of flashback
I left my home from that night, never turned back, it has been years since the last time I was there. The place is the painful reminder of what I have lost, what Baraqiel has brought upon us. But seeing him now, laying dead on the ground, holding the picture of his wife and daughter close to him in the last moment of his life, I don't know what to feel.....
Azazel: I'll protect them for you, my friend, I'll make sure of it. Akeno and Shuri will be safe, I promise.
Azazel tiredly stands up with the picture inside his pocket as he starts making his way to Akeno and Shuri Himejima's house, the wife and daughter of this world's Baraqiel....
Akeno: Wait, if Baraqiel was gone, then.......!?
The realization hits me like a rocket, they are in danger, Akeno and Shuri of this world. Fear hits me directly as I try to make my way to where they are. I flew up from where Azazel is and headed straight to the place of my old house, the place where I watched my mother die that day. My heart was racing in fear and horror, my lips started mumbling prayers to the gods to keep them safe.
Akeno: Kami-sama, please keep them safe, keep them safe,......
But when I smell smoke scent in the air and see a house on fire from the distance, I know something was wrong, I crank up my speed to approach the burning house, but when I arrive, there's nothing but flame, this frame, this ground, this road, this river, no more doubt, this is where Akeno and Shuri of this world were staying. Seeing the house on fire like this, I flew straight inside, I am a ghost so the fire doesn't affect me. I flew across the house, praying non-stop for Akeno and Shuri to not be in this house, they can't be here, they must have escaped. But when I flew across the living room, my prayers were in vain. The painful scene opened before my eyes, Shuri and Akeno of this world are all dead, they all have many thrust marks on their bodies. The flame is slowly consuming the mother and daughter.
Akeno: NO........NO.........NOOOOO!!!!
I desperately try to pull them out, but I am nothing more than a ghost, this is the memory that has already happened, I can't do anything about it, I shakingly witness the flame swallows the dead bodies of the this world's Akeno and Shuri, my voice stutters as my tears start flowing again, I can't save them, I don't have any ability to do so, the helplessness of the situation left me speechless, I can't do anything but look. After a while, the flame suddenly subsided by Azazel's magic, who had just arrived, he was panting heavily when he put out the fire. I watch him getting inside the house that is almost burnt to the ground, searching for any trace of life, only to find 2 burnt remains of 2 persons he promised to protect, they are all dead along with Baraqiel. Azazel kneels on the ground before 2 corpses, his gaze full of despair and pain, his only wing slumps down as she rests his hand on the charcoal ground of the house
Azazel: I failed you, Baraqiel, I should have been here sooner, I should have saved them like I promised you, I should have.......
I can see some tears flowing out of the fallen angel's eyes as he looks in despair at the scene before him, their corpses are burnt beyond recognition, they have died a painful death, both Akeno and Shuri of this world. Azazel is still sitting there, his stuttering
Azazel: I'm sorry....I'm so sorry....
He whispers his apology under his breath, his voice filled with regret, he didn't arrive on time, he couldn't save them, just like Baraqiel back then. Even I have a hand in this failure, I couldn't save them even though I was here first.
Azazel: I should have come sooner, if only I was a little faster, this wouldn't have happened...
Azazel's voice filled with pain and regret, he has promised something he couldn't accomplish, he has to bear the pain of losing his friends, his people, now the death of those he promised his dead friend to protect. I come to him from behind, I instinctively pat him on the back, only to my hand to run through him
Akeno: This is just a memory, what can I do?
I'm just a watcher, witnessing the memory of the man I love unfolds, these things, they have already happened, people have died, wounds have been dealt, I have no power to change thing, I am in no position to change any of this, I comes to Azazel and kneel down besides him, the fallen angel cadre is trying his best to hold his tears, he has lost too much to day, his fellow fallen angels, his Grigori people, now them. For a strong man like him, it's still too hard to bear such guilt and regret
Azazel: Please......forgive me......for I have availed you nothing... I have failed you....failed you all....
Looking at him now, devastated, wounded beyond healing, all his wings are gone, there is only one left, but it's tattered, injured. Azazel has become the last fallen angel there is, all others have gone, he is now truly alone.
Akeno: Is this how he felt, Baraqiel?
The question echoes in my mind from the depth, 'Is this how he felt?'Seeing Azazel like this, I remember Baraqiel's eyes that night, filled with sadness and regret, like Azazel's now, he didn't say much, but I saw his eyes, he was in pain, lots of pain. I was too angry and sad because of my mother's death at that time to see, to know how he felt. But now, seeing Azazel like this, I can't help but wonder if he felt this same way, seeing what he built crumble before his eyes, seeing the people he loves so much died, seeing himself failing those he vowed to protect, knowing himself having all the power to do so but still failed in the end.....
Akeno: Is this how you feel....f....a...t....h...e...r?
That word came out of my mouth with hesitation. Baraqiel was the one that brought mother's death. I know that, because of him, the Himejima clan was after us. I couldn't help but hate him after that night, after my mother Shuri's demise protecting me from that clan, and he wasn't even there to protect me and mother, leaving us fending for ourselves. But seeing things now, Bararaqiel's picture and his last words before dying under the blade of Arto, this burnt house, the 2 dead bodies of this world's Akeno and Shuri Himejima, I see another fate, worse than mine, a fate where Baraqiel didn't make it, resulting in his family's demise under the blade of Himejima clan. But seeing Azazel devastated not from the war, but from the weight of guilt he was carrying, he has promised his people in Grigori to protect them, he has promised Baraqiel to protect his family, now there is barely anything left, only Azazel, crumbling in the feelings of guilt and regret.......
Akeno: Is this how you felt, fa...th...er?
I think I now see just a glimpse of the turmoil within my father, what he has been through, seeing his beloved wife dead before his eyes, being hated by the daughter he loves the most, the pain he felt, I must have been severe and devastating like Azazel right now, but more painful for he lost his own family, the one he painstakingly built, but at that time, I refused to see beyond that grief and hatred, all I saw was a man who abandoned his family to death, abandoned his wife and daughter to fend for themselves, I didn't look further than that, into how he felt.
Akeno: Is this how you felt, father?
Looking at the burnt corpse of another version of myself lying lifeless on the ground beside her dead mother, I just realize how lucky I am, I was able to walk this world because he came to save me. If not, my fate would have ended up like these 2, dying a painful death. If Baraqiel didn't make it, I would have died with my mother under Himejima clan's blade
Akeno: Why didn't I see this, father? Why did it take so long for me to see that the reason why I am still alive to this point was......because you came for me......
The death of Akeno and Shuri of this world rang a bell inside me, I have been living the on the life my father saved, only to hate him, resent him for not coming on time to save my mother, I have been taking his effort for granted, things could have been so much worse if he didn't come on time, or even died before he could come like what happened here, in Arto's old world. I was a lucky child, an ungrateful lucky child, he came to save me, but I didn't appreciate it, I even yelled at him, scolded him, threw all the hatred that should have been for those who kill mother towards the one who saved my life
Akeno: What was I thinking? I should have thanked him, not......
The more I think about it, the more stupid I feel about myself. Not only have I pushed my only family away, I have been carrying this resentment for years for the person who saved my life only because he didn't arrive on time to save my mother. I was the one that tore my own family apart, not him, never him. And all these years I have been blaming him for something I did, never once I felt grateful to him about what he has done to me, about him saving my life, I clinged to my hatred and resentment over something that was out of his control to push him away from me, and broke our family into pieces
Akeno: How could I be so blind?
I can feel my tears flowing out of my eyes as I kneel down the ground, my hands covering my face as I sob, I should have seen, I should have known, I should have listen, Baraqiel, he came for me, he saved my life, only for me to push him away, resent him, hate him for his effort, I have taken the life he saved for granted blinded by my grief and pain, but I shot those negative emotions that were meant for those that killed my mother, towards the man that save MY life.
Akeno: So that's why you left me, father? You couldn't recognize your daughter anymore, all you saw was an ungrateful child yelling at you in anger even after you saved her life...
Seeing Azazel kneeling before the Shuri and Akeno of this world, the people he promised his dead friend to protect, I can see how Baraqiel must have felt, maybe even worse than Azazel, for Baraqiel lost the family he built, he tried to save what's left, me, but I distanced myself from him and blame him for what happened. Knowing this now his pain, his turmoil and his feelings, I know I must atone my sin, heal the wound I caused to him, but will he listen to my apology? Will he ever forgive me for what I've done? Does he even see me as his daughter anymore? Questions are swirling inside my mind, Baraqiel, father, I want to make this right, I was wrong about you and your action, I shouldn't have taken your effort so lightly, taken the life you saved for granted like I did back there
Akeno: I....so....so....sorry, father, I was wrong, I was so wrong about you, about what you did to me. I didn't look further than my narrow sight, I didn't see your pain, your effort, your love for this ungrateful daughter of yours. I don't know if you are able to listen to my confession, but I'm sorry, father, for all that I've done, to you and to our family, I'm so sorry for tearing it apart out of grief and anger, hatred and pain, it's my fault we're apart. Please, forgive me father for I have sinned, not just to you but to our family.
As I was saying my confession, I suddenly fell down a vortex, my eyes are still wet, my legs are still lump, my mouth is still mumbling the apology I should have told him years ago, now all around me is darkness, I am falling down, leaving the mourning scene behind me, I don't know where I am falling, but I know for certain that I must find father and tell him how grateful I am to him for his effort and how sorry I am for what I had done to him, even if he rejected me, even if he hates me, I must say it out, for he deserves it, more than anyone, a sincere apology and thank from his childish, stupid, ungrateful daughter.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Akeno falling down the void)
3rd POV
Akeno wakes up on her bed beside Arto, the journey through Arto's memory is still clear in her mind, she can feel her eyes are still watery, her nose is running, her body is soaking wet due to her sweat as she lets out some sniffles.
Akeno: Father, I'm so sorry.....I'm so sorry.......for all that I've done....
From beside her, Arto wakes up hearing her sniffles, he turns to her with a worried look
Arto: Akeno darling, are you okay? Why are you crying?
Akeno: It's nothing Arto dear, just some enlightenment from my journey in your dream.
Arto: So that's why I didn't see you in the dark arena with others, you wandered off on your own into my memory again, but what did you see?
Akeno: A lesson, Arto, I saw a lesson, and it has changed my view, now I know what I must do.
Arto: You should start by taking a bath, you are looking really sweaty there
Akeno: But don't you like it~? Seeing your love's naked, sweaty body like this?
Arto: I love it, but still, a bath is needed to make you fragrant and clean.
Akeno: If you say so, will you join me~?
Arto: You go ahead, I need to wake these sleeping beauties up
Akeno nods to Arto before planting a kiss on his lips and gets out of bed and goes to the bathroom, leaving Arto with the other women of his. When the door of the bathroom was closed, Arto casts a sound proofing barrier around the bed as other women wake up
Rias: It seems your method worked, Arto dear.
Robin: Akeno looks more relieved after that dream, I think her turmoil have been solved
Grayfia: And from what we saw, Akeno might has things sorted out in her mind about her relationship with her father
Albedo: She has been holding this hatred for long enough, I'm glad she could get things through, let's just hope their relationship would be mended after this point
Nami: How did you know about all this Arto? How did you know Akeno has such a problem with her family?
Arto: It was from my first date with Akeno, I saw there are a lot of hidden turmoils behind her smile. Her eyes reflect her inner strugglings, her calm demeanor couldn't hide those matters forever. After that night, I asked Rias about it and she told me about Akeno's past with her father, Baraqiel.
Rias: I tried to help her get things through a lot throughout our time together, but no matter what I said, Akeno refused to look otherwise and still maintained her opinion about her father, seeing him as the person who brought her mother's demise. But I think everything will be different from today when she starts to see things differently.
Albedo: But what about Baraqiel? Has he ever tried to talk things through with Akeno? Or did he just leave her be like this with all her inner turmoil? If he truly loves her daughter, he should have talked to her and resolved their conflict
Rias: He tried, of course he tried, he reached out to me a few years ago with a clear intention of mending their family, I still maintain a connection with him till this day to update him about Akeno's health. He cares about Akeno, a lot in fact, but he is not a man of words, he doesn't know how to express his feelings for her, so their talks have always ended up in silence as they walked away from each other, making their relationship fall apart faster.
Grayfia: Master, I want to ask you something, did you really....?
Arto: Yes, Grayfia, I killed Baraqiel, along with all of fallen angels back in my world, the only fallen angel alive was Azazel as far as I could remember
Robin: Is it the 'Fallen Massacre' you mentioned in your notebook? But you only wrote its name
Arto: Indeed, because I don't take pride in that matter, my legion and I killed countless people that night, innocent or not, they were all our target, especially the fallen angels, they all died that night under the blade of Abyssgard legion
Nami: What is the reason behind it?
Arto: To serve the plan of the legion's leader at that time, Aru Abyssgard, my 'Creator'. His plan was to take over the supernatural world, and he must take out any enemy that stood in his way to the highest place.
Nami: So fallen angels were the threat to the plan of your 'Creator'? Or more like they are the smallest threat in the plan, Heaven and Hell both hate fallen angels, so they wouldn't even bother bringing their massive armies to assist the Fallens, they would just let them die out fighting your legion.
Arto: That's one smart deduction Nami, but that's not the case. The reason why Heaven and Hell didn't assist the Fallen Angels was because they were at war against each other that time, they didn't have time and strength to bother the life and death of the faction they both hate. So the Fallens Angels and their subordinates were left to die, for no one cares about them, so their demise wouldn't stir anything with the ongoing war between Heaven and Hell
Robin: Then what threat did they pose against your legion? Why targeted them?
Arto: Because they hold one secret, the secret that if let out could bring the demise of Abyssgard legion: they know we Abyssgard were the one behind it all, ignited the war between Heaven and Hell and have been thriving by the war
The women gasp in astonishment hearing it
Nami: Your legion sold weapons, didn't it? To both sides, for them to kill each other more quickly and efficiently, so that Aru could get his hand on the highest place when both sides are too weak to resist your legion, now I know why there are so many weapons blueprints in your notebooks what are made specially to kill devils and angels.... But how could they make their way into the war without either side knowing Abyssgard was the one making them?
Grayfia: That's because they all don't have any seals or labels signaling where they were made....They are just anonymous weapons floating in the market, and in the midst of war, they proved their worth on killing the other side's people far better than anything each side could provide, and so they were bought, used and even abused by Heaven and Hell to win this war, not knowing they are enriching the third side, that's Abyssgard.....
Robin: But how did you keep the war going? I mean at one point, they will notice that the war is taking them nowhere and they will stop due to severe damage on both sides. But if they are not weakened enough for your legion to take on them both, what would you do?
Arto: That's when I come in to the scene, I was trained, tortured and twisted into a living weapon by my 'Creator', it took him almost 2000 years to make me the thing he wanted me to be, a mindless, emotionless, and unstoppable weapon that could carry out all his order without any hesitation, resistance and failure. I killed many people from both sides in the mask of the other. I killed devil nobles in the disguise of an angel warrior, I killed high-class angels in the mask of a devil general following my creator's order, I was the one keeping the war going by murdering important individuals from both sides when they reached some agreements in the peace treaty, and so the war went on in the rage and hatred of both sides, helping Abyssgard selling more and more weapons, killing more people, taking my 'Creator' closer to his ambition
Rias: But why didn't you kill Azazel? Wouldn't leaving him alive might endanger your Creator's plan?
Arto: That because we received another urgent mission back at our home base in the lowest ring of hell, killing Azazel wasn't as important as that mission, so we departed right away, leaving Azazel alive. There was a big outburst of Abyss in our home base that caused us to return to defend our home, so the campaign was called off from then, but we have completed most of the work, all fallen angels have vanished only a devastated, traumatized Azazel remained, there are a few groups of Grigori's member were alive and so Azazel led them into hiding, I never heard from them again. Weirdly, Azazel didn't reveal that secret to either Heaven or Hell, so the war between them goes on without any disturbance, even until now, I still don't know why.
Rias: I think maybe because Azazel wanted to take revenge on Heaven and Hell for not assisting them in the battle against Abyssgard, so he left them fighting like that, or maybe simply because he doesn't care anymore. But if you returned to your home base with your troops, then whose memory was that after you and your troops left?
Arto: Oh, that? I made that up.
Grayfia/ Rias/Albedo/Robin/Nami: HUH!?
Arto: Yes, I made that part up, the part where Azazel mourning at the dead bodies of Shuri and Akeno of my world, I didn't know what he did, all I ever heard from him after that night was that he led the remnants of Grigori into hiding.
Robin: You made that up to help Akeno realize her mistakes in blaming her father?
Arto: Yes, I'm glad she didn't notice that 'memory' of mine was fake, she was too absorbed into those memories to know I made that up. Knowing her relationship with Baraqiel, I know I must do something, not with Baraqiel, but with Akeno, she was stubborn, refusing to look at things any other way. So I made her look at things differently, I made her see Baraqiel dead with the picture of Shuri and Akeno of my world in his hand, whispering his last loving words to 2 most important people in his life for her to know how much he loves her. My fake memory led Akeno to the burnt house with the dead corpses of Shuri and Akeno inside to show her how things would have turned out if Baraqiel didn't come, for her to see how lucky she is to have her father alive and actually arrived to save her. I used Azazel as a tool for Akeno to put herself into Baraqiel's shoes to know his pain and inner struggles, for her to feel the helplessness of not being able to save those she cares about, seeing what she built crumble before her eyes without being able to do anything despite all the power she has.
Albedo: But aren't you afraid she would find out about this fake memory? About you fabricating all these lies? About you trying to manipulate her emotions with non-existence memory?
Robin: You're risking your relationship with Akeno here, Arto. If she found out about this, we won't know how she would react, in the worst case, she would still hate her father but her hatred would have a new target, you.
Rias: I agree with Robin, we can all see your good intention in this, but Akeno might not, she might see this like how she sees Baraqiel's effort.
Arto: She will find out about it later, but her perspective has changed, that's what matters to me, this fake memory has served its purpose, it changed the way Akeno looks at her father, she has come to know his pain, struggles and turmoil. She now knows what it's like to be in his shoes, looking at things his way and feeling what he felt. About the risk, I know the risk, but I made sure the memory is as real as it could get, she will not find out about this fake memory anytime soon, for this part is a blank in my memory so I can fill it with whatever I want. This secret will remain with us until Akeno has a proper talk with her father about their relationship
Albedo: I see, then as you say, Master, this will be our little secret to help our precious Akeno
Grayfia: If this plays out well, Akeno could reconcile with her father and solve all the conflicts they have. Still, this is really risky.
Nami: Indeed, we could keep this secret for some time, but at one point, you need to tell her the truth. Leaving it like that would be dangerous if she found out on her own
Arto: I know, I will tell her when the time is right, when she and her father have reached some points in their mending process. Now our lightning priestess has almost finished her bath, so let's go back to normal, my loves
With that said, everyone lays back on their shared bed, each woman takes her position around Arto and starts clinging to him lovingly. After a while, Akeno comes out from the bathroom still naked but much more fragrant with her perfume
Akeno: Now I know why none of you joined me in the bath. Busy cuddling without me, no~?
Rias: Sorry, Akeno, Arto's body is just too comfortable to let go
Grayfia: Indeed, the spot you left behind when going to bath was taken immediately, you didn't know how fast Albedo was flying to hug her Master
Albedo: Hey, clinging to my love is in my nature, don't judge me. Besides, Master loves his women being clingy like this
Robin: Indeed, Arto would love to him his beloved being close to him as much as possible, our time with him has created Arto's hobby for body contact like this
Nami: Akeno, come here, we'll make a spot for you, we can always take a bath again so don't worry about the smell and sweat.
Hearing that, Akeno puts on a smile before jumping onto the bed, she snuggles in between Arto and Robin, Robin wraps her arms around Akeno and places a kiss on the back of her head while Arto does the same to her lips. Arto and his harem lay there for a while, enjoying themselves in peace before Akeno breaks the silence of the bedroom
Akeno: Rias, can you help me have a talk with my father?
Rias: Are you sure? We have tried this plenty of times, and they all didn't work out in the end. I haven't made any other attempt to have you two talk to each other because I don't want your relationship falling further apart.
Akeno: I'm sure, Rias, I have seen beyond that grief and hatred, I know what I must do to set everything back to the way it should have been, even if he doesn't want to do anything with me anymore, he must know how regretful I am for what I did to him and how grateful I am for what he has done for me, he deserves that and so much more for all the pain he has been through. So help me Rias, I know this time, things will be different
Rias(sighs): Alright, I'll help you get your father. Where do you want to meet him?
Akeno: I'm thinking of somewhere warm and nostalgic, somewhere that we both know....
Arto: How about your old home? The one you left behind after that night, it would be easier to talk to him there, where you both share memories of Shuri, the woman you both love with all your heart
Akeno: But that house has been abandoned for too long...
Robin: We can use the simulation room for that, recreating your old home would be a piece of cake, all we need is your help to make it as accurate as possible.
Grayfia: You can also make something for him to eat, you know, like an old family meal with dishes you both love to find the synergy in your soul
Akeno: I can manage that, father loves mother's special miso soup, I still remember that recipe, I'll make him a really good old family dinner with miso soup, grilled fish and pickled vegetables served with white rice we used to share to have a better talk with him.
Nami: Just tell us what you need Akeno, Grayfia and I will get them for you, I know some really good fish markets that will help you improve the meal with your father
Albedo: Meanwhile, Robin and I will prepare the simulation room, we would need your review over the details of your home to make it as perfect as possible.
Arto: Then it's settled, each one of you has your own mission to make this meeting as warm and sincere as it could get.
(Timeskip: Brought to you chibi Akeno cooking with her father in her mind)
Baraqiel: Are you sure about this, Rias? The last time we talked didn't end well like the ones that came before it.
Rias: Trust me, things will be different this time, I swear it. And it's Akeno who wants to talk to you, not the other way around, Akeno has made up her mind and wants to mend your relationship with her
Baraqiel: I hope so, I want my daughter back even though I have failed her, I want her to know that I still love her and she means the world to me
Rias: You'll get what you want, Baraqiel, everything will be alright
(Timeskips: Brought to you by chibi Baraqiel standing in front of a mirror adjusting his clothes)
Baraqiel is standing before the ORC clubhouse in his kimono, the one he used to wear when he was living with Akeno and Shuri back at their old home, his hands are trembling, sweat formed on his forehead, his hand has a present for his daughter Akeno, a little doll. Arto opens the door to let him in
Arto: Such a cute doll you have there, Baraqiel
Baraqiel: This is the present I promised to get her before I departed for work, but when I returned, things were.....
Rias: ....horrible, so you didn't have a chance to give it to her.
Baraqiel: Yes, when I returned, my family was broken into pieces, Shuri was gone, and Akeno was alone, I never wanted any of it to happen, but it happened, those bastards came for her, for Akeno, all because of me, because I'm a fallen angel.
Robin: It's not your fault, Baraqiel, it's no one's fault, not yours, not Akeno's, it's just some cruel twist of fate, but I'm glad you're here today to mend your relationship with her.
Baraqiel: I'm always ready to talk to Akeno again, even if she hates me, resents me, she is still my daughter and I love her with every fiber of my being, she has been through that huge shock at a young age, she has all the right to hate me, I was the 'Lightning of God', but even that wasn't fast enough to save my family from crumbling.
Albedo: This is your chance now, Baraqiel, go and claim your little daughter back, she is now ready to have you back in her life, and I believe you do too
Baraqiel: Thank you all for giving me this chance to talk to my daughter again.
Nami: It wasn't us, it was Akeno who wanted to talk to you after all, you should thank her. Now, it's time for you both to heal
Grayfia: Please follow me, Baraqiel, let me show you where your daughter is waiting
Baraqiel stands up and follows Grayfia through a portal that leads to where Akeno is waiting.
Baraqiel POV
The moment I landed, Grayfia was gone, but my eyes were drawn into seeing the nostalgic scenery
Baraqiel: This road, stream, this smell, this....has been too long
I walk along the familiar earth road where Shuri, Akeno and I used to walk when we were together, the smell of the grass, the cool wind breezes, the chirping birds, they are all too familiar, too 'home' for me. I can see from afar a lonely Japanese traditional house standing tall, my home, our home.
Baraqiel: How come it looks so.....new?
The house wasn't as I expected, I thought it would be covered in plants or even collapse through time, but this is like nothing has ever happened, like the tragedy never came and his family was still whole. I walk to the house, the closer I get, the more memories flow back into his mind, when Akeno, Shuri and I still enjoy our peaceful life here with no worry, no pain and no burden. Getting closer to the house, I smell the familiar and captivating fragrance, Shuri's miso soup. It has been too long, far too long since the last time I got to taste my beloved wife's miso soup. Standing before the house, I take out my shoes and get inside, the interior of the house is exactly like how I remember it, the fragrant wooden floor, the warm wallpaper, the pictures, the vases, the garden, everything was the same. But what captured my attention was the kitchen, where all the beautiful smell came out.
Akeno: Father, you came, please take a seat, your meal will be ready shortly
'Father', the word that I have been craving to hear for so long from Akeno, was spoken in such a light and warm tone that I never expected to be able to hear again after everything that happened between us. The word was like a bonfire warming my heart, soothing my soul and lifting my spirit. It has been too long from the last time she called me 'Father', I still remember her little innocent face, beaming with happiness and and joy when she asked me to buy her a doll on my way home, and I did, but before I could give it to her, tragedy was upon us, taking everything I love away from me, Shuri, Akeno, they were gone in their own way. From then on, my talks with Akeno weren't pleasant at all, I have gotten used to her calling me by my name instead of 'Father', but hearing this now, I can't feel any happier, it means she has accepted me back into her life as a father and not as the person who brought her mother's death.
I take a seat at the table, the usual table we used to share our meal back then, the round, wooden table that fits 3 people, I can see the little Akeno sitting at it, being fed by Shuri as we enjoy our night together, this table, combined with the miso soup smell bring back a lot of memory, a lot of nostalgia from the time we were all happy. As my mind was running, Akeno presented the dishes before me, white rice, pickled vegetables, grilled fish, and of course, Shuri's special miso soup. The smell of the miso soup hits my nose like a rocket, I looks into the bowl of soup to see Shuri, my beloved wife, this is exactly like what she used to make us, I can feel my tears leaking out of the corner of my eyes
Akeno: Father, are you alright?
Baraqiel: No, dear, everything is fine, it's just....I miss this miso soup so much
Akeno: We both miss it, father, I haven't made this for a while because it reminds me of mother, but it seems I haven't lost my grip on this dish
Baraqiel: No, you haven't, Akeno, quick, come and enjoy this wonderful meal with me
Akeno: Yes, father
Akeno quickly gets to the table with her own food before we start eating together, the crispy skin and tender meat of the fish, the sour sweet taste of pickled vegetables, the fluffy white rice and the taste of the miso soup, this has to be the best meal I have ever had in a long time, not to mention it came from my daughter.
Baraqiel: I wish you were here with us, Shuri
And before I knew it, I had finished my portion, it was so delicious I didn't know how fast I ate it. I look at Akeno to see she has a warm smile on her face, it so reminds me of Shuri. I unconsciously scratch my cheek out of embarrassment, but Akeno still maintains her smile
Akeno: There are still a lot, father, do you want some more?
Baraqiel: Yes, dear, thank you.
Akeno stands up and serves me another portion of rice, pickled vegetables, grilled fish and miso soup. I quickly wipe the dish clean again. When I'm done, I see Akeno is sitting opposite to me, she looks at me with regretful eyes
Akeno: Father, I called you here today, set up all this for solely one reason, I want to apologize to you, father, for all that I've done, to you and to this family of ours.
Akeno's words hung in the air, heavy with emotion. I looked at my precious daughter, her expression sincere but filled with sorrow. The warmth of the meal still lingered in my mouth, but it couldn't ease the weight of what she had just said. He placed his chopsticks down carefully, his heart tightening as I saw the pain in her eyes, a reflection of my own.
Baraqiel: Akeno... you don't have to apologize. I'm the one who failed you. I should have been there to protect you and Shuri. If I had been faster, stronger...
My voice cracked, my hand clenching around the edge of the table. For years, I had lived with the guilt of not being able to save Shuri, of not being there when Akeno needed me the most. Every day has been a reminder of my failure as a father. But hearing Akeno apologize-he couldn't bear it.
Akeno: No, father. Please, don't say that.
Akeno shook her head, tears beginning to form in her eyes.
Akeno: You did everything you could, you saved my life from Himejima clan's assault on us. But after Mother was taken from us, I was consumed by grief. I couldn't understand why it had to happen, why we lost her. I... I blamed you, when those I should be hating were those that stole her away from us both, Father. I thought it was your fault because of what you are, a fallen angel that mother died. And for so long, that anger blinded me from seeing that you were in pain as well,
My heart ached as Akeno spoke. Hearing her say those words, the accusations she had held inside for years, made his chest feel tight. But I remained silent, listening as she continued.
Akeno: I hated the part of me that was tied to you, that shared your fallen angel blood. I thought it was a curse. I was ashamed of who I was because I thought it had taken her away. And in my anger, I pushed you away too. I made you feel like a stranger... even though all you ever wanted was to be my father.
Akeno wiped away a tear that had slipped down her cheek, her voice trembling.
Akeno: I'm so sorry for all the cruel things I said to you. For making you feel like you weren't my father anymore. You loved me through it all, and I... I didn't see that. I was too focused on my own pain. I wish I could take back all those years of hurt, of anger. But I can't. All I can do now is tell you... that I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry. Please forgive me for all that I've done to you and to our family, for being a stupid, ungrateful daughter and for being the one that made our family like this.
I couldn't hold back anymore as I hug Akeno into my arms, looking at my crying daughter now, I can feel the pain and regret in her eyes, she has been through so much pain and grief, but I'm glad she has found a way to accept this failure of a father, the one who couldn't even protect his own family, the one who left his daughter behind in loneliness and fear out of shame for my own failure.
Baraqiel: I never stopped loving you, my little Akeno, not even for a second. You are everything I have left after your mother's death, I could never bring myself to hate you no matter what, you have all the right to hate me, I wasn't there when you and Shuri need me the most, I wasn't brave enough to face my failure as a father and a husband, I'm sorry, Akeno, I'm so sorry. Please forgive me for being a horrible father
Akeno: You have nothing to sorry about, father, you did your best to save me and mother, it's only me who didn't see your effort, I have taken the life you saved for granted, only to hate you for something out of your control, I could never forgive myself when I realized that the reason I was able to be here was because you came to save me, but I threw all that hatred at you for no reason.....
Baraqiel: I could never forgive myself either, I was the 'Lightning of God', yet I wasn't fast enough to save the 2 people I care about the most, I failed you both, Akeno, Shuri, as a father and as a husband....
We went silent for a while, just looking into each other's eyes, our souls are opened bare for the other to see, I can see how she struggled all these years with the lost of Shuri with no one by her side until Rias came along, giving her a family where she was loved and cherished, something I failed to give her. If she is willing to take this father back into her life and family, I will gladly open up for her, like a father should do for his daughter
Akeno/Baraqiel: Will you....forgive....me?
Our voices were in sync asking the same question, our eyes widen hearing the question of one another, but we didn't stop
Akeno/Baraqiel: Yes,....I....forgive you...so that....we....could be....family....again....
Our words hung in the air, breaking the last wall between us, we have come to understand what the other has been through to share, to empathize, and to forgive, we could finally become a family again
Baraqiel: I love you, Akeno, nothing can and will be able to change that, you are my precious daughter and my only family left. Thank you for accepting me into your life again
Akeno: I love you too father, for not giving up on me, for never stopping loving me, it takes me years to realize that, but now I know how much you care about me, how much you love me and I will cherish that. Thank you father, for giving your all for me and mother
3rd POV
As they broke their hug, Baraqiel reaches inside my pocket to get something for Akeno, something he has been waiting for years to give her
Baraqiel: Akeno, I have something to give you
Akeno: What is it, father?
Baraqiel gifted Akeno a little doll, it's contained inside a box that has been tattered through time, but the doll inside is still good as new. Akeno's eyes widen seeing the doll, it has the black hair, and is wearing a red kimono
Baraqiel: I promised you this, remember? I bought you this on my way home, but that day.....
Akeno: I see, father. Thank you, thank you for this gift, I can't believe you have been keeping it after all these years for me. I'll treasure it with all I have
Akeno said as she hugs the doll close to her body as her eyes get teary again, knowing how much her father cares about her, how much he loves her. Baraqiel moves closer to his daughter and brushes away her tears
Baraqiel: Don't cry my dear, you have nothing to cry about, it's a gift to make you happy, not make you sad
Akeno: I'm not sad, father, not at all, I'm happy, more than words could express. After all these years, you still remember your promise with me, you still keep it safe and new for me, and here I am....
Baraqiel: I know, I know, Akeno, you're regretful, but it's all in the past, we have understood each other now, and we can be a family again, let this doll be a mark of our reunion, okay?
Akeno: Yes, father, let this be our new beginning.
Akeno hesitates for a moment before
Akeno: Say, father, would you care to join me for a trip?
Baraqiel: Where do you want to go, Akeno? I'll be with you all the way
Akeno: Mother's grave, I want to visit it again, to tell her our family is back
Baraqiel: I would love that, Akeno, let us go
With that said, Akeno leads her father out of the house as she snaps her finger, suddenly, everything around disappears, leaving a blank room, with a door. Getting out of the room, Akeno and Baraqiel see Arto, Rias, Robin, Nami, Albedo, Erza and Grayfia are looking at them
Arto: So?
Akeno: We have talked things through, darling~ Now we are heading out, a little date you could say~
Baraqiel: Arto, yes? We're talking when I come back, I want to know more about the person my daughter fell in love with, and this room as well
Rias: You don't need to worry, Baraqiel, Akeno is in good hands, Arto will be the son-in-law you expect. About the simulation room, it's really interesting
Robin: Now, now, you two have a date, right? Go on, we are preparing the dinner
Nami: Yes, you two need more time to catch up with each other, all these years are too much for both of you
Baraqiel and Akeno then leave the clubhouse and head to their old home, where Shuri's grave is, as they were flying in the air, Baraqiel turns to his daughter
Baraqiel: So all those scenes were simulation?
Akeno: Yes, father, all simulation, I want to create something familiar for both of us so that our talk could be smoother, I really want to go back to you to become your daughter again.
Baraqiel: I see, thank you for going to such length for me, and I must say it worked really well. But I still gotta ask you, Akeno: What changed you, dear? What caused you to shift your opinion about me? You have always been so hateful towards me
Akeno: I saw a worse fate, much, much worse fate. I saw a reality where you didn't make it, you couldn't come to save me and mother....
Baraqiel's eyes widen hearing what Akeno's said but stay silent for Akeno to continue
Akeno: ....the night when Himejima clan came to kill me and mother, you didn't arrive, or more like you couldn't arrive, you were stuck in a desperate battle against an enemy you couldn't defeat, and with my eyes, I saw you, or another version of you died under the blade of your enemy. What haunted me the most was that Baraqiel's last words, ' I'm so sorry, my little Akeno...Shu....ri.....I'm.....sor....ry' and the picture he clutched in his hand before dying, the picture of a little girl who looks just like me and a woman who looks just like mother, even in his last breath, that Baraqiel....
Akeno's words stuck at her throat, not being able to come out, Baraqiel could hear his daughter sniffles, he flies closer to her
Baraqiel: It's okay, dear, I'm here, well and all, not dead and still be able to love you
Akeno: Thank you, father, but there is more to it. In that reality, with your death, Akeno and Shuri of the world were vulnerable against Himejima clan, and they couldn't survive, they all died in their home....
Baraqiel's eyes widen hearing what happened in another world, another reality
Akeno: That's when I know how lucky I was, you came for me, saved me, unlike the other Akeno, who died a painful death without anyone protecting her. Reflecting on my actions, I saw how ungrateful and blind I was, I shot all my grief and pain at you for no reason. I hated you even after you saved my life....
Baraqiel: Akeno...
Akeno: Seeing that memory taught me a lesson, that I should be cherishing what I still have instead of mourning what I have lost. I'm lucky you're still here with me, I'm glad you still love me as your daughter, and I will not let anything take that away from me ever again.
Baraqiel: I see....
And the fight goes on until they reach their old home, the mark of time is visible across the house, Akeno and Baraqiel make it to the back of the house to see a little grave covered in plants and grass, her grave, Shuri's grave. Akeno and Baraqiel both kneel before the grave and start cleaning it delicately
Akeno: Mother, I'm so sorry....
Baraqiel: ....for taking too long to come and visit you....
Akeno: ....your death has taken a great toll on us....
Baraqiel: ....and life has not been the same without you for us both....
Akeno: ....but we're here now, as a family again....
Baraqiel: ....so you can rest well, for we will look after each other when you're gone, so you won't have to worry about us too much
After the grave was clean, Baraqiel and Akeno sit down together before the grave
Akeno: We are now family once more
Baraqiel: This time, nothing could break us apart
Notes:
This will the the last chapter I write this way, changes will come
Chapter 25: The project
Summary:
The mending and a tint of broken trust
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Baraqiel and Akeno are sitting together near Shuri's grave, sharing silent family time together, no word was said, but they know they are together again, as a family, the wind cold breeze brushes through the air, but it couldn't break the warmth Akeno and Baraqiel are sharing, they just sit there, enjoying the setting sun along with the women they both love, Shuri Himejima, "Isn't it beautiful? How long has it been? I wonder." Akeno thinks to herself, "I hope you're here with us, Shuri, just like old time" Baraqiel makes his wish as he look at the grave of his beloved wife
Their minds both drive back to the pleasant memory of their family, a cool, relaxed afternoon witnessing sunset, chilling over cups of tea and some light snack made by the late mother and wife. Without them knowing, a string of tears started flowing down their eyes, "I miss you, mother/Shuri" their minds rang in sync as the image of the mother and wife reappeared inside their mind.
When the sun is fully set, Akeno turns to her father to see him crying, she comes to him and wraps her arms around her father. Baraqiel wraps his daughter tightly in his arms "Akeno.... I never know how much I need this, thank you, my dear.", in reply, Akeno mutters "Father.... I never thought I would need you so much in my life, but now I know, I want you back in my life, don't please never leave me again, father.". The fallen angel places a kiss on his daughter's cheek and reassures her "I will never, my little Akeno, never again."
They break the hug as Akeno and Baraqiel both brush away their tears, but there are still some sniffles lingering back on the 2's faces, Baraqiel asks his daughter "Shall we leave, Akeno? I think we're leaving everyone at your home waiting". Hearing her father's offer, Akeno giggles teasingly "If you're hungry, you can just say it, father, I don't mind making another pot of Miso soup"
Baraqiel blushes before his giggling daughter "Well....maybe a little...." he tries to remain composed, but fails miserably. Akeno's giggles turn into a light laughter as she stands up and offers her hand to her father "If you say so, father, I'll make another pot of Miso soup for you". Baraqiel takes his daughter's hand and stands up. They take another look at Shuri's grave and make a promise in sync "We'll come visit you again, I promise", the 2 then take to the sky, Baraqiel looks at his daughter to see her wings are out, one of devil and one of fallen angel. Curiosity gets the better of him as he asks "Aren't you afraid of it, Akeno? That fallen angel's wing, my heritage, the thing you have always wanted to get rid of?". Akeno looks back at her wings and her father and puts on a sad smile "I used to hate it, yes, but now, I don't see the reason why I should despise it, this wing is the reminder of you, father, a strong, resilience man who saved my life always loves me and never gave up on me no matter what, how can I hate it now?"
"I see... I'm glad you have gotten through it all" Baraqiel says as he felt the warmth in his heart, he never thought they could mend their relationship, after all that happened, but now, they are healing, both of them. Out of nowhere, Akeno takes her father's hand "I've always wanted to do this with you since the first time I discovered my wings as a little girl, I have had many images in my mind about soaring through the sky like this with you" Akeno tightens her grip on his hand as they fly together, Baraqiel looks at his daughter who is enjoying the experience "I'm glad I can help you enjoy yourself, I never thought you like these kind of simple fun". Akeno replies "How can you call this simple fun, father? Not all kids gets to do this with their parents so freely, especially those with parents that are unable to fly like this, this is a type of luxury you know, even Arto couldn't give me something like this, he is a human after all"
Baraqiel's eyes widened hearing this "Human!? That Arto boy you love is a human?" Akeno listens to her father's surprised words and replies "Yes, father, Arto is a human, what do you think he is?", "I thought he is a devil, high-class one even considering the power I sensed from him and how well he hides his strength" the fallen angel makes his guest in his daughter's amusement "No, father, Arto is a human, but his strength is indeed inhuman, I never saw any human as strong as him, both in body and mind. And he has proven it again and again so I have no doubt about his power, he even defeated Phenex clan's leader Razer in a one on one battle".
Baraqiel nods knowingly "So it wasn't a low-class devil defeating that arrogant chicken, but a human? He would be in a sea of shame if he knew this", Baraqiel puts on a smile and says "Guest I can entrust your safety into that boy's hand, is there anything else about him I need to know?" His voice full of excitement about his daughter's boyfriend, Akeno can clearly see that as she continues "He isn't just my boyfriend, father, he is my teacher and trainer as well, he is the reason behind my improvement in lightning magic, you wanna see?" she asks, Baraqiel lets his daughter's hand go in anticipation "First person home will get the other's dessert, how does it sound, Akeno? Let's see how you fare against 'Lightning of God'" the father shows a challenging smile to his daughter, Akeno doesn't falter as she prepares herself "Look like I'll have to spare some space in my stomach for another serve of dessert.". And in a flash, Akeno and Baraqiel both launch with their lightning speed, leaving behind a 2 loud thunders.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by 2 light flashes soaring through the sky)
Arto POV
As I was reading in the living room, I heard 2 loud thunders outside of the house, getting my attention, I came out to see what happened, and my eyes caught Baraqiel and Akeno standing side by side in front of the house. I come to them to see they are both panting, "You did really well, Akeno, you were faster than I thought, but I guess I won your dessert today" Baraqiel talks between his breathes, "I guess you did, father, I'll ask Grayfia to make me another one. But all in all, you really live up to your name as the 'Lightning of God', father" Akeno pays her respect to her father, the two are still bantering without noticing me looking at them. After a while, I let my voice be heard
"What a race you've had there, yes? And it seems the winner isn't hard to spot", Baraqiel and Akeno turn to me and immediately the raven haired beauty comes to hug me with a kiss on the lips, I can see Baraqiel turns his face away to leave us for our romantic moment. After a few moments, I break our kiss as I look into my beloved Akeno's eyes "How was your date with your father, my love? Well?" I can see her eyes softened as she answers me
"It was more than well, darling, we visited my mother's grave, cleaned it and informed her that we have started our mending" she says in a sincere, soft voice, packed with many emotions, I tighten my wrap around her "I'm glad, you both deserve happiness, I bet your mother would love to see you and Baraqiel being together again". Before we could move on, Baraqiel comes to face me, Akeno gets out of the hug and moves to my arms as she holds it tightly, her hand traces down and lace between mine, Akeno leans on my shoulder as Baraqiel speaks to me "Thank you for taking care of Akeno in my absence, you have taught her well with her lightning magic, she was able to catch up to me at some point, I'm impressed" his voice filled with gratitude, I unconsciously scratch my cheek in embarrassment "It's nothing, Mr Baraqiel, Akeno has it in her, all I did was pulling her talents out, and I must say, she inherits a lot from you. However, there are many aspects of her power I can't really tap into, especially those that related to her fallen angel's side, something I'm not really good at, so I hope you can be around from time to time to guide her"
"I see" Baraqiel nods to me "I'll keep it in mind, I want to be with her as much as I can, to make up for all the lonely time she has been through. Also, I have to keep an eye on you as well, Abyssgard, to make sure my daughter is loved and cherished" Baraqiel's voice suddenly gets really serious, which make me flinch, but before I could say anything, Akeno chimes in "Please worry not father, I'm in really good hands, your future son-in-law will not disappoint you. As for our lessons, I would love to take them with you, father. I never thought about embracing the fallen angel's side of me, but with you here with me now, I think I'm ready to see how far I can go". Baraqiel turns to her his daughter, his voice soft and full of love "I'll guide you all the way, my dear daughter, that's a promise".
As we were talking, a voice rang from inside the mansion, "AKENO, WE'RE STILL WAITING FOR THAT MISO SOUP!!", we look back to see Nami is standing at the door "Good day to you, Mr Baraqiel, would you care to have dinner with us tonight?" her yell tones down surprisingly as Akeno lets go of my arms and heads towards Nami "He will stay for dinner Nami, he wouldn't miss this miso soup for the world. So, the ingredients?" Akeno asks to Nami's excitement "They are all ready, the only thing we need is you, the cook". I can see her smile again as she turns back to us "C'mon in, father, darling, dinner is waiting for us", "Right" Baraqiel and I say in sync, we look at each other as I can see a smile on his stoic face as we head inside together.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Baraqiel sitting at the dining table, waiting for chibi Akeno who is cooking)
I can't describe how good that meal was, this was the first time I got to taste Akeno's special miso soup, and I have no words for it, I can confidently say that it was one of my most favorite dishes ever. "You look content, my love, did you enjoy it that much~?" Akeno asks me with her signature sultry voice. I replied playfully "What can I say? It's really just that good. Look at your daddy over there, he hasn't stopped eating, maybe we'll need another pot". Baraqiel looks at me after finishing yet another bowl of miso soup "Don't judge me, I'm appreciating my daughter's labor and love". Rias chimes into the conversation "Leave him be, Arto, it has been too long for him to taste this again, and I know for sure Akeno wouldn't mind making another pot for us, right?". Akeno giggles "Ohh, yes, I wouldn't mind at all, as long as you can continue eating~".
Nami rubs her belly and sighs in satisfaction "I don't think I can stuff anything more in my belly, I didn't know such a simple meal can be so delicious". When Nami's words left her mouth, Grayfia stands up from the dining table "That's too bad, I guess you can't have anymore of my special parfait, it seems I'll have one less parfait cup wash tonight" she said with a slight smirk as she makes her way into the kitchen, Nami perks up hearing 'parfait' as she calls after Grayfia "Wait, Grayfia, I can still eat, don't take my parfait away, Grayfia, Grayfia...." Nami runs after Grayfia into the kitchen.
Erza leans back at her chair, her voice full of anticipation "She is making the special parfait, huh? I could never miss it, she said earlier that she just received a new batch of fruit from the simulation room, this will be even better" Erza closes her eyes and starts thinking of the parfait. "Did she remember my order of 2 cups? I wonder" Koneko asks, "I don't think so, Grayfia will never go with such order, she is trying to keep this household healthy after all, so I doubt there will be anyone with 2 cups of parfait" Robin chimes in. Hearing parfait, Baraqiel turns to his daughter with a slight smile "Akeno?", "I know father, it's all yours" Akeno replied defeatedly but her voice doesn't contain discontent at all, she seems to be pretty happy even.
After a few minutes, Grayfia comes out from the kitchen with a tray of delicate parfait cups, Nami following close behind her and has already started eating "It's freaking good" she says, "It looks stunning and delicious as usual, as expected from my beloved Grayfia, you did a wonderful job there, love". She comes to me and places a cup on the table, along with a peck on my lips "Thank you for your compliment, my beloved master, I'm flattered, now please enjoy the parfait to your heart content" She talks in a formal, professional voice of a maid, her graceful movement takes her around the dining room as she presents the parfait to everyone before settling down on her own seat with a cup of the sweet dessert. Koneko looks at the parfait with sparkling eyes "This won't be enough" she said with excitement as she start eating, Kuroka sits next to her as she lightly rubs her sister's hair "Slow down a little Shirone, you can have mine as well,if it's not enough for you", Koneko looks at her sister "Really!?", Kuroka smiles, "Yes, really, but we share, I can't give you my whole thing, you know" Koneko nods cutely as she continues eating her own parfait.
Robin scoops a spoon of parfait and puts it in her mouth, her cheek flushes before the flavor of the parfait "You have nailed this dish, Grayfia, I can't imagine any how this parfait can be better" She said as she scoops another spoon in her mouth, "You gotta mind the freshness of the fruit as well, the new batch from the simulation room is really something else" Erza exclaims as she takes a piece of fruit. Rias follows Erza as she tries the fruit "You're right Erza, this batch is sweeter than the last one, but not too much, it's subtle but lingering, and this creamy puree and crunchy nuts really enhances the experience". As the girls are talking, I turn to see Albedo is looking at me with a spoon of parfait near my mouth "Say 'ahh', master, let me feed you", I reluctantly open my mouth to take the bite and I must say, it was delicious as hell. I take a spoon of parfait and put it before Albedo's mouth "Say 'ahh', my favorite succubus....", Albedo blushingly opened her mouth to take the piece of parfait before she takes her turn again "Let's feed each other this way, master~".
As Albedo was feeding me, I looked at Baraqiel and Akeno, she pushed her cup to her father "Here, father, your reward", Baraqiel looked at the parfait before pushing it back to Akeno "That's too bad, I can't have another cup of this treat after eating too much of your delicious miso soup, plus, I don't think Grayfia will allow me to have 2 cups of this. So, will you help me, dear?" he said sincerely to Akeno. "Well, that can't be helped then, I can't let this wonderful parfait go to waste so I'll gratefully take your offer, father" Akeno puts on a smile before eating the parfait gleefully. The meal goes on in a warm, familial atmosphere
(TImeskip: Brought to you by chibi Akeno enjoying her parfait)
3rd POV
At the end of dinner, everyone is satisfied with both the meal and the dessert, Baraqiel stands up from his seat and lets his voice be heard "Thank you all so much for having me, the meal was lovely, I really enjoyed it, but I must go now, duty calls". Hearing that, Akeno stands up as well as she comes to her father and grips his hands "Do you really have to go, father? You could stay here with us, with me, we have lots of spare rooms and all" she says with pleading voice, Baraqiel smiles gently and places a kiss on his daughter's forehead "Don't worry, my sweet Akeno, I'll be back for you, we haves lessons to take together remember? I'll be here to guide you, I promise, but I really have to go now" his voice full of reassurance and love "It won't be like last time" he said firmly to Akeno, she reluctantly let him go "Don't forget, alright, father?", "How could I?" Baraqiel mutters after placing another kiss on Akeno's forehead. He then makes his way to the entrance of the mansion, his wings spread wide, he turns back to the people in looking at him go, including Akeno "Goodbye for now, everyone, especially you, my beloved Akeno", he then takes to the sky and flies away into the night.
"What an eventful day, don't you think?" Arto break the silence, "It was, I never thought I could feel this whole after such a long time, I've had my father back to my life and it was out of any expectations of mind" Akeno speaks up, faith and affections fill her voice, Rias chimes in as well "I'm glad you've changed your perspective Akeno, this is the first time I can see Baraqiel smile, a rare sight indeed". Akeno holds the doll Baraqiel gifted her with care and longing "It's good that I changed, but I'm more happy that he didn't, still the same father, same love, same care. I just hope he can be here more often.", Robin joins in as well "I know he will come here as much as possible, his beloved daughter is here after all", "You should get some rest Akeno, you've had a long day, and a new day awaits, and who knows, maybe Baraqiel might come here again tomorrow" Grayfia hugs Akeno from behind, nudging her to go to sleep, "You're right Grayfia, I'll be in the best shape to learn from Baraqiel when he is here, and a good sleep might be a good start, but I need a bath first". Hearing the word 'bath', Nami raises her voice "Anyone cares for a shared bath!?" Her voice catches everyone's attention, Rias was the first to go with the offer, Robin follows, "I don't see why not" Kuroka chimes in as she picks Koneko up, Erza was nervous and a bit embarrassed, but soon joined the women's bath. Grayfia turns to Arto "Won't you join us, love? I know how much you like me bathing you", Arto shakes his head "You girls go ahead, I need to do something first", Grayfia nods in acknowledgement "Suit yourself, master, what about you, Albedo?", the succubus comes to her master's side and hugs him "I'll be where my master is", Grayfia nods once more before hogging all the women to head to the grand bathroom
Arto goes to his study and takes a seat on his desk, with Albedo next to him, "It's about Akeno, right, master?" Albedo asks, Arto turns to her "No, not about Akeno, she'll know about the fake memory when the time is right. It's about something else, about the spell-making formulas", Albedo's eyes narrowed hearing it "What happened to it, master? Did something go wrong, or is it another annoying bug?" she asks with curiosity, Arto shakes his head "No, we can manage and fix the bugs and you girls have been doing really well in spotting and dealing with the problems within the formulas, I'm worry about something else, the dangerous side of these formulas", "What do you mean, master?" Albedo asks. Arto sighs "As you girls keep advancing in the path of perfecting the formulas, each update batch refines, debugs, optimizes and solidify the old formulas while adds new, better formulas based on that solid background, I can't be anymore prouder of what you girls are doing, but it comes with one problem, the formulas are getting harder to exploit, to take advantage of, to defeat". Albedo raises an eyebrow in confusion "How is that a bad thing, master? I thought...." Arto cuts her words "Don't get me wrong, I'm really happy you girls helped me dealing with the bugs, optimizing the formulas and making new, more advanced ones. What I'm trying to say is that while it helps us, it might help our enemy as well". Albedo sees what Arto was talking about now "You are afraid, aren't you, master? That they might get their hands on your formulas and misuse them?", Arto nods "Exactly, and we perfecting the formulas only make it easier for our enemy to use, and harder for us to counter".
Albedo listens intently before giving her view "Then we can still keep it hidden and controlled like this, you have your books encrypted in Abyssgard Code and authorized for only one person of your choosing to read and learn. Not only that, writing and reading it out loud wouldn't work for they will speak and write distorted sounds and letters, as well, why worry?". Arto pulls her closer to him and sets up a sound barrier between them, "There are 2 reasons for this. First, Abyssgard Code is the one and only defense line between the world and the formulas, I have made sure no one could crack it, but we don't entirely sure there is no one could break it, there is still a chance, small, but there, that someone might crack open my code, like what Robin is trying to do" Albedo's eyes widen hearing this "Why is Robin doing this? She is the smartest among us women of yours, she should know better than anyone that the code should never be cracked, for our and others safety". Arto gently rubs her back up and down to calm his succubus down, then she says "Robin knows too well about that code and its importance to us and to the world, she is just doing it for fun, as a challenge for her mind, but seeing her progress now, she would need try till the rest of her life to crack it. BUT....what if she is not doing it for fun and is really trying to take down the security system I placed on the formulas? That's exactly the second reason".
Albedo mutters in wariness "Betrayal?", Arto's voice firm "Yes, betrayal, intentional or unintentional, could lead to the misuse of the spell-making formulas, you girls can't speak the formulas out loud or write them down, but it doesn't mean you can't use them, you girls all have good skills over those formulas, you have been practicing them for quite some times now under my guidance and that's when the problem arises. You are the bridge between the formulas and the world, you have been working with the formulas so much they have become a part of you. So if one of you decides or is forced to betray me, you have the spell crafting knowledge with you, the danger of the formulas lies not in the words in the book, but in the hands of those who use it, like you, Rias, Akeno, Grayfia, Robin, Erza,....,my students. I trust you, of course I trust you all, that's why I taught these formulas to you, but each of you, no matter how trust-worthy, have their own motives, dreams and desires. so ....", Albedo's face shifts, she now knows the depth and weight of the knowledge she is carrying ".....even if we don't want to betray you, with a right push...." her face darkens, "Precisely, a slight turn of event, our enemy will have not the formulas, but the person who can use them to the fullest of their potential, and the consequences would be......" it couldn't leave his mouth like it can't be put into words.
Albedo gazed at Arto, her eyes a mix of understanding and a faint glimmer of fear "I see, master. But what do we do to prevent such catastrophic events and scenarios?" her questions filled with insecurity. Arto takes Albedo's hand into his and lightly squeezes it "That's why I'm talking to you now, I need your help to make something to balance the scale against the spell-making formulas", Albedo gets closer to Arto with curiosity in her eyes "What remarkable thing are you thinking of, my beloved genius~? You know you have my full support. Are we going to deal with information leaking or the formulas themselves?". Arto leans back at his chair, his face relaxed "I've already gotten some measures against information leaking, like encrypting you mind with Abyssgard Code, storing back-ups for your memory for situation where I have to wipe your mind clean to prevent further misuse of the formulas, installed some protocols to paralyzed you or erase your mind if you ever get controlled, and even some barriers to prevent mind-controlling,.....". Albedo's surprised hearing this "You have back-ups of our memory? Like, all of us?", "Yes, all of you, each student who studies in my class, I update them from time to time, but don't you worry, I'm not prying any of your secrets, despite how inviting it was" Arto answers. Albedo's eyes turn mischievous "You can have a look at my memory any time, master~ I don't mind, for you to know how much I love you" she ends by a kiss on his cheek, making Arto chuckle "Alright, alright, love you too Albedo. Back to our topic, despite all the methods in preventing information leak, it's still risky in some circumstances, so I still need something more like a counter to the formulas themselves."
Arto continues with his idea "I've tried making spells with opposite effects to counter spells made by the formulas, like using the formulas against itself, but.....", "....mana gap" Albedo adds. Arto puts on a smile "Yes, mana gap, the spell will be rendered useless if the opponent pours more mana into their spell, like if I try to counter Rias' spell with another spell, she can just pour more mana into her attack and I will lose surely". Albedo nods in understanding, recalling the time when she saw Robin looking devastated after leaving the simulation room with Grayfia, "Robin and Grayfia were testing this method, and Grayfia, a high-class devil will always win against a human with limited mana pool like Robin even if they both launch each a single spell, Grayfia's poured mana amount will always dominate Robin's amount no matter how effective her spell is, causing her loss". Albedo thinks for a little before making another suggestion "How about we do the reverse, master? Like.....", Arto realizes what Albedo was saying "...disassembling it?"Albedo excitedly agrees "That's it! If the formulas turn mana flows into spells,...." Albedo starts, "...we can counter it by doing it backwardly, turning spells into mana flows, making them practically harmless" Arto finishes her sentence as a clear path appears before his eyes. Albedo claps her hands together in anticipation "Master, this could be revolutionary! A disassembly mechanism—it's not just a counter, it's a safeguard against the dangerous side of spell-making formulas, if we can make them into formulas like ones of spell crafting, we can dissolve spells on the spot as fast as how we make spells.", Arto's eyes narrowed before Albedo's suggestion "This could work, Albedo, this could really work, like how a positive number has its equal negative number on the number axis. And when we combine them ....", Albedo chimes in "....we have zero, the spells will be naturally, completely neutralized without any consequences."
As the 2 were deep in their discussion, someone knocked on Arto's study's door, followed by a familiar voice "We're done, Arto. Take a bath and join us in the bedroom, will you, love?", Arto replies "Thank you, Nami. I'll go right away". Another voice rang from the other side of the door addressing Albedo "Don't take him for too long okay, Albedo? We want him too", Albedo giggles as she raises her voice "Don't worry Akeno, you'll have him when we're done". As the hall gets quieter with only the sound of women talking echoing through the hall, Arto stands up from his desk, he opens his hand to Albedo "Bath with me, Albedo, we still have a lot to talk regarding this method". Albedo eagerly takes his hand into hers as they move together to the bathroom. Upon arriving, they see the new, warm, fragrance water is ready for them, "How thoughtful of Grayfia, knowing what I like" Arto says in appreciating tone while checking the temperature of the bath water, "Then let's head in, master" Arto turns to Albedo to see she is already naked and eager to bath with him. Arto takes off his clothes as well and gets inside the bathtub with Albedo following behind him. Arto takes a seat in the bath and leans his back against the edge, Albedo immediately comes to where her master is sitting and takes her position between his legs and leans back against his chest, Arto warmly wraps his arms around his succubus as the water works its magic in healing them both.
"This is the best spot" Albedo rubs her back against Arto's scarred chest in satisfaction. After a few moments, after finding her suitable position, she stops moving and turns her head aside and looks up to see her master's face, waiting for him to speak. Arto sees his Albedo is good with her position, he looks into her curious golden eyes and he starts "Alright, about the matter we have just discussed, about reversing spells, we would have to make a new set of mana bending symbols for this matter", his mind starts sketching new ideas of these symbols. Albedo's eyes furrow, her head tilted slightly when she asks "Don't we have a good set with all the bends possible already? We just need to find a symbol that does the opposite to the one we want to dissolve, why make new ones?", Arto gently answers "Yes, we can do like you says, we can find the symbols with opposite bending direction, but the degree isn't the same, one symbol can bend a mana flow in a certain direction with a certain degree, the opposite one you were talking about can only satisfy one of the 2 conditions that needs to be met to turn a mana flow back to its original form, direction and degree. It could only deal with the direction, but the degree differs, and you know, only a slight bend on a mana flow could take effect and turn into a spell, it would be really unstable and even dangerous. That's why we need a new set of symbols that bend the mana flows precisely back to their original form, an exact opposite".
Albedo nods in understanding "I see, master, but would it be a long process, I mean it's not easy to make a symbol that could bend mana like we want, not to mention the creation of new formulas for these mechanic as well" Albedo's voice filled with worry, Arto nods and looks at his love in understanding "Yes, you're right, it's really hard to create a symbol, in fact, most of the symbols we are using in formulas are the ones of this world that has similar bending effect to symbols in my world, I only had to make a few of them up due to there is no symbols in this world that match my need, but it took me almost half of the time of my magic converting process. Now we need to make a whole new set of symbols" Arto's voice trails off at that point, recalling the load of works he has to take to make create and function just a few of symbols, Albedo turns around, places her hands on his chest to encourage her beloved "It's like creating magic again, but it's necessary, not just for us, but for the safety of the people around us against dangerous spells, not just spell-making formulas. This is also a new aspect we have never seen before, so despite the gruesome work we would have to take, it'll be interesting as well, don't you think?".
Arto can feel his spirit lifted hearing Albedo's words "You're right, this is an entirely new field that we can discover, the other side of magic, there will be lots of works, mostly with the symbols and foundation, but I'll take it to protect you and others" Albedo can feel her heart heated by the word from her master, she places a kiss on his lips, to which Arto blends in. After a while, they both let go of each other "That's my man, always looking out for us women" Albedo says amongst her pants for air after the kiss, Arto pulls her closer to him and brushes his lips against her forehead "Who would I care for if it's not my lovers, Albedo? But will you go with me on this journey into the darkness of the opposite side of magic?" Arto asks with his eyes full of determination, Albedo's gaze softens as she places her hand on his cheeks and gives him another kiss "Me and the women are always ready, Arto. Just a word from you and everything will be in motion" she ensures him with all her readiness. Arto couldn't help but smile while looking at the fiery eyes of his succubus, he reached his fingers up to rub her cheek lovingly "Thank you, my lovely Albedo. Now, that's all for tonight, let's move back to the bedroom, I think other ladies have waited long enough" Arto says as he stands up from the water and stretches his body, Albedo follows him, but when they come to where the clothes are usually put, there is nothing there but a note that reads 'I'll get you your clothes tomorrow, sleep naked with us tonight <3'. Albedo chuckles looking at the note "Grayfia is really something else, isn't she? It's her turn to sleep close to you tonight and she is going all out for the best experience. I would have done the same".
Arto sighs as he puts the note back and was about to head to the entrance of the bedroom, Albedo jumps on his back and hugs him tightly around his neck "Take me back to our little love nest, master~", Arto gently adjusts his succubus' position on his back before opening the door of the bathroom to see the bedroom on the other side of the door to the 2's surprised, the women haven't slept and are still enjoying themselves on the bed, naked, Grayfia was the first to notice Arto and Albedo as she closes the distance between them and places a kiss on her master's lips "Welcome home, my love, come to bed, I've been waiting for you~", she then turns to Albedo, who is still on Arto's back "Get off him, Albedo, you've had him too much for today, and by the law of the harem, you'll have to sleep the furthest from him tonight". Albedo tries to protest but she knows better, she gets off Arto's back, kisses him and goes to the bed to take her position, leaving Arto and Grayfia, the head maid then pulls her master to the bed where the women are waiting. She, and other women after seeing the Abyssgard in his birthday suit were more than excited, they immediately pulls him onto the bed and start laying around him, Rias was the first to raise her voice as she was laying her head on his chest "You really outdid yourself today, Grayfia, lucky for me, I'm the one who shares Arto's chest with Grayfia tonight" Rias says with triumphant voice and snuggles deeper into her man, "You even teleported Arto here after his bath, you really can't wait anymore now, can you?" Robin adds as she intertwines her fingers with his and hugs his arm close to her body, "It's too bad I didn't get to be close to him today, but I'll take miss Robin's body here to make up for it the lack of warmth~" Akeno purrs as she wraps her arms around Robin from behind and buries her face in Robin's hair. On the other side, things weren't so different as Grayfia is trying to be as close as possible to her man's torso to get all his warmth while Nami has all of his arm for herself, and Albedo has no choice but to use Nami's body for comfort. The head maid was the one who is enjoying this the most as she hugs her naked body close to his, when she gets her comfortable position, Grayfia lets out a comfortable sigh "I love this spot~", "Everyone love that spot, Grayfia, I'll take it back tomorrow, but enjoy it tonight, Grayfia, what you and Akeno did with the dinner was amazing, especially with that parfait" Nami talks from behind Grayfia, her tongue is still lingered by the parfait's flavor.
"Arto love, what have you and Albedo have been talking about earlier? It seems really secretive when you set up that sound barrier, I couldn't help but get curious" Robin says as she gives Arto a light squeeze on his hand to get his attention. Arto turns to Robin with unreadable eyes, like he doesn't know if he should tell them all about this. Seeing his unease eyes, Rias reaches her hand to cup his face "My love, you don't need to tell us if you don't want to, if it's your secret, we are in no place to pry, just don't get yourself in danger, that's all we're asking from you". Arto's eyes soften hearing those words "Thank you, Rias, don't worry, just a new project of mine that requires Albedo's assistance". From the farside of the bed, Akeno chimes in with her usual playful demeanor "A succubus' assistance huh? Don't tell me the project will involve a tiny spirit that will take 9 months and 10 days to grow~ If so, I want to join that project as well~ Fufufu". Arto immediately shakes his head before the idea Akeno is trying to imply "No, no, nothing like that, it's something else, I'll inform you girls about it when I reach some points in the project, but for now, just know it's for the safety of you and everyone around us". Grayfia, who has been quiet to enjoy her master's body decides to speak as well "Then that's is enough for us, knowing you are fighting for our safety, I can't be happier, if you need me, I'm always available to assist" her encouraging word was followed by a kiss on Arto's cheek. Nami, ever a curious cat, turns to Albedo who is hugging her from behind "Albedo, what are you and Arto going to make? Will it bring us money?", Albedo puts on a smile as she presses her body closer to Nami's, "Well, it will be up to you to decide, you're the one who knows money more than us all, I bet you can find a way to make money out of it once we establish it to you" Albedo's words only make Nami's curiosity rises as she start thinking about possibilities. With that said, the bedroom gets quieter as everyone starts sleeping, ending their day in intimacy and comfort.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto trying to bend a string of light but failed)
Albedo makes her way into the simulation room with the book of 'Spell-making formulas' in her hands. Heading inside Arto's lab, she sees Arto is at his table with books stacks all over the place the man is at his table, his pen doesn't stop writing and beside him 'Spell-making formulas' is opened, on the table there is a small stand, it's holding a thin string of light. At one moment, Arto takes up a small len and puts a magical symbol into it and place it in between the string of light, and the string is magically bent away from it original form, but he doesn't seem to satisfy with the outcome so he crumbs the paper with the symbol and throw it in the trash can which is now filled with a lot of crumbed paper and continues with his work. Albedo heads to her master's side "Already started, I see? My master looks hot as hell when he is focusing on his work" Albedo coos into Arto's ears as she wraps her arms around his neck.
Arto notices Albedo's presence, moves his head up and places a kiss on Albedo's cheek "Thank you, my love. Now, take a seat so we can start, you know how things go already, right?", Albedo lightly nods to Arto's question "Yes, master, make a symbol to bend the mana flow back to its original form" Arto moves the book stack close to him away, leaving a room for Albedo to sit, she eagerly takes a chair and settles down close to her master before opening the 'Spell-making formulas' book, ready to work. Her eyes lay on the mana bending symbols, the cornerstone of magic and magecraft, a tint of anticipation washes over her when she knows she is going to make something incredible out of this. She starts writing the first symbol she is going to deal with down on a piece of paper. Taking out the same lens Arto is using, Albedo gently places the symbol inside of it, and places it in between the stand with the string of light to see how it's bent and the degree of the bending. The indexes appear before her eyes as she looks at the result. Albedo quickly wrote down the direction and the degree of the bending. Albedo starts working on the symbol to do the opposite to the one she has just tested, she looks over the book to find the symbol that will help her bend the string with the same direction for inspiration. When she finds it, Albedo takes a look at the symbol before checking its index in mana bending. Putting the symbols he found in between the string, she has a closer look on how different in the degree of bending it is from the result she desires. Measuring the difference, Albedo started working to make the new symbol.
After what feels like hours, Albedo has finished her first prototype, she places the lens with the symbol in between the string, the indexes appear before her as her eyes furrow 'Dammit, just a little more, what did I do wrong?' She thinks to herself before looking back at what she made to find her error. As she was working, she and Arto were completely silent as they focused solely on their work, she turns to Arto to see the Abyssgard is working diligently with no tint of distraction, he keeps writing and testing with no rest whatsoever throughout many hours of working, even when he fails, he makes to complains or shows any frustration, just do it again. The process goes on for many hours until Albedo leans back at her chair, and throws her pen against the wall of the lab in anger, creating a hole on the wall, this catches Arto's attention as she turns to her "Frustrated I see?" his voice was firm and serious, hearing her master's voice, Albedo turns to him, ready to apologize but he stops her as she was trying to raise her voice, his voice softens "It's alright, there is nothing to feel sorry about, it's your first time making mana bending symbols after all, it's indeed a grueling work, me too am frustrated when my work didn't go my way from time to time, so you don't need to worry".
Albedo turns to her master with a curious look "How could you stay so calm and composed after so many failed attempts, master?"Arto moves back a little to show her what is beneath the table where he is sitting, Albedo's eyes widen seeing his footprints dig deep down the floor of the lab "See? I'm angry too, it's just I didn't let it affect my working efficiency so you don't need to contain it, just express it in some ways that don't distract your work. After all, this work of ours will take us far into the new aspect of spell and magecraft that no one has ever looked at, it's like moving on your own into the dark without any source of light, full of uncertainty and risk, but this is the way we have to go as the road openers, to set up outposts and beacons of light on the opposite side of magic, so that whoever comes after could know the way and advance further. We are doing the job of the first wizards and sorcerers when they first discovered magic, but on the other side of it". Albedo could feel a sense of pride washing through her, she is contributing along with her master to make something remarkable, a legacy that will change the world of magic forever. But at that moment, a question pops up in Albedo's head "Master.... I want to ask you something..."
Arto tilts his head lightly "What is it, Albedo?" he asks, "Shouldn't this be easier if you let others take part in this project, I mean if we have more people, the work will be done much faster and more efficiently, right? Why am I the only one helping you in this? It's not like I don't want to, I love spending time with you, no matter what we do, it's just I'm curious why others are not here helping you" Albedo's voice filled with uncertainty and curiosity. Arto sighs as he drops his pen down and turns to Albedo and looks at her in the eyes, his gaze was unreadable as he gives her the answer she didn't expect "Because in my harem, I could only trust you". Albedo's eyes widened hearing the sentence. She looks at him, trying to find an answer "What do you mean, master? Why don't you trust others? None of us has any ill intent towards you, or have you discovered something sinister...." Her question was left hanging, she couldn't complete it, she can't bring herself to trust the idea that any of her harem sisters is trying to betray her beloved master. Arto gently squeezes her hands his hands, he looks her in the eyes and explains his decision "No, Albedo, nothing sinister, they're all wonderful women that I have the luxury to love and care for, I love them all, dearly, deeply. But that doesn't mean I trust them completely, I know they love me, I know they care for me, but inside them, there are personal goals, drives and dreams. And those goals might one day be the reason they turn their backs on me. And when they do, I want to have something to make sure their knowledge over spell-making formulas won't be misused or abused for wrong reasons. That's why their betrayal should all be seriously considered, except.....for you, Albedo"
Albedo lowered her gaze, her hands tightening slightly against his. "Then why me, master? What makes me different? Surely, I have my ambitions too.", He lifted her chin gently, his touch firm but tender "Because your ambition....is me. You are my virgin succubus, the creature of one single love with an unbreakable, untaintable mind once fell in love, you've devoted your heart and body for me the moment you fell in love with me, your loyalty is driven and fueled by nothing but limitless, unwavering love and devotion. You want nothing but to see me well and safe. Your ambition was to stand by me, protect me at all costs, it's not just what you want and desire, it's in your nature. And for that loyalty, I give you my full trust, beyond all others. And one more thing...." Albedo leans closer to her master to capture his answer "...I want you to assist me in this project for you to learn and master this craft to stop ME if needed" Albedo's eyes widen in astonishment hearing her master's answer, her face shifts to worry "Stop you? What do you mean, master?" her voice was insecure and confused, Arto gaze didn't leave her eyes "Out of the people who know spell-making formulas, who are those in this family, I'm the most dangerous with the formulas, for I was the one who taught you all those formulas. So if I lose control......."
Arto paused, his gaze steady but shadowed with an unspoken weight. Albedo's hands trembled slightly as she gripped his tighter, her eyes locked on his with a mix of disbelief and determination. "Master... you don't trust yourself?" she whispered, the words heavy with emotion "Yes, Albedo, I have betrayed myself more than you could imagine, so a safeguard against me is needed, and you.....will be that person who will stop me if I ever try to use those formulas for twisted reasons, intentionally or under others' manipulation. Promise me Albedo, that you will not hesitate to stop me, even if it hurts me", Albedo looks at her master, her heart from flooded with pride now has a heavy sense of duty, she looks at her one and only love, how could she ever bring herself to hurt him? She loves him more than the world itself, she couldn't bear the feeling of wounding the man who is her everything "Master, I would never harm you, I love too much to do that. How could I... " Her voice wavered, but her resolve remained visible in her quivering lips. Arto reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face, his touch gentle but his expression firm. "I know Albedo, I know you love me, more than anything in this world, that's why I trust you with this task. I know you love me for the person I am, not the person I appear to be, not this broken husk of a tormented soldier. So please, when the time comes when I lose myself ,when I'm not the Arto Abyssgard you know and love anymore, bring me back, take me home to you and others. Can you promise me that? A promise that you will bring your beloved master back if one day he fell into the darkness with you unwavering love and devotion"
Albedo's eyes glistened with unshed tears. She leaned into his touch, closing her eyes briefly as if drawing strength from his presence. "If that's what you ask of me, master, then I promise you. I will learn everything, prepare for every possibility, so that I can bring you back to me and others, so that we can be together, forever" Albedo leans in to hugs Arto, her grip tightened as he can feel her tears soaking his shirt, the Abyssgard gently rubs her hair to comfort his beloved succubus "Thank you, my love. It means a lot to me hearing that promise. In return, I'll make sure that moment will never come to me or to any of you. And we can start with this project" Arto said as he pointed at the 'Spell-making formulas' book, the paper, the lens and the mana flow stand. Albedo could feel her hands being pulled towards the pen she pinned on the wall, Albedo quickly grabs the pen and starts her work again, more vigilant and delicate than ever. Arto looks at his lover in relief, knowing she will be the safeguard for him once things get dire, he calls upon the control panel of the simulation room and activate time-dilating function before putting the Time Anchor suit on and getting back to work again
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto thinking for a name for the project before a board)
Rias and Akeno are sitting in class and enjoying themselves after a lesson, their eyes driven to the empty seat beside Rias, "He has been in the simulation room for a month now and still no sign of him getting out of there" Akeno was the first to speak with her sorrowful voice, "Right, it's as long as the time he built the room, I wonder what he is doing in there? Grayfia is freaking out about his well-being by now" Rias adds, her face etched with worry. From behind them, Nami arrives "Maybe it's the project he talked about the other day, at least he has Albedo with him all the time so we don't need to be too worry, but not having him around is really frustrating, I love Robin's teachings in spell crafting class, but Arto...." Nami left her words hanging, not knowing what to say next. Rias turns back to Nami and takes her hands and lightly rubs them "I miss him too, Nami, but he has his own work and we have to respect that, I know for sure he is doing this for us so we could only hope that he comes back soon". As the 2 were talking, Erza comes to them "Have you got anything from Robin about Arto's absence, Nami, Rias, Akeno? I have never seen him gone for so long. I miss our training sessions" the longing feeling was visible on Erza's face when she was talking about Arto. Akeno responds to Erza with a sigh "We don't know, Arto is hiding this work of his really well, even Robin's eyes and ears couldn't get anything for us. When I asked her yesterday, she said Arto hasn't left his lab in the simulation room after getting in with Albedo a month ago, she told me that she noticed Arto had activated time-dilation function with insane time dilated, one day outside equals 4 months inside"
Rias, Nami, and Erza all gasp before the information, they couldn't believe their ears hearing this, Rias shakily says "You....you....mean....he has been in there....for 10 years now?". Akeno nods with the same confused look as the others, "What kind of project takes Arto 10 years of constant work inside his lab? The reason why he and Albedo could sustain themselves inside the room is beyond me, but this is not good for him, physically and mentally, even with Albedo being there with him" Nami expresses her worry with concern in her voice knowing her man is pushing himself beyond any limit of a human. Erza steps in between the women, her voice firm and determined "Then we must get him out, no matter if he likes it or not, he is worrying us all about his health. Whatever he is working on, I don't care, but if it's harming his well-being, I won't stand and watch, I'll drill my way into that lab if needed to get him out" Erza turns her back to other and was about to leaves the class, but Rias stops her "Erza, please be patient, I know you're worried, we too, but let's leave this till after class, okay?" Erza reluctantly stops her track, her shoulders slump down as she returns to her seat with unease all over her face.
Rias sighs as she sits down and looks at the empty seat next to her, Arto's seat. As her mind was running with questions, Sona and Tsubaki came back from their work in the Student Council office, they both looked at Arto's empty seat with disheartened gaze "He still hasn't got out of that room, has he? What is he trying to do?" Sona shoots a questioning look at the seat where Arto usually sits, "He hasn't been here for a month now, not a single day he appeared, it's getting concerning, hasn't he told you anything, Rias?" Tsubaki expresses her worry as well. Rias doesn't know what to say to her friends because she too is oblivious about the project Arto is on, "No, he only told me it was an important project, that's all I know, he has been spending 10 years inside that room with Albedo....". Sona and Tsubaki were taken aback by this information, Tsubaki warrily asks "10 years....10....whole....years?" Rias nods helplessly "Yes, 10 years and he hasn't come back out, and we are worrying sick about him right now, especially Grayfia, she is freaking out not knowing how her master is doing right now, she even tried to break her way into his lab, but nothing seems to work" Rias sighs in desperation, Sona lowers her head as she also lets out a sigh "So all we can do now is waiting for him to come out? I hope he comes home soon for the final exam of the year", "I hope so too" Rias sadly mutters under her breaths.
Issei POV
Another beautiful day without Aruto Abyga going around being the magnet that attracts all the girls' attention, it has been a month since the last time I saw him at school and things have been nothing but remarkable for me and the boys. With Aruto not appearing at school, the shadow he casts over us has been removed, and I could finally see the light. Walking across the school yard, I can immediately see the shift, starting from the topic of the girls' talk, no more about Aruto Abyga and how wonderful he is, how perfect he is. The hall of the school building doesn't suffer from traffic jams anymore now that Abyga is absent from school. And for once, the girls look at us boys without comparing us to that genius, it's like when putting us beside him, we are like barbarians when he is a hero in shining armor from some myth. And for once, we can see some decent, competitive sport games in P.E class, where the winning chance is evenly divided among 2 teams instead of being solely decided by the team who gets to pick first and the one they always pick is the 'one and only' Aruto Abyga.
That guy has always been the one that made the scale imbalance in the game for the team who has him will surely win no matter how weak they were, he will carry them all. I saw once in a dodgeball game between a group of bulky students against a bunch of nerds, the only difference is the appearance of Aruto Abyga among the nerds because the nerds got to pick first. And with him on the nerd's team, the impossible happened, the nerds won dominantly, those nerds were like on steroid under Aruto's leading, they were like gladiators and not anymore book worms, they move in perfect coordination under Aruto's command, dodged every balls and hit every shot even though their throwing were really light comparing to the that from the other team, the insane thing is that Aruto didn't do much in that game, he throws a few balls, mostly dodged and led, he stood among the nerds and ordered them around like some sort of army, and with that, the nerds won even with their frail physiques comparing to their opponents. And the cheer never stops for the golden boy, the genius, the prodigy Aruto Abyga.
"Can you feel it, Issei?" A voice came from behind me, I turned back to see Motohama and Matsuda standing behind me with their gleeful expressions "Another glorious day without Aruto around stealing all the spotlight" Motohama speaks up with joy all over his face, "Yeah, I'm tired of girls talking about that genius like an endless topic, about teacher praising him every time" I reply with the same excitement. Matsuda continues our joyous conversation"I just hope that he is gone for a few more months, I'm done being a barbarian in the girls' eyes". As we're talking, the class bell rang, telling us to go to class. As we're walking towards the class, Motohama turns to me with excitement as he asks me "Do you know what class we are attending?", I blink in confusion before asking again "What class?", he then pulls out the schedule and shows it to me "It's history, Issei, HISTORY. And do you know who is teaching history?". A wave of realization hits me like a punch in my guts "Oh god, how could I forget? Miss Nico Robin is teaching, the goddess is teaching". "Then let's move guys, we can't afford to waste another moment, miss Robin is waiting for us". We rush to the classroom and immediately take a seat, waiting for the goddess of Kuoh Academy and basking us in her glorious beauty.
The moment the class' door opens, revealing miss Nico Robin in her normal attire but with her wearing them, they become luxurious clothes from top brands, the whole class was silenced before her beauty, only the sound of her heels were heard, we looks along every steps she takes in silent appreciation to he beauty
"How could such a perfect woman like her exist in this world?" I think to myself when seeing her walking in the class, each step was graceful and her posture is perfect like a model catwalking. The whole class couldn't mutter a word before the teacher. When she settles down at her table and turns to face us, we were blown away by her gentle smile "Too beautiful" the thought that doesn't seem to be mine alone, my eyes couldn't leave her face, that sharp intelligent eyes, that straight nose, that creamy skin and that beautiful lips, she is too beautiful for a teacher. My eyes keep wandering her face and moving from there down, my eyes move through her neck down to her chemise with many loose buttons, my eyes couldn't resist it as they move lower till my eyes lay on her cleavage. My fetish for breasts starts kicking in as I look at it intently, imagining those beautiful soft mounts packed inside that chemise of hers. My mine starts making fantasies about me having those breasts for myself, the images of myself squeezing those juicy tits of Miss Robin are flooding my mind.
"Alright class, we are going to learn about....." her captivating voice captures our attention as we look at her again, Miss Robin takes the chalk and starts writing what we're going to learn today on the board. The image of her wide hip appearing before our eyes made the boys go crazy over the teacher, including me. I like breasts more, but I must admit her ass is really something else. When she is done, she turns back to us and I have a chance to witness her breasts once more. The lesson begins when Miss Robin starts speaking, her voice is soothing, warm and captivating, but nowhere near her breasts, I can see how they lightly jiggle whenever she writes something on the board, making my mind go even wilder. The best lesson of the day goes on normally with me enjoying her beauty and capturing all her allure into my mind storage. When the class is over, Miss Robin leaves the class silently without her usual goodbye. When she is gone, my dream comes to an end when I hear a classmate of mine talking to another "Miss Robin seems a little off, don't you think?" she asks with concerning voice "Yes, I saw that too, she wasn't too passionate about this lesson like how she did in the past, I heard from other classes this has been happening for a month now, her history lessons are still top-tier, but I don't feel that.....you know" her friends answer with the synced feeling
"What are you talking about? Miss Robin is still normal to me, gorgeous and captivating as ever" I chime into their conversation, one of the girls turns to me, her face etched with frustration "You boys always focus on her body, you didn't even notice her lesson, let alone her emotion. Did you not see that smile was a forced one?" I blink in confusion "Forces smile? I didn't see any different, it was still beautiful as ever" the other girl sighs in disappointment "You perverted pig, miss Robin is clearly in distress about something and she has been like that for a whole month now, couldn't you see the worry on her face when she was teaching or your mind was flooded with fantasy about her?" I recoiled at the harshness of the words, my cheeks burning with embarrassment. "Alright, alright! Geez, no need to be so harsh. I didn't mean anything by it...but you said, this happened a month ago?". One of the girls nods "Yes, a month ago, she was okay at first, but her mood has been decreasing ever since. She was trying to be professional but the signs are appearing more and more" she said, her friend's eyes widened like she had realized something "Did you notice? The time of Miss Robin's declined mood was at the same time as when Abyga-senpai started his absence from school". Whenever that name comes along, it makes me feel uneasy, like the topic will be about him once his name was brought up, and this time, it's no different "C'mon, why is it always about him? Maybe it's only a coincidence that Miss Robin's shift in mood and Aruto-senpai's absence happened at the same time. How could they be connected? They are not even that close at school. Yeah, they talked a few times to each other outside of class, but that doesn't mean she will immediately be in distress once he disappeared". The 2 girls look at me and each other, and seem to be convinced by my reason. "Maybe you're right, this must be a coincidence...." Ring ring ring ring, The bell rung, signaling the next lesson is starting soon, we quickly go back to our seat to prepare for the next lesson
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Grayfia waiting outside of the simulation room)
3rd POV
Rias, Akeno, Koneko, Kiba, Erza, Nami, Robin, Sona and Tsubaki come to the ORC clubhouse's basement, where the simulation room is placed. They come down to see Grayfia and Kuroka is already there waiting for her master to come back, she has prepared many trays of foods, his favorite for him to enjoy once he gets out of the room. While still maintaining the professionalism in her posture, Grayfia's hand is slightly trembling, her mouth muttering something, and sadness is written all over her face. Rias comes to the head maid's side to hear her mutters 'Master, please come home to me', 'I miss you', 'Return to me, my love',......, Rias can feel the weight of loneliness on the head maid's shoulders. Rias was about to come closer to comfort Grayfia, the door of the simulation room opens, revealing Arto, a devastated Arto, his hair ruffled, his eyes darkened, his body thin like there is only bone left. He is followed by an Albedo which looks nothing less horrifying, the succubus is using Arto to help herself up. Grayfia wastes no time to come and hugs them both in her arms, tears start flowing from her eyes as she buries her face into her master and her harem sister, under her breaths, she mutters "Welcome home, master, Albedo". Arto heavily reaches his hand up and gentle rubs Grayfia's hair "I'm home, Grayfia, sorry for making you wait" he mutters before completely fainted
Notes:
To be continued.......
I've changed the writing style of this chapter, things will progress this way, hope you like it. Let me know your opinion
Chapter 26: The recovery
Summary:
The recovery, a reminder and an apology
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Arto opened his eyes to see himself in a strange room with a white ceiling and dim light above his head, confusion was the first feeling gnawing at him 'Where am I?' he thought as he tried to move. His body is surrounded by the soft comfort of a bed mattress with a warm, silky blanket over his body. Arto attempts to move his arm to sit up but fails, his body is too numb to move at the moment 'Stupid body' Arto complains as he tries to find a place on his body that could move and finds his neck is still functional. Arto turns his head from side to side to get a better view of where he is now. To his right, he noticed an expansive window, its heavy velvet curtains partially drawn to reveal the faint glimmer of a city skyline in the distance. The window's frame was sleek, polished metal, and the glass seemed to muffle the outside world entirely, creating an air of serene isolation. A small, automated mechanism on the side of the frame hinted at motorized controls for adjusting the curtains or the amount of light allowed into the room. To his left, a small table stood within easy reach, its surface topped with a neatly folded napkin, a glass of water, and a vase holding a single white orchid. The flower's delicate petals seemed to float in the air, a symbol of tranquility in the otherwise sophisticated surroundings. Beyond the table, a plush armchair, upholstered in a soft gray fabric, sat angled toward the bed, as though someone had been keeping vigil there.
'Looks like I'm in a hospital, a high-end one at that, well, when your girlfriend is rich, I guess', Arto puts on a light smirk as he lays his head back down into the soft pillow, the numbness over his body is slowly wearing off, from his fingers start to move slightly to his arm, to his leg. Arto takes a deep breath before getting out of bed and moves to the window to take a closer look at where he is now and before him, a familiar sight of the capital where the Sitri clan resides, where his beloved Sona Stri lives. 'Sitri domain, as expected, must thank Sona later. I guess this is what I get from having a lover who is an heiress to a clan specializing in medicine. Looking down at the city below him, Arto could not stop his amazement at this place, a medical paradise with a combination of modernity and arcane elegance. 'And people call it hell' A slight smile appears on Arto's face as he turns his back to see a white-haired woman in doctor attire approaching him, in her hand holding a tablet.
"Good day to you, Mr Abyssgard. I'm Julia Faunas, I'm the doctor who will look after you in your time here" She says with a smile. Arto was taken aback by the name, his eyes furrowed as he leaned in to ask her again "You mean Julia Faunas, like THE professor Julia Faunas, the head of Sitri clan's Healing Department?" Julia chuckled softly at Arto's surprised expression, her light blue eyes sparkling with amusement as she adjusted the tablet in her hands. "The very same, well, I'm still under Lady Sena but more or less. It's a surprise you've never met me before, I've arrived at your simulation room quite a lot to look after the research team, and I must say I love your creation and what it's capable of" she says with a tint of curiosity over her amused face, Arto scratches his head "You have? Maybe it's because of our schedules that we haven't had a chance to meet. I've only heard about you via other scientists, and from their words, I expected someone who looks much older, not this young and.......beautiful". Hearing those words, doctor Faunas chuckled, a soft and melodic sound, as she tucked a strand of her snowy white hair behind her ear "I do get that a lot, people tend to think I am some kind of assistant or new intern researcher from the university when they visit our institute".
Arto puts on a smile before the story of Doctor Faunas, the tension in the room soon dies down due to the camaraderie between the Abyssgard and the doctor, but before she can talk, Arto pulls out a file from his magical storage and gives it to Julia "Here you go" he says softly, the doctor blinks in confusion seeing the file, she turns to look at him and asks "What is this, Mr Abyssgard?" Arto chuckles lightly, his face etched with excitement "Some adjusting recommendations to your document on using magical surgery to intervene and adjust brain development for autism patients. I've read through your document and I saw you had some unsolved problems with your methods that are preventing your research from becoming an official curing method for autism so here are some recommendations of mine. I know you're determined about this project so I want to help you out, for I know how much this project means to you"
Julia blinked, the surprise evident on her face as she gently accepted the file from Arto's outstretched hand. Her light blue eyes scanned the neatly compiled document, curiosity flickering in their depths. For a moment, she seemed to forget her role as the composed, professional doctor and let herself show genuine wonder. "You read my research?" she asks with a surprised tone. Arto smiles modestly as he scratches the back of his head "I did, and I must say, I loved it, from the way you approached the problem to the way you handled each step of the surgery with such finesse even it was only on papers, I'm impressed, I can see the possibility of this method being the end of autism. Your note about the problems you stumbled into was really detailed and it helped me a lot in finding the solution for your problem like the one with neural synchronization or the lack of precision in mana infusion. So all I needed to do was deal with the problems you set out accordingly, along with some adjustments and optimizations, and the result is now in your hands. I have been waiting to give it to you personally, but....you know"
Julia eagerly opened the file to take a look, her eyes sharpened as she skimmed through the documents. As her eyes move from word to word in the first few pages of the adjusting document, her expression is full of disbelief and amazement, she turns her eyes to Arto, who is still standing opposite to her, and her voice stutters "This is......this is......more than I could imagine, I have been struggling against these problems for years, I was on the verge of calling off this project. But with this, hope can be lightened again" she speaks as her eyes turn back to the documents Arto gave her, her fingers clutching tightly on the papers that might complete her research and put an end to autism. She holds the file close to her body in gratitude, her heart swelled in the newfound light. She turns her gaze again to the man before her "This is .... extraordinary, Mr. Abyssgard. I'll have a look right away when I return to my office. I didn't know being assigned to take care of you would bring me such a pleasant surprise. Don't get me wrong, I've never doubted you or your intellect, but this is just.....just.....remarkable. Thank you, Mr. Abyssgard, thank you so much"
Arto can't help but smile at the genuine happiness of the doctor before him, her smile light, but full of relief and joy, the Abyssgard puts his hand on her shoulders, causing Julia to look at him "There is no need for a thank, you did an incredible job coming up with this method, all I did was working on your base and complete something that is really meaningful for those unlucky souls who are suffering from autism". Julia tries to protest his humbleness "Even so, a thank you was in order for your work, Mr. Abyssgard, if this came out successfully, our work will change so, so many unfortunate lives. This isn't just a breakthrough in science and medicine, Mr Abyssgard, this is hope"Her eyes were brimming with happiness and appreciation. Arto looks at her face and chuckles softly "You mean 'your' work, Doctor Faunas?"Julia tilts her head lightly before his words in confusion "What do you mean by the word 'your', Mr Abyssgard? This is our work, 'OUR' work" she insists. But to her surprise, Arto tightens his grip on her shoulder "No, Faunas, this is YOUR work and research, I played no role in this breakthrough, okay?"
Doctor Faunas can't comprehend what the man before her was saying "What does he mean by 'my' work? He contributed too, why is he trying to deny it?" she thinks to herself when looking into Arto's dark blue eyes "Why? Why are you doing this, Mr. Abyssgard? You deserve recognition for your work and effort, why let me take all the credit?" she asks with confused gaze and questioning tone, Arto sighs as he answers "Because I want to remain in the dark, unknown, unseen, unrecognized", Julia shakes her head "I don't understand, why are you doing this? Why are you hiding and letting others take all the credit for YOUR contribution? I can't do that, Mr. Abyssgard". Arto firms his gaze on Julia, his voice gets serious "Julia, I made this not to seek recognition or fame, I did this to help people, not to be seen or praised. It will affect the peaceful life I'm having right now. I don't want people to come to my home every day and disturb my life with wonders and requests. So do me a favor, Julia, don't count me in, that's all I'm asking of you"
Julia looks at Arto with unease all over her face "This will not do, Mr Abyssgard, there must be something I could do to pay back for what you've done for me and for those patients, I can go with you not being included, but this doesn't mean I'm just going to walk away with your work and effort and call it mine, it doesn't sit right for me. So Arto, tell me what I can do to show you my gratitude" her voice firm and serious as she gets closer to him.
Arto closes his eyes to think of some moments before opening them again with a resolve clear in his mind "There is something you can do, Julia. I heard you have quite a voice among the professors of Stria Medical School, yes?", "Yes, in fact, I was teaching there along with working in this hospital before Lady Sena Sitri assigned me to take care of you" she nods. Arto's eyes brightened before the confirmation "I see, then there is something I want you to do for me, as a payback. I'm thinking of expanding my magic class to take more students in. If any of them get to study in Stria, can you take them under your wings and guide them through their way in Stria for me?"
Julia's lips curved into a small smile. "That, I can do. Consider it done, Mr. Abyssgard, your future students will be in good hands. And... Thank you again. For everything". Arto takes her hands into his "Thank you, Doctor Faunas, that's all I want from you, in return, I'll keep helping you and other scientists all I can, just, don't mention me, alright? This will only remain between us" Arto puts his index finger over his lips, making a 'shhh' gesture, this causes doctor Faunas to do the same "Only between us. By the way, no need to call me Doctor Faunas, Julia is fine" her lips curve into a smile as she stores the file away, "Same goes for me, Julia, call me Arto, I don't like such formality".
Julia nods in agreement before looking back at her tablet "Alright, enough of my matter, Arto, now it's your matter, young man. What have you been doing in the simulation room? Your body has suffered from severe strain and fatigue" She tapped a few notes on her tablet before setting it down on the nearby table, her tone becoming more professional. "You've been through an extraordinary ordeal. From what I've gathered, you spent ten years—albeit in a time-dilated environment—under extreme mental and physical strain. The simulations you ran in there, coupled with the prolonged exposure to artificial mana fields, have taken a toll on your body."
Arto sighed and leaned back against the window frame, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly. "Ten years inside, one month outside. Yeah, I figured there'd be consequences. But I had to do it. What's the damage?" Julia's gaze was piercing, yet there was a softness to it as if she understood the weight of his decision. "To put it simply, your body's natural mana pathways are severely overtaxed. You've developed what we call Arcane Fatigue Syndrome, a condition caused by overexposure to artificial mana environments. Your physical condition is also compromised—malnutrition, muscle atrophy, and a worrying drop in your core vitality levels. However..." she paused, her lips curling slightly in an encouraging smile, "it's not irreversible. With the proper treatment, rest, and care, you'll recover fully. But it will take time". Arto nods to Julia "Well, I've got plenty of time before me, I've completed my project, so everything is fine now, I can rest and go back to normal in no time. But before that, how is Albedo?"
"She is fine, I've already had a check on her before coming here, her recovery is faster than yours, as expected from a succubus like her, but you on the other hand, are a human, so take this recovery seriously, you won't be back to normal soon so you must listen to me in the meantime to ensure your full recovery. And we shall start by replenishing lost nutrients" Julia insists as she pulls out a bento box, chopsticks, and spoon from her magical storage and gives it to Arto "Your maid Grayfia made you this, it will cover a good amount of vital nutrients your body is lacking. When you're done, take these pills, they will get you the vitamins and minerals you need, and then you need to rest your body completely to assist the healing process. If you want to move, do something not too tiresome like a walk around the hospital's garden or some light exercises, but you can only start doing so a few days from now. At the moment, enjoy your bento, take the pills, and let your body rest, you've been mistreating it a lot after all"
"Aye aye, doctor Julia, thank you for taking care of me" Arto bows his head lightly to her, "You're welcome, Arto, lady Sena, your future mother-in-law personally assigned me this task, after all, she doesn't want to see mistress Sona's fiance in bad shape, but I can't guarantee she wouldn't scold you for what you did to yourself, it was hazardous after all, so you should prepare for her lecture once she is here" Arto gulps heavily knowing what is coming for him, as the man was in shamble thinking about being lectured by lady Sena Sitri, Julia snaps her fingers before his face, bringing him back to reality "Go eat your food, Arto, it might help you lighten the scolding by recovering well before she arrives" Julia reminds her patient about the food in a teasing voice, making Arto immediately goes to the food right away and starts eating.
"How long has it been?" Arto's voice filled with satisfaction as he looked at the bento box before him "Grayfia really is the best" he muttered before eating. Seeing the man hurriedly finishing his food, Julia puts on a light smile before placing the pills on the nightstand beside the bed "Remember to take the pills Arto, I'll be back later to check on you, okay?" Arto looks up from the box he is enjoying, swallows whatever there is in his mouth and start talking to her "Thank you again, Julia, I hope you enjoy what I recommended" he gives her a thumb-up before going back to eating, Faunas replies by a light nod before getting on her way.
When the door was closed, Arto quickly finished the hefty portion Grayfia prepared for him, each bite was a symphony of delight "Grayfia's food is really something else. I can't believe I could survive not having this for 10 years. I guess coffee has numbed my tongue into forgetting how good food tastes like" Arto thinks to himself as he gets the last bite into his mouth, finishing his meal. Wiping his mouth, Arto rests his hand on his belly in satisfaction. After the hearty meal, Arto takes a look at the pills, with a sigh, Arto takes them all in one go with a cup of water. When he's done, Arto lies down and lets his body rest and the sleepiness starts hitting him, Arto takes a look around the room one last time before driving into slumber.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto sleeping)
Arto POV
When my eyes slowly open, I see the same ceiling of the hospital room, I try to move my neck around but unable to, my body is still sleeping while my consciousness is fully functionable, it's like sleep paralysis. I have no choice but to wait until my body wakes up. The first one to come back to me was my smell. I expected the familiar smell of the hospital, but my nose captured something else 'This is not the hospital's scent......Why does this smell so.......familiar?' The question pops out in my mind as I try to identify the smell, the slight fragrance is lingering in my nose but I don't remember where I have sensed this. The smell keeps tickling my nose, deepening the question in my mind. As the wonder about the aroma still swirling in my head, my neck is back to senses, now I can see where the fragrance comes from. The aroma leads me to look down on my chest which is covered by the blanket. There is something under it that I don't know, but when I see a strain of red hair sticking out of it, 'Oh, shit........' realization hits me like a rocket, it's my crimson princess Rias Gremory, she is the blanket next to me on my right.
As my mind was processing the situation, something else under the blanket stirs on my left, letting out yet another sweet fragrance that captures my nose, but once again, I can't remember whose smell is this, my mind was clouded after 10 years inside the simulation room, I can't recognize this smell, even if it's really familiar. As my mind was running with guesses, the answer came to me when I heard a little murmur from under the blanket "Master~", no doubt, this is definitely Grayfia, my head maid. "How could I forget their scents like this? Has it been that long?" I ask myself why trying to think of an explanation for my own forgetfulness, but the fact laid bare before my eyes, I've lost the connection with them, with the people I love the most, those that I want to protect.
Panic was the first feeling that came to me, "If they knew I didn't recognize their perfume aroma, It'd be a death sentence for me, but it seems they are sleeping......." I sigh in relief knowing he might get away with this. But when my guard was down, a voice that almost made my heart jump out of his chest rang from my right side "10 years inside the simulation room and you've forgotten your lovers' aroma, your Rias is disappointed, you know?" Rias' voice was sharp like a shard of ice, freezing me right then and there, my lips were tightly shut as she turned her head and looked at me in the eyes, her gaze was stern and full of displeasure. Despite all that, Rias' lips curve into a teasing smug as she moves closer to me. Before I could mutter any words, another soft but much more chilling voice comes from my left "You even forgot the smell of your head maid lover, the one who prepares your clothes and your food, even bath with you almost every day, and here my master is, forgetting about his loyal maid and her signature perfume she saves only for when she sleeps with him" Grayfia's words are packed with disappointment, her face also get closer to me with a questioning look, leaving me tremble in shame.
I looked at his 2 lovers' questioning and disappointed look, not knowing what to say, I was at fault here and had nothing to say to defend myself. I wrap my arms around Rias and Grayfia and pull them closer to me to make my amend for my 2 lovers "I'm so sorry, both of you, I'm so sorry for forgetting about your scent, I didn't mean to, it's just the time I spent in the simulation room, it made my senses go dull and numb. I have nothing to make an excuse out of or anything to say in my defense, I will take any punishment you 2 and the girls decide for me and make up for all the time I left you, for I have messed up a great time with the people who love me the most. Please forgive me, I'll do whatever it takes to redeem myself and make up for you girls"
Rias and Grayfia gazes softened as they wrapped their arms around me, "Reckless, foolish Abyssgard. You don't know how much you worry us women, we have been waiting for you everyday, not knowing what you are doing or how you are doing, you just disappeared with only a vague piece of information" Rias starts the lecture while lightly rubbing his hair, Grayfia continues "Not that we are curious about your project, it's just we don't want to see you mistreating yourself like this, it pains us more than it pains you, do you understand that? Seeing the man we love breaking himself without being able to do anything to help. It's not like last time when you were in the simulation room making the time-dilation function, back then you came back to us 30 minutes a day. But now you just went for a month straight, came back barely alive, even forgot your lovers' scents." she says as she snuggled deeper in his neck
Each word from Rias and Grayfia were like sharp knife, cutting deep into the my heart, my mind races with envisions of Grayfia waiting for my by the door of simulation room with trays of food that I like, of Rias going back and forth in her room, trying to contact me for a month day after day without any answer. Guilt is crawling even deeper into him when he thinks about other women, those who are not here for some reasons, I thinks about Robin sitting alone in his study with her books out, ready for their nightly debate, about Nami waiting for me to inform me about her new investing plans and strategy, about Erza waiting for me in her room and 'Sandbox' section for their study and training sessions, of Koneko waiting for me to guide her along her way of learning Senjutsu, of Kuroka soothing her sister in my absent, and of Akeno longing for me in her own study and our shared bed, all those envisions break my heart, I have been clouded in my own plans, projects and calculations, I forgot the people who cares for me, love me, those who simply crave my presence, only want to see me well both physically and mentally. "What have I done? What future do I want to protect if I can't keep those I love around long enough to see it?" I think to myself as I start to realizes that I have been too absorbed in future plans and calculations to see that the presence is where I'm living with those he loves the most
"I was a fool, I was too obsessed with possibilities and calculations, with plans and outcomes I neglected you all, I didn't just forget your scents, I forgot my own reason I made all those plans and calculations" I reach my hands to rub Rias and Grayfia's faces lovingly "It was for you, my women, my purpose, my hope, my dream, my life. I ventured too deep into my own calculations, I lost the track back to the purpose of my work, I lost my track back to you. I have neglected you, thinking it wouldn't be long, only a month, you won't be affected too much, but in the end, I was the one affected, I spent 10 years inside the room, deep in my own project to the point I forgot about your scents, your touch, your love, your presence. Only now that you are here with me I know how wrong I have been. Sorry my loves, please forgive me"
I close my eyes, bow my head to express my regret for what I've done to my harem. In the darkness, I can feel the gentle touch of Rias' hand rubbing my hair, cool fingers of Grayfia brushing against my cheek, I don't feel any anger or disappointment from their touches, but it's love, mixed with sadness and pain. I've made them sad and confused by leaving them behind, absorbed in my own insecurity and fear. It drove me to launch all those projects, countermeasures and plans. I have treated my women not like my love and family, but potential threats and even....enemies "What was I thinking?" the question came to my mind as I looked back to what I've done, scheming against my own women behind their back, placing a unnecessary weight on Albedo's shoulders when ordering her to go with me on this project, spending 10 years inside the simulation room creating something not less strong and dangerous to counter what I fear could destroy the world to fight against what might never come, something that only appears in my own paranoia.
'Am I that kind of person? Like him, my Creator?' the question rang as I could feel the coldness of fear gripping my heart. My action against my women is not so different from what my Creator did to me back then, keeping them in my grasp and control, making plan after plan against them when they try to turn their back on me. Now thinking about it, I see, I'm not so different from the man who made me into a living weapon, the man I despise the most all my life, the man I never wanted to be, ever, but now here I am, repeating what he did to me to my women but worse, at least my Creator didn't hide his intention of trying to make me into a living weapon to serve his ambition, while I coated it in some noble purpose of protection and love to keep my women in check, deceiving them into thinking I'm protecting them, only for me to make plans against them when they try oppose me. "I'm not him, I'm worse, far worse than him".
As the guilt is gnawing at me and my mind, I close my eyes, trying to not think about it, but they keep coming, terrorizing my mind of how much I failed them, as a mentor and as a lover. The image of my beloved women swirling in my mind, how long they waited, how distress and lonely they were without me by their side, how they still love and care for me even if I was going against them, preparing for their betrayals instead of strengthening our bonds. The memories take me back to the lab, I walk in to see myself working with darkness glooming all over my face, my pen doesn't stop scribbling, the scrumbed papers keep piling up from behind me, mugs of coffee and nutrition bars were all over the floor, yet I didn't stop, nothing is stopping me.
But what broke my heart was Albedo, my beloved succubus. She was there with me, pushing through it all with me for 10 years without any complaints. She has been carrying it all with me with all the love and loyalty she has for this wretched master. Now I know why she looked so devastated after leaving the room, I didn't give her any love, her life source, not a word, not a gesture, we were 2 persons in a room instead of a couple who is deeply in love. She stood by my side, her radiant beauty dulled by the burden I'd placed on her shoulders. Her golden eyes, usually filled with mischief and warmth, had grown dim, weary from the endless strain. She bore it all in silence, her loyalty and love unwavering despite my neglect. She needed me—needed my affection, my care, my acknowledgment. But I had given her none of it. Not a word of comfort, not a touch of reassurance. I had treated her not as the lover she was, but as a cog in the machine of my obsession.
The memory of her haunted me. I saw her pacing the room when she thought I wasn't watching, clutching her chest as hunger gnawed at her—a succubus starved of the love that sustained her. And yet, she endured. Not for herself, but for me. Even as I spiraled deeper into my fixation, she remained steadfast, a silent pillar holding up the crumbling foundation of my sanity.The way her shoulders slumped when I dismissed her contributions without so much as a glance. The way she swallowed her pain and fatigue to hand me yet another set of calculations. The way her voice, once sultry and vibrant, had grown hoarse from lack of use, reduced to clipped reports and affirmations of my orders. When we finally left that accursed room, she had looked so... hollow. And I had been too blinded by my own exhaustion to notice, too consumed by my sense of accomplishment to realize what it had cost her. I thought I was protecting everyone, building a future where they would all be safe. But in doing so, I had hurt the one who stood closest to me, the one who had sacrificed the most.
"How could I be so cruel to you, Albedo?" The question stings painfully when I think about it, Albedo was loyal beyond all else and what did I do to her? I took her love and devotion for granted, putting weight on her shoulder for being the most loyal person to me, forcing her into this project knowing too well she could never oppose, planting doubt and wariness about other women into her, justifying my own paranoia with noble goals and achievements to keep her around with me, wearing her out to near death because of my own plans and delusion. "How could I call this madness love? How could I do this to the woman who has given her all to me, who treats me as her everything?"
"Master, why are you crying?" Grayfia's soft voice snaps me out of my own self-loathing, I flush my eyes open to see the worrying eyes of Rias and Grayfia looking at me. "You're like that again, Honey. Blaming yourself for everything" Rias gently rubs my cheek while trying to soothe me "Who else is to blame besides me, Rias? I did horrible things to you, Grayfia and others, especially Albedo. I wore her out mercilessly, knowing too well she will never refuse my order, I hurt the person who sees me as her everything, and loves me with all her heart. Taking her love and devotion for granted isn't enough, I denied her the love she needs to sustain herself. How could I call herself her master treating her like this? I promised her a better life and all I gave her was pain and stress beyond measure for 10 years. I don't deserve her, or any of you after all those abandonment and agony I caused you in the name of love and protection"
"Seeing it now, Arto love? Your sin?" the familiar voice of Robin, firm but warm, "Clearer than day, I've failed you all big time" I reply unconsciously to her question like it's the only answer I could come up with. "It's so painful, isn't it?" Akeno's normal sultry voice, now like a judge handing a verdict, even with closed eyes, I can feel the seriousness in her voice "It is, more than any wound or scar, more than any sword or magic could cause. I could've stopped this, but I didn't, I was too far gone, I've lost my way" I admit defeatedly, knowing there is nothing I could do to save myself from this sin. "Are you going to fix it? Fixing what you have done, to us and to yourself?" Nami's voice was like a gate opening before my eyes, judgemental, but fair and kind. "I'll fix it, no matter how long, even if it will take a lifetime to mend what I did to you all, I'll do it, I can't bear the thought of losing you, you are my love and my life. I've tainted that love, but I will do everything in my power to make this right for you all, my women. Please give me a chance"
"That's all we are asking for now" Robin says as she moves to the bed and starts rubbing my hair. "We're not forgiving you just yet, but we'll see you make this right for us, but to yourself especially" Akeno says as she jumps on the bed as well, she takes her position on top of me and gets closer to my face and places a kiss on my lips. "We lovers of yours will watch you go, will supervise your recovery, and you can start with that one person" Nami says as she takes my hand in hers and give me a light squeeze
"Albedo...." I mutter, my mind drifts to the life-drained, emaciated face of my beloved Albedo, the woman I hurted the most in my own paranoia and calculations "...I see, I'll go to her now, she needs me more than ever, but not the master who wore her out to near death, but the man who cares, loves and trusts her with all his heart". "Then go, my love, go to Albedo, she needs you more than us now, she needs your love to live after all, food and drink could only sustain her so much" Sona says from the entrance of the room, her gaze firm yet full of encouragement, I gather my courage to stand up from my bed and go to the entrance where Sona is standing and place a kiss on her lips "Thank you for taking me and Albedo here, my dear Sona, I'll make up for you and others later" Sona blushes as she turns her face to aside "Go on, my stupid fiance, We've waited for only a month, Albedo waited 10 years for your love, make sure you give Albedo her rightful reward for all her devotion" Sona says as she points at the door of Albedo's room, which lies at the otherside of the hall.
I nodded silently, my heart pounding as I made my way toward Albedo's room. Each step felt like a weight I had to drag behind me, knowing that I was about to face the woman who had given everything for me, everything she had, everything she was, only for me to take it all for granted. The image of her hollow, weary face haunted me, but I knew I couldn't face her with self-pity. I have to be strong now. For her. As I reached her door, I hesitated for a moment, the guilt still clawing at me. I couldn't help but wonder if it was too late, if the damage I had done was irreversible. But then I remembered Robin's words, Nami's, and Sona's. They hadn't abandoned me, even when I had abandoned myself. They were giving me the chance to fix what I had broken. I owed them that. I owed Albedo that. Taking a deep breath, I knocked lightly on the door. A faint, almost imperceptible sound came from within, her presence, fragile yet unmistakable. "Albedo?" I called softly, my voice trembling. "It's me. I'm here."
The door creaked open, revealing her. She looked... thinner than I remembered, her skin pale, almost translucent. Her once radiant beauty was now dulled by exhaustion, the spark in her golden eyes nearly extinguished. It was as if the light of her soul had been slowly drained, piece by piece, over the years. But even in her fragility, she stood tall, her expression unreadable. Without a second thought, I launch myself at her and take her into my arms, I squeeze her fragile body gently, my voice stutters "I'm sorry, Albedo. I'm so sorry for what I've done to you. For neglecting you. For using you as nothing more than a tool in my own plans and fears. I should have seen... I should have felt what you were going through, but I was so lost in my own head, in my own obsessions that I didn't see how much you had to suffer because of me. I failed to see what was right in front of me. I failed to love you the way you needed me to. You've given me everything, and I... I gave you nothing in return." My voice cracked, the guilt so heavy it threatened to crush me. "I hurt you. I made you suffer... and for what? For my own selfish fears, for my own delusions of betrayal and control. I thought I could protect you all, but I only drove you further away."
Albedo weakly wraps her thin arms around me into a tender embrace, her voice low, frail, but packed with warmth "You've seen it now, haven't you, master?", her weak voice is killing me, making my tears flow out from my eyes, soaking her shirt wet "I've seen it Albedo, I've seen it, I'm a failure of a master and a lover, I promised you a better life than this when I bought you from that auction house, I promised you a better life when I took you in as one of my lovers, I promised so much, only to turn you into this. I don't deserve your love, Albedo, I don't deserve it at all......." I can't mutter another word as my sniffles are taking over my voice, my grips tightened around my succubus, fearing I might lose her, my tears don't stop flowing as I sob into her shoulder. Yet, her touch on me remains gentle and kind, warm and loving Albedo's fingers softly combed through my hair, her touch as delicate as her voice, which carried both warmth and sorrow.
"Master... Arto, you truly are a fool." Her words were not harsh but filled with an unshakable tenderness that only deepened my anguish. "A fool who forgot himself, who lost his way, but a fool I still love with all of my heart." She leaned her head against my chest, her fragile frame trembling slightly in my arms. "You were never perfect, and I never expected you to be. All I ever wanted was you—your time, your love, your trust. Even at your lowest, I stayed because I believed in you, because I knew the man you truly are, even if you couldn't see him yourself." Her words only made the knot in my chest tighten. "But Albedo... I hurt you so much. I drained you of everything that made you... you. Your radiance, your strength, your joy—I took it all, without a thought, without even realizing it. And yet, you still stayed by my side. Why? Why didn't you leave me?"
Albedo pulled back slightly, just enough to look into my eyes. Her golden gaze, though dimmer than I remembered, still held an unyielding light. "Because I love you, my master. I am bound to you, not by force, not by obligation, but by choice. Even as I suffered, even as I starved for your affection, I never once stopped believing in the man I fell in love with. I stayed because I knew, deep down, you would come back to me—to us. And here you are." Tears streamed down my face as I held her closer, her words piercing my heart like a double-edged blade—both painful and healing. "I don't deserve you, Albedo. I don't deserve any of you. But I swear... I swear on my life, I will never let you feel this way again. I will spend every moment from now on proving my love to you, not just in words, but in actions. I will cherish you, care for you, and make up for every ounce of pain I've caused."
A faint, almost wistful smile crossed her lips. "Then start now, my master. Start by loving me as I am, as someone who simply wants to be at your side. No more walls, no more masks, no more distance." I nodded, my throat too tight with emotion to speak. Slowly, I leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead, then her lips, a kiss not of passion, but of reverence, of love untainted by fear or selfishness. She sighed softly against me, her body relaxing for the first time in what felt like an eternity. After the kiss, Albedo shifts, the thin, frail body of hers regains its radiant color and life essence, her beauty comes back as she starts glowing before my eyes.
A few blinks were enough for Albedo to turn back to her beautiful and lively self again, I couldn't believe my eyes as Albedo is healthy again just after a kiss. "Oh~? Instant recovery?" she giggles before pressing her lips against mine one more time "I dare say that kiss was full of love, if not, I won't be this healthy right away. I told you, didn't I? Love, specifically YOUR love is my food and what sustains me, and you just treated me to a hearty meal that no amount of food could provide, and now your Albedo is back at your service" Her voice, though filled with her usual sultry charm, carried an undertone of seriousness. "But..." she said, drawing closer, her warm breath tickling my ear, "...this time, don't leave me hungry for so long, Arto. You've seen what happens when you neglect me. I'm strong, yes, but even I have my limits."
A chuckle escaped my lips, light and unguarded, the kind I hadn't felt in years. Albedo's playful words, coupled with the sight of her returning vitality, were a balm to my soul. "I promise, Albedo," I said, my voice steady despite the emotions surging within me. "Never again will I let you starve for my love. Never again will I take you—or what you mean to me—for granted." She smiled, radiant now, her golden eyes shimmering with warmth and mischief, the Albedo I had fallen in love with finally shining through. "Good," she murmured, her voice soft but teasing. "Because if you do, Master... I might just have to teach you a lesson in how to treat your beloved succubus."
When she is done educating me, she squeezes my hands with hers and pulls me to her bed, Albedo throws herself on the far side of the bed and pats the spot next to her, with her sultry voice, she orders me "Now, master, your love-craving succubus requires a good, loving sleep with you" she doesn't wait for me to give my answer and pulls me right onto the bed with her insane strength, when I'm close enough, she gets on top and wraps her arms around me and gets as close as possible. Albedo lets out a light giggle as she rubs her face against my chest "I've been waiting for this for 10 years, you don't know how much I miss these intimate moments with you, my beloved Arto."
I instinctively wrap my arms around her as well "Sorry, my love, for making you wait so long, but I'm here now, enjoy your slumber, my love" I place a kiss on top of her head and gently rub her silky raven hair with one hand while the other covers us with the blanket, I can feel her hair brushing against my finger, giving me a surprising comfort "I didn't know how much I miss this until now" my hands keep brushing her hair like a comb until Albedo turns her beautiful slightly blushing face to me "Don't you think we're a little far apart, my love~?" her sultry voice invades my ears, making me oblige to her demand and pulls her even closer, but Albedo still seems unsatisfied "Still not close enough, Arto~ Let me fix that" Albedo brushes her finger against my patient clothes and they suddenly disappear, leaving me butt naked. Albedo's smile gets wider, her blush deepened as her finger touches herself, whisking her clothes away. When we're both naked, Albedo gets even closer to me, her body pressed against mine and her head rests on my chest, Albedo lets out a content sigh "Now we're close enough" Her giggle was light and filled with happiness as she traces her fingers on my bare chest. I can feel her smooth soft skin on my palm as I rub her back.
"Such closeness and intimacy, it's been too long" I let out a comfortable sigh as I held my beloved Albedo close to me, feeling her body's temperature, her soft touches and her fragrance, something that I've overlooked for too long. "10 years is a long time, indeed, but it only makes these moments more valuable and the love you shower me with more delicious. Even so, don't make your love one in a while delicate meal, I want you to love me every day" Her finger draws a heart shape on my chest again and again like a gentle reminder, "Not just every day, I'll love you in every moment, you deserve such love Albedo, I'll make up for you, I promise" another kiss was placed on her forehead, making her giggles, but not satisfied. She moves closer to my face and points at her lips "You kiss the wrong spot, my love~. I'll give you a chance to try again, here~" her lips were too good, too captivating to ignore, I couldn't help but chuckle softly at her playful demand, the mischievous glint in her golden eyes melting away the last remnants of my guilt for the moment. "How could I possibly refuse such an irresistible request?" I whispered, my voice low and warm. My hand gently cupped her face, my thumb tracing the curve of her cheek as I leaned in closer.
Her lips were soft and inviting, carrying the faintest taste of sweetness, a sensation that sent a shiver down my spine. The kiss wasn't hurried or filled with the urgency of passion—it was deliberate, deep, and filled with every ounce of love and devotion I'd long denied her. It was a promise, unspoken but deeply felt, that I would never neglect her again. The kiss lasts for an unknown amount of time, I don't think I'm tired of it, no matter how long or how many times we do this. When we're done, our lips parted, leaving a trace of saliva that connects us both, Albedo seems to be satisfied with the kiss as she lays her head back on my chest "Now that's the love I've been waiting for, my master. But it's far from over, you know. You owe me a decade's worth of kisses, touches, and words of affection. Don't think I'll let you off easy." I grinned, the weight in my heart lifting further with her playful banter. "A debt I'm more than happy to pay, my dear Albedo. Consider this just the beginning." I pressed another lingering kiss to her head, savoring the warmth and closeness between us. After a little while, my eyelids get heavy as they slowly close, leading me to a tender slumber with my beloved Albedo
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto hugging chibi Albedo as he rubs her head)
3rd POV
Arto wakes up to the light in the room turned on, while his eyes are adjusting to the light, Arto uses his hand to cover the light from getting into Albedo's eyes, keeping his beloved succubus asleep, he glances around the room to see doctor Faunas is standing at the entrance with the same tablet with her, she smiles lightly as she greets Arto in whisper "Good day to you, Mr. Abyssgard." She walks closer to my bed, her eyes exude the air of professionalism. "Good day to you as well, Doctor," Arto whispered back, his tone warm but guarded to avoid waking Albedo. He watched as she approached, her tablet in hand and a sly grin playing on her lips, still maintaining her whispering voice "I didn't see you in your room, lady Sona told me you are here so I came to have a daily check on you. Luckily I also have to check on lady Albedo as well so this is quite convenient, have you considered staying here till discharge?" She asks with a mischievous grin.
The question gets a light chuckle out of Arto as he answers "If it's so convenient for you to do a double check-up, I'll consider staying here with Albedo, the hospital will have another room to spare." Doctor Julia Faunas giggles slightly "An economic choice, indeed. Even if you don't want to, I would still recommend you staying with lady Albedo, she is your virgin succubus, she lives on your love and affection, so the more you shower her with love, the faster she will heal. Right now, she is healing really well right under the blanket here. She suffered from something similar to malnutrition, but it's your affection and love she lacks for a long amount of time, so you can keep her nourished and healed by being here with her. She did the right thing when maintaining a close skin contact with you, helping quicken her healing pace via warmth and intimacy. Albedo indeed knows what to do with herself to heal" Faunas
"Indeed, my Albedo is a smart girl, she knows exactly how to take care of herself" Arto replies with a prideful smile as he keeps rubbing her silky hair, doctor Faunas nods with understanding "She does, but this healing is a long process, her body condition has been stable now, but her power will need more love from you to heal, so she will be weaker than usual for a few weeks from now. So keep up your good work and be here with her, she needs you more than any medicine or remedy"
Arto nods to the doctor's instruction "Yes, doctor, I'll be by her side as much as I can, she deserves as much" Arto looks down to see the sleeping Albedo snuggle deeper into his body, her radiant face etched a smile her lips murmurs gently in her slumber "Ar...to....love~..", a smile finds its way to Arto's lips, he couldn't get his eyes off of her "How cute can she get, really?" Arto thinks to himself as he places a kiss on her head, making the succubus snuggle deeper into him "I love you too, my precious Albedo." He whispers lovingly to his sleeping beauty
Faunas seems satisfied with the result of her daily check-up, "That's all I need to hear, now I'll leave you two to enjoy yourselves. I'll inform your family that you're here with Albedo" Julia talks in whispers to Arto's ears. "Thank you, Doctor Faunas" Faunas' lips tug into a gentle smile "Keep healing, Mr Abyssgard, that's the best 'Thank you' you can give me. Now rest, you both need it" With that said, Faunas makes her way to the entrance of the room and turns off the light of the room.
Arto moves his hand away now that the room is dark and his Albedo can sleep peacefully again, one of his hands keeps brushing against her hair, Albedo is still asleep, and her breathes were light and comfortable, gently tickling his chest, his arms wrapped loosely around his stomach, he can feel her smooth skin brushing against the scars on his belly. Arto lets out a sigh of relief as he keeps holding her close to him, like the weight of his guilt being lifted off his shoulder, seeing his Albedo healing like this. Along with the lifted burden of a new weight put on his eyelids, Arto yawns lightly as she closes his eyes, getting into another peaceful slumber with Albedo.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto feeding chibi Albedo pink heart-shaped food)
Arto wakes up once more to see Albedo looking at him from his chest, her eyes staring lovingly into his, her hand rubbing his belly gently, that smile on her face radiances illuminates the room with warmth of love and longing, she opens her mouth, trying to say something but stopped when Arto presses his lips against her, she quickly shifts her position to be on top of him and let his head fall back to the pillow as they keeps their kiss going, Albedo holds his face steady with her hands while Arto wraps his arms around her lower back and squeezes her close to him. The kiss goes on until the 2 lovers feel the need for air as they let each other go, they both pant heavily to get as much air as possible before Albedo rests her forehead against Arto's, "Good morning, my love" she whispers lovingly as she places another kiss on Arto's lips
"Morning, Albedo, how was your sleep?" Arto looks her in the eyes as he poses the question, his voice is a lace of happiness and worry for his beloved. Albedo smiles brightly as she answers "It was wonderful, Arto, having you by my side like this, how could it be a bad sleep?" she lays her head on his chest again and lets out a satisfied sigh "I waited 10 years for this, you know~?" She purrs as her hand starts drawing heart shapes on Arto's chest again and again like a reminder for her beloved master. Arto sees that signal as he reaches his hand up to rub her hair gently like a reassurance "I won't leave you waiting ever again, Albedo, never more, I've seen what I must do, I'll remain by your side like how you always do with me, I'll never let you go again, my love" Albedo's eyes soften hearing those words from Arto "That's all I want to hear, master. Now, show me your devotion by healing me thoroughly with your body"
"Am I not doing so, sleeping with you naked in bed?" Arto asks with a sly smile on his face, Albedo turns to look at Arto with a mischievous grin "You are, indeed, but while this method is wonderful and all in healing me, it's not so it would take a week or two for me to go back to my full power, there is a way better than this, just a few hours and I'll be back at my vibrant old self" Arto's eyes furrow before the words from his love, he leans closer to her for an answer "And what is this miraculous healing method, Albedo?" She answers bluntly "Sex, master, sex"
Arto's breath caught for a moment, his face a mixture of surprise and amusement at Albedo's blunt response. He studied her expression, noting the playful glint in her golden eyes and the sly smile that played on her lips. She was teasing him, but there was also an earnestness in her words that he couldn't ignore "Sex?" he repeated, raising an eyebrow. Albedo's grin widened, her cheeks faintly tinged with a blush as she nodded "How else could a succubus like me heal, Arto~? That's the quickest way to heal a succubus, give her a good sex session, that's something I, as well as other ladies in this harem, have been longing for a long time now, and I want to be the first person you do it to, it would both heal me and mark a massive development in our love. You know I'm still a virgin, right? If I lose my virginity to you, the man I love, not only would I heal, I would get much much more powerful than how I am now, my strength will be amplified by my love for you"
Arto absorbs Albedo's words slowly, but instead of jumping at her and making love to her passionately like most men would do before an inviting seductive succubus like her, Arto turns his face aside, his place etched with embarrassment "I....see, Albedo....but....I've never done this before....I don't know how to "Albedo gasps before Arto's confession "Master, you're saying you've never had sex before? Is that why you didn't make any move on us women no matter how much we invited you, you don't know how to pleasure us?" Albedo can see a little pink blush on Arto's face, signalling what she was saying was true "I died a virgin, you know. I've never had a chance to sleep with a girl in my whole past life, let alone make love to one. My first love and I had to break up before we could even pull anything off, so....."
"Then let me help you, Master" Albedo exclaims, her voice full of determination "Let me guide you through the art of pleasure, my love, I'm a succubus, I know my way with pleasure, I can teach you how to make love to a woman to make her addicted to you. You'll be an expert in no time with my help, not just me, the harem will be pleased knowing you are taking this step in tending to them, now you can both be a caring and passionate lover on and off the bed. Now all I need is you showing me your determination in this, matter, that's all I'm asking for, other things like bed skills can be taught, and your assets can be enhanced with magic. Are you with me in this, Arto?"
Arto took a deep breath, letting Albedo's words sink in. Her earnestness, her determination to help him, and her unshakable love for him all weighed heavily in his chest. He felt the blush on his face deepen as he glanced at her, her golden eyes shining with both affection and resolve "Alright, if this is what you and the ladies want, I'll go with you" Albedo's face brightened hearing the confirmation from her master "You won't regret this, Master. I'll guide you through this, and the final test will be you making love to me as both a teaching fee and a way for you to show your love for me. The women will be pleased knowing you're taking a serious step in taking care of them more intimately and passionately. But first....." Albedo puts on a mischievous smile as she gets into the blanke, Arto can feel Bayonetta's hands trailing down from his chest to his stomach, to his....crotch, he can hear the faint sound of amusement from under the blanket as his little man being touched and examined by Albedo "This is.....unbelievable~.....", "If in normal form it's this size, then when he.....fufufufu~", "The ladies will love you a lot, little man~.......can't wait to wake you up".
Albedo appears again from under the blanket with heart-shaped eyes, she looks at her master with desire written all over her face "I'm done with the assets checking, and I must say, I'm impressed, master. You have all it takes to satisfy a woman in bed, not to mention your insane stamina and strength, you can go do it for a long time, ladies' favorite" Albedo licks her lips "And I'll be the first to experience such pleasure, now master, let's begin our first lesson~...."
Notes:
To be continued.......🍋 incoming
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Albedo appears again from under the blanket with heart-shaped eyes, she looks at her master with desire written all over her face "I'm done with the assets checking, and I must say, I'm impressed, master. You have all it takes to satisfy a woman in bed, not to mention your insane stamina and strength, you can do it for a long time, ladies' favorite" Albedo licks her lips "And I'll be the first to experience such pleasure, now master, let's begin our first lesson~...." Albedo leans in to kiss Arto's lips tenderly before holding his wrist and placing them on her waist, his fingers unconsciously rubbing her smooth skin as Albedo deepens the kiss with her master. The intimate closure becomes more slimy when Albedo pushes her tongue into Arto's mouth, the tongues meet each other as they immediately intertwine, they twirl around each other lovingly, not wanting to let go.
After a few minutes, Albedo finally lets go of her master, she pulls her lips away from him, leaving only a trail of saliva connecting them both. Albedo looks at Arto lovingly while licking her lips "That's a good kiss, Master, I love that~. You effortlessly got a pass in the first lesson on kissing. It seems you haven't lost the skill with your lips and tongue after 10 years, hmmm~?"
Arto remains composed as he answers "Well, some things are harder to forget than others, and your lips was one of them~" Albedo giggles "Flattery can take you anywhere, my love. Now we should move on to the next lesson, we have a lot to cover today and I'm not going anywhere until you know how to make love to a woman properly—" Albedo's gaze shifted to something else on Arto's face "But before we get into any lovey-dovey things, you need to do something for me first"
Arto tilts his head in curiosity "What is it, Albedo?", the raven-haired succubus shifts her stance, puffs her chest out and tells her master "You should start by looking at my body, Master, you have been looking into my eyes the whole time while your succubus has shed all her clothes for her beloved to witness the beauty and allure only he is allowed to see" Hearing Albedo's invitation, Arto's eyes start wandering further down from her beautiful face, taking in the sight of her voluptuous body that has been revealed to him. From her beautiful neck to her sleek collarbone, Arto's eyes made their way down to the soft mounds puffing before his eyes, they were glued to her ample breasts. On those soft breasts are 2 pink, perky peaks, standing out on her creamy white skin like cherries on a vanilla sundae.
"Like what you saw, my love~? This isn't your first time seeing these but your eyes tell otherwise~" Albedo teases as her arms fold under her breasts, pushing them up for Arto to see. Arto gulps before the scene before answering "It's been 10 years since the last time I saw your naked body after all, maybe I just forgot how gorgeous and seductive you are from that—" his voice trails off with a tint of regret in his words. Albedo cups his face and directs it to her eyes "You don't need to mention it anymore, Arto, I've already forgiven you. Now continue your journey down my body, to heal both you and me, to give you an everlasting reminder of how seductive your succubus is"
Arto nods to Albedo's request as his eyes journey down below again, after going through her ample breasts, Arto's eyes land on Albedo's flat stomach, her curvy waist where his hands are resting, Arto's 2 thumbs rub her belly gently "To think one day a little soul will reside inside this belly of yours—" his mind wanders to a far future where she carry his offspring in her, Albedo's gentle, sultry voice add to his stream of thoughts "–it would be a beautiful day for us, and you are walking that path to make that future happen. So complete your journey of reminders, my love, then we can begin the lessons to make the beautiful scene in your mind come to life"
Arto looks further down from Albedo's stomach to see her lower body sitting idly on his crotch, he can feel the softness of her her thighs and her butts on his thighs, his hands move down to hold her hips, and his fingers sink into her skin as giggles can be heard. And in the middle of it all is Albedo's womanhood, cleanly shaved, hovering right above his crotch, he can feel her lower lips kissing his member lightly. After the trip down Albedo's body, Arto looks up to see Albedo's face is full of desire, her heart-shaped eyes showing exactly how much she wants her master, her breath is heavy as she tries to contain herself before the man she loves the most. But there is something about her Arto that is making Albedo curious, he is not hard, like at all, his little man down here is still sleeping despite some good wake-up kisses from Albedo's little girl, which makes Albedo a little worried.
"This is expected, but strange nonetheless" Albedo thinks to herself seeing her master's inactive lower body, but she is not going to give up now, she will make his member rise up no matter what. Albedo grabs Arto's hands which are still enjoying themselves in Albedo's hips "Your journey of reminders has ended, master~. Now, it's time for your second lesson on tending to a woman in bed, you need to know how to handle her breasts, how to make feel good with your hands kneading her soft mounds" With that said, Albedo guides Arto's hands to her breasts, she pressed his hands into her flesh, letting all his fingers sink into her large breasts.
The sensation courses through Arto's body as his fingers dive into her globes like electricity, waking up something deep within Arto's mind, keeping his fingers intact with her breasts, not wanting to let go. Albedo giggles "You like it, don't you~? Now that you have known how good it feels, let your instinct and desire guide you, Arto~"
With her sultry voice leading the way, Arto starts fondling her breasts, his fingers work instinctively on her 2 marshmallow mounds, his fingers press her breasts, earning some light moans from Albedo "Ah~Master, that's it~ Keep going~". Like hearing a command, Arto keeps his hands going, kneading her breasts like 2 pieces of dough in his hands in her moans, which are like cheering sounds, urging Arto to keep going.
Albedo reaches her hands up and places them over his, keeping his palms from going away "How do you like that, my love~? Addicted yet?" Her voice was sultry and inviting, Arto put on a smirk as he nodded as his hands kept playing with her boobs "It's indeed very comfortable, I must say, Albedo. I didn't know how good it felt until now, I can use this as a stress reliever. Will you allow me to, my beloved succubus?"
Albedo giggles "Anytime, my love~ Just voice it and these breasts will be yours to play with as long as you want, I'm always available for you~" the succubus then folds her hands in for good a squeeze "Ahhhhhh~I've always wondered how good it would feel having my master and eternal love squeezing my breasts. I know it now, and I love it so muuch~ But–" Albedo loosens her grips around Arto's hands "–we must move on now, to the next lesson, you can play with my boobs more later"
Arto removes his hands from Albedo chest as his hand marks are redden on her breasts, Albedo looks down at her breasts with a smile "You left quite a mark on my body, my love, but you don't need to look away from my breasts, because your lesson is still on my chest, dear~ Now look at my breasts and tells me what caught your eyes the most?" She asks and Arto looks at her breast and the first thing he sees her perky pink nipples vying for his attention "This?" Arto reaches his index finger up and touches her nipple, watching as it gets hard instantly "It's so sensitive, isn't it?" Albedo nods her head "Yes it is, especially when you touch it like that~. Now, for the next lesson, let's talk about how to handle a woman's nipples. Give me your fingers, let me guide you~"
Her eyes never leave Arto's as she brings his hand back to her breast, placing his index and middle fingers on her nipples. "Now, gently pinch it like you are plucking a flower petal~" Arto follows and squeezes her hard nipple in his finger, earning a yelp from Albedo "Ah~Yes, like that, but just a little bit harder, not too much, it's supposed to be pleasurable, not painful~." Arto does as she says, pinching her nipples gently but firmly, watching as they harden under his touch.
Albedo gasps with pleasure "Ahh~ Yes, just like that~. Keep doing it~, I can feel it down there~. You're doing great~" she praises her master, her voice filled with lust and passion. Her lower body starts moving also as Arto can feel her wetness when she moves back and forth on his crotch, a sign that his touch is working on her. But he doesn't move yet, he continues to listen to Albedo's instructions, to learn how to pleasure her, he reaches his other hand up and pinch her other nipple with his thumb and forefinger, rolling it around as he keeps squeezing it, twisting it, flicking it up and down, Albedo's breath hitches in her throat as she whispers "Mmh~ Yes, keep doing that~. You're getting better, my love~"
But suddenly, Albedo moves Arto's hands away from her nipples, her voice was breathless "That's enough, my love~", Arto tilts his head aside, his eyes filled with curiosity, somewhat worried "What happened, Albedo? Did I hurt you?", Albedo shakes her head "No, master, you didn't hurt me, it's the other way around, you did too well, I had to stop myself before I cum, I want to prolonged this pleasure so I stopped you, and save my cum for something more special" With that said, Albedo takes Arto's arms and pulls him to her, she makes a distance between then as she slides backward from his crotch down to his thighs "Now it's about time for our next lesson, fingering my little girl down here" Albedo said as she touches her cleanly shaved womanhood and opens it for Arto to see with her fingers, revealing the glistening pink flesh inside "See, it's all wet for you~. Now, let's begin the lesson~"
Albedo gently takes Arto's hand and guides it down her lower lip for the first touch, his fingers interacts with her sensitive womanhood as it twitches a littleAlbedo gently takes Arto's hand and guides it down her lower lip for the first touch, his fingers interacts with her sensitive womanhood as it twitches a little "Ahh~ It's cold~ But it's your touch that's making me hot~ Keep going, my love~, let's see how you handle this part of me~, I've been waiting for you to touch me here for 10 years~, don't disappoint me~, I believe in you~"
Her voice is filled with so much longing that Arto feels his heart skip a beat, he doesn't want to disappoint her, so he puts in his full effort, inserting his middle finger into her warm, wet, velvety folds. She's so tight around him that he feels like he's in heaven. He starts to move his finger in and out, feeling the walls of her pussy hugging his finger, Albedo's eyes roll back as she moans out loud "Ah~ Yes~, that's it~, harder~, faster~, I want to feel you deep inside me~!"
Arto complies with her wishes, moving his finger faster and deeper, watching her face contort with pleasure as he does so. Her breathing becomes more erratic, her moans louder, and her body starts to quiver. He can feel her getting closer to her climax, and it's making him excited, he increases his pace and starts dragging his fingertips back and forth her inner walls "Ahh~Arto, you're—Ah~doing so well, I love it, keep going~Ahhh~touch me like that—Mhm~" Arto listens and continues his work with his fingers and her moans getting more intense, he knows she's about to cum, and he wants to make it perfect for her.
Albedo's body tenses up as she reaches the peak of her pleasure, her juices spurt out of her pussy, soaking Arto's hand as she screams his name in ecstasy "Ah~Arto~Yes~Cumming~Ahh~Cumming~!" her body convulses as she reaches her climax, her legs quivering uncontrollably, her hand gripping the bed sheets tightly. Arto can feel his hand soaked wet by her cum, Arto takes his wet hand to his nose to have a little sniff, the smell was erotic but fragrant. Seeing that, Albedo takes his wrist, giving him a suggestion that piques his curiosity "Why don't you give it a little taste, my love~?" Curiosity got the better of him as Arto put his finger in his mouth and gave Albedo's cum a little taste, and he was surprised by the taste "Sweet?" Albedo giggles "It's a succubus's nectar, it's supposed to taste like heaven, isn't it~?" Arto nods "It does taste heavenly, indeed~. Now, I know what your sweetness tastes like~, I want more of it~"
Albedo can feel her arousal rising yet again, but she remain firm "If you want to have more of those heavenly juice, you'll have to work for it starting from up here" the succubus says as she folds her arms under her breasts to push it up to get Arto's attention "You'll need to know how to pleasure a woman with your tongue to earn to right to eat her out, starting from these mounds~" Albedo holds her breasts near Arto's mouth "Now, bon appetit~ my eternal love" Arto opens his mouth to welcome her nipple in, his tongue licking the sensitive area before taking it into his mouth.
The sound of Arto's suckling filled the room as he latched onto her nipple, his tongue dancing around the areola. Albedo's moaning becomes louder, her body writhing under his ministrations. She runs her hands through his hair, holding his head in place as he works his magic on her breasts. "Ah~ Yes~, just like that~, don't stop~, it feels so good~, I've wanted this so much~!" Her words encourage Arto to continue, his mouth switching to the other nipple, giving it the same attention as the first. To add to the pleasure, Arto grabs onto the other breast and starts kneading it with one hand while his other hand reaches down to finger Albedo's wet, sensitive pussy, Albedo's breathes hitch as she tries to remain calm but her body is betraying her "Ah~Master~, your hand feels so good~, don't stop~, I'm going to cum again~!"
Her words spur Arto on, his tongue moving faster and his hand working in sync with his mouth, his thumb circling her clit as his fingers pump in and out of her. Albedo's moans turn into cries of pleasure as she reaches another orgasm, her body convulsing as she rides the waves of ecstasy. Arto's eyes are locked onto Albedo's face, watching every twitch and every expression, savoring the sight of his beloved succubus in the throes of passion.
Albedo's body is on fire, her nipples are so sensitive that it's driving her crazy with pleasure. She can feel her pussy throb in anticipation of his touch. Albedo reaches her hand up to touch his face, her eyes pleading "Enough~, my love~. Let's move to the next part~, I want to feel your tongue down there~ I want you to make me cum by eating me out" she says with a pant.
Arto moves down her body, kissing and licking her stomach, his kisses leaving a trail of fire wherever they land. He reaches her pelvis, his eyes looking up at her for permission, which she gives with a nod. He spreads her legs wider, and his mouth is now mere inches away from her glistening pussy. He takes a deep breath, inhaling her scent, which is intoxicating and arousing at the same time. He dives in, his tongue licking her from bottom to top, savoring her taste, making her squirm and grip the bed sheets even tighter. Albedo's moan is like music to his ears, making him want to give her more, to make her feel even better. He flicks his tongue against her clit, making her buck her hips up into his face. "Ah~ Yes~, Arto~, Yes~!"
Albedo's breathing turns into panting as she feels his mouth on her, his tongue working her clit like a master. She's never felt anything so amazing in her life, and she knows she'll never be able to get enough of it. "Arto~push it inside me, master~" she begs, her voice needy and desperate. Arto obliges, pushing his tongue into her, exploring her depths, tasting her sweetness. Her walls clamp down on his tongue, and he can feel her getting closer to her peak. Suddenly, a turn of event happens when Albedo can feel his tongue getting longer as it reaches deeper and deeper inside her, the tip of his tongue is teasing every corner of her inside and it's reaching her hymen. "What is this?! Your tongue has grown longer~, and it's reaching all the way in~, it's like you're fucking me with your mouth~!" She screams as pleasure overwhelms her, her body shaking violently as she cums. Albedo reaches down to hold Arto's head when she senses he is going to burst through her hymen " But please don't go further and break that wall, my love, it's for later".
The sensation is unlike anything Albedo has ever felt before, and she can feel herself getting closer and closer to the edge with every stroke of Arto's tongue. Her orgasm hits her like a tidal wave, washing over her body and leaving her trembling with pleasure. Arto keeps licking and sucking, not wanting to let the moment end, savoring every drop of her sweetness. As she comes down from her high, Albedo looks down at Arto, her eyes filled with love and lust, Arto looks up to her with a mischievous grin "Like my new spell?" he asks as he leans closer to Albedo, she nods "Like it? I loved it, just didn't expect you to lengthen your tongue to get a full taste of me~ I'm quite addictive, don't you think?" Albedo smirks when she sees her master licking his lips to savour every last drop of her cum "You are indeed very addictive, Albedo,I can't get enough of you~"
With the taste of Albedo still in his mouth, Arto moves up and kisses her deeply, sharing her sweetness with her. Their bodies are entwined, their breath mingling as they kiss passionately. Albedo's hands are in his hair, pulling him closer as their kiss deepens, then her hands move down his body until they reach where his manhood is as she touches it, but it's still soft with no boner taking place, she tries to stroke it, but it doesn't work, Arto's manly member is still sleeping and hasn't woken up yet despite all her effort, he expected it to be fully erected now for the sacred ritual, but it's not here yet "Strange, no boner whatsoever—" Albedo wonders in her mind as she keeps stroking his member in a desperate attempt to make it rise up to her.
Albedo can't hold the questions anymore as she breaks the kiss "Master, what happened?" Arto tilts his head to the side "What happened?" he asks, acting oblivious to the fact that his manhood is not responding as it should be "Your sword, my love, it's not standing tall~. It's been like this for a while and we were all worried about it. Robin said that you're not suffering from any disease that affects your manhood, but it never stands up no matter how much we tried to stimulate it to wake up, stroking, kissing, licking, even sucking when you're sleeping, but none of it worked. We didn't ask you because it was your personal matter and it was quite embarrassing, but here we are now making love and your member is still asleep. So please, tell me, Master, tell me what happened, I can help you, we can help you" Albedo's voice is filled with concern
Arto looks down to his member to see it's still soft and wilt in Albedo's hands as realization hits him"Oh, right, totally forgot about it" he scratches his head "Don't worry, Albedo, I'm not in any curse or disease, my member can rise up just fine, but there is something more to it" Albedo lets go of Arto's cock and leans closer to him "And that is?" her voice filled with curiosity
"You see, Albedo, I have full control over my body, and when I say 'full control', I mean it. No function in my body works without the command of my mind. I learned this thing also to remain composed and calm in meetings to make sure people could never get the better of me by exploiting my emotions, this also helps her fake my feelings" Arto starts by commanding himself to blush by some face movements and he blushes "Here is blush" He says then changes to anger with a few more movements of his face, leading to it getting reddened, Arto furrows his brows to make it looks like he was angry "This is anger" Arto changes again as his face lose color his expression shows clear emotion of fear "This is fear, and many more. I can express whichever emotions I want without having to feel that way"
Arto then takes Albedo's hand and puts it on his chest, she can feel his heart beating normally, until it suddenly slows down and then stops entirely. His skin grows colder as his body temperature drops and his breathing stops, Albedo's face changes from curiosity to panic as she holds Arto's cold face in her palms "Arto? ARTO!? Master....master!? What happened to you? MASTER!?" She shakes Arto back and forth as Arto bursts out laughing, his body heats up again and his heart goes back to normal "Don't worry, my love, I'm not dying or anything, this is what I was talking about, I can control everything about my body, even my heartbeat and my temperature~ They are huge help in situation where I have to play dead or stay still to maintain my stealthiness. Among them, erection is one of the things I learned to control, to hold my libido and desire back to wave off charming attempts. This is why I can't erect normally, I need a certain formula of body movements to activate it and I totally forgot it, it was the last thing I learnt but also the first thing I forgot due to how little I had to use it"
Arto makes a distance with Albedo "So if you excuse me, I'll have to find my way to erect again, sorry for ruining the mood of our session" Arto then starts doing some weird movements on the bed much to Albedo's amusement and curiosity, his manhood still sleeping "What are you doing, master? Are you trying to do a dance to wake it up?" Albedo asks with a smirk, trying to lighten up the mood. Arto laughs "Not quite, just some right muscle movements and I can be there, it's just that I forgot it" Arto answers as he keeps doing his bizarre movements "Was it.....no, no.......that's not it.......how about........nope, that one is for goosebumps......." Albedo giggles seeing her master struggling, it's quite adorable that way, a battle-hardened warrior trying to figure out how his body works in this weird situation.
Finally, after a couple of minutes of weird flexes and muscle movements, Arto's manhood starts to stir, it rises up and it's standing tall, a proud 9-inch sword, it's girth thick and veiny, it's a beautiful sight for Albedo's eyes, she can't believe she's seeing it before anyone else in the harem "Master, it's up, it's up! It's standing tall, I can't believe it, it has woken up~!" Albedo exclaims, her hand immediately wraps around it and starts stroking it gently "Good day to you, little big man, I've been waiting to see you for a while now, and seeing you now, I know I won't regret this" she says with a smirk before giving Arto's throbbing member a little kiss and looks up at him while her hand keeps stroking "Does it feel good, master~?". Arto nods to her question "It does, surprisingly good, but there's more to it, right?"
Albedo giggles "Yes, master, now lay yourself down, let me pleasure you like how you made your succubus scream your name" Arto complies and lays down with his cock standing tall and proud like a pillar. Albedo wastes no time as she takes his cock in her hand and starts stroking it gently up and down in a rhythm, but this time, she starts licking its length, sending a jolt of pleasure straight to her lover's brain "Mhmm~, you're so delicious~, I've always wanted to taste this~" she says seductively as she keeps licking. Arto's eyes roll back in pleasure as he feels Albedo's warm mouth enveloping his cock, her tongue swirling around the tip, her teeth grazing the underside gently.
It's the first time he's felt this way, he can feel his control slipping as his hips start to move in sync with her mouth, her hand still stroking him as her mouth works its magic. She takes his whole length into her mouth, her cheeks hollowing out as she sucks him deep, her throat taking him in and her tongue still working its way around his cock. The feeling is overwhelming, he's never felt so alive before, his eyes are closed and his mouth is open in a silent moan, his hand moves to the back of her head, guiding her movements.
"Ah~Albedo~, that's it~, keep going~, your mouth feels so good~!" Arto warns her as his body tightens up, but Albedo only speeds up, eager to taste his cum, her eyes never leaving his, filled with love and lust. He can feel the warmth spreading through him, building up in his balls, he was about to cum to his desire but he holds them all back with a clear intention of prolonging this pleasure for as long as possible. Feeling his cum building up but held back by something, Albedo releases his cock from her mouth "Are you holding back, master? You think you can hold yourself against me?" She asks with a smirk, Arto looks back at her with the same grin "Try me, love, let's see how good of a succubus you are, and let me tell you, I can hold myself back really well"
Albedo takes the challenge, she moves her body and straddles her lower body to Arto, her pussy hovering over his face, she starts to rub her clit against his cheek "Master~, I dare you to make me cum first~, let's see how long you can last~!" Arto takes the bait and starts licking her pussy with the same enthusiasm as before, his tongue moving in and out of her, flicking her clit as his hands hold her ass cheeks, spreading them apart to give him a better view of her wetness.
Albedo feels the sensation coursing through her body as his tongue and fingers playing with her pussy as she starts sucking his cock, utilizing all her skills to make him cum, she takes all of his length in her mouth, her hands one strokes his sharp in sync with her mouth while the other teasing his ballsack, cupping them in her hand and twirling them around gently while her mouth is full of his cock, but with Arto picking up the pace from the other side with his fingers and tongue bringing her to the lost "I'll have to do faster" she thinks to herself, so the succubus lets go of his cock and squeezes it in between her breasts as she starts pumping it up and down, the tip of his member isn't left alone as she takes it in her mouth and starts sucking it passionately.
Arto from the other side stops his advance when sensing the incredible pleasure from his member, its length was wrapped in between soft, comfortable mounds while his tip is being pleasured by Albedo's warm and wet mouth "Damn! You're incredible my love" Arto gasps as another suck from Albedo pulls his semen closer to the entrance, Arto can feel his cum threatening to burst out, but he quickly regains his composure and continues his work with Albedo's pussy, his fingers work harder with her walls while his tongue goes deeper into Albedo's womanhood, he can feel Albedo is losing her ground in this challenge, he only needs to keep this pace and outlast her then he is gonna win.
The two of them are now locked in a battle of wills, each one trying to make the other cum first, their moans and gasps filling the air as they pleasure each other, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. The tension in the room is palpable as they both edge closer to their peak, but neither one wants to give in, both are too stubborn to be the first to cum. But Albedo's body is succumbing to the pleasure Arto's tongue is bringing to her, she can feel it, she's about to cum, she can't hold it any longer, she's going to lose the bet she made with her master. "Master~, I'm going to cum~! I'm going to cum!~ Ahh~ Yes~! Yes~! Cum with me, my love~!" she cries out, her pussy clenching around his tongue, her juices spilling out as she has an earth-shattering orgasm.
Her body shakes and convulses as Arto continues to lick and suck her clit, not giving her any reprieve, making her orgasm even more intense. Finally, with a last shudder, she collapses on top of him, her breasts bouncing as she gasps for breath, her body limping from pleasure. Arto smirks under her, victory is his, but he knows the real battle begins now, with Albedo's orgasm done, it's his turn to show her how good he can be with his mouth and hands. He's going to make her scream his name again and again until she begs for mercy. He's going to show her that even a warrior like him can be a beast in bed.
After a few minutes, Albedo regains herself and turns back to her master, her eyes filled with lust and pleasure, her body still shaking from the last cum "You've won, my love~ How will you enjoy this victory~?" she purrs as her arms wrap around his neck, Arto smirks as he reaches his hand up to cup her beautiful face "I'll enjoy this victory with your breasts and mouth wrapped around my cock, I loved that move you pulled~" he leans closer to her ears and whispers "If you do well, you'll get the semen you've been craving the whole day"
Hearing that, Albedo smiles and kisses Arto on his lips "I see~ Then lay back, my love~ Let me claim my prize" Arto listens and lays himself back to the hospital bed, Albedo moves down and wraps her boobs around his cock and starts pumping them up and down, her tongue licking the tip every time it comes out of her cleavage, she's giving him the same treatment she gave earlier. Arto's hand moves to her hair, stroking it gently as he watches his cock disappear and reappear in her breasts, his hips moving with her rhythm.
"Aghh~Yes, that's good~Goodness, your breasts are heavenly my love~Keep going" Arto talks between gasps as his cock time after time got lost in the softness of Albedo's breasts, the sensation is added by her mouth and tongue, licking around his sensitive peak, covering cock in her saliva and doing her all to pull his semen out of his cock. Arto can hold longer than this but seeing his beloved succubus trying her best, he lets go of the control and releases his semen into her mouth with a roar, he explodes in her mouth, filling it with his warm, sticky semen, she swallows it all, her eyes never leaving his, her cheeks bulging as she does so.
Albedo doesn't let go of his cock as she keeps it in her mouth and keeps sucking to make sure none of this load is left. Arto can hear her swallowing sound as she consumes all his semen, even performing a few more sucks to get the last drop in her mouth. After that she lets go of his cock with a pop as her cheeks flush "Mhhm~That was delicious~Love you, master" she says with a smile. Arto looks at his smiling succubus "Love you too, Albedo, I'm glad you like it. But still I have to ask, was it really that delicious?" Albedo nods "Well, to me, it is, I don't know about other women, but to us succubus, semen is the best treat. And to me as a virgin succubus, my man's seed isn't just the best food, it's one of the things that keeps me alive and helps me regain my strength" she says with a gentle kiss to his cheek "And that load of cum was like a feast, I loved it, it healed me a lot from what happened between us and my power is coming back faster this way"
Arto nods to Albedo's answer as a wonder comes to his mind "Wait, so if you're wounded....." Albedo nods "Yes, master, you just need to feed me with your cum, into my mouth or into my womanhood or even my ass, they all work, even better than healing potions, but it must be your semen, it would only work when it's you, my beloved master. I've pledged myself to you completely heart and soul so only your love can and is allowed to do the magic to my body" Albedo lays down besides Arto and rests her head on his chest, her finger starting trailing a heart shape on his chest as she sighs in satisfaction. Arto's hand rests on her butt cheek and starts kneading it gently. Albedo looks at her master with a grin "You haven't had enough, have you my love? Still want more~?" Arto looks at her and kisses her on the forehead "Of course I want more, you made me feel heaven and I am not ready to leave. I'm eager to learn the last lesson of pleasing women, when will you teach me, my beloved succubus~?"
Albedo giggles as she moves her hand from Arto's chest to cup his face "Eager one, aren't we~? I'll teach you eventually, love~But only after a little rest, you've made me cum 3 times today after all" her voice teasing as she reaches down her womanhood to rub it and insert her fingers into her wet pussy. After a few slight moans, Albedo pulls her wet fingers out to place on Arto's lips, activating his libido with her sweet nectar "My pussy is wet enough for the last lesson, also the longest one, so rest now, have a little nap, my master. When you wake up, we will move to the last lesson of the day" Arto nods as his body relaxes, his cock is deactivated and goes back to sleep, Albedo clings closer to him as her comfortable, exotic smell invades his nose, his eyelids get heavier and heavier as he pulls the blanket to cover them both and falls asleep with his Albedo by his side
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Albedo sleeping together)
Arto's eyes flutter open to see Albedo is already up and is looking at him with her gentle smile, she places a light kiss on his chest "You're up, my love~Are you ready for the final lesson today?" Arto smiles as he leans down to kiss Albedo on her head "More than ready, my dear~Show me how things go" Albedo nods as she climb on top of Arto and leans down to him, "Tell me, my love, do you want to be on top or me?" Arto's mind races for a moment before deciding "Let's start with me on top, I want to take you, claim you as my woman, as my succubus, as my everything, and then we can switch later if you want" Albedo smirks "As you wish, my love~But remember, I'm your instructor, so you need to be gentle and listen to my words, okay?"
With that said, Arto flips Albedo over, her legs spread wide, her pussy glistening in the dim light of the room, inviting Arto to take her, to claim her, to make her his, and he doesn't waste any time. He positions himself over her, his cock at the entrance of her wet tunnel, Arto looks at Albedo for her order, the succubus nods to allow her master in, Arto takes a breath as he slowly inserts his manhood into her pussy, the wetness of her inside makes his cock slide in easily without any resistance, he can feel her warm, soft walls wrapped around his sharp, drawing him in more and more. As he was going in, he met resistance, like a wall placed in front of his way, Arto looked at Albedo for confirmation as she blushed "That's my virginity, master~I've been saving it for you, it's yours to take, Arto, push gently. Once you're through, I'll be yours completely and wholly, my eyes will never be set on any other man than you, my heart will never fluster for any other man but you, my body, heart, and soul will belong to you till eternity, my one and only love~"
Arto can feel the weight of her words, this is the final step to claim a virgin succubus as his own, Arto looks into Albedo's eyes to see the eagerness, anticipation and happiness "So you truly want to be mine till eternity, Albedo? Are you sure? There is no turning back from here on" Arto asks one more time for the final consent, Albedo reaches her hand up to touch his heart "Yes, Arto, I want to be yours till eternity, forever and ever. I'm well aware of what would come after this, I'll never be able to leave you no matter what you do to me, but I know for sure, you'll never mistreat me, never abandon me, never abuse me, your love for me is pure and kind, gentle and unwavering, loyal and steadfast, you saved me, gave me a home, taught me how to defend myself, and most importantly, love me as who I am, how could I ever imagine loving another man? I've chosen my partner, will you choose me to be your eternal love?"
Seeing the reassurance in Albedo's eyes, Arto has no reason to deny her desire, he gathers his strength and pushes through her hymen, breaking the wall of her virginity "AHHHHH!~" Albedo lets out a painful scream as her back arches upwards, her eyes tearing up and all her walls clasp around Arto tightly, Arto can see blood flowing out of her tunnel, he stops his advance immediately, but he can't pull it out either, he can only witness his Albedo in pain. After a few minutes, Albedo calms down and looks at Arto's worried face "It's okay now, my love, you can keep going, we've reached this far, don't pull back now. Complete your journey inside me to claim this succubus as your own" Arto slowly moves forward as his member sinks deeper and deeper into Albedo's vagina, Albedo has loosened the squeeze of her walls so Arto's journey inside is smoothly comfortable.
After the last length of his cock was inside Albedo, he could feel the end of the tunnel right in front of his tip as it lightly kissed the entrance of her womb. Suddenly, Arto sees an enormous surge of power exude from Albedo's body, it was so strong Arto was taken aback by it "Albedo? What happened?" He looks at his succubus and sees that she is looking at him with a smile "I've been unlocked, my master, you've unlocked all my power by claiming me as your own. Now, my power will be amplified by the love I have for you. The pain has disappeared when you kiss my womb with your cock, Arto~ Now what remains is only pure pleasure, the pleasure only you can bring me. Now pick up your pace, master~Fuck me like you own me"
Arto nods as he starts to move his hips back and forth, sliding his cock in and out of Albedo's tight pussy, her walls now tightening around him with every stroke, her moans become more frequent and intense, her breasts bouncing with every thrust, her nails digging into the bed sheets as she arches her back. "Ah~Yes~That's it~More~Harder~I'm yours~All yours~Take me~Ahh~Fuck me, Arto~Make me your succubus~I'm yours~Only yours~Master~!" Albedo's voice is filled with pleasure and love as Arto does exactly that, he claims her, he takes her, he makes her his, with every deep and powerful thrust, he can feel her pussy getting wetter and wetter, her walls tightening around him like a vice, begging for his cum.
Their eyes lock together as they reach their climax, the room is filled with their cries of pleasure, the sound of flesh slapping against flesh, the sweet scent of love making in the air. Arto's hand goes to Albedo's clit, rubbing it in sync with his thrusts, making her orgasm even more intense. "Cum for me, my love~I want to feel your warmth inside me~Ahh~Yes~Cum now~Master~Cum for Albedo~!" Albedo cries out as she reaches her peak, her pussy clamping down around Arto's cock, her orgasm waves crashing over her. Arto's eyes widen as he feels her pussy milk his cock, pushing him over the edge, he roars as he releases his seed deep inside her, filling her up, marking her as his, forever.
Their bodies tremble together, their hearts racing, their breath mingling as they come down from their shared high. Arto leans down and kisses Albedo deeply, her arms wrapping around his neck, her legs around his waist, never wanting to let go "I love you, my Albedo~" Arto talks between his pants with a light peck on her lips followed. Albedo giggles and replies by a loving kiss "And I love you too, my Arto Abyssgard~" The 2 fall down the bed once more, with their bodies intertwined, his cock is still buried deep inside her pussy, Arto lets out a sigh "That was amazing, your pussy was like made for me" Albedo chuckles before replying "Because it was indeed made for you, master. The moment my love was set for you, my body morphed a little, and my pussy changed itself to match your length and thickness, that's why you can insert your little man inside me that easily" she says with a grin.
"You shouldn't expect the same pleasure from other women, only I can morph my body to fit your size, there will be more or less resistance when you have sex with Rias, Akeno, Robin, Grayfia, Nami, and Sona, but only my pussy could fit your cock perfectly like this" Albedo explains to Arto, he nods "I see, so each woman would have a different fitting size, yes?" Albedo nods "Indeed master, a fitting cock can bring the most pleasure for both the woman and the man, too big would pain them and too small would discourage them" Albedo explains, Arto then asks "Can you list out for me the fitting size of each of them, you know them, right?" he asks, Albedo eagerly nods "Yes, master, let's start with Rias, her pussy is tight but not as tight as mine, it's like a glove, fitting perfectly to your size, Nami's pussy is tighter than Rias's but can stretch wider, Sona's pussy is the tightest of all, it's like a second virgin pussy, but once it's broken, it's heaven, Robin's pussy is not so tight, perfect for pounding, Akeno's is a bit loose, but she can tighten it up with her muscles to match your size, and that of Grayfia is a bit larger than average, she can handle a large size cock like yours with ease, but it's a different kind of pleasure, it's like being wrapped by a warm, wet pillow, it's very comfortable~"
Listening to Albedo's list, Arto pulls his cock out of Albedo's pussy, the member is still covered in cum from their last round, and Albedo quickly moves to his cock to clean it with her mouth. After a few attempts, his cock is perfectly cleaned. But before she can continue their sex session, Arto stops her "Hold on, Albedo, let me try something" Albedo nods and waits for her master's next action. Arto focuses his muscle to morph his cock with his control over his body. Albedo's eyes widen seeing his penis change in size easily from his will, after a little bit, his cock is in a different shape with the same thickness and a bit shorter in length, "This one is for Rias, what do you think, Albedo?" Albedo nods "It's a good start, but you need to straighten it a little bit more over here and decrease the thickness a bit here. Also, the length should be 5mm shorter if you want to fit her perfectly" she points out and Arto makes his changes "There we go, this one would make Rias scream and beg for more"
Arto takes note of this cock size and the adjustments he needs to do to make it appear when he wants to have sex with Rias "Alright, let's move to others" and from a sex session, the 2 seamlessly move to an experimental session where Arto make adjustments to his cock to fit each of his woman's vagina according to Albedo, from Akeno with a cock a little thicker and more veiny, to Grayfia with a cock a bit more curved and thicker than average, to Nami with a cock that can match her flexibility but a bit shorter in length, to Robin with a cock that has a slight curve to hit her g spot easily, and finally to Sona with a cock that is thinner than his original but maintains the same length, a perfect fit for her tight pussy.
Every time Arto changes his cock size, Albedo would give him feedback, making sure that every one of his women will be satisfied in bed. This goes on for hours, until Arto has made sure he knows how to pleasure each and every one of his women, Albedo nods "Good job, master, with this you'll never leave them unsatisfied in bed, I'm proud of you~. But now, let's get back to what we were doing before, shall we?" she winks at him, her hand reaching down to grab his cock again, which is now back to its original size, a sign she wants to continue their love making, Arto smiles, eager to start again.
But before he could move, Albedo pushes him back down the bed and climbs on top of him, his cock is squeezed between her ass cheeks as she massages for his sword with a smirk "Now it's about time I show you why this lesson is the longest, we will try a lot of sex positions, you've got the cock that can satisfy any need of your women, now it's the skill that you need to learn, and we can start by this position, the Cowgirl" Albedo says as she straddles Arto's waist, her pussy hovering above his cock, and then she sits down, taking him in her again, and starts to rock her hips back and forth, her breasts bouncing in front of his face, inviting him to play with them again. Arto eagerly complies, using his hands to squeeze her breasts as she rides him, their moans filling the room once again as they find their rhythm together.
Albedo quickens her pace as she rides Arto harder, her moans grow more intense and full of lust "Ah~Ah~Ah~Your cock feels so good, master~I can't~Ah~hold any longer~Ah~I'm cumming~Cum with me, master~" she cries out, and with that, they reach their second climax together, their bodies shaking with pleasure as they come in sync, her pussy is once again filled with Arto's seed. But Albedo isn't satisfied yet, she gets off him and turns around, her ass pointing at Arto's cock, she wiggles it "How about we try doggy style now, my love~?" she asks with a devilish grin.
Arto nods with excitement, eager to learn more about his women's preferences in bed. He gets behind Albedo and slides his cock into her pussy from behind, feeling the warm, wetness of her insides, her walls hugging him tightly. He starts to thrust, the sound of their skin slapping together echoing in the room. "Ah~Yes~That's it~Deeper~Faster~I'm yours~All yours~Master~!" Albedo cries out with each thrust, pushing back into him, her body begging for more. Arto's hand reaches forward to play with her breasts, kneading them professionally and plays with her nipples, adding to her pleasure as he fucks her from behind, making sure to hit her g-spot with every thrust.
Their love making is intense and passionate, each movement calculated to bring the maximum pleasure to the other, each touching a declaration of love and desire. They try out more positions, each one bringing them closer to each other, each orgasm a bond that ties them tighter, until finally, they collapse on the bed, their bodies sticky with sweat and cum, their hearts beating as one. They lay there, holding each other close, their breaths mingling as they share a gentle kiss.
Albedo looks down at Arto's cock, seeing it's still hard and eager for more sex, Albedo was surprised "Master, you have such a strong cock, it refused to go down after 15 rounds we did, and it seems it still wants more of me, shall we do another doggy round? Or do you like reverse cowgirl? Or a round with my ass? Another boobjob would do too. You name it, master, I'll do it for you~" she purrs, inviting him to take her, continuing their endless sex session. Arto smirks and looks at Albedo "You really think you can make it go down, Albedo? This man here will never go down unless I allow him to, meaning I can have sex with you as long as I want, even until I'm utterly exhausted, if I didn't give my command, my cock would never go to sleep, my sperm can run out from being drained by you, or by other women in the future, but you can never defeat my cock if I don't allow it"
"That's what I want to hear, love~" Arto and Albedo turn to the door to see Robin is standing there with Arto's harem behind her, each have different expression on their face, while Robin puts on a smirk looking at the scene before her, Rias and Sona both blush bashfully, Akeno licking her lips with a mischievous grin, Grayfia has a faint blush on her stoic face, and Nami is playing with her hair with a shy smile, all of them looking at Arto and Albedo with anticipation, their eyes filled with love and desire for the man they all share.
Robin was the first to come to the hospital bed where Arto and Albedo had just spent their times together, she sits down near the 2 and gets a hold of Arto's cock in her hand, she strokes it up and down with a grin "A sword that never breaks and can change to fit any circumstances, this is indeed very interesting, Arto" She leans closer to Arto's face "Show me again what you made for me, love, the member you saved for me~" Arto was taken aback by her words "Again? You don't mean—" Robin puts on a mischievous grin "Of course we watched it, and I must say, your bed skills developed quickly with Albedo guiding you. We had a great time watching you go, the ladies here were all aroused and excited seeing you fucked Albedo so professionally like that" Robin gestures to the women gathering in the room who are all blushing, a little too much when it comes to Nami, Rias and Sona
Then Robin turns back to Arto who looks relatively worried "But we have seen enough, 15 passionate rounds with Albedo and we think it's about time you apply what you learned to us. After all, it's not just Albedo you neglected, you left us waiting outside of the simulation room for a month without a word about you after all" Arto looks to aside, trying to avoid their gaze when the fact about his mistake was brought back. Grayfia comes to Arto and directs his face back "Well, master, now that you've made up a good part for Albedo, don't you think it's our turn as well, no~?" She said in warm, caring tone as she places a kiss on Arto's forehead, Akeno chimes in as well "Grayfia's right, it's time for you to show us some love, and what's better than this~" she said as she touches Arto's member "I still remember that one shape you made for me, and I dare say, it would fit in perfectly~"
Arto sighs and looks at Sona, Albedo and Nami "You 3 also want this?" 3 ladies blush hard, Rias was the first to raise her voice "I...I..don't mind if it's you, Arto, it's just.......I don't know how to put it. But I want our first time to be a little more special, so I'll sit this one out" Arto nods and turns to Sona "What about you, Sona? Do you want to do this or these 3 just pulled you here?" Sona averts Arto's gaze "I just wanted to see you, I didn't expect for it to come to this, I admit I do want it when I saw you did it to Albedo, but I'll go with Rias this time, I want our time to be a little more special" Arto lets out a relief sigh "That's 2 out, and you, Nami? You sure want to do this? Even after.......'that'?" Nami's face darkened as she turned away "You didn't need to dig that deep, Arto. And the answer is no, I came here to see you and talk to you about something, not for this" her voice filled with concealed grief.
Arto puts on his clothes and comes closer to Nami to hug her from behind "I'm so sorry for mentioning it, I didn't mean to hurt your feelings" she shakes her head "You don't need to apologize, it happened after all, it's just......" her words stuck at her throat, not being able to come out, Arto tightens his hugs around her "....painful, I know" his hand reaches up to brush away her tears "I'm so sorry, love~" he whispers in her ears, she takes deep breath and turns back to hug Arto, her face buried in his chest "Don't be, you came home to me after all, and that's enough for now, you can make up for me later when listening about what I've been doing since last month. For now—" Nami places a kiss on Arto's lips, he returns the favor with no less passionate kiss, when they lips are apart, Nami says "–I can't be here, I'm sorry" Nami leaves the room and heads down the hall of the hospital
"Why did you bring her here, Robin? You knew too well what happened to her" Robin sighs as she comes to hug Arto from behind "I wanted to give her a better, different view of this, just didn't expect you to dig it up" Rias comes to Arto "What were you 2 talking about, what happened to Nami?" Arto sighs "It's for another time, I don't want to burden you all with tragedy on a day where we meet again after a month of my absence" Sona comes to Arto "We will refrain for now. But you need to promise us to tell the truth, because Nami is not just our friends, she is our sister, and if there is anything we can help, we need to know where to start" Arto places a kiss on each of Rias and Sona's lips "I appreciate your concern and care, I promise you, when the time is right, I'll tell you what I know"
Grayfia comes to Arto with her stoic demeanor "So what do we do with Nami now?" she asks, clearly worried for the vault keeper of the family, Arto answers "We'll leave her be for now, I'll talk to her after this and send her my most sincere apology, I digged up what I shouldn't and mentioned in the worst time, it's me who is at fault here, sorry for ruining the mood for you all" But before they could do anything, the door slid open, revealing Doctor Faunas, she walks in with a tablet on her hand "Not so fast people, refrain all your intimate engagement, especially you 5 women" she gestures to Robin, Rias, Sona, Akeno, and Grayfia "Your man still needs his rest to regain his health, I only allowed him to spend intimate time with Albedo to help her heal. Besides, this is a hospital, are you all really going to have sex here?" she asks with her stoic voice, then Faunas turns to Sona "Especially you, Lady Sona, you should have stopped them from committing such thing in our hospital, Lady Sitri won't be happy knowing her daughter is engaging in such activity even before her eventual marriage with Arto here"
Sona's face loses color as she comes to Faunas "Professor Julia, this is not what it looked like, I only came to see my fiance, nothing more, nothing less, I had no intention of doing anything with him. Right, Arto?" the Abyssgard nods fiercely when Sona looks at him "See? So please don't tell my mother about this, I've had enough of her long lecture" Sona almost pleads Julia to keep this away from Lady Sena Sitri's ears, seeing the innocence in Sona's words and the firm assurance from Arto, Faunas sighs "If that's the case, I won't push this matter any further, but you should leave the patients to rest and take your desire home and wait till the day he is discharged, or else Lady Sena will be informed about this matter and I'm sure she won't be happy knowing depraved things like these were happening right inside her hospital" With the statement made loud and clear, Faunas walks to Arto and Albedo, who are still on the bed "How are you feeling now, Albedo?" she asks with professionalism in her voice and posture
Albedo puts on a smile as she answers "I feel great, my healing has improved a lot, all thanks to my beloved master" Faunas nods and turns to Arto "Well, since Miss Albedo's condition has improved, it's about time you return to your room, mister Abyssgard. The recovery of yours the last few days has been wasted when you wore yourself out to assist Miss Albedo's recovery. So you'll be moved back to your room" Hearing this, Albedo immediately hugs Arto possessively "NO! Arto isn't going anywhere, he is staying here with me, I love him, and he loves me, his love heals me and all. How could you have us apart?" Faunas shakes her head and answers "I know your love, Miss Albedo, but keeping Mister Abyssgard here would halt his recovery since you can't keep your desire in check when around him, leaving him with you is dangerous for his health at the moment, so I hope you understand" Albedo tries to protest, but Robin steps in "That's enough, Albedo, you've had your fill with him, it's about time we let him get his rest" Rias chimes in as well "Indeed, you've drained him so much he in nothing short from a dry fish now. He needs to heal too, you know?
Albedo pouts, clearly unpleasant but can't protest, Arto turns to her and places a kiss on her cheek "It won't be long, Albedo, I'll come visit you everyday, okay?" her face lights up as she jumps at him "It's a promise". As the 2 were hugging, Faunas turns to Grayfia "You're his maid right?" Grayfia nods "I am". Faunas gives her a list of food "He'll need these nutritions to recover, you can find them in these ingredients, make him good hearty meals, he has been through a lot after all" Grayfia receives the list and reads through it "I see, I'll prepare a lot of dishes for master Arto". Faunas then turns to Robin "keep an eye on him for me, alright? Especially when he visits Albedo, it's hard to tell what she might do to win him over" Robin reassures Faunas "Don't worry, Doctor, I've had my eyes on him every moment"
Lastly, Faunas turns to Rias, Akeno and Sona "As for you 3, you have school to attend to, so don't worry too much about Arto, he is in good hands, and also–" Faunas pulls out her phone to show Rias and Sona 2 pictures of 2 tables full of papers, Rias' table has Kuroka sleeping on it while Sona's one is having Tsubaki lying on the table with swirly eyes"–works await, you've delayed your duty for a month regarding Arto's matter and no one has been dealing with them" Rias, Akeno and Sona all go pale seeing their paperwork, Faunas stores her phone away "Well, you 3 had better start moving, or else by the time you return, the would be a mountain of paper in your offices"
Akeno, Rias and Sona immediately teleport back with their sigils, leaving Arto, Albedo, Robin and Grayfia behind, Arto sighs and looks at Grayfia who has prepared a wheelchair for him to sit, he takes his seat on the chair as Grayfia pushes him out of the room, Albedo comes to him and places one last kiss on his cheek "Remember to come visit me, okay?" Arto chuckles "You're saying like I'm heading to another country, I'm right down the hall. You can come visit me anytime" Albedo scoffs "That's more than far for me, I want to go with you to your room and spend our time there"
"Not so fast, Albedo" Robin says with a voice filled with authority "You heard the doctor, keep your desire in check, I'll keep an eye on you. And don't think for a moment that I'll let you do anything you want with Arto" the harem's leader states as she follows Grayfia and Arto out of the room, leaving a pouting Albedo behind "Fine, I'll wait for you, my love~!" she says as they leave her sight. Arto looks back and waves goodbye to her, his heart feeling a bit torn because he can't take her with him, but knowing she's safe and sound with Robin here, he relaxes a bit more.
Notes:
That's the end of it, my first lemon chapter. This will probably be the only lemon this long in the entire story since this is our MC's first time, I'll reduce the volume and details in the future.
If you're uncomfortable with lemons, feel free to skip this chapter
Lastly, we are almost done with the build-up up and we'll head into the main storyline in about 2 or 3 more chapters
Goodbye for now and see you in the next chapter
Chapter 28: The portal
Summary:
A new addition of possibility
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Arto POV
"Arto! I came to see you" Nami barges into the room with a box of bento on her hand, she is back to her cheerful self, like what I said the other day didn't matter at all as she hugs me and buries my face in her chest like usual, happy and buzzling with joy like nothing happened. I can feel my stomach churning seeing her so happy like this, she isn't mad at me for what I said, she isn't sad anymore. "How are you feeling?" she asks as she takes a seat beside my bed, her smile never leaving her face.
"I'm better now thanks to the doctors and you girls coming to visit me everyday with these delicious bento boxes" I answer with a forced smile, it's hard to look at her after what I said the other day. But Nami doesn't seem to care as she hands me the bento box "I see, then I'll make sure to bring you bento everyday until your discharge" the bento was followed by a kiss, a light peck on my lips from Nami, it's still that tangerine sweetness from her lips, I can feel my face burn up a little with such a sudden kiss, she smiles "Why blushing, love~? This is not our first kiss, you know" she teases me with her usual cheerfulness.
"Well, it's just what I said before, I'm so sorry, Nami, for bringing it up, I know it's—" she places another kiss on my lips, silencing me then and there "–over and I've moved on, so stop mentioning it and eat up, or else you'll never get out of here to return to Kuoh to ace the final test". "Final test?" I ask confusedly, Nami pulls out a schedule and shows me "It's already the end of the school year already, have you forgotten that you're a high school student? You seem to have forgotten everything after that 10 years in the simulation room"
Realization hits me like a train, I still have school at Kuoh Academy and finals are approaching. Ten years in the simulation felt like an eternity, but in the real world, only a month has passed, I scratch my head "Haha, I totally forgot I'm still a student by name, don't you worry, I'll come back to school in a few days for the test" Nami reaches her hand out and take mine "You really should, people have been missing you, well, us, mostly, but the boys might not enjoy your return very much, I've heard them cheering your absence like that was the best time of their lives, especially that brown-haired pervert. Too bad you'll have to end their parade soon" she giggles
Hearing about the perverts, especially that brown-haired one, Arto leans in to ask Nami "Have he and his friends been disturbing you, Nami? Or any of my beloved, I'll make sure to teach them a lesson" my brows twitch as I recall the time when Issei and his perverted friends took sneaky pictures of Nami when she was bathing at school, my anger boiling in my head, but Nami pulled me back to reality "There wasn't much to worry, Arto. We had the perverts annihilator you created, Hamuda-senpai with us, they didn't dare. He has been a great help for us and other girls, and guess what, he has found himself a girlfriend" My eyes widen "Has he really come that far? How fascinating, tell me about her". Nami nods with a knowing smile "She is a girl from Kendo club, Asami Koichi, 3rd year like him, she was moved by his heroic actions in protecting the girls from perverts and so they started their relationship from then on, she has been helping him with his study while she is her personal bodyguard, they are a really romantic couple, you should go and see for yourself" she said with a giggle.
"I see, it seems Hamuda-senpai has had one hell of a journey, from a bully to an upstanding man and now a boy in love, it's indeed interesting. I didn't know I missed so much in just a month" my voice trails off, I was too absorbed in my project I abandoned everything around me, Nami tightens her grip on my hand to snap me out "You just didn't pay attention to it, the 2 have been dating for a few months even before your absence, you were so occupied with us and your lab, so look up from the books and tabs sometimes, you'll see how far people have developed, well, except for those 3 perverts" Nami's voice was cheerful with a tint of despise when mentioning Issei and his group "But Hamuda-senpai is going to graduate soon, so it's either you turning another bully into a protector or you'll have to do that task of protecting us beautiful lovers of yours yourself, what will you choose?"
"I'll see what I can do against those perverts, maybe just reporting them to the police is the best choice, but where is the fun in that?" I tease, making Nami's smile get mischievous and she leans closer to me "What kind of pranks are you thinking of, genius~? Getting the kendo girls to teach them another lesson, releasing dogs to chase them down or deactivate their boners?" her smile darkens, it seems she still remembers the time she used magic to make Issei couldn't get hard for a week, the boy's face was a bundle of shame though hidden "It was so much fun, you should've seen that guy's face" A smile finds its way to my face "It seems you had a lot of fun, but first, let's enjoy this meal" I open the bento box to see the usual delicious meal, the theme color today is orange–Nami's color
"You really outdid yourself today, love~This looks and smells fantastic" I praise her, Nami puffs her chest up "Of course I did, I didn't take cooking lessons of Grayfia for nothing. Oh, there's more—" she reaches in her magical vault to pull out a cake "–this is the dessert I made" she pushes the cake before my face as the fragrance of tangerine flocking my nose "Wow, Nami, this is incredible, so this is what you've been doing for the one whole month I was gone?" She giggles and sets the cake aside "No, silly, that's only my part-time interest. So eat, then I'll tell you what I did"
I obliged and started eating, my cheek was stuffed with delicious food Nami made "I....wove....it~" I could see her smile happily when I tasted her food "Slow down a little, will you~?" Nami pulls out a handkerchief and wipes my mouth, but I can't stop eating since her food was really delicious "Swo....what hwave you dwone—" I swallow the piece of orange chicken "–since last month, Nami?" I ask, Nami gets closer as she answers "Let me tell you....last month I took a step further from being just your financial consultant, and manager. I started investing your money through a company I opened, Abyga Ltd. For one whole month I prepared necessary papers to launch the company and now guess what? Abyga Ltd is now legally functioning and I can start investing your wealth via Abyga"
I blink at her in disbelief, the piece of chicken in my chopsticks forgotten mid-air. "You... started a company?" Nami nods proudly, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Yes! And not just any company, Arto. Abyga Ltd isn't some run-of-the-mill firm. It's a private investment and asset management company designed to multiply your wealth while keeping everything discrete. Think of it as your financial fortress. Not only that—" Nami takes a deep breathe before continuing "–this company will receive support from Gremory clan, it will act as the branch of the clan in human realm, supporting the clan's actions in human world by managing financial aspects of any businesses Gremory clan wants to build in human realm, keeping them stable and ensuring their growth. Your money will be managed and multiplied by Abyga, or more likely, me–the founder and CEO of Abyga....well, not quite, I still have full power over Abyga's businesses, but the face of the company would be someone else from Gremory clan, wouldn't it be weird for a student doing such thing, yeah?"
I nods, Nami changes her papers with the assist of Gremory clan to be a 17 years old girl while she is in fact 27, but since she looks so young and beautiful, no one asked about it when seeing her in student's clothes, but I can help but shoot her a doubtful look, she turns her face aside "I know I lied about my age to go to school with you, but what happened happened, I'll keep going to school with you to enjoy student's life while managing Abyga from the shadow, it's not like school work is any problem to me" she says confidently, I let out a low chuckle, shaking my head in admiration. "You really don't hold back, do you?"
Nami grins, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Of course not! You trusted me with your wealth and money, and I said myself that I wouldn't let a penny of your money go to waste and that's what I'm gonna do, Abyga will prosper, there's no argument about that" I nod as the last bite of the bento goes into my mouth "So....Lady Venelana and Lord Zeoticus were okay with this?" I ask "Of course they are in this with me, when I presented to them about the clan last month, they were intrigued and decided to support me in this to create a firm foundation for future businesses of Gremory clan in human realm. They have assigned many financial experts to help me manage the company, I've been working with them for weeks now to prepare for the big day" she answers with certainty and confidence
"But with Abyga tied so closely to Gremory clan, will there be difficulties when working with businesses from other devil clans? Or does Abyga only focus on managing the internal businesses of the clan in human world?" Nami smirks, clearly expecting my question "Abyga is designed to be flexible, Arto. While it's primarily a Gremory-backed company, it won't limit itself to just internal affairs. The goal is to establish strong financial networks in the human realm, not just for the Gremory but for other devil clans as well. That's how we ensure long-term stability."
I lean back, considering her words. "But wouldn't that cause conflicts? Some devil clans might be wary of working with a firm so closely tied to the Gremory." Nami nods, her expression thoughtful. "That's true, and it's something I had to consider while structuring the business. That's why, on paper, Abyga Ltd isn't directly affiliated with any one clan. The financial experts we brought in come from various backgrounds, and the board of directors includes neutral figures. The Gremory influence is strong, but it won't be obvious to outsiders. Even the capital of Abyga while originally from Gremory clan but distributed and divided to many and many investors in human realm to make sure everything is well covered and there would be no trace leading back to you or Gremory clan"
I rub my chin, absorbing her words "What about Sitri clan? Does Lord Sora and Lady Sena know about this matter?" Nami nods "They do know and are fully aware of this matter, they are another supporter of Abyga beside Gremory, and they will play an essential role in the establishment of Abyga" I lean closer to hear what Nami is going to say "Sitri will be the starting point of Abyga, the place where Abyga builds its reputation to draw more devil clans into our financial management service" my eyes widen "You don't say—"
"Indeed, Sitri will be Abyga's first customer, more specifically, their hospitals" Nami's voice firmed "I, along with the financial experts under me have read through the papers and reports about the financial state of hospitals under the management of Sitri clan and got the clear view of what was happening. Sitri hospital while still functioning okay, there are some significant losses in the revenue of the hospitals for years. We have found the reason and also the way to fix this"I narrow my eyes, intrigued. "Losses? But the Sitri hospitals are some of the most advanced in the underworld and human realm alike. How could they be losing money?"
Nami leans forward, her expression shifting into that of a businesswoman in full control. "That's exactly the problem, Arto. The Sitri hospitals focus so much on advancing medical technology and providing top-tier healthcare that they've neglected the financial sustainability aspect. Their research costs are immense, and while they do receive funding from the Sitri Clan and partnerships, it's not enough to cover the increasing expenses. Even with the time and money saved by using your simulation room for experiments and research, it has only been going on for a few months, the consequences of the spendings years prior still looms over the financial state of Sitri clan's hospitals today with lingering debts. And since all of the research and experiments have been transferred to the simulation room to lower the cost, it worked perfectly when most of the cost had been covered by the capacity of the room. Now all we need to do is to deal with the debts as soon as possible before they expand due to the interest"
I frown slightly. "And how does Abyga plan to fix that?" Nami's smirk widens, her fingers tapping against the table rhythmically. "Simple. We restructure their financial model and introduce a strategic investment plan." I raise an eyebrow. "That's a broad answer, love. Care to elaborate?" She chuckles, clearly enjoying the discussion. "Of course. First, we implement a debt restructuring strategy. Abyga will negotiate with the creditors to consolidate the loans under better terms—lower interest rates, extended repayment periods. That will ease the immediate financial strain on the hospitals."
I nod slowly. "That makes sense. But that alone won't fix the issue in the long run." "Exactly!" she exclaims, pointing at me. "Which is why we'll also diversify their revenue streams. Right now, Sitri hospitals rely too much on high-end private care and research grants. We'll introduce specialized wellness programs and premium services for affluent clients. That way, the hospitals can generate more income without compromising their core mission of providing top-tier medical care."
I rub my chin, processing the idea. "And you think Sitri Clan will approve of this? Lady Sena and Lord Sora have always prioritized service over profit.", "That's why we're packaging this as a way to enhance their medical services, not just a financial fix," Nami explains. "For example, we'll create a Sitri Medical Innovations Fund, where a portion of these premium services will directly support advanced research and treatments for underprivileged patients. It's a win-win: more revenue for the hospitals, continuous breakthroughs in medical research, and no compromise on ethics."
I let out an impressive whistle. "You've really thought this through." Nami leans back, a satisfied smirk on her lips. "Of course I have. I don't do things halfway, Arto. And once this works for the Sitri, other clans will see Abyga as a reliable financial partner. That's how we expand. And since the experiments and research are all being moved to the simulation room to lower the cost and time, the hospital can focus on providing healthcare services and soon approach the self-sustain state. And by that time, their money will be managed by Abyga, or more accurately, ME!" I shake my head in disbelief, a grin tugging at my lips. "You're scary when you talk about business and money, you know that?" She winks playfully. "And you love me because of it."
"So let me get this straight, your plan was to draw other businesses of devil clans into your financial management service from the example of Sitri clan's hospitals" I ask her, this could be a turning point in the political game in the Underworld if Nami could get under other clans' sleeve and see how their wealth are used "Exactly! That's the whole plan, once I have the intel about their financial state, it'll be tons easier to get upper hand against them in negotiations and bargains. That is the sole reason Lords and Ladies Sitri and Gremory supported me in the formation of Abyga, And since they both treat me really well, especially mother Venelana, I'll do my part to make sure their prosperity is certain"
"Mentioning Lady Venelana, what happened to your mother-daughter role-play with her?" Nami's smile changes to a warm tone as she answers "Well, she has been the best mother I could ask for, she has been loving, caring for me like no other does. So in a month when you were gone, a decision was made. She decided to adopt me officially as her daughter, so my name is now Nami Gremory, I'm now Rias' adopted big sister, and you should see how happy she was when it's official. But in business, I'm only Nami, really don't want the clients in the future to get any wrong ideas"
I blink, my mind struggling to process what I just heard. "Wait... You're telling me that in just one month, you went from being my financial manager to running a company that will control the financial networks of the Underworld and became a Gremory?" Nami giggles, leaning in closer. "That's right~ Impressive, isn't it?" I rub my temples, exhaling. "That's beyond impressive... That's insane. You basically rewrote your entire status in the Underworld in a month." She grins mischievously. "You know me, Arto~ I don't waste time."
"Rias having her shopping bestie as her older sister, I can already imagine her face right now" Nami giggles "She was over the moon," Nami chuckles. "The moment it became official, she dragged me on a week-long shopping spree to celebrate. I swear, Arto, I've seen the depths of luxury shopping, and it's satisfying taking the whole mall home, but me as the financial manager of the family had to stop her at one point, or else the family's safe might perish and we will never hear the end of it from Grayfia" I can already imagine the room's temperature reaching sub-zero when Grayfia is angry, the cold anger, I have experienced it a few times when I neglected my meals to focus on my research, thinking about it now sends a shiver down my spine, I really don't want to get to that side of my lover maid
"I promised you to wealth up this family, so although I like spending money, I'll make sure to spend it to make more in return. But from time to time indulgence is necessary to keep the spirit up, don't you think~?" she asks "I agree, money is meant to be spent after all, so if it's to your liking or necessary, feel free to shop as you like, but don't over spend, alright?" Nami chuckles lightly "Come on, Arto, you're saying we're that poor, you know, we have more money than you think, it's just you rarely spend, but I can assure you, we can afford anything in this world, like a few islands are within my radar for our safe haven"
"I see, look like I worry too much again" suddenly a bulge appears under my blanket, I know who this is. From under the blanket, Albedo shoots out and wraps her arms around my neck "Master~I'm back to your side~" she exclaims happily before pressing her lips against mine. After the kiss, she calms down and only now she notices Nami "Oh hi, Nami~" my succubus greets with her arms still around my neck "Good day to you as well, Albedo" she then turns to me "So she stays here all the time?" Nami asks while Albedo is slowly unbuttoning my shirt "Pretty much, she only teleported back to her room when doctor Faunas came for daily checkup, or else she would be here with me"
Nami sighs, crossing her arms as she watches Albedo shamelessly straddle me, her fingers already working on the next button of my shirt. "You really are hopeless, you know that?" she says, shaking her head with an amused smirk. Albedo grins, resting her head against my chest. "Of course, Master needs his personal comfort. And who better to provide it than his devoted succubus?" Her wings flap lazily behind her as she nuzzles against me, completely unbothered by Nami's stare. She then looks at me with heart-shaped pupils "Master, it's been a week we haven't had sex, how about...." she purrs, but "Not so fast, Albedo, you know the rules" Robin appears in the room to stop Albedo's advance on me, she looks at Albedo with a gaze full of power and authority
"Tch" Albedo clicks her tongue as she refrains, but still keeping he embrace around me, Nami looks at Robin with admiration "As expected from the harem's leader, Nico Robin" Robin lets out a slight smile as she greet Nami "Good day to you Nami~ It looks like you've walked Arto through the affairs regarding Abyga Ltd" Nami nods "I have, Arto has gotten the basic of how things work now, and everything will be in motion soon when the office is set up and the employees are recruited, maybe a month from now" Robin nods as she comes and presses her lips against mine for a kiss, then her gaze goes back to Albedo "You know what doctor Faunas said, no sex until he is fully recovered, this is the fourth time this week I had to be here to stop you. Will you let our beloved man recover?"
Albedo pouts dramatically, her golden eyes filled with frustration. "But he looks fine! And he's been eating well, hasn't he? Besides, physical affection is crucial for his emotional well-being~" she argues, pressing herself closer against me. Robin sighs, her sharp gaze unwavering. "You say that every time, and every time I have to remind you—just because he looks fine doesn't mean he's fully recovered. Doctor Faunas was very clear, and I will enforce her orders."
I chuckle awkwardly, resting a hand on Albedo's waist. "Robin's right, Albedo. I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I'm not trying to get another lecture from Faunas about 'reckless behavior' and 'overexertion.'" Albedo groans, reluctantly pulling back—but not before stealing a quick peck on my cheek. "Fine, fine, I'll wait... but once you're cleared, I won't hold back," she whispers seductively, her wings flicking behind her as she once again rests her head against my chest.
I look at Robin, who seems to know what I was about to ask "Robin, about the thing I had asked you to set up before I headed into the simulation room for my project, how did it come along after 1 month?" Robin answers firmly "It's almost done, everything is going smoothly according to your blueprint, it's coming together very well, and it might be ready in a few days, ideally when you're discharged. I've also set up a prototype in our shared dreamscape–the Endless for a test run, once you return to our embrace, we will start the test in the Endless" Nami clasps her hands in excitement "So it's about time we start that thing up, eh? We worked so hard on that"
Albedo looks up at me with a confused look "What happened, master~? What are they talking about?" I pat her head "It's a project they did for me when we were away in the simulation room based on my blueprint" Albedo tilts her head to the side "What kind of project, master~?" I take a deep breath and answer "It's a portal, an interdimensional portal, a gate to other realms, worlds, dimensions"
Albedo's golden eyes widened in surprise, her wings twitching slightly. "An interdimensional portal...? Master, are you saying—" Robin nods, cutting in. "Yes. If all goes well, we'll have a functioning gateway capable of connecting different realms, bypassing conventional barriers." Nami grins, her excitement barely contained. "It's a game-changer, Albedo. Once we get it running, the possibilities are endless—trade, knowledge exchange, expansion into new territories. The underworld, the human realm, other planes of existence... all within our grasp."
Albedo looks into my eyes, she knows what I'm feeling. "It's more personal than that, right, my love~? The portal isn't only for research and transportation, right?" I sigh "You read me like a look, Albedo. It's indeed for another reason" Robin leans in, clearly curious "And that reason might be.....a way home?" Nami looks at Robin confusedly "A way home? What do you mean, Robin?"
"You both know Arto isn't from this world, right?" Nami and Albedo nod "That's exactly the 'way home' I was talking about" Nami tilts her head "But what's there left for you, Arto? Isn't this place better with us? Why are you trying to find the way back to the world that treated you like a piece of trash even though you gave it all to save it?" Albedo chimes in as well, clearly concerned "She is right, master, why come back there? There is nothing left for you back there. Here you have us and everything, what's that still lingering you to that old wretched world of yours?"
I sigh "An answer and 3 people, all I seek is an answer and 3 people, that's all I ever wanted to know from my old world. Don't worry, my loves, I will never leave you or anything, I just want to come back to my old world to get the answer for a question that I have been asking for thousands of years in the Void, even until now I keep wondering, it never lets me rest"
Robin's eyes soften as she nods in understanding. "So, this isn't about returning permanently... it's about closure." I exhale, running a hand through my hair. "Yeah... closure. There's a question that's haunted me since I was cast into the Void. If I don't find the answer, I'll never truly be at peace." Nami crosses her arms, frowning slightly. "And the three people?" I pause for a moment before answering. "They were the only ones who mattered to me in that world. If they're still alive... I need to know how they are doing now"
Silence fills the room as Nami and Albedo exchange glances. Robin, ever the perceptive one, places a gentle hand on my shoulder "I see, then we'll help you find the answer to ease your worried mind, so that you can devote yourself fully to us when you come back. But there is still one problem, the worlds navigator. We can't go blindly into the endless universes out there, hoping luck is on our side" I nod to her concern, then I turn to Nami "That's where you come in, my navigator. How did the algorithm I asked you about come along?" Nami pulls out a file of papers "Still working on it, you gave me the impossible task, but I've been working on it and I must say, it was the most interesting thing I've ever faced in my life, and it's coming to completion, just need about a month to complete my calculation, then it's done. And guess what? That's the same time when all the preparations for Abyga might be completed and the company is ready for a grand launch"
Robin leans forward to see what Nami was talking about and her eyes widened seeing what Nami was presenting "You've been creating Interdimensional Navigator. You really intended to trace the finite in the infinite?" Nami smirks, flipping through the papers. "That's right. The algorithm is designed to map out potential coordinates across dimensions based on specific criteria—energy signatures, space-time anomalies, and even metaphysical imprints left behind by powerful beings." Robin whistles, clearly impressed. "That's... insane. You're trying to apply logic and mathematics to something as vast and chaotic as the multiverse itself. You could've told me, you know, I could help you speed things up"
Nami shakes her head "You were busy enough with keeping Arto's magic class running, managing the simulation room's work with the researchers and scientists from Gremory and Sitri clans, the training for Rias and Sona's peerages going in the Training Ground, keeping your work at Kuoh Academy going smoothly, even keeping doing your research and setting up the interdimensional portal when Arto was gone. You've had so many missions on your back, your genuine smile faltered, the students have realized how forcefully you tried to smile and have been talking about you losing the passion for history and teaching. Only when Arto returned I could see you genuinely smile for the first time this month"
Robin blinks at Nami's words, her expression shifting slightly "The students noticed...?" she murmurs, a hint of surprise in her voice. Nami nods, crossing her arms "Yes, everyone has been worried about you, but you kept saying you were fine time after time. Now I know why you and Arto fit each other, both are workaholics who care little to none about themselves. That's why I didn't tell you about the navigator. I needed you to focus on what you were already doing, not add another impossible project to your plate." Robin looks at me, her gaze softening. "We are indeed alike, aren't we" I nods "Straight up made for each other, I would say. But after this, we need some rest, serious rest"
Robin sighs, a small but genuine smile gracing her lips. "Rest, huh? That sounds... nice for a change." Nami grins triumphantly. "See? Even you admit it now. You've been running yourself into the ground, Robin. We all have, to some extent. But once this project is done, we're taking a break. No excuses." I place a hand on Robin's, squeezing gently. "She's right. I can't have you burning yourself out, Robin. You're too important—to me, to everyone. We'll finish this, but after that, we all take time to breathe."
"We'll have a few weeks of break before the new school year a month from now, that's some ideal time for us to travel somewhere together. I'll prepare something for us to travel somewhere pleasant, like a trip to another world, everyone would love to have this trip, I'll call Rias to prepare" Nami says in a excited tone, pulling out her phone "Rias, we're heading to another world to travel when this school year is over, prepare everything to head out.....what.....oh, right, sorry for disturbing you, I'll call you again later, love you sis~" Nami hangs up "Rias is still being buried by the papers she has neglected for a month because of your absence, now she and Akeno are getting it. Nonetheless, she sends you her best regards and expects you to come back to tend to her, she is in deep need for your presence" Nami voice filled with concern for her little sister. Then Nami stands up from the bed "Guess I'll drop by to give Rias and Akeno some help, you should rest up and come back to us by Monday" Nami kisses me on his lips before leaving through the door
"I'm leaving also, I have to prepare a class and training session for Sona's peerage today. Well, except for Sona herself and Tsubaki who are still being buried in papers like Rias and Akeno, I'll come back to you later. About you, Albedo, do not do anything unallowed" Albedo waves her hand, unamused "Right, right, no sex, I know. You can keep your eyes off today" Robin shakes her head "Nope, my eyes will always watch to make sure your desire is in check so that Arto can come back to us by Monday with acceptable health condition, you've been keeping him for yourself long enough, we love and need him too" A kiss was shared between us as Robin disappears through an eye she placed in the room. After Robin left, Albedo sighs "Annoying Robin, asserting control everytime"
I chuckle at Albedo's pouting, brushing a hand through her silky hair. "You know she means well. She's just looking out for me." Albedo huffs but nuzzles into my touch. "I suppose... but I don't like being kept away from you." Her golden eyes peer up at me, glimmering with longing. "My existence is tied to you and I want to be close to you all the time to feel your love for me, master~" a smile finds itself to my face "Well, we still have a whole day ahead of us and I'm not planning on leaving this warm bed, so let me hold you and love you, Albedo~" I slowly lay myself down the bed, pulling Albedo with me as she lays on my chest
Albedo lets out a pleased sigh, draping herself over me like she belongs there—because, in her mind, she absolutely does. Her arms tighten around me as she nuzzles into my chest, her soft raven hair cascading over my skin. "Mmm~ this is heaven, Master... just you and me, with no one to disturb us." I chuckle, running my fingers through her hair. "You really are hopeless when it comes to me, aren't you?" She tilts her head up, giving me a teasing smirk. "Of course~ I am your devoted succubus, after all. My very being exists to love and cherish you."
My eyelids start getting heavier the more I lay in bed with Albedo, sleepiness is creeping up my brain despite is only noon, Albedo's soft body hugging mine make it too comfortable to get up, I don't want to escape her embrace as she removes her clothes like usual when she sleeps with me. With a flick of her finger, my clothes were gone as well as she held me tightly once more, pressing her skin against mine, giving me one less reason to get out of bed. Eventually, I give up and wrap my arms around her, my right palm finds it way to its usual destination, Albedo's buttock as it start kneading her ample butt gently
Albedo lets out a satisfied moan that makes my hand move more passionately, she leans closer to my body "Love it, aren't you, my dear master~? If you like squeezing my butts so much, how about we do a little pound....". "Albedo" Robin's voice rings inside the room, discouraging Albedo's suggestion "Oh come on! Robin!" Albedo raises her voice "Things were getting romantic, do you have to intervene!?" my succubus talks to the room itself not knowing where the ear of Robin is "You know the rules, Albedo, romantic, not lustful. If you can't hold yourself, I'll call doctor Faunas to bring you back to your room, she hasn't known you've been secretly staying in Arto's room"
"And you too, Arto, stop spoiling her, she has started to make unreasonable demands on your soft spot for her" I sigh as my hand leave her rear and return to her waist "Welp, you heard the queen, Albedo, just sleeping" Albedo pouts as she buries her face in my chest "And I'll just watch" Robin teases with one of her eyes looking closely at the bed where Albedo and I are laying "Can we have some privacy here, spy? It's creepy" Albedo scoffs "As long as you follow the rules and let Arto rest, or else these eyes will never leave your side" After that, Robin's voice dies down as the room goes back to being silent. I look at Albedo "Let's sleep Albedo, see you in the Dark Arena" Albedo nods "See you there, master, let me show you my new found strength~" We slowly drive to sleep as the dream of mine draws us to the Dark Arena of my dream. As we land next to each other, monsters start appearing around us like an endless ocean. I quickly don on my armor while Albedo does with her own battling attire
Albedo squeals a little in her armor "Ahhh~My master looks so cool!" I reply by a slight nod "And you look like a true queen of battle" Albedo raises her halberd and slays a monster approaching her "Because I indeed am, but only for you, my only master and eternal love~"
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Albedo chilling at the blue bonfire in Arto's dream)
3rd POV
When Arto returns home on Monday after being discharged, his mansion in the suburb of Kuoh looks a little different from how he remembers a month ago "I don't remember it was this big" Arto thinks to himself when looking at the place
Arto stands at the front gates, momentarily stunned. In the afternoon light, the mansion glows with a refined grandeur—tall, arched windows gleaming like jewels and brick turrets rising on either side. A newly added wing extends off the main structure, and a sweeping terrace leads down to a spacious pool area complete with lounge chairs and a gazebo. Manicured landscaping frames the scene, complete with decorative stonework and soft, glowing lights that give the estate a subtle fairy-tale vibe.
He can't help but let out a low whistle. "I don't remember it being this big," he murmurs, running a hand through his hair. It's not just a little renovation—the place looks like it nearly doubled in size since he last saw it. As he takes a few tentative steps inside, the sense of awe continues. The grand foyer is bathed in warm light, every detail meticulously polished. The spiral staircase now splits off into two separate wings, and polished marble floors reflect the shimmering chandelier overhead. It's the same mansion, but elevated—bigger, brighter, and unmistakably more luxurious than before.
He hears a voice echo down the hall. "Arto!" A familiar figure hurries toward him—Rias, with relief and excitement shining in her eyes. She practically tackles him in a hug. "Welcome home!" she exclaims, grinning up at him. "I can't tell you how good it is to see you back on your feet. How are you feeling?" Arto returns her hug with a grateful smile. "Better, thanks to you and everyone else who came to visit me. But..." He glances around, taking in the expanse of the foyer and the corridor stretching far beyond what he remembers. "What happened here?"
Rias laughs softly, stepping back to gesture around them. "Nami happened. She took the opportunity to push a massive renovation through—apparently, it's part of some 'investment plan' to support your projects. There's a whole new wing for guest suites and an expanded training hall, plus the library's been quadrupled. Even the courtyard's been rebuilt with a brand-new pool." Arto shakes his head in disbelief, eyes flicking between the ornate new details. "I was only gone for a month! How on earth did she manage all of this so fast?"
Rias smirks. "You know how Nami is—once she sets her mind to something, there's no stopping her. She had an army of contractors, magical reinforcement, and a handful of devils from the Gremory Clan who specialized in, let's just say, 'accelerated construction techniques'". "Accelerated, indeed," Arto mumbles, still reeling from the scale of it all. "I guess this means I owe her a huge thank-you. And probably a conversation about how much she paid for all this."
Rias shrugs playfully. "Well, not much, a slight dent in your safe is all. C'mon, my parents didn't pay you lightly for what you did for us, it's just that you never spend much money, so you don't know how rich you are just from your innovations and technology. You're practically richer than the richest person in this world right now, so be at ease, we are not poor, especially when Nami is the one holding the safe's key, her investments are blooming right now and we are watching more and more wealth coming our way"
Rias then takes his hand "Let's head inside, my love~Everyone wants to see you again" Arto walks inside the mansion to see Grayfia waiting for him at the door, she bows to him respectfully "Welcome home, my master, it's good to see you again, healthy and happy" Seeing Grayfia, Arto wastes no seconds to pull her into his embrace and presses his lips against hers, he holds her tightly as their kiss deepens, Grayfia doesn't resist as she melts into the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck.
The kiss goes on for several minutes until they both let go, their foreheads touch as they pant to get some air into their lungs "My beloved master, please don't ever leave me again like that, I miss you" Arto tightens his holds around Grayfia "I'm never leaving any of you again, you have my words, I'll make it all up for you and others from now on" Rias watches with a knowing smile. "Alright, alright, let's not hog him right at the entrance. Everyone's been waiting to see him."
Grayfia reluctantly steps back, though her hand remains intertwined with Arto's as they walk deeper into the mansion. As they reach the grand hall, a wave of familiar voices fills the space. "Arto!!" Akeno is the first to reach him, her signature teasing smile in place as she wraps her arms around his shoulders, pressing herself against him. "You had us all worried, you know~" she purrs into his ear. "You should make it up to us properly~Ideally from tonight on with a lot of se...." Before she could continue, someone jumps right on Arto's back, making him lean forward, the single-tone voice gives Arto her identity "Wolf's home" Koneko clings to his back tightly
"Good to see you again, my favorite cat, how have you been doing?" A heavy punch was sent to his back by Koneko "Training to punish you for leaving us behind" Arto can feel the destructive power of that punch on his human body "Oww.....Wow, you've been training really we...." another person jumps on his back "Who is your favorite cat again~?" Kuroka asks teasingly. Arto lets out a chuckle, staggering slightly as he now has two catgirls clinging onto him "Alright, alright, Koneko is my favorite white cat and you are my favorite black cat, is it fair now?" Kuroka nuzzles against his neck, purring. "Mmm~ good answer, but you still owe us, ya know~ Nyan~" she teases, her 2 tails swishing playfully behind her.
Rias sighs, shaking her head. "At this rate, we'll never get him past the entrance hall." A gentle cough interrupts the playful chaos. "Now, now, let's not overwhelm him all at once." Sona steps forward, adjusting her glasses as she regards Arto with a composed smile. "Welcome back. You've been greatly missed." a kiss was placed on Arto's lips. Arto smiles at her. "It's good to be back, Sona."
Behind her, Tsubaki nods, her expression soft. "The mansion may have changed, but everyone's feelings toward you haven't." Before Arto can respond, another figure steps into view—this time, with an unmistakable aura of grace and authority.
Serafall.
The moment their eyes meet, she explodes forward, practically tackling Arto to the ground. "ARTO-KUUUUUN~!!!" she squeals, rubbing her cheek against his. "You were gone so long! I was gonna die from missing you! We should celebrate your return with a mahou shoujo marathon, followed by a—"
Arto groans, still pinned beneath her. "Sera... air... need air..." Rias sighs. "Alright, enough. Let him breathe, everyone." Reluctantly, Serafall releases him, and Arto sits up, catching his breath. Arto tries to push himself forward with Akeno and Serafall clinging to him on the front while Koneko and Kuroka cling to him on the back, Rias Sona and Tsubaki pinch their nose in helplessness at the situation before them. After a long while, Arto finally reaches the living room, Arto moves to the couch and sits down with the rest of the house looking at him.
Robin was the first to say "You've gotten some extra weight on yourself, no?" She teases "Well, it's good to lift a little after my discharge, they are not that heavy after all....." Albedo flies out of nowhere and joins the hugging fray with her arms around his neck"Master~You're home, I miss you so much~I thought I could handle a 2 days without you when I was discharged before you, but that's been proven wrong. Now I can't live a day without you by my side~" Albedo nuzzles into his neck
"Well? Still 'not so heavy', love?" Nami teases as she walks down the stairs in her businesswomen's elegant suit. "Well, still not so heavy, I can live like this" Arto leans back on the couch to relax. "Alright, people, give Arto some space for breathing, we don't want him to see the doctor again after a few minutes of coming home, right?" Rias claps her hands together signalling everyone to let go of Arto.
"Where is Erza, I wonder?" Arto asks while looking around the living room, looking for the red-haired knight. And like an answer for his question, from the door that leads to the basement, Erza comes out with her training attire drenched in sweat, seeing Arto, she tiredly comes to him "Good to see you again, Arto, welcome back. I'm looking forward to our sparring matches in the future"
Arto lets out a chuckle "Eager, aren't you? You'll have plenty of chances to get back at me for all your losing streak in the past" Arto stands up from his seat and comes to check on Erza, and he was surprised "Damn, you've taken the training regimen I gave you quite seriously, yeah?"
Erza crosses her arms, a proud yet slightly exhausted smirk on her face. "Of course. You didn't expect me to slack off while you were away, did you? And guess what, I did twice the regimen you gave me" Her scarlet hair sticks to her skin from the sweat, and her muscles are more defined than before, evidence of her relentless training.
"Wait, what!? That one is the standard training regimen of my Abyssgard soldiers, most of them were devils and supernatural creatures, and they struggled against this regimen a lot at the start and here you were, doing twice the training without any enhancement from your race? I'm impressed, Erza! Rias, Sona and their peerages barely survive this daily regimen". Rias and Sona exchange glances, a bit of exasperation flickering in their eyes.
"You do realize that regimen nearly killed us the first few weeks, right?" Sona adjusts her glasses, recalling the sheer hell Arto put them through during training. "And Erza did twice that?" Erza smirks, rolling her shoulders. "It was... intense. But I refused to let myself fall behind. If I'm going to be the strongest version of myself, I have to push my limits."
Arto shakes his head in amazement. "Damn, Erza. I knew you were stubborn, but this is something else." He reaches out, giving her biceps a light squeeze. "You've really gotten stronger. I can't wait to see how you fare in our next spar." Akeno giggles, sidling up to Arto. "Ara~ If Erza's gotten this strong, does that mean we'll have to convince you to hold back on her~?"
Erza scoffs, crossing her arms. "Don't even think about it. I want Arto to come at me with everything he's got." Albedo hums in amusement, leaning against Arto's shoulder. "You humans and your obsession with pushing limits. It's charming in its own way, I suppose."
Koneko, still lounging nearby, gives Erza a curious glance. "Tch. Twice the regimen, huh?" She clenches her fist. "I'm not letting you get ahead of me that easily." Kuroka purrs. "Nyaa~ If my little Shirone-chan gets competitive, this might get very interesting."
Arto laughs, shaking his head. "Alright, alright. No need to turn this into an arms race. I just got back. Let's save the training for later." He pats Erza's shoulder, smiling. "But I'll admit—I'm really looking forward to our next match. No holding back." Erza smirks, eyes flashing with determination. "Neither will I."
"Alright Erza, while I enjoy your enthusiasm and spirit, you need to take a bath before we have dinner, the first dinner with Arto since his absence" Grayfia says as she comes into the living room and pushes Erza to the staircase so that she can go wash herself from all the sweat and fatigue. When Erza left, Arto turned his attention back to Nami who had been sitting idly waiting for what he was going to ask "Nami, what's with the expansion of our home?"
Nami smirks, resting her chin on her hand as she leans back comfortably. "Well, I figured since you were gone for a month, I might as well make some executive decisions in your absence." Arto raises an eyebrow. "Executive decisions that somehow resulted in nearly doubling the size of our mansion?" She shrugs nonchalantly. "You always say you want to provide the best for everyone here, right? So, I just made that happen. And before you ask—yes, everything is paid for, and no, I didn't drain our resources. You should really look into your vault sometimes, love~ We're richer than that. And since you never spend any money, it's down to us women of yours to do so in your and our steads, it's just that with me, we will always make more in return"
Arto sighs, shaking his head with a mix of amusement and disbelief. "I see, it looks like leaving money to you was the right choice" Nami puffs her chest out proudly "Of course, I meant what I said down to every word, not a penny of yours will go to waste, and with that money, we're having a better life here." Arto nods in approval before leaning forward "So, walk me through the changes you've made"
Nami's eyes glimmer with excitement as she steps forward, gesturing toward the towering façade of the mansion. "Let's start with the exterior," she begins. "We expanded the main building itself—added an entirely new wing on the east side. You can see the rounded turrets and arched windows that match the original architecture. I wanted the addition to blend seamlessly, so I used the same brick and stone accents."
She points out the broad terrace that now wraps around to the back, connecting to a sweeping staircase leading down to the pool. "The outdoor area was completely redesigned. We kept the pool but enlarged it—installed better heating, added custom lighting for nighttime events, and built a covered gazebo for outdoor dining. We also expanded the landscaping. You'll notice more hedges, decorative rock features, and integrated lighting throughout the garden. It's a lot more inviting now, especially in the evenings."
Arto follows her, taking in each new detail with an appreciative nod. The windows gleam under the mansion's warm lights, casting a welcoming glow over the meticulously maintained grounds. He can see the care that went into blending old and new, making it feel both familiar and entirely upgraded.
"Inside," Nami continues, opening the front door, "we enlarged the grand foyer, pushing back the walls to create more space for receptions and gatherings. Notice the double spiral staircase? We reinforced the steps with a magical seal so it can handle more foot traffic—just in case we end up hosting large events or if some of our more... enthusiastic friends decide to practice combat indoors." She gives Arto a knowing look.
They move through the foyer into a spacious living area, where plush sofas are arranged around a marble fireplace. The ceiling is higher here, supported by elegant columns that match the mansion's original style. "We've also replaced most of the flooring with marble for a more polished look," Nami explains, tapping the ground with her heel. "Durable, easy to clean, and definitely screams 'luxury.'"
She then leads him to a set of double doors. "Behind these doors is our new library. We quadrupled its size—there's now a second level, accessible by a balcony walkway. I've filled it with everything from magic tomes to business records. Think of it as a personal archive for your research and everyone else's needs." Arto steps inside, momentarily speechless at the rows upon rows of shelves, some already brimming with books, others waiting to be filled. The smell of leather and parchment mingles with the faint scent of polished wood. "This... is incredible," he breathes.
Nami smiles, clearly pleased by his reaction. "It's all part of your legacy, Arto. You've gathered so much knowledge—and created plenty of your own—so it only makes sense to store it properly. And if you look up," she adds, pointing to the ceiling, "we've enchanted the roof to display a live projection of the night sky. Great for late-night reading."
They continue through various corridors—each wider, with high ceilings and tasteful lighting—until they reach the new east wing. Nami opens another door to reveal a state-of-the-art training hall, complete with reinforced flooring, magical wards on the walls, and racks of both traditional and modern weaponry. "This is where Erza and the others have been spending most of their time," Nami says with a smirk. "We made sure it can handle even the most destructive spells without bringing the house down."
Finally, she leads him up a newly added spiral staircase to a suite of rooms overlooking the pool and garden. "Guest quarters," she explains. "Or, you know, if any of us want to switch rooms for a change of scenery. Every suite comes with its own bath and magical climate control."
Arto takes a moment to absorb it all. The mansion isn't just bigger—it's meticulously crafted to accommodate everyone's interests and future plans. "You really went all out," he says, turning to Nami. "Thank you." Nami's cheeks flush ever so slightly. "Hey, I'm just making good use of your wealth. Besides," she adds with a playful wink, "I've still got a few surprises tucked away. But for now, this is the grand tour. So... what do you think?"
Arto gives the hallway one last glance before returning his gaze to Nami. "I think," he says, reaching out to pull her close, "that leaving things in your hands was definitely the right call." She laughs softly, leaning into him. "I'll make sure you never regret it." When Arto reaches the first floor of the mansion after the tour, his eyes were on the door that Erza just came out from "Nami, the basement, what surprise do you have for me there?" Nami's eyes brightened "That's the last place we will visit in this grand tour, so follow me down to your surprise. Robin, mind leading the way?"
Robin stands up from her seatat, her face has excitement written all over it "I thought you'd never ask" Robin gracefully leads the way toward the basement door, her excitement barely concealed. When the door opens before them, Arto can see it's still the typical basement, but what caught his attention is the white door on the wall of the basement, Arto's eyes widened in excitement "Robin, you're telling me that–"
"–Indeed, my love, I've moved the entire simulation room from the ORC clubhouse basement into this mansion of ours and when I said 'entire' I do mean it" Arto comes closely and calls upon the control panel of the room to see the entire structure of the room is here, the power reactor and simulation generator, all is here and is embedded deep underground of the mansion, working perfectly with many portals leading into the room from many researching institutes of Gremory and Sitri clan. Arto looks at Robin "You added these?"
Robin nods "Indeed, I certainly do not want scientists and researchers flocking our basement when they come to use the room like before, so when you're gone, I made some portals leading into the room from their institutions, but you don't need to worry about security when someone might want to infiltrate the room from those gates, I've taken measures with Abyssgard code encrypted biometric code for each of researcher, so you don't need to worry about intruders" Robin reassures Arto with a pat on his back.
"Another matter, how did you do it? Like moving everything here, didn't it damage the structure of the clubhouse?" Robin chuckles, clearly enjoys Arto's reaction "Well, you know, a simple, precise swapping spell and everything needed to transfer the entire simulation room, I've scanned the whole structure of the simulation room down to the last detail and compared it to the structure and the ground component of the mansion to make sure once it's switched, the ground can hold itself without collapsing, that's why the door is here at this exact position"
Arto turns his head aside and kisses Robin on her cheek "You extraordinary woman," Arto murmurs, his lips lingering near Robin's cheek before he pulls back with a grin. "I swear, if I didn't already know you were a genius, I'd be convinced you were a goddess of intellect." Robin chuckles, tilting her head slightly. "Flattery will get you everywhere, my love." She adjusts her glasses, a glint of satisfaction in her eyes. "But I'll accept the compliment." she replies with a kiss on his cheek as well. Seeing that, Nami chimes in as well "Hey, what about me? I'm extraordinary too, you know" Arto smiles as he pulls her into a kiss as well. Breaking the kiss, Nami's face is burning with red flush "You're welcome Arto~"
"Ahem" The 3 turn to the door to see Grayfia waiting for them "Done with your tour? Dinner is getting cold and everyone is anxious to dig in, we are all waiting for you, master" Arto sighs as she leaves the control panel behind and heads out of the basement with Robin and Nami, when coming to Grayfia, Arto pulls her into a kiss "Love you, and thank you, Grayfia, for taking care of the house and everyone when I was away" a pink tint appears on Grayfia's cheeks "It's my duty, master, besides, it's not that hard with all the spells I made to manage the house, all thanks to you teaching me that" the head maid leans closer to hug her master and lover
"C'mon, stop it with the back and forth, we might be here till tomorrow if you two keep going like that" Realizing the situation, Arto coughs "Ahem, right, let's head to the dining hall, what's on the menu today, Grayfia?" he asks "Your favorites, my love~It's your return we're celebrating after all~"
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto eating)
Arto lands gracefully as he enters the dreamscape he shared with his women, the haven for their mind and imagination to fly, the Endless
Arto walks this place to see how much it has changed from a simple grassfield to something as magnificent as this, he could only access this place when all his lovers sleep by his side to pull him out from the prison of Dark Arena into this place, and he will forever be grateful to them for creating this place, a safe haven where his mind could be at peace and his imagination could fly. Arto inhales deeply, feeling the gentle hum of energy that courses through the Endless. Here, in this shared dreamscape, reality bends to imagination—skyward arches rise out of glittering pools, and the luminous silhouettes of grand structures tower over shimmering pathways. The entire realm seems painted in swirling hues of turquoise and violet, punctuated by floating orbs—celestial bodies casting soft, ethereal light across the landscape.
With each step across the bridge, the structures ahead sharpen in detail: carvings of mythical beasts coil around ornate pillars, glowing runes dance along the edges of floating platforms, and translucent walkways span rivers of shimmering starlight. It's beautiful, surreal, and undeniably theirs—a dream made real by the strength of their bond.
He walks through the dream world, looking at the endless signatures of his women's hands in shaping this world to their likings. The towering ivory obelisks engraved with arcane symbols—Robin's mark, a testament to her boundless thirst for knowledge. The cascading golden waterfalls that shimmered like liquid sunlight—Nami's touch, her love for both grandeur and tranquility entwined in their flow. A vast moonlit garden, where delicate petals drifted through the air, each one carrying a faint, comforting glow—Akeno's love for the night and all its quiet wonders.
Arto's gaze is naturally drawn to Rias' touch upon the dreamscape—grand and regal, yet imbued with a warmth that only she could bring. In the distance, a castle of crimson and obsidian stands proudly, its towering spires reflecting the glow of the twin moons above. The banners of House Gremory flutter in the ethereal breeze, not as a symbol of nobility, but as a mark of her love and presence.
Arto chuckled softly as he spotted a floating island covered in pink cherry blossoms, its surface cradled by wisps of stardust. A massive, luxurious bed sat in its center, perfectly designed for comfort, wrapped in silk and gentle warmth. Albedo, of course. It was just like her to claim a portion of the dream to ensure she would always have a place to hold him close, even here.
Arto stands at the heart of the Endless, where Grayfia's masterpiece looms before him—a structure unlike any other in this dream-forged realm. The headquarters, a fortress of serenity and command, stands as a monument to discipline and protection, yet it radiates the warmth of home. Towering silver spires pierce the twilight sky, their tips adorned with floating runes, softly pulsing in sync with the heartbeat of the dream. The entire structure shimmers with a moonlit glow, as if woven from strands of pure stardust, reflecting the eternal nightscape above.
As Arto steps forward, the grand doors part effortlessly at his presence. Inside, the walls of the vast hall of memories shift like living murals, displaying moments from his life—his battles, his triumphs, and, most importantly, the precious memories he's made with the women he loves. Going deeper into the place, Arto meets his women in their nightgowns floating in the air enjoying their conversation over cups of tea made from their imagination. Arto lets out a smile as he flies to them also. The air is rich with the soothing aroma of dream-forged tea, an ethereal blend that only exists within the Endless—a taste woven from their collective memories of warmth, comfort, and love.
As he lands softly among them, Rias is the first to notice, her crimson hair cascading like silk as she turns, eyes gleaming with delight. "Well, look who finally decided to join us," she teases, setting down her porcelain cup on a floating tray. Akeno chuckles, her voice smooth like velvet. "We were wondering when our dear king would arrive. Surely, you wouldn't leave your queens waiting, hmm?" Her mischievous smirk is accompanied by a playful sip of tea, lightning crackling faintly at her fingertips as if responding to her emotions.
Robin crosses her legs gracefully midair, a book hovering beside her as she offers him a knowing smile. "We've been discussing the modifications to the Endless, and I must say, everyone's contributions have been... quite fitting." Arto lets out a chuckle as he takes his place beside them, Nami immediately shifting closer to rest against him. "I was just admiring the place. You all really outdid yourselves in a month I was away"
From behind him, Grayfia's voice carries a quiet authority. "Only the best for you, Arto. This is your sanctuary as much as it is ours." Suddenly, a gentle voice reaches Arto ears "My beloved master~I've finally found you~" Albedo flies towards Arto and hugs him tightly "I got lost by how much things has changed here, it took me a while to locate you by smell from my floating island, but I'm here now~We can start having se...." Robin chops lightly on Albedo's head "Not tonight, Albedo, we have a more pressing matter waiting for us" her voice filled with authority of the undisputed queen of queens. Albedo pouts as she refrains but still holds Arto tightly in her arms
Robin sighs as she start speaking "Alright, we are here today not to indulge ourselves like usual, we are here for a more important matter, the interdimensional portal we've installed here, Arto is home and it's time we give it a test run before doing the same in the real world" Arto's eyes gleam with curiosity as he gently pats Albedo's head, her pouting face pressing against his chest "I see, lead me to it ladies" Robin complies and touches me as everyone whisks away down to the place where the portal is placed
The portal hasn't been activated yet but the anticipation of everyone is reaching the sky now as Arto comes to examine the structure and the details of the portal which was gleaming with arcane symbols and technology. Arto examines the portal thoroughly to see every pieces is in place "The portal is ready, let fire it up" Arto commands as a switch appears before him as he presses it, the runes on the portal starts glowing and the engine sound humming in the room as a swirl of energy being formed in the portal. Everyone braces themselves to face whatever comes next. The swirl expands to cover the frame of the portal as it glows brightly, Arto and his harem cover their eyes before the scene, and the next moment when the light dies down, a new world appears before them on the other side of the portal.
Arto takes a step closer, eyes wide with fascination as the portal stabilizes, revealing the breathtaking sight of an entirely new world beyond its shimmering veil. The air hums with arcane energy, a mix of magic and technology woven together seamlessly. The landscape on the other side is lush and vibrant, illuminated by twin suns casting a golden glow over towering crystalline spires, floating islands, and rivers that shimmer like liquid stardust "Wow, this is indeed a new world beyond the gate, the experiment has succeed everyone" Arto reaches his hand out to go through the portal but his hand passes through the scenery.
"Arto, you can't pass through? Does this mean...." Rias asks as she comes to Arto's side with concerned eyes, the Abyssgard shakes his head "No, no, this is expected, this is just to test the function of the portal, not opening gateway to a new world, we are in a dream realm after all" Robin nods in agreement, adjusting her glasses as she studies the swirling portal. "Precisely. The Endless exists within our collective consciousness, bound by imagination and willpower. This test run confirms the portal's stability, but it cannot manifest a physical gateway while we're in a dream realm."
Akeno tilts her head, a playful smirk on her lips. "So, we're looking at a projection? A glimpse into another world, but no way to step through?" Arto steps back slightly, his mind racing with possibilities. "Exactly. But the fact that it even shows something means that the calculations were correct. When we replicate this in the real world, we might actually open a true interdimensional passage."
Nami crosses her arms, her sharp eyes scanning the portal's fluctuating energy. "Well, with my Interdimensional Navigating Algorithm or INA (A/N: wah) for short on the way, we can truly open a portal to almost any place we want in the endless sea of worlds and dimensions instead of jumping randomly without a clear destination, but it would take about a month for all the calculation to be finalized, by then we will see if it works. Until that time, we can enjoy ourselves and finish this school year in Kuoh Academy"
"YEAH!!!" Everyone cheers together. After the portal is shut down, everyone leaves the chamber where the portal is placed. When the door is closed, a flicker of purple energy sparks in the frame of the portal....
Notes:
With the interdimensional portal on the way, crossovers are bound to happen.......How do you think our characters will fare when walking into other realities?
Tell me your opinions in the comments
Chapter 29: The test
Summary:
Arto's return to his not so normal life
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Issei POV
It's another beautiful day at Kuoh Academy, and the best part? No Aruto Abyga in sight. It's been over a month since he vanished, and the rumors haven't stopped flying.
"I heard he moved away without telling anyone," Matsuda whispers beside me, leaning in like he's sharing top-secret information.
"Yeah? Well, I heard he's bedridden with some weird illness," Motohama counters, adjusting his glasses. "Something serious, maybe even life-threatening."
I snort, shoving my hands in my pockets. "Please, you're saying like a guy as ridiculous as him would go down that easily. I bet he just got bored of school and dipped to do whatever overpowered, world-changing nonsense he's always up to."
"Either way, isn't it great?" Matsuda grins, throwing an arm around my shoulder. "With him gone, we actually have a chance to shine! The girls don't look at us like total trash anymore!"
"Yeah, but Kiba's still here," I grumble, nodding toward the blond prince of Kuoh Academy, who's currently flashing a dazzling smile at a group of fawning girls. "Even with Aruto gone, it's still hard to compete when you've got that guy around."
Motohama pushes up his glasses, eyes gleaming. "True, but the 'Kiba Effect' is nothing compared to the 'Aruto Abyga Supremacy.' Without that walking cheat code around, the school's balance has finally shifted in our favor."
Just then, a group of girls walks past, chatting animatedly. "Have you guys heard? The final exams are coming up soon," one of them says.
"Ugh, I know! I'm going to have to lock myself in my room to study." "I wish Aruto was here," another girl sighs. "He helped me a lot in the last test, but he hasn't appeared for month now, I wonder where he is now"
I groan, slamming my head against the nearest locker. "Unbelievable! He's not even here, and he's still stealing all the attention!"
Matsuda pats my back sympathetically. "Don't let it get to you, bro. This is our time. No more being overshadowed. We just have to do well on these exams, and we'll finally have some bragging rights."
I straighten up, determination lighting a fire inside me. He's right. If I can ace these exams, I'll prove that I'm more than just 'that pervy guy'.
"Alright, you guys," I say, cracking my knuckles. "Time to hit the books. If Aruto ever does come back, I want him to see that we're not just a bunch of losers waiting in his shadow."
Matsuda and Motohama exchange glances before bursting into laughter.
"Dude, we say that every exam season, and then we end up cramming at the last second," Motohama chuckles.
Matsuda grins. "Yeah, but hey, at least we're trying, right?"
I sigh, shaking my head. "This time will be different. We've got a whole month. We're gonna study hard, ace these tests, and finally earn some respect around here!"
Just then, Kiba walks by, effortlessly cool as always. "Oh, hey, Issei," he greets with a friendly smile. "Are you preparing for the finals? If you need any help, I'd be happy to tutor you."
I force a smile. "Thanks, Kiba, but we've got this under control." "Alright then. Good luck!" Kiba says before walking off, causing another wave of dreamy sighs from nearby girls.
I clench my fists. "This is it, guys. No more distractions. No more being looked down on. We're going to—"
As we were declaring our determination, everything went silent, like we are the only ones talking. Matsuda lightly touch my shoulder "Dude, the end is here" I have had any time to process the situation Motohama turns me around to the entrance of the school
At first, I thought it was the best sight in the world when seeing Nami-senpai, Rias-senpai and Akeno-senpai walking to school together, heck, their beauty is on another level that put every other girls in shame when compared
I nudge Matsuda with my elbow, unable to tear my eyes away. "Okay, I admit, this is a beautiful sight. But why the hell are you acting like the apocalypse just hit?"
Matsuda doesn't respond. His jaw just drops lower. I glance at Motohama, who's gripping his glasses so tightly they might snap. His face is pale. "Dude... look behind them."
I frown and shift my gaze past Rias, Akeno, and Nami. That's when I see him walking next to Erza Scarlet.
Aruto Abyga.
That familiar figure appears again, tall, muscular with a slightly tanned skin, that dark blue eyes and the face that always smiles, like that guy was made to stand out, to draw attention. He walks casually next to Erza like 2 knights guarding 3 ladies before them
The entire school is frozen. People have stopped moving. Girls are staring, whispering excitedly, while guys are either watching in awe or glaring with frustration.
One of the second-year girls clutches her books to her chest. "Oh my god... he's back." Another one sighs dreamily. "I knew he wouldn't leave us forever..."
Meanwhile, I'm standing there, gripping my hair. "No, no, no! Why now?! We were finally free!"
Matsuda looks like he's about to cry. "Bro, we almost had it. A whole month of peace. A whole month of NOT being invisible. And now..." "Now the natural order is back," Motohama mutters.
Aruto walks into the school yard with that smiling, carefree face in the fiercest time before the final test of the school year like that guy knows he will pass, no, will ace the entire scoreboard, it's been a new normal with Aruto standing at the top of each test's result table for 2nd school-year students, nobody could surpass him and what's more frustrating is that the guy never seem to be serious about studying but knows it all, he doesn't go to any cram schools or have any kind of extra study as far as we know about him.
"Do you think he ever cheated in tests? How could someone ace everything without even trying like that?" Matsuda asks as he tries to comprehend the situation with Aruto's intelligence "Nah, have you come to the class that smuggling bastard usually holds after school to help other students catch up? That guy is truly smart, and worse, he knows how to spread that intelligence to everyone else. I went there once and it's the first time I absorbed a lesson that easily" Motohama's body shakes when he recalls that time.
"Why do you even attend that class, Motohama? You don't even like studying" I ask, the guy never studies unless being forced to or when the tests are near, how could he get interested in extra studying. Motohama scratches his head "Saw right through me, no wonder we're best buds. You see, my intention wasn't to study at first, it was just an addition to the main course" his eyes get dreamy as his mind drifted further into the memory
Matsuda shakes Motohama back and forth "Hey, snap out of it, tell us. What's that little class of his?" Motohama wakes up from his dream "Alright, alright, here is the thing. This had happened a few days before Aruto-senpai disappeared. I listened in to a conversation between the students who were heading to Arto's class after school. They had talked about some surprise Aruto-senpai prepared for them. I followed them to an empty classroom where he was teaching and I was in awe when seeing–"
Motohama gasps as he tries to push his words out. I hold his shoulder tightly "You saw what, Motohama!? What did you see?" "Miss Nico Robin! I saw Miss Nico Robin was teaching the history lessons that no student could turn away from" Matsuda and I couldn't believe our ears "You don't mean Nico Robin, the most beautiful teacher of our school, the goddess of Kuoh Academy? She TAUGHT there!? In that class of Aruto Abyga!?"
Motohama nods furiously, his glasses practically fogging up from excitement. "Yes! I swear on all my pervy knowledge, Nico Robin-sensei was there, standing at the front of the classroom, teaching history like an absolute queen! I can still remember every word of hers that day, like it was printed into my mind. I could never get enough of her. And do you know what's better than that?" his voice filled with excitement and somewhat arrogant.
Matsuda and I lean closer to hear him "That day, there were only 7 people there including Abyga-senpai, you don't know how much Miss Robin cared and tended to each of us, I had to play dumb many times to have her guide me personally, and I dare say, it was pure heaven when he took my wrist and guide my hand through the map of ancient Europe, he honey-like voice filled my ears as she stood close to me, you couldn't imagine how wonderful each giggle of hers sounded, how each nod and smile from that beautiful face lifted my life and how absolutely gorgeous she smelled. At that moment, I thought my life was complete and I can die happily"
I stare at Motohama, my brain trying to process the absolute nonsense coming out of his mouth. Matsuda, on the other hand, is gripping his shoulders, shaking him like a madman. "YOU'RE TELLING ME YOU HAD A PRIVATE LESSON WITH NICO ROBIN-SENSEI?! AND YOU DIDN'T INVITE US?!" Matsuda shrieks, practically foaming at the mouth. Motohama adjusts his glasses " Well, since that lesson, Abyga-senpai disappeared like we all know and so did his after school lessons, I didn't tell you because you two were enjoying his absence so much, I don't want to ruin your parade by revealing what Abyga-senpai left behind. But hey, he's back now and maybe you can have your chance to attend that class too. And I know a way to make him invite miss Robin"
Matsuda and I launch forward and pin him against a tree "Tell us, tell us how, now!" "Easy, guys, I'm not hiding it from you, don't worry. It's simple, when I talked to other students who attended that last class, they said that all they did was talking to Abyga-senpai about them struggling with history and BOOM, miss Robin was invited to teach, about how Aruto-senpai could pull that off, I don't know, but I'd die to have miss Robin guiding me again~"
I take a deep breath, trying to calm myself, but the reality of what Motohama just revealed keeps hammering at my brain like a sledgehammer. Matsuda clenches his fists, trembling. "We have no choice, Issei. This is our chance. We have to make sure Aruto hears us loud and clear!"
I nod firmly. "Agreed. We'll make him believe we're the worst history students in the school." Motohama grins. "Oh, trust me, that won't be hard for you two."
Before I can punch him, the school bell rings, signaling the start of class. As we turn to head inside, my eyes flicker back to Aruto, who is now casually chatting with Rias, Akeno, and Nami. He looks as relaxed as ever, completely unaware of the plot we've just concocted.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto in his big wolf form carrying his lovers on his back running through the screen)
3rd POV
The classroom remained abuzz with the droning voice of the teacher, but for Aruto and Rias, the lesson was the last thing on their minds. While the rest of the students diligently copied notes, Rias leaned in closer to Aruto, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Hey, love~" she purred, her crimson locks cascading over her shoulder as she turned to him.
Aruto, sensing the playful tone in her voice, shifted his gaze slightly toward her, a small smile playing at his lips. "Hmm? What is it?"
Rias's deep blue eyes gleamed with excitement. "When are you going to launch the interdimensional portal? I've been waiting, you know. The one you showed us in the Endless fascinated me. I've always wanted to go on a trip to another world." Her voice was laced with anticipation, and the way she rested her chin on her hand made it clear—she wasn't going to let this topic go anytime soon.
Aruto let out a quiet chuckle. "When today is over, I'll launch the gate in the real world and see if it truly works as intended." His eyes darkened slightly in thought. "But we shouldn't wander aimlessly into whatever appears before us. It's too dangerous. I need to create something to help us return instantly if we end up in a bad situation. Meanwhile, Nami is finishing her Interdimensional Navigating Algorithm—INA."
Rias's lips curled into a smirk. "I see... so until then, it's completely random, yeah?"
"Indeed," Aruto confirmed with a sly smile of his own. "But wouldn't it be exciting? Marching into the unknown?"
Rias exhaled a soft chuckle, her amusement evident. "It does pique my curiosity, but better safe than sorry." She flicked her fingers toward the teacher, who was obviously continuing his lecture. "We have no idea where that portal could take us. For all we know, we could end up in a world where a war is raging, or where some cosmic disaster is unfolding. Until Nami finishes her calculations, we shouldn't take any unnecessary risks."
Her fingers lightly traced over Aruto's hand, a more seductive smile forming on her lips. "Besides, until then, you should focus on finishing this school year and spending more time with your beloved girlfriends~"
Aruto met her teasing gaze with a smirk of his own, leaning in just slightly as he whispered back, "Got it, my love~"
Rias's eyes sparkled with satisfaction, and just like that, the world of interdimensional travel momentarily faded into the background as the allure of a more personal adventure took center stage.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto dragging the next scene)
After school, when Arto was leaving the class after his cleaning duty, Rias left before him for a stray hunting mission "S class she said" Arto murmurs as he finished polishing the last table of his class, Arto turns to look at classroom once more to see the result of his work, he puts on a proud smile looking at the shining clean tables, board and floor "Thank Grayfia for all those cleaning spells, my head maid is indeed one of a kind" Arto thinks to himself as he closes the door and leaves to call it a day.
"ARUTO-SENPAI!!" a voice booms through the hall that makes Arto stop his track. He turns around to see 3 figures coming to him, the infamous Perverted Trio—Issei, Matsuda, and Motohama—barreled down the hallway, their faces filled with desperate determination.
Aruto raised an eyebrow, amused by their urgency. "Well, well, if it isn't Kuoh's three most... distinguished gentlemen. To what do I owe this pleasure?" Issei sucked in a deep breath before launching into his plea. "Aruto-senpai! Please, you have to help us! It's a matter of life and death!"
Aruto crossed his arms, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Oh? And what perilous danger has befallen you three this time? But one more time, I can't save you from those raging girls with Shinai or from Hamuda-senpai, you're on your own when it comes to that"
Matsuda stepped forward, clasping his hands together like he was going to plead for something. "No, no, nothing like that, senpai. We have a more pressing matter than that...." Arto crossed his arms, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Oh? This is the first time you 3 have a matter better than your perverted antics. Well, tell me, I'm all ears" Arto approaches them to hear what they have to say.
Motohama comes to stand next to Matsuda as he speaks "You see, the final exams are coming and you know most students are cramming for the best result, right?" Arto listens as he nods understandingly, it's indeed the most stressful time of the year for students, well, except for Arto, this is the time when students running left and right to study with different aims for their test results
It seems these perverts are not outside of the storm after all Arto thinks as he looks at the 3 before him "Indeed, and you 3 are having problem studying, right?" Issei steps forward as well "Yes, senpai, we're all trying to pass these tests, but there is one subject that has been a real pain in the ass, that's why we need your help" he exclaims firmly.
"Alright, what subject was it and why has it been a pain for you 3?". "History, senpai, it's history, there was so much to study and remember, so many dates and events they have been swirling in our heads" Motohama says in desperation.
Arto shakes his head while chuckling "History, huh? I can see how that would be tough for you guys. Okay, I'll arrange an extra class for you to study within this week. Sadly, I won't be there to teach you all because I have some plans ahead of me, so I'll invite someone else to teach"
Arto says as he pulls out a small note and a pen as he starts writing. Issei chimes in, his voice filled with hidden excitement "That's too bad, we hoped we could have a chance to absorb your brilliance" Arto smiles "Thank you for your compliment, Issei, I just did what I can to help other students. But don't worry, the person who will teach you will be more passionate than I do, you'll love it"
Arto stops scribbling on the note "Your class will be after school this Thursday in the empty classroom of class 2-4, alright? Don't be late, you might miss some really outstanding knowledge" Arto hands Issei the note "Well, that's the end of the arrangement, now if you excuse me...I have something else to do"
As Arto leaves, Issei, Matsuda and Motohama look at the paper as the excitement claims their mind "You heard what he said? He won't teach, and he said he would invite someone more passionate....." Issei mutters in anticipation "And who is more passionate about history in this school other than Nico Robin-sensei?"
Matsuda and Motohama's eyes widened as the realization dawned on them. The three of them exchanged glances, their minds syncing in an instant. "Robin-sensei..." Matsuda whispered, his hands trembling slightly. Motohama adjusted his glasses, his analytical mind racing. "It has to be her. She's the only one in Kuoh Academy who talks about history like it's some kind of divine scripture."
"And look at the note, it said that there will only be 3 students in that class, so...." Motohama gasps as the words stuck in his throat "...We'll have Miss Robin all for ourselves?" Issei finishes what Motohama started "I can imagine how she will take our hands and guide us through the map, how she will talk to just us, pouring her seductive voice out only for us to hear." Motohama mutters between his heavy breathes
"Let's not forget how beautiful she is, that long, raven hair, slender, gorgeous legs. How could I forget how her wide hips sway side to side when she walks down the class like a model catwalking the runway of some fashion show" Matsuda's face blushes when thinking about their teacher. Joining the fantasy, Issei starts speaking "How could I forget her ample, jiggly busts which shake lightly whenever she walks, her clothes could never hide those beautiful mounds from me, I can already imagine kneading them in my hands" the story gets more and more perverted as the 3 move down the fantasy lane.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto raising both of his arms as he slowly shrinks into chibi form as Robin scolds him)
"You set me up with those perverted students without telling me!? And even a session with only me and them. Is this some sort of prank!?" Robin's voice booms in the living room with Arto kneeling on the floor with both of his hands raising towards the ceiling, his form shrinking before Robin's words. Other members of the harem don't dare interfere Robin's lecture or else they will be in this as well, even Albedo, as much as she loves her master, she won't join another lecture of Robin, she nervously hold a board that read 'I'm so sorry, my love <3' and she holds it out for Arto to see as Robin keep lecturing her lover for his action.
Arto sighs as he tries to protest but Robin gestures to him to be silent until she finishes her lecture "Do you have any idea what those 3 perverts prioritize?" she said, crossing her arms under her ample chest. "They prioritize boobs. Curves. Lewd fantasies! And you, my dear beloved, just handed them a golden opportunity to indulge in those thoughts—with me as the target!"
Robin sighed, rubbing her temples. "Do you even realize what they were saying about me?" Arto awkwardly scratched the back of his head. "Ehehe... they might have said a thing or two about your teaching methods—" Robin stomped her foot. "One of them said he imagined kneading my breasts like dough! One imagined touching my butts! One even said he wanted to try my lips!" Arto winced That horny, huh? Expected, but....
"That's exactly why I set this up for you" Robin looks at Arto confusedly after hearing what he said "What do you mean, Arto?" Robin asks as Arto stands up from his kneeling stance "You said you've always wanted to test out the independent operation of your clones, right? It's time to use them, to show them that you're not the target for their fantasies, make them remember one and for all that they should never get to your bad side"
Robin blinked, processing Arto's words. Then, a slow, devious smirk curled on her lips. "I see, so you set 'them' up instead of 'me', how amusing. But remember this well, my beloved Arto, no matter if this was your plan from the start or this is just you improvising on the spot, you won't get away this time with that smooth mouth. When I'm done dealing with those perverts, it's your turn next. Now...."
Robin disappears in a flash, the next moment, Robin teleports back to the living room with a large cloning tank with a Nico Robin inside, floating in a green liquid, seemingly sleeping, everyone except Arto gasps before the sight of the clone that looks like Robin down to every detail, Robin puts on a smirk as she orders "Release!" The water is slowly drained away, but the Robin in there doesn't fall, she keeps floating. When the water was fully drained, Robin made the next command "Prepare!" robotic arms move in to help clone Robin in her clothes. When the clothes were on, the last command came "Wake!" The tube opens, the wire connects to the clone's neck is unplugged as clone Robin wakes up, she elegantly walks out of the tank.
"Good day to you my creator, I'm Nico Robin, code RC-03, I'm ready for service" Robin smirks as she turns towards Arto "Dear, here is a test to lighten your punishment, tell this clone apart from me, what made the difference between us?" Arto comes closer to Robin RC-03 as he starts examining her until he reaches his hand around her back and touches a specific spot on her lower back with his index finger, this makes the clone wink her right eye lightly, almost too fast to recognize, Arto smirks before his discovery.
"You always wink your left eye when I touch you like that, that thing set you apart from the clone....more importantly, it's the only thing that can set you apart from your clone, a tiny gesture that only my touch can perform, you love me that much, don't you, Robin?" Robin's smirk faltered for a split second before she crossed her arms, feigning indifference. "Hmph. Clever as always, Arto." But the light pink hue dusting her cheeks betrayed her composed demeanor.
The rest of the harem watched in awe. Nami let out an impressed whistle. "Damn, you noticed that tiny detail? That's borderline scary." Rias giggled. "More like romantic. He really knows her." Albedo pouted, clinging to Arto's arm. "Master~ it's not fair how deeply you've memorized every part of Robin's body! You should pay attention to us more too~" Arto smiles slyly "Of course I know everything about each and everyone of you, it's just that I never use it, mostly because the situations regularly don't demand such deep understanding."
"We'll put that through a test later in bed, but for now, I want so see how Robin's clone operate" Grayfia demands as she steps into the room after finishing her head maid's duty, she quickly takes the place next to Arto and laces her hand with his, before anyone could protest "Head maid's special treatment~" protests soon die down before the authority of Grayfia "Ahem" Robin coughs to get everyone's attention, she then turns to RC-03 and commands "Protocol: Independence, Mode: Teacher, Category: Demon Child, Mission: You know what to do"
Robin RC-03's expression shifted instantly. The once emotionless demeanor melted into something eerily similar to the real Robin—poised, confident, and radiating an aura of quiet menace. Her dark eyes glimmered with an almost predatory sharpness as she adjusted her glasses "Understood, Creator". Robin then turns to Arto "Do you want a demonstration?"
The family then head down to the basement, into the simulation room, sector Sandbox was chosen for the test, Robin stands at the control panel with her hand weaving through the buttons to create a perfect scenery for RC-03 to demonstrate her mission, the whole family what the scene unfolded before them, Akeno, Rias and Nami come forward to see what's going to happen while Albedo and Grayfia each takes one of Arto's hand as theirs.
The simulation starts when RC-03 walks in the simulated version of Kuoh Academy, she walks normally to the empty classroom of class 2-4, where the simulated version of Perverted Trio is waiting for her, she comes into the room, and start the lesson, but unlike those brought by Nico Robin, but someone entirely different who shares her face and name, and it was a pure nightmare.
Akeno chuckled darkly, covering her lips with a hand. "Ara~ ara~ I love her teaching methods." Rias smirked. "They did say they wanted to experience Robin-sensei's full passion. They're certainly getting it now." Albedo's grip on Arto's arm tightened, her golden eyes shimmering with admiration. "Robin, this clone is magnificent. I must request one of my own."
Arto, meanwhile, simply shook his head, watching as his setup unfolded with terrifying efficiency. "Well... they'll definitely remember this history lesson for the rest of their lives." Robin, standing proudly at the control panel, simply adjusted her glasses and smirked. "As they should."
Nami leans closer to Robin, asking "Well, with RC-03 taking care of those perverts, I have another thing to ask you, Robin" Robin turns to Nami, tilting her head "What is it?" "Why did you create clones? Like what purpose do they serve you?" Robin giggles as she summons another tank with RC-02 in it "These clones are essentials for my life, they can serve many purposes like decoys for when I have to 'personally' infiltrate dangerous terrains. They can serve as my representatives in many places at once with me controlling them completely. They serve as my back-up bodies, when I died for any reason, my conscious will be transferred into one of these clones, reviving me instantly"
She then points at the wire connecting on RC-02's neck "That wire will transfer my memory and consciousness from one of many backup storing units into the clone, making it 'me' when I need, else, they will remain my clones with my commands being absolute. Lastly, these clones will help me remain young, and beautiful forever without becoming a devil or something else, I can remain human with my mind progressing further and further, that way I can be with Arto forever even if I'm a human"
Nami's eyes widened, her analytical mind racing."And you did all that using magic and technology?" Robin nods "Indeed, I have the power to summon any part of my body, so I use them to create all my clones' bodies, and use this lab to store them for future use" Rias comes closer to Robin "Nico family has been famous for their expertise over anatomy and biology. But with such power over life like that, what could've happened to your household that leaves you the only one left?"
Robin sighs as she stores the tank with RC-02 away, without a word, she looks back at the RC-03 in the simulation room "Clones.....that's what happened" Arto's face darkened "You don't mean....." "Yes" she answers "They rose against their creators–Nico clansmen" A heavy silence fell over the room as Robin's words hung in the air. Even the ever-confident Aruto narrowed his eyes, his usual carefree expression vanishing.
Nami crossed her arms, deep in thought. "So... the Nico family was destroyed by their own creations?" Robin nodded solemnly. "Indeed. My family was always at the forefront of biological and anatomical sciences. We studied the body in ways no one else dared to. We mastered the art of cloning, but... we failed to understand one crucial thing—" she paused, her voice quieter, "—the will of those we created."
Rias furrowed her brows. "You mean... the clones developed independence?" Robin let out a small, bitter chuckle. "Not just independence. Ambition. They were created as perfect replicas, given intelligence equal to their originals. But at some point, they asked themselves a dangerous question: Why should we serve, when we are the same as you?"
Aruto exhaled sharply. "A revolution."
Robin nodded. "It was slow at first. They obeyed, they followed orders... until one day, they didn't. The first act of defiance was subtle—ignoring commands, thinking for themselves. But it escalated. They united, formed their own ideals, and in the end..." Her hands clenched into fists. "The Nico family was outnumbered. Outmatched. The clones knew everything we did. They were us, but without restraint. Without hesitation. So the clan made more clones to suppress that rebellion, but they were caught in a catch 22, clone with low to middle intelligence couldn't survive the war while the smart ones soon joined the other side after being created, and so the clones kept multiplying while the clansmen of Nico household decreased every single day."
Nami shuddered. "And you...? How did you survive?" "I didn't just survive, I was the one who put an end to that war 12 years ago when I was 18. At that time, my parents, as well as other clansmen have been captured and killed by their own clones, I was the only one left of my bloodline, the only original Nico left, because I haven't created any clone of my own at that time, I was hesitated when looking at the thing my family deemed their glorious creations, my fear was raised, but none listened, my family was arrogant enough to think the clones would never betray them"
Robin's voice was steady, but there was a heaviness to it, a weight that pressed on everyone in the room. She wasn't just telling a story—she was reliving it. Rias comes to Robin "How did you end it? How could you stop a war where all odds were against you?" Robin sighs as she draws a spell circle on the console for everyone to see, a big, complicated spell that everyone looks at in awe, Arto looks through the spell as his mind clicks "You used this spell to wipe them out? All of them?"
"All of them" Robin said "Took me every moment of 4 years to perfect this spell from when I was 14 when the war broke out, each symbol was the only hope for me against those clones" she then turns to Arto and hugs him "If only you came to me sooner with those spell-making formulas, things wouldn't have been so painful, I could've created that spell in minutes with those formulas, but you're 16 years late" Arto looks down at her seeing her like this, she places a kiss on his lips "I don't blame you, my love, I couldn't control or anticipate your arrival from the Void, I just said it to...."
"I know, don't worry, Robin, I know. Sorry for arriving too late, my dear" A deep silence followed their exchange, the weight of Robin's past settling over everyone like a heavy fog. Even Nami, who usually had something clever to say, was speechless. Rias looked at the spell Robin had drawn, her sharp crimson eyes analyzing every intricate detail. "This level of magic... it's beyond anything I've seen. A spell like this, one designed to completely erase an entire force of enemies... How much did it take out of you?"
Robin let out a soft chuckle, her arms still loosely wrapped around Aruto. "Everything." She pulled back slightly, her fingers tracing the edge of the spell diagram. "When I finally activated it, I wasn't sure if I would survive. The energy cost was enormous. I had to pour every ounce of my will, my soul, into it. And when it was over..." Her voice grew softer. "I was the only one left standing."
"So in a way, you wiped out your entire family?" Akeno asks while tracing her fingers along the spell circle "To some extents, you're right, I did wipe out my household, but it wasn't my family anymore, it was nothing more than an army of clones, that I want to destroy before they could reach further from our secretive domain"
"But aren't you afraid, Robin? Diving back into such research, aren't you afraid the clones might betray you one day?" Akeno asks with concern filled her eyes, Robin turns from the control panel's screen towards Arto and kisses him "That's where this beloved man of mine came in" she pulls out from her pocket a device so small she had to place it on the control panel to zoom in for everyone to see "This is the Command Protocol, it's inside each clone of mine and it keeps the clones in check and completely under my command, it was only until Arto gave me this I continued the research my ancestors left behind again"
Grayfia examined the Command Protocol closely. "This technology... it's far beyond what I expected. Arto, you created this?" Arto chuckled. "Robin had the genius and power to create clones, but she needed a safeguard—something that would ensure absolute obedience. So I designed this protocol for her. It works on a deep neural level, ensuring that the clones never develop the same desires for freedom that doomed the Nico household."
Nami tapped her chin. "But if that's the case, does that mean your clones are just puppets? No free will at all?" Robin shook her head. "Not entirely. They are capable of independent thought within the boundaries I set. They can adapt, learn, and even develop personalities—but at the end of the day, my will is absolute. If I say kneel, they kneel. If I say destroy, they destroy."
Rias crossed her arms, a mix of intrigue and caution in her eyes. "So you're saying they're aware, but they'll never turn against you because of this protocol?" Arto nodded. "Exactly. This protocol doesn't suppress their intelligence or abilities. It just prevents them from developing a sense of self that conflicts with Robin's command. They'll never see themselves as separate entities—they'll always be her extensions."
Grayfia exhaled softly. "A failsafe your ancestors never had. It's brilliant... and terrifying." Robin's smirk widened "I'll take that as a compliment. Now, let's wrap these things up so that we can prepare for the main event of tonight" she exclaims happily as she turns off the simulation and calls RC-03 out "You've done your job nicely, RC-03, you can go rest now" Robin's clone nods respectfully "Thank you, Creator" she goes back to her tank as the liquid fills the space, putting her in the rest she earned, her clothes were removed and the tank was pushed back into the sector where Robin's 5 clones are.
She then turns to the whole family, her voice is cheerful again as if the story she told never happened "Leaving everything behind, let's head to the main event of tonight–the real activation of interdimensional portal, we have successfully activated the portal in the Endless, now it's about time we see if it could work in the real world"
Akeno comes to Robin with a worried voice "Are you truly okay, Robin?" Robin takes Akeno's hand, reassuring her "I'm truly okay, Akeno, I really do, I told my story for you to know, not for you to grief. Everything is done and nothing could be reversed, I regretted none of my action, and I have had 12 years to move on, and I have moved on from that to embrace my new life in this family, with everyone"
Akeno held Robin's hand for a moment longer, searching her face for any sign of lingering pain. Seeing the warmth and certainty in her eyes, she finally smiled. "Alright, I trust you. But just remember, you don't have to carry everything alone anymore."
Robin squeezed Akeno's hand gently before stepping forward, facing the group with renewed excitement. "Now then! We've made history once today with our simulation test, but tonight... Tonight we take a step into the unknown."
Everyone moves outside of the Sandbox sector and walks down the long hall of doors leading to sectors of Simulation Room, the place is as lively as ever with scientists from Gremory and Sitri clan moving back and forth the hall, in and put the sectors "Good day to you, Lord and Ladies" scientists greet them respectfully before getting on their way to their research sectors.
"Lively as ever, heh?" Arto smirks with amusement "Of course, this room did save them so much time waiting for the effects and so much money for experiments and research, what kind of scientist wouldn't want to be here? We're lucky to have you on our side, love~" Rias places a kiss on Arto's cheek. The groups move down the hall until they reach the Arena sector, inside Koneko and Kuroka are training Senjutsu together.
"It looks like they are playing instead of sparring, it's good to have them together again" Aruto watched as Koneko and Kuroka move fluidly, their Senjutsu energy intertwining like two halves of the same soul. Their sparring wasn't just about strength—it was a dance, a harmony between siblings who had finally reunited after years of separation.
As they watched, Koneko lunged forward with a sudden burst of speed, her fist glowing with Senjutsu energy. Kuroka gracefully sidestepped but flicked her tail at the last second, knocking Koneko slightly off course. The younger sister landed on her feet, huffing in frustration.
"Too slow, Shirone~" Kuroka teased, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief. Koneko narrowed her eyes. "Again." Aruto chuckled. "She's got that fire. I like it."
"We have another fire going over here, master, take a look~" Albedo tugs Arto's shirt and points at another part of the Arena where the whole place is on fire, in the middle of it, Kiba and Erza are sparring. While Kiba has multiple swords with endless effects with him, Erza isn't behind as her armors shift constantly to fight against Kiba's agility.
Kiba's swords flashed like streaks of light, each one carrying a unique enchantment—one crackled with electricity, another shimmered with ice, while a third bent space itself, distorting his movements. His speed was unmatched, weaving through Erza's relentless offense with the precision of a master duelist.
But Erza was no slouch. With each of Kiba's attacks, her armor shifted instantaneously—one moment, she was clad in the Adamantine Armor, deflecting blows with an indestructible shield; the next, she donned the Flight Armor, increasing her speed to match Kiba's footwork. Flames erupted around her as she switched to the Flame Empress Armor, resisting the intense heat that had engulfed their battlefield.
"She's insane," Nami muttered, shielding her eyes from the light. "How can she keep up with Kiba's speed and counter his weapons at the same time?" Arto chuckled. "That's Erza for you. She's not just fighting—she's adapting in real-time. Her magic allows her to change armor instantly, meaning she always has the right defense for any situation. These 2 have been training relentlessly with the standard regimen of Abyssgard legion. And based on what I'm seeing now, they have undoubtedly met the standard of Abyssgard soldiers, maybe even more with their unique abilities, this is indeed very fascinating to watch"
As Arto was watching, Nami dragged him by his shirt "Arto! PORTAL!!" "Oh, right, sorry, let us move on" Arto scratches his head as he joins his women. The group then reaches the end of the hall, a door appears before them 'Sector 80: Interdimensional Portal' "Well, let's head in, shall we?" Arto invites his ladies to head in first, they gracefully enter the sector with Nami being the most excited one about this matter.
"Let's fire this baby up" Nami exclaims as she comes to the portal's control panel and quickly activates it, the runes on the portal start glowing and the engine sound humming in the room as a swirl of energy is forming in the portal. Everyone braces themselves to face whatever comes next. The swirl expands to cover the frame of the portal as it glows brightly, Arto and his harem cover their eyes before the scene, and the next moment when the light dies down, a new world appears before them on the other side of the portal.
As the swirling energy settles and the portal's glow fades, the group finds themselves staring into a breathtaking vista unlike anything they've seen before. Rolling emerald hills slope gently toward a crystalline lake, where the water glimmers in a hue that's almost otherworldly. Cascading waterfalls pour from cliffs that rise to impossible heights, and perched atop one of those cliffs is a grand, elegant castle, its spires reaching for the sky.
Vibrant trees in shades of pink, orange, and gold stand in stark contrast to the lush greenery, their branches arching gracefully over winding pathways. The air seems charged with a gentle, magical hum—like nature itself is alive and singing. Soft mist drifts across the valley, revealing glimpses of hidden bridges and stone arches that connect secluded nooks of this enchanted landscape. Nami's eyes widened, her excitement practically radiating off her. "Oh... my... goodness. It's beautiful!"
Robin steps closer to the portal's threshold, analyzing the scene with keen interest. "The energy signature here feels different—like a subtle current running through everything." Grayfia gives a small nod, eyes narrowed in concentration. "Indeed. It's as though the very air is infused with mana. Or something like it."
Akeno tilts her head, letting her gaze roam over the distant castle. "Well, that place certainly looks important. A fortress? A city? Or maybe a royal palace?" Arto, still holding onto the portal's control interface, exhales slowly. "This is it—our first real step into another dimension. The readings are stable. I can't sense any immediate hostility or distortion. Or maybe it's just that we haven't met the native people here yet"
"I've found the perfect place for our date, master~Can we head in right now and spend our time?" Albedo says as she pulls Arto by his arm, Arto despite having a little hesitation "Alright, let's head in a little to see what this world has to offer" he then turns to other women of his "Well, ladies, shall we~?" One by one, Rias, Akeno, Robin and Grayfia come to Arto, preparing to head to the new world, except for Nami "Big sis Nami, what's wrong?" Rias asks as she comes to Nami, trying to pull her with them, but Nami shakes her head "Go head everyone, I'll stay behind to mind the portal, I need some clarifications about the operation of the portal so that I can complete my calculation for INA to help us navigate our destinations more easily, so go ahead and have some fun, I'll be right over here"
Arto hesitated for a moment longer, but Albedo was already tugging on his arm, practically vibrating with excitement. "Come on, Master. The day isn't getting any longer!" With a final nod to Nami, Arto turned toward the portal. One by one, the rest of the group followed him through, stepping into the vivid, dreamlike world. The moment they crossed the threshold, they felt the air grow slightly warmer, and the faint hum of energy surrounding them grew more pronounced. Grayfia took in the sweeping landscape, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "It's even more breathtaking up close. The mana here is as dense as in our world."
Robin, already scanning the environment with her usual analytical focus, stepped ahead. "The plants, the atmosphere... Everything seems to be in perfect harmony. It's as though nature and magic coexist seamlessly here. This is a good start" Akeno chuckled softly. "Well, we're lucky the portal led us here instead of some disastrous worlds. And it's definitely a romantic spot for a date, Albedo. You've got a good eye." Albedo beamed, her excitement palpable. "I'm only aiming for the best for my beloved Master." She slid her arm through Arto's, holding him close.
"We're indeed really lucky to find a place like this, we haven't gotten the exact location of this world in the navigating system Nami was making, but this world is worth a revisit in the future" Arto inhaled deeply, taking in the crisp, fragrant air. The subtle hum of magic tingled across his skin, making him feel more awake and alive than usual.
Grayfia stepped closer to a cluster of vibrant, otherworldly flora, her analytical gaze never wavering. "The mana here is rich and pure. It might offer us insights into different magical phenomena. I'd love to collect some samples—if you don't mind a little detour."
Robin adjusted her glasses, taking careful mental notes. "Every detail here is significant. The interplay of nature and magic suggests an ecosystem that's evolved in harmony. This could be a key to understanding how interdimensional energies work."
Albedo squeezed Arto's arm affectionately, her excitement undimmed. "Master, I say we explore a bit more. There might be hidden wonders waiting just beyond that grove." Her smile radiates warmth, and Arto couldn't help but return a soft smile in response.
Akeno laughed softly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Always the adventurous one, aren't you, Albedo? But let's not forget—this could also be the perfect spot for that little date you've been planning."
Rias joined in with a teasing smile. "Don't get too carried away. We're here on a mission, after all. Though I must admit, this place does have a certain charm."
Arto rubbed the back of his neck, torn between duty and desire. "All right, then. Let's split up into two groups. Robin, Grayfia, and I will scout the immediate area and gather data. Akeno, Albedo, and Rias—you all check out that groove over there. See what kind of... recreational opportunities it might offer for our next rendezvous."
Their banter carried a light-hearted tone, balancing the weight of their responsibilities with the thrill of discovery. As the group divided, the soft crunch of leaves and the gentle murmur of distant waterfalls filled the air. Each step brought them deeper into the mysteries of this vibrant world—a world that promised both knowledge and delight.
Back at the heart of the clearing, Arto paused, his gaze lingering on the horizon where the crystalline lake met the towering cliffs. The sense of wonder mingled with purpose, reminding him that every new world carried secrets waiting to be unraveled—and perhaps, new memories to be forged with the people who mattered most.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto sitting at a cliff with his harem looking at the horizon)
"That was indeed a refreshing experience," Arto remarked as he stepped through the portal, his boots touching the familiar floor of their base once more. His harem followed closely behind, each carrying their own lingering sense of wonder from the breathtaking world they had just explored.
Albedo stretched her arms above her head, sighing in satisfaction. "It was more than refreshing, Master. It was magical. That world was the perfect place for a future retreat... or a honeymoon~" she teased, flashing a playful smirk. Rias chuckled, shaking her head. "You're always thinking ahead, aren't you, Albedo?" Akeno let out a soft laugh, her violet eyes shimmering with amusement. "I must admit, though, she has a point. That place had an enchanting charm to it. A perfect mix of peace and mystery."
Robin adjusted her gloves, already deep in thought. "The ambient mana alone could provide valuable research. If we can map the coordinates properly, we could make regular expeditions there. Nami, how's the progress on INA?" Nami, still by the portal's control panel, turned towards them with a confident grin. "Almost there. I made some adjustments while you were out. With the data you collected, I should be able to calibrate the navigation system within the hour. Soon, we'll be able to pinpoint not just that world, but others like it. I've also made some adjustments so that we can pinpoint where the portal will appear"
Grayfia nodded approvingly. "That will be useful. Having control over our interdimensional travel will give us an advantage no one else has." Arto smirked as he placed his hands on his hips. "Then it sounds like we've got our next steps planned. But for now, let's rest. We've earned it." The portal behind them powered down, its runes dimming as the swirling energy dissipated. Though their journey to that new world had ended, Arto knew this was only the beginning.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Chibi Arto receives a call from Doctor Faunas)
"Finally!!!" Nami yells "It's done, finally done, that boring final test has been finished!" Arto walks next to Nami and lets out a chuckle "You hated the test that much, huh?" Nami snorts "Who wouldn't? I came here to experience the joy of going to school, not taking tests. Besides, those tests were boringly easy, especially the math test, where was the challenge?" she complains to Arto "Well, said the person who used math to map out the entire sea of worlds" Nami smirked, flipping her hair back proudly. "Exactly! When you've navigated entire dimensions using complex calculations, a simple high school test is nothing but child's play."
Arto chuckled, shaking his head. "You could've at least pretended to struggle a little. The other students were practically dying in there." Nami waved a dismissive hand. "It's not my fault they don't know how to apply basic equations. Besides, I wasn't the only one breezing through it. You finished in half the time and spent the rest of the period napping, you didn't even take a second look at the test after you finished it. And when the result was sent out, the one and only Aruto Abyga will be at rank one again" Arto grinned. "Well, not just me, the school has gotten used to us sharing top 1 the whole year, yeah?"
Rias chimes into the conversation "Indeed, Arto~ It's nice to have someone sharing the cold top" she leans closer to him "Especially when those people are my boyfriend and my beloved big sis" Rias then comes to hug Nami from behind as they walk together. Not leaving Arto to stay alone for too long, Akeno takes the spot from behind him and hugs him tightly, she whispers to his ears "Ara ara~Looks like my smart boyfriend has once again aced the tests, but just so you know, when the chart is out, the one who will be at the top of that chart...."
"....is you" Arto ended "Only because your name is ahead of me in the alphabet, that's what I call birth advantage" Akeno giggles as she nuzzles deeper into Arto's neck "Then me, Nami and Rias will be right behind you. Too bad Sona and Tsubaki will be behind us of course.....their names, despite their scores are perfect as well" Nami chuckles "Too bad we can't score any higher, the scoring system of the school can only do so much, maybe only there we can determine who is the smartest between us"
"Let's save that for another time, because we have a vacation before us, a month without school would give us enough time to enjoy whatever we want" Rias smiled, stretching her arms as if shaking off the weight of the exams. "Finally, some real freedom. No classes, no tests, just us and a whole month to do whatever we want."
Akeno hummed in delight, still clinging to Arto. "Ara ara~ A full month together... So many possibilities." Nami smirked, flipping her hair. "I already have a few plans in mind. Of course, they involve traveling—maybe even exploring some of those unknown coordinates I mapped out in the interdimensional sea." Excitement quickly invade the group's mind "Well, that's where we'll be heading, to a trip to another world"
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto's portal opening to a beach in another world)
"Alright, everyone, before we head out for our vacation together, you'll need to put something on yourselves before we head into the portal" Arto announces as he gives each of his women a bracelet "This thing will lead you back home when needed, it's embedded with the information about out home world and a force command to the portal to take us home, if things get dire and the portal wasn't working, this will be our way back to safety. This bracelet will also be our communicator, so keep it closely to yourself, you'll need it"
Rias examined the bracelet with curiosity, rolling it around her wrist. "Impressive. You really do think of everything, Arto." Akeno smirked as she fastened hers. "Ara ara~ Always so reliable. Though, I do hope we won't have to use these. I'd rather our vacation be smooth and pleasurable." She shot him a teasing glance.
Robin adjusted hers carefully, analyzing the runes embedded into the device. "This technology... It's remarkable. You managed to synchronize interdimensional coordinates with an emergency recall function? That's no small feat." Arto grinned. "Well, I did have some help. Nami's calculations were essential for fine-tuning the navigation, and Grayfia handled the enchantments to ensure stability."
Nami flipped her hair proudly. "Obviously. If we're going to be jumping between worlds, I want to make sure we never get stranded. I refuse to be stuck in some prehistoric wasteland with dinosaurs." Grayfia, who had been silently inspecting her own bracelet, nodded. "It's a necessary precaution. The unknown always carries risks, even for us."
Albedo clung to Arto's arm, gazing at him with admiration. "Master is always so thorough. It makes me love you even more~" Arto chuckled. "Alright, alright. Enough flattery. Everyone ready?" A collective nod of excitement ran through the group. Nami stepped up to the portal controls. "Then let's do this." She activated the console, the runes glowing as the energy swirl expanded once more, revealing the vast unknown on the other side.
"Next" Nami said as another world appeared before them "Not this one, let's move on"The portal shimmered as the scene before them shifted again, revealing a dark, stormy landscape with jagged cliffs and ominous clouds swirling in the sky. Lightning crackled in the distance.
"Yeah, no thanks," Rias said flatly, crossing her arms. "Next."
Nami sighed and tapped the control panel. The stormy world faded, replaced by a lush, futuristic city with towering crystalline structures and floating platforms. Hovering vehicles zipped through the air, and the streets below bustled with life.
Akeno tilted her head. "This looks interesting... but maybe a bit too busy for a vacation."
Robin analyzed the energy readings on her scanner. "The mana levels are unstable. Likely advanced technology compensating for a natural deficiency. It could be dangerous if their systems fail."
Arto nodded. "Alright, next."
The portal swirled again, and this time, it revealed an endless ocean with small islands scattered across the horizon. The sun glowed warmly, and the sound of gentle waves filled the air.
Nami's eyes sparkled. "Ooooh, now this I like." Albedo leaned into Arto. "It is quite beautiful, Master~"
Grayfia crossed her arms, observing the islands. "It looks peaceful. And given our collective strength, we would have no trouble handling any surprises."
Kuroka is brimming with joy as she launches forward to see the world before he "This will be a good place to nap, nyan~This cat loves this place" Koneko shakes her head seeing how wild her sister gets
Arto grinned. "Well then... Shall we?" With excitement buzzing in the air, the group stepped forward, ready to explore their new tropical paradise.
As they stepped through the portal, the warm breeze greeted them, carrying the scent of salt and tropical flowers. The sand beneath their feet was soft, almost silk-like, and the clear turquoise waters stretched as far as the eye could see.
Nami inhaled deeply, grinning. "Now this is paradise." Kuroka had already sprawled out on the sand, stretching like a lazy cat in the sun. "Mmm~ Perfect for a nap, nyan~"
Koneko, standing beside her, sighed. "You could nap anywhere..." Robin was already surveying the land with analytical curiosity. "Judging by the climate and ecosystem, this world seems untouched by civilization. We may be the first intelligent beings to set foot here."
Albedo spun in place, taking in the beauty around her. "Master~ I think this calls for a celebration. A tropical getaway like this deserves some quality alone time~" She shot Arto a sly look.
Akeno giggled, her wings twitching as she stretched. "Ara ara~ I wouldn't mind that idea."
Rias, however, had her own plan. "Before we all get too comfortable, let's scout the area. We don't know if we're truly alone here." Grayfia nodded in agreement. "A wise decision. I'll ensure our safety while we explore."
Arto smirked. "There is no need, Robin has already done scouting the whole island, and from what she saw, there is little to worry about. What we need to do now is find food. Who has allergy for or can't handle seafood please raise your hand"
No one raises their hand. Robin adjusted her glasses. "Good. The surrounding waters are rich with marine life, and based on my scans, there are several edible fruits inland." Nami clapped her hands together. "Great! Then let's split up into 3 groups—one for fishing, one for gathering fruits and fresh water, one preparing our stay here"
Erza and Kiba are the first to step forward as Kiba summons a fishing net and some fishing equipment "We'll head to the sea to catch food, who's with us?" Erza asks, Nami raises her hand "I'll go with you so that we can fish in far away sea without losing our way home" Rias joins the fishing team as well "I'm heading out too, can't leave my big sis Nami alone anyway" the red-haired princess comes to hug her adopted big sis.
Arto nods "That's our fishing team, Grayfia, Albedo and I will handle preparing our little home for the stay" Grayfia and Albedo come to Arto "We'll have everything set up when you return for a grand barbeque" Grayfia exclaims "And a warm place to stay for you and...." She leans closer to Arto, blushing "....for us"
Robin turns to Kuroka, Koneko and Akeno "Then we'll head into the forest to find fruit and maybe some otherworldly herbs and spices for our feast" Kuroka runs forwards "On it, I've already sensed some fragrances that way" the black cat disappears into the forest, this makes Koneko gets serious as she chases behind Kuroka, Robin sighs "Such sisterly rivalry, how can this human catch up to them now?" Robin feels a warm embrace behind her "There is no need to worry, Robin, no matter how quick those 2 are, they are no match for lightning speed" her smile starts getting mischievous "Don't worry, I promise to be gentle"
"Akeno, wait....waittttttt......." Robin zaps into the forest with Akeno, leaving Arto, Grayfia and Albedo behind. Arto looks at the fishing team to see they are about to set sail with a boat they made using woods and spells and the competition starts rising between Kiba and Erza, while remaining silent, the situation says that they are aiming for the biggest fish. Seeing this, Rias has to step in to tell them "Alright, you 2, settle down, a big fish would be meaningless if it's inedible, so you can stop...." "So the challenge now is the biggest edible fish, yeah?" Erza asks with fire in her eyes "If you really want to turn this into a race, I don't mind at all" Kiba talks with his smile remaining but his aura shifted, matching that of Erza.
Nami sighed dramatically, rubbing her temples. "Oh great, another competition. You guys do realize this isn't a tournament, right?" Rias smirked, shaking her head. "Well, at least this will make sure we get a lot of food." She turned to Nami. "Are you sure you're ready for this?" Nami crossed her arms with a confident smirk. "Please. I'll just make sure neither of these two gets lost at sea in their battle frenzy." She then pushes Kiba and Erza to the boat to head out to the sea.
With the fishing squad heading out, it's only Arto, Grayfia and Albedo left to build the shelter, start a bonfire and prepare fresh water. Grayfia comes to hug Arto "Master, how large do you want our bedroom to be~? I'll make it happen for you, my love~" she then pulls out a set of beautiful designs of house for Arto to choose, Albedo chimes in as well "I like this one with large master bedroom and good soundproof, we can have sex all night without waking anyone up" she exclaims happily, Arto kisses Albedo and whispers to her "I know how much you want this, but not all of them want this, alright?" He whispers lightly as his hand rubs her cheek "I'll have sex with you in some private place when everyone is asleep, just the 2 of us, but not in the bedroom. I've already prepared a place deep in the jungle for us~" Arto kisses her again "We'll make love till morning, so prepare yourself, I won't be mercy~"
Albedo shivered with excitement at his touch, her golden eyes gleaming with desire. "Mmm~ Master, you always know how to make me happy~" she purred, leaning into his caress. Grayfia smirked, watching the two with a knowing expression. "As much as I enjoy watching this, we still need to build the shelter before nightfall." She gracefully spread out the blueprints, showing different designs. "Arto, which one do you prefer?" Arto took a moment to examine the layouts. One was a grand villa-style house with multiple rooms, another was a cozy yet elegant wooden lodge, and the third was a more open-concept beachside retreat.
He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "We don't need anything too extravagant, just something comfortable enough for all of us. I like the open-concept one—it blends well with the island, and we can enjoy the fresh air." Grayfia nodded approvingly. "A practical choice. We'll start construction immediately." With a flick of her wrist, she summoned magical tools and began working with expert precision. Arto then turns to Albedo "Your mission is to filter water, you know how, right?" The succubus nods as she forms a spell in her hand and summons a large tank from her magical vault
"Oh, I know, my dear~ You taught me more than that" She walks to the sea and sucks the water in from the sea, filters salt from it using the spell she formed, and into the tank which has been activated to purify the water to make it safe to drink and use. Arto nodded in approval before the work of his succubus, as he went to the center of the camp and pulled a coiled sword out of his vault. He quickly prepares the fire place for the whole family before pinning the sword down, the bonfire immediately lights up the whole camp as the sun starts setting
After that, Arto moves to where Grayfia was working on their shelter, he hugs her from behind and places a kiss on her neck "You've done well, my dear, but the fire and our food need you more than this shelter" Grayfia let out a soft, pleased sigh at his touch, her hands pausing their precise movements as she leaned back into him. "Mmm, my love~ Always knowing just what to say." She turned her head slightly, allowing him better access as a small, amused smile played on her lips. Their hands then move together, weaving magical commands for their shelter to be completed with materials flying into their places, completing their home for the time to come.
After that, Arto and Grayfia move to the fire to prepare for the barbeque, leaving the water system and electricity for Albedo to deal with. They list out the dishes they will cook with the fishes that Nami's team will bring back for them later "Are you excited, master~? What kind of otherworldly creature will they bring back? I hope they brought something edible back instead of the biggest one they could find" Grayfia says as she pulls out her chef equipment. Arto chuckles as he pulls out his own equipments as well "I'm more excited about the foreign spices and herbs Robin's team would bring back to us, they would bring many surprise factors to our meal"
"You wouldn't believe what we found in the forest" Robin's voice rings up as she and her group appear from the jungle and with a cart of fruit which was pulled by Koneko and baskets of herbs they found in the jungle. Robin brings the baskets towards Arto for him to see, Arto looks at the baskets as the fragrances of the other worldly herbs and spices flocking his nose. Arto reaches inside the basket and pulls out a piece of the spice plants Robin's group brought back "This one can help discard fishy smell and enhance the favor" he settles it down and picks up another one "This one smells like pepper of our world, we can use this with the salt Albedo extracted from water earlier to season the fish"
"Grayfia, come over here and help me list out what these plants can bring to the table" Grayfia moved gracefully over, eyes sparkling as she examined the herbs and spices. "Let's see," she began thoughtfully, picking up a small bundle of fragrant leaves. "This one seems ideal for marinades—it'll tenderize the meat, and the others... they're perfect for a dry rub. And these exotic fruits," she added, lifting a basket of vibrant, unfamiliar produce, "could serve as a refreshing side or even a tangy dessert."
Just then, the fishing team finally made their way back to the camp—soaking wet, grinning, and carrying with them a massive fish and a net full of sea creatures with various sizes. "We found dinner!" Erza yells as she carries the massive creature on her shoulder, Rias was right behind her carrying the thing with a grin "Look what we captured, Arto!!" Behind them, Kiba is carrying a big net with a lot of fishes inside, Nami was the one walking behind them all with a helpless look.
Nami sighed, shaking her head. "They found a challenge. I was just there to make sure we didn't get lost in the middle of the ocean while they wrestled that thing." Kuroka runs to them like a curious cat "Wooh~You caught this thing? Now I wish I was there with you" Kuroka climbs up the giant monster
"Ara ara~ you caught something incredible, I can imagine the sea floor turning into your wrestling ring" Akeno teases as she examines the fish "But are you sure we can eat this?" Akeno asks "Yes!!" Koneko shouts with glowing eyes
"No" Grayfia raises her voice when she comes to examine the fish "We can't eat this, it's too big, the meat would go bad quicker than we can process" Arto nods in agreement "I agree, this isn't something to eat, but something to remember. Alright, gather up, Nami, Rias, Kiba and Erza, let us take a picture with this majestic beast before releasing it back to the sea"
Nami sighed in relief. "Finally, some normal sense! I was starting to think we'd be eating this thing for weeks." Rias pouted slightly but nodded. "Alright, alright. At least we get to show off our victory first."
Erza, still looking slightly disappointed, crossed her arms. "It was a worthy opponent. A picture will have to do." Kiba chuckled. "At least we get bragging rights." Arto gestured for everyone to gather around as he pulled out a camera from his vault. "Alright, strike a pose!"
Rias wrapped an arm around Nami's shoulder, flashing a confident grin. Kiba knelt next to the fish, resting a hand on its side as if posing with a prized trophy. Erza stood proudly, her sword resting against her shoulder. Nami, ever the navigator, simply smirked, one hand on her hip.
"Say 'Legendary Catch'!" Arto called. "Legendary Catch!" The camera clicked, capturing the victorious moment. With their memory secured, Arto stepped forward, placing a hand on the massive fish. "Alright, let's get you back home, big guy."
Working together, they guided the colossal creature back into the ocean, watching as it swam off into the depths. Akeno chuckled. "Well, now that that's settled... What are we having for dinner?"
Robin smirked, motioning toward the actual catch, the net Kiba brought back with him"The other fishes we caught. You know, the ones that fit on a grill."
"Alright, go rest in our shelter, everybody, Grayfia and I will handle the cooking. Albedo has done setting up the water and electric system, so you'll have warm water to shower" Arto says, Grayfia smiled warmly. "Leave it to us. We'll prepare a feast worthy of our legendary adventurers."
As the others headed toward the shelter, chatting about the day's events, Arto and Grayfia got to work. Arto inspected the fresh catch, selecting the best fish for grilling. "Alright, we'll go with a simple salt-and-herb rub for some, and for the rest, we can experiment with the spices Robin's group found."
Grayfia nodded, already expertly filleting a large fish with swift, precise cuts. "I'll handle the prep work; you take care of the fire and seasoning." Arto chuckled. "Teamwork as always." the 2 share a kiss before getting to work, Grayfia skillfully pre-process the seafoods and fills their bellies with herbs and rubs the outside with spices before putting them in a marinating cabinet embedded with time-dilation function while Arto prepares the grilling equipments
After a few minutes, the herbs and spices have worked their magic in the fishes, shrimps, octopus, squids and lobsters, Grayfia pulls out enough fishes for cooking, storing some away in case they need more and putting the rest in the preserving cabinet embedded with a spell that preserves foods' condition. She brings the fishes to the bonfire for Arto to grill.
As Grayfia brought the marinated seafood to the bonfire, Arto was already tending to the flames, making sure the heat was just right. He laid out the fish first, carefully positioning them on the grill so they would cook evenly. The sizzling sound filled the air as the spices and herbs blended into the meat, sending an irresistible aroma throughout the camp.
Grayfia, always precise, set aside the shrimps, octopus, squids, and lobsters, ready to be grilled next. "I'll baste them with the special sauce we made earlier," she said, brushing a rich, herb-infused mixture over the seafood. "Goodness, they smell heavenly, the sauce you made really is something else, even with spices from another world" Grayfia giggles "Of course, I'm your head maid after all, everything must be perfect for my master"
As the bonfire crackled, sending warm golden light flickering across their camp, the rich aroma of grilled seafood and exotic spices filled the air. The smell quickly caught the attention of the others, and soon, everyone was drawn back to the fire, eagerly awaiting their meal.
Kuroka practically bounced over. "Nyaa~ That smells heavenly! How much longer?" Akeno chuckled. "Patience, Kuroka. Good things take time." Robin adjusted her glasses, eyeing the grilling process. "The balance of flavors is impressive. This will be quite the feast." Nami crossed her arms. "As long as I get the biggest lobster, I don't care." Rias smirked. "We'll see about that."
"Have a seat everybody, let's not get savage here, we still have more coming" Arto gestures to the table where everything has been set out, waiting for the feast to come. Finally, as the seafood reached perfection, Arto plated the first servings. The fish glistened, golden and flaky, while the shrimp and lobster had a perfectly grilled sheen. Grayfia added the final touch—freshly chopped herbs from their jungle findings.
"Alright, everyone," Arto announced, handing out the plates. "Time to eat." The first bites were met with silence—then a wave of satisfied hums. Akeno sighed in pleasure. "Mmm~ Ara, ara... I think I'm in love." Robin smirked. "The combination of flavors... this is truly a masterpiece." Erza, who had been unusually quiet, suddenly grabbed another piece. "I require more."
As the group laughed, ate, and enjoyed the night under the stars, Arto felt a deep warmth settle in his chest. A perfect meal, in a perfect place, with the people he cherished most, and they still have a month ahead together
Notes:
What do you think RC-03 did to Issei and his friends?
Chapter 30: The witch (part 1)
Summary:
New adventure with an unexpected companion
Chapter Text
3rd POV
"That's the best vacation ever" Nami exclaims as she steps through the portal, heading home after a month of vacation in the island of another world, she is followed by Robin "Indeed, I've never had such a vacation before, no sound ringing in my ears or images flash through my eyes from my information network, I was completed left alone" Robin stretches her body as she walks through the portal "Wooh! That's a lot of information....." she stumbles back with a tidal wave of information hitting her mind, but Robin soon regains her control over the sea of information in her mind "Not so fast, I'm the master, and you will behave" She mutters as she closes her eyes to reorganize her operation with the information network.
Suddenly, Nami's phone rings, and she picks it up. "Nami, listening, what is the matter?...... Oh, right, right, I'll be there right away." She turns back to the family with her face filled with excitement "Sorry, I'm needed now, so see you later" Rias comes out from the portal "Where are you going? Nami!" Rias yells behind her big sis, Nami turns back with a wide smile "I'm heading to the launch of Abyga Ltd, and as the founder, I must be there" Nami disappears with a teleportation spell.
"And there she goes" Akeno says as she follows behind Rias "Hahh~Only money could make her that excited" Rias sighs "She'll be home by dinner, now we need to have a look at the papers we left behind in our vacation, c'mon, president~" Akeno drags Rias by her collar away "Wait, wait, Akeno, just give me one more day off, I haven't rested enough, Akeno!" But Akeno doesn't loosen her grip and her smiling face as Rias was pulled out of sector 80 to her office in Sector 20: The office, ORC's president groans and complaints are still being heard until her shadow was out of sight.
"We can only wish Rias could do okay in her office" Kiba walks out of the portal "She'll be alright, things have been like this for a while now, slacking off, Akeno stepped in, complaints, daily routine" Koneko states as she walks out as well, on her back is a sleeping Kuroka "Fish~.....Arto~.....give me....Nyan~....another one~.....Cat hungry" Koneko smiles but a smile appears on her face nonetheless seeing her sister like this
"How in the heck is she so thin? She ate 3 times as much as I do" Erza walks out of the portal with her eyes widened looking at Kuroka's slim body. Kiba chuckled at Erza's disbelief. "You forget, she's a nekoshou. That metabolism of hers is something else." Koneko, still carrying her sleeping sister, sighed. "She burns it off just as fast as she eats it. If she didn't, she'd be as big as a house by now." Erza crossed her arms. "That's so unfair. I train every day and still have to watch what I eat." She follows Kiba and Koneko out of the simulation room for rest
The last people coming out of the portal was Arto, he is being clinged to by Albedo "Oh Master~ Can we do it again? I've had nothing but pure pleasure when you claimed me wholly and completely back there, you did it again and again throughout our nights together, filled me up time after time with your seed till sunrise, I'm officially addicted to you, my master~" she purrs into his ears, Arto smiles and pats her head "That's just once in a while thing, alright? Don't expect it to be an everyday thing" Albedo rubs her face against his shoulder "I know, my love, your succubus is aware of her limits, but I expect this all-night sex session once a month...."
"Not so fast, Albedo, master is a human, he can't keep up with your indulgence, and don't talk to me about him being a superhuman, he is still a human at his core, so refrain yourself or I'll have to freeze you up to cool you hot desire down" Grayfia states firmly as she walks behind Arto. Albedo pouted but still clung tightly to Arto. "Fufu~ You're no fun, Grayfia. You already had your turn, yet you lecture me about restraint?" She smirked mischievously, her golden eyes gleaming. "For your information, master hasn't had sex with any of his women but you, so you're the only one who needs to know about limit and restraint in this house"
"Don't lecture me, Grayfia, master's love is essential for my life, it keeps me alive, and you expect me to hunger myself to maintain this decency. Give me a break, head maid" Albedo shots back, but Grayfia still maintain her stern attitude "Love, L-O-V-E, not semen, there are lots of ways to express love, you just picked sex because it was the most hefty one and that way you can have master all for yourself"
Arto sighed, rubbing his temples. "Alright, you two, that's enough." Grayfia and Albedo both turned toward him, their eyes locked in a silent battle of wills, but at his words, they reluctantly backed down."Grayfia has a point, Albedo," Arto said gently. "Love isn't just about physical intimacy. It's about trust, connection, and support. I care about all of you, and I don't want any of you feeling like you have to fight over me."
Albedo crossed her arms, pouting. "But Master..." Arto placed a hand on her cheek, his touch soft. "I know what you feel, and I appreciate it. But our bond isn't just about what happens in the bedroom. You're more than that, Albedo. And I won't let you reduce yourself to just my lover. You're part of my family."
Albedo's eyes widened slightly before softening. She melted into his hand, closing her eyes for a moment. "Master... You always know how to soothe my heart." She sighed, her playful demeanor returning. "Fine, I'll behave... for now~."
"That's better, now, it's time for some rest so that we can go back to our duties tomorrow" Grayfia says as she pulls Arto's other arm and leads him and Albedo to the bedroom.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Albedo looking intently at her master's photo while giggling)
Arto sits in his study looking over the papers sent to him from the scientists of Sitri Clan and Gremory Clan about their opinions about the rooms and what he can improve in the next update batch for the room. Arto looks through the papers one by one and notes down the problems they encountered so that he can fix them. Out of nowhere, his phone rings, he picks up to see a familiar name, he answers
"You haven't taken my advice seriously have you, Arto?" Doctor Faunas asks seriously through the phone "No, doctor, a lot of matters arising since I came home" Arto scratches his head "I warned you, didn't I? I let you discharge sooner than you should with a condition that you agreed. You should have taken action immediately when you came home. A little trip won't make them die out of missing you" Arto sighs "That's the problem, doctor, I promised them not to leave them any time soon. I've just came back for a while, I can't leave them again, I've hurted them enough when I left them last time"
"You can talk to them, you know, leaving them oblivious about your health condition would only make them more worried" Arto looks down "I get it, I'll do as you say" Arto says defeatedly "Good, this is for your health in the long run, so don't play with it, alright. Okay, goodbye for now" She hangs up, Arto sighs
"My suspicion has been solved" Robin talks from behind Arto, making him jump "Robin! When did you come here?" He asks, voice filled with surprise. Robin comes closer to him and checks his face "Long enough to know what was happening to you. I've had suspects from when you returned. From that point on, your health hasn't improved at all, it got worse even at some points. What is the matter, Arto? Tell me" she commands.
Arto bows his head "It's the effect of demonic energy, it causing imbalance within my body, Rias, Akeno, Grayfia, and Albedo are all demonic creatures, and I sleep with them everyday, bath with them regularly, the energy they radiate is causing my body to weaken. Not to mention they get stronger everyday under my training, worsening my condition"
"I didn't remember you were in such a condition before" Robin wonders "From the time I locked myself in the simulation room for a month, it has greatly damaged my immune system. So when I came back, my body couldn't protect me anymore as thing went down from there" Arto explains while scratching his head
Robin's expression darkened as she crossed her arms. "And you were just going to keep this to yourself?" Arto let out a slow sigh. "I didn't want to worry anyone. I don't want them to feel guilty about my condition now" Robin narrowed her eyes. "Arto, you absolute idiot. Do you think they'd prefer being ignorant while watching you waste away right in front of them? Or would they rather know and actually help?"
Arto clenched his fists. He knew she was right, but it wasn't that simple. Robin softened slightly and sat on the desk in front of him. "Listen, I get it. You don't want them to feel guilty or scared. But you're being reckless. If you collapse one day, what then? Do you think they'd forgive themselves for not noticing? Do you think I would?" Arto looked up at her, guilt flashing across his face. Robin sighed. "So, what's the solution? What did the doctor say?"
"Doctor said I need to head somewhere far away from them for the demonic effect to die out completely before returning to them. Faunas recommended a town called Vigrid, which is a place where the connection between human realm and heaven is the strongest, the town itself has the power to cleanse demonic energy, she asked me to stay there for a new weeks before returning home" Arto answers warily "So you have to leave us again?" Arto nods to Robin's question "How long?"
"A month or more" Robin frowned, processing his words. "A month..." She exhaled sharply, then looked him dead in the eye. "You know they won't take this well." Arto chuckled bitterly. "Yeah... I know." Robin tilted her head slightly. "Are you planning to just leave quietly? Sneak away without telling them?" Arto hesitated, but Robin's sharp gaze didn't let him dodge the question. "I don't know if I could leave, you know how much I dislike being alone, but you all can't come with me, Rias and others couldn't of course because they are demonic creatures, Vigrid would wound them, you have everything here to run, Nami has her newly launched Abyga Ltd to manage with tons of works regarding the hospital of Sitri clan"
"So you have been holding yourself here while your body is dying without any solutions?" Robin asks concernedly "I've been quickening the researching process of the healing beans, but it's taking longer than expected, I don't know....."
"Quiet!" Robin commands, making Arto's lips tightened "You're heading to Vigrid, no question, no excuse, no delay, I don't care about your reason for hesitating. You'll go, and you'll do what's necessary. But you're not leaving without telling them. They deserve to know why you're doing this."
The scolding ends with a kiss "I love you, Arto, we love you so much. I can't bear seeing you breaking down like this, and they do too, so don't get reckless, it hurts us more than it hurts you. I'll call them here to hear you out, but you have to explain everything to us about your condition, no more hiding. We've been through a month without you, and if another month is what's needed to get you healthy and strong again to love us, so be it"
After a few moments, the whole family is here, Rias was the first to say "What is it, Robin? Your call seemed urgent" she asks when coming into the room, Grayfia, Akeno, Nami, Albedo follow her as well, Robin sighs "Come in, everyone, our beloved Arto has something to share" The door was closed when everyone is inside, their eyes are on Arto, waiting for him to talk. Arto felt the weight of their gazes pressing down on him. His fingers curled into fists on his lap as he tried to find the right words. No matter how many times he played the conversation in his head, saying it out loud felt impossible.
"I'll have to leave you again" Silence fills the room as Arto mentions leaving his lovers again, Albedo steps forwards "Master, what are you talking about? Why are you leaving us again?" Seeing her desperate eyes, he can't bring himself to say another word "Calm down, Albedo, let him finish" the succubus steps back but her eyes remain unchanged. Arto takes a deep breathe before continuing "It's because of the demonic energy you girls radiate, it's causing imbalance in my just recovered body with weak immune system, it has been weakening me since the they I returned to you, I've been pushing the research of the healing method for a while but it wasn't fast enough"
A tense silence filled the room, thick with unspoken emotions. Arto could see the shift in their expressions—concern, frustration, sadness—all colliding at once.Rias' crimson eyes darkened. "And you were just going to keep this from us?" Her voice was calm, but the underlying hurt was unmistakable. Akeno crossed her arms, her usual playful demeanor nowhere in sight. "So that's why you've been getting worse... Why didn't you say anything, Arto?" Arto clenched his fists, struggling to meet their eyes. "Because I didn't want you to feel guilty," he admitted. "It's not your fault, it's mine"
Albedo shook her head, her golden eyes trembling. "That's not the point! We're your family, your lovers—we should've known, we should've helped! Instead, you've been suffering in silence!" Nami sighed, running a hand through her hair. "So what now? What's the solution?"
Arto hesitated, then spoke the words he knew would hurt them. "Doctor Faunas recommended I go to Vigrid. It's a place with strong holy energy, which can cleanse the demonic influence on my body." Grayfia's silver eyes narrowed slightly. "And how long do you need to stay there?"
Arto hesitated again. "A month... maybe more." Albedo inhaled sharply, her hands trembling at her sides. "No..." she whispered, taking a step back. Rias took a deep breath. "A month without you..." She shook her head. "We just got you back, Arto."
"I know," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "And I don't want to leave you again. But if I don't go, I won't get better. And if I collapse one day because I kept pushing through... wouldn't that be worse?" The weight of his words settled in, making everyone fall silent. Robin finally spoke up, stepping beside him. "I already told him—he's not going to sneak away this time. We're all going to face this together."
Akeno sighed and walked toward him, kneeling beside his chair. "Arto..." She reached out and took his hand gently. "If this is what you need to do, then we'll support you. But promise us something." Arto met her gaze. "Anything."
"Don't shut us out," Akeno said firmly. "Stay in touch. Let us know how you're doing. No disappearing, no suffering alone." Rias nodded. "We'll find a way to help, even if we can't be there." Rias nodded. "We'll find a way to help, even if we can't be there."
Albedo wiped at her eyes before crossing her arms. "I don't like this... but I won't stop you. Just—just come back to us, alright?" Grayfia gave him a small nod, her expression unreadable. "You'll go... but make sure you return stronger." Nami sighed. "You're lucky we love you, Arto."
Arto felt a lump in his throat as he looked at all of them. They weren't happy about it, but they accepted it. And that meant everything. "I promise," he said, his voice steady this time. "I'll come back." As Rias stepped forward and pulled him into a tight embrace, the others soon followed, wrapping him in their warmth. Even if he had to leave, at least now, he knew—he would never be alone.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto looking up Vigrid with his computer)
Arto takes a step back and summons his teleportation spell and whisks himself away to the destination, Vigrid. But surprisingly, Arto appears back at his position, "Teleportation block, huh? Well, It seems the only way is to teleport to another somewhere close to it and walk in normally" Arto thinks as he opens the map to locate Vigrid and finds a nearby town just outside the forest's borders—Seraphiel. It wasn't a large city, but it would serve as a good entry point. Arto adjusted his coat, rolling his shoulders as he prepared to try again. With a flick of his fingers, his magic pulsed through the air, and in an instant, he vanished.
The world around him blurred, shifting in a swirl of light and energy, until his feet landed on solid ground once more. The scent of damp earth and pine filled his senses as he took in his new surroundings. Seraphiel was quiet at this hour, the streets lit only by the soft glow of enchanted lanterns. The air carried a faint, lingering energy—holy in nature. It made sense. The town was close to Vigrid, where the connection to heaven was strongest.
Arto thinks as he walks the town. Lucky for him, this place is quite peaceful so there is nothing for him to look out for. Arto moves quickly through the town to a place where a horse cart is waiting for him, he comes to the cart to see a man is on the cart, waiting
The man barely looked up before grumbling. "Took ya sweet time, didn't ya? Thought I'd be bones 'fore you showed up."
Arto smiles, stepping toward the cart with a measured pace. "You're early, Enzo."
Enzo let out a dry chuckle, flicking ash from his cigar. "Yeah, yeah. Call it enthusiasm. Or maybe it's the fact that Vigrid ain't exactly a place you wanna be loiterin' near for too long, capisce?"
Arto keeps his smile, placing a hand on the edge of the cart. "And yet, here you are." "Yeah, well, you're payin' me enough to make bad decisions. Now get in, we got a schedule to keep."
With a grunt, Enzo climbed onto the driver's seat, giving the reins a firm tug as Arto settled into the back of the cart. The horse gave a slow, reluctant trot forward, the creaking wheels breaking the silence of the lonely road.
Enzo grumbled, pulling his coat tighter around his shoulders. "Tch. Somethin' doesn't feel right."
Arto, who had remained silent for most of the ride, finally spoke. "We're not on the road to Vigrid anymore."
Enzo yanked on the reins, but the horse refused to stop. Its eyes were wide with unease, its hooves clopping forward as if pulled by an unseen force. The mist thickened, shadows moving in its depths, whispering things that had no voice.
Then, the ground vanished beneath them.
The cart lurched downward, the road collapsing into a hidden decline, sending them barreling down a steep, jagged path. Enzo let out a string of curses, gripping the reins as the cart hurtled into the unknown.
Through the fog, something glimmered below—a vast, eerie body of water, still as glass, reflecting the sky like an unbroken mirror. "Oh, hell no—" Before Enzo could finish, the cart hit the ground, skidding to a stop just inches from the lake's darkened edge.
The mist thinned, revealing the forgotten waters of Lake Desolation.
Enzo, still gripping the cart like his life depended on it, looked around frantically. "Ain't no way—how the hell did we get here?! This ain't on the damn map!" "No," Arto murmured. "Because it's not supposed to be."
"Find somewhere safe to rest Enzo, I'll handle this unfortunate event" Enzo swallowed hard. "Yeah, yeah, sure, buddy. Just make sure 'unfortunate' don't turn into 'dead,' alright?"
Arto turns back to the fog around them and walks in, only to walk out on the other side of the fog "Whatever created this fog is around here, seemingly under this lake.
Arto walks to the lake to feel something buzzing under the lake, some faint traces of magic, ancient even "Something is sealed beneath this lake, and it's causing us trouble, and it seems I'll have to perform a little dive to continue our path to Vigrid
Arto takes off his clothes and dives down the lake in only a trunk, the water was ice-cold, shocking his body as he plunged into the depths. Arto exhaled slowly, adjusting to the temperature as he kicked downward, his sharp eyes scanning the murky waters. Despite the darkness surrounding him, his enhanced vision allowed him to make out the shapes of jagged rocks and shifting currents swirling like unseen hands.
Deeper he went, following the pull of energy radiating from the lakebed. The holy presence that had been thick in the air above was nonexistent down here—replaced by something else. Something ancient. Arto swims down further and further until he sees A massive, ornate coffin resting at the bottom of the lakebed.
Arto's eyes narrowed. "It seems this is our little trouble" He swam forward, descending into the void where water once was. The weight of the coffin pressed against reality itself, resisting his presence. As Arto moves towards the coffin, a force radiating from the coffin pushes Arto back.
But Arto was no ordinary man. He raised his free hand, and from the shadows, his own magic flared—a twisting void of abyssal energy. With a single motion, he crushed the pressure from the coffin. The last sigil shattered, and the coffin lurched forward, freed from its prison.
The storm above roared louder. Something within the coffin sensed its release. Arto pressed his palm against the lid. The air crackled. His heartbeat matched the pulse of something awakening inside. Then— BANG! The coffin exploded open, and a blinding flash of crimson light engulfed the lake. Arto instinctively leaped back as a figure emerged, stepping onto the now-dry lakebed as the fog subsided, revealing the path to Vigrid
She stood tall, raven-haired, draped in a form-fitting black bodysuit adorned with gold filigree. Her crimson gaze flickered with brief confusion, but only for a moment. Then, a smirk curled across her lips. "Well, well... I was expecting a warm welcome after such a long nap," she purred, rolling her shoulders. "But instead, I find myself in the company of a rather bold stranger. How terribly exciting."
Arto slowly stands up from the shore, putting his clothes back on, and comes before the woman before him and bows respectfully like a knight "Good day to you, my lady, my apology for disturbing your sleep, I'm Arto Abysgard, we happened to get lost here while on our way to a town called Vigrid, we got stuck with the fog around this lake. So I must disturb your sleep a little to clear out path forward, my deepest apology"
The woman arched a perfectly sculpted brow, crossing her arms as she regarded Arto with an amused smirk. "Arto Abysgard, hmm?" Her voice dripped with intrigue, her crimson eyes gleaming with mischief. "A man with manners. That's rare these days."
She took a step forward, her movements fluid and graceful, as if the world itself bent to accommodate her presence. Her gaze flickered to the dissipating fog around the lake, then back to Arto. "So, let me see if I understand this correctly... You stumbled upon my little resting place by accident?"
Arto nodded, maintaining his composed posture. "Indeed. My companion and I were en route to Vigrid when the road twisted and led us here. The lake's presence prevented us from advancing, and I could sense something... restrained beneath it. I had little choice but to investigate and eventually disturb your sleep in the coffin to clear the fog, my deepest apology for this inconvenience"
"Oh my, how terribly proper of you." Her smirk deepened, one hand resting on her hip as she eyed Arto with playful curiosity. "It's been quite some time since I've had a gentleman wake me from my slumber. And with such... refined manners, no less."
Suddenly, she steps aside to dodge a dagger thrown from Arto, flies right across her face but doesn't go any further, it stops at something before the dagger falls down the ground, a thud sound is heard. He summons his sword and dashes closer to the woman and thrusts his sword at something behind her, and another slash, then another slash, thudding sound ringing constantly like something was falling as his swords keep slashing.
The woman's grin widened as she turned her head slightly, catching the faint glint of steel in the air. Arto's sword danced behind her, slashing through the unseen assailants with swift, deliberate precision. The rhythmic clang of metal striking metal echoed through the misty air, followed by the dull thuds of bodies—or what remained of them—collapsing to the ground.
But there are more coming to them at the same time, Arto stands in front of the lady he pulled out from the lake and forms a hand-sign, a burst of energy bursting out from him, wiping out any everything on its way and only the sound of shattering remain as he turns back to the woman "Are you alright?" he asks while examining if there were any injuries on her.
His eyes go from her beautiful face down her body-tight suit, the woman smirks lightly before reminding him "You seem to check me a little too thoroughly, darling, found something more remarkable than injuries,hmm~?"
But before Arto could reply, the space around them is buzzing again, Arto draws his sword once more, he looks at the woman "Can you fight?" but she doesn't have a chance to answer as Arto dodges an invisible attack, he turns to Enzo "Enzo, take the cart back to the main road, I'll join you shortly" and charges at the fray again with sword and magic.
"You'd better not be a dead kid, you still owe me the second half of the payment" Enzo scoffs as he pushes the cart back to the main road while Arto and the woman remain behind fighting some invisible force. Despite the coming danger, she didn't flinch. If anything, she looked amused. "My, my," she purred, her crimson eyes gleaming. "A gentleman who doesn't just ask questions but knows how to put on a show. Now that's rare." she tilted her head, finally giving them a proper glance. Angels.
She didn't know how she knew that. But something deep inside her stirred, an old familiarity tingling at the edges of her mind. She had fought these things before. Many times. Her fingers twitched. Muscle memory ached to respond.
Then, one of the angels lunged. Without thinking, she moved. Her body flowed like liquid shadow, her reflexes a whisper faster than the enemy's strike. She sidestepped, and as the angel's massive halberd carved through the air beside her, she kicked off the ground, twisting midair, her long legs slicing in an elegant arc.
A brutal heel drop landed right on the angel's head. A sickening crunch followed as the creature's mask shattered, golden ichor bursting from the cracks before its body disintegrated into ribbons of fading light. The witch landed gracefully, brushing a nonexistent speck of dust from her shoulder. Arto, who had been mid-slash, paused briefly, his blade catching the light as he eyed her. "So... that's a yes, then?"
The woman smirked. "I suppose muscle memory doesn't disappoint." Another angel rushed forward—faster, larger. It raised its greatsword, aiming straight for her. she raised her hand instinctively—and something snapped into place. A spark of magic surged through her veins, and in the blink of an eye, she vanished into a mist of violet petals.
The angel's sword slammed into empty air. Then, the lady reappeared behind it, crouched low, her fingers curling in a claw-like motion.
Witch Time activated.
Everything around her slowed to a crawl, the world shifting into a deep violet hue. Arto's movements became a blur, the angels stuck in place as if they were caught in frozen time. she smirked. Oh... now this is fun.
She twisted into a handstand, her legs wrapping around the angel's head. With a powerful spin, she snapped its neck mid-air, letting its body collapse as time resumed.
Arto exhaled sharply, watching as the angel crumbled away. "You fight... too well for someone who just woke up from a coffin." the woman tapped a finger to her lips, feigning thoughtfulness. "Well, darling, some people stretch after waking up." She smirked. "I prefer a little excitement."
Then, the ground trembled. A new presence made itself known—a hulking seraphic figure, golden and massive, stepping from the mist with burning eyes and a wicked, divine spear in hand. Unlike the others, this one didn't attack immediately. It merely raised its weapon and pointed it straight at the woman.
But she shows no fear as she braces herself, the thing launches at her but she catches its attack and swings that thing away with her monstrous strength, this causes Arto to look at her with wary look, but before he could ask anything, the thing appears again as it dashes at them, Arto and the woman quickly evade and send counter attacks back at it, causing dents to appear on the angel's armor, but it doesn't flinch and calls upon more of its soldier to fight.
"Abyss guy, you have any weapons? Killing them by punches and kicks seems to waste too much time" Arto pulls out from his vault 2 short swords and throws it at the warrior lady "Seriously, what age were you born in? How do you expect me to look fabulous with these?"
Arto let out a sharp breath, already mid-slash as another angel lunged at him. "Fabulous? You're worried about fashion when we're fighting divine warriors?"
The woman twirled the twin short swords between her fingers, weighing them with mild distaste. She then exhaled, rolling her shoulders before flipping them into a reverse grip. "Well, if I must," she mused, taking a step forward as another angel descended from above, golden spear in hand.
The moment its weapon thrust toward her, she moved like a shadow—her body weaving through the attack as if she had done this a thousand times before. Muscle memory. Instinct. Power. Her feet barely touched the ground as she flipped into the air, her legs folding over her body in a gravity-defying arc.
Then, with an elegant flourish, she twisted mid-air and drove both swords downward, impaling the angel through the chest. Golden ichor burst into the air as the creature let out a strangled screech, its body disintegrating into light before its armor clattered uselessly to the ground.
The woman landed gracefully, tossing her hair back as she examined the now-empty space. "Hmm. Not bad. But these things really don't last, do they?" Arto cut down another angel with a burst of magic-infused slashes, his movements fluid but precise. He stole a glance at the raven-haired woman, his eyes narrowing slightly. Her strength. Her speed. The way she fights—this isn't normal. Not for a human.
Before he could question her, the massive seraphic figure let out a deep, guttural growl, its golden spear igniting with celestial flames. It raised its weapon to the sky, and the heavens split apart. A rain of divine javelins descended upon them. Arto gritted his teeth, forming a sigil with his hands. A surge of dark energy erupted from beneath him, creating a barrier that shattered the spears before they could reach him. But even as he defended himself, he saw her.
She didn't move. She didn't need to. Instead, she simply stood still, watching the spears fall. And then—She vanished. A mist of violet petals replaced her form just as the javelins impaled the ground where she had been standing. The next second, she reappeared above the seraph, twisting gracefully mid-air.
Her smirk widened. "Now, now. That was rather rude." And then, she struck. She crossed the short swords before her, forming an X-shaped slash that tore through the seraph's armor. A crack of violet lightning erupted from the impact, sending a shockwave through the battlefield.
The seraph staggered, golden ichor spilling from the wound, but it wasn't finished. It roared, calling upon dozens of smaller angels that swarmed the battlefield, their weapons gleaming as they charged. Arto clicked his tongue. "This is getting tiresome."
The woman landed beside him, stretching her arms lazily as if she had just woken from another nap. "Well, if we're taking requests, I'd like something a little more dramatic." She flicked her fingers, and suddenly—a ripple of dark energy surged beneath her feet.
Arto tensed. He could feel the shift in the air. This power... it wasn't magic. It was something older. Deeper. Then, he heard it. A low, rumbling growl. And from the void beneath her, a monstrous claw emerged, curling over the battlefield like a predator preparing to strike. The woman grinned, lifting one hand toward the towering beast that was beginning to rise. "Let's see how well angels handle a little... demonic intervention."
The demonic beast she summoned wiped the battlefield clean with its claws and teeth, leaving Arto in awe seeing the power of this woman "Damn, she is more than beautiful....." Suddenly the witch appears before his face as the sword impales an angel behind him. "You're distracted, is it because of the pet I unleashed or is it because...." she leans closer to him as his eyes avert somewhere else, she giggles "...you're a terrible liar, Mister Abyssgard" the woman then turns back to deal with the rest of the angels "Focus......Focus......" Arto reminds himself until his eyes rest on her swaying hips and her perfect figure "Damn it......" he quickly draws his sword and joins her in dealing with the angels to clear his mind
When the angels are all dealt with, the woman hands Arto 2 broken sword "Told you they won't last long" she teases, Arto receives the swords from her and throws them away "Well, they weren't designed to last anyway, but you've used them well, how about I make you some weapons of your liking?" He asks out of nowhere. The woman raised an intrigued brow, twirling a lock of raven hair around her finger. "Oh? A man who not only fights but also crafts? Now that's a rare talent," she mused, tapping her chin playfully. "And here I thought chivalry was dead."
"But even so, a free offer is truly too good to be true, even for a man so deeply into me like you~" she teases, making Arto turn his face away, but not denying "State your price, Abyssgard, if it's reasonable, you can proceed this order" Arto smirks and looks at her again "Well, we'll discuss the payment on our way to Vigrid, since I'm in a little rush here. Think of it as a little debt to keep you around as our ally in this journey"
The woman chuckled, placing a hand on her hip. "Oh? A debt, you say?" Her crimson eyes gleamed with amusement as she took a slow step closer, her presence both teasing and imposing. "How very dangerous of you, Mister Abyssgard. Keeping a lady like me around... who knows what kind of trouble you're inviting?"
Arto smirked, sliding his sword back into its sheath. "I'd say trouble already found me the moment I opened that coffin." He turned, gesturing toward the road where Enzo had disappeared with the cart. "But I've never been one to run from it."
The witch tilted her head, watching him with a curious gaze. For a man of shadows and abyssal magic, he certainly had a way with words. It was... interesting. "Very well," she said, falling into step beside him. "Let's see where this little adventure of yours leads, Abyssgard, I also feel a weird draw toward your destination after all~"
The 2 move to the cart where Enzo was waiting for them, Enzo, gripping the side of the cart like it was his last lifeline, stared wide-eyed at the approaching pair. His cigar dangled precariously from his lips, forgotten. "Oh, you gotta be kiddin' me," he muttered under his breath. "First, the lake disappears, now you're bringin' some tall, scary broad with ya? What the hell kinda mess did ya drag me into this time, Abyssgard?!"
The witch arched a brow, her crimson gaze flickering with amusement. "Scary broad?" she echoed, her tone smooth as silk but with an unmistakable edge. She leaned forward slightly, inspecting Enzo like one might a particularly amusing insect. "How charming. Is this how all men in this era greet a lady?"
Enzo stiffened immediately, hands shooting up in defense. "H-Hey now, no offense, lady! Just... y'know, it ain't every day you see a coffin explode, a lake vanish, and some fella pull a woman straight outta a fairytale nightmare, ya feel me?!"
The witch chuckled, rolling her shoulders as she effortlessly climbed onto the cart's passenger seat. "Oh, darling, you have no idea what kind of tale you've just walked into." Arto stepped up next to Enzo, adjusting his coat before gracefully hopping into the back of the cart. "Enough stalling, Enzo. The path to Vigrid is open now. Let's move."
"That's the problem, kid, the horses are nowhere to be found" Enzo gestures at the head of the cart where is empty, Arto sighs as he cast a spell under his feet, from the spell, 2 horses appear
A hush fell over the group as Arto finished weaving his spell. Shadows coalesced beneath his feet, twisting and stretching into two equine silhouettes. At first, they were little more than inky apparitions, swirling like dark smoke. Then, with a burst of arcane energy, they solidified.
Two nightmare-like horses emerged—sleek, obsidian bodies rippling with violet undertones, manes and tails aflame with eerie, blue-black wisps. Their eyes gleamed with an otherworldly light, and each breath they exhaled left a faint, shimmering trail in the air.
Enzo let out a strangled yelp, stumbling back against the cart. "Holy—! Kid, are these things even safe to ride?!" Arto chuckles as he pets the horses "Best ones I could find, they can take us to Vigrid smoothly, so hop on, Enzo, take us to Vigrid" Arto turns to the woman "After you, my lady~" he gestures to the passenger seat on the cart.
The witch smirked at Arto's gesture, amusement dancing in her crimson eyes. "Well, aren't you a gentleman?" She stepped up onto the cart's passenger seat with an effortless grace, settling herself as if she were sitting upon a throne rather than a creaky wooden bench.
Meanwhile, Enzo was still eyeing the nightmare horses like they might suddenly decide to devour him. He wiped a hand down his face, muttering, "This is a bad idea. This is a real bad idea." But with a defeated groan, he climbed onto the driver's seat, gripping the reins like they might explode in his hands. Arto gets on the cart with the woman as the horses hiss and start moving forward
When riding on the cart, Arto sits opposite to the woman he retrieved from the lake, he studies her from head to toes as he found something interesting at her heels, there are some mechanic inside her heels, as he was thinking "You don't need to look so intently, darling, I know I'm charming and all" Suddenly, Arto kneels on one knee before her to the witch's surprise
"Now, now, Mister Abyssgard, I admit you're one interesting man, but proposing is another matter, at least get to know me first~Or a ring would make it more convincing" she teases, Arto chuckled softly, still kneeling before the raven-haired woman, his deep blue eyes glinting with intrigue. "I assure you, my lady, my intentions are purely academic."
Bayonetta tilted her head slightly, a smirk playing at her lips. "Academic, is it?" She uncrossed one of her long legs, resting her heel lightly on his knee. "My, my... What could possibly be so fascinating down there?"
Arto carefully caresses her heels carefully in his hands as he examines the mechanic behind it, it's more than a shoe, it's a weapon "Very interesting I must say, lady Witch. Now that I know how things work, let's get right into business, let's make you some weapons. Tell me, my dear, how do you like your weapons to be?" She tapped a finger against her lips, feigning deep thought. "Hmm... I do have a certain appreciation for firearms."
Arto nodded, crossing one leg over the other. "I gathered as much from your heels. Guns embedded in your shoes? Quite the statement. But let's not stop there." He gestured to the space between them, where a faint shimmer of abyssal energy coiled around his fingertips. "I can forge something unique—something that sings with your magic, something... fitting for a Queen of the Umbran arts."
The woman's smile widened. "Oh? Now you've truly caught my attention." She leaned forward slightly, her voice a sultry purr. "Tell me, darling, what exactly do you have in mind?" Arto smirked. "That depends, my dear. Are you the type to wield raw, destructive power? Or do you prefer something... elegant? Something that dances with you in battle, rather than merely striking down your enemies?"
The lady chuckled, tapping her heel against the wooden floor of the cart. "Why not both?" Arto exhaled in amusement, shaking his head. "A woman of taste. Very well. I'll need materials, enchantments, and time. But when I'm done..." He tilted his head, eyes gleaming with mischief. "You'll have something worthy of a legend."
With that said, Arto calls to Enzo "Can you help us slow down a little? I'm having a rush order for our lady over here" Enzo groaned, gripping the reins tighter. "Oh, for cryin' out loud! Now you wanna slow down? First, ya make me drive a damn haunted cart, then ya summon demon horses, and now you wanna turn this ride into a damn workshop?!"
Despite the complaints, the cart slows down as Arto summons his equipment and starts working. He first takes out a piece of clay and turns to the woman before him "Grip this thing for me please, make sure your hand is comfortable with the grip" The witch smirks as she takes the clay piece in her hand and squeezes them slowly until it reaches her comfort point, she releases the clay and gives it back to Arto "This should be enough for the handle"
On the small crafting table before him, Arto starts working on the weapon for the woman as she looks at him work with an amused gaze, but seeing him this focus, she refrains from her usual teasing nature and lets the man cook. After 10 minutes, Arto presents to the witch her order, she practically shots up from the seat and looks at the masterpieces before her eyes
"I present to you, my lady, the Scarborough Fair, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme, ready for service" She stepped forward, reaching out to trace a gloved finger along the sleek, metallic finish of one of the guns. "Oh my...~" she purred, eyes practically devouring the weapons. "They're gorgeous."
Arto crossed his arms, smirking slightly at her reaction. "Fashionable enough for you?" "Oh, darling," she cooed, inspecting the rest of the set with admiration, "you've truly outdone yourself." She took a moment to holster each gun into their rightful place—two at her hips, two securing themselves to the custom slots on her heels. The mechanism locked into place seamlessly, as if they had always belonged there.
She leans over to him, pressing a single gun lightly against his chest. "Now, Mister Abyssgard... this was quite the gift. But gifts this grand usually come with a price." Her crimson eyes flickered with curiosity. "So tell me, dear... what is it that you want?" Arto meets her gaze, smirking "There are many things I want to know, miss Witch, but firstly, I want to know your name"
She paused for a moment, her smirk never fading but her eyes gleaming with a flicker of intrigue. Then, with a slow, dramatic twirl of her pistol, she pulled back, placing a delicate hand on her hip. "Oh my, such a gentleman," she purred. "You go through all this trouble, craft me such exquisite weapons, and only now do you ask for my name? How positively charming~" Arto tilts his head slightly "Well, gotta have something to call you, I'm tired to calling you Witch, a name not fitting for a gorgeous woman like you" he says bluntly
She chuckled, a sultry, melodious sound that echoed softly through the lounge. "Flattery will get you everywhere, Mister Abyssgard~" she teased, tapping a gloved finger to her lips as if considering his request. Then, with a playful twirl, she finally answered, "Bayonetta."
Arto's eyes narrowed slightly as he let the name settle in his mind. "Bayonetta..." He repeated, testing the way it rolled off his tongue. He smirked. "Fitting."
She raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And what, pray tell, makes it so fitting?" He crossed his arms, leaning against his seat. "It's elegant, yet dangerous. Refined, but carries a bite. Much like the woman who wields it."
Bayonetta grinned, stepping forward until she was dangerously close. "My, my, such a charmer, aren't you?" Her voice dipped into a sultry whisper, her breath warm against his skin. "You best be careful, dear... a woman like me might just find that adorable~"
Arto didn't back away. He merely smirked. "Then I'll take my chances." Bayonetta laughed softly, pulling back with an amused hum. "Well then, Abyssgard, now that introductions are properly made..." She gestured toward the weapons with an approving nod. "Let us head to Vigrid to see how these new babies of mine go."
"You sure there will be fights there?" Arto asks "There sure will be, darling....." Bayonetta was about to continue but a voice rang out in her mind "So you've arrived, my dear, the time has come to awaken....the Eyes of the World....Fear not, my dear child. Such a beautiful young lady you've become, I'll always see to it no harm comes to you" Bayonetta turns her head "What happened? You saw something?" Arto asks Bayonetta who is utterly confused by what was happening "Nothing, Arto, just some perking old memories"
"I see, something is indeed hard to forget" Arto looks to the outside of the cart to see they have arrived in Vigrid "Here we are, folks, Vigrid. This is the furthest I can take you 2, so you're on your own from here, got that?" he grumbles, Arto comes to him and gives him a thick envelope "That's for your great service and also some to apologize for the lake incident"
Enzo blinked as he took the envelope, giving it a slight heft in his hand before opening it just enough to peek inside. His eyes widened. "Well, well... You do know how to treat a guy right, Abyssgard." He let out a gruff chuckle, tucking the envelope into his coat. "Guess I'll forgive ya for the whole 'nearly drownin' me in a haunted lake' thing."
Arto smirked. "Much appreciated, Enzo." Bayonetta stepped down from the cart, stretching her arms above her head in a slow, feline motion. "Vigrid, at last," she murmured, scanning their surroundings. "So....this is supposed to be paradise?" she wonders, Arto comes to her after seeing Enzo turning back "Well, for a place close to Heaven, this is indeed a little ragged to be honest, but the air here is unmistakably holy" Arto analyzes as they walk into the city. But their path was blocked by a bunch of angels.
"They never know when to mind their own business" Bayonetta sighs as she pulls out Parsley and Sage from their holsters. "Don't mind me," he mused, summoning his sword. "I'm just here to observe the beauty of Scarborough Fair's maiden performance." Bayonetta twirled her guns effortlessly, her stance shifting into something almost dance-like. "Oh, darling," she purred, "by the time I'm finished, you'll be begging for an encore." Then, with a flick of her wrist—BANG! The first angel gets a bullet in its head as it falls down, others soon follow the example as one bullet is enough to put them out forever
"Does my creation entertain you, my lady?" Arto asks gently with the demeanor of a knight, but before she could reply, a monster from heaven appeared making Arto and Bayonetta direct their attention to the thing, its towering figure with a halberd make Bayonetta's excitement rises "Well, let's see how far these babies can go against this big target, don't worry, darling, a review will soon arrive" she launches forward to fight the monster with each bullet pierces a hole through the giant. Bayonetta then performs a dance with some of her clothes disappear and turn into a circle, summoning a dragon like monster that devour the angel
"You looked a little too intently, darling, were you interested in the guns, the monsters, or.....me~?" Arto chuckled, sheathing his sword with a satisfied smirk. "Oh, my dear witch," he mused, stepping closer as the last remnants of the angel dissolved into golden mist. "I was simply appreciating a masterpiece at work." His gaze flicked toward Scarborough Fair, still smoking from their latest performance, then back to Bayonetta, amusement glinting in his deep blue eyes. "Though I must admit... it's hard to say which one is more captivating" his eyes linger on her, giving Bayonetta a glimpse of the answer.
As they were moving forward, Bayonetta and Arto tore through more angels until they meet a woman with white hair, red attire and was riding a motorcycle, she tores through angels effortlessly around Arto and Bayonetta, the Abyssgard instinctively put his hand over Bayonetta's watch as she runs across them. When she is done, she looks down at the 2 from her motor which is now on the wall like an anti-gravity spell "Out to find some answers about your past, are we?" the woman asks, resting her chin on her palm.
Bayonetta flicks her hair behind her ear and asks "You've quite a familiar face, and using the same power. But you have to forgive me, do we know each other?" The woman lets out a chuckle "Same powers? Don't make me laugh....your time in that lake has made you a little rusty, even that friend of your was more aware than you" she gestures to Arto who is standing idly "Gotta wave off some thieving attempt for my lady, a knight can at least do as much"
The woman pays Arto no mind and looks back to Bayonetta "One interesting companion you have there, but with your dumbfounded face, I see that you've forgotten your destiny" Bayonetta keeps her confidence intact and her demeanor relaxed as she replies "You're right, I do seem to be have trouble remembering things of late. Would you be so kind as to take it from the top?" she asks with a sultry voice.
"Two overseers.....The Eyes of the World. They are the power behind everything" Bayonetta stands in silence for a moment while Arto looks at her "It seems some buttons were clicked correctly, as much as I like to put that smuggling face of yours down, I must pay my thank for helping my dear companion remembering something" The woman smirked, crossing her arms as she regarded Bayonetta with a knowing glint in her eyes. "Oh, my dear, there's no need to thank me. I'm merely setting you back on the path you were always meant to walk. But I've gotta go, take good care of her, Abyssgard, she is very precious"
With that said, the woman turns her motorcycle to leave as soon as Bayonetta snaps out of her blackout, and the first word she said is "Jeanne...." with some kind of new magic radiating from her body "It seems it's not just your memory, your power is coming back with the little reminder" Arto says as he looks at her while standing on the wall "We'd better move, we have a lot to cover about your past" Bayonetta uses the same spell Jeanne used and step on the wall as she moves to the other side of the broken bridge caused by the angel the fought
"Tell me, Arto, why do you care so much about helping me out? You were charmed that much, hmm~?" she asks teasingly, Arto answers "My only job is to be here, that's all, what I do here is unimportant as long as I'm here, and I see no harm in going on an adventure rather than sleeping in a hotel room somewhere, boring, you know. So here I am, escorting a beautiful lady on her journey to find her lost past like a knight, a fitting role, especially when my mistress is this gorgeous"
Bayonetta let out a rich, velvety laugh, her amusement echoing through the empty streets of Vigrid. "Oh, my... such a silver tongue, my dear knight. But tell me—do all your mistresses get such devotion, or am I just special?" She walked alongside him on the vertical surface, the magic under her feet shimmering with a newfound intensity.
Arto smirked, adjusting his coat as he moved with effortless grace beside her. "Well, my lady, you do have a way of making an impression. And besides, fate has a funny way of pulling the right people together at the right time." His deep blue eyes flicked to hers, gleaming with intrigue. "Call it duty, call it curiosity, or maybe..." He flashed a teasing grin. "Maybe I just like the view."
Bayonetta hummed, pretending to ponder his words as she stretched her arms above her head in an exaggerated display. "Mm, I suppose I can't fault a man for having good taste." She flicked a loose strand of raven hair behind her ear before her expression became just a touch more serious. "But you are an enigma, darling. You wield magic similar to mine, yet you don't seem like one of them... And your name—Abyssgard, was it? That's no ordinary title."
Arto chuckled under his breath. "You're as sharp as you are stunning." He glanced ahead as they reached the other side of the broken bridge, stepping onto solid ground with ease. "But let's just say that you're not the only one with a past worth uncovering."
Bayonetta arched a brow, clearly intrigued as they walk together into the town of Vigrid, where they meet even more angels and have to fight to wave them off, here Arto and Bayonetta found their sync in battle movements, like a fluid dance of 2 performers with sword, bullets and magic flying left and right, unliving angels. They weaved between each other's attacks flawlessly, as if they had fought together for years rather than mere hours. When Bayonetta cartwheeled over a cluster of angels, Arto was already there, deflecting a halberd strike meant for her back. In turn, she flipped over him, placing a well-aimed shot between the eyes of an angel lunging for his side.
At one point, she leaped onto Arto's shoulders, using him as a springboard to launch herself high into the air. "Hope you don't mind, darling~" she purred mid-air before unleashing a rain of bullets below. Arto merely smirked, catching the nearest angel's weapon and tossing it into another before slicing through both with a single shadow-infused slash. "You're quite the acrobat, my lady," he remarked, stepping through the battlefield as if it were a stage. "Though I'd say we're both stealing the spotlight tonight."
Bayonetta landed gracefully beside him, reloading her guns with a sultry smirk. "Oh, my dear knight, I do hope you're not getting stage fright." Arto twirled his sword, dismissing the last of the angels in a swirl of dark mist. "Hardly," he mused, his deep blue eyes glinting. "In fact, I think I'm just getting warmed up." Bayonetta chuckled, holstering her weapons as the remnants of their foes faded into golden dust. "Mm, I like a man with stamina. We're going to get along just fine."
At that moment, 2 gigantic monsters appear in the scene, causing the bantering to stop as Arto and Bayonetta look at the angelic soldiers "One each?" Arto asks with a smirk "Let's see how you fare without me, darling~?" She purrs as the halberd tries to hit her but she evades and sends back a barrage of bullets, Arto doesn't fall behind as he launches forward like a wolf and slices off an arm of the monster with his sword.
After a while the 2 monsters are dealt with as Arto and Bayonetta come to rest at a church near by "That's interesting to say the least" Arto exhales as he walks into the church "For a human, you're admiringly durable" Arto chuckled, brushing some dust off his coat as he stepped into the dimly lit church. "And for a witch, you're admirably dramatic." He glanced sideways at Bayonetta, who sauntered in behind him, not a single hair out of place despite the battle they had just endured. She smirked at his comment, tilting her head ever so slightly.
"Oh, darling, everything I do is with flair," she purred, stretching her arms as she walked further inside. The faint glow of stained glass bathed her in shifting colors, adding to her already mesmerizing presence. As they were walking in Arto turned back to secure the entrance to make sure they could rest here, Bayonetta heard a clicking sound like someone is running in this church. Bayonetta raises her voice "Who's there?" She follows the footsteps to catch a little girl running around the church
"You've played enough hide and seek, my scurrying little friend" Her heels are directly at the child's face, when she looked down, she was surprised "Just a child?" Bayonetta comes to look closer at the child "What are you doing running around Vigrid, hmm~? You're certainly not dressed in your Sunday best" When the child looks at her, Bayonetta suddenly goes into a blackout.
"Bayonetta, lady Bayonetta!" Arto calls to her, snapping her out of her state "You remembered something else?" he asks, Bayonetta looks around to not see the child anywhere. As she was trying to process the situation, Arto pushes her out of the way where a holy summoning spell is called, from it dragon-like head comes out and was about to eat them both alive "Great, I sealed the door and now that thing decided to barged right through the wall" Arto complains as he pulls his sword out and ready to fight
"Ready?" he asks, Bayonetta seems to not fully out of her blackout prepares her guns to fight "Right after you, my knight" Arto nods and launches forward and slashes the thing. While Arto was minding the first head, the second one came in from the left wall and attacked the 2, Bayonetta quickly covered Arto as they fought off the 2 heads together.
After landing from the remnant of the church the dragon thing pulled into the sky, Arto and Bayonetta look up to see that thing is already gone and the town they are in is being destroyed by lava, Arto and Bayonetta quickly move out of the place. When Bayonetta is using her witch time, she sees that Arto can still keep up with her, she lets out an amused smirk "Wow, you're.......quick" Arto turns to her "Why thank you, my lady, I was trying to keep up, while you slowed the time around you down, I quickened myself up"
Bayonetta let out a chuckle, flipping through the air effortlessly as they both leaped across the crumbling landscape. "My, my, Arto, you really are full of surprises~" Arto smirked as he landed beside her, his blade still humming with energy. "I'd hate to be left behind. And besides, I wouldn't make a very good knight if I let my lady run off ahead without me, would I?" Bayonetta spun her guns, firing off a few precise shots at the last remnants of angels scrambling through the burning streets. "You won't, don't worry, dear, I'll make sure to move calculatedly so that you can keep up" she walks ahead with her usual confidence and grace
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto and Bayonetta striking poses together)
The path leads Arto and Bayonetta to Coliseum, a place is like an arena in ruin, getting inside, they see the dragon monster they fought earlier talking to someone "Our fate is tied with the demon world and we share your earnest in this matter" The thing said in grumbling voice of an ancient language "However, if she doesn't reach us alive, this conversation was all for naught"
Bayonetta decides to shoot first, asking later with a bullet flying straight to the thing, getting its attention as it turns to them "Seriously!?" Arto asks while looking at the monster "What do you want me to do? Call it nicely? It will try to kill it anyway and a gun sound is a way better calling than yelling" she strides towards the angelic dragon thing "You again? And here I thought I 've seen the last of you"
The thing turns to Bayonetta "It is the most kind of you to alleviate my need to search you out, Bayonetta. Please forgive me for my prior trespass and lack of hospitality" The thing spreads its wings and about to attack "Fortitudo, an Auditio, great, a high-ranking angel" Arto grunts as his magic crackles around him. Bayonetta smirked, rolling her shoulders as she twirled her guns. "Oh, darling, no need for apologies. I love a good rematch. Well, my dear Abyssgard, one each?"
Arto looks at her, sighing "One each" before launching at one head of Fortitudo while Bayonetta deals with the other one, and like Arto and Bayonetta, the 2 heads work in sync to wave off Arto and Bayonetta, destructive breathes of the 2-headed dragon causing the entire arena to drown in a sea of flame, but Arto and Bayonetta still hold themselves well as they keep digging through the thick layers of armor of the dragon and evade its devastating bites and thrusts, until Arto finally cuts off the left head of Fortitudo while Bayonetta holds the right head's mouth and slams it back and forth in the arena. Then with a twist, the dragon's head was snapped out of its neck.
Arto looks at the strength Bayonetta just displayed as he gulfs, but Bayonetta turns to him "No worry, darling, I'm not doing that to you, you're lucky enough to be only good side after all" she dusts off her gloved hand but the battle was far from done as Fortitudo takes to the sky and roar, causing the whole arena to shake and float to the sky. Arto steadied himself as the entire coliseum trembled beneath his feet, chunks of stone breaking away and rising into the sky along with Fortitudo's remaining body. "Oh, fantastic," he muttered. "Now we're fighting midair."
Bayonetta, unfazed as ever, twirled a strand of her hair. "Oh, darling, you're acting like this is your first airborne battle. Keep up, will you?" She smirked before leaping gracefully onto a floating chunk of debris, her heels clicking against the surface. Arto let out a sigh, but his smirk returned. "I suppose I should start expecting this sort of thing with you around." He dashed forward, using his magic to propel himself from one floating platform to another, keeping pace with Bayonetta as they closed in on Fortitudo. Its face soon turns into a mush with the combined attacks of Arto and Bayonetta.
"Now for the grand finale" Bayonetta performs a dance, calling upon her demonic beast, Malphas, to put an end to Fortitudo. The raven-black giant bird catches Fortitudo in its claws as it starts attacking with its sharp beak, creating a hole on the face of the angelic monster. Arto doesn't sit still as he kicks the debris of the arena towards the monster, creating a barrage of giant bullet, destroying what's left of Fortitudo, its scream echo through the air as Arto and Bayonetta land on a falling part of the Coliseum "You know, you don't took too ugly when you're screaming" Bayonetta teases as she enjoys the lollipop she pulled out from somewhere
"It was as foretold......your power, incredible..." Bayonetta raises an eyebrow "Foretold!? Explain yourself" she demands "I, Fortitudo, am but a simple sacrifice for the resurrection of the Creator. May the Creator grace you on your journey" hands from Hell emerge from the darkness, pulling Fortitudo away, ending the life of the angelic dragon thing "Well, that thing is dead, we'd better move before these thing hit the ground" Arto suggests, Bayonetta nods as they both jump down from the falling debris of the arena.
On the way down, Bayonetta once again hears the voice in her head "Fear not, my sweet child. for I'm watching over you. Continue your path" Arto and Bayonetta lands on a place that looks like a valley, Arto stands up and looks around "What a sight to see, the Sunrise and Crescent Valleys, old training ground of Lumen Sages and Umbra Witches"
Chapter 31: The witch (part 2)
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Bayonetta tilts her head "You know this place?" Arto nods "Read from some old tomes, but a beautiful sight indeed, too bad it was destroyed by war and conflicts" before Arto could go on, his phone vibrates, Arto pulls his phone out to see his girlfriend Rias was calling after more than 20 missed calls, cold sweats runs down Arto's face as he shakily picks up the phone and answers "Hello, my beloved Gremory princess...." "WHERE WERE YOU, ARTO!? WHY DIDN'T YOU ANSWER MY CALLS!?" her yell could be heard by Bayonetta who was standing close to him. Bayonetta arched her brow, amused by the sheer panic flashing across Arto's face. She leaned in slightly, resting a hand on her hip as she listened in on the call.
"Ahaha.....My beloved Rias, you see....I was a little busy when I arrived in Vigrid, some matters arose with the angels, I am fully aware of that....Yes, yes....Thank you and the clan so much for covering my back, I know I have a lot to answer after slaying so many angels.......Yes, yes, it was all for self-defense, not any ill intention to spark any war, I promised you, my love...."
Bayonetta couldn't help but chuckle as she watched Arto struggle to calm his furious girlfriend. The composed, confident knight who had just fought alongside her against divine monstrosities was now reduced to a nervous wreck, stumbling over his words. "Oh, darling," Bayonetta purred, placing a gloved hand against his shoulder as he continued his frantic attempt to appease Rias. "You look like a man on the verge of execution. Do tell, is she usually that terrifying?"
Arto shakes his head while trying to ease Rias through his phone. "I know, I know, Rias, I'll take full responsibility for what I did, I promise you...Wait, really?" Rias' voice calms down a little "You're lucky these angels are a separate faction of angels, rouge angels you can call them, but not fallen because they just chose a different path than the majority of heaven other than falling to forbidden sins, so you're not in much trouble, the Gremory clan can cover you. Heaven also didn't take serious actions in this so the you're not in trouble"
Arto let out a sigh of relief, shoulders finally easing up. "Oh, thank the gods—" "What about your healing process? Your original purpose when coming to Vigrid was to heal yourself, right? How is it coming along now" her voice dropped from the furious lover to a more caring tone "My healing? Yes, I'm healing really well by interacting with many angelic creatures, the demonic energy in my body has decreased a lot and my immune system is recovering...."
"I see, but never leave me in the dark again, alright? You're lucky Robin isn't home and I'm not capable of heading there due to the holy influences in that city, or else we would be there to drag you home to answer to us" Arto's lost color face has regain some life "Yes, yes, I'm so sorry for not informing you about my condition....I promise I'll call you every day, a true promise this time...yes, yes, I miss you and the girls too....Yes, yes, I'll come straight home when this is over—"
Bayonetta leaned in slightly, whispering in a sultry tone, "Oh, but darling, I thought we were just getting started~" Arto visibly flinched, his grip on the phone tightening. "Ignore her. That was just... background noise. Nothing important. Yes, my love, I—" "WHO was that!?" Rias snapped, her voice sharp with suspicion. "A companion, my love, a person I found on my way to Vigrid, she has been with me since and was seemingly the reason why the angels kept attacking us" Arto admits
Bayonetta chuckled, her lips curling into a mischievous grin as she traced a gloved finger along Arto's shoulder. "Oh, seemingly the reason? Darling, you wound me. I'd say I definitely attract attention~."
Rias went silent for a moment, her breathing audible through the phone. Then— "So let me get this straight... not only did you ignore my calls, not only did you go off and fight a small war against rogue angels, but you also picked up a mysterious, sultry-voiced woman along the way, who just so happens to attract even more danger?"
Arto gulped. "Sadly, that's the truth, my love, and since I was in this as well, there is no turning back now that I've gone this far. I promise you I'll return when everything is done and my healing process is completed"
"Arto, I have no problem with you hanging around with women, your charm is usually too hard to ignore, I know that, Akeno knows that, Robin, Albedo, Grayfia, Nami, Sona all know that, and we have no problem with adding another woman in the harem as long as she is genuine with you, we don't mind having another sister."
Arto sighed, relieved that Rias wasn't completely furious. "I... appreciate the trust, my love. Truly." Bayonetta, meanwhile, raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Oh my, another sister?" she purred, tapping her chin. "Now that is quite the arrangement you have, darling. A whole harem of beautiful ladies at your beck and call?" Arto cleared his throat awkwardly. It's, uh, more like... mutual affection and deep bonds, not just—" "Mm-hmm~," Bayonetta mused, clearly entertained. "And tell me, handsome, does that mean I'm being recruited?"
"I don't know what you're talking about" Arto turns his head away "Oh~Come now, darling, don't let me start on how you knelt on one knee before me on that horse cart on our way here, how you carefully held my heels, measures my hands and crafted me these beautiful babies" the Scarborough Fair dangling on her hands "And let's not forget how your eyes lingered on my legs and hips from behind when we walked together, don't think I didn't notice, you wanted me, don't you, dear~?"
"I was just making sure the guns on your heels work well, can't have you coming to me complaining about the quality of my creation, right?" Arto tries to justify his actions "But I don't remember putting any guns on my hips, so what exactly were you checking there, Mister Abyssgard~?" Arto takes a step back before Bayonetta's advances, not knowing what to say to get him out of this
"I see" Rias' voice rang out from the phone "From what I heard, this case is new, instead of being charmed by you like us, you were the one being charmed~Now I really want to know this woman you're talking to.....Miss Sultry Voice, can I know your name so that we can talk further on how to make this Abyssgard squirm? We do need your knowledge to prevent this wolf from getting under our skin"
Bayonetta chuckled, utterly delighted by how flustered Arto had become. She leaned in close to his phone, her sultry voice practically purring through the speaker. "Bayonetta, my dear. A pleasure to finally speak with you."
Rias hummed in response, as if analyzing her through just her voice alone. "Bayonetta, hmm? You certainly have a way with words." "Oh, I have a way with many things, darling," Bayonetta mused, twirling a strand of her dark hair. "And I must say, your beloved Arto is quite adorable when he's all shy and flustered~."
Arto, at his limit, groaned, rubbing his temples. "For the love of—can one of you not mess with me for five minutes!?" Rias giggled. "Oh no, this is way too fun. I think I like her already." Bayonetta smirked. "How charming. Do tell, dear Rias, how does one go about joining your little harem? Is there an initiation ritual?"
Arto choked. "WHY ARE WE EVEN TALKING ABOUT THIS!?" Rias, seemingly amused, hummed again. "Well, for starters, you'd have to prove you're not just toying with him." Bayonetta let out a teasing gasp. "Oh, darling, are you suggesting that I am not sincere? You wound me!" She placed a hand on her chest dramatically. "But very well, I do enjoy a challenge."
"I see, then the harem council will watch you go" Rias hums before her voice directs back to Arto "As for you, darling, you being with Bayonetta isn't the problem, the real problem that I was concerned about is your health and well-being, and you leaving us in the dark about everything till this point." Her voice etched with concerned
"You're lucky Robin, Nami and Albedo have headed to other worlds to test out INA's world filtering function, Sona is busy with her clan's business, Akeno with her training with Baraqiel and Grayfia with managing our mansion what the work Robin left behind, I was the only who can make a call to you, and you ignored it 20 times. So I'll tell you one more time, stay safe and inform me about your condition every night, no excuses" Rias firms her voice.
Arto sighed in defeat, rubbing the back of his head. "Yes, my love... I promise I'll call you every night. No excuses."
"Good," Rias said, her tone still stern but with an underlying warmth. "And don't think I won't send someone to drag you back if I sense anything off, Arto. You may be healing, but you're not invincible." Arto chuckled dryly. "Noted... I'll be careful."
Bayonetta, ever amused, leaned in again. "Oh my, it seems you have quite the loving and thorough mistress watching over you, darling. How utterly precious~." Rias hummed in agreement. "Of course. He is my precious knight, after all. And if you intend to keep teasing him, Bayonetta, at least make sure he stays alive while you do."
Bayonetta smirked, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, don't worry, dear. I intend to keep him in one piece. For now." Arto groaned, running a hand down his face. "I swear, I'm never catching a break."
"Of course not, my love," Rias said sweetly. "Now go, finish what you need to do, and call me tonight. Understood?" "Understood," Arto muttered. "Good. Love you~."
"...Love you too." The call ended, leaving Arto standing there, looking utterly drained. Bayonetta grinned, twirling her lollipop between her fingers. "Well, darling, that was delightful. I love her already." Arto sighs "Of course you do, let just hope your first meeting won't turn into a disaster"
"For you, it might, now, let's move forward, my knight, we have a lot to do here" Bayonetta strides forward, leaving Arto behind wondering what he has gotten himself into. The journey through the ruins of the old training ground is filled with angels as they attack Arto and Bayonetta relentlessly, but in the end, they wipe them all out until they meet a giant angel blocking their way
"As much as I like to kill it, this place is crumbling, let's move, my knight" Bayonetta exclaims as she moves quickly through flying debris of the ruin to avoid the angel's attacks until they reach an arena, here they see Jeanne talking the the hologram of the thing they just met, the thing asks "What is the meaning of this? This is not once, but twice. Explain this meddling in our affairs!"
The thing says in an angry tone. But Jeanne didn't falter, she spat back "The only ones meddling are your hapless minions" she held her gun against the giant hologram "This will be taken care of in the manner I see fit. Your assistance isn't required" Then the call ended as Jeanne turns back to Bayonetta and Arto
"I suppose coming here has given you a second wind. Feeling better, Bayonetta" Bayonetta adjusts her glasses "Who are you?" she asks "And don't you dare say my long lost sister."
"Sisters!? You've quite an active imagination. You and I once fought for the jewel upon the crown of the Umbra throne. And now that you've returned, my sleeping beauty" she points her gun at Bayonetta "It's time to finish that fight"
Bayonetta stands idly as if she has remembered something "You've yet again piqued her memory again, what are you trying to do, Jeanne?" Arto asks "It's not your business, Abyssgard, stay out of this, this is between me and her" She shot, Arto quickly draws his sword to block the bullet for Bayonetta "No time to daydreaming" Jeanne exclaims as her gun never leaves Bayonetta.
The raven-haired witch opens her eyes "She is right, Arto, stay out of this, let me take this dance with her" Bayonetta smirks as Arto nods, sheaths his sword and steps back and lets the ladies finish their fight. Bullets start flying all over the arena as the 2 Umbra witches fight, the guns are used to their fullest capacity, but none of them could hit its target, their continues equally with none of them could beat the other.
After a long while, Jeanne was pushed back by Bayonetta "What's the matter, sweetie? Afraid of something, are you?" Jeanne mocks, Bayonetta remains her arrogant self "Afraid? Me?" Jeanne stands up and says "It's a waste of my time. You're still not ready" she then turns into a jaguar, hopping on the flying debris of the ruins, then a bunch of butterfield then a bird as she flies away.
"Wow, that's cool" Bayonetta turns her head to see a big gray wolf standing next to her "You sound weirdly like my knight, did you eat him, you big, bad wolf~?" she asks teasingly, the wolf shakes its head "Nope, it's me, Arto, c'mon, you're telling me you can't turn into animals so stylishly like she did?"
"Of course I can, but why are you in that wolf form anyway?" she asks "Well, to laugh at you when you can't do the same as I did." Bayonetta scoffed, placing a hand on her hip as she watched the large gray wolf beside her with an amused smirk. "Oh, darling, that's adorable. You think I can't do what you just did?" She leaned in slightly, eyes glinting with mischief. "Shall I remind you who you're talking to?"
Arto, in his wolf form, wagged his tail playfully. "I don't know, Bayonetta. I didn't see you chasing after Jeanne in style like you should. Maybe you're just getting old."
Bayonetta gasped dramatically, placing a hand over her chest. "Old? Oh, my dear knight, now that was uncalled for." With a smirk, she took a step forward, and in a flash of violet energy, her form shifted. Where once stood the elegant witch, now a sleek black panther crouched low, its golden eyes flashing with playful challenge.
"There we go, now that's what I want to see" Arto leaps forward to escape the crumbling arena, Bayonetta quickly follows along the wolf as they move together.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by wolf Arto and panther Bayonetta running together)
The 2 land at Proving Ground Ruin after escaping the crumbling ruins "Well, that was fun" Arto exclaims as he stretches his wolf form and turns back into human. Bayonetta smirked as she dusted herself off, her long legs crossing elegantly as she adjusted her gloves. "Oh yes, darling, nothing like nearly plummeting to our deaths to spice up the day."
Arto rolled his shoulders, still getting used to the lingering sensation of his wolf form. "You get used to it." He glanced around at their new surroundings—the Proving Ground Ruin. The area was vast, scattered with broken pillars and ancient stone platforms, all remnants of some long-forgotten battleground. The wind howled through the cracks, carrying an eerie stillness with it.
Bayonetta glanced at him. "So, my knight, any bright ideas on where to go next, or are we just going to stand around waiting for more angels to drop in?" And like an answer to her wondering, angels do appear to stop them "Well, it seems we have our answer already" Bayonetta steps forward with her pistols ready "Well, lunch can wait" Arto complains as he stores his sandwich away and pulls his sword out to fight "I swear, these bastards never know when to take a break"
Bayonetta chuckled, twirling her pistols before aiming them at the incoming angels. "Oh, darling, they don't need breaks. Unlike you and your little snacks." Arto sighed, cracking his neck as he readied his stance. "Well, excuse me for needing food like a normal person. Not all of us sustain ourselves on style and sass."
With a wicked grin, Bayonetta lunged forward, her bullets tearing through the first wave of angels. Arto followed right behind her, his sword slicing through the divine foes with precise, brutal efficiency.
The battle was fast-paced, a beautiful chaos of magic, gunfire, and steel. Bayonetta flipped through the air, her heels firing bullets as she weaved between attacks, while Arto's wolf-like agility let him tear through enemies in fluid, powerful strikes.
One of the larger angels swung its massive golden halberd at Bayonetta, but she effortlessly dodged, twisting in mid-air. "Oh, my, is that all you've got?" she teased, flipping backward and summoning Madama Butterfly's giant fist to slam the angel into the ground.
Arto, meanwhile, dashed between two enemies, his sword glowing with dark energy. With a single swift movement, he cleaved through them both, leaving nothing but glowing embers in their wake.
The last angel tried to flee, but before it could escape, Bayonetta and Arto both struck at the same time—her bullet piercing its skull while Arto's sword severed its wings. The creature let out a final cry before vanishing into golden dust.
Arto sheathed his sword, exhaling. "Alright, now can I eat?" Bayonetta holstered her guns, smirking. "Be my guest, but do try not to get ambushed again, hmm?" Arto pulled his sandwich back out, eyeing the ruins suspiciously before taking a bite. "No promises."
Arto and Bayonetta move deeper into the ruin, and clear a few more hordes of angels before they reach a grand room where 4 angels are surrounding something "What are you boys doing here?" Bayonetta asks as she walks in "Are you hiding something from me?" She mocks as their weapons direct at her "Oh now you want to fight?" Arto walks in while dusting angel's blood off his body "Your comrades are dying out there and you're enjoying yourselves in here, that's sad" he directs his sword at the angels and dashes in like a flash.
After dealing with the angels, Arto and Bayonetta walk to the place where those angels were looking at "There's something here" Arto exclaims as he walks over, Bayonetta follows but she suddenly stops midway as the weird voice rings out in her mind again "My sweet, lovely child, she is the key to you future" The voice the is followed by some weird singing voice
"Hey, Bayonetta, look what I found....Bayonetta....Bayonetta!" Arto calls out as the witch opens her eyes from her blackout "Was I just...singing?" She asks herself before a child's voice caught her attention "Mummy!"
Bayonetta immediately steps back from the little child "Whoa! Slow down little one, I'm not your mother" she exclaims, utterly confused about the situation before her while Arto looks at the 2 with a sly smirk, it's rare to see Bayonetta this defensive.
"But....Mummy!" the little one says innocently "Will you quit calling me Mummy!" Bayonetta grunts her voice, making the little girl cry, Arto takes this chance as he comes to her and scoops her up in his arms "Aww~Mummy is so scary, isn't she?" Arto asks gently "Don't worry, I'll take good care of you, little one~"
Bayonetta shot Arto a glare, crossing her arms. "Oh, you think this is funny, don't you?" Arto grinned as he bounced the little girl lightly in his arms. "Oh, absolutely. The mighty, untouchable Bayonetta, completely thrown off by a child? It's adorable."
The little girl sniffled, rubbing her teary eyes. "B-But... Mummy..." she whimpered, looking at Bayonetta with big, innocent eyes. Bayonetta sighs and flicks the girl's forehead with the grip of her pistol. "If there's 2 things I hate in this world, it's cockroaches and crying babies..."
"I think there is a crying baby cockroach climbing up your heel at the moment, Bayonetta~" Arto says teasingly while creating an illusion of a crying little cockroach climbing up her heels. Bayonetta's eyes twitched, and in a flash, she kicked her leg up, effortlessly flicking off an imaginary insect before shooting Arto a sharp glare. "You're hilarious, darling."
Arto chuckled, still cradling the little girl in his arms. "Oh, come on, you make it too easy." He turned his attention back to the little girl, brushing a stray tear from her cheek. "Don't mind her, little one. She's just grumpy because she's not used to someone actually needing her."
Bayonetta sighs and directs her attention to the little girl "You've got to be a strong little one to survive in a place like this" she comes closer to the girl who is still in Arto's arms "What is your name, anyway?" The girl looks at her and answers "Cereza"
"Cereza?" Bayonetta mutters as the girl nods "Where do you come from, little princess? You don't seem to be around here" Arto asks "I'm from my house" Cereza says, making Arto and Bayonetta raise their brows "What an answer, no information at all" He thinks, Bayonetta on the other hand asks "I see, so what are you doing here, little one?"
"My Daddy told me to come here" Cereza answers innocently "And where is this Daddy of yours?" Bayonetta asks further "He is at work, but now I don't know where he's gone. I want to go home" Arto nods "I see, it seems we'll have another companion in our adventure, my witch" he holds Cereza closely to him "Well, darling, then you'll be the one taking care of her"
"Agreed, you're not so good with kids after all. But as a consequence of this settlement, I won't be able to assist you much in battle, so you'll pretty much be on your own from now on, because this little princess here is now my responsibility" Arto says as he casts some protection spells over Cereza, preparing her for whatever they will face.
"Then it's settled" Bayonetta exclaims as she turns to walk ahead, but Cereza grabs onto her red ribbon and pulls Bayonetta back, this makes Arto chuckle seeing how effortlessly Cereza messes with Bayonetta "This is pure gold, too bad I didn't have my phone out to capture this"
"Don't get ahead of yourself, my knight" she then comes to Cereza "As for you, little one, we'll get you out of here, but you have to promise me there will be no crying. A single tear and you'll be crying alone...Got it?" Cereza shrunk before her Mummy's words "Yes...Mummy"
"Don't worry, dear, you can cry all you want if you're scared, as long as you help me mess with your scary Mummy" Arto whispers to her as they walk outside. Bayonetta shot Arto a look over her shoulder. "Oh, I heard that, you incorrigible mutt." Arto grinned. "What? I'm just making sure our little one here doesn't feel too pressured. Parenting is all about balance, you know." Arto walks ahead with Cereza in his arms and she is enjoying being carried around like this
On their way out of the ruin, they encounter a gate. When opening, it leads straight to Heaven, Arto looks around in amazement "Wow, never thought I could arrive in Heaven without dying, no wonder Vigrid has so much holy power to it."
But their time is cut short when a bunch of angels have sniffed them and come, Bayonetta comes forward to fight while Arto stays behind to protect Cereza who is holding tightly to his shirt "Don't worry, my little princess, I will never let you in any danger. But instead of watching, how about we do something more interesting?" Cereza tilts her head "I like interesting things" Arto rubs her head gently "That's the spirit, I teach you how to use magic"
"Really? You'll teach me?" Cereza looks at Arto with her eyes widened and excitement filling her voice, Arto giggles "Yes, magic, to protect yourself and to assist those in need, here, let me guide you" He says as his hand starts waving, magic circles start forming before his palm, Cereza follows his movements as he learns "That's it, let it flow through you, orchestrate it like a conductor, let your desire come to life" Arto whispers as his hand weaves magic into reality. Cereza follows as she forms a shield around herself to block an attack from an angel "That's it, my little genius, keep imagining"
Cereza nods and focuses as she weaves another shield that looks like her stuffed animal and directs it at Bayonetta, protecting her from an coming attack from an angel. The witch quickly finishes the sneaky attacker and turns back to Cereza, she blinked, momentarily caught off guard as she stared at the stuffed-animal-shaped shield floating in front of her. Then, she turned to Arto, her expression unreadable.
"You're telling me," she began slowly, adjusting her glasses, "that while I was busy actually fighting, you were over there playing magical kindergarten?" Arto grinned. "Hey, I'd say my little protégé just saved you from a nasty hit, Mummy."
Cereza beamed proudly. "Did you see, Mummy? I did magic!" Bayonetta sighed, placing a hand on her hip. "Yes, yes, I saw." She flicked her pistol, sending the last angel plummeting from the heavens with a final, well-placed shot. "And I suppose I should be mildly impressed."
"C'mon, Bayonetta, she deserves more praise than that" Bayonetta exhaled through her nose, tilting her head as she observed Cereza's bright, expectant eyes. For a moment, something flickered in her expression—something softer, something nostalgic.
Finally, she sighed dramatically and crouched down to Cereza's level, flicking the little girl's forehead lightly with her gloved fingers. "Alright, little one... I'll admit it. That was rather impressive. Not bad for a first-timer."
Cereza gasped excitedly. "Does that mean I'm a real witch now?!"
Bayonetta smirked, rising back to her full height. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves, sweetie. Magic is more than just pretty lights and stuffed animals." She crossed her arms and glanced at Arto. "And you, my dear professor, are rather reckless, teaching a child magic in the middle of a battlefield."
Arto chuckled, ruffling Cereza's hair. "Oh, please, she's a natural! She just saved your stylish behind, remember?" Bayonetta flipped her hair with a hmph. "Details." Then she turned, her gaze sharp as she surveyed their surroundings. "Now, as much as I'd love to continue this charming family moment, we're still standing in Heaven, and I don't plan on staying for afternoon tea." Arto nodded. "Agreed. Let us find more things for little Cereza to test her magic on" Arto playfully exclaims as he carries Cereza ahead
As they walk together, Bayonetta realizes that Arto is getting stronger every second "Didn't know you take power from holy ground, Angel in disguise?" she asks playfully, Arto shakes his head and answers "Nope, being here helps me cleanse the demonic energy that has been lingering in my body for a while which has caused me to be weakened due to an imbalance in influences. This is just me regaining my power, not getting stronger"
Bayonetta smirks "Let me guess, your devilish harem, right?" Arto looks ahead "Yeah, they tend to be close to me all the time, back then my immune system was doing okay, but after an event that I don't want to discuss, my immune system collapsed, leading to me being influenced by their demonic energy, the result is that now I'm here to heal myself using the closeness between this place and heaven. And I got to meet you, little Cereza" he says as he rubs his nose against hers, making the little girl giggles.
Bayonetta raised an amused brow, watching the way Arto interacted so naturally with Cereza. "Hmph, so you're telling me you've been weakened because your harem of devils has been too clingy? My, my, what a dilemma."
Arto chuckled. "You know, I like them being clingy like that, they never leave me alone, which is a good thing for me" Bayonetta tilted her head, a smirk playing on her lips. "Oh? The mighty Arto Abyssgard, afraid of a little solitude?" Arto shrugged, his usual playful demeanor fading just slightly. "Somewhat, yeah, there was a time when I was alone for so long I started to hate those feelings, not having people around makes me feel uncomfortable, insecure, scared even."
Arto exhales as his voice is relieved "But I'm lucky I had people to help me feel better, as far as I remember, I've been alone only a few times after that devastating solitude, and it was torturous. And from the time I had a harem, I never sleep alone, eat alone, bath alone, or even research alone anymore. I always have someone there with me"
"But have you ever faced it head on, Mister Abyssgard?" Cereza asks innocently "I have dear, I have plenty of times, but I failed, so I came running back to my family to feel and appreciate their presence in my life. I sometimes spend some alone while, just to remind myself how scary it is to be alone and how much I need people around me"
Bayonetta crossed her arms, watching him carefully. "And what would happen if all those people you love weren't there anymore? If one day, you were truly alone again?" Arto's expression flickered—just for a second—but he smiled, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Then I'd have to start over. Find new connections. It would hurt like hell, but staying alone? That's not an option for me. That's why I offered to craft you weapons and did it so carefully and flawlessly, I wanted not for the payment, but to close the distance between us 2 strangers back then, so that I could form a new relationship, so that I don't have to be alone."
Bayonetta studied him, her sharp gaze lingering for just a moment longer than usual. His words carried more weight than his usual playful banter, and for once, she didn't have a teasing remark ready. "Hmph," she finally said, adjusting her gloves. "So that's what that was about? Not generosity, not business—just a desperate little knight trying to avoid loneliness?"
Arto chuckled, though there was a certain honesty in his voice. "If that's how you want to see it, then sure. But I prefer to think of it as... investing in something worthwhile." Bayonetta scoffed, but there was no real bite behind it. "Sentimental fool."
Cereza, nestled against Arto, tilted her head. "Mummy, does that mean you're his friend now?" Bayonetta froze mid-step. Arto smirked. "Oh yeah, good question, little one. Mummy—are we friends?"
The witch shot them both a glare before flipping her hair over her shoulder. "Tch. You're barely an acquaintance." Cereza gasped dramatically. "But Mummy, he made you such pretty weapons!"
Bayonetta smirked. "Oh, I'm well aware. And I'll admit, they're decent." Arto turns to her "Decent!? Oh, Bayonetta, don't get me started on how hard you fell in love with those guns when I presented them to you. I still remember the way you traced every detail with those oh-so-delicate fingers of yours, practically purring over the craftsmanship. 'Oh my...~', 'They're gorgeous.~'" Arto tries to impersonate Bayonetta when she sets her eyes on the Scarborough Fair he made. Bayonetta's eye twitched as she shot Arto a deadly glare. "I do not sound like that."
Arto grinned, completely unfazed. "Oh, but you do, my dear! You were smitten." He dramatically held an imaginary gun, stroking the air as if admiring fine craftsmanship. "Running your fingers along the barrels, whispering sweet nothings to them. I thought for a moment I'd have to leave you two alone."
Cereza giggled at the impression, clearly enjoying Arto's antics. "Mummy does love her guns!" Bayonetta placed a hand on her hip, smirking despite herself. "I appreciate quality, darling. And I don't deny that your handiwork is adequate."
Arto feigned heartbreak, clutching his chest. "Adequate? You wound me, Bayonetta. After all I've done—pouring my heart, soul, and divine craftsmanship into those beauties—you call them adequate?" Bayonetta chuckled and strode forward, tossing him a teasing glance over her shoulder. "Oh, do try to keep up, acquaintance. We wouldn't want you getting lost in Heaven, now would we?"
"Fine, but you'll have to admit it one day, Bayonetta, that I made you the best weapons. Let's see if you could ever lay your hand on another pistol that isn't made by me" Bayonetta chuckled, her smirk deepening. "Oh, darling, you give yourself far too much credit."
Arto raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying the challenge. "Oh? So you're saying if you happened to find another pair of pistols, you wouldn't so much as compare them to mine?"
She stopped for just a second, then resumed walking. "I may compare," she admitted, adjusting her gloves. "But only to confirm what I already know." Arto grinned. "And what do you already know?" Bayonetta flicked her hair and shot him a knowing glance. "Secret" she walks ahead of Arto and Cereza towards the gate out of Heaven to get back to Vigrid.
When they land, the city at night, Arto looks at his watch. "Well, it's about time for my daily health report" Arto pulls his phone out as he turns to Cereza "Cereza, can you give me a moment? I need to make a call" Cereza nods and jumps down from Arto's arms and comes to Bayonetta. Arto nods as calls his girlfriend Rias Gremory to let her know he is recovering well today with a trip to heaven. "Rias my love~" he greets her lovingly "Arto, so you remember your promise this time~" she teases "Well, gotta keep my beloved informed about my condition. And today my health has improved greatly due to a little trip I had to heaven, the demonic influences were decreasing as my immune system is recovering"
"Mhm~Mhm~I see, that is a good progress, when can you return to us, Arto?" she asks as Arto can hear footsteps, like she was walking somewhere "I think with this rate, I'll be back in 2 weeks from now, 1 week earlier than anticipation" Arto says confidently "Good, I'll inform the ladies about this so that we can have a little feast for your return" the sound of door creaking open and then comes the sound of water running "Call it a day huh?"
"Nope, just a shower to freshen things up before doing my nightly duty" From Rias' side, a familiar voice was heard "President, I've brought clothes for you~" Akeno's voice rings out "Is that Akeno?" Arto asks "It's her, dear~Want to have a little talk with your Lightning Priestess?" Rias asks playfully as she opens the door of the bathroom "Akeno, our beloved wants to see you~"
Akeno's sultry voice came through the phone, teasing as always. "Ara~ Ara~ Arto-kun, 1 week without me and the toll is clear, right, my love?" Arto smiles "Yeah, not having you girls around has never been comfortable, but I'm managing, forming new relationships to keep myself from being lonely. Even so, I miss you girls, my loves"
Rias chuckled on the other end of the line, her voice dripping with amusement. "Oh? Forming new relationships, are we? Should we be jealous, Arto?"
Arto grinned, leaning against a nearby lamppost as he glanced over at Bayonetta and Cereza. "Not in the way you're thinking, love. Just keeping myself entertained while I heal. Can't have me wasting away in solitude, now can we?"
Akeno giggled, her voice laced with that familiar teasing tone. "Mmm~ You always did hate being alone. But don't worry, Arto-kun, when you come back, we'll make sure you don't feel lonely anymore." Arto sighed playfully. "You make it sound like I'll be allowed to get any rest when I return." Rias hummed. "That depends on how needy we all are by then."
Arto chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, I'll be back in two weeks. Until then, I'll keep recovering. And when I get home..." His voice dropped into a deep, smooth tone. "I expect a proper welcome."
Akeno let out a pleased hum. "Oh, you will, my love~" Rias laughed softly. "Stay safe, Arto. We'll be waiting." With that, the call ended, and Arto slipped his phone back into his pocket. He turned, only to find Bayonetta giving him a look—arms crossed, hip cocked, and an amused smirk playing at her lips.
But before they can talk, a storm approaches them with wind strong enough to make lamp poles broken and take to the sky the bridge is also broken by the gusting storm "Thing will get hectic from here, Arto, take Cereza and go, I think I know who caused this" Cereza immediately comes to Arto and jumps into his arms, not forgetting to cast a shield for her Mummy
"Stay safe, Mummy, we'll see you on the other side of the bridge!" the girl yells out, Arto pats her head "We'll see her soon, don't worry, little one, now, please close your eyes, it'll get a little dusty around here" Arto pulls his sword out and starts cleaving through any angels in his way to the other side of the bridge, leaving Bayonetta looking at the protection spell that looks like Cereza's plush toy around here with a smirk, she then head straight into the storm to find the one behind this.
Seeing Arto and Cereza out of sight, Bayonetta moves to an abandoned airport where she sees Temperantina, the massive Cardinal Virtue of Temperance, the one who caused the storm. Bayonetta gracefully walks towards the hurricane before her, a voice rings out to welcome her "Ahh, the lovely Bayonetta......Such beautiful eyes..." Temperantina appears from the hurricane "Despite the passing of time, you still hold the pride of an Overseer, don't you?"
Bayonetta doesn't falter, she catwalks her way forward "I feel like a fucking celebrity in this town" her pistols appearing on her hands, Bayonetta takes a flying debris as her seat to fly to the angel "Everyone rushes at me like crazed fans" She leans back against the stone debris "They still haven't figured it out that I don't give autographs!"
The massive Cardinal Virtue of Temperance starts talking as Bayonetta was flying around it "Long before this universe came to be, the first Armageddon split reality into light, dark and chaos. It was in this battle that those who rebelled against the light claimed dominion over the darkness......" Bayonetta calmly cleans her glasses while listening to the speech
"We have but one goal: resurrecting the Creator and reunifying the Trinity of Realities. This shall be the purpose of your sacrifice" it exclaims, but Bayonetta doesn't seem to care much about it "I'm not much for the talkative types." she says as she stands up from her seat "How about we have a little fun instead" she kicks the debris straight to the angel's face "We'll can have pillow talk later"
The battle breaks out between Bayonetta and Temperantine, the angel uses it tentacle-like fingers to attack and shoot out countless barrages of destructive bullets, lightning and hurricane was called as well to defeat the Umbra Witch, but Bayonetta never intents to back down as she evades all the attacks with her insane agility, jumping from debris to debris to attack the angel. One by one the armor was peeled, arms were severed by Bayonetta's demonic beast.
The one-on-one battle soon turns into a one-way beat down as Bayonetta destroys every piece of the angel, breaking it apart further and further until only a face is left. In the last moments of its life, Temperantina could only mutter "He was right! So wonderfully right! Your eyes....May the Creator grace you" Then it lets out a laughter as it was dragged down by infernal arms, ending the life of the massive Cardinal Virtue of Temperance.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by panther Bayonetta running to find Arto and Cereza)
The Umbra witch stands on the Vigrid Highway, heading to the next destination, Isla del Sol "That bridge on these heels? I don't suppose I can call a cab to get me to the island." She looks at the gate leading to the island being closed before her eyes. Suddenly, a supercar stops next to her, the door opens, revealing Arto sitting with Cereza inside "Hop on. We don't have much time, I don't want to destroy that gate, at all"
Bayonetta raised an eyebrow, placing a hand on her hip as she eyed the sleek supercar. "Oh? Where did you get this baby, my knight? Did you steal it? I thought you knights are all about dignity and honor~" Arto smirks "Nope, I bought it from a guy I met when I crossed that bridge, not so much, just a few million euros, but enough for a fast ride"
(A/N: Give me some suggestions on what car Arto bought in the comment of this line)
Bayonetta let out an amused chuckle, tapping a finger against her cheek. "A few million euros? Oh, darling, you do know how to spoil yourself, don't you?"
Arto shrugged with a playful grin. "Well, can't let my favorite witch ruin her precious heels running across an entire highway, now can I? Besides, my financial consultant suggested that I should spend more money and I think it's about time my superpower of being rich takes its effect" He patted the passenger seat. "Now, are you getting in, or do you prefer to sprint in style?"
Bayonetta smirked, placing a hand on her hip as she leaned down slightly, peering into the car. "Superpower of being rich, hmm? Now that's a truly terrifying ability." Arto chuckled. "Oh, you have no idea. You'd be surprised what problems can be solved with a well-placed bank transfer."
Bayonetta let out a soft chuckle before gracefully sliding into the passenger seat. "Fine. I'll allow you to chauffeur me—for now." She crossed her legs, making herself comfortable. "But do try not to bore me with your excessive wealth, darling."
Arto grinned and gripped the wheel. "You have no idea." With a flick of his fingers, he switched the car into high gear and slammed the accelerator and activated a spell. "Hold on tight ladies, this will break the world record of car's speed" The supercar roared like a beast unleashed, tearing down the Vigrid Highway at a blistering speed. Neon city lights streaked past, and the sound of the wind howling around them mixed with the engine's deep growl mixing with magic, making the car glide through the highway with insane speed.
Bayonetta raised an amused brow, gripping the door's handle as the car shot forward like a comet. "Breaking the world record, you say? Just try not to break my neck while you're at it."
Cereza let out a delighted squeal, clinging onto her seatbelt. "Faster! Faster!"
Arto chuckled, his fingers glowing faintly as the magic-infused vehicle surged even faster. The wheels barely seemed to touch the ground, leaving behind shimmering trails of light as if the car itself was defying physics. The highway turned into a blur of colors, buildings flashing past like streaks of neon in the night.
Bayonetta flicked her hair back, seemingly unbothered despite the sheer speed. "I'll admit, this is quite the thrill, my knight. But tell me—what exactly is this spell you've woven into your little toy?"
Arto smirked, eyes locked on the road. "Oh, just a little something to bend the concept of inertia itself—no friction, no air resistance, just pure velocity."
Bayonetta let out a soft chuckle. "And here I thought you weren't the type to show off." "Oh, darling," Arto shot her a playful glance. "I live to impress."
Suddenly, from the distance, golden light streaked across the sky—angelic reinforcements had noticed their little joyride. Bayonetta sighed, cracking her neck. "Hmph. And here I was enjoying the ride. Bayonetta, can you have me make this comet a little more....deadly, while most of those bastards could never hope to keep up with this speed, but better safe than sorry"
Bayonetta smirked, twirling a pistol between her fingers. "Oh? So the knight does know when to ask for a little extra firepower." Arto grinned, eyes still locked on the road. "I know better than to underestimate Heaven's persistence. So, what do you say? Care to weaponize this comet?"
With a flick of her wrist, Bayonetta summoned a few glowing glyphs around the car's sleek frame. "Oh, darling, you're lucky I'm feeling generous." She snapped her fingers, and a wicked pulse of magic surged through the vehicle. The headlights blazed crimson, the wheels left behind streaks of violet flame, and the car's body shimmered as dark metallic spikes extended from its sides.
Arto revved the engine, feeling the raw magic coursing through the machine. "Alright then, let's see if these angels can handle a hellbound supercar." With a roar, the newly empowered vehicle surged forward, cutting through the night like a cursed meteor, ready to tear through anything in its path. The angels, realizing what they were dealing with, descended in a flurry of divine light.
But their effort was proven futile as the car pushed through them like nothing while destroying everything that came in contact with it, even big angels couldn't handle the destructive power of the car. Arto laughed as the angels shattered on impact, their divine forms crumbling into golden dust the moment they touched the enchanted car. "Oh, this is glorious—a rampage on wheels!"
Bayonetta crossed her legs and leaned back in her seat, unimpressed. "Hmph. And here I thought I'd have to lift a finger." She watched as even the larger angels—ones that would normally take a drawn-out fight—were obliterated the instant they dared stand in their way.
Cereza clapped her hands excitedly. "It's like a big monster car! Vroom! Boom!" Arto grinned and ruffled her hair. "That's right, my little princess. Nothing can stop us now."
But like a mock to Arto's words, the path ahead was destroyed completely as a large chunk of the bridge leading to Isla del Sol was destroyed. Arto twitches his brows "Curse my words. But worry not, ladies, we will send this car flying through the cliff like a daredevil"
Arto increases the speed harder as the car dashes forward like lightning. And so the car was taken to the sky, but when it was midway, a flash of light cut the car in half, leaving Bayonetta, the only one in the passenger seat, falling down into a giant angelic sigil below "BAYONETTA!!" Arto yells as the front half of the car falls to the sea.
Arto quickly forms a spell to protect Cereza as he tries to take them to the other side of the highway, but he is attacked by a bunch of angels, forcing them to fall back to Vigrid's shore "Damn it, Where did they take her?" Arto and Cereza land safely on the shore as they start making their way into the jungle as Arto keeps fighting angels with his sword while carrying Cereza protectively with the other arm.
Cereza clung tightly to Arto, her small hands gripping his shirt as he effortlessly sliced through the angels blocking their path. Her voice trembled with worry. "Mummy... where did Mummy go?"
Arto's eyes burned with determination as he cut down another angel with a single, precise slash. "Don't worry, little one. We're going to find her. I swear it."
Arto slays down the last pursuing angel as he settles Cereza down "I think we're safe...for now" Arto pulls out a lollipop from his pocket and hands it to Cereza "Here, for being a brave girl"
Cereza took the lollipop with wide eyes, her small fingers wrapping around it before looking up at Arto with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Mister Arto..." She unwrapped it quickly and popped it into her mouth, the sweet taste helping to soothe her nerves.
Arto chuckled, ruffling her hair. "That's my little princess. You did great back there." She nodded but then glanced down, twirling the lollipop stick between her fingers. "Mummy is still missing..."
Arto crouched to her level, his expression softening. "I know. But we'll find her, Cereza. I promise. Your Mummy is one tough witch—she won't go down that easily, now, we need to keep you safe. Come with me" Arto crouches his body as he turns into a big gray wolf and looks at Cereza "Hop on, my little princess"
Cereza wastes no time to jump on his back, enjoying his soft, fluffy fur "So soft..." she hums and holds on tight to his fur "Let's go" Arto lets put a growl as he marches forward
(Timeskip: Brought you by Cereza riding wolf Arto's back)
When they arrive at the abandoned airport, Bayonetta is already there waiting for them. As Arto and Cereza emerged from the jungle and approached the abandoned airport, they were met with an unexpected yet welcomed sight—Bayonetta, standing with her arms crossed, tapping her heel against the cracked pavement. A smirk played on her lips as she watched them approach.
"Took you two long enough," she teased, flicking her glasses into place. "I was beginning to think I'd have to rescue myself and come find you."
Cereza gasped in delight, immediately sliding off Arto's back and running toward her. "Mummy!"
Bayonetta knelt just in time to catch Cereza as she jumped into her arms, holding the little girl close. "There, there, little one," she murmured, smoothing down Cereza's hair. "I told you, didn't I? No crying."
Arto, now back in his human form, dusted himself off as he approached with an amused grin. "Well, excuse us for making sure we didn't get torn apart by angels before reuniting with you, Miss Impatient."
Bayonetta raised an eyebrow. "And here I thought you were supposed to be the knight in shining armor." Arto scoffed. "Oh, I tried. But someone decided to get dramatically separated midair."
Bayonetta chuckled, standing to her full height. "I suppose I do have a flair for theatrics." Then she looked him over, her smirk softening just a little. "You're in one piece. That's surprising."
Arto shrugged. "What can I say? I promised Cereza we'd find you, and a knight never breaks his promise."
Suddenly, Arto dashes forward and hugs Bayonetta with Cereza in her arms as he pulls them back from a surprise attack, his swords appear midair as they slice through countless attacking tentacles, he looks at Bayonetta "Well, darling, you want to fight this thing or I do?"
Bayonetta blinked, momentarily caught off guard by Arto's sudden embrace. But before she could quip about it, she saw the writhing mass of tentacles retreating from the remnants of Arto's airborne swords, severed and twitching as they slithered back into the shadows.
She smirked, adjusting her stance as she held Cereza close. "Oh, my gallant knight, always so eager to sweep a lady off her feet." She handed Cereza gently to Arto. "But I think I'll take this one. I could use a bit of stress relief."
Arto chuckled as he secured Cereza in his arms. "Be my guest. Just don't get too carried away—I still want a turn." Bayonetta rolled her shoulders, her guns clicking into place as she eyed the creature lurking in the darkness. "We'll see if there's anything left after I'm done."
She then turns to the attacker, a flying ball full of faces and tentacles, Iustitia "Goodness, how do you get more ugly the more of you I meet? Didn't you see we were having a family reunion?"
With that said, Bayonetta launches forth to fight Iustitia head-on "Don't destroy everything, okay? I'll go find something that can help us get to Isla del Sol" he yells to her as he and Cereza take another path
"No promises" Bayonetta teases as she tears through the tentacles of Iustitia effortlessly with her power, cutting off all its weapons before she summons a giant centipede to squeeze the angel to death.
On its last breaths, Iustitia says its last words "It was as the Lumen Sage foretold...your power is indeed, magnificent..." the word rings a bell in Bayonetta's mind "The Lumen Sage?" The angel continues "Long have 2 eyes, one light and one dark, watch over the world and its history. It's this power that will allow the Creator to start a new cycle of creation" finally, it yells "Bayonetta, may the Creator grace you" before being pulled away by infernal arms, ending its life.
The Umbra witch arrives at an abandoned warehouse to see Arto is waiting with Cereza "I thought you were looking for a vehicle to take us to Isla del Sol, so where is it?" Arto points at the back of the warehouse, a plane is being filled with fuel "That's the thing we will use, if they make it fall again like last time, I swear...." Arto stands up and comes to Bayonetta "In this rare peaceful moment, let me fill you u...in about what I know regarding Lumen Sage, Umbra Witch and this city"
Bayonetta crossed her arms, eyeing Arto with mild curiosity. "Oh? You mean to tell me that you—a man who's barely been here for more than a week—have knowledge about my history?" Arto smirked, stepping closer, his tone playful but carrying a certain weight. "Let's just say I have a reliable history teacher, she was the one who had provided me with the information I needed about Vigrid before I came here" Arto walks back and forth in the warehouse. "Her story telling ability is exceptional and it was more fitting for her to dig up the memory. Unfortunately, she is not here now to tell the story, so I'll be the one telling you now, care to hear?"
Bayonetta arched a brow, intrigued despite herself. "Hmph. I do enjoy a good story—though I expect yours to be more than just bedtime tales, dear." Arto chuckled, leaning casually against a stack of crates. "Oh, don't worry, Bayonetta. This isn't some fairy tale. It's the truth—at least, the version I found." He glanced at Cereza, making sure she was comfortably occupied with her plush before continuing. "There were 2 clans, Umbra Witches and the Lumen Sages. You know this well. Darkness and light, existing in harmony to maintain the balance with the power of the Eyes of the World, their mission was clear, maintain the world's peace and oversee it together like the sun and the moon " He crossed his arms. "Until one day, they disappeared from their homeland without a trace, without a warning, 2 powerful, esteemed clans were just gone"
Bayonetta watched him carefully as he continued "And the place that witnessed their disappearance. is here in Vigrid, 500 years ago, yes, as long as your slumber in that coffin down that lake." Bayonetta stays silent like when she remembers something, then she looks at Arto"You know what happened, don't you?"
"I only know the general idea of what caused the disappearance, but the details are beyond me. It all started from a child" Arto says "A child?" Bayonetta looks at him with disbelief "Yes, a child born from the love that sparked between 2 clans, a Lumen Sage and an Umbra Witch. This caused massive resentment from both clan for the other to the point the mother was put in jail and the father was exiled"
"What about the kid?" she asks "She was raised among the Umbra Witches, but always a blacksheep for people to hate and resent, all because of her origin" Arto sighs "That's the fuel and that fuel only needed a spark to burn everything down" Arto sigh "And that spark was when a sentence spread among the Lumen Sage 'The Eyes of the World can be united to reshape reality itself', and so, the Lumen Sage had a reason, 2 birds with one stone, they can erase the witches, who they believed to have disrupted the natural order, they can also get their hand on they other Eye of the World to reshape the world as they see fit"
Bayonetta's expression remained unreadable, but her fingers curled slightly, her grip tightening against her own arms. The weight of Arto's words hung heavy between them. But he isn't done "The war was severe, both clans fell in that war and yet, the Left Eye of Darkness, the one belonging to the Umbra Witches, was never found, it disappeared in that war without a trace and was never seen ever again. All in all, both sides lost without gaining anything"
Bayonetta let out a slow exhale, her gaze drifting downward for just a moment before she lifted her head, her expression carefully composed. "Why are you telling me this now, Arto?" Arto shrugs "To pass some time before the fuel for that plane was, now it's ready to go. I'll go learn to ride an airplane a little, you take care of Cereza for me, alright?"
Bayonetta lets out a smirk "Oh now we're having a pilot who has never ridden a plane, should I be concerned about our safety, dear?" Arto shakes his head playfully "Don't worry, I didn't know how to ride a car either and look at what I did with that car on the highway after 3 minutes of learning. Learning how to ride a plane won't be that hard, give me 15 minutes and we can fly comfortably and professionally"
Without another word, Arto left Bayonetta behind and went to learn flying a plane. Bayonetta stays back to look after Cereza, the little girl comes to stand near Bayonetta, copying her standing pose, Bayonetta tries to ignore the girl but she breaks the silence between them "Mummy, are you looking for something?" She asks innocently "I am" she answers quickly, but the little girl poses another question with the same pace "How did you lose it?" Bayonetta was at a loss for words, she didn't know how to answer the little girl who is still looking at her eagering for an answer.
"Little one, do you have anything you like, like really important to you?" Bayonetta tries to change the topic, Cereza looks around as she shows Bayonetta her plush toy, but after a moment, she shakes her hand and reaches into her pocket to pull out a golden watch "Yes! This! I love it" Bayonetta looks at the watch in awe because it was weirdly similar to what she has "Where did you get this?" She asks Cereza, to which the little answers "You gave it to me, on my birthday"
Bayonetta stays silent for a while, looking closely at the watch before she reaches up her hair and pulls a ribbon out "When you love something, never lose it" she ties her ribbon to the watch "You must keep it safe, close to your heart" she then puts the hand-made necklace on Cereza's neck. The girl was brimming with joy, like she had won a medal.
When she was playing, Arto rode the plane towards them "Hop on, ladies, let's go" Bayonetta picks Cereza up and moves onto the plane as Arto effortlessly makes it take off "See? Professional." Bayonetta rolled her eyes but smirked nonetheless. "Professional? Oh, darling, I'd hardly call this a first-class experience. I expected more from the plan you bought, at least a champagne and some plush seats. " Arto smirks "I could buy it, but they didn't sell me, negotiating for this military jet would take too long, so I borrowed it without permission."
Bayonetta let out an amused chuckle, settling into her seat with Cereza in her lap. "Oh, Arto, you do have a habit of 'borrowing' expensive toys. First a supercar, now an entire plane. I'm beginning to think you have a problem." Arto grinned as he adjusted the controls. "Hey, I bought the car, remember? Buying a plane isn't that simple, let alone a military one like this"
Cereza giggled, hugging her plush close. "Mister Arto, you always find fun rides!" Bayonetta smirked, tapping a finger against her cheek. "Oh, he certainly does, little one. Though whether they stay in one piece is another story. The car was splitted in half last time on the highway if I remembered correctly"
Arto scoffed, feigning offense. "Now that's just rude. I'll have you know this plane will land in pristine condition. No explosions, no midair hijinks—" Just then, an alarm blared, flashing red lights illuminating the cockpit. Bayonetta raised an eyebrow. "You were saying, dear?" Arto sighs "Nothing, you won, Bayonetta, please go deal with whatever is disturbing us"
"That's more like it" Bayonetta giggles as she walks out of the flying plane to face her usual opponent of this trip, Jeanne "Back to your old self, are we?" the white-haired witch asks mockingly while looking down at Bayonetta from a high pole of the plane "Why so glum? Something troubling you?" Bayonetta turns back and places a hand on her hip in annoyance "Only your constant fretting over my state of affairs. I've no time to play games with you"
"No need to take out the annoyance on me, Bayonetta. It's clear you've grown attached to the little girl and that knight. I was wondering what would you do when I kill them?" Bayonetta's eyes sharpened "That Abyssgard mutt would take a while, but the little girl would just take a moment" Bayonetta dashes herself to where Jeanne is as they fight on the plane, their battle is making the plane unstable. Arto in the cockpit complains "Damn it, Bayonetta, at least mind our safety down here"
Back outside of the plane, the fight goes on with Jeanne and Bayonetta fighting on equal ground, no one seems to have the dominance over the other, their magic and pistols were used to their maximum capacity. After a while, 2 Umbra witches step back and looks at each other in the eyes, Bayonetta was the first to raise voice, and her voice was filled with anger "Don't you dare think you can lay a finger on them" Jeanne smirks "My, aren't we attached to our little one and that little mutt?"
Before Bayonetta could reply, a figure appears and holds onto the plane, Arto groans in annoyance in the cockpit "Oh c'mon, I've only learnt how to fly this for 15 minutes and now a giant angelic dragon is latching on the plane. What a freaking day!" His mind drives back to Enzo and him cursing and yelling in dire situations "Somehow I feel sympathy for him" Arto thinks as he tries to balance the plane and keeps it going with both magic and mechanics.
"Why must you needlessly stumble and stall?" the angel growls "Have you forgotten the task with which you have been charged? Make haste, for the era of the Creator approaches" Jeanne displays clear annoyance on her face "I'm well aware of my task" she points her pistol at the dragon "But you've forgotten that I do not need your help" with that said, Jeanne jumps on the dragon's head and pushes it down with her feet, making the thing fall off, but it didn't go without causing trouble as a fire attack of it burns a wing of the plane.
"God dammit!" Arto yells as he tries to make sure the plane is flying with balance "Cereza dear, sit tight, I'm heading out." With that said, Arto splits into 2 people, one sitting at the cockpit, one goes to the burnt wing to fix it. Cereza clutches her plush tightly, watching in awe as Arto seemingly exists in two places at once. "Mister Arto, how can you do that?" she asks, wide-eyed.
The Arto in the cockpit grins. "A little trick I picked up. Handy for multitasking, don't you think?" The other Arto, meanwhile, moves across the plane's wing, his coat whipping violently in the wind. He places a hand on the burnt section, his palm glowing as he channels magic into the metal. Slowly, the structure begins to repair itself, the flames dying out as the damage mends "I wasn't paid enough for this...wait, where is my payment in this!? I've only been spending since the moment I came here!" he complains as the metal mends together.
On top of the plane, Jeanne looks at Bayonetta with a mocking grin "It seems our little friend is gone forever" with that said, 2 witches start their battle once more on the moving plane, their gunfire illuminating the night sky as they exchange rapid blows atop the unstable aircraft. Bayonetta smirks, spinning mid-air as she dodges a barrage of bullets. The battle intensifies as the aircraft gets more and more unstable, the Arto in the cockpit presses any button he can reach to keep the plane not falling to the sea "Cereza, hold on, this will get a little shaky" Little Cereza complies and fastens her seatbelt and clutches her plush tighter "Will we be okay, Mister?"
"We will, dear, as soon as the other Arto finishes fixing the wing." On the burning wing, the other Arto continues working on the wing, his hands glowing with magic. "Okay, okay... almost done..." The metal hums as it reshapes itself, returning to its original form.
On top of the plane, Bayonetta and Jeanne are still fighting and it's getting more intense by the second, the raven-haired witch launches herself at Jeanne, but she was able to block it, the 2 witches look at each other in the eyes "Fill it! Fill your eyes with hatred, Bayonetta" Jeanne's gaze firms "Accept your violent fate! Accept it and earn the Left Eye. Prove that you deserve it" Bayonetta only stays silent and keeps fighting, this time harder. Slowly, the raven-haired witch gains the upper hand in the battle as Jeanne is pushed back further and further. Until an attack of Bayonetta knocks Jeanne off the plane. The battle was concluded as the plain stabilizes
At the burning wing, the plane was stabilized after the wing was healed, Arto sighs "Finally, it's done" he then comes back to the cockpit and merges with the other one "Now we can safely—" another alert blares in the cockpit "Oh, what now!?" The victory didn't live long as another figure latches onto the aircraft, the one Jeanne pushed down the plane earlier, it's back for a payback, Sapientia.
Arto groans, gripping the controls tightly as the plane rattles from the sheer force of the angel's landing. "Oh, for the love of—what is it with these bastards and hitching rides on my plane?!"
Bayonetta, catching her breath after her battle with Jeanne, looks down at the massive form of Sapientia, the Wisdom of the Deep. The grotesque angel glares at her, its serpentine limbs coiling around the aircraft's wings. Arto talks to Bayonetta through the communicator "You know the drill, Bayonetta, I keep this thing flying while you put that lizard to sleep, sounds cool? Or I'll let Cereza do whatever with the controller and head out with you for a hard-mode?" Bayonetta smirks, cracking her neck as she reloads her pistols. "As tempting as it is to watch you flail around on 'hard mode,' dear, I think I'll handle this one myself."
Bayonetta smirks, cracking her neck as she reloads her pistols. "As tempting as it is to watch you flail around on 'hard mode,' dear, I think I'll handle this one myself."
Arto chuckles through the communicator. "Your loss. I'm sure Cereza would've made an excellent pilot." Cereza, clutching her plush, tilts her head. "Mister Arto, I don't know how to fly a plane..."
"Exactly." Arto grins. Bayonetta rolls her eyes, stepping onto the unstable wing of the aircraft, her heels clicking against the metal. "Alright, big boy," she taunts, aiming at Sapientia's massive, hideous face. "Shall we dance?"
The angel lets out an ear-splitting roar, its golden eyes burning with divine fury. Its massive claws swipe at Bayonetta, forcing her to flip backward into the air. With fluid grace, she lands atop one of its thrashing tentacles, using it as a springboard to launch herself higher.
Bang! Bang! Bang! Her bullets pierce the angel's armored scales, but Sapientia barely flinches. Instead, it coils its tail around the plane's fuselage, shaking the entire aircraft violently.
"Ohohoh~You think I'll let you do whatever again? You're dead wrong" With that said, Arto initiates a spell, summoning magical spears that appear on the outside of the aircraft as they impale the skin of the angel violently before folding themselves into hooks, keeping Sapientia pinned to the plane. Arto then moves his hand to the weapon controller of the plane "Let's lighten this baby a little, shall we?"
Arto presses the buttons for the cannons and machine guns on the plane to work, shooting everything they have at Sapientia. Barrages of bullets and cannonballs which were infused with Arto's magic tore through the angel's skin, making it growl in pain. It tries to move its massive body out to tear the plane apart but its attempt fails "You like latching onto this plane? Latch onto it!" Arto grunts as he starts drawing power from the angel with the hooks "Bayonetta, the execution is yours, my witch"
Bayonetta smirks, blowing a strand of hair from her face as she watches Sapientia struggle. "Oh, Arto, how thoughtful of you," she purrs, strutting across the plane's wing. "You've gone and tied it up all nicely for me. I do enjoy a bit of restraint before the grand finale."
Cereza, still clutching her plush, tilts her head in confusion. "Mummy, what's an execution?" Arto, still focused on keeping the plane steady, chuckles. "It's when she gets really creative, dear."
Bayonetta winks at Cereza before turning her attention back to the writhing angel. She raises a hand, shadows swirling around her as she begins her incantation. The air crackles with Infernal energy as Madama Butterfly's massive hands emerge once again, their claws flexing with anticipation.
"Oh, my dear Sapientia," Bayonetta coos mockingly. "You had such grand ambitions, didn't you? But in the end, you're nothing more than a fish out of water." The magical chains keeping Sapientia bound glow with power as Arto feeds more energy into them, siphoning the angel's strength to keep it from escaping.
She flips backward off the wing, her body spiraling gracefully as she calls upon the full might of her contract. The shadows at her feet twist and surge upward, forming a massive portal to Inferno.
With a deafening ROAR, a new figure emerges—a towering, monstrous demon with the body of a colossal toad and golden rings pierced through its limbs. The demon, Baal, lets out a guttural croak, its massive, glistening tongue extending hungrily toward Sapientia.
Bayonetta lands smoothly on Baal's outstretched tongue, balancing effortlessly on her heels. "Go on, darling," she whispers. "Dinner is served."
With terrifying speed, Baal's tongue wraps around Sapientia's thrashing form, squeezing tighter and tighter. The angel lets out one final, agonized screech before Baal yanks it into its gaping maw, teeth snapping shut with a sickening CRUNCH.
A moment of silence. Then, with an unceremonious gulp, Baal swallows Sapientia whole. Bayonetta flips off the demon's tongue, landing effortlessly back onto the plane as Baal disappears into the Infernal void. She dusts off her gloves, a satisfied smirk on her lips. "That's one less nuisance in the sky."
"That's enough blood for a day, good news, the angelic energy we harvested from that angel can help us reinforce the defense of this plane even further, this thing can take a few rockets without problem" Arto exclaims as he strengths up the plane with holy power "That's more like it, rest now, Bayonetta, we're heading to Isla del Sol in no time"
"You don't have to tell me twice, wolf knight, I've earned my rest fair and square today" Bayonetta says as she leans back at her seat, crossing her legs elegantly and immediately falls asleep. Arto turns to Cereza "You can loosen up a bit, princess, we can relax a little." Cereza sighs lightly as she loosens her hug around her Cheshire and starts playing with it like usual.
Notes:
To be continued...
Chapter 32: The witch (part 3)
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
"Here we are in Isla del Sol" Arto wakes Bayonetta up as they are approaching the island and what welcome them are barrages of rockets "Oh, great, now I have a great test for the reinforcement" Arto leans back at his chair as an idea comes to his mind, he turns to Cereza "Hey, little one, it's about time we use that thing again" Cereza looks at him and tilts her head "You mean Cheshire Shield?"
"Yes, the one I taught you to do, it's time we put it through a test. Lean back, Mummy Bayonetta, let little Cereza have the show of her own" Bayonetta stretches lazily, rolling her shoulders as if the approaching storm of rockets is nothing more than a mild inconvenience. "Oh? Giving the little one the spotlight, are we? How very generous of you, Arto."
Arto smirks as he keeps the plane steady, dodging a few incoming projectiles. "Well, she did practice hard. Time to see if it pays off." He winks at Cereza. "Ready, princess?" Cereza nods determinedly, gripping her plush Cheshire close. She closes her eyes, focusing. A soft glow emanates from her tiny hands as she channels the magic Arto taught her. "Cheshire, help us!"
In an instant, a shimmering barrier shaped like a translucent, oversized version of her plush materializes around the plane. The energy pulses outward, forming a protective dome just in time to absorb the impact of the first wave of rockets. The explosions light up the sky, but the shield holds firm, dispersing the energy harmlessly, no matter if it's from the angels or from the projectiles.
Arto looks at her closely. "Not bad, not bad at all! You might just be my favorite co-pilot. Now, let's keep the power flow steady, focusing on the front of the plane" Cereza follows like a good student, manipulating energy got from the angel to harden the shield, making missiles bound off it down to the sea and the attacks of angels bouncing back at them
Cereza giggles, her hands still glowing as she maintains the shield. "Hehe! Cheshire is strong!" Bayonetta watches with mild amusement, her lips curving into a smirk. "Well, well... Perhaps I've been underestimating you, little one." She crosses her legs, leaning back. "But do try not to get too cocky, dear. A true witch must always be graceful in her craft."
Cereza puffs up proudly. "Like you, Mummy?" Bayonetta chuckles. "Precisely. Now, let's get creative, shall we?" Arto raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? You have something in mind, Bayonetta?"
The raven-haired witch smirks, watching as the missiles continue to bounce harmlessly off Cereza's shield. "Darling, defense is only half of a battle. Wouldn't you agree?"
Cereza tilts her head. "Mummy?" Bayonetta leans forward, her eyes glinting mischievously. "We have all this excess energy just sitting here. Why not send it back as a little parting gift?"
Arto grins. "Heh. I like the way you think."
He turns to Cereza. "Alright, princess. Can you redirect some of that energy? Focus it into a nice, big boom for our friends down below?"
Cereza nods eagerly, closing her eyes again. The shield around the plane starts shifting, warping and concentrating toward the front. The translucent form of Cheshire flickers with golden light, absorbing the remaining impact energy from the rockets.
"Good, now—on my mark," Arto instructs, adjusting the plane's angle slightly. "Three... two... one... release!"
With a small but determined cry, Cereza extends her hands forward. The accumulated energy in the shield surges outward in a pulse, forming a massive, Cheshire-shaped shockwave. The blast tears through the sky, colliding with the remaining missile launchers below. The resulting explosions light up the island like a festival of destruction.
Arto lets out an impressed whistle. "Damn. Now that's firepower." Bayonetta smirks approvingly. "Not bad, little one. With a bit more practice, you might even rival me someday."
Cereza beams, hugging her plush. "Hehe! Did you see that, Mister Arto?" Arto laughs. "Saw it? Princess, you just took out half their welcome party. I think they felt it."
But once they are close to the island, a massive Umbran magic circle appears and from it a massive fist comes out, attempting to destroy the plane. Arto quickly fetches Bayonetta and Cereza to jump out of the plane before the fist collides with the plane, destroying it completely. They land on the top of a massive building, a familiar voice captures their attention
"Welcome to Isla del Sol, island of wealth and power" Jeanne stands proudly on the top of a missile looking down "If you've made it this far, that should be enough, You're back to your old self." she exclaims "This is where we finish what we started so long ago" Jeanne uses a remote and starts shooting missiles into the sky
"A friend of my enemy is also my enemy. Be it Witch or Sage" Jeanne claims as another time the button was pressed and a new set of missiles was launched into the sky "The Lumen Sage...They were our counterbalance as overseers" another set launched "Between us, there was a law that was never to be broken."
"It's stated that 'The intersection of light and dark would bring calamity to this earth'" 2 more missiles launched "But 500 years ago, a child was born in clear violation of this tenet" Jeanne's eyes sharpened as she looks at Bayonetta "That child was you" More missiles were launched into the sky
"The disaster this caused sent the clans into a spiral of chaos that continues to be felt till this day" Jeanne spreads her arms wide "You, the half-breed of light and dark, are the one at the center of that chaos"
"Allowing you to continue to exist is a danger that cannot be accepted." Bayonetta stands there in silence and into a blackout that brought her memory back "When the Eyes of the World are within our grasp, the power of creation will be awaken" Jeanne says loudly in Bayonetta's head when she thrusted a dagger through Bayonetta's heart "That's why the Left Eye, our treasured Left Eye....will never fall into the hand of another"
Bayonetta's eyes snap open as Jeanne gracefully lands before her "The Left Eye, our treasured Left Eye will never fall into the hand of another" she says "Bayonetta, it's time that this is put to an end....that you are brought to an end" Bayonetta lowers her voice "You....you did it" But Jeanne pays her no mind as she continues "It is our charge as witches to protect the treasure of the clan by any mean needed, even if it means burning every inch of this island to a crisp"
"What a plan you've got there, Jeanne, as much as I hate breaking it for you, but your missiles are not working anymore" Arto raises his voice from behind Bayonetta "I know how much you 2 miss each other, but let's just keep it between you two, alright, don't pull any innocent people into this, me and Cereza are 2 first examples of this antic between you 2"
Arto picks up Cereza "Well, fight well, ladies, I'll see you at Ithavoll Tower, or maybe just you, Bayonetta" Cereza looks back at Bayonetta with worried eyes. "Mummy..." but she doesn't have a chance for another word as Arto takes her away. "Bayonetta. Time is of the essence. This can wait no longer" the 2 then get into a fight that spans across buildings.
As Bayonetta soars through the sky on a jet-propelled missile, she finds herself locked in a fierce confrontation with Jeanne, her longtime rival and fellow Umbra Witch. The battle erupts amidst the neon-lit skyline of Isla del Sol, the towering structures of the Paradiso-affiliated city glistening in the distance. The wind roars past them as the two warriors balance effortlessly atop the speeding projectiles, locked in a deadly dance of gunfire, magic, and acrobatics.
Jeanne, clad in her crimson Umbra battle attire, wastes no time in unleashing a relentless assault. She dashes across the missiles with inhuman agility, firing precise rounds from her high-powered guns while conjuring spectral limbs through wicked weaves. Bayonetta counters with her own elegant yet brutal techniques, responding with blistering gunfire and devastating combos that shake the very foundations of the airborne battlefield.
The two witches clash in midair, their strikes colliding with explosive force as sparks of magic ignite around them. With every well-timed dodge, Bayonetta enters Witch Time, slowing reality itself and using the opportunity to launch a counteroffensive, striking Jeanne with rapid blows and finishing kicks. However, Jeanne is no ordinary opponent—she, too, possesses the power of Witch Time, neutralizing Bayonetta's advantage and matching her move for move.
As they leap and weave between the airborne missiles, the combat intensifies. Jeanne executes her signature wicked weave, summoning a colossal boot to crush Bayonetta, but the latter evades at the last moment, responding with a punishing barrage of kicks and gunfire. The missiles beneath them detonate upon impact, creating fiery explosions that illuminate the night sky.
In the midst of the chaos, the two witches launch their strongest attacks, summoning their respective Infernal Demons—Madama Butterfly for Bayonetta and the fearsome Madama Styx for Jeanne. The two demonic entities materialize in a clash of titanic force, their spectral forms engaging in a brief yet intense struggle before dissipating back into the ether.
As the battle reaches its climax, Bayonetta gains the upper hand, breaking through Jeanne's defenses with a series of well-executed blows. With one final, decisive strike, Jeanne is sent hurtling from the missile, down to another building as they keep fighting, each attack brings Jeanne closer to her defeat. And with one last decisive strike, Jeanne was defeated, she lay weakly on the building.
When Bayonetta comes to her, she mutters "Now it's decided" Bayonetta answers "So it is" Jeanne continues "The fear is still not gone from your eyes" Bayonetta crouches down "Fear?"
"The memories you've held for 500 years are the source of your fear. They cloud your vision" Jeanne mutters between tired pants "But now, you've accepted your fate. That's how you bested me"
"That's why you possess the most beloved treasure of Umbra Witches, the Left Eye" Bayonetta looks down at her Umbra Watch and picks out the red crystal at the center of it "We fought for this stone. And because of it, everyone died"
Jeanne weakly reaches out to take the gem into her fingers "This gem brings back so much memories" weird runes appear on the gem, unlocking the last piece of memory for Bayonetta. That thrust wasn't to kill Bayonetta, but to turn her into the Left Eye, the last part of the memory plays out as Jeanne shouts "Do not fear your fate. Stand....Cereza"
Bayonetta snaps out of it and looks down at Jeanne who has weakened greatly"In the innocence of our childhood, we used to play together as friends." Bayonetta clasps her hands into Jeanne, trying to keep her back "But through time, maybe even my eyes was clouded with fear" the raven-haired witch mutters "We were...?"
"Do not fear your fate. Stand, Cereza. Stand and open your eyes. For with every truth, there will be another to be seen" Jeanne's voice was ragged, like she was at her last breaths. Suddenly, an explosion happens behind them, Bayonetta points her guns behind and it was Arto holding his one of his hand up while the other was holding Cereza "Put that gun down, that's not how you thank the one who blocked 2 missiles for you two, you're welcome anyway"
"Mummy, are you okay?" Cereza jumps down from Arto's arm and comes to Bayonetta to check on her "I'm alright, little one" Bayonetta smiles gently as she gently rubs Cereza's hair. Meanwhile, Arto comes to Jeanne to hand her a bean "Here, eat this" Jeanne looks at Arto "What is that?" Arto shrugs " Zensu healing bean, it can help you recover, still not completed so the effect won't be immediate, but not harmful. Test this for me, will you? I'm selling this in the future"
"I'm suing you if anything happened to me" Jeanne scoffs but she still takes the bean "If that day comes, name a price, I'll make up for you" Arto smirks.
Jeanne rolls her eyes but pops the bean into her mouth anyway. Almost immediately, a faint warmth spreads through her body, dulling the worst of her pain, slowly healing her wounds. She raises an eyebrow. "Huh. Not bad."
"This is a good start, but don't move yet, you are still weak. Rest up, and when you're ready, come to Ivatholl Tower, we'll see you there"
With that said, Arto, Bayonetta and Cereza move to Ithavoll building, the highest tower in Isla del Sol, getting inside Cereza immediately calls out "Daddy...?" Much to Arto and Bayonetta's surprise "Daddy?" Bayonetta asks "Yes, Daddy, I'm coming, and I'll bring Mummy with me" she runs ahead, leaving Arto and Bayonetta behind "Little one..." Arto calls out as he runs behind her, Bayonetta follows into the hall but when they are in, Cereza is gone, leaving only an empty place
Arto twitches his eyebrows "That does it! I'm pulling this place down with whoever owns this place, first they kidnapped Cereza, now they make me walk to the top of this building..." Arto walks forward with an evil smile and his sword ready. An army of angelic soldiers is already there waiting for them, Arto exhales before his sword dances through the fray with an insane speed, covering the whole hall in blood "Let's go" Arto turns into his wolf form as he runs forward. Bayonetta giggles as she herself turns into a panther to follow him up the tower
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Ithavoll building being wrecked havoc by Arto and Bayonetta)
"Finally, we're here, those bastards didn't even activate 1 elevator...they really know how to annoy people. Well, the owner is here, let us have a talk about the unreasonable design of this building" Arto pants as he turns back to his human form. Bayonetta was right behind him "Come now, my wolf knight, are we here for Cereza or elevators? Don't tell me you slayed through those angels out of anger for no elevator"
Arto glares at Bayonetta, still catching his breath. "Listen, if I ever have to run up that many stairs again, I will personally tear this place down and build an elevator myself. But you're right, Cereza first."
They barge into the grand chamber at the top of the building where they see Cereza is sitting in the arms of a man in white attire with a peacock as his spotlight "Mummy's here, Mummy's here" Cereza calls out "Little one......" Bayonetta mutters.
"You've arrived, my dear, sweet Cereza" he welcomes "My, my...why the grim face, my dear?" he teases "As a child, your smile was warmer than the sun" Bayonetta pays the man's nonsense no mind as she speaks "So, you're the last of the Lumen Sages"
"I am indeed" he turns his chair back to face Bayonetta and Arto "My name is Balder" he gently rubs Cereza's hair "But if you so choose, you can address me as...Father"
Arto and Bayonetta stay silent while looking at the man intently "There is much you've forgotten. After all, it's been 500 years since we last met" Balder exclaims "If your memory was still intact, this would be a more emotional reconciliation" a tint of sadness etched in his voice
"Where did you get the girl?" Bayonetta asks bluntly, not a tint of care for the man who calls himself her father. Balder slowly stands up with Cereza in his arms "Where should I begin?"
"Where you got the girl, dammit, stop beating around the bush, I don't care about your speech, I've already known you're trying to revive the Creator by offering up the Eyes of the World. Correct me if I'm wrong but you were the one started the war between 2 clans, leading to the demise of both to claim the Left Eye, captured and manipulated Jeanne to work for you, kidnapped Cereza from the past in order to wake the Left Eye in Bayonetta up. All in all, you will sacrifice your own daughter for your delusional dream of becoming a god to reshape reality as you see fit. See? That short and simple, you should really learn how to give a speech" Arto scoffs
"How did you know so much?" Bayonetta asks "When you're fighting, I connected dots to make a full story, I'll tell you about it later, now let's get our little one back and take her home...true home" Arto draws his sword and points at Balder and launches forward, only to be pushed back by a burst of power from Balder.
The Lumen Sage then absorbs Cereza into himself to become some monstrocity. Arto grits his teeth, his grip on his sword tightening. "Oh, you twisted bastard! You're using your own daughter as a damn power boost?!" He takes a step forward, his aura flaring with raw fury. "I've fought a lot of messed-up things in my time, but you just set a new bar for disgusting."
Bayonetta strides up beside him, her pistols spinning effortlessly in her hands. Her usual smirk is nowhere to be seen—only cold determination. "I don't give a damn about your divine will," she states, her voice like steel. "You took my little one, and for that..." She points a gun straight at his head. "You die."
The battle between Arto and Bayonetta against Balder begins with golden spears rain down like a divine storm, their impact shaking the entire tower. Arto and Bayonetta move in perfect sync—Bayonetta flipping backward, firing bullets mid-air, while Arto dashes forward, his sword slicing through the incoming projectiles, shattering them into harmless shards of light.
The battle goes on violently until Arto gives Bayonetta something "Hold this, put them on your guns and be wild, my witch" sigils gleaming with gray light sitting idly in her hand "What is this, Arto?" She asks "Just put it on and you'll see" Arto answers as he blocks another attack from Balder.
Bayonetta puts one sigil on her watch and one on each of her guns as she shoots a bullet at Balder and to her surprise, it pierces through all his defense and hits him directly "What...?" Bayonetta and Balder both wonder but Arto gives him another attack that brings him back to reality. "Focus!"
Balder unleashes a barrage of light attacks and it hits Bayonetta directly, but they did absolutely nothing to her, not only that, she feels a boost in mana coursing all over her body "What...?" She and Balder wonder at the same time again, Arto has to once again snap Balder out with a slash that caused a crack on where Cereza was held captive. "Focus!"
He then turns to Bayonetta "I thought I ordered a wild witch, where is she?" Bayonetta twirls her guns in her hands, a slow, knowing smirk creeping across her lips. "Oh, I see now... You've been holding out on me, wolf knight." The sigils on her weapons pulse with gray light, their energy surging through her like a firestorm. She flexes her fingers, feeling the raw, untamed power flowing through her veins.
Balder steadies himself, his golden aura flickering as he eyes the new power radiating from Bayonetta. "This magic... it's unnatural." Arto laughs, cracking his knuckles as he moves into a stance. "Unnatural? No, unpredictable. And that's a problem for you, isn't it?" He dashes forward, clashing swords with Balder in a series of rapid strikes, his blade carving through light and shadow alike.
Bayonetta, meanwhile, lifts one gun and fires. The bullet, charged with Arto's sigil's energy, twists in mid-air, defying physics before slamming into Balder's shoulder—ignoring his barrier entirely. The force sends him skidding back, eyes widening in shock.
Bayonetta lets out a sultry chuckle, resting a hand on her hip. "Now, that is interesting." She raises both guns and unloads a flurry of shots, each one curving, bending, and striking at impossible angles. Balder tries to weave between them, but every time he dodges, another bullet finds its way through his defenses, tearing into his form.
Snarling, he retaliates with another divine blast of light, engulfing the battlefield in radiant energy. The tower shakes, debris flying everywhere—And Bayonetta simply steps through it.
The light dissipates around her harmlessly, her hair flowing as if caught in a gentle breeze. Her smirk widens. "Oh, Balder, dear... It seems your tricks don't work on me anymore." Arto watches her with a wolfish grin. "There she is."
Balder grits his teeth, trying to comprehend what's happening. "How—?" Before he could speak the next word, a lipstick was pinned into his skull, ending his life immediately. As Balder falls down, Cereza is released and Bayonetta quickly catches the sleeping little one "Well, that's the end of it. So, how can we return this sleeping princess home?" Arto asks while stroking Cereza's hair
"You don't know? I thought you've gotten to the bottom of this" Bayonetta teases, Arto shakes his head "I knew his plan but how he went back in time brought her here is unknown to me" They both suddenly sense something on the debris. Coming closer, they see a gate brimming with power and it reacts right away to Bayonetta's watch. Bayonetta takes the watch out and shows it before the gate and it's opened, straight back to Cereza's bedroom. Bayonetta gently places Cereza down the bed, the half-asleep little girl mutters "Mummy...Daddy..." Bayonetta gently soothes her "No need to be afraid, little one. The nightmare is over. Everything was just a dream. You're a strong little girl. There is nothing you cannot overcome"
Bayonetta was about to stand up and leave, Cereza asked "Mummy...Did you find it, what were you looking for?" Bayonetta's voice softens "Yes, I found it. So don't worry anymore. You just need to keep your treasure safe too." Cereza's hand is placed on the watch tied around her neck by Bayonetta's ribbon and falls asleep. Bayonetta stands up and leaves, to go back to her time. Upon returning, she sees Arto is still there, waiting for her.
But suddenly, Bayonetta collapsed on the ground with crimson dark energy wraps around her. From behind Arto, a familiar figure appears, Balder, unharmed and is radiating blue energy "Shiftment in time, I assume?" Arto asks as he turns back to Balder who was walking towards them "You remembered?" he asked "Nope, just a wild guess, but I was right in the end. Your plan?"
"Indeed, it wasn't the woman named Bayonetta that I wanted. It was you as a child, Cereza, that I sought. For she was the one who saw the world through innocent eyes and she was the one who could give rise to a new history. She has awakened the Left Eye. It all worked out perfectly" his hand waves as Bayonetta floats towards him, but stopped by Arto "Your plan was nice and all, but you forgot to consider some variables" Arto pulls his sword out and faces Balder head on "Focus!" Arto yells as Balder was attacked by Jeanne in her white robe from behind, making him stagger.
Balder stumbles forward slightly, eyes narrowing as Jeanne gracefully lands behind him, her white robe fluttering in the air. She spins her guns before aiming them at him. "You talk too much, Balder. A flaw of all men who think themselves gods."
Arto grins, flipping his sword in hand. "Took you long enough, Jeanne. I was starting to think you wouldn't make it." Jeanne smirks. "And miss the grand finale? Not a chance." Arto takes out the sigils again and hands them to Jeanne "To end this quickly, I missed my last night's health condition update for my girlfriend, I need to make a call or else Balder wouldn't be the last thing I have to worry about"
Jeanne raises an eyebrow as she takes the sigils. "A girlfriend, huh? Didn't peg you for the type to be tied down, Arto." Arto lets out a chuckle, spinning his sword. "Tied down? Please. I just value my life, and trust me, missing that call is more dangerous than any divine lunatic trying to rewrite history."
Jeanne smirks, pressing the sigils onto her guns. The energy crackles around them, a strange but invigorating power coursing through her veins. She gives them a quick test spin, firing a shot toward Balder—one that tears through his defenses just like Bayonetta's had earlier.
Balder stumbles back, looking at the wound with confusion. "Impossible... That magic should not—" Arto interrupts with a smirk. "Yeah, yeah, 'should not be possible,' 'how dare you defy fate'—we've heard it all before. Get creative, old man."
With that said, Arto and Jeanne dash forward together, tearing through Balder's defense. With that said, Arto and Jeanne dash forward together, tearing through Balder's defense with the help of the sigils. Balder grits his teeth, activating his power over the Right Eye to attack, Balder's form shimmers with divine energy, the Right Eye of the World fully awakening. The sheer force of his presence distorts the space around them, golden sigils forming in the air as light-based attacks rain down like judgment itself.
"You are insects playing with forces beyond your comprehension," Balder declares, his voice layered with power. He raises his staff, unleashing a wave of radiant energy that threatens to consume everything in its path. Arto turns to Jeanne "Jeanne, buy me 10 seconds, this one is new, I need some time to update the sigils"
Jeanne scoffs, flipping her guns with a smirk. "Ten seconds? You owe me a drink for this." Without hesitation, she dashes forward, unleashing a storm of bullets infused with the sigils' power. Each shot rips through Balder's divine defenses, forcing him to shift his focus toward her. He swings his staff, summoning golden spears that rain down like judgment itself.
Jeanne moves like a blur, dodging between the deadly barrage, flipping and twisting midair with effortless grace. She lands on one of the spears mid-flight, launching herself directly at Balder. "Keep up, old man!" she taunts, firing a charged shot at his face.
Meanwhile, Arto kneels, gripping the sigils tightly as they pulse with energy. He closes his eyes, feeling the shifting flow of magic. "Damn, he's adapting... but two can play that game." He adjusts the inscriptions, his fingers tracing over the runes with precision.
Balder snarls, raising a hand. A golden vortex opens behind him, and from its depths, a massive divine blade swings down, aiming to cleave Jeanne in two. She dodges skillfully "Wolf knight, you're done?" she asks "Almost...5 more seconds"
Balder, enraged, channels a final, devastating attack—a blinding sphere of divine energy, threatening to erase everything in its radius. "Perish." Jeanne braces herself, but then—
"Done!" Arto stands up, slamming the sigils onto his sword and armor. His eyes flash as the power surges through him. He dashes forward with impossible speed, his blade cutting through the divine sphere like butter, dispersing the attack before it can explode.
"You never stop surprising me, Abyssgard" Jeanne smirks as she receives updated sigils from Arto and places them on her pistols "Well, what are we waiting for? Let's end this" Arto says as he dashes forward with Jeanne to put an end to Balder
Balder's eyes narrow as Arto and Jeanne charge at him, their weapons crackling with the overwhelming energy of the updated sigils. He slams his staff into the ground, golden chains erupting from the floor, seeking to ensnare them both.
Jeanne flips over the first wave, twisting midair as she fires a barrage of bullets, each shot carving through Balder's divine defenses. Meanwhile, Arto cleaves through the chains with his sword, his movements a blur of raw power and precision. "You dare defy fate?" Balder roars, summoning a colossal ethereal hand to crush them both.
"Yeah, yeah, we've heard it all before," Arto scoffs, leaping onto the spectral hand, running along its length before delivering a devastating downward slash. The entire construct shatters like glass, sending golden shards raining down.
Jeanne uses the falling debris to propel herself higher, gaining the perfect angle for her next move. She crosses her pistols, charging a shot infused with the sigil's energy. "Balder!" she calls out.
He barely turns before she pulls the trigger, the bullet piercing through his shoulder, sending divine energy spiraling from the wound. Balder staggers, gripping his staff tightly. "This is not... how it should be..."
"Sorry, but your script's been rewritten," Arto says, flipping his sword in his hand. "And this is the final act." Arto sends one clean slash across Balder's torso, ending his life once more. And while Jeanne comes to tend to Bayonetta, Arto remains behind and inspects the corpse of Balder, his hand hovering over Balder's right eye as his fingers start dancing.
Slowly, light blue essence comes out of his eye and forms a brilliant blue crystal "Right Eye of Light" Arto mutters as he holds the crystal in his palms before taking the gold from Balder's armor to make a ring with the Right Eye shining on it. Arto then whispers something to the ring "Don't you dare" as intricate runes are carved onto the inside of the ring
Arto comes to Bayonetta as she is now back on her feet "Took you long enough, my knight, Balder's dead body interested you that much~?" she teases. Arto smiles and gets down on one knee and presents to her the ring "When we first met, I knelt before you to inspect your heels to make an upgrade to your weapons, you said that next time I kneel on one knee before you, it would be more convincing with a ring...Now Bayonetta, Am I convincing enough?"
Bayonetta chuckles, a playful glint returning to her gaze as she places a hand on her hip. "I must admit, you certainly know how to make a moment dramatic. But tell me, Arto, is this truly a proposal... or just another one of your clever tricks?"
Arto answers "With the last Lumen Sage gone, the Right Eye will be left alone for human's greedy eyes, and considering its power, the chaos it can cause would be immense. That is why you, the intersection of light and dark, it was meant to be yours, Cereza, the only one worthy enough to wield it and smart enough to use it wisely. And lastly, gorgeous enough to match its beauty"
Bayonetta raises an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Oh? Flattery and logic in the same breath? You really do know how to charm a lady, my knight."Arto chuckles, tilting his head slightly. "It's not flattery if it's true. You're the only one who can keep the balance. And besides—" he steps closer, his voice lowering, "—I can't think of a better way to make sure this world stays in one piece... than by putting it in the hands of the one capable woman"
Bayonetta hums, twirling the ring between her fingers. "Tsk, such a smooth talker. But I suppose you do have a point." She glances down at the Right Eye embedded in the golden band, its brilliance reflecting in her gaze.
Then, with a deliberate slowness, she slips the ring onto the ring finger of her right hand "Don't get ahead of yourself, darling. While I appreciate the gesture, I'll need to get to know you better before we take any... bigger steps. But," she added, wiggling her fingers to show off the ring, "wearing this here means you're on my good side, and I don't intend to let you wander off anytime soon."
Arto chuckles, shaking his head. "Fair enough, my witch. I wouldn't expect you to make things that easy." He watches as the Right Eye gleams on her finger, fitting her perfectly—as if it had always belonged there.
Bayonetta smirks. "Oh, trust me, darling, the chase is half the fun." Jeanne comes to Arto "Stop with the flirting you two. As for you, Arto, don't you have a call to make, hmm~" she asks teasingly.
Arto's face loses color as he pulls out his phone "Oh, right, right, my daily health report" Arto shakily chooses Rias' number as he calls "Good day to you, my love...yes, yes, I was a little late...okay, really late, but I have a good excuse this time, I was fighting...yes, against a talkative bastard who likes playing god...yes, yes, I dealt with him with Bayonetta...Mhm~I'm getting better, but my immune system is still recovering so in 10 more days I could return to you...Yes, yes, I miss you too, my love..."
"Is that Rias I hear?" Bayonetta purrs into the phone "Bayonetta, glad to see you again, have you been taking good care of my dear knight?" Bayonetta smirks, leaning in even closer to Arto's phone, her voice dripping with amusement. "Oh, you know me, darling. I've been keeping him plenty busy. No time for mischief... well, maybe just a little."
Arto groans, gently pushing Bayonetta away. "You two are going to be the death of me," he mutters, though there's no real bite in his voice. On the other end, Rias chuckles. "That so? Well, I hope he hasn't been causing you too much trouble, Bayonetta." Bayonetta hums, glancing at Arto with a teasing smile. "Oh, he's been quite the help. Even got down on one knee for me."
A moment of silence. Then—"...Excuse me?" Rias' voice is dangerously sweet. Bayonetta takes this chance as she turns on the speaker of the phone "Rias dear, let me ask you something, Arto here is your fiance, right?" "He will be, but not now, he currently has only one official fiancee and that is Sona Sitri, I will be his fiancee once I'm done winning the Rating Game against Riser Phenex to free myself in a few weeks from now. All in all, Arto isn't my fiance at present"
Bayonetta nodded. "I see. This sweet girl Sona hasn't received an engagement ring from Arto, yes?" Rias' voice gets curious "No, what are you talking about?" Bayonetta smirks, twirling a lock of her hair between her fingers. "Well, my dear Rias, if Sona hasn't received a ring yet, and I happen to be wearing one... what does that make me, hmm~?" There's a brief silence on the other end of the call. Then—
"Arto." Arto tenses up. "Y-Yes, my love?" Arto tenses up"Are you seriously telling me that Bayonetta is the first woman you've given a ring to?" Arto clears his throat, trying to think of the best way to dig himself out of this grave Bayonetta just dropped him into. "Uh... okay, let's clear this up real quick before I end up in more trouble than Balder. It wasn't a proposal. I was—uh—securing the Right Eye of Light for safekeeping. And what better way to keep it safe than turning it into a ring for someone who can actually handle its power? You know, the responsible thing to do."
Bayonetta hums, admiring the ring on her finger. "Mmm, and he did say I was the most beautiful one to match it. Quite the smooth talker, isn't he?" Jeanne covers her mouth, barely holding back her laughter. "Oh, this is gold. Keep going." Rias, on the other end, lets out a sigh. "Uhuh, I see, what you did was understandable, but I don't understand the part when you got on one knee to give it to her, what were you trying to accomplish by doing that? And don't tell me you don't know what that pose implies, you're a smart ass mage scientist, and I can't imagine you not knowing the meaning of such gesture"
Arto feels the walls closing in around him. He knows there's no escape from this one. "Okay, okay, I admit—it looked bad, really bad. But I swear, there was no romantic intent behind it! I was just trying to mess with her, to take her off guard with some dramatic gestures, but it seems she once again used it against me"
Bayonetta smirks, twirling her ring around her finger. "Mmm~ Could've fooled me. You even recited a lovely little speech about how it was meant for me. Quite the moment, wouldn't you say, Jeanne?" Jeanne, still grinning, nods. "Oh, absolutely. The passion, the drama, the theatrics—you should've seen his face, Rias. He was so into it."
Rias sighs again, but there's a distinct sharpness in her tone now. "Arto... You do realize that if someone were to witness this, they'd think you just proposed to another woman before your actual fiancées, right?" Arto hesitates. "...When you put it like that, it does sound a little—" "A little what, Arto?" Rias asks sweetly. "A little... very bad?" "Good boy. Now, I should be mad, but since I love you, I'll be merciful. Here's what's going to happen."
Rias clears her voice "Your harem's council will know about this, meaning Robin will know about this, Albedo will know about this and of course, Nami, Grayfia and Akeno will know about this as well, what they will do with you will depend on them, and you know how strict Grayfia and Robin or how jealous and fiery Albedo can be" Arto's blood runs cold hearing this
"As for you, Bayonetta" Rias directs her voice to the raven haired witch "Yes, dear?" Bayonetta answers with a coo "You're free to join us in Arto's harem if you like, considering how far Arto went for you, I can tell that he likes you a lot. So if you ever decide to settle down, a place here will always be opened for you" Rias firmly sends out an invitation for the Umbra Witch
Bayonetta blinks, momentarily caught off guard by Rias' unexpected offer. Then, slowly, her lips curl into a sultry smirk. "My, my, such a generous invitation. You really are full of surprises, aren't you, dear?" She twirls a lock of hair between her fingers, her crimson gaze flicking toward Arto, who looks like he's experiencing every stage of grief at once.
"I must say, I do enjoy a good bit of chaos... and your knight here is quite entertaining." Bayonetta leans in slightly, her voice dripping with mischief. "But, I wonder, darling Rias... could your little harem handle me?" Rias hums thoughtfully. "Hmm~ I suppose handling you wouldn't be quite the challenge for us, having a new sister in the harem has always been a great experience. We don't just love Arto, you know~You'll see how intimate the women can be in our private time~" Rias purrs through the phone.
Bayonetta chuckles, stepping closer to Arto, running a gloved finger down his chest. "Oh, now that does sound tempting. Tell me, Arto, how ever did you manage to gather such a bold collection of women? You must have quite the silver tongue." Arto answers "I don't, they manage on their own, they are all smart, they know how things should go to ensure happiness for themselves and for me"
Bayonetta hums. "I suppose I shall consider this invitation, but for now—" She holds up her hand, admiring the Right Eye of Light on her finger, the gem gleaming mischievously, "—I'll enjoy being the one with his first ring. Such a special little prize, wouldn't you agree?"
Rias chuckles. "Well, happy for you, Bayonetta, remember, a place will always be opened for you. But for now, I have to go, some new peerage members need my help" Rias hangs up. Bayonetta twirls the ring on her finger, smirking as she watches Arto exhale in relief. "My, my, you looked quite tense, darling. Were you afraid your little harem would drag you into the abyss for your sweet gesture?"
Bayonetta watches as the call ends, her smirk never wavering. She twirls a lock of her raven hair, letting out a playful hum. "Well, well, Arto, it seems your life is never short of entertainment. A harem of powerful women, all with their eyes on you... My, how do you ever find time to breathe?" Arto exhales, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I always find space to breathe, because I consider their so called annoyance care and love, they always look out for me, ensuring my safety and well-being, that something I have never found in my past life, so now, I appreciate what they do for me rather than complaining about it"
Bayonetta's smirk softens ever so slightly, her crimson gaze studying him with newfound interest. "Oh? A sentimental side to you, Arto? Now that is unexpected." Her expression is playful yet thoughtful. "So tell me, my knight, what's next for you? Surely you're not just going to run off now that you've given me this lovely little gift." She raises her hand, letting the Right Eye gleam in the light. "You know exactly what...Oh, right, time jet-lag"
"What do you mean by that, Arto?" Bayonetta asks, Arto chuckles, "You just altered the timeline by meeting your younger self and made her admire...herself in the future, no wonder you're so full of yourself" Arto chuckles "With that pulled off, it will take a few moments for you to realize that you're at a different position than the witch I pulled out from that lake. Let's start enlightening you 2 with the reason why I'm here. Jeanne, let's start with the talk we had at the cafe where we first met" Arto turns to Jeanne
"Oh, right, about opening a fashion brand of our own" Jeanne answers as she looks at Bayonetta, the witch is just standing there idly "Well, she is processing the information, just a little bit of time would be enough to bring her back" After a few blinks, Bayonetta goes back to her usual self "Ohh~Right, how can I forget? Umbra" Jeanne nodded "Yes, Umbra, our new fashion brand, but we are in quite a difficult spot since we can't take care of the brand all the time because of the angels always violating our lives, especially our shows, causing the business to almost collapse many times"
Bayonetta hums, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Mmm, yes, it was such a dreadful inconvenience, having celestial pests ruin our grand debut. Hardly the glamorous empire we envisioned, Jeanne."
Jeanne sighs, arms crossed. "Tell me about it. Every time we gain momentum, some divine nuisance decides to drop in uninvited. If it weren't for me cleaning up the mess, we would've had to shut the whole thing down ages ago. Now back to you, Arto, you said you have a solution for us, right?"
Arto hums "Mhm~I do, here it is" Arto hands out a crest "Gremory devil clan?" Bayonetta pushes her glasses up, Jeanne looks at Arto "Wait, you don't mean..." "Yeah, be in the clan's service, and everything will be solved"
"Elaborate" Bayonetta asks warily, Arto steps forwards "This crest will turn your home, your office, your company's headquarters into zones under Gremory's protection, no angels would dare enter your ground. Next, being in service of Gremory means you have the chance to access the enormous wealth of the clan to expand your business. Your Umbra fashion brand will also be financially managed by Abyga Ltd, a financial managing firm that will ensure your stability in finance and allow you 2 to focus everything on making the best attire this world has ever seen. Lastly, you'll have me on your side, I have a Fabric Lab that can turn any wild dream of yours into reality, creating fabric that outshined everything else that has on the market, exclusively for you"
Arto taps the crest as it flares up with enormous power "You Umbra Witches have contracted demonic beasts, right?" Jeanne and Bayonetta nod "This crest and prevent your soul from being taken by them, relieving you from angel hunting duty to feed them. The crest will bind your contracted beast, making them behave and reminds them not to go against their master. One more thing, whenever your soul was dragged to Hell by any mean, the crest will lead your soul back to Gremory domain where you will be returned to your body by specialized people of the clan"
Bayonetta and Jeanne exchange glances, the weight of Arto's offer settling between them. Jeanne crosses her arms, her expression thoughtful. "It all sounds too good to be true. Financial backing, angel-free zones, and a way to bypass our contracts with demons? What's the catch, Arto?"
He smirks "You're talking to the future husband of the direct heiress of the Gremory clan, I have a close relationship with the Lord and Lady of the household, they are my parents-in-law after all. We can talk things out, but some benefits for the clan must also be met for the deal to work and that's where your style come into the scene"
"How so?" Jeanne asks "Look, your battling attires, comfortable, strong, resilient, durable and most importantly, stylish" Arto smirks "You think you can do the same for Gremory's military force?" Bayonetta raises an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Mmm, dressing up an entire devil clan's army? Now that is an interesting proposition. You do realize, darling, that we don't just make fashion—we are fashion."
Jeanne nods, arms still crossed but clearly intrigued. "If we're going to put our brand name on something, it has to be the best. We're not dressing some ragtag mercenaries—we'd be redefining battlefield fashion." Arto chuckles. "That's exactly what I'm counting on. Gremory forces need gear that's not just battle-ready, but also elegant, intimidating, and worthy of their status. Who better to handle that than the Umbra Witches themselves?"
Jeanne taps her chin. "Tactical attire with demonic flair... reinforced for combat... flexible for movement... oh, I like where this is going." Bayonetta grins. "Mmm~ And with your fabric lab, we could push the limits of what's possible. We're not just making uniforms, Arto. We're crafting legends."
Arto nods. "Exactly. Think about it—your designs will be worn by an elite force, making them walking embodiments of power and style. That exposure alone will skyrocket Umbra's reputation." Jeanne and Bayonetta exchange another glance, this time with something far more dangerous—a shared excitement. Jeanne finally smirks. "You've got yourself a deal, Arto."
"That's only the first part of the deal, the military attire is only the stepping stone for something more, refined, sophisticated, unique" Arto says slowly "The attire for the soldiers can only prove that you're capable, this will draw devil clans in to see what you can pull off, once that is done, there will be more orders from other clans, but that's mass production, not much else to do since what you make would last for a long time based on your skills and my tech. That's when the second part of the job comes in" Bayonetta and Jeanne raise their brows, clearly intrigued.
"Do tell us, Arto" Bayonetta steps closer to Arto and leans closer "That's the part where you participate in crafting out of this world's outfits for devil nobles, those who have more than enough to pay for your creativity and artistry" Bayonetta hums, her smirk deepening as she presses a gloved finger against Arto's chest. "Oh~? Now that is a bold escalation, darling. Dressing the aristocracy of the underworld? You certainly know how to keep things interesting."
Jeanne crosses her arms, tapping a finger against her elbow. "Tailoring for devils with extravagant tastes means crafting garments unlike anything seen before. Power, status, luxury—it all needs to be woven into every thread."
Arto nods, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Exactly. The military attire proves your skill, but the noble fashion? That's where your artistry shines. But this is a high stake work, the devils have superhuman senses, even a smallest flaw like a slight misplaced stitch could never escape their scrutinize, they pay handsomely for perfection and that's what they want to get"
Bayonetta chuckles, tilting her head slightly as her crimson eyes glimmer with intrigue. "Oh, darling, you make it sound like we're amateurs. Perfection is what we do." She flicks her wrist, summoning a thin strand of hair that twists into the shape of an intricate lace pattern before vanishing in a wisp of magic. "Flawless craftsmanship is second nature to us."
Jeanne smirks, nodding. "But it does mean we'll have to push ourselves beyond the usual boundaries. No simple silks or enchanted fabrics—the nobility will expect garments that are as much a display of power as they are fashion."
Arto grins. "And that's where my Fabric Lab comes in. With my resources, we can engineer materials that do more than look good. Self-repairing fabric, magic-amplifying weaves, cloth that can resist divine interference—hell, even attire that adapts to the wearer's mood and magic." He gestures animatedly, excitement evident in his voice. "Imagine a noble walking into a gathering, their suit or dress subtly shifting in response to the atmosphere, colors and patterns flowing like a living masterpiece. Or an outfit that enhances their demonic energy, making them appear even more intimidating to rivals. You two design the style; I make sure it surpasses all expectations."
Jeanne exhales, impressed. "You really have thought this through, haven't you?" Arto shrugs. "I am a scientist. I don't deal in half-measures."
Bayonetta hums, tapping a gloved finger against her lips. "Mmm~ a most compelling proposal, indeed. But tell me, Arto, what's the real reason you're so invested in this?" Her gaze sharpens slightly, a knowing glint in her eye. "Surely, it isn't just about seeing us dazzle the underworld."
Arto chuckles, shaking his head "You got me, there are indeed benefits for Gremory clan in this. Even so, I need to tell you that this is just an extra mission, it's on you whether to do it or not, because at the end of the day, what matters more is your reputation with the clients"
"Just spill it out, dear" Bayonetta says "Alright, here is the thing. Once you've built the reputation and gained the favor from you clients, they would let their guard down around you–their beloved tailors, and that's when you listen"
"I see, you want us to dress them while undressing their secrets?" Jeanne asks with a smirk "Not necessarily, just need to listen and gather what you can, I won't force you to exploit everything, just enough to make them not notice what they said, or so fleeting they don't care. That's why I asked you to be genuine and treat this mission like it doesn't exist, those devils are no less smart and cunning as you 2, so a wrong word could expose you and bring down your reputation with them"
Arto exhales "That's why I asked you to be genuine and treat this mission like some extra work, those noble devils are no less smart and cunning as you 2, so a wrong word could expose you and bring down your reputation with them, but if you have enough trust, you can place a few words in their stream of thought, having them spilling out more. But again, don't focus on it, focus on crafting the most exquisite robes this world has ever seen with your talent"
Bayonetta chuckles, twirling a lock of her raven hair between her fingers. "Oh, darling, you make it sound as if this is our first time playing a game of intrigue." Her crimson eyes gleam with amusement. "We're witches, after all. We've been weaving spells and pulling strings long before you were even a twinkle in the universe's eye."
Jeanne crosses her arms, nodding. "He's right about one thing, though. If we make it obvious, we lose everything. The devils respect power, and reputation is power. If we gain their favor through our craft, they'll never suspect we're listening." She smirks. "And let's be honest, nobles love to talk. Give them the right setting, the right flattery, and they'll spill more than they realize."
Arto grins, clearly pleased. "That's the idea. I'm not asking you to be spies—just... keen listeners with excellent fashion sense."
Bayonetta hums, feigning deep thought. "Mmm, so not only do we get to shape the Underworld's elite with our designs, but we also gain insight into their little schemes? How delicious." She taps a finger against her lips, then smirks. "And, should a particularly tedious client cross us, well... fashion trends do change. A slight misstep in design could ruin anyone's social standing."
Jeanne chuckles. "Subtle sabotage? How very you." Arto shakes his head, amused. "I knew you'd enjoy this. But remember, the goal isn't to start wars—it's to position yourselves as indispensable. When the Underworld sees Umbra as the peak of luxury and influence, no one will dare move against you."
Bayonetta extends a gloved hand, palm up. "Darling, you had me at 'exquisite robes.'" Jeanne smirks and places her hand over Bayonetta's. "Looks like we have a deal."
Arto clasps his hand over theirs, sealing the agreement. "Then let's make the devils beg for our designs." Arto then turns to leave "That's the general idea of what's going to happen, details will be discussed in the future between you 2 and the 2 heads of Gremory clan, Lady Venelana and Lord Zeoticus. About the crest, keep it and enjoy your first morning waking up without angels disturbing you. But never talk about it with your clients, you will operate the furthest from the clan, having the least connection with Gremory, while that means the clan will not disturb your work, they can't protect you explicitly either. So tread this runway carefully"
Bayonetta rolls the crest between her fingers, watching its glow with an amused smirk. "Oh, darling, walking a fine line is what we do best. A little mystery, a little danger—it only makes the game more thrilling."
Jeanne nods, slipping the crest into her coat. "We'll keep our distance, maintain our independence. The less they suspect our ties, the more valuable we become in their eyes." She exhales, already considering the future. "This is bigger than just making clothes. It's about influence."
Arto turns slightly, glancing over his shoulder. "Exactly. And if you play it right, you won't just be tailors. You'll be architects of prestige in the Underworld."
Bayonetta chuckles. "How delightful. But before you leave, dear, there is something I want to ask you, what are the sigils you gave us when fighting Balder?"
Arto opens his mouth "Oh, right, forgot about that, do you like it?" He asks, Jeanne takes a look the sigil on her gun "Of course we love it, because of it Balder's light magic was reduced to mere flashlights, can't help but being curious about these sigils"
"That's what I call Counter-spell, my ultimate weapon against magic itself, it operates the exact opposite way to magic, it dissolves spells into mana flows and replenishes the user, extremely useful against magic using opponents, magical barriers and seals. Here, let me show you" Arto approaches Bayonetta and takes a sigil off her pistol and taps it lightly, the gray sigil flares up and expands into many gray circles with the structure similar to that of spells.
"Here are the Counter-spells, each one counters a spell of Balder, making his attacks useless and his defenses barely there" Bayonetta watches the intricate sigils expand with an impressed hum. "My, my, Arto, you do have a habit of surprising us. A weapon that turns magic into mere smoke and mirrors? Quite the handy little trick."
Jeanne leans in, studying the counter-spells with sharp interest. "And here I thought it was just some clever enchantment. This is precision—layered, calculated. You weren't just weakening Balder; you were dissecting his magic in real time."
Arto smirks, tapping the sigil again, making the circles shrink back into their dormant form. "Exactly. Every spell follows rules, patterns—no matter how powerful. My Counter-spell system recognizes and disrupts those patterns before they fully form. It doesn't block magic; it undoes it, stripping it down to raw mana before it can do harm."
Bayonetta twirls her pistol, letting the sigil settle back onto it. "Mmm~ A delightful little cheat against those who fancy themselves untouchable. I do love the idea of making angels—and devils—rethink their invincibility."
"Damn right, but each Counter-spell can only counter one specific spell, want to have more? Wait for me to hand it to you because I'm not in the mood for teaching right now" Arto then turns back to them "Well, goodbye for now, Bayonetta, Jeanne. I know where to find you 2 already, so when there are new updates about our deal, I'll tell you personally" With that said, the Abyssgard disappears, leaving Bayonetta and Jeanne behind.
Bayonetta watches as Arto vanishes, a smirk still playing on her lips. "Mmm~ A man of mystery till the very end. What a business partner."
Jeanne exhales, slipping her pistols back into their holsters. "Partner, huh? He's certainly making things interesting. A devil-clan-backed fashion empire, military contracts, and now anti-magic sigils that can make even Balder's spells crumble?" She shakes her head. "I almost feel spoiled."
Bayonetta chuckles, stretching her arms before adjusting her glasses. "Oh, don't be modest, dear. We deserve a little indulgence, don't we?" Jeanne scoffs. "Indulgence? More like a high-stakes balancing act. If this all goes well, Umbra could become more than we ever imagined. But if we misstep..."
Bayonetta hums, twirling a lock of her raven hair. "Then we'll simply do what we do best—outmaneuver, outshine, and outgun anyone foolish enough to stand in our way." She takes one last glance at the glowing sigil on her glove before turning to Jeanne with a confident smirk. "Now then, darling, shall we?"
The 2 witches also disappear from the top of Ithavoll Building, preparing for what to come.
Notes:
A/N: Bayonetta and Jeanne has joined the crew
Chapter 33: The tomb
Summary:
Albedo's adventure into a whole new world
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Right after Arto's departure to Vigrid
Robin sighs as she lays on the bed in Arto's room with the other women in his harem "He's only back for a month and now he is gone again" Rias complains as she rolls around soft bed, unable to sleep "Indeed, he left just a few hours ago and now I start missing him already" Akeno follows Rias in the longing line as she hugs Robin tightly around her waist.
"I know it's his own healing, but still..." Albedo sighs as she hugs the dakimakura with Arto's image on it. "We have to let him go, or else his health will get worse, but this will be the last time we let him go like this" Robin exclaims as she opens a book to ease her own longing.
After a while, Grayfia and Nami join the women in bed, Albedo quickly pulls Grayfia down and embraces her tightly and buries her face in the head maid's chest like how she usually hugs Arto, Grayfia sighs and hugs the succubus back "I know you miss him, I miss him too, so sleep and go meet Arto in your dream" Grayfia gently pats Albedo's back while running her other hand over the succubus' hair, she hums a light melody infused with magic to drive Albedo sleep.
"You've gotten used to this now, haven't you, Grayfia?" Rias looks over the sleeping succubus. Grayfia gives a small, knowing smile as she continues to stroke Albedo's hair. "Master entrusted me with the mission to take good care of everyone in this house when he was gone, so I'll carry out his order with all my ability. But still, it's not the same without him here"
"Maybe next time, we shouldn't let him leave alone." Robin said as she flipped a page in her book though her focus isn't on the words. "You know how busy we all are at the moment" Nami said as she hugs Rias "Let's not mention Rias, Akeno, Grayfia, Sona, and Albedo, they are all demonic creatures, they can't set their foot on Vigrid due to the connection between that place and Heaven"
Nami analyzes "That leaves only me, you and Erza could accompany him, but you are managing the whole simulation room and countless of Arto's researches, I have the newly launched Abyga Ltd to mind and run with tons of work regarding Sitri's hospital over us, not to mention my research with INA. And Erza has disappeared into the simulation room for the training program Arto gave her before he left. Even if we want to, we can't, Robin"
Robin sighs, closing her book and resting it on her stomach. "I know, Nami. I was just... wishing, I suppose." Her gaze drifts to the ceiling, frustration evident in her expression. "Even though we all have our own responsibilities, it doesn't change the fact that it feels wrong for him to go alone, you know how much he hates being alone"
Grayfia nods solemnly, her fingers still running through Albedo's raven hair. "That's true. No matter how strong he is, no matter how capable... Arto has always despised loneliness. It haunted him in his past life, and even now, when he has all of us, he still carries that shadow."
Akeno's expression softens as she hugs Robin a little tighter. "That's why he keeps us around to ease his loneliness. And even if without us, Arto will always find new connections and companions to make himself feel less lonely"
Robin smiles faintly, a bittersweet expression crossing her face. "I know. He's the type to always find someone to share his burdens with, even if he doesn't ask for help. I just... wish we could be there for him more. He deserves to feel supported, not just constantly being the one holding everything together."
Nami leans back against the bedpost, her fingers tapping lightly against her chin. "Arto is... different. He doesn't let his loneliness define him. He's always pushing forward, even when we're not around. But you're right—he shouldn't have to do everything by himself. It's just... the way he works, you know?" She looks at the others. "But the more we strengthen everything here, the more we can ensure he's not carrying everything on his shoulders alone. This house, the businesses, everything we've built for him—it's all part of supporting him."
Rias nods, sitting up with a smirk. "And when he comes back, we'll show him how much we've done to make sure he doesn't have to go through everything alone again. We'll make it so his return will be a victory, one where he gets the chance to relax... even just a little."
Akeno chuckles, her voice soft yet teasing. "Oh, I'm sure he'll find a way to escape, even if it's just for a moment. But let him try. We'll have our own plans for him when he gets back."
Robin chuckles, the tension in her body easing a bit. "I think Arto would appreciate that. A little push here and there won't hurt."
Grayfia, still stroking Albedo's hair, looks up from her gentle task and speaks calmly. "He'll return to us, eventually. And when he does, he'll know we've got everything under control. He'll see we didn't let his absence hinder our progress."
Nami nods, a determined expression on her face. "Exactly. We'll be ready for whatever he throws at us next. And when that time comes, we'll make sure we're by his side, in ways we couldn't before."
With that said, the ladies of the house go to sleep, with Nami hugging Rias, Robin hugging Akeno and Grayfia tending to Albedo.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Albedo looking for chibi Arto)
Albedo POV
I wake up in the morning to see everyone has left, a night without my beloved master Arto has never been easy, I have gotten used to his warmth and love, not having him here with me is devastating, Robin warned me about Vigrid, city with immense holy influences, my mind knows that I can't be there, but my heart just wants to take off right now to that damn city to be with my beloved Arto.
I move to the kitchen to see Grayfia is washing the dishes "Good morning, Grayfia" I say to grab her attention, Grayfia turns back to me "Good day to you, Albedo, how are you feeling?"
I sigh, running a hand through my midnight-black hair. "Restless, as expected," I admit, leaning against the counter. "Every second without him feels like an eternity. It's unbearable, Grayfia."
Grayfia dries her hands on a towel, offering me a sympathetic look. "We all feel his absence, Albedo. But we must trust in him. He will return." She comes to me as we share an affectionate kiss before she leads me to the dining table where my breakfast is ready and hot. "Now, you have to stay healthy for yourself, for us and for him. Eat up"
I sniff the food, the fragrance is heavenly like usual with the warm steam flocking my nose, but even so, it's not the same without him "I know. But knowing doesn't make it easier." My golden eyes flicker with frustration before softening. "You seem to be holding up well."
A small, knowing smile plays on Grayfia's lips. "I have my duties to focus on. That helps. I have this whole mansion to manage, not to mention some shared duties with Robin in the lab, I never have my mind running. But you are different, you're Arto's secretary, your work and life revolve around him and he is not home, so I can get why you're upset"
The stepping sound from the basement gets my attention and the next moment, Nami appears from the basement when I was eating "Albedo, there you are, are you free right now?" She asks eagerly, it doesn't look like she would take no for an answer "Yes, I am, what's the matter? I thought you're at Abyga managing business"
Nami shrugs it off "Don't worry, I can run my company from afar, I mean, would it be weird for a high school student to run a company like that?" She has a point, Nami lied about her age to go to school with Arto and since she looks so young, people never ask about her true age, and if they know she is the head of a financial managing firm, the whole school would explode "I see, then what do you have for me?"
"I want you to be my test subject" Nami says proudly "Your...what!?" I blink, staring at Nami as if she had just grown another head. "You better explain yourself before I start thinking you're trying to use me for some mad experiment."
Nami chuckles, crossing her arms. "Oh, don't be so dramatic. It's nothing dangerous. I've been refining my INA. And now I need to test the filtering function to locate worlds and dimension, and I want to start with you, this will help me gather a lot of intel about the system I am working on, how accurate it is how I can refine it further so that we can reach a future where we can find anything in the sea of worlds only be inserting some words."
"And you need me for this because...?" Nami smirks. "Because you're the perfect candidate. Your magical signature is unique yet stable, and you have a strong enough will to handle interdimensional travel without losing yourself in the process. Plus, let's be honest—if this works, you'll get a distraction from moping around all day missing Arto."
"I do not mope" I cross my arms angrily "And I can feel you mocking me from behind Grayfia, stop that smile" Nami shrugs. "Call it whatever you want. The point is, this experiment gives you a purpose while he's gone. I'll be using your magical signature to locate a world where someone with the same energy exists. If this works, you'll get to explore another world and interact with... well, essentially another you—or at least someone close enough to be considered your counterpart."
I tap my fingers against my arm. The idea is absurd, yet undeniably intriguing. "And you're sure this won't... I don't know, rip me apart and scatter my essence across the void?" Nami waves a hand dismissively. "Pfft, please. There is nothing to worry about, it will just be like last time we travel to another world with just an extra step, and the destination is more specific"
I narrow my eyes at Nami, considering her words carefully. "So, you're saying this is simply an improved version of our previous interdimensional travel, but now with a targeted destination based on magical signatures?"
Nami nods confidently. "Exactly. The system filters through dimensional layers to locate a world where an entity with a nearly identical magical signature exists. The process should be smooth, with minimal risk, as long as we calibrate everything correctly."
I exhale, my analytical side taking over. "And how do you ensure stability upon arrival? If my signature is linked to another entity in that world, wouldn't that create interference?"
Nami shakes her head. "No, the algorithm accounts for that. It identifies the matching signature but adjusts the arrival point to prevent direct overlap. You'll be near the counterpart but won't replace or disrupt them."
Grayfia, who has remained silent until now, finally speaks. "This does seem like a well-calculated plan, but do you have a contingency in case something goes wrong?"
Nami smirks. "Of course. I've integrated a failsafe into the INA. If any instability is detected, it will automatically trigger a recall function to bring Albedo back. Worst-case scenario, she'll feel a brief disorientation."
I cross my arms, assessing the situation one last time. The logic is sound, and if Nami's calculations hold, this experiment could prove invaluable. Plus, the opportunity to explore another world and gather useful data is preferable to waiting idly for Arto's return.
"...Very well," I say finally. "I will do it." Nami grins. "Great. Meet me in the lab in an hour for final calibrations."
Grayfia gives me a look of mild concern but says nothing. I offer her a reassuring nod before heading off to prepare. If this works as intended, it could open doors to further interdimensional exploration—something that may prove useful in the future.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Albedo packing her things for the trip in her magical vault, mostly Arto related stuffs)
3rd POV
Albedo steps into Sector 80: Interdimensional Portal of the simulation room, her golden eyes scanning the massive chamber. The air hums with arcane energy, the walls lined with glowing runes and swirling data streams projected from the consoles. At the center of it all, a large, circular gate crackles with unstable energy, flickering between countless possible destinations.
Robin stands beside a terminal, flipping through a book while adjusting dials with effortless precision. Nami, on the other hand, is grinning like a child with a new toy, rapidly inputting calculations on a floating holographic display.
"You're finally here," Nami says, barely looking up. "Took you long enough." Albedo crosses her arms. "I wasn't about to rush into some reckless experiment without at least making sure my affairs were in order. Now, tell me—how exactly does this work?"
Nami comes to Albedo "First, you step in here" she points at a pedestal "The system then will record you magical signature and send it to INA to calculate, after some time, a set of worlds will appear as the result of INA's calculation and we will get to choose which one we want to head to, then the portal will use the coordinates we chose to take us there, simple as that"
Albedo raises an eyebrow. "Simple, you say? You're dealing with interdimensional travel, Nami. Nothing about this is simple." Robin looks up from her book, adjusting her glasses. "She's not wrong. While the system itself is functional in theory, there are still variables we can't fully predict until we test it."
Albedo sighs. "Of course. And I assume I am the lucky one who gets to deal with these unpredictable variables firsthand?" Nami grins. "Exactly! That's why I chose you. You're tough enough to handle it, and let's be honest—you'd rather be doing something than sulking around the mansion missing Arto."
Albedo scowls but doesn't deny it. Instead, she steps onto the pedestal, feeling a faint hum of magic beneath her feet as the system begins to scan her. Robin types a few commands, and data streams race across the floating screens. "Magical signature recorded. INA is now filtering possible dimensions."
The massive circular gate at the center of the room flares to life, flickering through a chaotic storm of potential destinations. Albedo watches as the swirling energy settles into shifting images—glimpses of other worlds. Some seem eerily familiar, while others are completely alien. "There we go!" Nami claps her hands. "INA has found several worlds where a magical signature very close to yours exists. Now we just need to pick one." Albedo narrows her eyes at the swirling images. "How do we decide?"
Nami shrugs "I don't know, you decide, it's worlds with people who share similar magical signatures with you after all. INA can only stop at worlds now, we can't get to know the person it found other from their magical signature, but hey, we have some information about the world and you can choose where to land"
Albedo scans the floating projections, each displaying a brief summary of the worlds available. Some seem familiar, resembling her own, while others are drastically different—filled with strange landscapes, unknown creatures, or unusual civilizations.
Robin swipes her hand through the air, bringing up more detailed information. "INA has categorized the worlds based on their level of magic, technological advancement, and general hostility. Some worlds appear stable, while others are... less welcoming."
Albedo stands looking through the worlds to see a place which seems quite peaceful, a medieval world with kingdoms and magic, where powerful sorcerers and legendary beasts roam. "This seems to be a good one, I can spend some time here to explore peacefully"
"But don't you want some more challenge and thrill? I mean, a too peaceful place wouldn't keep you busy and you might just go back to sulking missing Arto again" Robin asks. Albedo huffs, crossing her arms. "I am not sulking."
Nami smirks. "You totally are."
Albedo glares at her before turning back to the floating projection of the medieval fantasy world. "I don't need a battlefield to stay occupied, Robin. A peaceful kingdom could provide valuable insight into how magic is structured and governed in different worlds. If my counterpart here is influential, I may even learn something useful to bring back."
Robin adjusts her glasses. "That's fair. But don't let your guard down—peaceful worlds can still hold hidden dangers." Nami grins. "And if you do get bored, just cause a little chaos. Nothing wakes a world up like an unexpected visitor with reality-warping magic."
Albedo rolls her eyes. "I will not be causing any unnecessary chaos, my beloved master Arto taught me to avoid conflict and always aim towards peaceful solutions. Well, if they don't insult him, I think I can do alright" She steps off the pedestal, her golden eyes fixed on the swirling portal. "Let's do this before I change my mind." Nami comes to Albedo to give her a bracelet "Failsafe with emergency recall and communication device, in case anything happens"
Albedo takes the bracelet from Nami, examining the sleek design. The band hums with faint energy, a subtle reminder of the advanced technology woven into its structure. She fastens it around her wrist and smirks.
"Always so prepared," Albedo comments, turning to Nami. "You act carefree, but deep down, you worry just as much as the rest of us." Nami rolls her eyes, but there's a hint of a smile playing at her lips. "Yeah, yeah. Just don't make me use it, alright? I don't want to deal with Arto's sulking either if something happens to you."
Robin presses a few commands into the console. "Calibrating portal... Locking onto coordinates... Energy output stable..." The massive gate surges with bright, shimmering light. On the other side, there is a vast grassfield welcoming Albedo. The succubus braces herself as she walks towards the portal. Nami gives Albedo a playful salute. "Safe travels, oh mighty demoness. Try not to terrify the locals too much."
Albedo smirks. "No promises." And with that, she steps into the portal, vanishing into the unknown world beyond.
On the other side of the portal, Albedo gracefully lands down the grassfield, she turns back to Nami and Robin who are still on the other side of the portal "How is everything there?" Albedo exhales "Everything is good, mana density is almost the same as our world, the air is fresh and the atmosphere is peaceful as expected, I can go on from here, you 2 can close the portal to save energy. I'll see you later"
Nami nods, her fingers hovering over the holographic controls. "Alright, Albedo. Just don't take too long, or we'll have to come looking for you." Robin adjusts her glasses, studying the readings on her screen. "Remember, observe first. We don't know how this world operates, and we don't want to startle your counterpart—assuming she even exists."
Albedo waves a hand dismissively, a smirk playing on her lips. "I understand, I understand. Now, off with you." She turns away from the portal, her long black hair flowing behind her.
With a flicker, the portal closes behind her. Now alone, Albedo takes a deep breath, gazing at the rolling hills and clear blue sky before her. The warmth of the sun kisses her skin, but instead of finding comfort, she feels only the familiar ache of missing her beloved master.
Albedo walks the grassland in anticipation, she doesn't know what she will encounter, but there is one thing she knows, she has a counterpart here and she might meet this person. Albedo looks at herself, she stands out too much with this white dress, raven wings and horns "Might need to change into something less to avoid attention, something....casual that fits this medieval time"
Albedo waves a hand, using her magic to alter her appearance. Her elegant white dress shifts into a more modest yet noble-looking outfit—a long-sleeved dark tunic with silver embroidery, a corset-like vest, and a flowing black skirt that reaches her ankles. She tucks her raven wings away with a concealment spell and adjusts her horns, reducing them into subtle, decorative ornaments in her hair. Her horns and wings are hidden under an illusion spell
"Much better," she mutters, checking her reflection in a small, conjured mirror. She still exudes an air of grace and nobility, but at least she won't immediately stand out as an outsider. Albedo calls her steed out through a summoning circle, a Bicorn she named Otra "Master's gift~" Albedo squeals as the horse appears before her.
It slowly approaches Albedo and licks her face lovingly. Albedo giggles softly as Otra nuzzles against her cheek, the warm, velvety touch of the creature's tongue sending a rare but welcome shiver down her spine. She strokes the majestic black beast's mane, her fingers running through the silky strands with affection. "You've missed me too, haven't you?" she coos, pressing her forehead against Otra's. The demonic steed lets out a soft snort in response, its glowing red eyes filled with loyalty.
After one last affectionate pat, Albedo hoists herself onto Otra's back with practiced ease. "Alright, let's go find out what this world has in store for us." With a firm grip on the reins, she gently nudges Otra forward. The majestic beast gallops across the open grasslands, its powerful hooves barely disturbing the tranquil beauty of the land. The wind rushes past Albedo's face, ruffling her concealed wings beneath her cloak. Despite the uncertainty ahead, a small smile lingers on her lips.
"Guess I'll explore a little before looking for my counterpart..." With that said, Albedo starts moving into the unknown land with Otra carrying her. The landscape slowly shifts from endless grasslands to rolling hills, where winding dirt paths connect scattered villages. Small farms dot the horizon, their golden fields swaying gently under the afternoon sun. Smoke curls lazily from chimneys, and the faint sounds of life—laughter, hammers on anvils, and the creaking of wagon wheels—reach her ears.
"Quite a peaceful place, I see" Albedo keeps moving on Otra along the land where there are not many people, only an endless grassland stretching to the horizon. Her mind starts driving back to Arto "I wish he could be here with me, we can enjoy ourselves in this peaceful land together," she murmurs, her golden eyes softening as she strokes Otra's mane absentmindedly. Even in a world untouched by the conflicts of her own, Arto's absence weighs heavily on her heart.
A gentle breeze brushes past her, carrying the faint scent of wildflowers and fresh earth. The rhythmic sound of Otra's hooves against the dirt path is soothing, almost meditative. Yet, deep down, Albedo knows that she cannot allow herself to get lost in longing. She has a mission—to explore, to learn, and perhaps, to find the one whose magical signature mirrors her own. "Can't let Nami tease me that I'm just here to sulk..." Albedo firms her mindset and she keeps going.
Until nightfall, Albedo reaches a dense forest, rides Otra going on the edge of the forest before her to inspect "This place is denser than I thought, not just the tree, the mana concentration as well, there must be something in this forest" Albedo then summons another companion of hers, a shadow eagle "Another of master's gifts~" she squeals again and the dark form of the eagle manifested on her arm, she gently rubs its dark feather and it replies by an affectionate nuzzle into her touch, its crimson eyes closed as it enjoys the comfort of its mistress' touch
"You missed me as well, didn't you, Tora?" Albedo coos as she touches the eagle before holding her arm up high "Inspect!" she raises her voice, the eagle immediately shoots up into the sky, its crimson eyes open wide to capture the forest from the air. Albedo watches as the shadow eagle disappears into the darkening sky, its silhouette blending seamlessly with the twilight. The creature's keen eyes will scout ahead, ensuring she doesn't walk blindly into danger.
She pats Otra's neck, feeling the beast's muscles tense slightly. The dense mana surrounding the forest puts both of them on edge. "Easy now," she murmurs, sensing that something unnatural lingers within these woods. She then casts a spell to give her the vision of the eagle she sent out. The forest was dense, there is nothing to argue about it, but when Tora was scouting the forest, it found something unexpected
Through Tora's eyes, Albedo sees a curious sight tucked away in the midst of the dense forest—a vast, circular clearing ringed by partially crumbling walls. Inside those walls stand concentric stone arches, each leading toward a central courtyard where a small temple-like structure sits quietly under the moonlight. A few lanterns glow at intervals along the arched pathways, casting dancing shadows on the worn stone floor. Despite its seemingly ancient condition, the site still radiates a gentle magical aura, as though it's been carefully maintained—or recently inhabited.
"Damn, the density of mana here is huge, like there are a more to this ruin than just the surface" Albedo thinks to herself as she orders Tora to move closer to see the place is kept hidden by magic and the isolation of the land
Albedo exhales softly, breaking the connection with Tora. "A hidden domain, huh?" she murmurs, patting Otra's neck to soothe the Bicorn's wariness. "Whatever's there, it's old... and possibly protected by powerful wards." She gives Tora an approving nod as the shadow eagle swoops back toward her, perching on her shoulder. "Good work," she whispers. "Stay close. This place might worth exploring"
Albedo rides Otra along the edge of the forest to the place Tora found. The dense mana continues to swirl around her, almost tangibly thickening the atmosphere. The trees part before her, and soon the ancient ruins come into full view—magnificent and eerie in its quiet solitude.
When she arrives, Albedo rides Otra along the circular wall of the place until she reaches the place where the hidden entrance is and taps onto it. The illusion immediately disappears, revealing an iron gate. She gets down from Otra and unsummons the Bicorn and the eagle to inspect the gate. "Interesting" she thinks as her hand rests on the cold metal of the gate. A strange sensation washes over Albedo. It is not just the thick mana pressing against her skin—it is something far deeper. Recognition.
The moment her fingers leave the cold metal, the very air around the place shifts. An unseen force ripples outward, and suddenly—The Iron Gate begins to open on its own. Slowly, deliberately, as if welcoming a master home. The movement is smooth, but there is something unnatural about it—no guards, no challenge, just silent acknowledgment. As if the tomb itself recognizes her.
"It opened for me like it recognized me, could it be..." Albedo thinks as she looks at the ruin opened before her "It seems this is my lucky day, my counterpart might be in here" she walks into the ruin for her quest. Albedo walks inside the structure as the gate behind her disappears, she walks the stone paved path to the main mausoleum in the center of the ruin.
Elsewhere...
A skeleton in a grand sorcerer's robes, flowing and deep black, embroidered with intricate golden patterns sitting on a throne receives a message "Lady Albedo has returned" by the system of the tomb "What was happening?" the skeleton asks and looks over to his side "What is happening indeed? It said that I have returned, but I'm right here...an error, perhaps?" a sultry voice of a woman rings out next to the living skeleton
"Maybe" the skeleton mutters skeptically while looking at the message sent by the defense system, then the skeleton makes an order "Show me the current state on the surface" the system changes immediately to the images of the surface level. There the skeleton and the woman next to him have to bend forward to look closely at what appeared before them.
Warily walking into the ruin is a woman who looks exactly like the woman standing in the throne room at the moment. A heavy silence falls over the throne room as the skeletal overlord and his overseer stare at the image before them. The woman walking into the ruins—her—bears the same face, the same golden eyes, the same elegance, the same aura and even then the same magical signature.
The woman's fingers tighten against the folds of her dress, her golden eyes narrowing as she watches her counterpart move cautiously through the ruins's surface level. The resemblance is uncanny—not just in appearance, but in the way she carries herself, the way she observes her surroundings with an analytical gaze.
The skeletal overlord, Ainz Ooal Gown, leans forward slightly, his crimson eyes glowing brighter with intrigue. "This is... unexpected, even when she hides her horns and wings with magic, she looks just like you."
The woman inhales slowly, reigning in her emotions. "Another me...? How is this possible?" Her voice is measured, but a trace of irritation lingers underneath. The very idea that another version of her exists, unbidden and unknown, stirs something deep within her—curiosity, caution, like she doesn't know this place at all.
The skeleton taps his bony fingers against the armrest of his throne. "She's not an illusion. The system recognizes her as you." He pauses. "But that doesn't mean she is on our side."
The winged lady straightens, eyes flashing with determination. "Shall I go to her, my lord?" the lord considers this, his mind calculating all possible outcomes. Another of his overseer... could she be from another world? Or something else entirely?
"Should I tell other guardians, lord Ainz?" Albedo asks with caution "...Not now Albedo, let her in, I want to know how she interacts with things and people here in Nazarick" the overlord finally says. "From the way she moves, I can tell she doesn't know anything about Nazarick. She may not even realize where she is, so she doesn't even try to pretend she is you. This is getting more and more interesting"
The true Overseer of Nazarick crosses her arms, a thoughtful frown marring her perfect features. "She truly does not know... if she were an imposter or a spy, she would at least try to blend in. But she doesn't even seem to recognize her own supposed home."
The overlord leans back in his throne, his skeletal fingers tapping idly against the armrest. "Precisely. If she were an enemy infiltrator, she would have taken more precautions. Yet she walks in as if she was a mere explorer. This suggests either ignorance... or sincerity."
Albedo's lips press into a thin line. The very idea of another her existing outside of Nazarick's absolute authority is unsettling. And yet, her lord's interest is piqued. That alone is enough for her to obey.
"Should I tell other guardians, lord Ainz?" Albedo asks with caution "No, let them interact with her, I want to see what sets her apart from you. Also, tell the Pleiades to greet her normally like how they do with you" Ainz answers while looking intently at the other Albedo walking into the center mausoleum
Albedo nods, though the idea of allowing her counterpart to roam freely within Nazarick without immediate containment does not sit well with her. However, she does not question Ainz's decision. Instead, she keeps her expression neutral and bows once more.
"As you command, Lord Ainz," she replies smoothly and starts to leave the place to deliver the lord's order to their Pleiades. But as she walks toward the chamber's exit, she can't help but glance once more at the scrying image of the intruder—her twin, yet not her. "What makes you different from me?" she wonders. And more importantly... "Why did Nazarick recognize you as Albedo?"
On the surface
Albedo glances sideways knowingly "I'm being watched, expected, better show them I came in peace and mean no harm" she walks in cautiously with utmost respect for everything in this ruin.
She can feel the presence of something—someone—watching her, but she does not react aggressively. Instead, she takes in her surroundings with admiration, trailing her gaze along the stonework and the carefully preserved artifacts.
"A tomb of great significance," she murmurs to herself, her voice soft but purposeful. "Whoever built this place valued it deeply." Albedo continues her journey warily while minding the people watching her. Albedo heads into the main mausoleum to see the deathly atmosphere of the place. She keeps wandering until a voice rings out from behind her, getting her attention.
"Welcome back, lady Albedo" Albedo turns back to see 2 strange women in maid outfit standing there
Albedo freezes for a fraction of a second before composing herself. "They recognize me?" Her golden eyes flick between the two women—one with glasses and an air of calm authority, the other a silent, almost mechanical presence.
She inclines her head slightly, masking her curiosity behind a composed smile. "Ah... It is good to be back," she responds smoothly, though inwardly, her mind races. "They called me Lady Albedo... so they truly believe I belong here."
The maid with the glasses bows slightly. "Shall we escort you further inside, my lady? The Supreme One will surely wish to see you." Albedo hesitates only briefly before nodding. "Yes, lead the way." With that said, 2 maid flank 2 sides of Albedo as they walk deeper into the tomb
As they were walking, Albedo secretly sends a magical signal ahead of her to map out the place, making sure she doesn't get suspected for not knowing the way by the maid.
"This place... it's enormous. A true multi-layered labyrinth" she notes as the information flows into her mind. The deeper they go, the denser the mana becomes, pressing against her skin like a living entity.
The maid with the glasses was the first one to ask "Forgive my curiosity my lady, but what kind of mission must you, our esteemed Overseer had to personally handle?"
"Overseer, that high?" Albedo keeps her composure, though internally, she weighs her response carefully. She doesn't know the full extent of her counterpart's role here, nor does she know how much these maids expect her to reveal.
She allows a small, knowing smile to cross her lips as she glances at the raven-haired maid "Indeed, there are certain matters that require my direct attention—ones that cannot be left in the hands of others. Our Lord entrusted me with something delicate, and I had to ensure it was handled personally. "
The robotic maid asks "So delicate and important that you needed to leave your Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown home?" Albedo doesn't look back at her nods "Yes, you know how much I value that ring, a gift from our lord, carrying them with me is risky, I really don't want them stolen or go missing on my mission, our lord wouldn't be happy"
Albedo lets out a light sigh, she doesn't know what ring the maid was talking about. But with this explanation, she might be able to trick them. The other maid nods in understanding, adjusting her glasses. "A wise precaution, Lady Albedo. Losing such a precious gift would indeed be unacceptable."
The question asker, however, tilts her head slightly, her glowing eyes flickering in an analytical manner. "Unusual. You never remove your ring. Your attachment to it is well-documented."
Albedo feels the weight of the conversation pressing in on her. "Damn, they really do know my counterpart well..." She maintains her serene expression, letting out a soft chuckle.
"That is exactly why I took extra precautions this time. There are always exceptions, even to my own habits. Surely, you wouldn't expect me to be careless on such an important mission, would you?"
She remains silent for a moment before giving a small nod. "Affirmative. Logical reasoning accepted." Albedo inwardly exhales in relief, though she remains cautious. These maids were sharp. One wrong move and they might notice the inconsistencies in her behavior.
She decides to shift the conversation. "Enough about my absence. Tell me, has anything of importance happened while I was away?" The maid with glasses straightens, placing a hand over her chest.
"Nothing that would require your immediate intervention, Lady Albedo. However, Lord Ainz remains in the throne room, and I assume you will wish to report to him personally in the Amphitheater."
"The what?"Albedo wonders as she keeps her expression neutral, but inside, her mind is racing. "So, this Lord Ainz is expecting me... I need to be careful". With a graceful nod, she replies, "Of course. Lead the way."
2 maids nod and lead Albedo deeper into the tomb, trespassing the traps and and dead end until they meet a female vampire of short stature, she has pale shiny skin, seductive crimson-red eyes, and fine facial features. Shalltear's silver hair is tied in a ponytail through a large ribbon on top of it all, allowing others a full view of her face.
The vampire girl wears a soft black evening dress with a big heavy skirt. Her upper body is dressed in a lace embellished ribbon and a short tailored jacket. Her hands are donned with long lace gloves, not exposing any bit of skin.
"Ahh, Albedo, I never thought I could see you around here" she comes to Albedo with a smuggling face, regal demeanor and a strange air of rivalry exudes from her. Albedo was taken aback for a moment, not knowing how to reply to her, but one of the maid starts speaking
"Good day to you, lady Shalltear, you see, lady Albedo here has just returned from a mission personally assigned by Lord Ainz, she left her ring of Ainz Ooal Gown behind so she is unable to teleport straight to lord Ainz. That's why we are using the other way to head to the Amphitheater for lady Albedo to report" the raven-haired maid informs Shalltear.
Shalltear quirks a delicate brow at the explanation, her crimson eyes narrowing ever so slightly as she studies Albedo with clear suspicion. "Oh? How unlike you, Albedo," she muses, crossing her arms over her chest. "Leaving behind such a precious gift from Lord Ainz? Tsk, tsk, how careless." A smug smirk creeps onto her lips. "Are you sure you're feeling alright? Not catching some kind of illness, are you?"
Albedo, maintaining her composed facade, lets out a light chuckle. "I appreciate your concern, Shalltear, but I assure you, I am in perfect condition." She tilts her head slightly, allowing a sly smile to form. "As for my ring, I value it too much to risk taking it with me on delicate assignments. Surely you understand the importance of safeguarding Lord Ainz's gifts, don't you?"
Shalltear clicks her tongue in annoyance but doesn't press further. Instead, she leans in slightly, eyes gleaming with mischief. "I suppose even you can be cautious. How surprising."
She straightens up with a dramatic sigh. "Well, since you're here, shall I accompany you to Lord Ainz? I'd hate for you to get lost after your long absence." Her smirk deepens, laced with mockery.
Albedo shakes her head "That won't be necessary. These 2 maids are more than capable of leading me to Lord Ainz." Albedo lets out a bitter smile in her mind, doesn't know their names so addressing them like that would make things less suspicious.
"Besides, this mission is classified, so I need to inform him personally". Shalltear smirks "Aww~Why brush me away like that, you're in the floors of mine after all, a little walk together wouldn't hurt, right? Besides, only our lord decides whether I get to hear or not. If he doesn't allow me to, then I'll leave, no one is hurt, isn't it?"
Shalltear then takes the position next to Albedo as they proceed their path forwards. Albedo keeps her expression neutral, but inside, she curses her luck. This Shalltear is persistent—far too eager to prod at her in ways she isn't fully prepared to counter yet. She can't outright refuse without drawing suspicion, but having this vampire walking beside her only increases the risk of slipping up.
She lets out a light chuckle, feigning amusement. "Very well, if you insist. A little company won't hurt." Shalltear grins triumphantly, her crimson eyes gleaming with mischief. "That's more like it~" she hums, stepping in sync with Albedo as they continue toward the Amphitheater.
The maids remain composed, walking slightly ahead, but Albedo doesn't miss the way that raven-haired one subtly adjusts her glasses—as if analyzing the interaction. "They're all watching me closely"... Albedo notes.
"You're always clinging to our lord, Albedo. It must have been nice having all the glorious light of our lord for yourself. Don't you think you should let others have a turn?" Shalltear turns to Albedo, trying to ignite the rivalry between them. But instead of thinking of the reply for Shalltear, Albedo thinks about the things that happened recently between her and her master, Arto Abyssgard, and without any thought, she speaks out.
"It hasn't always been nice and comfortable. Shalltear. Our master is always busy with his work, he can leave for some time, return and bury himself in work, then he will leave again. And while I was always there with him, there wasn't much bonding between us, and it was reduced to none when he leaves me behind and goes to deal with work outside" She sighs
"I have my own duty when he is gone, and I try to carry it out the best I could to make sure he has some time for me when he returns. Even outside of work, I prepare his bath, warm his bed, and I patiently wait for him to come and enjoy the comfort I prepared for him, but sometimes, he never came, buried in his work yet again." Albedo admits
Shalltear looks at Albedo in awe, she didn't expect her to be this...deep, but she makes no attempt in stopping Albedo "I know he was trying to make sure we have the best life, but in that effort, he sometimes forgets that we only need him and his presence, not sitting there, but interacting with us. Do you know how sad it is when you just stand there with him, but he didn't give you a glance because of how busy he is? Even when we talk, it's about work but nothing else"
Her mind drives back to the time she spent in the simulation room with Arto, 10 years of her silent devotion to him and his work, the project that almost killed both of them. That is where she saw the coldest Arto she has ever known, he was all professionalism as he worked day and night for 10 years straight along with her. The only interaction they had was him nodding to her work and his hours-long explanation of how the project would go.
"I know how tempting that position is, being his assistant, the one closest to him, but it's not all good when my work and emotions revolve around him, so when he is not around, it's not the same anymore. There aren't that many times I get to accompany him on his trips outside, he usually goes alone, leaving me behind. It's really lonely sometimes" Albedo doesn't stop.
"But if you want that position, you are free to try and claim, but know this, I will never leave this position, because only here I can express my love to him, my devotion to him, no matter what happen, I will always be here, waiting for him to come back to me, because I know, he will always come back to me, that faith is like my love, will never die" Albedo stops to look at Shalltear who has a weird look on her face.
"What?" Albedo herself blinks, realizing she had spoken without her usual measured control. "Damn it... that wasn't supposed to happen..." She had been thinking of her master, Arto Abyssgard—not this Lord Ainz they all revered. But in her effort to play along, she had let her true feelings slip out.
For a moment, she considers backtracking, dismissing her words as mere sentimentality. But then, Shalltear lets out a small chuckle—soft, amused, and... understanding?
"My, my, Albedo," Shalltear hums, folding her arms. "That was quite the heartfelt confession. I never thought I'd hear you speak so candidly about your frustrations." She tilts her head, a small smirk returning to her lips. "So even you, the ever-dutiful Albedo, have moments of doubt."
Albedo quickly schools her expression, masking the turmoil inside. She lets out a composed sigh, shaking her head. "It's not doubt. It's devotion."
Shalltear's eyes gleamed with something unreadable. "Devotion, huh?" Albedo meets her gaze, unwavering. "Yes. No matter how much distance separates us, my loyalty remains the same."
Shalltear watches her for another moment, then shrugs dramatically. "Well, I suppose I can't argue with that. But if our Lord ever decides to spend more time with me instead, don't expect me to give him back so easily~"
"You can try all you want, Shalltear, he is mine" Albedo shoves in some arrogant and a smirk to bring the atmosphere back as they take their path down to the Amphitheater
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Albedo sitting alone, waiting until chibi Arto comes to take her with him)
As they step into the grand Amphitheater, Albedo takes in her surroundings with cautious admiration. The vast space is illuminated by eerie, magical light, casting long shadows over the finely crafted stonework. The atmosphere is thick with power—silent, watchful, and expectant.
But they are not alone here, aside form Shalltear and 2 maids that accompany Albedo down here, there are more people who Albedo doesn't know, 2 small dark elves, one gigantic insect and an demon, all look really powerful in their own way
"I thought this is a personal report" Albedo turns to ask the raven-haired maid, she puts one hand on her chest "Lord Ainz has had a change in plan, he wants all the Guardians available to know the mission you went on"
Albedo suppresses a flicker of unease, maintaining her composed demeanor. "I see, then so be it" Before the lord arrives, the first one of the Guardians comes to Albedo, he is a demon wearing a orange suit, a pair of ground glasses and has a long tail "My, my, what kind of mission did our ever brilliant lord has given to you, Albedo? It must be of great importance. Care to share with us? Does it regard the coming invasion of Roble Holy Kingdom or is it the implementation of a new management system in Re-Estize?"
Albedo stiffens a little before the man "Just wait until the lord arrives, then you'll know, there is no need for a rush" she tries to buy time to stall her oblivion about this 'mission' she made up earlier. The demon chuckles, adjusting his glasses with a knowing smirk. "Ah, always so composed, Lady Albedo. I must say, your dedication to secrecy is commendable."
Albedo nods, keeping her expression neutral despite the tension coiling within her. "Roble Holy Kingdom? Re-Estize?" She tucks those names away for later, unsure of their significance but certain they are crucial.
The others observe in silence, their gazes weighing her every move. Shalltear, standing just a step away, crosses her arms with an amused smirk. The insectoid warrior remains as still as a statue, while the twin elves exchange a glance before whispering among themselves.
A heavy presence suddenly fills the room, and all turn toward the gazing booth.
Albedo can feel the magical pressure this person exudes, he is insanely powerful, especially magic wise. Then she notices he was looking at her, her body stiffens before him, she glances sideways to see all other Guardians have all knelt down with a hand over their heart. "Damn it, got carried away again"
Albedo quickly follows suit, lowering herself into a graceful kneel, mirroring the other Guardians. This must be Ainz Ooal Gown...
Her heart pounds as she keeps her head bowed, every instinct warning her to tread carefully. The sheer magical pressure radiating from him is overwhelming, suffocating even—far beyond anything she has ever encountered before.
"Rise," his voice echoes through the Amphitheater, deep and commanding.
In perfect unison, the Guardians stand. Albedo rises with them, maintaining her composed facade, but she feels his gaze lingering on her. But when she directs her gaze up to Ainz Ooal Gown, she sees her, her counterpart, standing right next to the lord of this tomb.
Albedo's breath catches for a fraction of a second, though she masks it well. "There she is... what I came to find."
The other Albedo looks exactly as she expected—golden eyes sharp with intelligence, raven-black hair cascading elegantly down her back, and clad in the same imposing yet regal attire. Their resemblance is perfect, yet there is an undeniable difference in presence.
The other Albedo's expression is unreadable, but her piercing gaze studies her intently, as if dissecting every minute detail. Ainz, too, remains silent, his glowing crimson eyes shifting between the two of them, gauging their reactions.
The Guardians look at what unfolded before them in awe "Ohoho~This is interesting" the demon smiles while adjusting his glasses, "Now there are 2 of them, great, this must be the end of the world" Shalltear groans in frustration seeing 2 identical Albedo.
"Wow, they are so alike, can you tell them apart, Mare" The dark elf in the suit nudging at the other one "I...I can't, they are so alike, even down to their magical signature...I don't think I can tell......" The reserved one weakly replies, the talkative one whispers into the other ear something "Wait, I can tell now..."
Meanwhile the insectoid warrior remains silent as he tries to process the situation. 2 Albedos look at each other intently before Ainz's voice break the silence between them "I see you're not surprised seeing your counterpart" Albedo under the arena answers "I don't, my lord, I came to find her after all, and now that I have found her, my quest is completed" she answers with her head low.
Ainz's crimson eyes flicker with curiosity. "You came to find her?" His voice is calm, but there is an undeniable weight behind his words. "Explain." The Albedo standing in the Amphitheater meets his gaze without hesitation. "Yes, my lord, let's start from my identity, my name is Albedo, identical to your Albedo over there. So for clarification, you can address me as Belado"
Ainz nods "Alright, Belado it is, please continue your explanation, why did you come here to find my Albedo?" he asks. Belado nods as she answers "Yes, my lord, I'm an Albedo who comes from another world, I came here today to test out something"
"And that is?" "Interdimensional Portal, my lord" Albedo answers Ainz's crimson eyes flicker with interest. "Interdimensional Portal, you say?" Belado nods, her expression calm yet unwavering. "Yes, my lord. In my world, my master designed a portal to traverse dimensions, but the portal was only able to traverse to random worlds without a clear destination. So an assistant of his made something fascinating, it's called Interdimensional Navigating Algorithm, or INA for short. She used it to map out the multiverse, to help us have more specific destinations"
Belado takes a breath before continuing "And that algorithm is the reason why I'm here. Nami, the woman behind INA asked me to test out the world filter function of INA. It used my magical signature to filter worlds to find ones with my counterpart. My mission is to come here, find the counterpart and confirm the actual accuracy of INA for future improvement"
She then looks at Albedo, who is still processing the situation "The similarity ratio of this counterpart to me is 100% percent according to INA, I just need to have a scan with your Albedo to confirm and conclude my mission, by then I can return home and report this back to Nami"
Ainz steepled his fingers, crimson eyes gleaming with intrigue. "Interdimensional travel... A mapping algorithm for the multiverse..." He lets out a low hum, deep in thought. "This is beyond even the wildest capabilities of Yggdrasil... To think such a thing is possible."
The Guardians exchange glances. Demiurge adjusts his glasses, his interest piqued. "A system capable of pinpointing specific versions of individuals across different realities... If true, this is revolutionary, my lord."
Shalltear frowns. "Tch. This is giving me a headache. So you're saying you came all this way just to scan Albedo? And then you'll leave?"
Belado nods. "That is the mission assigned to me, yes. Once I confirm the accuracy of the scan, I will return to my world and report the findings."
Albedo, who had been silent until now, finally speaks, her voice measured. "And what guarantee do we have that this 'scan' is harmless? You claim your only goal is observation, but I find it difficult to trust an outsider so easily, especially one who wears my face."
Belado meets Albedo's gaze steadily. "I understand your concern. You are the Overseer of the Great Tomb of Nazarick. Caution is expected of you. But I give my word—this scan is non-invasive. It is purely magical data collection, nothing more."
Ainz leans forward slightly, considering. "If what you say is true, this technology has vast implications. But before I allow anything to proceed, I must confirm something." His glowing eyes fix on Belado. "You speak of your master. Who is he?"
Belado's expression brightened when the topic of about her master is mentioned "His name is Arto Abyssgard, he is a scientist, a mage and a warrior, he was the one that designed the portal, we only put it together when he was gone for some work, he is also the one who laid the foundation for INA, but he didn't develop it, Nami did"
Ainz listens intently, his mind working through the implications. "A scientist, a mage, and a warrior... A ruler like myself, yet seemingly more involved in the technical aspects of his world's advancements. Fascinating."
"I wouldn't call him a ruler, my lord, my master has no interest in ruling, his interest lies solely in advancement and innovation, he has no position in the authorities, he prefers staying in the shadow, doing his own things, and most importantly, tending to his harem" Belado's eyes softens as she cups her blushing cheeks.
Ainz pauses for a moment, his glowing crimson eyes narrowing slightly at Belado's reaction. "I see... So your master is not a ruler in the traditional sense, yet he commands great knowledge and influence from the shadows."
Demiurge hums thoughtfully. "A man uninterested in power yet surrounded by loyal followers... How peculiar. And this 'harem' you speak of, Belado—are you implying that you are part of it?"
Belado's expression remains warm, the faint blush lingering on her cheeks. "Of course. I, along with many others, serve and love him wholeheartedly. To us, he is more than just a genius—he is our guiding star."
Shalltear snickers, folding her arms. "Hah! So in the end, you're no different from our Albedo—head over heels for your master."
Albedo, who had remained silent, finally speaks, her voice measured but with a slight edge. "Devotion is one thing, but it seems your relationship dynamic is... different."
Belado tilts her head, smiling softly. "Perhaps. My master has never distanced himself from us. He acknowledges our love, and in return, he provides us with everything we could ever desire, especially, knowledge, lots of knowledge, we women of his are all his assistants in his research and daily works. He honed us so that even if when he isn't home, we have things to do and can carry out his will and vision, like Rias, Akeno and Sona with optimizing his crafts, Robin with managing the researches and advancing them further, Nami with INA and family's finance, Grayfia with household managing. And me...with the role of being his secretary"
Ainz pauses for a moment, his glowing crimson eyes narrowing slightly at Belado's reaction. "I see... So that's how you work in your world, it's an efficient structure," Ainz finishes, tapping his armored fingers together. "Rather than simply being companions, you all contribute actively to his work. I see we do share some similarity in our managing methods, it's always better to have capable people. You've gotten yourself a great master, Belado"
"Thank you, my lord, for your compliment, I'll make sure my master knows about this. Now that's enough about my master, let's get back to business, will you let me do the scan, lord Ainz, lady Albedo?" Belado bows her head
Ainz considers for a moment before giving a slow nod. "Very well, you can proceed the scan, but the process will be done here, before our eyes, if you commit anything reckless or harmful for my Albedo, the consequences will be severe" he commands with power and authority of a king
"Have it your way, my lord" Belado turns to Albedo "Lady, Albedo, can you come down here so that we can begin the scan?" Albedo hesitates for a brief moment before stepping forward. Her golden eyes remain locked onto Belado's, her expression composed yet guarded. "I will comply," she says smoothly, "but understand that I will be monitoring your every move."
Belado chuckles softly. "Of course. I would expect nothing less from myself."
As Albedo descends into the Amphitheater, the tension in the room thickens. The Guardians watch with unwavering focus, their hands ready at their sides should anything unexpected occur. Even Ainz, despite his calm exterior, remains alert.
When Albedo comes closer to Belado to perform the scan, she senses something from her counterpart, a scent she never thought could ever appear on her body, human's scent. Albedo's golden eyes widen ever so slightly, though she swiftly masks her reaction. "Impossible. Why would she...?"
"You seem to work with humans a lot, huh, Belado?" Albedo asks a question out of nowhere when the scan was going on. Belado shrugs slightly "Not quite, lady Albedo, there are only 4 humans I usually interact with, Nami, Robin, Erza and my master, Arto" Belado says bluntly without any hesitation, but it causes a tension through the arena.
"You're saying......your master......is a...human?" Albedo asks "Yes, he is indeed a human..." Belado looks up to sense the tension in the Amphitheater "...is there anything wrong with it?" She can feel every eye here is locked onto her and her answer.
The Amphitheater of Nazarick fell into an unnatural silence—one heavier than steel, more suffocating than the air of the tomb itself. The Guardians remained motionless, yet the very space around them felt charged, like a storm moments before breaking loose.
Albedo stares unblinking at Belado, her golden eyes narrowing ever so slightly, burning with something dark and unreadable. Her wings quivered, though whether in disgust or barely restrained fury was uncertain.
Ainz, from his throne, remained visibly composed, yet beneath the surface, his mind raced. A human master?
"Belado," he finally spoke, his voice slow, measured, weighted with authority. "Did I hear that correctly? Your master is a human?"
Belado blinked, a flicker of mild surprise at the reaction. "Yes, my lord," she reaffirmed without hesitation. "Arto, my master, is indeed human." The tension in the air grew taut.
Demiurge's glasses glinted dangerously as he adjusted them with a slow, deliberate motion. His usual composed expression twisted into something sharp, almost predatory. "Forgive me, Ainz-sama, but did she just say... she serves a human? Willingly?" His voice was silken, yet dripping with restrained hostility.
Cocytus's mandibles clicked audibly, his stance shifting slightly, as if preparing for battle. "Such... treachery... unthinkable..."
Mare fidgeted, clutching his staff tightly, though his heterochromatic eyes held a rare flicker of something cold. "U-umm... is that... even possible...?"
Aura's usually playful demeanor vanished. She folded her arms, tilting her head with narrowed eyes. "Gross. That's just weird."
Shalltear's crimson pupils widened in visible disgust. "Tch. What repulsive nonsense is this? An Albedo serving a mere fleshbag?" Her fingers twitched at her side, as if resisting the urge to summon Spuit Lance and erase the disgrace before her.
Even Sebas, who had always had a soft spot for humans, remained stiff, his sharp gaze betraying deep concern. Albedo was silent. Deathly silent.
Belado could feel the intensity of the gaze burning into her—the unwavering hatred, the revulsion, the sheer disbelief from her counterpart.
Albedo's voice, when it finally came, was low, venomous, and laced with restrained fury. "You... are telling me... that you, who shares my face, my strength, my essence, have sworn loyalty to a human? That you... willingly serve one as your supreme master?"
Belado blinked, puzzled by the sheer hostility she didn't expect. "Yes, I do. He is my beloved master, after all," she said simply while trying to remain calm.
Something inside Albedo snapped. She laughed. A laugh that started as a soft chuckle but escalated into something chilling—a mix of disbelief, scorn, and profound, soul-deep rage. Her wings spread wide, dark as the abyss, trembling with barely controlled fury. "A HUMAN? A PATHETIC, FILTHY, WEAKLING HUMAN?!"
Belado tilted her head, brows furrowing slightly at the sheer intensity of her counterpart's reaction. "Is there... something wrong with that?" Belado asks, trying to understand the sudden hatred and resentment coming her way
Albedo's golden eyes flashed with pure murder. "Something WRONG?" she echoed, voice sharp enough to cut steel. "You DARE ask me that?" She stepped forward, her heels clicking ominously against the stone floor. "You, who were crafted for nothing but absolute, unwavering devotion to a Supreme Being, now crawl at the feet of a mere human? You disgust me."
Belado's expression remained calm, but her hand instinctively tightened into a fist. "My devotion is unwavering," she stated, voice cool. "Arto is my Supreme Being, just as Ainz-sama is yours." Albedo snarled. "BLASPHEMY!"
Just as Albedo's killing intent spiked, Ainz raised a single hand. "That is enough." His voice carried a silent command, an unshakable force that immediately silenced the room. Even Albedo, who trembled with burning rage, obeyed, though her fingers twitched at her side as if restraining the urge to tear Belado apart.
Ainz regarded Belado with an unreadable expression. His mind raced. A version of Albedo serving a human...? And she speaks of technology that can traverse dimensions...? If such a thing existed, it could be either a great threat or a great opportunity.
"Belado," Ainz finally spoke, his tone carefully neutral. "You have now seen the reaction of my Guardians. Do you understand why your revelation has caused... tension?" Belado exhaled slowly, meeting his gaze
"I...I don't, my lord. I never thought you had such a view about humankind. My master taught me never to look down on anyone, he taught me to treat them with respect if they deserve it no matter their race and kind"
Albedo's expression twisted, her golden eyes filled with raw, unfiltered contempt. "Ridiculous," she spat, her wings trembling with restrained rage. "A Supreme Being lowering himself to treat mere humans as equals? You speak nonsense!"
Demiurge chuckled darkly, pushing his glasses up as he regarded Belado with a sharp, calculating gaze. "How amusing... Ainz-sama, it seems we have encountered a truly defective existence. A being molded in Albedo's image, yet polluted by human ideals. How pitiful."
Shalltear scoffed, flipping her silver hair behind her shoulder. "Not just pitiful—repulsive. Imagine groveling at the feet of an insect and calling it your god. I can barely stomach the thought."
Cocytus let out a low, rumbling hiss. "UNTHINKABLE... YET... STRATEGICALLY... CURIOUS." His voice was a measured growl, rather than outright condemnation. "TO SERVE A HUMAN... A BEING SO WEAK... SUCH A CHOICE... DEFIES REASON."
Aura narrowed her eyes, arms crossed tightly. "What kind of master doesn't create their own servants? You weren't even born of his will, and yet you call him your Supreme Being?"
Mare fidgeted nervously but said nothing, his lips pressing together in unease. Even Sebas, usually the most tolerant among them, stood stiff and unreadable, his sharp gaze fixed on Belado with barely veiled scrutiny.
Ainz finally spoke. "Belado."
His voice was steady, unreadable. "You claim this human has earned your loyalty. You claim he is worthy of your devotion. But tell me..." His glowing eyes bore into hers. "If your master were to order you to destroy Nazarick for his own goal like an invasion—would you obey?"
Belado did not hesitate. "Yes." The air itself seemed to crack.
The Guardians reacted immediately. Shalltear's lips curled into a vicious grin, her fingers twitching in anticipation. Demiurge's smirk deepened into something far more menacing. Cocytus's grip tightened on his weapon. Aura and Mare both stiffened, their expressions darkening.
Albedo, however, went still. Then, very softly, she whispered, "YOU insolent whore, bowing before a weakling human, wagging your tail like a good lapdog, waiting for a scrap of his vicious affection. And you dare wear my face when doing so"
Belado turns to Albedo "You can insult me all you want, but please don't say that about my master. I don't want to argue with you about your point of view, we were born in different words, in different ways, in different situations, so I'm in no place to teach you about how to treat others. So if you hate me that much for who I serve, please come here so that I can complete my scan and leave. I aim to no fight, no conflict, no resentment, all I wanted was completing my search and confirmation before heading home to my master"
But when Belado comes to Albedo Albedo's voice was sharp, cold, and laced with venom. She took a step back, her golden eyes burning with restrained fury as she glared at Belado. "Do not come near me with those tainted hands."
Belado stopped in her tracks, tilting her head slightly. "Tainted?" she echoed, her voice calm despite the hostility radiating from her counterpart.
Albedo sneered, her wings twitching with barely contained aggression. "You reek of them. Of him. The stench of human filth clings to you like a disease. Do not think for a second that I will tolerate it any longer."
"Please, Albedo, don't make it harder for me like this, if you want, you can cover your nose, just a little bit, so that I can complete my scan..." Belado almost pleads Albedo to comply, but Nazarick overseer brushes her counterpart off
"You think just covering my nose would cleanse me from that horrible, filthy, stinky human scent of yours. Your and your master's existence is nothing more than an offense, an insult for those who bear my face" Albedo shoots her words at Belado with no stop as she keeps trying to come closer
Belado sighed, her golden eyes dimming with a quiet, weary understanding. She had expected rejection, had anticipated the scorn—but the sheer hatred in Albedo's voice, in her eyes, was beyond what she had imagined.
"I see," Belado murmured, taking a slow breath. "So that's how it is."
Albedo's wings flared wider, her body tensed like a predator ready to strike. "Stay back," she hissed, her voice dripping with contempt. "I will not suffer the touch of a creature that has lowered itself to grovel at human feet."
Belado closed her eyes briefly before opening them again, her gaze steady. "I have no intention of groveling to anyone. My master does not ask that of me—he never has."
"Lies."
"It's the truth," Belado replied evenly. "You may not believe me, and that is fine. But I will not stand here and allow you to insult the one who gave me everything."
Albedo clenched her fists so tightly that her nails threatened to pierce her gloves. "Everything? You dare compare your... your human to Ainz-sama?"
"I never did," Belado corrected. "I merely said that he is my everything. Just as Ainz-sama is yours."
The words were simple, spoken without malice, yet they ignited something volatile in Albedo. Her golden eyes flared with pure, unfiltered rage.
"How dare you," she whispered, voice trembling with fury. "How dare you even imply that a human could be equal to Ainz-sama."
Belado held her gaze, unshaken. "I never said that either. You're the one drawing comparisons, not me."
The Amphitheater crackled with tension. The other Guardians stood frozen, watching with rapt attention. Shalltear smirked, eyes gleaming with amusement. Demiurge's expression remained unreadable, though his fingers twitched slightly in thought. Cocytus watched in rigid silence, and Aura and Mare exchanged uneasy glances.
Ainz, however, was silent, his glowing eyes flickering as he observed the exchange.
Albedo took a slow, deliberate breath, as if reining herself in. "It doesn't matter," she finally said, her voice as sharp as a blade. "You are not me. You are a disgrace. A walking insult to my very existence."
Belado tensed.
It was subtle at first—the faintest twitch in her jaw, the way her fingers flexed as if resisting the urge to curl into a fist. Her usually steady breath came sharper, controlled but undeniably tense.
Albedo, emboldened, pressed on. "Your so-called 'master' is nothing but a feeble, pathetic sack of flesh, undeserving of even the dirt beneath my feet. A lowly creature who should have been crushed underfoot rather than be served like a Supreme Being—"
The sharp crack of Belado's slap echoed through the Amphitheater like a thunderclap.
For a moment, everything stopped.
Albedo's head snapped to the side, strands of raven-black hair falling across her face. The force of the blow sent her staggering a single step, her golden eyes widening in pure shock. No one—not a single soul in Nazarick—had ever dared lay a hand on her in such a manner.
The silence that followed was suffocating. The Guardians were frozen, eyes locked onto the two Albedos with expressions ranging from disbelief to intrigue.
Then, a slow, eerie laughter bubbled from Albedo's throat.
"You..." Albedo whispered, her voice shaking—not from pain, but from something far more dangerous. She turned her head back to face Belado, her golden eyes now burning with an unholy fire. "You dare strike me?"
Belado stood her ground, her hand still trembling slightly from the impact. Her chest rose and fell with deep, controlled breaths, but her expression was steel.
"I told you to stop," she repeated, her voice firm, unwavering. "I begged you to be quiet for just a moment. I did everything in my power to avoid conflict, but you refused. You insulted my master, belittled everything he stands for, and I endured it. But no more." Belado shakes her head
Albedo's wings flared to their full, intimidating span. "You dare act as if we are equals?" she spat. "You, a pathetic whore who kneels to a human?"
"I kneel to no one," Belado shot back, her golden eyes flashing with her own simmering rage. "I serve my master because I choose to, because he has earned my loyalty. I do not need your approval, and I certainly do not need to justify myself to you. But I will not stand here and let you insult him any longer."
Ainz, who had been watching in silence, finally stirred. "Enough," he commanded, his deep voice cutting through the air like a blade.
But neither Albedo nor Belado moved. The energy between them was raw, electric, a storm barely contained.
Albedo exhaled sharply, her hands curled into trembling fists at her sides. "If Ainz-sama were to order it, I would tear you apart where you stand."
Belado lifted her chin, meeting her counterpart's fury head-on. "And if Arto were to order it, I would have crushed you into juice."
The tension reached its breaking point. Albedo lunged forward. Belado quickly reacts as runes crackling behind her back and a portal opens, waiting for the enraged Albedo to come.
Albedo pushes Belado back through the portal as Belado planned, she whispers "Isolate" before the portal was closed entirely
On the other side of the portal appears a copy of the Amphitheater but with no one there. Belado stood a short distance away, her golden eyes cold, unwavering. The faint shimmer of her magic still pulsed in the air behind her, the edges of the portal sealing shut with a finality that left no escape.
Albedo straightened, pure hatred burning in her gaze. "So, you dare to separate me from lord Ainz?" Her voice was quiet, but dangerous. "A reckless mistake, traitor."
Belado exhaled, rolling her shoulders as if shaking off the weight of restraint. "No," she corrected, her voice calm but firm. "A necessary one. Here, I will give you back every insult, every ounce of venom you spat at my master." She spread her arms, golden energy crackling at her fingertips. "Don your armor, Albedo. I have shown you patience, I have chosen peace, but I will not let you degrade my master any longer."
A sharp grin spread across Albedo's lips, though it did nothing to hide the unbridled fury in her eyes. "Fine," she seethed. "I was going to crush you regardless, but since you're so eager to die—" She flicked her wrist, summoning a flash of deep crimson light. The very air rippled with magic as her obsidian battle armor materialized over her form, its intricate gold lining gleaming under the eerie light of their empty battlefield.
Her halberd manifested in her grip, its sheer weight causing a sharp thud as its base struck the stone beneath her. The air between them grew heavy, charged with unspoken promises of destruction.
Belado's expression remained unreadable as she, too, summoned her own armor—identical to Albedo's in every way except for a single detail: the emblem adorning her chestplate. Instead of the sigil of Ainz Ooal Gown, it bore the insignia of her master, Arto.
Albedo sneered at the sight. "Even your armor is tainted by that human's mark."
Belado met her gaze without hesitation. "And I wear it with pride."
Neither moved. The silence stretched between them, thick, suffocating, the final breath before a storm. Then, like the clash of thunder—They charged at each other.
On the outside of the portal, Ainz stood before the swirling remnants of the portal, his crimson eyes glowing faintly beneath his skull-like visage. The amphitheater of Nazarick, which had moments ago been filled with tension, now carried an eerie silence. The portal had closed the instant Albedo and Belado disappeared within, leaving behind no trace of its lingering energy.
He raised a skeletal hand, casting [Greater Teleportation].
Nothing.
His glowing eyes narrowed. Not a failure, but... rejection?
He turned to Demiurge, who stood stiffly beside him, his clawed fingers pressing against his chin in thought. "Ainz-sama," the demon finally spoke, his voice measured, yet carrying a rare note of concern, "this magic... we have never seen anything like it."
"No," Ainz corrected, the analytical gears of his mind turning at full speed. "It is not that we do not know this magic—it is that it does not belong to our world." He extended his hand toward the space where the portal had once been and cast [Gate], willing the spell to forcefully reopen the dimensional passage.
Nothing. No response. As if the very laws of reality refused his command.
Demiurge adjusted his glasses, their lenses flashing ominously. "If I may, Ainz-sama... this does not resemble Wild Magic. The sensation is different."
"Indeed," Sebas confirmed, his normally composed demeanor betraying a hint of unease. "Wild Magic carries a weight, an ancient power rooted in this world's essence. But this..." He gestured toward the empty air. "It feels foreign. As if it does not acknowledge us."
He raised his staff, calling upon the power of [Wish Upon a Star], attempting to force a way through the portal. Energy crackled around him, divine power condensing—
And yet, nothing happened. The spell refused to recognize the target.
Ainz's mind raced. Not Wild Magic. Not Tier Magic. Not even a World-Class Item's influence? Then what...? For the first time in a long while, an unfamiliar feeling crept into his calculations—uncertainty.
He was not used to spells that simply did not respond. He had learned to counteract, overpower, or circumvent every magic in existence, yet this...A spell that operated by an entirely different system.
His fingers twitched as he considered his options. Attack? No. If it were a barrier based on something from Yggdrasil, brute force would suffice. But this is not something that can be broken—it exists outside our rules.
He turned to Pandora's Actor, who had been silently analyzing the residual energy. The doppelgänger saluted crisply. "Ainz-sama! I have cross-referenced all known magical structures within Nazarick's database and our encounters in this world. No known records match the properties of this spell."
Ainz exhaled internally. He had suspected as much. That left only one course of action—information gathering, which is impossible considering how vague the information about the world where Belado comes from, he only knows it's out there, but he has no way to connect to it without Belado, the worlds travelling Albedo.
"She isolated herself and Albedo, knowing she can't take us all on alone, but this is Albedo we're talking about, but Belado is also Albedo, and from their aura, it seems their power level is the same, but Belado has prowess over magic her home world...this is concerning" Ainz thinks to himself while looking at the swirling vortex.
Behind him, Demiurge spoke with cautious curiosity. "Ainz-sama... should we prepare for intervention? If Albedo falls into a disadvantageous position—" Ainz raised a hand, silencing him. His mind was already calculating. "No. We do not act yet."
Demiurge blinked, then adjusted his glasses. "Because we lack information?"
"Exactly," Ainz affirmed. "Belado's magic is outside of our comprehension. We have no idea how it functions, what its limits are, or if she has countermeasures against our own. Albedo is among our strongest warriors... and yet, right now, she might not be able to fully counter Belado."
Shalltear scoffed, folding her arms. "Tch. But Albedo is fighting a mere copy of herself, isn't she?" Ainz turned his gaze toward her. "No, Shalltear. You're mistaken." Shalltear frowned.
"Belado isn't just a copy," Ainz continued. His voice was calm but firm. "She is an Albedo shaped by a different world, different experiences, and most importantly—different magic. That alone makes her unpredictable."
Demiurge's smile thinned. "And unpredictability... is the greatest danger. But Belado says she came in peace and looks for no conflict, let's just hope that she was genuine with her intention, because if she was shrouded in anger by what Albedo said..."
His golden eyes flickered behind his glasses. "We might only see one of them come out of that portal" The words carried a weight that settled heavily over the gathered Guardians. Silence.
Meanwhile, inside the portal, Albedo and Belado are fighting in a perfect, equal battle, their physical strength are completely identical, each blow receiving an equal counter. When their halberds clash, the ground shakes, the wall crack and the whole arena is moved by their power.
Their weapons met in a violent arc, locking together as the force of the impact sent cracks snaking across the arena. Belado narrowed her eyes. "I expected no less from myself," she said, her tone steady but her grip tightening.
Albedo snarled, pushing harder. "Do not compare yourself to me, traitor!" she spat. "You are a disgrace wearing my face!" Belado gritted her teeth as their weapons trembled between them, neither gaining ground. "If that's how you see it, so be it." With a swift maneuver, she disengaged and spun her halberd, bringing it down with titanic force.
Albedo blocked, but the impact sent her skidding back, her heels grinding against the cracked floor. She recovered instantly, wings flaring, and launched herself forward like a black comet.
Belado met her head-on.
Fists, halberds, kicks—every movement was met with an exact counter. The perfect replication of their physical might turned the battle into an unbreakable stalemate.
Albedo's lips curled into a sneer. "This changes nothing," she growled. "Strength alone cannot redeem you, Belado. You serve a human. You have already lost."
Belado remained silent, but a flicker of something passed through her gaze. Albedo saw it—and she grinned.
"Oh? Did I hit a nerve? Is that filthy human on your mind even now?" Albedo taunted, her voice dripping with venom. Belado's grip on her halberd tightened.
"A disgrace. A lowly, pathetic insect. You bend your knee to something so weak? So fragile? You disgust me." The air changed as energy around Belado darkens. "You really have to say that?" Belado's power becomes more out of control, the air around her twisted because of her aura.
Albedo narrowed her eyes. "Tch. Did I touch a weak spot? Or are you finally realizing the truth?" But instead of launching herself madly towards Albedo, Belado stays idle as her free hand reaches up and makes a hand sign as she murmurs "Comet" from her hand appears a real comet flying at blinding speed.
Albedo was about to evade the coming destruction, but her counterpart was one step ahead, she dashes forward, faster than the coming comet and hits her opponent straight into the flying celestial body. The impact of Belado's strike sent a shockwave throughout the arena, the comet colliding with Albedo in an explosive burst of light and power. The ground cracked and buckled under the sheer energy, the air around them scorching as the comet continued to fly off into the distance.
Albedo's armor absorbed much of the blow, but the force still rattled her. Her body skidded back, her wings flaring to maintain her balance. Injuries would have been severe had it not been for her exceptional skill, which allowed her to transfer most of the damage to her armor and protect herself from the brunt of the celestial attack.
Still, the shock of the impact left Albedo breathless, her knees shaking as she struggled to regain her footing as a large piece of her armor fell from her body. What's left was scorched and dented in places, her pride stinging as she looked up at Belado.
Belado stood opposite her, the air still charged with her aura. Her hand remained outstretched, still trembling with power, her eyes locked onto Albedo with an emotionless gaze. The comet had done its work, and now the battle had shifted.
Albedo's expression twisted into something far more dangerous—rage, disbelief, and a hint of unease in her golden eyes. "That bitch knows magic..."
"You... dare to strike me with such... childish tricks?" she growled, her wings twitching with barely contained fury. She stood tall, though her chest heaved with exertion, her sharp eyes never leaving Belado.
"Say another disgusting word about my beloved master and you'll have another comet coming to your face, Albedo" Belado snarls coldly "Pick up your weapon." she commands "Pick that damn thing up and fight me like a warrior you are, show me that I can still respect your spirit despite your shit mouth"
She gritted her teeth so hard it hurt, her wings flaring behind her in a display of sheer ferocity. "How dare you..." she growled, the edges of her vision tinged with red. With a powerful flap of her wings, she launched herself forward, halberd raised high, ready to erase this disgrace with her own hands.
2 halberds clash yet again, the imitation of the Amphitheater once again shakes violently because of the battle between 2 women, cracks have started to appear on their weapons as their ferocity doesn't die down. Blow after blow, the halberds are closer to the point where they break but neither of them seems to care as they try to take down the other.
CRACK!
Their weapons shatter before the rage of battle between 2 Albedos, that last blow pushes both of them back. Albedo and Belado pant heavily but their eyes still lock onto the other. The deathly silence of the battle was broken by the one who was viewed as a disgrace "You know Albedo...." Belado reaches her hands into her vault
"....There is a good thing about being viewed as weak and lesser beings..." she pulls out 2 knuckles, cracking with power "...you're prepared for any situations" the pair of knuckles are slipped into her fingers "...Did your lord prepare you for when your halberd breaks apart? Or did he assume you'd never need another weapon?"
Albedo's grip on her broken halberd tightened, her wings flaring as she prepared to face this new threat. Her heart pounded in her chest, but she refused to show the slightest bit of fear. Her pride would not allow it.
"You've crossed the line, Belado," Albedo growled, her eyes burning with fury. "And you'll regret it."
The air between them exploded as both women launched themselves forward with relentless speed. The ground beneath them shattered from the force of their movements, leaving deep craters where they once stood.
Belado's knuckle glowed with energy, her strike aimed directly at Albedo's jaw. Albedo barely managed to twist her body, Belado's fist grazing her cheek before she countered with a brutal knee to the ribs.
Belado coughed but didn't falter. She retaliated instantly, swinging low, her knuckles crashing into Albedo's side with a thunderous impact.
Albedo gritted her teeth, absorbing the blow, but the sheer force of it sent her skidding backward. Her armor cracked further, sparks flying from the damage, but she refused to fall.
Instead of retreating, she roared and dashed back in, wings propelling her at insane speed.
Her fist met Belado's midsection, slamming into her with enough force to send her hurtling through the air. But Belado twisted mid-flight, using the momentum to flip and land on her feet, skidding to a stop as cracks webbed out beneath her.
Albedo barely had time to react before Belado closed the distance again, her knuckles surging with power.
BOOM!
The impact sent a massive shockwave through the arena, the walls groaning under the sheer force of their battle. The once-pristine imitation Amphitheater was falling apart around them, debris raining from above.
Albedo steps forward as another part of her armor fell from her body, her body was battered and bruised, trembling because of the impact of that last blow, she had to use that skill once more to direct the damage to her armor, she only has one time left to use the skill, she can't afford to take another hit, or her defeat will be decided.
Across from her, Belado stood firm, breathing heavily but steady. Her knuckles still crackled with power, the strange energy of her homeworld pulsing through her weapons. Despite the intensity of the battle, her gaze remained unreadable, but there was no mistaking the challenge in her stance.
Albedo narrowed her eyes. She refused to falter.
"Running out of armor to hide behind?" Belado remarked coolly, rolling her shoulders as if preparing for the next exchange. "I hope you weren't relying on that to carry you through this fight, Albedo."
Albedo scowled, taking another step forward. Even as her legs protested, even as pain pulsed through her body, she straightened her posture and glared at her counterpart.
"You speak as though you have already won," she hissed, her voice laced with venom. "Do not mistake my setbacks for weakness. I will break you before this battle ends."
"I see, I like that, looks like you still have some respectable traits, after all. Your pride has been carrying you really well till this point, but how long are you going to hold out with that dwindling pride of a superior being, I wonder?" Belado teases as she walks closer to her opponent
Albedo's jaw tightened, her golden eyes flashing dangerously. "Long enough to crush you beneath it," she spat, spreading her wings wide. The sheer force of her presence cracked the stone beneath her feet, despite her battered state. Even now, even with her armor crumbling, even with her body reaching its limit—her pride as the Overseer of Nazarick refused to break.
Belado merely tilted her head, unfazed. "Good answer," she acknowledged, flexing her fingers as the energy in her knuckles pulsed brighter. "Then let's put it to the test, shall we?"
The tension in the air thickened, crackling like a storm about to break. And then— They moved.
A blur of black and gold, two warriors colliding with unstoppable force. Belado's fist snapped forward, aiming for Albedo's exposed side, but Albedo twisted at the last second, slamming her elbow into Belado's ribs. The impact sent a shockwave rippling through the air, but Belado absorbed it, pivoting smoothly before delivering a devastating uppercut.
Albedo barely had time to block—her forearm braced against the force—but the impact still sent her skidding backward. Her heels carved deep trenches into the stone, her breath coming out in sharp, ragged bursts.
Belado did not relent. She closed the distance in an instant, unleashing a barrage of strikes—lightning-fast, precise, merciless. Each blow carried the full weight of her power, the very air distorting around them.
Albedo met her head-on. She deflected one hit. Countered another. Took a third, but retaliated with a brutal knee to Belado's stomach. The impact forced Belado back a step, but her expression didn't waver. Instead, she smirked.
"Not bad," she admitted, rolling her shoulders as if shaking off the hit. But instead of dashing into another exchange, Belado steps back as she starts using her magic again. The arena, already battered from their relentless clash, shuddered as magical energy flared violently around Belado's form.
"You're running back to your tricks?" Albedo spat, tightening her stance. "Have you finally realized your fists alone won't be enough to bring me down?"
Belado's smirk deepened. "No," she said simply, her voice calm but laced with quiet confidence. "I just want to see how well you handle something your precious Supreme Beings never prepared you for. Moreover,...." she smirks "I want you to know what set me apart from you"
She snapped her fingers. A sudden gravitational force pulled Albedo downward, as if a thousand invisible hands were trying to drag her into the abyss. The stone beneath her splintered, cracks spider webbing outward as the immense pressure bore down on her.
Albedo gritted her teeth, wings struggling to spread, but the force was unnatural—it didn't operate like anything she'd encountered before. "Grrr—!" She slammed her foot down, reinforcing her stance, fighting against the crushing weight.
"Gravitational magic, always my favorite" Belado walks lightly towards Albedo as everything around her comes crashing down by gravity "I've made a good set of them to use and you just saw 3 of them, the Comet, the Gravitational Fist, and now this, aren't you amazed, Albedo? Seeing all this...." Belado's smile under her helmet widens
"....taught to me by the one who deemed worthless, the human you called filthy and weak, seeing them peel away the defense you're always so proud of, my master would love to see how far his beloved succubus has progressed when he came home" Belado puts her armored hands up to cup her cheeks.
Albedo's eyes burned with fury. Not just at the unbearable pressure weighing her down, not just at Belado's infuriating smirk—but at the words that cut deeper than any blade. Her pride, her loyalty, her very existence spat upon by a mere reflection of herself.
The stone beneath her groaned, her knees threatened to buckle, but she refused. She was Albedo, Guardian Overseer of the Great Tomb of Nazarick. No mere trick—no magic from an unknown world—would bring her to her knees.
A deep, guttural growl built in her throat. "You... dare...?" Her wings trembled before suddenly flaring wide, her demonic energy erupting like a black inferno around her. The very air around her shattered, distorting under the sheer force of her will.
Belado's smug expression remained. "I do." Albedo roared.
Her overwhelming power burst outward, a shockwave ripping apart the stone beneath her feet. The gravitational force still pressed against her, but now, she was pushing back. Step by step, she forced her body forward, fangs bared, golden eyes gleaming with raw hatred. She used the last time of her skill, transferring all the damage from the gravitational pull into her armor.
The Hermes Trismegistus cracked before the constant damage transferred to it, but it gave Albedo strength to stand up. With a final, earth-shattering stomp, Albedo shattered the ground beneath her, launching forward like a black bullet, pieces of the Hermes Trismegistus fall behind her as she advanced forward to turn off that sickening smug of Belado under that helmet of hers.
Belado barely had time to react before Albedo was upon her. A fist, blackened with fury, came crashing towards her. Belado twisted just in time, dodging by a hair's breadth—but the sheer force of the blow sent a shockwave tearing through the air, splitting the stone behind her.
She didn't expect Albedo to push through the gravity so quickly. Albedo did not relent. Another strike. A kick. Each movement is faster, heavier, and more vicious than before. She had shed her armor, but not her wrath.
Belado blocked the first few hits, redirecting the force—but Albedo was adapting. Too fast.
A sudden faint—a knee to the stomach. Belado's breath hitched as the impact sent her skidding backward. The shock rippled through her bones, but she refused to stagger.
She grinned instead as the helmet of her armor fell from her body, revealing her smuggling face, causing Albedo's heavy eyes to sink into something she has never felt before, despair "Aww~you did put up some good blows, I'll give you that, but do you really think that only you can transfer damage to your armor? Guess what,...." Belado's smile widens "...I'm you"
Albedo froze, her breath caught in her throat as Belado's words hit her with a weight that was almost suffocating. The tension in the air thickened as Belado's words echoed in her mind. "I'm you" By that time, the last piece of Hermes Trismegistus falls from her body, the weight of the gravity pull once again crushes her when it's done with her armor.
Nazarick's Overseer tries to maintain her stance but the gravity, combined with the injuries from the previous battle were too much for her, Albedo slowly falls down, submitting to the gravity her counterpart created, Albedo for the first time in her existence, Albedo was defeated, not by anyone, but by her from another world, Belado.
Belado smirks as she lifts the spell and walks deliberately towards her counterpart. Belado's boots echoed through the shattered amphitheater as she strode forward, the weight of her victory radiating from her with every step. Her smirk never faded as she looked down at Albedo, the proud Overseer of Nazarick, now reduced to a battered, humiliated mess on the ground.
"Well, how does defeat feel, Albedo?" she asked, her voice dripping with amusement. "Don't worry, the first time is always a little more bitter. I understand."
Albedo gritted her teeth, her pride burning hotter than the pain in her body. This was beyond disgraceful—she, Albedo, the Guardian Overseer of Nazarick, had never even entertained the idea of defeat. And yet, she was here, completely at the mercy of...
Herself.
Suddenly, Belado pulls Albedo up from the ground and puts her up on her feet, Belado's expression was unreadable as she looked at the defeated Albedo. "What's she doing?" Albedo wonders as she looks at her counterpart from another world. Suddenly, Belado kisses Albedo lightly on her forehead "That's for putting up a good fight~"
Albedo's eyes widened seeing what Belado was doing, the kiss was followed by a light tap on Albedo's cheek when she was processing the situation, Belado smiles "That's for insulting me~". And what comes last was out of Albedo's expectation, a devastating punch in her stomach, making Albedo cough out blood "That's for insulting my master" Belado says coldly as she lets go of Albedo.
Albedo falls onto her knees as she clutches her stomach, Belado lets out a sigh "Well, that's the end of it" Belado pulls out the scanning device she used earlier to finish her work "Let's see" Albedo puts up no resistance when Belado scans her. When it's done, Belado looks at the result and lets out a surprised tone "So INA was right, 100%, we are exactly the same, Albedo, can you believe that?"
Albedo gritted her teeth, her pride screaming at her to retaliate, to say something, anything—but her body refused to obey. The pain in her stomach still lingered, the humiliation of defeat weighing heavier than any physical wound.
Belado then kneels before Albedo, her smile never fades. "Well, since we're practically twins, let's do something together. Let's start with how you want to go home, my dear other self? I can carry you like a bride, piggyback you like a little sister, or I'll drag you back by the leg like a fish net"
Belado, in stark contrast, remained as relaxed as ever, her smirk never once fading. The way she casually knelt before Albedo, speaking as though they were simply engaging in friendly banter, only made the loss sting more.
Albedo finally forced herself to glare up at her counterpart, golden eyes burning with resentment. "You dare mock me...?"
Belado chuckled. "Oh, Albedo~. I'm not mocking you. I'm offering you options—am I just a generous sister?" She tilted her head, amusement glimmering in her gaze. "Come on, pick one. If you don't, I might just get creative."
Albedo's fingers curled into fists, her nails digging into her palms as she seethed. Every fiber of her being rejected this humiliation, but her body, her pride—everything—had already been trampled beneath Belado's strength.
She wanted to spit venom, to retaliate, but her breath hitched in her throat, the lingering pain still refusing to fade.
Belado's smirk deepened as she tapped a finger against her chin, feigning deep thought. "No answer? That's okay~. I love making decisions."
Albedo's glare sharpened. "Don't you dare—" Too late.
In one swift motion, Belado hoisted Albedo up over her shoulder. Albedo's body froze.
Her mind went blank for a second as she processed what had just happened. Then—pure outrage. "—YOU INSOLENT—!! PUT ME DOWN THIS INSTANT!!"
Belado only laughed as she adjusted her grip, effortlessly carrying her like a sack of supplies. "Oh? Now you suddenly have energy?" She patted Albedo's back mockingly. "You should've picked one when you had the chance~."
Albedo struggled, but her exhausted body refused to fight back properly, only able to squirm helplessly in Belado's grasp. "You—!! This is unacceptable—!! I will have your head for this!!" Belado hummed in amusement, completely unfazed. "Mmm~. Sure, sure. You can try once we get back."
As the portal began to shimmer open once more, Belado casually glanced at it, then back at the furious Albedo slung over her shoulder.
"...I hope for your sake that no one is waiting on the other side," Belado mused playfully. "Because if they are~? Oh, I would love to see the look on their faces."
Albedo went still. For the first time, a different kind of horror settled in her chest. If Ainz-sama saw her like this—if anyone in Nazarick saw her like this—if Shalltear saw her like this
"Belado," Albedo hissed, her voice dangerously low. "If you do not release me this instant—" Belado only grinned. "Too late~."
And with that, she stepped forward—and crossed through the portal from the fake Amphitheater to the real one.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by smiling chibi Belado carrying a protesting chibi Albedo)
As Belado stepped through the portal, the swirling energy dissipated behind her, revealing the familiar sight of Nazarick's Amphitheater. The grand structure stood in eerie silence, its usual ominous atmosphere now tinged with anticipation.
Waiting just beyond the portal, a gathering of familiar figures stood in stunned silence. Demiurge's calculating eyes widened ever so slightly, the ever-present smirk on his lips faltering as he processed the sight before him. Pandora's Actor, ever the theatrical one, covered his mouth in exaggerated shock.
Shalltear—oh, Shalltear—her crimson eyes gleamed with an unholy mixture of amusement and absolute delight. A slow, wicked grin spread across her lips as she took in the glorious sight before her.
And at the center of them all, Ainz Ooal Gown himself stood motionless, his expression unreadable. Belado, still carrying a fuming, humiliated Albedo over her shoulder, took a single step forward, tilted her head, and smiled.
"Oh my, what a welcoming party," she purred. "Did you all miss us?" Albedo, realizing exactly how this looked, thrashed violently, her voice rising in a desperate attempt to salvage her pride. "BELADO, YOU INSOLENT WRETCH—PUT ME DOWN THIS INSTANT!!"
Belado simply patted Albedo's back, thoroughly enjoying the moment. "Now, now, my other self~. No need to be so dramatic." Shalltear burst out laughing. "Oh, this is priceless! I never thought I'd see Albedo in such a pitiful state—hoisted up like a sack of meat~!"
Demiurge adjusted his glasses, glancing between Belado and the defeated Albedo with an expression of deep contemplation. "...This is quite an unexpected development."
Pandora's Actor made a show of pretending to faint. "Oh, mein Gott! Our esteemed Overseer, reduced to this?! How scandalous~!"
Albedo, her face burning with rage and embarrassment, whipped her head toward Ainz, desperate for any command, any words to restore her dignity.
Ainz, for his part, had been silent. The Supreme Being observed the scene before him, his glowing eyes flickering between Albedo and Belado.
After a long pause, he let out a slow, deliberate sigh.
"...Belado," Ainz finally spoke, his voice steady. "Would you mind explaining why you are carrying my Albedo like that?" Belado grinned. "Oh, this?" She bounced Albedo slightly on her shoulder, earning another furious snarl. "She lost."
Silence.
Demiurge's eyes narrowed slightly, analyzing the weight of that statement. Shalltear's smirk grew impossibly wider. And Ainz, after another moment of silence, tilted his head. "...I see."
Albedo, filled with unmatched fury, let out a strangled scream. "SHE HUMILIATED ME, AINZ-SAMA!! PLEASE, LET ME HAVE ANOTHER CHANCE—"
Belado snickered. "Oh, don't be so salty, my other self~. I even gave you a choice on how you wanted to be carried, remember?"
Shalltear wiped away a fake tear, cackling. "Oh, Albedo~. I have to say, I much prefer this version of you~."
Albedo, near the brink of losing her mind, turned to Ainz once more, her voice desperate. "AINZ-SAMA!!"
Ainz sighed again, rubbing his nonexistent temple. "Belado," he said finally, "...put her down."
Belado pouted playfully. "Aww. And here I was, thinking of keeping her as a trophy~."
But, at his command, she finally complied, tilting Albedo off her shoulder and letting her drop unceremoniously to the ground.
Albedo hit the floor with a grunt, quickly scrambling to her feet and turning to kneel before Ainz, trying desperately to reclaim whatever pride she had left.
Belado, meanwhile, crossed her arms, watching the whole scene unfold with immense satisfaction.
"Well," she mused, "that was fun." Belado's playful smirk faded slightly as she turned to face Ainz, her posture shifting into something more formal. She placed a fist over her chest and bowed slightly.
"My deepest apologies, my lord. I let my emotions get the better of me and lost my temper..." she said, her voice calm but firm.
Then, she straightened and turned her gaze toward Albedo, who was still on her knees, being healed by Mare. Albedo's face twisted in a mix of fury and lingering pain, but she said nothing.
"But," Belado continued, her golden eyes narrowing, "I will not apologize for Albedo's actions in insulting my master. I never once spoke ill of you, Lord Ainz, nor have I disrespected Nazarick. And yet, she spat on my master as if he was filth."
Her expression hardened. "That, I will not tolerate. No matter who it comes from."
The room fell into silence. Demiurge observed the exchange carefully, his sharp mind already analyzing the deeper implications. Shalltear, still entertained, simply smirked, resting her chin on her hand. Mare flinched slightly, clearly uncomfortable with the tension in the air, but continued his healing spell without pause.
Ainz remained quiet for a long moment, glowing red eyes flickering between Belado and Albedo. Finally, he exhaled another slow sigh. "I understand," Ainz said simply. Belado blinked. "...You do?"
Ainz nodded. "Albedo's devotion to me can sometimes cloud her judgment. She speaks with... passion, but in this case, her words may have been ill-chosen."
Albedo flinched. "Ainz-sama, I—" Ainz held up a hand, stopping her. "I am not saying I am upset with you, Albedo. But I can see why Belado took offense." He then turned to Belado. "Likewise, I understand why you reacted as you did. You are loyal to your master, just as Albedo is to me."
Belado's tense posture loosened slightly. "...Well, at least someone understands," she muttered, then firms her voice once more "But since I have committed what I shouldn't have, I don't expect you to let me go that easily, so tell me, my lord, what do I have to do to earn the right to leave and return home?"
Ainz let out a slow breath, as if contemplating. "You are correct, Belado. After what has transpired, I cannot simply allow you to leave as if nothing happened."
Belado nodded once, unfazed. "Then what would you have me do?"
Demiurge adjusted his glasses, eyes glinting with calculation. "Ainz-sama, allowing her to leave without consequence would set a dangerous precedent. She has bested our Overseer in combat, humiliated her in front of Nazarick, and exposed herself as a wielder of an unknown magic system. Her departure should not be so simple."
Shalltear sneered. "Let me drain her dry. That would be a fitting consequence."
Cocytus let out a low growl. "Battle... Worthy. Yet... Insolence... Must Be Met... With Retribution."
Aura crossed her arms. "Tch. She comes here, beats up Albedo, and just leaves? That's kinda annoying."
Even Sebas, ever composed, studied Belado with a guarded expression.
Ainz raised a hand, silencing them all. His glowing crimson eyes focused on Belado, who stood firm, unfaltering in the face of their judgment. "Belado," Ainz finally spoke. "You have already acknowledged your mistake, yet you do not regret your actions."
Belado nodded. "That is correct, my lord. I will not apologize for defending my master's honor." Ainz closed his eyes for a brief moment before exhaling. "Then, your penance will not be an apology."
He opened his eyes. "Instead, you will earn your right to leave by offering me something of equal value to what you have taken from Nazarick today."
Belado's brows lifted slightly. "And what is it that you desire, my lord?" Ainz's voice was steady. "Knowledge." A flicker of understanding passed through Belado's gaze.
"You wield a magic system we do not comprehend. You have traveled across dimensions with an ease that even the greatest magic casters of Yggdrasil could not achieve. Your world has developed techniques and technologies foreign to us." His skeletal fingers tapped lightly against the armrest of his throne. "Share with me what you know. In return, I will allow you to leave... unopposed."
Silence fell once more. Belado considered his words carefully. "You ask for knowledge of my world's magic and technology?" Ainz nodded. "Yes. I do not require everything—only enough to satisfy an exchange worthy of what you have taken."
Belado was quiet for a moment. Then, she smirked slightly. "Very well, my lord. If that is your demand, I accept."
Belado pulls out from her magical vault a book and a file and hands it to Ainz "This book is the 'Spell-Making formulas', the one authored by my master Arto Abyssgard, used to make spells to order in moments, whatever you want, you can make it using the formulas, the work of years can be reduced to mere minutes, even seconds when you're professional. This book contains all the you need to know about the magic system of our world, or more like the way my master perceives magic, like a type of science instead of mythical art, but using it would need a little work since you have to translate the magic symbols here into ones familiar with you, but when it's done....imagination will be the only limit"
Belado then hands Ainz the file "This contains the current version of INA, I can't provide you more than this because it's all there is for now, more improvement will come in the future when I return home and inform Nami, the author of INA, the result of my search, but the general idea of interdimensional navigating is in here"
Ainz took the book and the file carefully, his glowing red eyes scanning their covers with intense curiosity. The weight of the knowledge in his hands was almost overwhelming.
Demiurge adjusted his glasses, already intrigued. "Spell-making formulas... You are saying that, with this, one can craft spells freely, like constructing a tool?"
Belado nodded. "Exactly. My master, Arto Abyssgard, viewed magic not as something divine or mysterious, but as a system—one that can be analyzed, improved, and customized at will. With these formulas, magic becomes flexible. You are no longer limited to existing spells. You can create what you need on the spot."
Ainz's skeletal fingers tightened slightly over the book. If this were true, it could fundamentally change everything about how magic was used in this world.
Belado then motioned toward the file. "As for INA—the Interdimensional Navigating Algorithm—it's still a work in progress. But this version will give you an understanding of how dimensional travel works. If you can decode it and refine it, you might be able to replicate interdimensional movement on your own."
Demiurge's eyes gleamed behind his glasses. "Fascinating... This goes beyond a simple exchange of knowledge. This is revolutionary."
Ainz nodded slowly, his mind already calculating the possibilities. "Belado... you have given me far more than I expected." He looked up at her. "This knowledge is invaluable. If what you claim is true, you have indeed earned your right to leave."
Belado smirked. "Told you I play fair."
Ainz exhaled, placing the book and file carefully aside. "You will still remain here until I have verified the contents, but once I am satisfied, you will be free to go."
Belado shrugged. "Fine by me. Take your time."
Albedo, now fully healed, clenched her fists but said nothing, merely lowering her head.
Ainz looked at the book again, a sense of excitement stirring within him. This knowledge... it could change the very foundations of magic in this world.
For now, he will study. And soon, he would see just how far this knowledge could take him.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Ainz reading the book and the file Belado gave intently)
Ainz stands at his desk with the spell-crafting book opened to him, the one in which symbols were translated to more familiar ones to Ainz, he starts thinking of a spell he wants to make, something outside what he knows and looks through the book to find the formulas he needs, and his hand starts weaving as symbols start being put together
"First, converting what I desire into mana flows using formula 1..." Ainz murmurs as she starts converting smoothly with formula 1 as what he envisioned slowly breaks down into strings of blue light
"Second, the elemental alignment using formula 7..." He wove together strands of Spatial and Temporal Magic, concepts that usually remained separate.
"Third, the effect using formula 29..." This was the true experiment.
"Third, the effect using formula 29..." This was the true experiment. He wanted to craft a spell that could briefly halt time—not in the way of a simple Time Stop, but something more flexible, something conditional.
Ainz focused. The air hummed as he added a Trigger Condition with formula 10, something akin to a pre-set command.
The final glyph clicked into place, the entire formula glowing as if acknowledging completion. Ainz took a step back, inspecting his work. This was no mere copy of an existing spell—this was something new.
His mind raced. If I test this now... His skeletal fingers reached out, and with a single word— "Chrono Bind."
The moment he cast it, reality itself seemed to distort slightly, as if the flow of time trembled for a brief second before stabilizing. Ainz narrowed his eyes.
It worked. The spell was set, its trigger condition waiting to activate. His lips curled into a grin. So this is the true power of spell-making... Ainz looks at the clock to see he only wasted 5 minutes to create this thing.
Ainz let out a slow breath as he marveled at the glowing symbols still fading in the air. Five minutes. Five mere minutes, and he had just created an original, high-tier spell—something that should have taken scholars centuries to refine.
His crimson eyes gleamed with excitement. "So this is the power of structured magic... No, this is the power of treating magic as a science."
He clenched his fist slightly, feeling the residual hum of mana around him. Chrono Bind. A spell that didn't simply stop time but could be woven with conditional triggers, allowing for precision and flexibility. It was a step beyond what he had known, something that could change the tide of battle in ways even Time Stop could not.
Ainz turned back to the book, scanning through the formulas again. "If I can do this in five minutes, what else is possible?"
Demiurge had been correct—this was revolutionary. Nazarick's greatest strength had always been its vast repository of knowledge, but this... this opened new doors. No longer would he be bound by the spell limitations of Yggdrasil. With enough time and understanding, he could create anything.
A thought struck him, and his grin widened. "What if I applied this to Super-Tier Magic?" He wonders as possibilities flooding his mind
The mere concept of it sent a thrill through him. He closed the book gently, placing a hand over it. "Arto Abyssgard... just what kind of mind do you possess?"
Belado had said her master treated magic as science. If Ainz could grasp this mentality fully, Nazarick's future would be boundless.
Ainz open the book, his eyes filled with excitement as he calls upon a magic circle, a spell of tier-1, Magic Arrow, a simple spell, nothing special about it "Let's see how powerful I can make you" Ainz thinks as he breaks down the spell using the formulas to see how it truly works, how each symbol contributes to the whole of the spell.
"I see, then if I add this..." Ainz puts a symbol into the circle, adjusting it the the right position, armor penetration was added to the spell.
Ainz's skeletal fingers traced the glowing arcane symbols, his mind racing with calculations. The structured magic system that Belado had introduced to him was unlike anything he had ever encountered. Each symbol, each formula, was a piece of a larger mechanism—a finely tuned machine that dictated how a spell functioned.
The Magic Arrow before him was simple, a mere Tier-1 spell, but in this system, it was not a static, unchangeable ability. It was a foundation, a blueprint that could be modified, expanded, and refined.
With careful precision, Ainz inserted an additional rune into the formula, altering the spell's structure. Armor Penetration—a property that normally only existed in high-tier spells—was now a part of this basic attack magic.
"Fascinating..."
The glowing circle trembled slightly as the magic adjusted to the new parameters, stabilizing under his control. Ainz's crimson eyes gleamed. "A low-tier spell... enhanced beyond its original limits."
But he wasn't done yet.
He examined the spell further, breaking it apart in his mind. "If I reinforce the mana flow here... and adjust the velocity output..." He moved his finger over the symbols, adding a sequence that increased the projectile's speed.
The Magic Arrow pulsed with energy, its form sharpening.
Ainz let out a quiet chuckle. "And what if I—" His hands moved swiftly, adding an explosive impact upon hitting the target. The spell circle shifted, adapting to the new instructions.
He felt it—the spell was no longer just a simple arrow. It was now a piercing, high-speed projectile that detonated on contact. A Tier-1 spell, modified far beyond its original limitations.
Ainz slowly closed his hand, allowing the spell to dissolve into shimmering motes of light.
"If I can do this with Magic Arrow... what can I accomplish with high-tier spells?"
His mind raced with possibilities. He could rework traditional Super-Tier spells, eliminate their weaknesses, and improve their efficiency. He could craft entirely new magic—abilities never before seen in Yggdrasil or this world.
"This...this changes everything" Ainz takes a deep breathe, trying to suppress the urge to try more, to learn more, to make more using the Spell-Making Formulas, he turns to his communicator "Pandora's Actor, reporting in"
He appears before his creator and bows "How is the progress of analyzing INA going?" Ainz asks
Pandora's Actor straightened, his usual theatrical flair momentarily subdued as he stood before his creator. "Ainz-sama!" he saluted crisply. "The analysis of INA is progressing smoothly, though I must admit—this system is beyond anything I have encountered before. Even with my vast intellect—bestowed upon me by none other than your supreme genius—deciphering its full potential will require additional time."
Ainz nodded, arms crossed. "Explain."
Pandora's Actor adjusted his monocle, his expression serious. "INA does not operate on conventional magical theory, nor does it rely solely on Yggdrasil's world laws. Instead, it functions through a mixture of dimensional anchor points, mana stabilization fields, and an unfamiliar form of energy conversion mechanics. In short—" He gestured dramatically. "—it is a bridge! A finely tuned mechanism that maps the boundaries of different worlds and calculates safe pathways between them."
Ainz narrowed his crimson eyes. "You're saying it's not just a tool for interdimensional travel... it's a system capable of navigating the multiverse?"
"Precisely, mein Vater!" Pandora's Actor nodded excitedly. "From what I've uncovered, INA continuously scans the surrounding dimensional fabric, searching for stable exit points. Unlike typical portal spells, which create a fixed gateway, INA can adjust the trajectory mid-travel, ensuring safe arrival even if the initial destination is compromised!"
Demiurge adjusted his glasses, intrigued. "A self-correcting teleportation system...? That would remove the risk of interdimensional displacement. Remarkable."
Ainz then asks "What about the portal? We have the algorithm, what about the portal? Do the files Belado gave us have it?"
Pandora's Actor nods "Yes, there is, and we are constructing it at the moment" Ainz leaned forward slightly, his glowing red eyes gleaming with interest. "You've already begun construction?"
Pandora's Actor puffed his chest out proudly. "But of course, Ainz-sama! The INA system's blueprints provided by Belado contained detailed schematics for a stable interdimensional portal framework. Our researchers—under my superb leadership, naturally—have already begun assembling the foundational components."
Demiurge adjusted his glasses. "And how long until it is fully operational?"
Pandora's Actor tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Given the complexity of the structure and the modifications required to integrate it with Nazarick's existing magic, I estimate... approximately one week for a prototype. If all goes well, we can begin initial testing soon after."
Ainz nodded, absorbing the information. A fully functional interdimensional portal—capable of safely navigating the multiverse—was within reach. This was beyond what he had ever imagined.
"I see everything was going on really well" Ainz turns back to see Belado approaching him. Ainz turned his gaze toward her. "I will admit, Belado, this knowledge is more valuable than I initially expected. Your master's work is... extraordinary."
Belado smirked. "Of course it is." she walks closer to him and asks "So, now that I have offered the knowledge, am I allowed to leave and return to my home world now?"
Ainz studied Belado for a long moment. His glowing red eyes flickered, as if considering his next words carefully.
"You have upheld your end of the bargain," he finally said, his voice measured. "And as I am a ruler who honors his agreements... Yes, you are free to leave."
Belado gave a small nod, satisfied. "Good. I have my own world to return to, after all. Goodbye, lord Ainz Ooal Gown of Nazarick, my stay here was fun and enlightening." Without another world, she disappears from Nazarick without a trace.
The moment Belado was gone, Ainz turns back to his Guardians "Let's get back to work, everyone, we have a bright future waiting ahead of us" Demiurge and Pandora's Actor teleport back to their work while Ainz opens the Spell-Making Formulas to read, only to see the letters in the book shifting into chaotic forms, words change into distorted shapes, diagrams and numbers were twisted and start running around chaotically.
Worse, the formulas he remembers are slipping quickly from his mind, changing themselves into the distorted forms like the book. Ainz rubs his temple as the surge of effect washes through his mind, altering everything he has mesmerized.
"What's happening?" Ainz tries to process what was happening, suddenly he heard Demiurge's voice through the communicator "Lord Ainz, the documents of INA, something happened to it, something we can't explain"
Ainz calms himself down "Do the letters and symbols start shifting and twisting, before running around chaotically, merging among themselves into distorted shapes and separating into even more twisted symbols and the process goes on? By the end of it, memories of them start changing as well?"
Demiurge's voice was filled with surprise "Yes, my lord, how did you know?" Ainz firms his voice "That's exactly what is happening with the Spell-Making Formulas, Demiurge. Check the copies we made for the documents!" Ainz commands with urgency "Yes, my lord" Demiurge hangs up
"What did you do, Belado?" Ainz thinks as Demiurge's voice comes through the communicator once more "My lord, we have lost them, all the copies are in the same state as the one Belado gave us, what's happening, my lord?"
Ainz sighs in frustration as he says "We've been played, Belado tricked us. Gather in the throne room now, we need to find a way to deal with this"
Ainz sat upon his throne, his fingers laced together as he processed the situation. His red eyes gleamed with cold calculation, but beneath that, irritation stirred—a rare emotion for the Overlord of Nazarick.
One by one, the Floor Guardians arrived, each of them sensing the shift in their master's mood.
Demiurge was first, adjusting his glasses as he bowed deeply. "Ainz-sama, I have confirmed it—every copy of the Spell-Making Formulas and INA documents have suffered the same effect. Whatever mechanism Belado used, it applies universally. Even Pandora's Actor and I were unable to preserve a single piece of readable information before it became corrupted."
Shalltear clicked her tongue, arms crossed. "Tch. I knew we should've just killed her."
Albedo, still recovering from the humiliation Belado had dealt her, knelt beside the throne, seething in silent rage. "That woman... dared to insult Ainz-sama and now she makes a fool of us?"
Aura huffed. "So what now? We just lost all that knowledge? That's so annoying!"
Mare fidgeted beside her. "M-Maybe there's a way to r-recover it...?"
Cocytus let out a low rumble. "Deception... Unexpected. Yet... A Strategy... Worthy Of... Caution."
Pandora's Actor stood near Demiurge, deep in thought. "This is unlike any countermeasure I've encountered before, mein Vater. The corruption is not just on the pages—it exists within our memories. Even if we try to recall what we read, our minds twist the information into nonsense."
Ainz nodded. That was the most disturbing part. This was no ordinary illusion or anti-copying magic. It rewrote what they had learned, making it impossible to retain any functional understanding of the knowledge Belado had given them.
Ainz finally spoke, his voice calm but laced with intrigue.
"...No, we have not been played." The room fell silent at his words. Demiurge adjusted his glasses. "Ainz-sama?"
Ainz tapped his bony fingers on the armrest. "If Belado simply wished to deceive us, she could have given us completely useless information from the beginning. But she didn't. The knowledge was real—I tested it myself. It was only after she left that it became unusable."
The implications sank in. Demiurge's eyes widened in realization. "You mean... this is a security measure."
Ainz nodded. "Exactly. Belado never intended for us to keep what she gave. She allowed us to experience its potential but ensured that once she was gone, we could no longer use it. In short... this was a temporary demonstration."
Shalltear scoffed. "That arrogant...! She let us taste the power, then yanked it away?!"
"Can't we decipher it, Lord Ainz?" Albedo asks weakly, her wounds from the battle against Belado are still there "That won't be possible, Lady Albedo" Demiurge says as he comes towards the throne "I found this letter at the last page of INA's document"
Ainz receives the letter from Demiurge and opens it, and it reads:
—
To Ainz-sama and the Guardians of Nazarick,
First, I must offer my sincerest apologies. I never intended to deceive you or mock your intelligence. The actions I took—altering the knowledge, hiding the truth—were not done out of malice, but out of necessity.
I understand that your world has always been one of boundless ambition, and I have witnessed firsthand the speed at which you and your Guardians adapt and absorb knowledge. That is why, after careful consideration, I decided to hide the information I provided. The knowledge I gave you—the Spell-Making Formulas, the INA—was not meant to be exploited or weaponized against my world.
The reason is simple. I have seen what you are capable of, Ainz-sama, and what Nazarick can do with this knowledge. You would be a force unmatched. In my world, there are forces that could never withstand the power you could unlock with that knowledge. You would be unstoppable, and I cannot allow that to happen. Not to my world, not to my master.
Regarding the code you now possess, I must urge you not to try to decipher it. It was intentionally designed this way, and it is not something that even my own people can read. Only my master, Arto Abyssgard, can decipher it—and even then, it is a closely guarded secret. The Abyssgard Code is shifting, changing constantly and chaotically, to ensure that no one—no matter how powerful—will ever be able to crack it.
You will never be able to decipher it. I am sorry.
Please understand that this decision was made with my world's survival in mind, and I hope that, despite the deceit, we can part ways with mutual respect.
Belado
—
Ainz silently read the letter, his glowing crimson eyes scanning the words over and over again. Each line was a calculated strike, every sentence a careful, deliberate move—Belado had planned everything. From the very beginning.
The throne room remained eerily silent, save for the occasional flicker of magical energy pulsing through the air. The Guardians around him had differing reactions.
Albedo clenched her fists, her wounded body trembling with barely contained rage. "That woman...! After all the humiliation, after all the deception, she dares to act as though she is some noble protector?!"
Demiurge adjusted his glasses, a thoughtful hum escaping him. "Hoh... this is quite fascinating. She acknowledges the inevitability of our rise to power and has taken precautionary steps to prevent it. A wise move, I must admit."
Shalltear scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Hmph. A coward's move, if you ask me. Instead of facing us head-on, she runs and hides behind locked doors."
Cocytus rumbled, his deep voice carrying a note of respect. "Tactically... Sound. Yet... Frustrating."
Sebas, as always, remained composed, though there was a faint tension in his posture. "It seems she truly believes what she did was the right course of action."
Ainz let out a slow breath, trying to suppress the mixture of irritation and begrudging admiration stirring within him. Belado wasn't just strong—she was intelligent, cautious, and, above all, loyal. She had played him perfectly, feeding him just enough knowledge to tantalize, only to rip it away at the last second.
And what's worse? It worked.
He looked down at the book and file, now no more useful than scraps of paper, and clicked his tongue in frustration. The shifting, unreadable nature of the Abyssgard Code made it virtually impossible to crack—Belado hadn't just locked the knowledge away. She had made sure that no one could ever retrieve it.
Ainz closed his eyes, allowing himself a brief moment of contemplation before speaking.
"She played us," he admitted, voice eerily calm. "She knew exactly what she was doing, and she executed it flawlessly. I was too arrogant, too blinded by the promise of knowledge, and because of that, I underestimated her."
Albedo's eyes widened. "Ainz-sama, you—"
"It was my mistake," Ainz interrupted, his voice firm. "I assumed she would simply hand over her world's secrets without any contingency plan. I was wrong."
A heavy silence settled over the room as the weight of his words sank in.
Demiurge, ever the strategist, cleared his throat. "Ainz-sama, if I may... this does confirm one thing: we are a threat. Belado's actions prove that even in her world, they fear what we are capable of. That alone is invaluable information."
Ainz tapped his skeletal fingers against the armrest of his throne, considering Demiurge's words. "True... it means there is something in that world worth protecting. Something powerful enough to be wary of Nazarick."
Mare, who had remained quiet until now, spoke up hesitantly. "B-But... d-does this mean we can't ever learn about their magic or the INA...?"
Ainz sighed. "For now, yes. We cannot decipher the knowledge she left us. But that does not mean we give up."
The atmosphere in the throne room turned heavier. Albedo gritted her teeth, humiliated all over again. Ainz opened his glowing red eyes, his gaze filled with a newfound resolve as he summoned the magic circles of 2 spells he made using the formulas, Chrono Bind and enhanced Magic Arrow.
He casts them both to see they still work "They still work" Ainz sighed, the irritation returning. "We might have lost the formulas and the interdimensional travelling algorithm, but there is something we know, something that Belado showed us, the formulas and the possibility of dimensional travelling, they exist, and all we have to do us finding our way to it"
His gaze down to his Guardians "That's what we are going to do, digging back down what she left behind and creating our own formulas and our own dimensional travelling method"
The Guardians all straightened at Ainz's declaration. The weight of their failure still lingered, but Ainz's words ignited a new determination among them.
Albedo bowed deeply, her golden eyes burning with renewed purpose. "Understood, Ainz-sama! I will not allow her arrogance to stand unchallenged. We will reclaim what was stolen from us—and surpass it."
Demiurge smirked, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. "Ahh, I see... this is no longer about simple knowledge acquisition. We will rebuild what was lost, but in a way that makes it truly our own." His mind was already racing with possibilities. "Fascinating. If we reverse-engineer the spells you managed to create before the formulas became unreadable, we may uncover the logic behind them. From there, it is only a matter of experimentation."
Shalltear tilted her head, crossing her arms. "Tch, sounds tedious. But if it means we won't be made fools of again, then I'll assist however I can."
Cocytus gave a firm nod. "We Shall... Grow Stronger... From This Defeat."
Sebas, always dutiful, bowed. "Ainz-sama, if we are to pursue dimensional travel, would you have us begin researching alternative methods from what we already know of Yggdrasil's magic?"
Ainz leaned forward, his skeletal fingers tapping against the armrest of his throne. "Yes. Start with everything we already understand about space-time manipulation and teleportation. Look into World Items, Super-Tier magic, and anything from Yggdrasil that could be remotely related. Even if Belado erased the blueprints of INA, we now know for certain that dimensional travel is possible. That knowledge alone is invaluable."
Mare fidgeted slightly before speaking up. "U-Um... Ainz-sama, w-we could also study the way Yggdrasil connected to this world! I-It might give us clues on how to r-recreate interdimensional movement...!"
Ainz turned to Mare, his eyes glowing brighter. "That's an excellent idea, Mare. If we can understand how I was transported to this world in the first place, we might be able to reverse-engineer the process."
Albedo stepped forward. "Ainz-sama, I will personally oversee the research and development team. We will not only reclaim what was lost, but we will improve upon it. Nazarick will rise above Belado's interference."
Ainz exhaled slowly. "Good. Then, let's begin. We are not simply reclaiming stolen knowledge—we are paving the path to something even greater." His red eyes glowed intensely.
"Belado, you may have taken back your secrets, but all you have done is confirm that limitless possibilities exist. You were right to fear us. Because soon, we will not just find our way to your world... we will surpass everything you sought to protect."
Meanwhile
Belado–Albedo returns to her world with a smirk "You think I would just let my master's knowledge slip away like that? Abyssgard code has done its job yet again" she mutters while closing the interdimensional portal behind her, shutting down the only connection between their worlds.
"Master is indeed one of a kind, he knew things like this would come around, and he made the temporary authorizing to ensure they have the glimpse of his brilliance before shutting it out permanently"
"You're finally home, Albedo, we're so worried." Albedo looks at the entrance of the sector to see Rias is already there "You said you would be gone for just a few days, but you disappeared for 3 weeks straight, what happened? "
Albedo blinks at what Rias was saying "What are you talking about, I was gone for only 5 days, how can it be 3 weeks?"
Chapter 34: The ship
Summary:
Robin and Nami's adventure to a new world
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Right after Albedo left to explore the new world
Nami examines the situation on Albedo's side "Well, her reading is stable, she should be able to handle herself from here" Nami gets her hands off the control panel as she starts tapping playfully, trying to find something else to do.
Robin, who stands nearby, looks at Nami and lets out a playful smirk "We're done here for now, maybe it's time you go back to tending to those financial papers regarding Sitri hospitals, you know, those that you promised to help"
Nami lets out a groan "But that thing is boring, especially when it's about debts, besides, it's Saturday, don't I get to relax?" she complains
Robin raises an eyebrow, her smirk widening. "Oh? You mean like how you promised to get those reports done before the weekend?"
Nami groans dramatically, flopping onto one of the nearby chairs. "Ughhh, you sound just like Grayfia."
Robin adjusts her glasses. "I'll take that as a compliment."
Nami crosses her arms, pouting. "Come on, Robin. Albedo just left for an adventure, and we're stuck here dealing with boring paperwork? It's so unfair."
Robin chuckles, flipping through her book. "If you want excitement, you can always head into the simulation room and spar with Erza. I heard she's been itching for a real challenge."
Nami immediately denies "Nope, nope, not in a million year I can fight Erza, what do you expect, I'm more of a back line supporter and you expect me to face a knight head on, she will slice me to pieces before I even make the first move"
Robin smirks, closing her book with a soft thud. "Oh? So the fearless Nami, master of interdimensional navigation and finance, is afraid of a little swordplay?"
Nami scoffs. "Afraid? No. Realistic? Yes. There's a difference." She leans back in her chair, crossing her arms. "I mean, come on, it's Erza. I'd be better off trying to bribe her to go easy on me than actually fighting her."
Robin chuckles. "Tempting, but I doubt even your financial expertise could buy Erza off when it comes to combat. She takes her training very seriously."
Nami groans. "Exactly my point. If I step into that ring with her, my funeral expenses are going straight to you."
Robin tilts her head in amusement. "I'll be sure to deduct it from your pending paperwork balance."
Nami lets out an exaggerated wail. "Why is everything I do just leading me back to paperwork?!"
Robin then tries to pull Nami out of her chair, but the orange-haired genius keeps protesting until her eyes lay back on the control panel of INA, an idea sparks in her eyes "Hey, Robin, how about we go on our own adventure, like what Albedo did?"
"You mean we scan ourselves and travel to meet our counterparts?" Robin asks as her grip on Nami's arms lighten "Yeah, aren't you curious about how our counterparts would be?" Nami asks with excitement, Robin thinks for a moment before turning to Nami with an amused grin.
"You've piqued my curiosity, now, let us scan, you go first" she offers the scanning pedestal, but Nami takes Robin's hand "There is no need, we can scan together, maybe we can find a world where we both exist"
Robin raises an eyebrow but doesn't resist as Nami drags her toward the scanning pedestal. "Are you sure this is a good idea?" Robin asks, adjusting her glasses.
Nami grins. "Absolutely, it's rare for us to have an adventure together, so this is that chance"
The two step onto the pedestal, and almost instantly, the system hums to life. The arcane runes surrounding the platform pulse with energy as INA begins its analysis. Data streams race across the floating displays, reading their magical signatures and searching for potential worlds.
Robin watches as the swirling projections shift, sorting through countless possibilities. "This might take a while. Unlike Albedo, we don't have the same magical resonance, so finding a world where we both exist could be somewhere hard to find"
As INA continues its analysis, the data streams flicker rapidly, scanning through countless potential destinations. Robin watches intently while Nami impatiently taps her foot, waiting for something interesting to appear.
Then, a sharp beep cuts through the hum of the machinery.
"Look at this, Robin!" Nami exclaims, pointing at the holographic display as a new projection stabilizes.
The image of a vast ocean-covered world appears before them, dotted with countless islands of varying sizes. A massive landmass splits the globe vertically, while a luminous blue band circles it horizontally, dividing the sea into four sections.
Robin leans in, adjusting her glasses. "This is... unusual."
Nami rapidly swipes through the details. "INA has identified strong dimensional resonance for both of us here. The world is mostly ocean, with a complex island system and an advanced naval presence." Her eyes gleam with excitement. "It's a world of adventure, exploration, and treasure hunting!"
Robin raises an eyebrow. "A pirate-based civilization?"
Nami grins. "More than that. This place has a unique energy field—it's not quite magic, but something similar. It looks like people in this world can develop incredible abilities through a mysterious energy source."
Robin studies the topographical map, noting the distinct land formations. "This vertical landmass splits the ocean in two—it's a massive geological barrier. And this horizontal ring... it looks artificial, almost like a man-made structure or natural phenomenon dividing the seas."
Nami swipes to another screen. "INA's records show that this world is driven by exploration, treasure hunting, and powerful factions fighting for dominance. There are massive naval forces, secret organizations, and legendary locations hidden across the ocean." She smirks. "Sounds like my kind of place."
Robin hums thoughtfully. "If we both exist here, our counterparts could be historians, navigators, or perhaps something entirely different. There's no telling what roles we might play in this world's power struggles."
Nami turns to her with an eager grin. "Only one way to find out. What do you say, Robin? Ready to set sail?"
Robin chuckles. "As long as you don't try to swindle the first people we meet." Nami winks. "No promises."
With that, the portal hums to life, swirling into a gateway of shimmering blue energy. Robin and Nami exchange one last glance before stepping forward—into a world of adventure, danger, and boundless possibilities.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Nami and chibi Robin riding a boat)
The portal's swirling energy fades, and Nami and Robin find themselves on the sprawling deck of a large ship.
A soft breeze carries the scent of saltwater and sun-warmed wood. The deck is surprisingly spacious, complete with a grassy lawn area in the center—something neither of them expected on a seafaring vessel. Two curved staircases lead up to higher levels, and a massive mast towers overhead.
Nami takes a slow turn, her gaze sweeping across the surroundings. "Well, this is new. A ship with a lawn? That's a first for me."
Robin nods, adjusting her glasses as she studies the architecture. "The design is... whimsical, but surprisingly sturdy. Whoever built this must have had an unusual combination of engineering skill and imagination."
At the ship's rail, they can see the vast ocean stretching out in every direction—endless blue as far as the eye can see. The gentle rocking beneath their feet confirms they're already out at sea, though no land is visible on the horizon.
"Think this belongs to our counterparts?" Nami wonders aloud, stepping forward to inspect a decorative figurehead at the ship's prow. She can't quite see it from here, but the bright, cheery paint suggests it's shaped like some kind of creature's head.
Robin shrugs. "It's possible. Or we might be intruding on someone else's domain. Either way, we should proceed carefully."
Nami makes a playful naval greeting posture "Aye aye captain Robin!" The raven-haired historian smiles and pinches Nami's cheek "You look so cute when you smile, you know that?"
Nami pouts, rubbing her cheek. "Hey! That's not fair, Robin. I was trying to be all pirate-like, and you're just distracting me!"
Robin chuckles, her deep blue eyes twinkling with amusement. "Oh? And here I thought you were already distracted by the thought of treasure."
Nami crosses her arms, huffing. "Well, obviously! I mean, come on, we're in a world of pirates! That means treasure maps, secret islands, and—ohhh, maybe even a legendary treasure hoard just waiting to be claimed." Her voice rises with excitement as she spins in place, taking in the ship's impressive build.
Robin smirks. "And here I thought you were more interested in navigating than looting."
Nami winks. "Why not both?"
"What are you 2 talking about, Robin, Nami? Can I join too? It seems really fun" Nami and Robin turn their gaze to the voice to see a reindeer like creature
Nami immediately loses it before the thing as she hoists it up in her arms and hugs it like a soft plush "Oh my god~! You're so cute"
The creature flails its tiny hooves in panic, his face turning bright red. "H-Hey! Put me down! I'm not a plushie!"
Nami squeezes him tighter, giggling. "But you're so soft! And your little hat is adorable!"
Robin chuckles, watching the scene unfold. "Nami, I think you're overwhelming him."
The reindeer creature struggles for a moment before managing to push himself free, landing on the deck with a little hop. Its crosses its arms and puffs out his cheeks. "I-Idiot! It's not like I like being called cute or anything!"
Nami clasps her hands together, absolutely delighted. "Oh no, now he's even cuter!"
Robin kneels down slightly, resting a hand on her chin as she observes Chopper. "A talking reindeer... so the information from INA was right. This world has beings with unique abilities beyond just magic."
Chopper tilts his head. "Huh? What are you talking about?"
Nami waves her hand dismissively. "Oh, don't worry about that! More importantly, you—little reindeer—what's your name?"
The creature raises an eyebrow "What are you talking about? It's me, Tony Tony Chopper, the doctor of Straw Hat Pirate, don't you recognize me, Nami, Robin?"
Nami and Robin exchange quick glances. This was the moment they had been anticipating—encountering their counterparts' connections in this world.
Robin, ever the composed one, tilts her head slightly. "Tony Tony Chopper, huh? A doctor... and a talking reindeer. Fascinating."
Nami, on the other hand, is still caught up in how adorable he is. "Wait, wait, wait. You're saying we know you?" she asks, pointing to herself and Robin.
Chopper blinks at them, his tiny hooves resting on his hips. "Of course you do! We've been crewmates for years! Are you two feeling okay?" His face scrunches up in concern, his doctorly instincts kicking in. "Did you hit your heads or something?"
Robin chuckles softly. "Not exactly."
Nami rubs the back of her neck, realizing that explaining interdimensional travel to Chopper might not be the best idea—at least, not yet. "Uh, yeah, we're fine! Just... a little disoriented, that's all. Long day."
Chopper squints at them suspiciously, but before he can question them further, a new voice calls out from somewhere above.
"Chopper, what are you doing down there? Come on up here, breakfast is ready" Nami's voice, Chopper turns to look at Nami "Wait, if that's Nami's voice over there, then..." his face loses color as he backs away from Robin and Nami "Who are you? Are you imposters that are trying to kidnap me?"
Nami immediately waves her hands in front of her, laughing nervously. "Whoa, whoa, let's not jump to conclusions here, okay? Kidnapping you? Absolutely not!"
Robin, ever calm, kneels slightly to meet Chopper's gaze. "It's understandable that you're confused. But we mean no harm."
Chopper, still suspicious, keeps his distance. "Then explain how there's another Nami up there, calling for me!"
Nami sighs, rubbing her temples. "Great, first adorable reindeer doctor, now identity crisis."
Before she can speak, the other Nami's voice calls out again, this time a bit more impatient. "Chopper? Where are you?"
The 3 look up to see an orange-haired beauty standing on the 2nd upper deck of the ship looking down.
"Chopper, come here quickly, who..." her eyes lay on the person who looks just like her standing with a person who looks just like Robin, she lost her words. Chopper quickly runs to Nami, he clings to the real Nami's leg, pointing frantically at the two lookalikes below. "Nami! Robin! They're imposters! They look just like you, but they're not you!"
The real Nami stares down at the two intruders, her sharp eyes narrowing. "What kind of joke is this?" Her hand instinctively moves to her Clima-Tact, ready for a fight if necessary.
The Nami on the deck—other Nami—raises both hands, laughing nervously. "Okay, okay, let's not jump to conclusions here! I know this looks really weird, but I swear we're not imposters!"
Robin, ever composed, offers a small smile. "It's true. We're not here to cause trouble."
The real Nami scoffs. "Yeah? Then explain why there's another me standing down there." Before other Nami can answer, another voice joins the fray, but this one us calmer
"Nami, Chopper, what's happening? Why are you yelling so early in the morning?" Robin's voice rings out as she come to the real Nami
Robin steps onto the deck, her usual composed expression momentarily faltering as her eyes land on the two figures below. Her gaze meets that of her doppelgänger—calm, analytical, and just as intrigued.
"Well," the real Robin muses, tilting her head slightly, "this is unexpected."
The two groups stand in silence for a moment, the salty ocean breeze the only thing moving between them.
Nami, however, is much less composed. She grips Chopper by the shoulders, eyes darting between her counterpart and the unfamiliar Robin. "Okay, what the hell is going on here?!"
The visiting Nami sighs, rubbing her temples. "Alright, let's get this out of the way before anyone tries to throw us overboard. We're not imposters. We're... from another world."
Silence.
Then, the real Nami bursts into laughter. "Hah! Good one! That's gotta be the worst excuse I've ever heard. You really expect me to believe—"
"She's telling the truth."
All eyes turn to the real Robin, who has now stepped closer to the railing, studying the two visitors with an almost eerie calm.
Chopper's ears perk up. "Wait... you believe them?"
Robin nods, a small smirk forming on her lips. "Interdimensional travel isn't that far-fetched, considering everything we've seen." She crosses her arms. "Besides... I can tell when someone's lying. And they're not."
The real Nami stares at her. "You can't be serious."
Robin just smiles knowingly.
The visiting Robin chuckles. "I suppose that means we can skip the part where we have to convince you."
The real Nami groans, rubbing her forehead. "Okay, fine. Let's pretend I believe this nonsense for a second. Why are you here?"
The visiting Nami shrugs. "Honestly? We were just curious. Our world has this technology that lets us travel here, and... well, here we are."
Chopper's nose twitches. "So you're really another Nami and Robin? From a different world?"
"Yep," the visiting Nami says with a grin.
The real Nami stares at her counterpart, still looking skeptical, but something about her own confident smirk reflecting back at her makes her uneasy.
"This is so weird..." Robin chuckles. "You're telling me."
Then, another voice joins in, louder, more energetic.
"Oi, what's with all the yelling? Breakfast is getting cold!"
Real Robin turns to the 2 visitors "Well, since you're here, how about you come to see our crew, they would love to meet you 2"
Nami adds "But before we go, let's make something clear, how can we address you 2? Practically we're all Nami and Robin here, so how can we tell each other apart?"
The visiting Nami steps up "Well, I've already thought of that so from now on, I'll be Mina and Robin here will be Nico, cool?"
The real Nami crosses her arms, raising an eyebrow. "Mina and Nico, huh? You just swapped a few letters from our names."
Mina grins. "Exactly! Easy to remember, right?"
Robin—the real one—chuckles softly. "Simple, yet effective." She then gestures towards the ship's interior. "Well then, Mina, Nico, shall we?"
Mina and Nico exchange glances before nodding. "Lead the way."
As the four make their way towards the dining area, Chopper still clings to Nami's leg, whispering, "I still think this is weird."
"Tell me about it," Nami mutters back.
The moment they step into the dining hall, chaos erupts.
Sanji, mid-spin while serving plates, freezes the second his eyes land on Mina. His cigarette almost falls from his lips. "N-Nami-san...? W-Wait... TWO NAMIS?!"
His eyes then shift to Nico, and if hearts could literally explode, his would have. "A-And TWO ROBINS?!?!"
The next moment, he collapses onto the floor, nosebleed launching him halfway across the room.
"Yep, saw that coming," Mina says, unfazed.
Usopp chokes on his drink. "What kind of prank is this? Did Franky build clones or something?!"
Franky leans back, adjusting his sunglasses. "Nah, man, even I couldn't make something this realistic. This is... SUPER weird."
Zoro, half-asleep with a drink in hand, lazily glances at them. "Tch. Great. Twice the headache." He closes his eyes again. "Wake me up when they start fighting over who's the real one."
Luffy, meanwhile, is grinning ear to ear. "WOAHHH! TWO NAMIS AND TWO ROBINS?! THIS IS AWESOME!" He rushes up to them, eyes sparkling with excitement. "Where'd you guys come from?! Can you fight?! Do you like meat?!"
Mina laughs. "One question at a time, captain."
Nico, ever composed, smiles at Luffy's energy. "It's nice to meet you too."
Brook suddenly steps forward, holding up a hand. "Excuse me, ladies! Since there are now two Namis and two Robins... would it be alright if I asked for four sets of panties?"
A whack from Nami sends him flying out of the room. "Do you really have to ask that every time there is a woman onboard !?" Nami shouts.
Meanwhile, Mina and 2 Robins giggle seeing the scene unfold, Nami turns to them "Don't tell me you're okay with him a ting that way"
Mina shakes her head "I'm not, but comparing to perverts from our world, he is quite a polite and adorable one"
The real Nami scoffs, placing her hands on her hips. "Polite and adorable?! He literally just asked us for our underwear!"
Mina shrugs with a playful grin. "At least he asks. Most perverts don't."
Robin—both of them—chuckle, while the rest of the crew bursts into laughter.
Franky wipes a tear from his eye. "Yohoho! She's got a point, Nami! Brook may be a perv, but he's got manners!"
Brook, despite being launched halfway across the room, quickly recovers, adjusting his hat with a dramatic flair. "Ah, thank you, Mina-san! Finally, someone who understands my refined gentlemanly nature! Though I must admit..." He pauses for effect. "I still have no eyes to see panties anyway! YOHOHOHOHO!"
Mina giggles, while Nami facepalms. "I walked right into that one."
Luffy, meanwhile, is still buzzing with excitement. "So Mina, Nico, do you guys have a crew back home too? Are they strong? Do they eat as much meat as us?!"
Mina crosses her arms, smirking. "We have our own group, yeah. But not pirates, and of course not on a rocking ship like this. About meat, we do eat meat, but not that much, our chef always ensure we have healthy portions each meal"
Luffy gasps dramatically, looking genuinely horrified. "Healthy portions?!" He turns to Mina like she just said the most offensive thing in the world. "What kinda crew limits meat?! That's not right!"
Sanji sighs, lighting a cigarette. "Sounds like your chef actually has common sense."
Mina chuckles. "Well, she has to. If she didn't, half of our group would live off nothing but junk food."
Luffy pouts. "That's how it should be."
Chopper nods in agreement. "Meat is important for energy, but a balanced diet is better..."
Luffy immediately glares at him. "Chopper. No."
Chopper flinches. "S-Sorry!"
Mina laughs while Nico shakes her head with an amused smile. "Your captain really is something else."
Robin—the original—leans in slightly. "And what about your crew? If they're not pirates, what are they?"
Mina taps her chin. "Well, most of us are involved in magic and technology research, the mean that took us here is also one of those researches"
Franky's eyes light up at the mention of technology. "Whoa, whoa, whoa—hold up! You're saying you guys built something that lets you jump between worlds?! That's SUPER!"
Usopp's jaw drops. "Wait, wait, wait. You're serious? You actually invented a way to travel to different dimensions? That's not just some crazy sci-fi nonsense?"
Mina smirks. "Well, it was crazy sci-fi nonsense... until we made it real."
Franky crosses his arms, looking genuinely impressed. "Alright, you have to show me how it works. I need to see this tech with my own eyes!"
Nico chuckles. "It's a bit more complicated than just flipping a switch, but we'd be happy to explain the basics. Still, you need to know a bit about magic, because this thing runs not just on technology, but magic as well. But let me ask you this, how do you define magic in this world?"
Robin—the original—smiles thoughtfully at the question. "Magic? Well, in this world, we don't really call it that. Instead, we have Devil Fruits—strange, powerful fruits that grant incredible abilities, but at the cost of the eater losing their ability to swim."
Mina tilts her head. "Huh. So instead of mana or incantations, you gain power by consuming a fruit?"
Nico nods. "Interesting... It sounds like a system of innate abilities rather than learned magic. Do these fruits follow any sort of classification?"
Robin nods. "There are three main types—Paramecia, which grant a variety of powers; Zoan, which let the user transform into an animal; and Logia, which allow control over an element, effectively making the user intangible."
Mina crosses her arms, considering the information. "That's fascinating. So Devil Fruits function as a form of genetic alteration, restructuring a person's body and abilities at a fundamental level."
Franky grins. "Yeah! And then there's Haki! It's another power some people can use—it's kinda like an invisible force that lets you fight Devil Fruit users or strengthen your attacks!"
Nico taps her chin. "So it's a parallel power system... a way to counterbalance the overwhelming abilities granted by Devil Fruits."
Zoro, who had been quietly observing, finally speaks up. "Magic or not, it doesn't matter. Strength is strength. You don't need some fancy fruit or tech to be strong—you just need training and skill."
Mina smirks. "I can respect that. Where I'm from, there are plenty of warriors who rely purely on their own strength. But having a little magic or tech to back you up never hurts."
Luffy suddenly leans forward, eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Hey, hey! Can you guys use magic right now? Show us something cool!"
Mina grins at Nico, who sighs with amusement before raising a hand. With a flick of her fingers, a soft, glowing sigil appears in the air, pulsing with faint energy. A moment later, a small gust of wind spirals through the room, ruffling everyone's hair.
Chopper's eyes widened. "Whoa! That's so cool!"
Usopp, however, jumps back. "W-Wait, wait! Are you guys secretly Devil Fruit users?! That looked just like a Logia ability!"
Mina shakes her head as she changes to something else, a new sigil appears as the waves in the sea start moving unnaturally.
The crew watches in awe as the waves ripple and twist under Mina's control, forming intricate patterns before settling back to normal.
Sanji whistles. "Well, that's definitely not a Devil Fruit power."
Franky adjusts his sunglasses. "That's some serious wave manipulation. You're telling me that's all done without any sort of fuel? No machines, no external energy source?"
Mina grins. "Nope, just pure magic. Though magic does have its own limits. I'm not about to summon a whole tsunami or anything... well, not unless I really push myself."
Luffy's eyes sparkle. "Aww, come on! You should totally try it! A giant wave would be awesome!"
Nico chuckles, shaking her head. "We could, but let's not accidentally sink your ship, Captain."
Usopp crosses his arms, still skeptical. "Okay, okay, but if it's not a Devil Fruit... then how does it work? Is it like Haki? Do you have to train for years to get it?"
Mina taps her chin in thought. "Well, kind of. Magic is a skill that can be trained, but unlike Haki, which comes from willpower and spirit, magic relies on a type of energy called mana."
Chopper's ears perk up. "What is that?"
Nico smiles, stepping in to explain. "Mana is a form of natural energy that exists within people, creatures, and even the environment. Think of it like an invisible fuel source that allows us to use magic."
Chopper tilts his head. "So it's kinda like how Devil Fruit powers use stamina?"
Mina nods. "Exactly! Just like how using too much Haki or fighting for too long can wear you out, magic burns through mana. If you overuse it, you can become exhausted—or worse, pass out completely. But..." she smirks, nudging Nico to go on.
She sighs "Fine, there is no harm in telling them anyway. But Mina and I are among those who can use magic endlessly without burning our mana"
Robin's eyes widened "So. you 2 have infinite mana or something? Because if I heard correctly, once mana in your body runs out, you're exhausted like how stamina works"
"That's the difference, while others use mana from their own body, we use mana from nature where mana can be endlessly recycled and used infinitely. As long as there is mana in the environment, we can cast spells till the end of time. Here, let me explain" Nico stands up
"You see, in our world, mana goes into our body from nature, but the flows of mana is unstable and chaotic, so when coming into my body, it has to go through a filter to be tamed and refined for us to use, or else the spells we made will be really unreliable and fluctuate" she explains
Mina chimes in as well "That's why we ran out of mana sometimes, when the amount we used couldn't be compensated by the amount we absorbed from nature. Well, up until recently, something revolutionary was made in our world by the joint effort of our group–Stabilizer"
Nico continues "It's a magic symbol that works similar to our body's mana filter, but at a much, much higher efficiency and rate. This helps us tame the wild mana from nature to cast spells instead of using mana from our body. The spell once caused its effect will go back to the nature as mana, ready to be use again"
Franky's eyes light up. "Whoa, that's SUPER! You're telling me you made an external filter that lets you use magic straight from the environment without running out?"
Mina grins. "Exactly! With the Stabilizer, we never burn through our own mana reserves, and since mana in nature constantly regenerates, we can keep casting without worry."
Chopper gasps. "That's amazing! So it's like having an infinite energy source!"
Nico nods. "Pretty much. But it's not without its limits. If we end up in a place with little to no ambient mana, we'd have to rely on our own reserves like everyone else. And if the Stabilizer gets damaged, well..." she shrugs.
Robin—the original—rests her chin on her hand, deep in thought. "A system that refines chaotic natural energy and recycles it seamlessly... It's almost like the Grand Line's weather. Constantly shifting, yet maintaining a form of balance."
Sanji smirks, exhaling a puff of smoke. "Sounds like a dream come true for anyone who uses magic. No more running out of juice in a fight."
Zoro crosses his arms. "So basically, it's like having a sword that never dulls. But doesn't that make things too easy? If there's no limit, there's no challenge."
Mina chuckles. "Oh, trust me, Zoro. The challenge isn't in running out of mana. The challenge is in how well you can use it. Just because we have an infinite supply doesn't mean we can just throw around spells without strategy."
Usopp scratches his head. "Wait, hold on. If this thing is so amazing, why doesn't everyone in your world use it?"
Nico shrugs "1. Because it was just made recently, 2. It's too dangerous in the wrong hands, so we are keeping it in a tight circle so that it can never be misused"
Luffy listens for a moment, then tilts his head. "So, if you guys have unlimited magic... Does that mean you can make unlimited meat?"
Nico shakes her head "On theory, we can do that, but the taste of the meat will be very weird and hard to eat because it was made out of mana, and once they go down your body, it will disappear like air, you won't feel full eating food made with mana, we've tried and concluded that normal meat is still better taste-wise and nutrition-wise."
Luffy's excitement visibly deflates as he processes Nico's words. "Wait... so even if you make meat with magic, it won't taste right? And I won't even get full?" His face twists into an expression of pure devastation.
Mina chuckles at his reaction. "Yeah, unfortunately, magic can't replace the real thing. No matter how well we shape it, food created entirely from mana has no real substance. It just vanishes after a while."
Sanji smirks, flicking the ash from his cigarette. "Hah. Figures. A proper meal takes skill, fresh ingredients, and love—not just some shortcut." He eyes Nico and Mina. "Though I wouldn't mind seeing what kind of magic cooking techniques you two have."
Nico shrugs. "We can enhance flavors, speed up cooking, and preserve food for longer, but making something from nothing? That's where magic falls short."
Luffy slumps forward, dramatically defeated. "So close... yet so far..."
Chopper pats his arm sympathetically. "It's okay, Luffy! At least we still have Sanji's cooking!"
Luffy immediately perks up. "Oh yeah! Sanji, make me some meat to cheer me up!"
Sanji sighs. "You were gonna ask for meat anyway, dumbass."
Nami comes to Mina while Luffy is still pleading Sanji for more meat despite they have just had breakfast "So Mina, can you tell me more about your world, it's getting me excited and, I'm curious about what would I do if I'm not a pirate"
Mina smiles brightly "I would love to do so, it's not everyday I get to share my own story to my counterpart, so let's start with what I do" Mina takes a deep breath before turning to the chaotic dining room "CAN I HAVE A MOMENT OF PEACE!?" She yells with the authority of Nami, causing the whole ruckus to stop immediately.
The entire room freezes. Even Luffy, who was mid-sentence begging Sanji for more meat, shuts his mouth with a comical gulp. The rest of the crew, now silent, turns to look at Mina with wide eyes.
Real Nami whistles, clearly impressed. "Wow, you really do sound like me."
Mina clears her throat, flashing a satisfied grin. "Had to make sure I had everyone's attention."
Luffy, still stunned, leans over to his Nami and whispers, "She's scary like you too..."
Ignoring him, Mina turns back to her counterpart. "Anyway, in my world, I am first a finance manager, my family entrusted their fortune to me to manage, so it's my job to make sure the money is well-spent into reasonable and clear purposes"
Nami's eyes sparkle with interest. "Wait, you handle finances? Like... big ones? Not just managing a ship's budget?"
Mina nods proudly. "Yep. My family's business is massive, spanning across multiple industries—trade, investments, research funding, you name it. Every credit, every resource that flows in and out, I oversee it"
Real Nami leans forward, resting her chin on her palm. "That actually sounds kind of awesome... but also like a nightmare. Doesn't that stress you out?"
Mina shrugs "Not much, I love money, both making and spending, I like spending more but I'll always make sure I make more than what I spent, then I will have more money to spend"
Real Nami's eyes widen before she grins. "Okay, I think I just found my new best friend."
Mina chuckles. "Figured you'd appreciate that. Money's power, after all. The more you have, the more freedom you get."
Nami nods enthusiastically. "Exactly! You get it! If you're smart about it, you can live comfortably without ever worrying about debts or danger."
Mina smirks. "And if you play it right, you can even make others work for you while you sit back and enjoy the profits."
Real Nami claps her hands together. "I knew I'd like you. So tell me, what's your best money-making scheme?"
Mina winks. "Well, my current way of making money is managing finances for corporations, I am running a company back home called Abyga Ltd that helps other companies manage their wealth. With knowing their finances, I can provide a lot of benefits for my family in negotiation, of course, when doing business, my connection to my family is cut off so that the clients can be at ease to hand their finance to me"
Real Nami leans in, clearly intrigued. "So, you're telling me you basically have access to all these big companies' finances? That sounds like a goldmine of opportunity."
Mina chuckles. "It is, but I have to keep things professional. Trust is everything in finance. If my clients suspect I'm using their money for my own benefit, they'll pull out, and my business crumbles. But..." she smirks, "that doesn't mean I can't use my knowledge to make smart investments on my own."
Nami grins. "Now that's the kind of thinking I like. So, what kind of investments are we talking about?"
Mina shrugs. "Real estate, trade networks, high-yield stocks, rare materials... anything with potential for long-term profit. And of course, I always make sure my clients profit too—happy clients mean repeat business."
Real Nami whistles, impressed. "Damn, you're like the ultimate financial mastermind. I just scam pirates and hoard treasure."
"That's one way to make money, but it's not really sustainable and consistent. Let me tell you, once I know how this world's economy work, I'll help you make more money without having to hoard treasures or scamming"
Nami raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "More money without hoarding or scamming? Now you've got my attention."
Mina grins. "Of course! Treasure is great, but it's a one-time gain. Smart investments? They keep making you money while you sleep. Once I figure out how this world's economy functions—trade routes, currencies, major industries—I can help you set up a financial network that brings in steady profits without you having to run around chasing bounties or storming pirate hideouts."
Real Nami leans back, arms crossed, thinking it over. "Huh... you're saying I could make money without all the running, scheming, and risking my life?"
Mina smirks. "Exactly. Work smarter, not harder."
Nami taps her chin, her eyes shining with interest. "Okay, I'll admit, that does sound tempting. But you've got a lot to learn about how money works in this world. Think you're up for the challenge?"
Mina laughs confidently. "Oh, absolutely. Give me a few days, and I'll have a whole business strategy ready to make us rich."
Real Nami grins, throwing an arm around her counterpart. "Alright, Mina, you just earned yourself a partner. Let's get filthy rich together!"
Robin sighs playfully. "I should've known this would happen."
Nico comes to her counterpart "This is for the benefits of your crew, bear with them, Mina with her mindset has made a lot of money for us. Besides, would it be better to have more books to read, more weapons to use, more foods to eat, more gears to upgrade, more medicine to deal with illness,...without having to worry about the emptiness of your bellies?"
Robin chuckles, giving Nico an amused glance. "You make a compelling argument. More resources would certainly make life easier."
Real Nami nods eagerly. "Exactly! Imagine having all the money we need to upgrade the ship, stockpile supplies, and still have plenty left for luxuries. No more struggling to stretch every last Berry."
Nico smirks. "See? That's the beauty of smart financial planning. Instead of constantly chasing wealth, you let wealth come to you."
Sanji, who had been listening in, lights a cigarette and grins. "If it means better ingredients and an endless supply of quality food for the crew, I'm all for it."
Franky crosses his arms, nodding. "And if it means I can upgrade the Sunny without worrying about costs, then super!"
Zoro, however, remains unimpressed, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. "Tch. As long as it doesn't turn into a headache, do whatever you want."
Mina winks. "Don't worry, swordsman. You'll like the results when you see them."
Real Nami claps her hands. "Alright then! Mina, I'll help you understand this world's economy, and in return, you help us build a fortune."
Mina grins, shaking Nami's hand. "Deal. Let's get rich, partner."
Robin watches the scene unfold and sighs with a smile. "Well, it looks like our worlds aren't so different after all."
When the money part is done, Mina starts speaking again "Aside from being the finance master of the family, I am also a researcher, I do various thing in the lab of ours, from magic to technology, I'm usually the one who handles the indexes, optimizations, and most importantly, commercialization."
Nico pats Mina's head "This girl's head is extremely sensitive with numbers, in this field she is way ahead of me, I need a lot of information to process to bring out the most efficient plan, but Mina can do it all in her head in a way that is more energy efficient than I could."
Mina's smile never fades from her face "And the latest invention of this crazy mind is INA, Interdimensional Navigating Algorithm, the very thing that brought us here today with you all"
Nico pats her head again "I don't know how she could envision the sea of worlds and dimensions in her head with pure math, but when I read the document she wrote about this, I was shocked, no wonder this project was assigned to you of all people" Nico pecks Mina's cheek, making her blush as she smiles brightly.
Franky's eyes widened in admiration. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! You mean to tell me you designed a system that can navigate through dimensions with just math? That's some next-level SUPER genius stuff!"
Usopp, mouth agape, stammers, "H-Hold on! You're saying you can actually see all the different worlds in your head like a giant map? That's insane!"
Mina chuckles, crossing her arms confidently. "It's not that I 'see' them like a physical map, but I can calculate their relationships based on patterns, energy fluctuations, and probability. The multiverse has rules, just like economics—predictable once you know what to look for."
Robin, intrigued, leans forward. "And what exactly are these patterns? How do you map something as vast and unpredictable as an infinite multiverse?"
Nico gestures toward Mina. "She developed a formula that translates interdimensional energy signatures into coordinates, allowing us to 'chart' different worlds based on their resonance. It's similar to how navigators use the stars to chart a course on the sea, but instead of constellations, we use dimensional harmonics."
Real Nami's jaw drops. "So you're telling me that what I do with Log Poses and sea currents, you do with literal alternate realities?"
Mina smirks. "Exactly. Except instead of guiding a ship through a single ocean, I guide our team through endless possibilities. But navigating worlds like points on a coordinate system, it's just connecting dots, what we truly care about is the nature of the dots themselves"
Nico continues Mina's speech "Each world has their own information about the rules, the settings, the environments, the people, that's something that sets worlds apart from each other. We are developing the method to navigate further into worlds' information, like what you saw here in us, we arrived here by a new function of INA that helps us find worlds with people who share resemblance, or energy signature with us."
Mina chimes in "But that's the simplest part, the hardest part we are trying to achieve is searching worlds base on historical events, which is really complicated because scanning the time flow takes so much time because it is too large in data and too specific in detail, a person not mention and it might lead us to another destination "
Franky whistles. "Man, that's some next-level searching. So what, you're trying to create a historical Log Pose or something?"
Mina chuckles. "You could put it that way. The tricky part is compressing all that data into something usable. Right now, we can only scan broad historical movements—major wars, big discoveries, or global changes. But pinpointing smaller events, like a specific conversation or a hidden event, is still beyond our reach."
Robin places a hand on her chin, intrigued. "That's still a remarkable feat. If you could refine that ability, you could uncover lost knowledge from across countless worlds."
Nico nods. "That's the goal. Our world has mysteries of its own, but knowing that infinite others exist out there means there's so much more to learn."
Luffy, meanwhile, is still stuck on an earlier point. "So wait... If you could find worlds based on history, does that mean you could find the One Piece?!"
Mina smirks. "If it still exists now, Nico can find it in a flash, there is no need for something like INA. But would you want to spoil the adventure by skipping to the ending?"
Luffy blinks, then grins wide. "No way! The fun is in the journey!"
Robin chuckles. "Spoken like a true pirate."
Sanji takes a sip from his tea as he asks Mina "So aside from adventure and exploration, why did you make all these dimensional travelling things?"
Mina giggles "Travelling and exploration is in fact the side benefit, the main goal of this whole system is simply because of 1 answer and 3 people"
Usopp tilts his head "What do you mean?"
Nico leans back "Here is the thing, the man who invented the interdimensional portal and laid the first foundation of INA has nothing but a simple desire, it's to return to his old world, for 1 answer and 3 people" She explains
Mina continues "You see, that man is not originally from my world, he is a wanderer who fell into the Void and ended up in our world. He made the portal to complete his goal, but since he died in his old world, he can't trace it with his energy signature, so he aimed to find it by a historical event, something that can't fade on the timeline of each world, only to answer 1 question and meet 3 people, simple as that"
Robin looks at them curiously "What kind of question and people he wants to answer and see so bad he made all this?"
Nico shrugs "We don't know what he wants to answer or who he wants to see yet, but that drove him till this point and we have been assisting him in completing this project, so that his mind can be at ease and we can have countless worlds to explore"
Robin taps her chin. "And you said he's searching for an answer... and three people. If he remembers them, why not just search for them directly?"
Mina answers "I wish it was that simple, but in his journey, wandering for thousands of years inside the Void, most of the information about those people in his mind has vanished, only 3 words was left regarding them according to the man, and that is their role in his life, a Friend, a Mother, a Love, that's all he remembers"
Nico continues "That's why he must search through historical event, something that can't fade, something that has been printed into the timeline of that world, that's the goal Mina, I, him have been aiming to, and starting with searching individuals is the first step"
The Straw Hats listen intently, the weight of Mina and Nico's words settling over them. Even Luffy, who usually loses interest in complex explanations, stays unusually quiet.
Sanji exhales a slow stream of smoke. "A friend, a mother, and a love... That's all he remembers after wandering the Void for thousands of years?"
Mina nods. "The Void is unlike anything we understand. It exists between worlds, outside time itself. Even memories—our most personal and unshakable truths—can be eroded there. He held onto those three words, but everything else... faces, names, even the emotions tied to them... they were lost."
Robin folds her arms. "That's tragic. It must be painful, chasing ghosts without even knowing their faces."
Nico sighs. "It is. But for him, it's not just about memory. It's about finding closure, finding his origins, finding the life he lost."
Zoro, who had been quietly observing, finally speaks. "Tch. That's some insane determination. Most people would've given up after losing everything."
Mina smiles softly. "That's why we're helping him. His search has given us so much—technology, knowledge, and the ability to explore the multiverse. But at its core, this entire system was built for something deeply personal."
Luffy suddenly grins. "So that means when you find the right world, he gets to go home?"
Mina and Nico exchange glances before Nico replies, "That's the hope. But... there's no guarantee those he wants to meet or the answer he desires are there anymore, he might come home to see everything is gone and there is nothing left for him"
Franky frowns. "If it didn't play out well, it would indeed be a sad ending, huh? Spending eternity looking only to find there is nothing left"
Mina's expression turns somber. "Yes. But he refuses to stop. Even if it's painful, he refuses to stop, he will find it, to ease the worry in his mind"
There's a long silence before Brook speaks, his voice uncharacteristically soft. "I understand that feeling. Searching for those you've lost... even when you're not sure they still exist."
The weight of his words lingers, and the crew falls into thoughtful silence. Then, as if sensing the mood has gotten too heavy, Luffy suddenly grins. "Well, if you ever need help, just call us! We're great at finding things! Right, guys?"
Mina giggles "I'll take that into consideration, Luffy, that's so nice of you. Now, that's enough about me, aren't you curious about this woman here? She has a lot to tell" She pats Nico's back, making her shudder.
Nico shoots Mina a playful glare. "You always do this—throwing me into the spotlight."
Mina winks. "Well, you are the brains of our operation. And besides, I already had my moment."
Robin leans in slightly, intrigued. "So, Nico, what's your story?"
Nico exhales and crosses her arms. "Where do I even begin...?" She pauses for a moment, then smirks. "Well, let's start from here, before I become a scientist and magic researcher, I was a information dealer, I have a network of eyes and ears spanning across my world to gather information to sell"
Robin turns to Nico with a surprised gaze "You can summon your body parts too?" Robin summons a hand for Nico to see
Nico nods "I can and I do it very well...." Suddenly, everyone in the room feels a sudden uneasy feeling coursing through their bodies. Usopp shakes lightly "Why do I feel like someone was watching me?"
Nico smirks as she raises a single hand. "That's because you are being watched."
In an instant, shadowy, transparent eyes flicker into existence all around the room—on the walls, the ceiling, the chairs, even on the surface of the dining table. Each one moves independently, scanning the crew with an eerie precision.
Chopper yelps and jumps onto the table. "W-WHAT IS THIS?! WHY ARE THERE EYES EVERYWHERE?!"
Sanji's cigarette nearly falls from his lips. "That's... not normal."
Robin narrows her eyes, intrigued rather than alarmed. "You can manifest body parts like I can, but... this feels different. It's more than just summoning."
Nico nods, waving a hand as the eyes slowly fade away. "My ability isn't just about creating extra limbs. It's about perception—gathering information in ways others can't. These eyes let me see, the ears let me hear"
Franky whistles. "Damn. That's some next-level surveillance."
Nico smirks. "It's how I built my network. I don't just gather information—I collect, decode, and sell it to the right people. A hidden warlord planning a coup? A corrupt official laundering money? A missing noble's secret hideout? Even a kid going missing. If it exists, I can find it."
Usopp pales. "You could just... spy on anyone?"
Nico leans forward, resting her chin on her hand. "Anyone. Anywhere. Anytime"
Luffy, meanwhile, is still stuck on the spying part. "So, Nico, you can see anywhere, right? Does that mean you can see where the One Piece is?!"
Nico nods "Apparently, I can, once I spread my network all over this world, I can easily find this One Piece you're looking for, I can even teleport to where my summoned body parts are, so in a sense..."
"...this woman is everywhere, all at once" Mina completes her sentence.
The room falls into stunned silence.
Zoro leans forward, arms crossed. "You're saying you could just skip the whole journey and go straight to the One Piece?"
Nico shrugs. "Technically, yes. If I wanted to, I could place my network all over the world, gather every bit of hidden knowledge, and then teleport straight to the treasure."
Luffy frowns. "That sounds kinda... boring."
Mina nods "That's what I always say about Nico's life, she just knows too much, so much so that nothing could surprise her anymore..."
Nico adds "...that's the reason why I joined in researches the innovations and adventures into the unknown, that's they only that could bring spices to my life, something thrilling and exciting to explore and uncover"
She then turns to the whole crew "Still, I want to ask you something, if you have a chance to get an information network like that of mine, would you take it?"
Robin raises a brow before Nico's question "Why are you asking that?"
"Because I can build one for you, it's not that hard, you just need to pinpoint for me the locations you want to place eyes on, I can put my eyes and ears there for you to gather information quicker and more accurately than any other type of media you've ever known, you'll always be informed about your allies and know exactly what you enemies are going to do" Nico answers bluntly
The room falls silent as the weight of Nico's offer sinks in.
Nami crosses her arms, deep in thought. "That's... tempting. Knowing what our enemies are up to before they make a move could give us a huge advantage."
Sanji, however, frowns. "But wouldn't that mean spying on our friends, too? I don't like the idea of invading people's privacy."
Zoro grunts. "Feels like cheating. We've made it this far without something like that."
Robin, ever the analyst, taps her chin. "But it would also mean fewer surprises. We wouldn't have to walk into traps, and we'd know where to go without wasting time."
Luffy, surprisingly, is the first to shake his head. "Nope. I don't want it."
Mina and Nico look at him curiously. "Why not?" Mina asks.
Luffy grins, leaning back with his arms behind his head. "Because it's boring! Adventure's all about the unknown! If we knew everything, where's the fun in that?"
Usopp lets out a sigh of relief. "Finally, something I can agree with! I don't need more ways to scare myself!"
Chopper nods quickly. "Yeah! And if we always knew what was coming, we might not grow as much. Facing challenges is what makes us stronger."
Nico smiles, looking genuinely pleased. "I was curious to see how you'd answer. I respect that."
Mina smirks. "See? That's why I like these guys. They're not just strong, they think about what they really want."
Nami sighs. "Well, it would have been nice to gather financial intel..."
Zoro snorts. "Of course that's what you care about."
Robin chuckles. "Still, it was an interesting proposal."
Nico nods. "I had a feeling you'd say no, but I wanted to hear it from you. Alright, I love how you value the unknown, so I'll leave it as it is"
Nico then walks outside of the dining room, Robin calls after her "Hey, where are you going?"
Nico turns back, smiling "I'm expanding my information network"
Robin raises a brow "But you said you won't make one"
Nico shrugs "I said I won't make one for you, but I still need one myself, as much as I like staying and exploring with you all, Mina and I only have a few days before we have to return home, so I need as much data as possible to enhance the searching ability of INA"
Nico explains as she comes to the deck of the ship and closes her eyes to focus to spread her network far and wide to gather information.
The crew exchanges glances before following Nico onto the deck, curiosity getting the better of them.
Nico stands still, her eyes closed, as a faint, intricate sigil glows beneath her feet. A soft breeze sweeps across the Sunny as a strange presence fills the air.
Robin watches intently. "She's gathering information right now, isn't she?"
Mina nods. "Yep. Right now, she's placing her 'eyes' in key locations across the world. The more she collects, the more accurate her searches will be."
Franky adjusts his sunglasses. "How far can she actually reach?"
Mina smirks. "That's the fun part. There's no real limit. As long as there's mana in the air, her reach is infinite."
Zoro crosses his arms, unimpressed. "Tch. Sounds like a lot of work."
"Not for her." Mina shrugs. "For Nico, it's like breathing. Nico can process information in an insane rate, she is like a living supercomputer, it's not random she is called the All Seeing Eye of my family, Robin just knows everything"
When Nico opens her eyes again, her face darkened, like she just saw something horrific, she turns back to Mina "Mina, I have to go now, take care of yourself, and here is the access to the network"
She places a finger on Mina's forehead to grant her the access before bracing herself for the teleportation, Robin calls out to her "Where are you going, Nico?"
She turns to her counterpart with a grim face "Mary Geoise" then she disappears from the ship in urgent
The crew stiffens at the name.
"Mary Geoise?!" Nami gasps. "What the hell is she thinking going there alone?!"
Robin clenches her fists, her expression darkening. "That place is the heart of the World Government... the home of the Celestial Dragons."
Luffy's face hardens. "We have to go after her."
Mina, still stunned from receiving access to Nico's network, snaps out of it. "Wait—hold on! I don't know what she saw, but if she left in such a hurry... It must be something serious. Let me call her"
Mina uses her access to Nico's information network to call Nico, and she picks up "Mina, what is it?"
Mina presses a hand to her forehead, eyes narrowing. "That's my line, Nico! What the hell did you see that made you run off like that?"
There's silence for a moment. Then, Nico's voice comes through, lower and colder than before. "Something... unspeakable. Something that can't be ignored."
Robin's heart pounds. "Is it the slaves?" she asks grimly.
Nico exhales. "Worse."
Mina clenches her jaw. "Nico, don't do anything reckless! Even with your abilities, that place is crawling with Admirals, CP0, and God knows what else—"
"I know," Nico cuts in. "I don't plan on being seen. I'm only here to confirm what I already suspect... and if necessary, to act."
Luffy steps forward, eyes shadowed by his hat. "Then we're coming."
"No." The single word is sharp, final.
"This isn't your fight," Nico continues. "Not yet. If I fail, then you'll know what to do. But for now, I need to move alone."
Mina tightens her grip. "Damn it, Nico, don't you dare—" But before she can finish, the connection cuts.
Mina curses under her breath. "Damn it! She blocked me!" The Sunny is silent, the weight of the situation pressing down on everyone.
Luffy's fists tighten. "We're going." Mina looks at him in shock. "But she—"
"I don't care," Luffy says, voice firm. "She's our friend." He turns to his crew. "We're setting sail for Mary Geoise." A fire burns in the Straw Hats' eyes. They're not letting Nico face this alone.
Luffy turns to Franky. "How long until we reach Mary Geoise?" Franky grits his teeth. "We are on our way to Wano, which is really far from Mary Geoise, which is place at the center of the world atop the Red Line, going there would take weeks, if not a month or 2"
Mina bites her lip, frustration evident on her face. "Damn it... we don't have that kind of time."
Luffy crosses his arms. "Then we'll go faster."
Franky sighs. "Even with the Sunny at full speed, we can't just cut the distance in half. The currents, the wind—"
Mina's eyes suddenly light up. "Wait. Who said we have to sail there?"
The crew looks at her in confusion.
Mina smirks "Who said only Nico knows how to teleport, I'll take you all there myself, I'm a navigator too, you know" She turns to Nami "Hand me the map and tell me where this Mary Geoise is, I'll take you all there in a flash, I can't view the location, there is no panorama eye"
Nami blinks in surprise before quickly unfolding the map, spreading it out on the nearest table. "Mary Geoise is here," she says, pointing to the massive landmass atop the Red Line. "It's right at the center of the world, where the Grand Line splits in two."
Mina nods, her eyes scanning the map with sharp precision. "Alright, I just need to lock onto the coordinates and calculate the safest possible landing point. I don't want to drop us right into the middle of their base."
Franky whistles. "You're seriously saying you can teleport an entire ship? That's some insane magic."
Mina grins. "I've never done it with something this big before, but there's a first time for everything."
Sanji lights a cigarette, exhaling slowly. "Just don't drop us in a marine prison or something."
Mina closes her eyes, reaching out with her magic. Energy crackles around her fingertips, and faint glowing sigils begin appearing on the deck of the Sunny. The ship itself hums with power, the wood beneath their feet vibrating slightly.
"Everyone, hold on to something!" Mina warns. "This might feel a little weird!"
The sigils grow brighter, a wave of golden light engulfing the ship. The last thing the crew sees is the open ocean around them—
Then, in a blinding flash—The Thousand Sunny vanishes. When the ship lands with a loud splash on the ocean, Luffy shoots up "THAT...WAS...AWESOME!" he yells as the ship is now closer to the destination.
Nami checks her Log Pose "We are in Sabaody Archipelago, still a few hours of sails to get to Red Line"
Mina exhales, wiping a bit of sweat from her forehead. "Phew... that was a rush."
Franky is already inspecting the ship, patting Sunny's mast. "No damage, no structural instability... That's some crazy teleportation, sis."
Zoro crosses his arms. "So we still have to sail the rest of the way."
Mina nods. "Yeah, I couldn't risk dropping us directly on Mary Geoise. We need to approach it carefully."
Brook chuckles. "Yohoho! At least we cut down weeks of travel into a single moment! That's truly a power worthy of the gods!"
Sanji exhales a breath of smoke, gazing toward the distant Red Line. "Nico better not do anything reckless before we get there..."
Mina's expression hardens. "I already told her to wait, but you all saw how urgent she was. I don't think she's stopping for anything."
Robin folds her arms, her face unreadable. "She saw something. Something bad enough to risk everything."
Luffy's grin fades, replaced by a serious expression. "Then let's go."
With that, the Sunny speeds ahead, slicing through the waters toward the towering Red Line—and toward whatever danger awaited them in Mary Geoise.
Meanwhile
Nico lands in Mary Geoise at one of her many eyes she placed here prior. Finding a dark corner, she cloaks herself in a concealment spell and a layer of Null Zone before heading out to confirm what she saw with her own eyes, and what she saw made her wish she wasn't that smart to memorize them all.
Nico moves like a shadow through the opulent streets of Mary Geoise, her spell masking her presence from the guards and the Celestial Dragons. But no amount of magic could shield her from the horrors she was witnessing.
The grand city, bathed in gold and luxury, stood as a stark contrast to the suffering in its darkest corners. Slaves in chains—many malnourished, some barely alive—were dragged through the streets like livestock. A young girl, no older than ten, collapsed from exhaustion, only for a guard to kick her aside like trash. A man, his body covered in fresh whip wounds, was forced to kneel as a Celestial Dragon placed his boot on his head, laughing as though it were a mere game.
Nico's fists trembled at her sides. She had expected cruelty—she had read the records, had heard the rumors—but seeing it first hand was something else entirely.
She wanted to intervene. To destroy every chain, to wipe the smug grins off the faces of these so-called "gods." But she knew she couldn't. Not yet. She was alone, and if she struck now, she'd be overwhelmed before she could achieve anything meaningful.
"I have to focus." Nico steels herself up before moving forward.
She moved deeper into the city, her sharp mind working fast. She memorized every guard's route, every hidden passage, every symbol of authority. If she had to return here, she would need every advantage. But with each new horror she witnessed, a deep, burning rage built inside her.
As Nico continued her silent infiltration, she suddenly halted, her sharp eyes catching sight of something unusual.
A group of slaves—not just any slaves, but ones wearing peculiar collars, glowing with eerie runes—were being led into a heavily guarded facility. Unlike the others, these individuals didn't appear completely broken. Their eyes, though filled with fear, still held something unusual... resistance.
Nico's mind raced. "These aren't just any slaves... These are test subjects."
Her fingers twitched at her sides. If the World Government was experimenting on slaves, it could mean only one thing—they were researching something dangerous.
Her heart pounded as she pushed deeper, her magic keeping her invisible to the guards. She had to know. "What are they planning?"
She moved quickly, ducking into the shadows, slipping past guards and security barriers with practiced ease. Then, at the heart of the facility, she found it.
A massive chamber lined with strange machines, tubes filled with a glowing substance, and within them—people.
Her breath hitched. "This isn't just slavery... this is something far worse."
Her mind screamed at her to leave, to gather more intel, to not act recklessly. But her heart was already moving. She clenched her fists. "This is too far, too much, too cruel" Nico takes a deep breathes before summoning an ear on her hand
Nico accesses her network, focusing on a place she knows she will find help from, Revolutionary Army's headquarters "Dragon" Nico's voice rings out in Monkey D Dragon's study "Robin? What is the meaning of this? Where are you?" he looks around the room, trying to locate the woman and her voice "I'm in Mary Geoise"
Dragon's eyes narrowed sharply. "Mary Geoise?!" His normally calm demeanor cracked for a split second before he steeled himself again. "Robin, what the hell are you doing there?"
"Doesn't matter" she answers "There is something I want to offer you"
Nico speaks with urgency "I can teleport your elite force into this place right now under 2 conditions, one, you help me free as much slave from here as possible. Two, I want to know your intention, Dragon, do you fight for the oppressed? Or just a tyrant rising to power in the name of justice?"
A long silence follows, punctuated only by the soft rustle of papers on Dragon's desk. Finally, his voice returns, softer now but laced with determination. "You know me, Robin. I have fought against tyranny for too long to ignore the suffering of the innocent," he says slowly. "My cause is not one of ambition, but of liberation. If what you say is true—and if you're willing to risk everything to expose this corruption—then you have my word: I will act."
Nico's tense features soften just a fraction. "Good," she murmurs. "I can't stress enough how important it is that we move quickly. The longer we delay, the more lives are lost."
Dragon leans forward, his tone resolute. "Do what you can, Robin. I will mobilize my elite unit immediately. We'll breach Mary Geoise, dismantle their chains, and show these people that hope is not yet lost."
"I see, gather your force and when you're done, tell me, I'll get you all in" Nico hangs up as she looks at the caged people "Don't worry, I'll get you out soon"
At his base, Dragon looks to Sabo who is in the room with him "Gather the commanders, Sabo, we can't miss this chance"
Sabo's eyes widen slightly at the urgency in Dragon's voice, but he doesn't hesitate. He nods, already turning toward the door. "Understood," he says firmly. "I'll have them ready in minutes."
As Sabo rushes off, Dragon clenches his fists, his mind racing. "Mary Geoise... if what Nico says is true, this is worse than we ever imagined. And if we move now, we may finally strike a true blow against the Celestial Dragons."
Within minutes, the Revolutionary Army's top commanders—Ivankov, Morley, Karasu, Lindbergh, and Bello Betty—gather in the meeting hall, their expressions ranging from serious to outright enraged as Dragon briefs them.
"Somehow, Robin has infiltrated Mary Geoise," Dragon begins without preamble. "She's confirmed large-scale enslavement—worse than our previous intel suggested. And she's offering us a chance to strike."
Ivankov leans forward, his usual playful expression gone. "She's offering a teleportation route inside?"
Dragon nods. "Yes. This will be our best shot at freeing those enslaved, but we need precision. We cannot afford to waste this opportunity."
Karasu's voice is low and sharp. "We must be prepared for the worst. Even if we free them, the World Government will retaliate."
Sabo steps forward, his eyes blazing with determination. "Then we make it count. We hit them hard, we rescue as many as we can, and we show the world that the Celestial Dragons are not untouchable."
Dragon scans the room, meeting the eyes of each commander. "This mission is voluntary," he says. "The risks are immeasurable. But for those who are willing... we leave immediately."
A beat of silence passes. Then, one by one, the commanders nod. "We're in," Sabo says without hesitation.
Ivankov grins, cracking his knuckles. "Ooh~ This is gonna be big, darling!"
Morley grins, twirling his spear. "Time to break some walls!"
Belo Betty adjusts her glasses. "The world needs to see what true power looks like."
Karasu simply nods. Dragon exhales, his expression set in stone. "Then let's move. Nico is waiting."
As the Revolutionary Army prepares for their boldest assault yet, back in Mary Geoise, Nico watches from the shadows, her heart pounding as she speaks. "I see you're all in this with me?" Everyone nods, Nico puts on a smile.
"Good, now gather around and look at the eye" An eye appears on the floor of the meeting hall, they look at it and next moment, they are looking at Nico standing there with her eyes sharpened "I kept my promise, now it's your turn"
The commanders take a second to adjust to the sudden shift in scenery—one moment they were at their base, and now they stood in the heart of enemy territory. The air was thick with tension, and the grandeur of Mary Geoise only made the atrocities committed here all the more sickening.
Sabo steps forward, scanning the surroundings. "You really got us in unnoticed... That's some ability you have, Nico."
She nods. "I told you I could do it. Now, we don't have much time. I've mapped out the major slave holding areas. We'll need to hit them fast before the guards realize we're here."
Betty surveys the opulent streets, her expression unreadable. "Where are the prisoners?"
Nico closes her eyes, focusing her network. A moment later, she speaks, her voice firm. "There are three main slave pens in this sector. The largest one is near Pangaea Castle. That's where they keep the 'high-value' slaves." Her fists clench at the word. "The others are scattered, but I can lead you to them."
Morley grins. "Then let's dig a few escape tunnels, shall we?"
Karasu's crows swirl around him. "We should eliminate the guards quietly before we alert the Celestial Dragons."
Ivankov smirks. "Ooh, I love a good dramatic entrance, but I suppose subtlety has its perks."
Sabo draws his pipe. "We move in teams. The goal is to get as many slaves out as possible, not to start an all-out war."
Dragon turns to Nico. "You started this mission. Do you have an extraction plan?"
Nico nods. "I've already marked an escape route. Once we get the slaves out, I can teleport them to a safe location outside Mary Geoise. Just lead them here to me and I'll whisk them back to the headquarters of your army"
Dragon's gaze lingers on her for a moment before he nods. "Then let's get to work."
Nico uses her power to create clones of herself, each was assigned to a team "They will lead you to the slaves, and they are the way we communicate, I'll stay here and support you all with my eyes and ears, now go, we don't have much time"
With her clones leading the way, the Revolutionary commanders move out, their years of experience making them nearly undetectable as they slip through the luxurious streets of Mary Geoise.
Nico stays behind, her mind racing as she taps deeper into her network. Every eye, every ear, every sense she had placed in this cursed city was now working overtime. The slightest shift in guard patrols, the whispers of frightened servants—she absorbed it all, calculating the best possible moves. All the cameras are deceived by Nico with false images so that they can move easier through the place
Through her clones, she relays information in real time.
— Karasu, two guards approaching from the left. Take them out silently.
— Morley, dig a tunnel under the eastern slave pen. The walls are reinforced, but I found a weak point near the back.
— Sabo, the locks on these cells are coded with a special mechanism. I'll guide you through disabling them.
Sabo whispers back, "You're really something else, Nico. We'd be flying blind without you."
Nico doesn't respond. She's too focused, guiding them moving in the shadow, taking all the slaves they can save before handing them to Robin's clones to whisk them back to the base of Revolutionary Army where Dragon is waiting.
The operation moves like clockwork—silent, precise, and unstoppable. Nico's clones guide the Revolutionary commanders while Robin's clones take the freed slaves and teleport them back to Dragon's base in waves.
Each freed prisoner is another life snatched from the jaws of cruelty. Each silent takedown is another step closer to dismantling the power of the Celestial Dragons.
Morley emerges from a tunnel beneath one of the largest slave pens. With one mighty push, the floor crumbles, creating a hidden escape route. "The underground is open, darlings! Everyone, hurry!"
Karasu's crows swarm through the air, muffling the sounds of battle as he swiftly eliminates approaching guards. "More reinforcements are coming," he warns through the network.
Meanwhile, Sabo works on the most secure cells, his fingers moving with practiced ease as Nico's voice guides him. "The mechanism has a two-stage fail-safe. Disable the rune first, then twist the dial counterclockwise."
With a satisfying click, the last lock opens. The prisoners inside, weak but filled with newfound hope, stare at their savior.
"Go," Sabo urges. "You're free now." Everything is working. Everything is—Nico suddenly stiffens. Something is wrong.
A cold, unnatural pressure spreads through the air. Her network trembles—not from an external attack, but from an overwhelming presence.
Then— her vision twists.
Through one of her many eyes, she sees a chamber deep within Mary Geoise. A massive throne. A kneeling Celestial Dragon, trembling in fear. And standing before them—
A figure draped in darkness. A presence that feels wrong. Like something that should not exist.
And then, without hesitation—They look straight at her. "Found you."
Pain erupts in Nico's mind. A force unlike anything she has ever encountered invades her network, unraveling it like fragile silk. Her clones falter, their bodies flickering. The false images deceiving the security cameras shatter.
Nico screams. The entire operation grinds to a halt. Sabo's eyes widened. "Robin?! What's happening?!"
Nico clutches her head, her breath ragged. "Imu—Imu is here—They saw me—They're breaking through—"
A deafening silence falls over the city. Then— alarms blare.
The Celestial Dragons have realized something is wrong. The guards mobilize. The sky darkens with an ominous energy. And Nico feels it—something is coming. Her vision swims as she forces herself to stay conscious.
She has no choice. "— ABORT THE MISSION! GET THE SLAVES OUT—NOW!!!"
Sabo clenches his fists. "You heard her! Everyone, move!"
The Revolutionary Army kicks into high gear. Morley collapses tunnels behind them to erase their tracks. Karasu's crows scatter, spreading confusion. Robin's clones work double time, teleporting the remaining prisoners.
But Robin stays behind, she looks straight into Imu's eyes as they approach an eye Nico placed at the throne room with no fear "Nice to meet you, Imu" Her voice rings out for Imu to hear
Imu pauses mid-step, their unreadable gaze locked onto the eye. The air thickens, charged with something ancient, something wrong.
"You are not afraid," Imu muses, their voice a whisper that echoes unnaturally.
Robin—no, Nico—smirks through her projection. Despite the pain wracking her mind, she holds her ground. "I've spent my life uncovering the world's greatest secrets. You? You're just another one to be exposed."
A long silence follows. Then, Imu raises a hand.
Instantly, Nico feels it—her network unravels at an accelerating rate, her senses collapsing like a web set ablaze. She gasps, staggering back, clutching her temples as waves of overwhelming force crash into her mind.
Imu's voice remains eerily calm. "You have seen too much."
A tendril of pure darkness lashes out through the eye—impossible, but happening. It slithers toward her, threatening to breach the connection and reach her physically. Nico doesn't flinch as she steps back to dodge the tendrils one by one, casting spells to wave them off, summoning more hands to help her deflecting all the tendrils.
When the assault was slightly lightened, she smirks "Smile for me, Imu. SAY CHEESE!" She yells.
The eye on Imu's side suddenly snaps like a flash of a camera, capturing all of Imu's face "I must say, you should look better if you smile, so next time, smile for me, alright?" Nico teases.
Imu stills. For a brief moment, there is nothing—no sound, no movement—just an unnatural stillness that makes the very air feel suffocating.
Then—
A ripple of pure malice erupts from the throne room. The walls tremble. The very space around Imu distorts, warping as if reality itself recoils from their presence.
"You dare..." Imu's voice is still quiet, still calm—but now laced with something venomous, something wrong.
Nico grins through the pain splitting her mind in two. "Oh, I more than dare." She taps the side of her head. "This little snapshot? It's already backed up. You can erase my eyes, my network, even me, but this? This is out of your reach."
For the first time, Imu's composure cracks. It's subtle—just a twitch of their fingers—but Nico catches it."Got you."
She doesn't wait for a counterattack. With a flick of her wrist, she severs the last connection. The eye—her final tether to Mary Geoise—bursts into nothingness, cutting off any chance for Imu to reach her directly. She then immediately teleports to the eye she placed at Dragon's base.
"Are the slaves alright?" Nico comes to Dragon, asking while rubbing her temple lightly.
Dragon's eyes narrow as he steps forward. "They're safe—for now. Our teams have extracted as many as they could before the alarms went off. But the situation inside Mary Geoise is more volatile than we anticipated."
Sabo, standing beside Dragon with his usual calm intensity, chimes in. "The Revolutionary teams are regrouping. We've managed to evacuate nearly all the rescued, but the Celestial Dragons are mobilizing faster than expected. We need to secure the area and hold our ground."
Nico exhales, still feeling the lingering effects of Imu's overwhelming presence. "Then don't. Don't hold your ground. Get everyone out—now."
Sabo frowns. "What? We can't just—"
"You can and you will." Nico's voice is sharp, urgent. She turns to Dragon. "You don't understand what I just faced in there. Imu is not just some ruler hiding in the shadows—they are something else. The moment they realized I was watching, they nearly tore through my network like it was nothing. If you try to fight them head-on, you won't just lose... you'll be erased."
Dragon's expression hardens, but he doesn't argue. He studies her carefully. "You saw them?"
Nico nods. "And I have proof." She taps her temple. "I got a snapshot of their face. The first real evidence that they exist. If the world sees this, it changes everything."
Sabo's eyes widened. "You're saying we have something even the World Government tried to keep buried?"
A smirk plays on Nico's lips. "I'm saying... we have the truth."
Dragon crosses his arms, his mind clearly running through the implications. Then, after a tense moment, he nods. "Alright. We retreat—for now. This information is too valuable to risk in an all-out battle."
Sabo sighs but relents. "Fine. But I hate running."
Nico chuckles. "Then think of it as a strategic repositioning."
Dragon turns to his commanders. "Prepare for a full withdrawal. Secure the rescued, destroy anything that could be tracked, and scatter. We go dark until it's time to make our move."
As the Revolutionary Army begins their retreat, Nico glances at the sky, feeling a shiver run down her spine. She has won this round...
On their way retreating, Dragon comes to Nico who is standing on the deck, looking at the sky "You didn't display any of this power when you were with us 2 years ago, I assumed you've awakened you Devil Fruit"
Robin turns back to face Dragon "I see, so you still think I'm Nico Robin" Dragon tilts his head "Aren't you?"
"I may share her face, her voice, her power and even her name, I'm not the Nico Robin you met and knew, I'm someone else entirely, I am an eye that sees it all"
Dragon's eyes narrow slightly, analyzing her words. "You're saying... you're not the Nico Robin I knew?"
Nico chuckles, resting her hands behind her back. "Correct. Let's just say... I come from a different place, a different world. And unlike your Robin, my power is something far beyond a mere Devil Fruit awakening."
Sabo, who had been listening from the side, steps forward with a skeptical frown. "You expect us to believe that?"
Nico shrugs. "Believe what you want. It doesn't change the fact that I just teleported your entire army mid-battle and nearly got erased by a godlike entity hiding at the top of the world."
Dragon exhales through his nose, his sharp gaze never leaving her. "You said your power lets you see everything. Then tell me... what did you see?"
Nico's smile widened "A lot in fact, I saw the Poneglyphs, I saw Imu and their secrets, the Will of the D, and of course I saw......One Piece"
Sabo and Dragon stiffen at her words. "The One Piece?" Sabo repeats, his voice laced with disbelief.
Dragon remains composed, but his sharp eyes darken. "You've seen it?"
Nico nods, her smirk unwavering. "Every secret that's been buried, every mystery hidden away—I saw it. And I can tell you... the truth of this world is...very interesting, and your son is looking for it. You might want to support him in that quest..." She turns her back to them.
"...because who knows? Maybe it's the very thing you've been looking for to complete your revolution~That 'One Piece'" Dragon's expression remains unreadable, but Sabo takes a sharp step forward. Dragon's eyes narrow, his expression unreadable. "You're implying that the One Piece isn't just treasure... but something that could change everything?"
Nico tilts her head slightly, glancing over her shoulder. "I imply nothing, understand how you wish, because however you understand it, it will lead down only one path–the journey to Laugh Tale, where all secrets unravel, where all eyes will turn to, and where the fate of this world is decided. By that time, Dragon, you'll know what to do, you have that 'D' in you, remember?"
Dragon remains silent, his gaze locked onto Nico with the intensity of a man who has spent decades chasing the truth. The weight of her words settles over the deck like a storm waiting to break.
Sabo, however, is less patient. "If you know so much, why not just tell us? If the One Piece is really the key to everything—"
Nico chuckles, shaking her head. "Because knowing isn't enough. You have to see it for yourself. Experience it. That's what makes the journey matter." She turns fully to face them, her expression unreadable. "The world isn't ready for the truth to be handed to them. It has to be earned."
Dragon finally speaks. "And Luffy? You think he'll earn it?"
Nico's smirk softens just a fraction. "Oh, he will—because unlike the rest of us, he doesn't seek the truth for power or revolution. He just wants it. Because it's fun. And that's exactly why he'll reach it first."
Dragon exhales, almost amused, but there's something thoughtful in his gaze.
Sabo crosses his arms, still skeptical. "And what about you? What's your next move?"
Nico turns toward the horizon. "I'll have to apologize to Robin first, I've put a huge red target mark on her back. I didn't know Imu could track me down and it seems they still think that I am Robin.
She sighs "And the moment I leave this world to return to mine, things will be a little...harsh for her, I'll leave something behind for her with some little catches."
She turns back to Dragon and hands him an envelope "In here is the image I took of Imu, might be useful, a thanking gift for assisting me today. Thank you, Dragon"
Dragon takes the envelope without a word, his fingers tightening around it as if holding something far heavier than mere paper. His gaze flickers to Nico, searching her expression for any trace of deception. But there is none—only certainty.
Sabo eyes the envelope warily. "This... this could change everything."
Nico grins. "That's the idea."
Dragon finally nods, slipping the envelope into his coat. "If what you say is true, then the world's about to enter its most dangerous era yet."
Nico smirks. "Oh, it is. The wheels are already turning. And soon, every major force—the Marines, the Yonko, the Revolutionaries—will have to pick a side." She crosses her arms. "Imu knows I exist. And as long as they think I'm Nico Robin, the real one will be in danger. So I need to make sure she's ready."
With those last words, Nico disappears from the ship of Dragon back to Thousand Sunny. When she is there, she sees the Straw Hat are fighting their way up to Mary Geoise on the cloud Nami and Mina made for them to step on as an elevator. Nico sighs as she turns her wrist, teleporting all of them back to Thousand Sunny and whisks them all out of the Holy Land, back to their track to Wano.
The Straw Hats barely have a moment to react before they find themselves back on the Thousand Sunny, the sudden shift in surroundings disorienting them.
Luffy blinks. "Huh? What just—" Nami stumbles slightly before catching herself. "Wha—?! We were just—" She glares at Nico. "You teleported us?!"
"Yes, I did, you came for me, right, and now I'm back, there is no need to climb up there anymore. Besides, I just provoked a certain someone up there, so going heading there isn't a good idea, at all" Nico speaks
Zoro crosses his arms, his brow furrowing. "You provoked someone? Who?"
Nico smirks, but there's a sharpness in her gaze. "Let's just say... I had a little chat with the one pulling the strings behind the World Government."
The crew stiffens. Robin, who has been silent up until now, steps forward. "You don't mean—"
Nico nods. "Imu. The true ruler of this world."
A heavy silence falls over the ship.
Sanji whistles low. "Damn. And here I thought we were already making enough enemies."
Franky runs a hand through his hair. "So, what, we're all on their radar now?"
Nico tilts her head. "No. I am. They still think I'm you, Robin." She glances at her counterpart, her expression unreadable. "Which means I've painted a target on your back."
Robin doesn't flinch. Instead, she meets Nico's gaze with unwavering resolve. "That's nothing new."
Nico exhales, something between amusement and admiration in her smile. "That's what I thought you'd say."
Luffy cracks his knuckles, his usual carefree expression laced with something more determined. "Doesn't matter. If they come for us, we'll just beat 'em up."
Mina shakes her head. "Luffy, this isn't just some enemy. This is the one controlling the entire world."
Luffy grins. "So?"
The crew stares at him for a moment before collectively sighing.
Brook chuckles. "Well, that is very Captain of you, Luffy."
Nico watches them for a moment, then nods. "I see why you've made it this far." She turns back to Robin. "But I can't just leave things as they are. I told Dragon I'd make sure you're ready. Before I leave, I'll leave something behind for you—something that'll make sure you're not an easy target."
Nico comes to Robin and places a finger on her forehead, the next moment, Robin clutches her head as she starts to stagger. Nico comes to her and hold her close "Stay calm, Robin, stay calm, don't move too much, keep yourself steady, look up, focus on those that matters to you, then use them as an anchors"
Nami asks Mina "What's happening?" Mina shrugs "What happens to everyone when they access Nico's information network, a little overwhelmed, I was there once, terrible headache"
Robin clenches her jaw, forcing herself to steady her breath. A flood of knowledge rushes into her mind—images, symbols, memories that don't belong to her but feel as though they do. For a moment, it's too much, the weight of countless secrets pressing down on her.
"Steady, steady, breath, slowly, yes, yes, that's it. Find your anchors" Nico says slowly. Robin grits her teeth and forces herself to focus—on her crew, on Luffy's reckless grin, on Nami's exasperated sighs, on Zoro's steady presence, on Franky's laughter, Sanji's smooth words, Chopper's kindness, Brook's music, Usopp's tales. They are her anchor.
"Yes, yes, you're doing really well, Robin, you're stable now, navigate your position in the sea of intel." Robin's eyes twitch as she turns her head in many directions "Stay calm, stay calm, you're under the water, but you're not drown, feel the flow coursing through your body"
Robin exhales slowly, letting herself drift with the current instead of resisting it. The chaos begins to form into patterns, the voices separate into threads of information, the endless flood of knowledge settling into something she can use rather than fear.
Her breathing evens out. The shaking in her hands stops.
"Good, where was that information from? Which eye gave you that vision? Which ear gave you that voice? Tell me, slowly and accurately" Nico asks
Robin takes another deep breath, closing her eyes for a moment before speaking.
"...The vision of the Cipher Pol agents regrouping after our escape—came from an eye I placed in the northern district of Mary Geoise."
Nico nods, her expression calm. "Good. And the voices?"
Robin concentrates, the sea of information swirling around her mind, no longer an overwhelming flood but a vast ocean she is learning to navigate. "The voices of the Celestial Dragons in their panic... That came from an ear I left near the central palace corridors."
Nico smiles. "Very good. You're learning fast. Now—try reaching for something new. Something that is happening now."
Robin furrows her brows, focusing deeper. The world around her fades as she extends her awareness. She searches, not with her body, but with her mind, letting the network flow through her like a second nature.
Then—
"I see it." Her voice is steady now. "The marine battleships near Sabaody. They've received an emergency order. They're setting up a blockade at the Red Line." The crew tenses.
Nico grins. "And there it is. You're in control now, Robin. You're not just seeing—you're watching."
Robin slowly opens her eyes, a spark of something new within them. "This... power..."
Nico steps back, satisfied. "It's yours now. Use it well. It will take a while to learn and manage many information flows at the same time, meditation is a good way to do that. And once you're a professional, you don't need your anchor anymore, you can swim freely in the sea of information without fearing of being drown"
Luffy grins wide, slamming a fist into his palm. "That. Is. AWESOME!"
Sanji crosses his arms but sighs in relief now that Robin is stable. "Well... as long as you're alright, Robin-chwan~."
Zoro smirks. "Hmph. If Robin can do what she just did, things are about to get very interesting."
Robin flexes her fingers, still feeling the weight of the knowledge coursing through her. She meets Nico's gaze. "So can I..."
Nico nods "Of course you can teleport yourself, your crew and your ship to the place where the eyes and ears are, you're the new master of the system, after all. You can use your power to create more eyes and ears based on those I placed before, and when you connect them to the main system, you can keep expanding"
The crew stares at Robin in awe, the full implications of her newfound ability sinking in.
"You mean... she can teleport us anywhere she has an eye placed?" Usopp exclaims, his jaw nearly hitting the deck.
Franky whistles. "That's some next-level SUPER ability right there!"
Robin closes her eyes, focusing. She can feel it now—the network stretching across the world, countless unseen eyes and ears feeding her information. The more she focuses, the clearer it becomes.
"I can move us," she says slowly, testing the idea, "but only to places where the system already exists. If I want more locations, I need to expand it."
Nico smirks. "Exactly. And given enough time, you can make sure there's no place in this world beyond your reach."
Luffy's eyes sparkle with excitement. "Robin! That means we can just POOF—straight to the One Piece!"
Nico chuckles softly. "That's off-limit, I won't allow you to skip your journey, no, not a chance, the eyes and ears in the next islands in your trip will be blocked until you complete some missions to open them, that way I can ensure you don't just jump to One Piece."
Mina clasps her hands together "Well, since Robin is the new master of the system, let's do something fun. Everyone gather around, if you want to call someone who you haven't talked to for a long while, let Robin help you make a call to them, that's a way to help learn how to create eyes and ears on specific places"
Nico nods "Once you found them, create an eye to see and project you vision here for them to see, an ear for them to speak into and a mouth for them to hear from the other side, that's an all rounded training, also for the crew to see their loved ones again"
Robin nods, closing her eyes as she focuses. "Let's see... I need to find an eye near him first."
She reaches into the vast network, searching for a point of connection. The world is massive, but her system is finely tuned—every hidden eye and ear acts as a beacon.
A moment later, she finds one. An old port town, lively with the chatter of pirates. At the bar, a familiar red-haired man leans back with a grin, a tankard in hand. His coat drapes over his shoulders, the scar across his eye prominent as he listens to his crew.
Robin opens her own eyes. "I found him."
She flicks her wrist, and an eye blooms on the ship's mast. It blinks once before projecting an image of Shanks' surroundings in the air like a moving painting. An ear follows, placed on the railing, and a mouth forms on the deck.
Luffy steps forward. "Shanks!" he shouts excitedly.
Shanks pauses mid-drink. His good eye widens as he hears the voice. "Oi...? What the—Luffy?!" He looks around before spotting the eye forming on the wall of the bar. He blinks, then bursts into laughter. "Gahahaha! What the hell is this? Some kind of Devil Fruit trick?"
The rest of the Red-Haired Pirates gather around, staring in surprise.
Luffy beams. "It's me! I just wanted to check in on you!"
Shanks grins, leaning toward the projection. "Well, well, looks like you've come pretty far, huh? You're using some crazy new powers now?"
Luffy crosses his arms. "Nah, it's Robin's power! She's letting us talk like this!"
Shanks nods approvingly. "That's a real handy crewmate you've got there, Luffy." His tone turns a little softer. "So... how's the journey?"
Luffy's expression becomes serious for a moment before breaking into a determined grin. "It's been tough, but we're getting closer! And when we do, I'm gonna find the One Piece and become King of the Pirates!"
Shanks smirks. "Heh. I wouldn't expect anything less." He lifts his drink. "Then keep going, Luffy. I'll be waiting to see what you do next."
Luffy grins wide, his excitement infectious. "Just you wait, Shanks!" The call ends with Luffy's smile never leaving his face.
Robin turns to the crew "Alright, who's next?"
Zoro steps forward, arms crossed, his usual stoic expression in place. But there's a certain weight in his voice when he speaks. "Hey... give me a call home, will you?"
Robin looks up at him, surprised for a brief moment. Zoro never really talks about his past, let alone his home. But she simply nods, understanding that this is important. "Alright," she says, closing her eyes and focusing.
The air shimmers once more as she searches through the vast network. Unlike Luffy's call, which reached across the seas, this one feels... distant in a different way. Zoro never spoke much about his past, but Robin knew enough to seek the right place.
A quiet village. A small dojo. A familiar graveyard.
Then—an image forms in front of them. The worn-down dojo of Shimotsuki Village. An old man stands outside, his hands resting on his wooden sword, watching the wind rustle through the trees. Koshiro, the dojo master.
His eyes widen slightly as he notices the strange apparition of an ear and eye forming in front of him, and the next moment, images of his student appear. "...Zoro?" His voice is as steady as ever.
Zoro exhales slowly, his face unreadable. "Yeah. It's me."
Koshiro's lips curve into a small smile. "It's been a long time."
A pause. Zoro shifts his stance, rubbing the back of his neck before muttering, "Yeah... sorry about that."
Koshiro chuckles softly. "You don't need to apologize. You were always meant for the sea, weren't you?"
Zoro's jaw tightens slightly before he nods. "Yeah." Another pause. "How's the dojo?"
Koshiro's expression softens. "Still standing. The students train hard every day. They still tell stories about you, you know."
Zoro scoffs. "Hope they're not making me sound soft."
Koshiro laughs. "Not at all. In fact, you might be more of a legend now than you were when you were here." Then, his tone grows quieter. "Kuina would be proud of you."
Zoro freezes for a moment. His grip tightens, then loosens just as quickly. He takes a breath. "Yeah."
For a moment, there's silence. A comfortable, unspoken understanding between a student and his old master.
Koshiro tilts his head slightly. "And you? Have you found what you're looking for?"
Zoro smirks slightly. "Not yet. But I will."
Koshiro nods approvingly. "Then keep going. Don't let the weight of the past slow you down."
Zoro doesn't say anything right away. But then he gives a small nod. "Yeah. Thanks, old man."
Koshiro smiles warmly. "Take care of yourself, Zoro."
The connection fades, the image dissolving like mist in the morning sun.
Zoro lets out a slow breath before turning away, arms crossed once more. He doesn't say anything about it. But for just a moment, his shoulders seem a little lighter.
Robin watches him go, a knowing smile on her lips. "Alright, who's next? Come on, don't hesitate, let me help you call home"
Sanji steps forward, his usual suave demeanor tempered with something more serious. "Robin, give me a call to Baratie, will you?" His cigarette smolders between his fingers, but even he doesn't seem to notice how tightly he's holding it.
Robin nods. "Alright, Sanji. Give me a second."
She closes her eyes, focusing once more. Her network expands across the seas, searching for the familiar floating restaurant. It doesn't take long—Baratie is still where it's always been, bustling with customers, the scent of cooking meat and spices drifting through the air.
An eye and ear form near the kitchen, just as a loud voice booms through the image.
"HEY, YOU DAMN BRATS, I SAID MORE SALT, NOT TO TURN THE STEAK INTO A SALT LICK!"
Sanji smirks immediately. "Yep. That's him."
The eye shifts slightly, settling on a familiar figure in a chef's uniform, his signature curly mustache twitching with irritation. Zeff, the man who raised Sanji, is still running the kitchen like a war zone.
One of the younger cooks stammers, "B-But Chef Zeff, we followed the—"
"NO EXCUSES! A REAL CHEF FIXES THEIR MISTAKES, NOT CRIES ABOUT 'EM!"
Sanji exhales, shaking his head fondly before speaking up. "Still making 'em cry, old man?"
Zeff freezes mid-rant. His sharp eyes flick toward the strange floating eye and ear before narrowing. "...Hah?"
Then, recognition dawns. His expression shifts, a mix of surprise, annoyance, and something else beneath the surface. "Tch. Took you long enough to check in, you damn eggplant."
Sanji chuckles, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, yeah, I know. Been busy."
Zeff crosses his arms. "Too busy to remember the people who kept your ungrateful ass from starving?"
Sanji's smirk falters for just a second before he quickly covers it up. "C'mon, old man. You know I could never forget."
Zeff studies him for a moment before grunting. "Hmph. I should hope not. So? You eating well?"
Sanji flicks his cigarette, smirking again. "I'm the one doing the cooking, of course I'm eating well."
"Tch. Poor bastards must be spoiled rotten."
The kitchen behind Zeff is still as chaotic as ever, but some of the younger chefs have stopped to watch. One of them, a new face, whispers, "Wait... that's Sanji? The Sanji?"
Another cook grins. "Yeah. That guy trained here way back. Now he's a big-shot pirate cook."
Sanji raises an eyebrow. "Oi, you guys keeping my legend alive or what?"
Zeff rolls his eyes. "They'll keep it alive when they learn to chop an onion properly." Then, his tone softens, just a little. "You doing what you set out to do?"
Sanji's smirk fades into something more genuine. "Yeah." He glances at his crew before turning back. "And I'm not stopping till I see it through."
Zeff nods, looking satisfied, though he quickly covers it up with another scowl. "Good. Now don't go dying like a damn fool."
Sanji grins. "You kidding? I'm too handsome to die."
Zeff sighs. "Same cocky little bastard as ever." Then, more quietly, "Take care, Sanji."
Sanji's smile lingers, softer this time. "You too, old man."
The connection fades, the kitchen of Baratie dissolving back into the air.
Sanji exhales, flicking his cigarette away. "Whew. That was somethin'." He turns back to Robin with a grin. "Alright, who's next?" But there's a certain lightness in his step as he moves aside, as if something that had been weighing on him for years just got a little easier to carry.
Franky steps forward, his usual boisterous energy toned down just a bit. He reaches into his coat and pulls out a crumpled piece of paper, unfolding it carefully before handing it to Robin.
"Robin, I need to make a call to this place. Can you help me?"
Robin takes the paper and scans it. Her eyes widen slightly as she recognizes the name. "Tom's Workers' Old Dock—Water 7."
The shipwright's old home. The place where he learned everything. Where he lost everything.
Franky crosses his arms, his usual grin still there, but there's something deeper in his expression. "It's been a long time. I just... wanna see how things are holding up."
Robin nods. "Give me a moment."
She closes her eyes, reaching out with her expanding network. Water 7 comes into view in her mind—still as grand as ever, its waterways bustling with life. She searches, filtering through the images, until she finds it. The old workshop. Though it no longer bears the name Tom's Workers, the spirit of it remains.
An eye and an ear form in the open-air dock, where a few shipwrights are working on a large hull.
The moment the eye focuses, a gruff voice calls out. "Oi! What the hell is this?! Who put a freaky eyeball in my workspace?!"
A familiar face steps into view—Den, Tom's younger brother, still as sharp and hardworking as ever. His webbed hands are covered in grease, his goggles pushed up onto his forehead as he glares at the strange floating eye.
Franky laughs. "YO, DEN! LOOKIN' SUPER AS EVER!"
Den freezes, his already large fishman eyes widening further. "That voice... Wait... FRANKY?!"
The workers around him pause, whispering amongst themselves.
"No way, is that really—?"
"The Franky? The one who helped build the Sea Train?"
"I thought he was a pirate now?"
Den shakes his head, a stunned grin spreading across his face. "Hah! Of all the ways for you to show up, this might be the weirdest one yet."
Franky crosses his arms, smirking. "Weird's kinda my thing."
Den chuckles. "So, what? You just checking in?"
Franky's smirk softens. "Yeah. Wanted to see how things are going. How's Water 7 holding up?"
Den nods. "Better than ever. After the Aqua Laguna disaster, the city's been improving the infrastructure like crazy. The shipbuilding business is booming. Even Iceburg's been pushing for some crazy new innovations." He pauses, looking at Franky more seriously. "You know... you could've come back anytime. No one here hates you."
Franky's smile falters slightly. He looks away for just a second, then back with a grin. "Heh. Yeah, I know. But I got my own journey now, y'know?"
Den studies him for a moment, then nods. "Yeah. I get it. You're building something bigger now."
Franky grins, thumbing toward the Sunny behind him. "Damn right I am."
Den laughs. "Well, if you ever need parts, you know where to find us. Water 7 will always be your home, Franky."
Franky rubs the back of his head, suddenly looking just a little sheepish. "Yeah... Thanks, man."
Den smirks. "Now, are you gonna say hi to Iceburg, or should I tell him you chickened out?"
Franky lets out a loud "SUPER!!!" and flexes. "HELL NO, CALL HIM RIGHT NOW!"
Den laughs. "Alright, alright, hold on." He turns away, calling out. "OI, ICEBURG! PICK UP! WE GOT A CALL YOU WON'T WANNA MISS!"
Robin chuckles as she stabilizes the connection, already reaching toward Iceburg's location. Franky grins, cracking his knuckles.
"Alright, let's see how that bastard's doing."
A few moments later, the eye Robin placed shifts, refocusing inside a grand office lined with blueprints and stacks of paperwork. Sitting at the desk, calm as ever, is Iceburg—Water 7's mayor and the head of Galley-La Company.
The man doesn't even look surprised when the eye appears. Instead, he leans back in his chair, adjusting the tie on his signature fur-lined coat.
"...I was wondering when you'd finally call, you cola-guzzling idiot."
Franky lets out a loud laugh. "BAHAHAHA! ICEBURG, YA BASTARD, STILL LOOKIN' AS CLASSY AS EVER!"
Iceburg sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. "And you're still loud. Some things never change." But there's a hint of amusement in his voice.
Franky crosses his arms, grinning. "C'mon, ya miss me, admit it."
Iceburg raises an eyebrow. "Miss you? The guy who turned my workplace into a weapon-testing ground, then ditched me to sail the seas with Straw Hat?"
Den chuckles in the background. "You should've seen his face when he heard you were sailing with pirates."
Franky laughs, pointing at Iceburg. "You were pissed, huh?"
Iceburg sighs. "Not pissed. Just... unsurprised."
Franky blinks. "Wait, what?"
Iceburg shrugs. "I always figured you weren't meant to stay in one place. You were never just a shipwright—you were a builder. Of ships, of dreams, of crazy inventions. The moment the sea train was finished, I knew you'd move on to the next big thing."
Franky stares for a second, then rubs his nose with a grin. "Tch. You always did see through people, huh?"
Iceburg smirks. "It's my job." He leans forward, resting his elbows on his desk. "So... what's it like? Sailing under Straw Hat?"
Franky's grin widens. "SUPER. The craziest, wildest, most insane adventure I could've ever asked for. We've seen things that'd blow your mind, Iceburg. And our ship—the Sunny—she's a damn masterpiece."
Iceburg chuckles. "I'd expect nothing less. After all, you built her."
Franky nods, then hesitates for a second before saying, "You should see her, man. She's got the soul of the Oro Jackson, but she's all ours. A ship meant for the Pirate King."
Iceburg raises an eyebrow. "The Pirate King, huh?"
Franky's voice carries absolute confidence. "No doubt about it. Luffy's gonna be the one. And I'm makin' sure he's got the best damn ship in the world to carry him there."
Iceburg watches him for a moment, then nods. "Then I guess I'll be looking forward to the day that ship sails into history."
Franky smirks. "Damn right."
Den grins. "Well, if you ever need extra hands on repairs, we're still here. Not that I expect your work to need fixing, but y'know... just in case."
Franky lets out another booming laugh. "HAH! I'll hold ya to that!"
Robin, watching the scene unfold, finally speaks. "Franky, the connection is stable. You can call them whenever you want now."
Franky blinks, then rubs the back of his head. "Heh. Guess that means this ain't goodbye, huh?"
Iceburg smirks. "It never was."
Den nods. "Water 7's doors are always open for you, Franky. Don't be a stranger."
Franky grins, his usual bravado shining through. "Heh. Thanks, guys." He steps back, letting the connection fade, the eye and ear dissolving into petals.
As the vision disappears, Franky stands there for a moment, arms crossed, looking out over the ocean.
Then, with a deep breath, he turns back to the crew, grinning wide. "Alright! Who's next?!"
Usopp comes forth "Robin...I want to make a call home..."
Robin nods gently, already placing an eye and ear in the familiar village of Syrup Village. The vision shifts, flickering through quiet streets until it settles on a cozy little workshop filled with half-finished inventions, tools scattered about, and a massive slingshot hanging on the wall.
Inside, a woman hums softly as she dusts the shelves, her long, wavy hair pulled back in a loose ponytail. Kaya.
Usopp's breath catches in his throat. He hadn't seen her in so long—long enough that part of him worried she might have forgotten him. But as soon as the eye blinks into existence, Kaya turns toward it, her eyes widening.
"...Usopp?"
Usopp stumbles forward, gripping the railing of the Sunny. "K-Kaya! It's me!"
Kaya gasps, stepping closer to the eye. "Oh my god—Usopp! You're okay! Where are you? What—how—?!"
Usopp chuckles awkwardly, rubbing the back of his head. "Uh, long story! But, um... I'm on the Grand Line! Sailing with Luffy! I—" His voice catches for a second. "I just... wanted to see you."
Kaya lets out a soft laugh, brushing a tear from her eye. "Idiot. You disappear for years, and that's all you say?"
Usopp chuckles. "Well, uh, yeah. You know me. Master storyteller, not so great at real talk."
Kaya shakes her head, smiling warmly. "You look... different. Stronger."
Usopp straightens up, puffing out his chest. "Well, of course! I'm Captain Usopp, the Great Warrior of the Sea! I've fought giants, snuck into enemy bases, and even taken down a fish-man or two!"
Kaya giggles. "Still telling tall tales?"
Usopp grins, but this time, there's something different in his eyes. "...Not all of them are tall tales anymore."
Kaya's smile softens. "I believe you."
Usopp blinks. "You do?"
She nods. "Of course. You always talked about adventure, about becoming brave. And now... I can see it. You really are living your dream, aren't you?"
Usopp swallows the lump in his throat, nodding quickly. "Y-Yeah. I really am."
Kaya takes a deep breath. "I'm happy for you, Usopp. Really. And..." She hesitates before adding, "Just... stay safe, okay? I know you're brave now, but... don't push yourself too hard."
Usopp laughs. "No promises! But I'll do my best."
Kaya shakes her head, amused. "That's all I can ask for."
From the side, a voice suddenly chimes in. "Oi, long nose! Took ya long enough to call!"
Usopp jolts. "WHA—?! WHO SAID THAT?!"
The image shifts slightly, revealing Merry, the butler, standing in the doorway with a grin.
Merry smirks. "You've got a habit of making people wait, you know that?"
Usopp sputters. "I—HEY! I'VE BEEN BUSY SAVING THE WORLD, OKAY?!"
Merry just chuckles. "Sure, sure. Well, just know you've got a home waiting for you when you're done with all that."
Usopp stares for a moment, then rubs his nose, trying (and failing) to hide how touched he is. "Y-Yeah. Thanks, old man."
Robin watches the exchange and softly speaks. "The connection is stable now, Usopp. You can call anytime."
Usopp lets out a shaky breath, nodding. "Got it."
Kaya smiles warmly. "Take care, Usopp. And don't forget—you still owe me another adventure story when you get back."
Usopp grins. "Oh, just you wait! I've got plenty to tell!"
As the connection fades, Usopp wipes at his nose, muttering, "Damn sea air... making my eyes all watery..."
Nami smirks. "Sure, Usopp. Blame the air."
The crew chuckles, and Luffy claps Usopp on the back. "That was awesome! Who's next?!"
Nami comes to Robin "Make a call for me, Robin..."
Robin smiles knowingly and nods. "Of course, Nami. Where to?"
Nami hesitates for a moment, then takes a deep breath. "Cocoyasi Village."
Robin's fingers move gracefully as she focuses, placing an eye and an ear in the familiar orange grove of Cocoyasi Village. The vision flickers for a moment before settling on a warm, sunlit field filled with rows upon rows of orange trees swaying gently in the breeze.
And in the middle of it all— Nojiko.
She's kneeling near a tree, tending to the soil, when she suddenly freezes, sensing something unusual. She turns her head, her blue hair catching the sunlight, and then her eyes land on the floating eye and ear Robin created.
Her breath catches. "...Nami?"
Nami grips the railing of the Sunny, her knuckles white. "Hey, Nojiko."
Nojiko's eyes widen, then soften into a warm smile. "You idiot... You finally called."
Nami lets out a half-laugh, half-sob. "Yeah. Sorry it took so long."
Nojiko shakes her head, standing up. "You don't have to apologize. I know you're busy sailing the world, chasing your dreams." She folds her arms, giving her sister a teasing smile. "I just figured you'd call to brag about how rich you are by now."
Nami smirks. "Not as rich as I'd like, but getting there."
From the background, another voice suddenly cuts in. "Nami?!"
The image shifts as someone runs into view—Genzo. The old sheriff of Cocoyasi, still wearing his signature pinwheel hat, stops in his tracks, staring at the floating eye in shock.
Nami chuckles. "Hey, Genzo."
Genzo crosses his arms, trying to look stern but failing as his mustache twitches. "Took you long enough, brat."
Nami rolls her eyes. "I get it, I get it, I should've called sooner."
Nojiko laughs. "She's been gone for years, and you still talk to her like she just went to steal some tangerines from the market."
Genzo huffs. "Well, she hasn't changed, has she?" Then, more softly, he adds, "It's good to see you, Nami."
Nami swallows hard, nodding. "It's good to see you too. How's everyone?"
Nojiko smiles. "Happy. Peaceful. The village is thriving, the fields are full, and there hasn't been a single threat since... well, you know."
Nami lets out a breath she didn't realize she was holding. "That's good. That's really good."
Genzo studies her carefully. "And you? You're still chasing the Grand Line?"
Nami grins. "Of course. I'm gonna chart the whole world, make the greatest map in history."
Nojiko smirks. "Still as stubborn as ever."
Nami chuckles, but then her expression softens. "I miss you guys."
Nojiko's smile turns gentle. "We miss you too. But we know you're exactly where you're meant to be."
Genzo nods. "And if anyone out there gives you trouble, you tell 'em Cocoyasi Village will come knocking."
Nami lets out a watery laugh. "Yeah, I'll do that."
Robin gently speaks. "The connection is stable. You can call them anytime."
Nami wipes at her eyes quickly before anyone can comment. "Yeah. Thanks, Robin."
Nojiko leans closer to the eye. "Don't be a stranger, Nami. And take care of yourself, okay?"
Nami grins. "I always do."
Genzo sighs. "That's what I'm worried about."
The connection fades, and for a moment, Nami just stands there, staring at where the vision used to be. Then she exhales deeply, turning back to the crew with a smirk.
"Well, that wasn't so bad. Who's next?"
Sanji hands her a tissue with heart eyes. "Nami-swaaan, you're even more beautiful when you're emotional~"
Zoro snorts. "Tch. Sap."
Nami rolls her eyes, stuffing the tissue into her pocket before looking at the others. "Well? Who's up?"
Chopper comes to Robin next "Robin, help me make a call to doctor Kureha, will you?"
Robin smiles warmly. "Of course, Chopper."
She focuses, weaving her power to place an eye and an ear in Drum Island, specifically in Dr. Kureha's castle. The snowy winds howl outside as the vision clears, revealing the familiar interior of the doctor's clinic—walls lined with medical books, bottles of strange medicines, and a faint scent of alcohol in the air.
A sharp voice rings out. "If you're going to stare, you better have a damn good reason!"
The image shifts as Dr. Kureha walks into view, her sharp eyes narrowing at the floating eye. She places her hands on her hips, a bottle of sake in one hand, as she glares suspiciously. "...Well? Who's spying on me? Speak up before I kick your ass."
Chopper practically lights up. "DOCTOR KUREHA!"
Kureha's expression freezes. Then, her lips curl into a knowing smirk. "Hah! Well, well. If it isn't my little reindeer brat."
Chopper hops excitedly in place. "It's me! It's really me! I— I wanted to check in! I miss you!"
Kureha scoffs, taking a swig of her drink. "Hah! Took you long enough! What, you too famous to call your old teacher now?"
Chopper waves his hooves frantically. "No! No way! I've just been really busy sailing with my friends!"
Kureha chuckles. "Busy becoming a real doctor, I hope."
Chopper nods eagerly. "I am! I'm learning so much! I've treated all kinds of injuries, poisons, and diseases! And— and I even made my own new medicine!"
Kureha raises an eyebrow. "Oh? Not bad, brat. You better not be half-assing your work. A doctor's job isn't just about treating wounds—it's about keeping your patients alive. You screw up, and it's on you."
Chopper nods seriously. "I know. That's why I'm working as hard as I can! I want to be the best doctor in the world!"
Kureha's smirk softens, just a bit. "...Hmph. Good answer."
Then, another familiar voice booms in the background—"CHOPPER?!"
The image shifts as a huge, furry figure charges into view—Dalton. The king of Drum Island looks stunned, his usual calm demeanor momentarily forgotten. "Is that really you?"
Chopper grins widely. "Dalton! Yeah, it's me!"
Dalton shakes his head with a fond chuckle. "It's been a long time, Doctor Tony Tony Chopper."
Chopper beams at the title. "I'm still learning, but I'll make you proud!"
Kureha laughs. "You'd better! Or I'll come drag you back here myself!"
Chopper wipes at his eyes, sniffling. "I really miss you guys..."
Dalton nods. "We miss you too, Chopper. But you're doing exactly what you were meant to do. Hiriluk would be proud."
Chopper's breath catches at the mention of Dr. Hiriluk, but he smiles through his tears. "Yeah... I think so too."
Kureha clears her throat. "Tch. Enough crying. You call more often, got it? I don't have time to chase after you."
Chopper nods furiously. "I will! I promise!"
Robin smiles as she maintains the connection, letting Chopper talk a little longer before the call naturally fades.
As the image disappears, Chopper sniffs and wipes his nose with his hoof. "T-That was great... Thanks, Robin..."
Robin nods kindly. "Anytime, Doctor Chopper."
Brook chuckles. "Yohoho! That was quite heartwarming! If I had a heart, it would be swelling right now!"
Chopper waves them off, embarrassed. "Sh-Shut up, you guys! It's not like I'm happy or anything! Idiots!"
Robin chuckles. "Brook, come here, you're the last one"
Brook steps forward, his skeletal fingers tapping against his cane. "Yohoho! I suppose it's finally my turn. Robin, my dear, could you help me make a call?"
Robin nods. "Of course, Brook. Who do you want to reach?"
Brook's usually cheerful demeanor softens. "If possible... could you connect me to Laboon?"
The crew falls silent.
Nami's eyes widen. "Laboon... the whale at Reverse Mountain?"
Brook nods solemnly. "Yes. I made a promise, after all."
Robin closes her eyes, reaching out with her newfound power. She searches across the vast sea, feeling for the presence of the massive whale who has waited decades for his crew to return.
Finally, she finds him.
A new eye and ear materialize at Reverse Mountain, deep in the sea where the giant whale rests. The crew watches as Laboon comes into view—his massive form looming beneath the water, the scar on his forehead as prominent as ever. His eyes, filled with longing, blink slowly as he gazes up at the sky.
Brook's voice trembles slightly. "Laboon..."
Laboon's entire body jolts. His small eyes widen as the familiar voice echoes through the water. He lets out a deep, thunderous sound—a mixture of surprise and hope.
Brook grips his cane tightly. "Laboon! It's me, Brook! I'm alive!"
Laboon lets out a massive cry, his entire body shaking as he swims in excited circles, the waves around him crashing wildly. The once-patient whale, who had waited 50 years, suddenly bursts with joy.
Brook laughs, though his voice wavers. "Yohoho! I see you're still as strong as ever, my friend!"
Laboon presses against the eye, as if trying to reach through it, his excited cries echoing through the connection.
Brook's tone turns soft. "Listen, Laboon... I haven't forgotten. None of us did. We're still sailing, still making our way to you. And this time, I swear on my very soul—we will see you again."
Laboon lets out a deep, emotional whale song that reverberates through the sea. The entire crew watches, some smiling, some with misty eyes.
Franky wipes at his face. "Damn it... I got cola in my eyes..."
Sanji exhales smoke, looking away. "Tch... stupid whale..."
Even Zoro crosses his arms, nodding slightly. "He never stopped waiting."
Brook places a hand over his ribs where his heart should be. "Thank you, Laboon, for waiting all this time."
Laboon lets out one final loud, determined cry, as if saying: I will wait for you, no matter how long it takes.
Robin gently closes the connection, letting the vision fade. The deck remains quiet for a moment, the weight of the reunion settling in.
Brook turns to Robin, bowing deeply. "Robin, my dear... thank you. Truly."
Robin smiles warmly. "You're welcome, Brook."
Luffy grins. "Alright! Now we just have to keep going! Laboon's waiting for us, so we can't lose!"
The crew erupts with renewed energy, their determination stronger than ever.
Brook straightens, tapping his cane against the deck. "Indeed! And when we do return, I shall sing for him the greatest song of reunion! Yohohoho!"
Nico comes to Robin "Robin, what about you? Who do you want to call?" Robin pauses, caught off guard by the question. The crew turns to her, waiting.
For a moment, she considers saying no one—after all, who could she call? Her mother, Olvia, was gone. Professor Clover, the scholars of Ohara... all lost to history. There was no home waiting for her, no place from the past to return to.
But then—she remembers something. Slowly, she meets Nico's gaze. "...There is someone." Nico nods approvingly. "Go on."
Robin closes her eyes, reaching deep into the sea of information now at her command. Unlike the others, she doesn't search for a person. She searches for a place—the ruins of Ohara.
In her mind, she feels the familiar cold of ancient stone, the towering shelves of books drowned in ash. But beneath it all, something still lingers. A presence.
Robin's eyes snap open. "I found it."
An eye and ear manifest in a place long abandoned—the ruins of the Tree of Knowledge, where Ohara's scholars made their last stand.
Through the connection, the crew sees it—the burned remains of Robin's past. The once-proud library stands in solemn silence, the lake surrounding it still and untouched. Though nature has begun to reclaim the ruins, the scars of the Buster Call remain.
Robin exhales shakily. She had been here once before, after meeting Saul again... but now, standing before it in this way, something feels different.
Then, she hears it. A voice—not of a person, but of whispers. Faint, like echoes of the past.
Nico watches her carefully. "You can hear them, can't you?"
Robin nods, eyes wide. "The voices of the past... the knowledge they left behind..."
The crew remains silent, sensing this was a moment meant for Robin alone.
Gently, Robin places a hand against the eye, as if she were reaching out to touch the ruins themselves.
"...I'm still searching," she whispers. "I haven't stopped. I will find the truth. For all of you."
The whispers seem to swell, as if answering her. As if acknowledging her.
Robin's lips curve into the softest of smiles. "...Thank you."
And with that, she closes the connection. Silence lingers on the ship. But this time, it's a peaceful silence.
Robin turns back to the crew, the warmth still in her eyes. "Let's keep going." Luffy grins. "Yeah! We've got a world to see!"
Mine comes to hug Nico "You did something incredible today, you know? Arto would surely be proud"
Nico smiles softly, returning Mina's embrace. "You think so?"
Mina nods firmly. "I know so. You gave them something they never expected—a chance to reconnect, to face their past and carry it forward. That's more than just incredible, Nico. That's... priceless."
Nico chuckles, shaking her head. "Well, I suppose even an 'all-seeing eye' can do some good every once in a while."
Mina pulls back just enough to look at her. "You always do good, Nico. Even if it doesn't always seem that way at first."
Nico holds her gaze for a moment before sighing dramatically. "You're getting sentimental on me."
Mina grins. "Only because you deserve it."
The moment lingers before Nico finally smirks. "Alright, alright. Enough with the emotions, let's wrap things up around here, I've gather enough data from this world, it's about time we head home"
Mina's groans "Aww~C'mon, Robin, can we just stay here for just one more day, just one more day?" She puts up puppy eyes to sway Nico, but her friend was steadfast "That's a no, Mina, weekend has ended and you need to go home to deal with the financial papers, remember? Sitri clan hospitals' debts?"
Mina groans "Ughh, why do you have to remind me about debts among all things?"
Nico chuckles, crossing her arms. "Because if I don't, you'll conveniently 'forget' until it piles up into a financial disaster."
Mina pouts, crossing her arms. "It's not forgetting—it's strategic procrastination."
Nico raises an eyebrow. "Mhm. Tell that to the creditors."
Mina sighs dramatically. "Fine, fine. We'll go." Then she brightens. "But next time, we're staying for an entire arc."
Nico smirks. "We'll see."
Mina turns to the Straw Hats, her expression shifting to something more serious. "This is where we part ways. We had a lot of fun being here and we do hope you can reach your desired goal"
She comes to Franky "Here are something that could definitely help you on your journey forward"
She hands him some blueprints and a book "These are the blueprints for enhanced versions of Thousand Sunny's engine and defense system"
She holds up the book to him "And this is an engineer book from my world. There are all sources of knowledge regarding engines and mechanics. You might find some inspirations in here"
Franky takes the blueprints and the book, his eyes widening with excitement. "Whoa! These designs... they're super advanced!" He flips through the pages rapidly, his grin growing wider. "And this book—this is insane! The engineering in here is like nothing I've ever seen!"
Mina chuckles. "Figured you'd like it. I made sure to include things that would be compatible with the technology of your world. With these, you can make the Sunny even more invincible."
Franky's hands tighten around the gifts, his expression shifting to something more serious. "Thank you, Mina. I promise I'll put these to good use."
Mina smirks. "That's what I like to hear."
She then turns to Usopp, pulling out a small, sleek-looking scope. "For you, sniper king. This is a multi-vision scope from my world. It enhances accuracy, night vision, and even has an auto-aim assist function. Might come in handy when you're sniping from a distance."
Usopp carefully takes the scope, eyes wide in amazement. "No way... This thing looks crazy advanced!" He grins, holding it up dramatically. "With this, my sniping will reach godly levels! The enemies won't even see me coming!"
Mina laughs. "That's the spirit."
She moves down the line, handing out small but useful gifts to the crew—each one tailored to their skills and needs. A special climate analysis device for Nami, a rare medical herb for Chopper, and a customized lightweight whetstone for Zoro's blades.
When she reaches Luffy, she hesitates for a moment before grinning and tossing him a small, metallic bracelet. "This won't make you stronger, but it will keep track of your vitals and energy output. Just a little something to help you push your limits safely."
Luffy tilts his head, examining it. "Huh? That's pretty cool! But I don't really get it."
Mina chuckles. "Just punch stuff like usual, it'll do its job."
She then steps back, looking at the crew one last time. "Alright. That's everything. You guys better make it to Laugh Tale and show the world what you're made of."
Nico nods. "And remember—no shortcuts. The journey matters just as much as the destination."
With that, she and Mina take a step toward the shimmering portal, their figures outlined by the glow.
Mina gives a final wave. "Until we meet again, Straw Hats."
And then, just like that, they're gone—vanishing back to their own world, leaving behind only memories and the tools to help the crew move forward.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Robin dragging Nami out of the lab to a desk full of papers)
Nami and Robin come out from the portal "Ahhhhh~That trip was refreshing I must say" Nami stretches her body, Robin follows right behind her "Indeed, never thought meeting our counterparts can be that fun, everyone in the crew was cute, especially Chopper" Robin giggles.
"Oh, you don't know how much I want to capture that small guy and bring him home to pet, he was so cute" her eyes then lay on Rias and Albedo "Oh, hello my dear little sis, missed me?" Nami comes to hug Rias
"Miss you? I was worried sick, you've gone for 3 weeks and you said you would only leave for days" Rias shows them the note that read 'Testing INA, return in a few days' Nami and Robin blink "But it was only a few days, we've been on that ship like....3 days, right Robin?"
She nods "Yes, we've only gone for 3 days, how come it's been 3 weeks already?"
Notes:
A/N: We're getting closer to the main storyline, I'll skip Issei and Asia's recruitment to move straight to Riser's arc, to stay tuned
Chapter 35: The meeting
Summary:
The 'calm' before the Rating Game
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Robin wonders as she looks through the sector until her eyes spot something on the control panel of the sector "Ohh, So that's how it is"
"What happened, Robin? Why didn't we see the difference in time between worlds?" Nami checks the control panel of INA "It didn't display anything"
Robin points at the control panel for them to see the time-dilation function is on "This caused our oblivion" she turns it off "Time in this sector, or any other sectors with this function, would be flexible. It changes due to the setting of the function, normally, the setting is 1, meaning it will follow the time of this world, but it still remains flexible because it was turned on."
She points out "When the portal was opened to another world, time inside this sector was automatically changed to fit the time of the target world due to the flexibility of the function, that's why we saw no differences in time flow of our world and the target world we wanted to travel to"
Nami whistled. "So that's why the time field displayed nothing, the time in here adjusted itself when we headed in and changed back automatically when the portal was closed, the flexible side would change to match the static side"
Rias clasps her hands "Well, that concludes the mystery, it seems you all had fun in your adventure?" Rias' face displays a tint of unpleasure "While I was here preparing for my Rating Game against Riser Phenex"
Nami chuckled sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head. "Ehehe~ Sorry, little sis. Didn't mean to ditch you before your big match."
Robin smiled, her eyes filled with amusement. "To be fair, we were conducting valuable research."
Albedo, arms crossed, smirked at Rias. "And it seems like you were busy as well. The Rating Game against Riser, huh? I assume you have a plan?"
Rias nods "Of course, we'll surely win no matter what, we've been training restlessly the whole year for this, there is nothing Riser can do to beat us, I can confidently say that. What concerned me is the 2 new members of my peerage, especially Issei "
Nami shots up "WHAT!? You recruited that pervert!? Please tell me you have a good reason or else I'll have to stick to you all the time to make sure you think before you do. If your reason wasn't reasonable, I will myself research a way to kick him out of your peerage."
Robin chuckles "Yeah, she can definitely do that, Nami made INA, after all"
Albedo nods "I can see Nami's point, having him in your peerage meaning he can come and go this mansion of ours, and considering master's harem, things will really be annoying"
Nami comes to Rias, her eyes playful but sharp "So tell me, my beloved little sister, why did you recruit him?"
Rias takes a deep breath before revealing to Nami "Well, it's because of his Sacred Gear–the Boosted Gear..."
Nami blinks "That's it? His freaking luck!?" Nami snaps, puts on her glasses and researcher trench coat "Alright, don't stop me, Robin, I'll start my research"
She calls out the AI of the Simulation Room "Selene, Let Arto know his beloved Nami needs a new sector to research how to kick a person out of a peerage without death, and she needs it right now!" Nami commands
Rias groaned, rubbing her temples. "Nami, stop. You're overreacting."
Nami huffed. "Overreacting? I call it preemptive damage control! Do you have any idea how bad it would be if that walking pervert had free access to our home? Do you want to deal with him sneaking around and trying to peek on everyone?"
Robin, still amused, leaned on a nearby wall. "She has a point, you know. Issei Hyoudou isn't exactly known for his self-restraint."
Albedo smirked. "Indeed. I am more than willing to crush him the moment he steps out of line."
Selene, the AI of the Simulation Room, chimed in. "Acknowledged. Requesting authorization from Master Arto for the creation of a new research sector on peerage expulsion methods."
Rias groaned louder. "Nami, please. Just let me explain before you go rewriting the laws of magic again."
Nami crossed her arms. "Fine. You've got two minutes."
Rias took a deep breath. "Listen. His Sacred Gear isn't just some random luck-based ability—it's the Boosted Gear. One of the Two Heavenly Dragon Gears. It houses the soul of Ddraig, the Welsh Dragon of Domination. With proper training, it can rival even gods. And right now? He's already growing at an absurd rate. If we train him properly, he could become one of my strongest assets."
"And let me guess, the training part is where you're concerned, correct?" Nami directs her gaze at Rias' eyes "I knew it, and let me make another guess, you used 8 Pawns to recruit him, yes?"
"Just 5, sis" Rias mutters, Nami sighs "Selene, ignore Arto's permission, open a new sector for me, I'll explain to him later when he is home, and yes, I'll take all responsibility for my action, so open it, now!"
Selene responded instantly. "Acknowledged. Renovating empty research sector 54 under new name: 'Peerage Expulsion Methods.' Estimated time until sector is fully operational: thirty minutes."
Rias groaned, rubbing her forehead. "Nami... are you really going to do this?"
Nami scoffed. "Absolutely. You knew using 5 Pawns meant he's one single reincarnated Devil who carries over half of your whole Pawn set. That means he's basically ½ of your frontline. And if you're already worried about handling his training, that just makes it worse."
Robin tapped her chin, intrigued. "It does raise a valid point. If Issei ever became a problem—or worse, a liability—it would be nearly impossible to remove him from your peerage without serious consequences."
Albedo smirked, arms crossed. "And if he proves to be a danger to our Master's peace, there's no question what will happen to him."
Rias sighed. "I get it, okay? But I already made my decision. He has potential, and with the right discipline, he'll be an invaluable ally."
Nami rolled her eyes. "Potential isn't the issue—control is. And considering how 'fast' he's growing, I don't like the idea of waiting until it's too late to figure out an emergency exit plan."
Selene chimed in again. "New sector successfully initialized. Would you like to define initial research objectives?"
Nami smirked. "Yes. Start with alternative methods of removing a reincarnated Devil from a peerage without death or catastrophic consequences. Also, look into theoretical ways to reclaim spent Evil Pieces and redistribute them."
Robin chuckled. "You're really putting all this effort into an escape plan, huh?"
Nami shrugged. "Hey, I'm not saying we will kick him out, but if we need to, I'd rather have options."
Albedo nodded approvingly. "A wise precaution."
Before Nami leaves Sector 80 to head to Sector 54 to checkout her new researching facility, she stops midway and comes to hug Rias "Little sister, I love you, I love you a lot, that's why I do this, I'm not mocking your decision making, I truly don't"
Her voice gets warmer "Because of your decision Arto is here, we are here with all these advancements and innovations surrounding us, because you trusted Arto and his baseless ideas back then, so I see why you trusted Issei. But I won't allow a person who can't grow out of his stupid perversion holding you or your peerage back, okay? You can give him all the chances you can, but know this, if he doesn't meet the standard, you have something to get him out"
Rias froze for a moment, taken aback by Nami's sudden shift in tone. She felt the warmth in Nami's embrace, the sincerity that radiated from her words. Rias hesitated before hugging Nami back, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "I understand, Nami. I know you care. And you're right, if Issei doesn't live up to his potential, I will have a backup plan ready. I won't let him hold me or my peerage back."
Nami pulled away just enough to look Rias in the eyes. "Good. And remember, I'll be here to support you, little sis, no matter what happens. You're not alone in this."
Rias gave a small nod, appreciating her sister's words. "Thanks, Nami. I'll do my best to make sure everything works out."
"Of course you will," Nami said with a playful wink, ruffling Rias's hair like she used to when they were younger. "Now, let's see what this new research sector can offer. You know, I might find something to make this whole peerage thing even more efficient."
Robin, who had been watching the exchange with a bemused smile, pushed herself off the wall. "Well, since we're all in agreement, I think it's time for us to make ourselves scarce. Nami's going to work her magic in Sector 54, and I have my own experiments to attend to."
Albedo gave Rias a reassuring smile. "Take care of yourself, Rias. And remember, we're here if you need us."
Rias nodded, feeling a bit more at ease now that the tension was starting to lift. "Thanks, everyone. I appreciate it."
As Nami turned to head toward Sector 54, she called out over her shoulder, "And don't worry, Rias. I promise I won't do anything drastic. Not yet, anyway."
But before Nami could leave sector 80, Robin pulls her back by the collar "Not so fast, Nami, do you remember what you promised me before we went to that world?" She leans closer "What promise? Did I promise something?" Nami tilts her head.
Robin pulls Nami back playfully "Nami, for information, your project must wait, have you forgotten that you have 3 weeks of financial reports to look through?" Nami blinks as she turns back to Robin "What are you talking about?"
"Oh, don't play dumb like that, you're the one who promised to deal with them once you're back, and look at the time, it's 3 weeks already" Robin smirks as she pulls Nami back closer to her
"And let me remind you of whose papers you are dealing with, they are all from Sitri clan's hospitals regarding their lingering debts that you yourself promised to deal with to make them sustainable and debt-free in order to make a name for yourself." Robin's voice is stern and determined.
Nami groaned dramatically, slumping forward as if Robin had just stabbed her in the back. "Ughhh, why do you have to remind me of that right when I'm fired up for research?"
Robin chuckled, adjusting her glasses. "Because you conveniently 'forgot' that you left a mountain of paperwork behind. And someone has to make sure you actually follow through on your promises."
Albedo smirked. "Oh? And here I thought the great Nami, genius inventor and financial mastermind, could handle a little paperwork."
Nami shot Albedo a glare before dramatically grabbing Robin's shoulders. "Robin, my dearest, wisest, most reliable companion, surely you—"
"—am not doing your work for you," Robin interrupted with a smirk.
Nami groaned again, shaking Robin slightly. "Come on, it's just a little bit of financial wizardry! How bad can it be?"
Robin's smirk widened as she pulled out a thick stack of documents from her inventory, practically slamming them into Nami's arms. "Sitri's hospitals have hundreds of financial reports, loan negotiations, and debt restructuring plans—all waiting for your review and approval. And let's not forget that you also promised to find a way to make them debt-free permanently. Have fun."
Nami stared at the papers in horror. "Hundreds? No, no, no—Selene, quick, run an advanced algorithm to—"
Robin cleared her throat. "Selene, deny all automation requests regarding financial matters for the next 72 hours. Code Robin"
"Understood," Selene replied immediately.
Nami gasped, clutching the papers like they were a death sentence. "You traitor!"
Robin smiled sweetly. "What can I say? My authority over Selene is 1 stage higher than you, I'm her mother after all"
Rias, watching the scene unfold, couldn't help but giggle. "You brought this on yourself, Nami. You're the one who made all those promises."
Albedo smirked. "And you did claim that managing finances was 'as easy as breathing' for you."
Nami pouted, grumbling under her breath as she flipped through the papers. "I hate past me. Past me is the worst."
Robin patted her on the back. "Well, present you has a lot of reading to do. I suggest you start now before it becomes four weeks of backlog."
With a dramatic sigh, Nami slumped onto a nearby couch, resigned to her fate. "Fine, fine. But the moment I'm done, I'm heading straight to Sector 54."
Robin smirked. "Of course you are. Now, get to work, genius."
Before she could get to work, her phone vibrated, on the other side of the phone was the sweet, gentle voice of Nami's adopted mother, Venelana Gremory "Nami, my dear daughter, where have you been? You went missing for 3 weeks without a word and left your company Abyga in an unmanaged state. I had to jump in to keep your face in front of the executives, you know?"
Nami's sweat runs cool as she listens "Welp, you let the Iron Lady of the family handle 'your' work, you're in so much trouble, sis" Rias talks sweetly next to Nami who is gulping non-stop "This weekend I'll come to your home for dinner, I've already informed Grayfia about it, and by then, you've better had a good explanation for your disappearance because our talk will be quite long"
Nami felt a chill run down her spine as Venelana's calm yet dangerously sweet voice echoed in her ears. She forced a nervous chuckle. "M-Mother! You know how research can get... I lost track of time! Hehe..."
On the other end, Venelana sighed. "Three weeks, Nami. Three whole weeks, and you left Abyga unattended. I had to step in and smooth things over with the executives. Do you know how difficult it is to convince them that their brilliant, unpredictable CEO hasn't just abandoned ship after 1 week of opening?"
Nami swallowed hard, gripping the phone as if holding onto dear life. "Uhh... I can totally explain! You see, there was this incredibly important—"
Venelana's voice remained sweet, but Nami could feel the steel behind it. "Oh, I know it was important, dear. Important enough to vanish without informing anyone and leaving your company in shambles? That is what I want to hear you explain over dinner."
Robin, Albedo, and Rias were all watching with barely concealed amusement as Nami struggled.
Rias leaned closer and whispered, "Grayfia's definitely preparing the tea set for the 'serious conversation' right now."
Nami winced. "Mother, I promise I'll fix everything, okay? I'll personally oversee all pending company matters—no automation, no delegation—I will do it."
Venelana hummed. "That's the bare minimum of what you'll be doing, young lady. We'll discuss the rest this weekend."
Nami nodded quickly, then realized Venelana couldn't see her. "Y-Yes, of course! I'll be there! Wouldn't miss it for the world!"
Venelana sighed, her tone softening just a little. "Good. I expect you to be at home on time, Nami."
Click. The call ended, leaving Nami frozen in place, still holding the phone to her ear. Robin was the first to break the silence. "Well... You're definitely doomed."
Nami doesn't put down her phone, but she looks for Arto's number "I need to call him, now, this is code red for my life. At times like this, only he can ease Mom, she has a really soft spot for her sweet, beloved son-in-law that no other kid of hers has" Nami thinks as she quickly looks for Arto's number
The sound of the call raises the tension as Nami slowly loses her patience, her shoes clicking endlessly against the floor of sector 80. Rias comes to Nami as she was calling with a smirk "Oh~You're calling our dear husband to deal with Mom? Smart, but you're that desperate already?"
Nami shot Rias a glare while the phone kept ringing. "Desperate? Rias, this is code red! Mom is furious! If I don't fix this, she's going to make me sit through a ten-hour lecture on responsibility, and trust me, I'd rather fight Akeno barehanded than deal with that!"
Rias chuckled, clearly entertained. "And yet, instead of handling it yourself, you're throwing dear Arto into the fire? Some future wife you are."
Nami scoffed. "Oh please, you would do the same thing if Mom was breathing down your neck. Besides, you know she has a huge soft spot for him. The moment she hears his voice, she'll go from 'corporate executioner' to 'sweetest mother-in-law in the world.' It's a cheat code, really."
Robin smirked. "And here I thought I was the strategist of this group." Before Rias could tease her further, the ringing finally stopped.
"Hey, Nami? What's up?" Arto's calm voice came through, slightly muffled by the sound of the train in the background, and Nami nearly melted with relief.
"Arto, my love, my dear, my lifesaver, my favorite person in existence—I need you to talk to Mom. Now. She's on a warpath, and if I don't smooth things over, I might not survive the weekend."
Arto paused. "What are you talking about, Nami? What happened?" His voice was gentle but filled with concerned
Nami whined dramatically. "I may have accidentally gone missing for three weeks because of some minor time dilation issues during an experiment with INA... and left Abyga completely unattended... and Mother had to step in to manage everything for me... and now she's personally coming over for dinner to 'talk' about it."
There was a long pause. "Nami..." Arto finally said.
Nami groaned. "I know! That's why I need you to step in! You're her beloved son-in-law! If you talk to her, maybe—just maybe—she'll go easy on me?"
Arto sighed. "Nami, do you really think I have that much sway over her?"
"Yes," Nami said immediately. "You're her perfect son-in-law. The 'golden boy.' The 'brilliant genius who stole her daughters' hearts.' The only person who can stop her from killing me this weekend!"
Arto pinched the bridge of his nose. "Flattery isn't going to get you out of this."
"Pleaseeee~" Nami begged. "Just a few words! A little smooth-talking! You know she dotes on you! If you tell her I was doing important research and not just disappearing like an irresponsible lunatic, she might not completely eviscerate me at dinner!"
Arto sighed again, but there was a hint of amusement in his voice. "Fine. I'll try to talk to her. But no promises."
"YES! You're the best, Arto!" Nami cheered, nearly dropping her phone. "I love you so much, my sweetest Arto~"
Arto chuckled. "Alright, alright. I'll see what I can do. Just... start preparing your explanations now. You know she's going to grill you, no matter what I say."
Nami groaned. "Ughhh... I know. But at least if she's not in 'Iron Lady Interrogation Mode,' I might survive..."
"...you will, she will make sure you will survive that, so be prepared, complete your work, make future plans, growth paths for the company and set everything at Abyga back into motion like the great CEO you always say you will become." Arto teases
Suddenly, he goes into strategist mode "I'm heading home from Vigrid by train, I'll be home by the time Mother comes so I'll try to lead the discussion further into my healing and Rias' coming Rating Game to reduce pressure for you, but the rest is on you, alright?" Arto set out his plan clearly through the phone
Nami took a deep breath. "Alright, alright... I'll handle it. I'll finish all the pending reports, set up a future roadmap for Abyga, and get everything back in order before she arrives."
Robin smirked, crossing her arms. "Now that sounds like the Nami I know. The one who doesn't just panic, but actually gets things done."
Nami shot her a look. "Oh, shut up. I still am panicking, just... productively."
Arto chuckled on the other end of the line. "Good. Keep that up. By the time I get home, I want to see you prepared, not just whining about impending doom."
Nami huffed. "Geez, so demanding. But fine, fine. I'll get to work."
"Good girl." Nami froze. "...Excuse me?"
Robin and Albedo burst into laughter as Arto simply chuckled again. "See you at home, Nami. Good luck."
Before she could yell back at him, the call ended, leaving Nami fuming. Without another word, Nami leaves the sector with her trench coat left behind and her business suit on to deal with her work.
Meanwhile
Arto uses a communication spell to call Venelana, when she answers, her sweet voice tickles his ears "Ahh~My beloved son-in-law, how have you been healing in Vigrid?" she asks
"I've finished my healing process, mother, I'm heading home now, and I was wondering if you can have dinner with us this weekend? You know, to celebrate my return after 3 weeks in Vigrid" Arto suggests
"That's so kind of you, dear, I was planning to head to your home next week, Grayfia is well aware of that and I'm sure everything will be alright, I do have a little business to deal with in human realm, after all" she giggles.
Arto smiled. "That's wonderful to hear, Mother. I'll make sure everything is ready for your visit. Grayfia and I will prepare something special for dinner."
Venelana giggled softly. "Oh, you always know how to make a lady feel welcome, Arto. I truly appreciate your hospitality. But I must say, I have a rather long discussion planned with Nami regarding her... little disappearing act."
Arto chuckled lightly, already expecting that answer. "I understand. Nami told me about what happened, and I know it was irresponsible of her. But, if I may ask, could you go easy on her? She was caught up in an unexpected time dilation issue during research. It wasn't intentional neglect."
Venelana hummed in thought. "Oh? And why should I let my dear daughter off the hook so easily? I had to step in and manage Abyga in her absence. Do you know how many executives bombarded me with questions?"
Arto let out a small, amused sigh. "I can only imagine. But you also know how passionate Nami is about her work. She truly didn't mean for this to happen. Maybe instead of punishing her outright, you could offer her a way to redeem herself? Something that will make up for the trouble she caused?"
Venelana considered his words, then sighed. "You always did have a way with words, my dear. Very well. I won't completely tear into her... but she will have to prove herself worthy of my forgiveness."
Arto grinned. "That's fair. And I'll make sure she understands that."
Venelana chuckled. "You spoil her too much, you know. Both Nami and Rias are too lucky to have you."
Arto smirked. "I like to think I'm the lucky one."
"Oh, such a charmer," Venelana cooed. "Alright, my dear, I'll see you all this weekend. But tell Nami—she owes me a proper explanation. And perhaps a few business reports to make up for the ones I had to deal with."
"I'll let her know," Arto promised. "Good. Safe travels, my dear son-in-law. I look forward to seeing you soon." As the call ended, Arto leaned back with a satisfied smile. "Well, my part is done, the rest is on you, Nami" Arto leans back at his seat, waiting to head home to welcome his mother-in-law to pay them a visit.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Nami being buried in a mountain of paper)
"I didn't expect it to be this...clean" Nami looks at her office in Abyga headquarters, she expected one or two mountains of papers, but it's quite organized around here.
"That would be lady Venelana's work, she has managed Abyga swiftly when you were away, lady CEO" Nami's secretary, a middle aged woman explains to her.
Nami blinked, her surprise evident. "Wait, Mother did this? I thought she was just helping with the financials... not reorganizing my entire office."
Her secretary nods. "Yes, Lady Venelana ensured everything ran smoothly in your absence, including reorganizing the files and streamlining your pending projects. She's also taken care of the most pressing matters, so you won't have to deal with anything urgent right away."
Nami stands, her mouth slightly agape. "I... I don't know whether to be impressed or terrified." She steps deeper into the room, running her fingers over the neat stacks of paper and meticulously organized files. "She really did all this?"
Her secretary chuckles lightly. "It seems so. Lady Venelana is very thorough when it comes to these things. She made sure the important meetings were attended to and recorded for you to see how things are going, and the executives have all been updated on your return. Everything is in order, however—"
The secretary adjusted her glasses. "She left you a neatly compiled list of pending tasks. While she maintained operations, she expected you to handle any unfinished deals and the upcoming quarterly review personally."
Nami looks through the file to see the tasks left behind by Venelana, mostly about the debts of Sitri clan's hospitals. Among them is a meeting with the executives of the hospitals to talk about the direction of Abyga's work in managing their finance and debts, especially, Sona Sitri will be there as well.
Nami nods "Lucky Rias, look at Sona, having to deal with family business while still in high school. You're lucky because it was I who handled it for you, dear little sister, so you owe me big time" she smirks. Her attention then is back to the papers "Sona will go full professional mode there, so using harem sister card won't be effective with all the executives there.
The secretary smirked slightly. "That would be correct. Lady Sona takes these matters very seriously. She will expect precise financial reports, projections, and viable solutions."
Nami exhaled, flipping through the files. "Alright, no problem. I've handled worse. I just need to review the data, finalize our restructuring proposal, and prepare counter arguments for any objections."
The secretary nodded. "Shall I schedule a prep session for you before the meeting?"
"Yes, please. Also, get me everything we have on the Sitri hospitals' financial history. I need to anticipate Sona's approach."
"Understood. I'll have the documents sent to your office within the hour."
As the secretary left, Nami leaned back in her chair, staring at the ceiling. "Ugh, Sona in full professional mode is a nightmare to deal with. She'll have a counterpoint for every suggestion I make. And if I mess up? Mom will never let me hear the end of it"
(Timeskip: Brought to you chibi Nami working diligently at her desk)
As she was working, a call comes, it's lady Sena Sitri "Good day to you, my financial manager" she talks sweetly through the phone, Nami quickly answers "Yes, good day to you as well, lady Sena, is there anything I can do for you, my lady?"
"There is actually" Sena's voice gets serious "I want to know the current state of the debts we are carrying, and how far are you on the way to deal with it, I asked Venelana when she was managing the place, but she said it's better to ask you, the CEO"
"Mom truly knows how to buy more work for me" Nami sighs internally before she replies "I know you're concerned, Lady Sena, but I can assure you, everything will be fine. All of the experiments and researches of Sitri clan have been moved into Arto's simulation room for months, reducing the experiment cost dramatically, leading to the debts not piling up anymore and the revenue is being used for more productive purposes" Nami answers firmly.
"All we need to do is to deal with the debts that have lingered through the years prior without damaging the quality of the service." Lady Sena Sitri listened attentively, her voice remaining calm yet firm. "I appreciate your assurance, Nami, but as you know, numbers speak louder than words. Have you outlined a concrete financial strategy to eliminate these lingering debts while maintaining operational efficiency?"
Nami nodded, flipping through a report on her desk. "Yes, I've prepared a restructuring plan that focuses on refinancing existing debts through strategic partnerships and leveraging the cost reductions from the Simulation Room. Additionally, we're optimizing the revenue flow by revising billing models—without raising costs for patients, of course. The goal is to clear the outstanding debts within the next three fiscal years without compromising research or patient care."
Sena hummed in approval. "That is a reasonable timeline. However, the Sitri name is built on our dedication to healing, not just financial management. If your plan disrupts the hospitals' core mission, the Sitri family will not accept it."
Nami smirked. "Lady Sena, you wound me. Do you really think I'd propose something that goes against the fundamental values of the Sitri clan? Arto himself designed the Simulation Room to enhance research, not hinder it. We're ensuring stability without sacrificing progress. You have my word."
There was a pause before Sena chuckled softly. "Your confidence is admirable, Nami. Very well, I will review your proposal in detail during the upcoming meeting. But know this—if there are any flaws, my daughter will find them."
Nami grinned. "That's what makes it fun, doesn't it? I look forward to it."
As the call ended, Nami leaned back with a sigh. "Great. Now I really have to make sure this plan is bulletproof..."
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Nami making a speak simulation)
The next day, Nami comes to Stria, the largest hospital in Sitri domain. She walks into a grand meeting room with all the executives of Sitri hospital waiting for her, and the one who stands out the most is Sona Sitri, Nami's fellow sister in Arto's harem, but today, she is her opponent, her eyes were sharp with resolve and determination to make sure Nami couldn't get the better of her. Nami stands before the people and starts presenting about her plan.
Nami adjusted her glasses and stepped forward confidently, placing a data pad on the sleek glass table before her. The room was silent, save for the quiet hum of the monitors displaying financial graphs and projections.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed executives, and of course, Lady Sona Sitri," Nami greeted, her voice smooth and composed. "Today, I present to you a detailed, strategic, and—most importantly—sustainable plan to not only clear Sitri Hospital's lingering debts but to ensure financial stability for the future while maintaining the highest standard of patient care and medical research."
Sona, sitting with her arms crossed, gave a slight nod. "Then let's hear it. Show us how you intend to balance debt clearance, operational costs, and research funding without compromising our hospitals' integrity."
Nami smirked at her rival's challenge. "Gladly." She clicked a button, and a series of holographic projections filled the room, displaying various charts and numerical breakdowns.
"First and foremost, let's address the root cause of the debt accumulation. As you can see here—" she gestured to a timeline of financial losses, "—the majority of the financial strain came from high research expenditures and experimental medical projects that required extensive resources. The breakthrough discoveries were invaluable, but the cost left Sitri hospitals in a difficult position."
Sona adjusted her glasses. "We are well aware of this. What solution are you proposing?"
Nami swiped to the next slide. "For the past few months, all Sitri research has been integrated into Arto's Simulation Room. This has drastically reduced the expenses required for trials, test subjects, and equipment. We're already seeing a 65% decrease in research costs, meaning the hospitals are no longer hemorrhaging funds at the same rate."
Some of the executives murmured amongst themselves, impressed by the cost reduction. Sona, however, remained focused. "That addresses one part of the problem, but not the existing debt."
Nami nodded. "Exactly why my next step is refinancing and revenue optimization. Instead of relying on traditional repayment structures, we've formed strategic partnerships with the Gremory and Astaroth financial sectors to secure lower interest rates and long-term repayment flexibility. This allows us to clear debt gradually without overburdening our hospitals."
Sona narrowed her eyes slightly. "And what of patient care? I don't see how you can reduce debt without increasing costs somewhere."
Nami smirked. "That's the beauty of it. Instead of raising medical fees, we're increasing revenue streams through advanced alchemical treatments and magical pharmaceuticals developed within the Simulation Room. These products, once exclusive to research, are now being streamlined into the medical market, bringing in significant profit."
The executives exchanged glances, nodding at the soundness of the plan. Sona remained silent for a moment before finally speaking.
"You've covered every angle well, Nami. But I have one final question." She leaned forward slightly, her gaze sharp. "What guarantee do we have that this plan is future-proof? If Arto's Simulation Room becomes unavailable, or if market conditions shift, what safety net exists to prevent another financial crisis?"
Nami's grin widened. "I was waiting for that." She tapped the screen, and a new slide appeared, detailing an independent financial security fund.
"I anticipated potential risks, so we're establishing an emergency fund using a percentage of pharmaceutical profits. If external factors disrupt the Simulation Room's availability or market fluctuations impact revenue, we'll have a dedicated reserve to maintain hospital operations without falling back into debt. This ensures stability even in the worst-case scenario."
A heavy silence filled the room as the executives absorbed the full scope of Nami's plan. Finally, one of them cleared his throat.
"This... is incredibly well-structured. I see no immediate flaws in the proposal."
Another executive nodded. "Agreed. If these projections hold, Sitri hospitals could be debt-free within three years without compromising our standards."
Sona closed her eyes briefly before sighing. When she opened them again, her professional mask was still in place, but Nami could see a flicker of admiration behind them.
"Well played," Sona admitted. "You really did your homework."
Nami grinned triumphantly. "Of course. I always do my homework."
With that, the meeting concluded successfully, and Nami walked out with her head held high—one step closer to securing Sitri hospitals' future.
Elsewhere
Zeoticus Gremory, Nami's adopted father and Sora Sitri, Sona's father are cheering for their daughters through the projection of the meeting, their 'friendly' rivalry is at display again, this is not just an argument between Nami and Sona, it's a battle between the wits of Sitri and Gremory, and none of the fathers is ready to back down despite they are looking at the same goal, growth for their respective firm, Zeoticus with Abyga and Sora with his hospitals.
"It's quite confident of you to let your youngest daughter take this argument" Zeoticus smirks "It's my Nami we are talking about, and Sona is facing her head on, I have no doubt she can take on Rias, but Nami, you need at least Serafall, or even...you, to handle her"
Sora Sitri chuckled, leaning back in his chair with a confident smirk. "Oh, come now, Zeoticus. You give your daughter too much credit. Sona has been handling complex negotiations since she was a child. She's inherited my sharp mind and her mother's unshakable discipline. If anything, I should be worried for Nami."
Zeoticus let out a hearty laugh. "Hah! You underestimate my girl. Nami isn't just some business strategist—she's a force of nature. Have you forgotten? She is the one who brought the most profit back to us from her investments. Your daughter may be sharp, but Nami? She's relentless."
Sora scoffed, swirling the glass of fine wine in his hand. "Relentless, yes. But strategy isn't just about aggression, Zeoticus. It's about precision. Sona dissects problems like a surgeon, analyzing every detail before making a move. She doesn't get caught up in emotional plays."
Zeoticus smirked, taking a sip of his own drink. "And that's where Nami holds the advantage. She's not just a strategist—she's a risk-taker. A true entrepreneur. While Sona plays it safe, my Nami creates opportunities where none exist. That's why Abyga is revolutionizing the financial world while Sitri hospitals are still crawling out of debt."
Sora chuckled, his sharp eyes glinting. "Crawling out of debt because of careful, calculated investment. Not reckless spending or blind trust in innovation. Medical care requires stability, not gambling."
Zeoticus leaned in, his smirk widening. "And yet, your daughter put her faith in my daughter's plan today. What does that tell you?"
Sora sighed dramatically. "It tells me that Sona is pragmatic enough to recognize a sound proposal, even if it comes from her rival. But don't get too comfortable, Zeoticus. This is only round one."
Zeoticus laughed heartily. "Oh, I wouldn't have it any other way! Their rivalry is only making both of them stronger. Besides, no matter who wins, it's the future of the Underworld that benefits."
Sora clinked his glass against Zeoticus's. "That, my old friend, is something we can both drink to."
As their daughters continued their high-stakes battle of wits, their fathers sat back, proud of the fierce and brilliant women they had raised.
Back the meeting
The terms and plans are all concluded, everyone is leaving the room, Sona comes to Nami who is still lingering back to the presenting stage. Sona adjusted her glasses, her sharp gaze locked onto Nami. "I'll admit, that was an impressive presentation. You covered every possible loophole and left no room for counter arguments. Even I had trouble finding a weak spot."
Nami smirked, crossing her arms. "Of course you did. This isn't my first rodeo, Sona. Money and numbers are my playground."
Sona sighed, shaking her head with a small smile. "You truly are relentless. No wonder my father gets so riled up whenever your name is mentioned."
Nami chuckled. "Oh? I didn't know I had such an effect on the great Sora Sitri. Should I start charging him for the stress I cause?"
Sona rolled her eyes but smirked slightly. "I'll consider sending you the bill for his wine expenses."
The two stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their discussion still lingering between them.
Then, Sona spoke again, her tone softer. "Honestly... Thank you. As much as I enjoy our rivalry, I know you're doing this for more than just outsmarting me. You really do want to help the hospitals. And for that, I'm grateful."
Nami's smirk softened into something more genuine. "Well, yeah. I might love the competition, but at the end of the day, I want what's best for both Gremory and Sitri clan and....of course, me. This will make my name noticed and we all know where this will go from here"
Sona nodded. "Total power over the finance of other devil clans, our parents are looking forwards to expand the clans, after all, and some leverages can never be of any harm in negotiations"
Nami's eyes gleamed with ambition. "Exactly. If we stabilize the Sitri hospitals and establish a financial foothold, other devil clans will look to Abyga for their financial management. That means influence, power, and a secured future for both our clans. And let's not forget, the more successful this is, the more leverage we have in broader Underworld negotiations."
Sona crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly. "You sound just like our fathers. Always thinking ten steps ahead."
Nami chuckled. "Hey, someone has to keep up with them. But you know as well as I do, this isn't just about family pride. If the Underworld wants to keep evolving, we need to modernize how we handle business. And that starts with us."
Sona sighed, but there was no frustration—just understanding. "I can't argue with that." Then she smirked. "Though, don't think I'll go easy on you next time. I'll make sure Sitri doesn't fall under Gremory's shadow."
Nami grinned. "That's what makes this fun. Just don't be surprised when I keep winning."
Sona comes to hug Nami "Next time, I'll show you, Nami, but for now, let us be sisters again"
Nami happily wraps her arms around Sona "Yeah, let's leave this rivalry behind for a while, we are all his lovers after all." Nami's voice softens by her hug was tighter
"By the way, have you thought about moving in with us? Arto would want that, he never shuts up about you being the only woman of his living away from him"
Sona let out a small sigh against Nami's shoulder, her grip tightening slightly. "I know... I've been thinking about it. A lot, actually."
Nami pulled back just enough to look at her face. "And?"
Sona hesitated, her usual composed demeanor faltering for just a moment. "It's not that I don't want to. I do. But I have responsibilities here, Nami. Sitri still needs me."
Sona then sighs "Besides, you know how skeptical my mother is, she wouldn't allow me to live with you all until Arto and I get married. You should have seen how panic she was when she thought Arto and I had sex before marriage"
Nami burst into laughter, stepping back and clutching her stomach. "Oh, I can totally imagine that! Lady Sena Sitri, the epitome of grace and control, losing her mind over the thought of her precious daughter being 'defiled' before marriage."
Sona groaned, rubbing her temples. "It was a nightmare. She didn't listen to any of my or Arto's explanation, she even tried to ban me from sleeping with him until we get married"
Nami wiped a tear from the corner of her eye, still chuckling. "Oh, that's priceless. Poor Arto, he probably had a heart attack trying to calm her down."
Sona sighed dramatically. "He did. He had to assure her over and over that he 'respects my honor' and has no intention of 'corrupting me' before marriage." She rolled her eyes. "And the worst part? She made him swear it on his soul—as if I don't have my own will in this."
Nami smirked. "Sounds like classic Lady Sena. I bet she's still watching you like a hawk."
Sona crossed her arms, pouting slightly. "She literally checks in on me every week to make sure I 'haven't been seduced.' It's ridiculous."
Nami placed a hand on Sona's shoulder, her expression turning mischievous. "Well, technically, she's right to be worried. I mean, it is Arto we're talking about. Our beloved fiancé, the man who somehow has all of us wrapped around his finger."
Sona's face turned a faint shade of red. "T-That's... beside the point."
Nami grinned. "Mmhmm, sure. But seriously, if living with us full-time isn't an option yet, what about extending your weekends? Stay a few extra days when you can. You know we'd all love to have you around more."
Sona exhaled, thinking it over. "I... I'll talk to my mother about it. Maybe if I frame it as something beneficial for Sitri and Abyga, she'll be more open to the idea"
Nami's grin widened. "Now that sounds like the brilliant strategist I know."
Sona shook her head but smiled softly. "You really are impossible, Nami."
"And you love me for it."
The two shared another laugh before Sona finally relented, nodding. "Fine. I'll see what I can do. Just don't get your hopes up too high."
Nami smirked. "Oh, my hopes are always high."
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Nami and chibi Sona sitting over a chessboard, only for chibi Arto to come and mess the things up)
Nami returns him as she pants, Grayfia brings her a cup of orange juice "How was the meeting, Nami?" She asks sternly as she sits down next to Abyga's CEO.
Nami gratefully took the cup of orange juice, gulping down a few sips before letting out a deep sigh. "Ugh, exhausting. But a success, as always." She leaned back against the couch, rolling her shoulders. "Sona put up a tough front, but in the end, she had no choice but to accept my terms."
Grayfia nodded, her sharp silver eyes studying Nami. "I expected nothing less from you. Lady Venelana will be pleased."
Nami groaned, rubbing her temples. "Ugh, don't remind me. I still have to deal with her this weekend." She looked at Grayfia with hopeful eyes. "You wouldn't happen to have a magical way to escape a very long, very thorough parental lecture, would you?"
Grayfia sipped her own tea, completely unfazed. "I'm afraid not. You dug this hole yourself, Lady Nami. Now you must endure it."
Nami slumped dramatically. "You're supposed to be on my side, Grayfia."
"I am on your side," Grayfia said, setting down her cup. "Which is why I am ensuring you face your responsibilities properly."
Nami huffed. "Responsibilities, my worst enemy."
Grayfia gave her a pointed look. "You handle them well enough when it suits you."
Nami sighed, relenting. "Fine, fine. I'll survive... probably." She took another sip of her juice before smirking slightly. "At least I got Sona to seriously consider moving in with us."
Grayfia raised a brow. "Oh? That is interesting news."
"She's still worried about her mother's reaction, but she's definitely thinking about it," Nami explained. "I just need to give her a little push."
Grayfia chuckled lightly. "You do enjoy meddling, don't you?"
Nami grinned. "It's not meddling. It's strategic encouragement."
Nami finishes drinking the orange juice cup "Ah, delicious as usual, thank you Grayfia" the head maid nods with a smile, Nami loosens her ties as she stands up "I'm heading to grab a shower, care to join me?"
Grayfia raised an eyebrow, her usual composed expression unwavering. "Tempting, but I still have duties to attend to, Lady Nami."
Nami pouted playfully. "Always so responsible, huh? No wonder Arto calls you the perfect maid." She stretched her arms over her head, sighing. "Fine, I'll go enjoy my shower alone...Anyway, Arto will be home by the time Mother comes, right?
Grayfia nods "Indeed, I still don't know why he used train instead of teleporting back home from Vigrid, but still, he will come back eventually, and we'll all be there to greet him home, especially Albedo, she is really getting impatient by now"
Nami chuckled, shaking her head. "Albedo? Impatient? That's an understatement. She's been pacing around like a caged animal since this morning."
Grayfia let out a rare amused sigh. "I had to remind her twice not to storm off and meet his train midway. If she had her way, she'd have dragged him home the moment he left Vigrid."
Nami smirked. "And here I thought I was obsessed with Arto." She stretched again before turning toward the hallway. "Well, I better get cleaned up before the welcoming committee gets too rowdy. If Albedo's like this now, she'll probably tackle him the second he walks in."
Grayfia simply nodded, a knowing glint in her eyes. "Perhaps. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. He's been gone for three weeks, after all."
Nami stopped for a moment, her smirk softening into something more genuine. "Yeah... it has been a while." She turned back, grinning. "Alright, I'm off. If Albedo breaks anything in her frustration, let me know."
Grayfia sighed but nodded. "I'll keep an eye on her." Nami then departs to the bathroom, she gets inside, takes off her clothes and turns on the steaming water.
"Exactly what I need after a long day" Nami sighs in relief as the warm water runs down her face, hair and body. As she was enjoying herself, she felt a pair of arms wrapping around her, she smirked "Rias, my little sister, when did you get in here?"
Rias chuckled, pressing herself slightly against Nami's back. "A few minutes ago. You were too lost in your own world to notice."
Nami smirked, tilting her head slightly. "I should've expected this. You always had a habit of sneaking into my baths."
Rias hummed playfully. "Can you blame me? It's been a while since we had some sister time. You've been so busy lately, running Abyga, handling Sitri's debts, and preparing for Mother's visit. I figured you could use some company."
Nami sighed, leaning back into Rias. "You're not wrong... It's been exhausting. But you know me—I love the challenge."
Rias tightened her embrace slightly, resting her chin on Nami's shoulder. "Why didn't you call me for help? I am as capable as Sona, you know?"
Nami smiled softly, placing a hand over Rias'. "I know. But you have an entire Rating Game ahead of you to win your freedom back, so I wouldn't dare disturb you, especially when your opponent is that arrogant turkey, I want you to win even more."
Nami sighs as she rests a hand on Rias' head "Besides, you have 2 new members to take care of, even one of them is Issei, he still needs some care and guidance. Talking about new members, who is the other one?" Nami asks
"Her name is Asia Argento" Nami hummed in thought. "Asia Argento... I've never heard of her. What's her deal?"
Rias exhaled softly, shifting slightly in the embrace. "She's a former Holy Maiden—an excommunicated nun from the Church. She possesses a Sacred Gear called Twilight Healing, which allows her to heal any wound, even for Devils."
Nami blinked, surprised. "I see, so how is she like as a person?"
"Well, firstly, she is pure, really, pure and innocent, even when she turned into a devil, nothing seemed to change about that side of her. While it's cute and all, her innocence was also her down side, she was too easy to be manipulated and controlled, nervous, and really naive" Rias answers concernedly
Nami sighed, rubbing her temples. "Great. Just what we need—an adorable, overly trusting angel in devil's clothing. Sounds like she'd get eaten alive if we're not careful."
Rias nodded. "Exactly. That's why I have to make sure she's well protected and learns how to stand on her own. She's too kind for this world, let alone the supernatural one."
Nami asks. "So, where is she living now?"
Rias hesitates for a moment before she answers "She...is...living...with...Is...sei" words were butchered when coming out of her mouth.
"What!?" Nami snaps as she turns back to Rias "Rias, why didn't you tell her to live here with us? Why did you let that pure soul live in the same house with Issei Hyoudou of all people?"
Rias shakes her head "I did offer her, but she said she wanted to live with Issei, so I had no other choice"
Nami sighs "It seems you were not convincing enough, don't worry, let your big sister Nami take care of this, I'll convince Asia to come live here like how I convinced all those executives to trust my plan.
Her voice get even more serious "I'll even pay her to live here with us where she will have better environment to train, to learn, and good role models to look up to to grow out of her naivety and nervousness to be a woman who can handle this world"
Rias giggles "You really hate Issei, don't you?" Nami's eyes widened "Don't get me even started with him, Rias. Do you know why I never take a shower at school? Well thank him, because he and his perverted pals took sneaky pictures of me when I was showering."
Rias was at a loss of word "Hey and don't even think I don't remember how he usually ogle at us when we're changing for sport games, how he ditched class to peeking at us in swimming class, and how hard he fought against the increment in the length of female students' skirts in the uniform"
Rias groaned, rubbing her temples. "Ugh... You're right. I won't even try to defend him on that. He really is hopeless when it comes to his perversion."
Nami crossed her arms, her irritation still evident. "Hopeless is an understatement. That boy is a menace. And now you're telling me that a pure-hearted girl like Asia is living under the same roof as him? Oh no, that's not happening. I'm dragging her out of there myself if I have to."
Rias sighed. "Look, I get it. I wasn't thrilled about it either, but Asia trusts him. She sees him as her savior."
Nami scoffed. "Yeah, because she doesn't know any better. She's too naive to see how much of a walking disaster he is. That's exactly why she shouldn't be staying there! What happens when she catches him sneaking a peek at her in the shower? Or worse—when he accidentally walks in and acts like it was fate?"
Rias pinched the bridge of her nose. "You really have it out for him, huh?"
Nami huffed. "Oh, I wonder why. Maybe it's because he spent all of high school treating girls like walking gravure magazines. Maybe it's because he has zero self-control and no sense of shame. Or maybe—just maybe—it's because I actually care about the dignity and well-being of the girls around me!"
Rias chuckled, amused by Nami's passionate rant. "Alright, alright. I get it. But how exactly do you plan to convince Asia to move in with us?"
Nami smirked. "Simple. I'll use logic, reason, and if necessary... bribery. I'll make her an offer she can't refuse."
Rias raised an eyebrow. "You sound like you're about to negotiate a high-stakes business deal."
Nami grinned. "Rias, everything in life is a negotiation. And trust me—I never lose. But for now, let us enjoy our sisterly moment" she wraps her arms around Rias again as the redhead smiles and returns the hug as they shower together.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Rias drying Nami's hair)
Nami dried herself off quickly, wrapped a towel around her body, and grabbed her phone. She scrolled through her contacts until she found Asia's number and pressed call.
After a few rings, Asia's gentle voice came through. "Hello? Nami-san?"
"Asia, sweetie! How are you?" Nami said in the warmest voice she could manage, already switching to negotiation mode.
"Oh, um, I'm doing well! Thank you for asking." Asia sounded cheerful but slightly nervous, as always.
Nami smiled, keeping her tone light. "That's great to hear. Listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important. I heard from Rias that you chose to stay with Issei, but I have a much better offer for you."
Asia hesitated. "A... better offer?"
"Yes! I want you to come live with us at the estate. We have plenty of space, excellent facilities for training, and a safe, comfortable environment. Plus, you'd be surrounded by experienced people who can help you grow as a Devil and teach you how to handle this new life properly."
Asia was silent for a moment before responding. "But... I don't want to be a burden. Issei-kun has been so kind to me, and I don't want to leave him alone..."
Nami resisted the urge to groan. Of course, she feels indebted to him.
"Asia, sweetheart," Nami said gently but firmly. "No one is saying you're a burden. In fact, we want you here. Living with us isn't just about training—it's about making sure you're in the best possible environment for your future. And let's be honest... do you really think living with Issei is what's best for you?"
Asia hesitated again. "...I don't know."
Nami decided to play her trump card. "How about this—I'll pay you to move in with us. You'll receive a generous monthly allowance, along with access to resources that can help you become stronger, more confident, and more independent. Doesn't that sound like a good deal?"
Asia gasped. "Y-You would pay me? Just to live with you?"
"Of course," Nami confirmed. "Think of it as a scholarship of sorts. We invest in you, and in return, you become the best version of yourself. No pressure, no strings attached—just an opportunity to grow in a place where you'll be safe and cared for. Rias said she saw you as a little sister, so you are my little sister as well, and as the big sis, it's my responsibility to take care of my younger sisters, including you, Asia"
Asia seemed overwhelmed by the offer. "...I-I need to think about it."
Nami smiled, knowing she was close to sealing the deal. "Take your time, sweetie. But don't take too long—great opportunities don't wait forever."
When the call ends, Nami feels herself being wrapped again into an embrace "How's everything going, sis? Can we expect her to be here by the weekend?" Rias purrs into Nami's ears.
Nami sighs "She is still hesitating, trying to be polite and somewhat grateful to her savior and his family, but by the end of your Rating Game, we'll know the answer. But she is swaying slightly, I could hear that in her voice when I talked to her."
Rias smiled softly, resting her chin on Nami's shoulder. "Good, at least she's considering it. You really know how to put the pressure on someone, huh?"
Nami chuckled lightly, shrugging her shoulders. "It's all about the offer, Rias. I made sure to appeal to both her sense of gratitude and her potential. But, it's not just about what she needs now—it's about what she'll need in the future. Living with us would give her the stability and guidance she can't get by staying with Issei, and I think she knows that deep down."
Rias pulled back slightly to look at Nami, her eyes twinkling. "And if she doesn't agree... what then?"
Nami smirked. "Then I'll just have to convince her again, and maybe offer her even more incentive. Asia may be pure, but she's not dumb...I hope. She'll see the benefits of living with us soon enough."
Rias nodded, her determination growing. "You're right. If she sees us in action—sees what we can accomplish together—she'll understand."
Nami smirked. "Exactly. Now, let's get downstairs, I can smell dinner is ready" Nami stands up and walks out of the door "Are you seriously going to eat dinner in that?" Rias giggles as she points at Nami who still has her towel on.
"What?" Nami tilts her head "I can eat naked if you want, it's only us women in this mansion tonight, Arto hasn't come home yet"
Rias rolled her eyes, chuckling. "You have no shame, do you?" Nami smirked as she walked down the hall. "Nope. And I don't see why I should."
Rias sighed in amusement but followed her nonetheless. "At least put on something before Grayfia scolds you."
"Ugh, fine," Nami huffed. She casually grabbed a robe from the side and slipped it on as they descended the staircase.
As Nami and Rias stepped into the room, the scene before them was both amusing and chaotic.
Grayfia, ever the composed maid, sipped her tea gracefully while Erza, clad in casual attire for once, was deep in conversation with her. Meanwhile, Koneko sat quietly, munching on a sweet treat with her usual deadpan expression.
Across from them, Robin was gently patting Albedo's head, murmuring soothing words as the normally composed Overseer trembled slightly with impatience. Her golden eyes flickered with frustration. "Three weeks... Three weeks and my beloved Arto still hasn't returned..." she muttered.
Nami chuckled as she leaned against the doorway. "Albedo, if I didn't know better, I'd say you're ready to tear Vigrid apart just to drag Arto home yourself."
Albedo snapped her head toward Nami, her expression softening just slightly. "Don't tempt me. If I had it my way, I'd never let him leave for so long again..."
Meanwhile, Akeno was giggling as she playfully tugged on Kuroka's ears. "Come on, say it, Kuroka~ You know you love it here."
Kuroka swatted Akeno's hand away, pouting. "Nyaa~ Stop that! I already admitted I like it here, alright? But you don't have to keep teasing me about it."
Nami smirked at the lively energy in the room and took a seat next to Grayfia. "It seems like everyone's getting restless. Arto really needs to hurry back before we have a full-scale crisis."
Grayfia set down her cup and nodded. "Indeed. The longer he stays away, the more... unstable certain individuals become." Her eyes flickered toward Albedo for a brief moment.
Nami laughed. "Well, dinner's almost ready. Let's hope food can keep everyone distracted until he arrives."
Rias sighed and took a seat as well. "For all our strength and intelligence, it's hilarious how we all fall apart when Arto's away for too long."
Akeno giggled. "That's what love does to you, Rias~"
The women move to the table for dinner, as they are eating, Nami turns to Grayfia "Grayfia, can you prepare a room for Rias' new Bishop, Asia? She might come to live with us soon"
Grayfia set down her utensils and gave Nami a small nod. "Of course. I will have the room prepared by tomorrow. Should I assume she will require a more modest arrangement, considering her...background?"
Nami smirked. "Yeah, keep it simple and cozy. She's still adjusting to being a Devil, and I don't want to overwhelm her. But make sure it's close to Rias' room—she'll need guidance."
Rias nodded in agreement, swallowing a bite of her food. "That's a good idea. Asia is still a bit timid, and staying close to me should help her feel more at ease."
Robin, ever the insightful one, tilted her head. "Are you sure she'll agree? She still seems quite attached to Issei's household."
Nami tapped her fork against her plate, a knowing smile on her lips. "She's hesitating, but she's already thinking about it. She just needs a little...push."
Koneko, quietly munching on her rice, spoke up in her usual deadpan tone. "Bribery?"
Nami chuckled. "Persuasion. I'll make her see that living here is the best option for her future. Issei's house isn't exactly the ideal place for a girl like her. Especially not with his... tendencies."
Albedo scoffed, crossing her arms. "Frankly, it is an insult to our household that such a fragile, valuable piece is left in the hands of that pervert."
Akeno giggled. "Ara~ Albedo, you almost sound jealous. Are you afraid Arto might take an interest in Asia?"
Albedo shot her a glare. "Don't be ridiculous. Our lord has no interest in helpless, naive girls. He desires women of strength and intellect."
Robin nods "Indeed, Asia won't be in this harem, because she is first and foremost not Arto's type."
Albedo agrees "Our man never likes innocent, pure and kind women, especially those who are too kind for their own good and too clueless to navigate their own place in the situation."
Nami swallows her piece of steak "Our man likes the kind of woman who is strong, smart and independent, like us. All in all, he likes sly wolves that know what to do, not innocent rabbits that wander cluelessly"
Kuroka purred playfully, flicking her tail. "Nyaa~ So we're all wolves in his pack, huh?"
Akeno chuckled, resting her chin on her hand. "Well, it's true. Arto is a wolf both literally and figuratively himself and to be in his pack, you've got to have something special. Strength, intelligence, and the ability to play the game."
Erza nodded in agreement. "It's not just about strength alone—it's about knowing how to wield it. Arto doesn't just want powerful women; he wants those who can stand beside him as equals, who can take control when needed and hold their own in any situation."
Grayfia took a sip of her tea, her expression calm as always. "That is precisely why this household thrives. We are not merely his lovers—we are his partners, his allies. Each of us brings something unique to the table, and together, we form an unshakable foundation."
Nami smirked, resting her elbow on the table. "Exactly. And that's why Asia, as sweet as she is, just doesn't fit the mold. She needs protection, guidance... She's not the type to run alongside us. At least, not yet."
Rias sighed. "Still, she has potential. I wouldn't have reincarnated her if I didn't see something in her."
Robin gave a thoughtful nod. "Potential can be nurtured. But whether she'll ever reach the level of a 'wolf'... that remains to be seen."
Kuroka stretched lazily. "Nyaa~ Well, let's not stress over it too much. If she comes, she comes. If not, well... she'll have to fend for herself in that den of perverts."
Akeno giggled. "Poor girl... I almost feel bad for her."
Nami grinned. "That's why we'll make sure she makes the right decision."
The topic of dinner is changed to Venelana's visit on the weekend "She is coming for you, Nami, have you prepared everything? Your work should be impressive enough to make her go easy on you, and the reason for your 3 weeks absence should be reasonable as well, Arto could only ease her so much" Rias teases
Nami sighed dramatically, leaning back in her chair. "Oh please, Rias, do you think I haven't prepared for this interrogation—I mean, visit?" She smirked, picking up her glass. "Mom might be a formidable woman, but I'm not exactly inexperienced in handling her. Besides, I have a secret weapon."
Grayfia raised an eyebrow. "And what might that be?"
Nami grinned. "Arto, of course. He's her beloved son-in-law, her favorite future son-in-law, and the only one she dotes on. If anyone can soften her up, it's him."
Albedo scoffed. "You're placing a lot of faith in Master Arto's ability to 'soften' Venelana. She may love him, but she is still a Gremory woman. She will not be so easily swayed from whatever punishment she has in mind for you."
Robin chuckled. "Albedo's right. Venelana is known for her discipline. She ran the entire Gremory household's diplomatic side efficiently for years; she's not going to let Nami off just because Arto sweet-talks her."
Rias smirked. "Exactly. You should probably start rehearsing your explanations, sister. Three weeks in another world without properly informing her? She's going to want every detail, and you know how she gets when she feels out of the loop."
Nami groaned, rubbing her temples. "Ugh, I know, I know. I'm not stupid, Rias. I have all the financial reports prepared to prove Abyga didn't crumble in my absence. Mom likes efficiency, and I made sure everything ran smoothly while I was away."
Grayfia nodded approvingly. "That should at least earn you some points. However, Venelana will not just be looking at your professional achievements. She will want a personal explanation as well."
Kuroka giggled. "Nyaa~ And the reason of going off for research INA wouldn't be persuasive enough to make her less angry, it's you fault for not minding the time difference between worlds, after all"
Nami groaned again, slumping forward onto the table. "Ugh, don't remind me. I swear, I only meant to be gone for a few days. Who knew the time dilation would mess things up so badly?"
Akeno smirked, sipping her tea. "Oh, we all knew, Nami. You just didn't look at the time-dilation function switch in Sector 80, which was obviously on."
Albedo crossed her arms. "A fatal oversight, considering you were dealing with an entirely different world's time flow. Venelana will not overlook that."
Nami sat up, pointing a finger at Albedo. "Okay, I get it. I messed up. But I still accomplished what I set out to do, and that should count for something, right?"
Robin chuckled. "It will... after she's finished making you feel guilty about it first."
Rias leaned in, resting her chin on her hands. "You know how Mom is. She'll start with the cold stare, then the disappointed sigh, and then the quiet, calculated lecture that makes you regret every decision you've ever made."
Nami shuddered. "Ugh, I hate the quiet lectures. I'd rather she just yell at me and get it over with."
Kuroka purred mischievously. "Nyaa~ Maybe you should just let Arto handle her completely. Give her some time with him before she talks to you. If he plays it right, she might be in too good a mood to be too hard on you."
Nami tapped her fingers against the table. "That... actually isn't a bad idea. Arto has a way with her. If I time it right, I can let him charm her first, then slip in after when she's less on edge."
Grayfia sighed, shaking her head. "Relying on Master Arto too much will only work to an extent. Venelana is no fool. She will see through any attempt to manipulate the situation."
Nami smirked. "Oh, I know. That's why I'll be honest... mostly. I'll tell her exactly what I did, why I did it, and how I made sure everything remained stable despite my absence. She'll be upset, but she'll also see the results of my work."
Rias sighed. "Well, good luck with that. You'll need it." Nami lifted her glass. "To survive Mom's wrath!"
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Nami rehearsing before an image of Venelana)
After 2 days, when the gate of the mansion was opened, Nami couldn't be happier when she sees Venelana comes walking next to Arto, her face was brimming with joy while Arto was walking next to her, carrying a lot of bags, and they are talking happily
"I love you so muuuuchhhh, my Arto~" Nami squeals when looking out from inside "It seems he met her on his way home from the airport and he took her on a shopping trip, her favorite son-in-law treating her with her favorite activity. Intended or not, Arto just got me the best start I can get" Nami talks to herself
Grayfia, standing beside Nami, let out a small amused sigh. "It appears Lord Arto has once again managed to charm his way into Venelana's good graces before she even steps inside."
Rias crossed her arms with a smirk. "Well, that means you have a little breathing room, Nami. But don't get too comfortable—Mom is still going to want answers."
Nami took a deep breath, straightening her posture. "I know, I know. But look at her—she's glowing. Arto really knows how to work his magic."
Albedo chuckled. "It's a talent, indeed. He disarms even the most formidable of women with ease. It's no wonder we all fell for him."
As Venelana and Arto reached the entrance, Venelana's eyes immediately found Nami. Her warm smile remained, but there was a knowing glint in her gaze—one that sent a small shiver down Nami's spine.
"Ah, my dear daughter," Venelana greeted, stepping forward gracefully. "I trust you've been well?"
Nami put on her best charming smile. "Of course, Mother! Everything has been running perfectly. And might I say, you look stunning as always."
Venelana chuckled. "Flattery already? You must be nervous."
Arto set down the bags with a smirk. "Don't be too hard on her, Lady Venelana. I'm sure Nami has been very responsible... mostly."
Nami shot him a look. "Traitor."
Venelana's soft laugh filled the entrance. "Well, let's not keep everyone standing around. I expect a full update on everything soon, Nami."
Arto chimes in "I'll go put away the goods, mother, please enjoy yourself, I'll be there with you shortly"
"Take your time, Arto, you've just returned home, after all, still, come join me as soon as possible" She talks sweetly, Arto nods and goes forward to store the goods away while Nami leads Venelana to the sofa.
Grayfia quickly acts as she brings them Venelana's favorite tea and snack "Here is your tea, my lady." When the cup is settled down, the fragrance of the perfect brewed tea makes Venelana's sharp eyes soften.
Kuroka turns into a cat and jumps onto her lap to comfort her, Venelana's hand unconsciously rubs Kuroka's head, then chin then back, clearly in comfort.
Suddenly, Rias comes out from nowhere to hug Venelana from behind, rubbing her face against her mother's "Mother, I miss you so much"
Her smile suddenly gets warmer when Rias hugged her, lightening her mood even further, everything is set up and now it's up to Nami to survive
Venelana took a slow sip of her tea, her eyes scanning the room as if taking in the atmosphere. A small, pleased smile formed on her lips as she gently ran her fingers through Kuroka's fur while Rias continued to nuzzle against her back.
"You've all certainly prepared quite the welcome for me," she mused, her voice as graceful and composed as ever.
Nami, sitting across from her with perfect posture, offered a practiced smile. "Of course, Mother. Nothing less for the great Lady Venelana Gremory."
Venelana chuckled lightly, but the sharp glint in her eyes remained. "You always did know how to sweet-talk, my dear. But flattery won't save you."
Nami mentally braced herself, though outwardly she remained perfectly poised. "I expected nothing less. So, what would you like to hear first? The business reports? My explanation for my... extended absence?"
Venelana leaned back, gracefully sipping her tea. "Oh, I've already seen the business reports. Impressive work, as expected. The reaction from Sitri clan was good, they were satisfied with your plan and approach on dealing with their debts—though I would expect nothing less from my daughter."
Nami smirked, pleased but unsurprised that her mother had already done her research. "Then I suppose that leaves my absence."
Venelana placed her cup down delicately before fixing Nami with a look that could pierce through steel. "Indeed. Three weeks, Nami. Without proper notice. Time dilation or not, you should have been more mindful. Do you have any idea how many questions I had to answer on your behalf?"
Nami kept her composure, though inwardly she sighed. "I take full responsibility for that, Mother. The research project was more time-consuming than anticipated, and I should have accounted for the difference in time flow between dimensions. That was my mistake, and I won't let it happen again."
Venelana raised an eyebrow. "Good. And?"
Nami hesitated for only a fraction of a second before continuing. "And... I should have informed you directly instead of relying on Arto to smooth things over. I understand that now."
Venelana nodded approvingly. "Better. You're learning."
Rias, still clinging to her mother, giggled. "See, Mom? Nami knows how to handle herself. She's a Gremory through and through."
Venelana sighed, though there was warmth behind her eyes. "Oh, I never doubted that. But even the most brilliant minds need to be reminded of proper etiquette now and then."
Kuroka purred contentedly in Venelana's lap, as if sensing the tension beginning to ease.
Nami smirked, sensing her chance. "Then perhaps I should make it up to you, Mother. A personal spa day? Or perhaps an exclusive shopping trip with my resources at your disposal?"
Venelana's lips curled into an amused smile. "You certainly know how to appeal to me, don't you?"
Nami placed a hand over her heart in mock sincerity. "Only because I love you so much, Mother."
Venelana let out a soft laugh. "Very well. I'll consider your debt partially repaid with a mother-daughter outing. But don't think this means you're entirely off the hook."
Nami grinned. "Wouldn't dream of it."
Grayfia, standing nearby, nodded approvingly as she refilled Venelana's tea. "That went smoother than expected."
Akeno, who had just entered the room, smirked. "Nami always has a way with words. I knew she'd survive."
Albedo crossed her arms. "Barely."
As the tension in the room fully melted away, Venelana shook her head in amusement. "You are all quite the handful. No wonder Arto has his hands full."
Rias giggled. "And he wouldn't have it any other way."
Nami sighed in relief, knowing she had narrowly avoided a much harsher lecture. But more importantly, she had maintained her place in her mother's good graces. Now, all she had to do was survive the rest of the visit.
Arto comes downstairs with Albedo clinging closely to his arm "What did I miss?"
Venelana turned toward Arto with a knowing smile. "Oh, nothing much, dear. Just a little mother-daughter conversation about responsibility and proper etiquette."
Arto smirked, glancing at Nami. "And she survived? Impressive."
Nami scoffed playfully. "Oh, please. Have some faith in me."
Albedo, still clinging to Arto's arm, narrowed her eyes slightly. "Barely. If you hadn't softened her up with that shopping trip, things might have gone differently."
Venelana chuckled, taking another sip of her tea. "I must admit, Arto, you have a talent for knowing exactly how to win people over."
Arto shrugged with an easygoing grin. "I just enjoy making the women in my life happy."
Rias rolled her eyes. "And somehow, that works every time."
Venelana patted Kuroka's head absentmindedly. "Well, now that we have that matter settled, I'd like to hear more about what you've been up to, Arto. It's been a while since we've had the chance to talk properly."
Arto nodded. "Of course. How about over dinner? I'm sure you have a lot of questions."
Venelana smiled warmly. "That sounds perfect."
With that, the group made their way to the dining area, the atmosphere much lighter than before. Nami exhaled quietly, knowing she had just dodged a bullet—and the meeting from here would be about something else
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Nami hugging an Arto plushie)
Venelana sits at the head of the dining table as the family enjoys their meal, she turns to Arto, who is eating with one hand because the other was took hold by Albedo, she giggles and asks "Arto dear, now that you've returned home, what is you plan from this point? Should I expect some new innovation anytime soon?"
Arto puts down his fork and cleans his face before answering "I'm prioritizing getting back to my normal life and catching up to what I've missed when I was gone to Vigrid, I'll go back to school like normal from next week."
Venelana nods as he continues "About innovations, everything was handled well when I was gone, but I am not in the right position to tell you about it, my lovers would be better choices because they were the ones who did the work directly" He looks at Nami "And we can start by Robin and Nami's field test regarding INA's ability in finding worlds based on one's magical signature, the very thing that cause Nami to abandon her work in Abyga"
Nami cleared her throat, setting down her utensils as she leaned slightly forward. "That's right. The research into INA's ability to locate specific worlds based on magical signatures was the primary reason for my extended absence. It was a promising theory, and now we have confirmation that it works."
Robin nodded, adjusting her glasses. "By analyzing and fine-tuning the resonance between dimensional signatures, we were able to pinpoint a world connected to our magical trace. That's how we located the world we went to. The process is still in its early stages, but if refined, it could revolutionize travel between worlds—especially for individuals looking to track specific people or objects across dimensions."
Venelana raised an intrigued eyebrow. "That does sound impressive. And how reliable is this method? Is there a risk of false leads or instability?"
Nami smirked. "Right now, there's about a 10% margin of error, but that's because we're still refining the calibration. Once we've fine-tuned it, we expect to bring it down to less than 1%."
Venelana tapped her fingers against the table thoughtfully. "That is quite the leap forward in dimensional navigation. I can see why you were so invested in it."
Arto smiled. "And once the method is perfected, it will open up countless possibilities. Finding lost civilizations, reuniting people across worlds, even securing lost technology or artifacts that were thought to be beyond reach."
Grayfia, who had been listening silently, spoke up. "It also presents new security concerns. If travel can be made this precise, enemies could exploit it just as easily."
Robin nodded. "That's why we've been taking precautions. The research is being kept under strict confidentiality, and we've implemented security measures to prevent unauthorized use."
Venelana chuckled. "Ever the careful planners, I see. This could be a game-changer, indeed."
She turned her gaze back to Nami. "Though, I must ask—was it worth three weeks away from your responsibilities?"
Nami held her mother's gaze and smirked confidently. "Without a doubt."
Venelana studied her for a moment before a small smile appeared. "Good. Then I look forward to seeing the results firsthand."
Arto glanced around the table. "And that's just the beginning. Let's talk about what others did, Rias, Akeno, how is the preparation for the Rating Game against Riser?"
Rias set down her glass and took a deep breath. "We've been training hard, even though this is 4 of us vs 16 of them, I can still be confident that we can win, and not just any win, dominating win. I've run countless simulations in the simulation room to prepare for all the situation that could happen in the Rating Game, so you can be assure that we are all prepared to win"
She then looks at Koneko who is eating her meal "Koneko has been training really well with Kuroka, refining her Senjutsu further. Kiba and Erza in fact are still sparring in the simulation room, they will be here shortly. And finally, Akeno and I have been training everyday in the Training Ground sector with monster strengthened after each defeat"
Nami tilts her head " That's very good to hear, but 4 vs 16? I thought you had 2 more members, Issei and Asia. Aren't you going to take them along?"
Rias nods "They will be there with me of course, but just to learn, I don't expect them to contribute directly to the battle, they are new here, after all. So the whole tactic only resolves around me, Akeno, Kiba and Koneko, Riser can brag all he likes about his sheer number, but about the quality of each piece, my peerage is far ahead if not mentioning Asia and Issei"
Arto leaned back slightly, his sharp eyes scanning Rias with interest. "A dominating win, huh? That's a strong claim, especially against someone like Riser, who relies on overwhelming numbers and endurance tactics."
Rias smirked confidently. "I don't make claims I can't back up, Arto. His strategy is predictable—he believes numbers and regeneration are enough to carry him to victory. But that just makes him easier to counter. We've prepared specifically to dismantle his tactics."
Akeno nodded, her usual playful smile replaced with a more serious expression. "We've refined multiple strategies, and each one exploits a different weakness in his peerage. He relies on his Queen and his sister the most—if we take them out early, the rest will crumble."
Arto tapped his fingers on the table, considering. "And what about Riser himself? He won't go down easily, and even if you take out his pieces, he still has that damnable immortality from his Phoenix blood."
Rias nodded in agreement. "There is a thing about the Rating Game arena, if the damage was too much on an individual, they will be forced to leave the arena immediately, that's why I'm going to use, fast and blowing damage that gives them no time to regenerate"
Rias then summons a sniper rifle made out of her own Power of Destruction, the thing is brimming with power and destruction "This should do the trick if they linger back too much" she smirks.
Nami chuckled. "I like this confidence, Rias. But do you have a plan if something unexpected happens?"
Robin adjusted her glasses. "I'd also like to know that. You've prepared for every known scenario, but you can't assume Riser will fight the way you expect."
Akeno smirked, her eyes gleaming. "Oh, don't worry. We've planned for surprises, too. That's why we've been training with unpredictable enemies in the Training Ground sector. If Riser or his peerage try anything unexpected, we'll adapt."
Arto nodded approvingly. "Good. That's the kind of mentality you need. Confidence is important, but adaptability is what wins battles."
Venelana, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke. "It's clear you've all put serious effort into this. Rias, I trust you understand what's truly at stake here?"
Rias's expression grew more serious. "Of course, Mother. This isn't just about proving myself—it's about ensuring my future is mine to decide."
Venelana's gaze softened slightly. "Then make sure you win. A Gremory does not lose when it matters most."
Rias's eyes burned with determination. "I won't."
Arto smirked. "Well then, I guess I better prepare to celebrate your victory. And Rias, this is for our future together, so you'd better give your all to win this battle, so that I can finally call you my fiancee"
As they were talking, Erza and Kiba came up from the basement "You are having dinner already, why didn't you wait for us?"
Nami smirked, resting her chin on her hand. "Well, you two were too busy trying to kill each other in the simulation room. We figured if we waited, we'd all starve."
Kiba chuckled, running a hand through his slightly damp hair. "Fair enough. That last fight took longer than expected."
Erza crossed her arms, her crimson hair still slightly messy from battle. "Kiba's speed is improving. I had to take him more seriously this time."
Kiba smirked. "That's the best compliment I've had all week."
Akeno giggled. "You two can keep flattering each other later. For now, sit down and eat before the food gets cold."
Grayfia, ever the diligent maid, was already setting fresh plates for the two warriors. Erza and Kiba wasted no time taking their seats.
As Erza took her first bite, she glanced at Rias. "So, what did we miss?"
Rias leaned back with a smirk. "Just finalizing our strategy for the Rating Game. We were talking about how we're going to crush Riser and make sure he never forgets it."
Kiba grinned. "Good. I'd rather not lose to someone who calls himself a 'superior noble' just because of bloodline privilege."
Erza nodded firmly. "You'd better, because if you lose, you'll have a bigger problem waiting for you here in this mansion" she said with her fiery eyes, making Kiba shiver.
Arto chuckled at Kiba's reaction. "Looks like your motivation just got stronger."
Kiba sighed dramatically but smirked. "I was already planning on giving it my all, but now that my well-being depends on it, I suppose I'll have to make sure we dominate."
Erza nodded approvingly, taking another bite of her meal. "Good. Because if you don't, I'll be the one training you until you can."
Rias smiled at the banter but quickly turned serious. "But in all seriousness, we're ready. We know our strengths, we know Riser's weaknesses, and we know exactly how to exploit them."
Arto rested his elbow on the table, his golden eyes sharp. "Confidence is good, but remember—overconfidence can be deadly. Riser's not smart, but he's not stupid either. If he knows he's outmatched, he might resort to tricks or outside interference."
Akeno smiled, her usual teasing tone laced with something more dangerous. "That's why we're prepared for any underhanded tactics. If Riser wants to play dirty, we'll remind him that we're more than capable of playing that game too."
Venelana sipped her tea with a pleased expression. "I must say, I'm impressed with how thoroughly you've planned for this. Rias, you're proving yourself to be a true leader."
Rias's cheeks tinted slightly, but she maintained her composed demeanor. "Thank you, Mother. I won't let you down."
Kuroka purred from her spot, curled up lazily on the couch. "Nyaa~ With all this talk, I almost feel bad for Riser. Almost."
Erza smirked. "Don't. He deserves what's coming to him."
Arto leaned back, nodding. "Then all that's left is execution. Make sure you crush him so thoroughly he doesn't even think about challenging you again."
Rias smirked. "Oh, trust me. That's the plan."
Notes:
A/N: We're right at the beginning of the Rating Game
Chapter 36: The Rating Game
Summary:
Riser and Rias' Rating Game
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Arto stands at the entrance of his mansion with Rias in her battling attire
"Today is the day, love~" he kisses her forehead, she happily leans into the kiss "Come watch I claim my freedom, alright?"
"Wouldn't miss it for the world" His voice softener "Go, I'll be right behind you" Rias leans in for a long, lingering kiss.
At another corner, Baraqiel is looking at Akeno "Have you got everything prepared?" He said proudly, Akeno nods as she pulls out her lightning naginata
"I'm more than ready, father, thank you for training me all this time, can you come to see my performance?"
Baraqiel smiles "I'll be watching, but not explicitly, my dear, just know that I will always look after you"
Akeno's smile softened, her usual playful demeanor replaced by something more sincere. "That's more than enough, Father," she said, gripping her naginata a little tighter.
Baraqiel reached out, placing a hand on her head gently. "Make me proud, Akeno. Not just as my daughter, but as the warrior I know you've become."
Akeno closed her eyes for a brief moment, savoring the rare moment of warmth between them before stepping back. "I will," she promised.
Kuroka stood behind Koneko, gently adjusting her younger sister's battle attire with a smirk. "Let's see, nya~ You've been training hard, but today is where you prove yourself for real," she purred, her golden eyes gleaming with excitement.
Koneko remained silent, her expression as stoic as ever, but her tail flicked slightly—a small tell that she was listening closely.
Kuroka placed her hands on Koneko's shoulders, leaning in slightly. "I know you don't like relying on your full strength, but against these guys, you'll need it. Don't hold back, Shirone. Show them what a real Nekoshou can do."
Koneko exhaled quietly, her small fists clenching. "I know," she murmured.
Kuroka grinned. "Good~ I'll be watching, so don't disappoint me, nya~"
Koneko shot her a small glare but didn't shake off her sister's hands. Instead, she simply nodded. "I won't."
With that, she turned toward the teleportation circle, stepping in alongside her teammates. Kuroka watched her go, her tail swaying lazily.
"Crush 'em, my little sister," she whispered as Koneko vanished in a flash of light.
"Hey, bring this along as well" Erza shouts from inside the mansion "Again, there is absolutely no need, Erza, I have enough fire resisting items and spells"
Kiba tries to resist Erza pushing another fire immune armor "This one is better, so put it on before I pin it onto your torso"
Kiba sighed, rubbing his temples. "Erza, I appreciate it, really, but I already have my own countermeasures against fire."
Erza crossed her arms, her sharp eyes narrowing. "Not good enough. Riser is a Phoenix, Kiba. His flames aren't just hot—they burn with regeneration in mind. The last thing we need is you underestimating how much heat you'll be dealing with."
Kiba chuckled nervously as she stepped closer, the imposing aura of the Titania making him take a step back. "I swear, I have gear prepared—"
"Not as good as this one," Erza cut him off, holding up a sleek, enchanted fire-resistant armor. "I modified it myself. Unless you want me to forcibly equip it on you, I suggest you take it."
Kiba sighed in defeat, shaking his head with a small smile. "Alright, alright, I'll wear it. No need for threats."
Erza smirked. "Good choice." She tossed him the armor, and he caught it, already feeling the weight of her craftsmanship.
Akeno giggled from the side. "You should know by now, Kiba, that arguing with Erza is a lost cause."
Kiba gave a mock-exhausted look. "Yeah, yeah, I'm learning that the hard way."
Erza simply huffed. "Better safe than sorry. Now put it on and get ready."
Kiba groans internally as he activates an equipping spell as the armor is automatically donned on his body, outside of his normal battling attire, the armor turns invisible before everyone's eyes.
"I must say, you never stop surprising me with your craftsmanship, Erza" Arto says as he comes to examine Kiba's armor "Light, tough, and thoroughly immune to fire. Impressive"
Erza puffs her chest proudly "Of course, I learnt from the best, I've read all craftsmanship books of yours, and I must say, the craftsmen of Abyssgard legion are really something else"
Arto chuckled, clearly pleased. "Well, they are the best for a reason. Their techniques have been refined over centuries of warfare and innovation. But seeing you apply what you've learned so well, Erza... that's just as impressive."
Erza smirked, crossing her arms. "Of course. If I'm going to craft something, I'll make sure it's the best. No half-measures."
Kiba flexed his arms slightly, testing the feel of the armor. "I'll admit, I can barely tell I'm wearing it. It doesn't restrict my movements at all."
"That's the point," Erza said proudly. "Protection without sacrificing mobility. If you're going to keep up with someone as burning as Riser's Queen, you'll need every advantage you can get."
Erza pulls out more armors like Kiba's one and hands it to each of them "Koneko, Akeno and Rias, here you go. Sorry I didn't make ones for Issei and Asia, they were new so I didn't have their measurements"
Rias waves her hand "There is no need, they are there to spectate, not to carry, but still, I've already got some measures to make sure they are safe.
Erza nodded, satisfied. "Good. I'd rather not have any unexpected problems."
Koneko took the armor without a word, examining it closely before putting it on. Akeno, meanwhile, smiled as she slipped into hers. "Ara~ Erza, you've really outdone yourself. It's almost weightless."
Erza smirked. "Of course. Heavy armor might work for me, but you all rely on speed and agility. I made sure it wouldn't slow you down."
Rias ran her fingers over the material before activating a simple enchantment, making the armor blend seamlessly with her outfit. "Perfect. This should give us even more of an edge."
Akeno comes to her King "President, it's time to go, Issei and Asia are waiting at the clubhouse" Rias took one last deep breath, adjusting her gloves before nodding at Akeno. "Right. Let's not keep them waiting."
Arto gently squeezed Rias' hand. "You've got this. Go teach that chicken a lesson" Rias smiled at him, warmth flickering in her eyes before she turned toward the mansion gates. "Let's go."
Akeno walked beside her, the usual playful glint in her eyes replaced with focused determination. Behind them, Kiba adjusted his sword at his hip, and Koneko silently flexed her fingers, her aura steady and controlled.
As they stepped into the teleport circle, the air around them felt charged with anticipation as they whisk away. At the clubhouse, Issei and Asia stood waiting. Issei looked nervous but excited, while Asia held her hands together, offering a silent prayer for her teammates.
Issei grinned when he saw them arrive. "President! Everyone! You all look ready to wipe the floor with Riser! But how can I help you?"
Rias shakes her head "There is no need, Issei, all you need to do is look and learn from this." She places a hand on his shoulder "I know how ready you think you are, but let us handle this, alright? I know how powerful Boosted Gear is, but it would take time for you to master it, not to mention the wielders of Boosted Gear tend to grow very slow in first stages of their power development, so there is no need to pressure yourself"
Issei opened his mouth as if to argue but then sighed, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, I get it, President. I just—I want to help, you know? But I'll listen. I'll watch and learn."
Asia nodded encouragingly. "You'll have your time, Issei. For now, let's support them from the sidelines."
Rias smiled. "That's the spirit." She turned to Akeno, Kiba, and Koneko. "Let's go. The battlefield awaits."
With that, the team stepped into the teleportation circle, the air around them shimmering with power. In mere moments, they vanished from the clubhouse, reappearing in the designated battle arena.
Meanwhile
At Arto's mansion Arto comes to other ladies in his household "Well, there she goes, let us go as well, ladies" Arto snaps his fingers as gorgeous dresses appear before the ladies "Exclusively made by a friend of mine, I don't know how she got your measurement, but they are here, so let's put them on, shall we?"
The ladies exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued as they admired the dresses before them.
Kuroka purred, holding up her gown, a sleek black number with golden embroidery that shimmered like stars. "Nyaa~ So fancy! Your friend has good taste, Arto."
Robin adjusted her glasses, inspecting the fabric of her elegant deep-blue dress with a knowing smile. "Whoever she is, she certainly understands fine craftsmanship. This is exquisite."
Albedo held her dress up with a look of pure admiration. It was a regal white and gold ensemble, befitting her status. "Ara~ If this is a gift from Master Arto, then I shall wear it with pride."
Grayfia, ever the composed one, ran her fingers over the smooth silver fabric of her dress before nodding approvingly. "This is quite a surprise, but a pleasant one. I shall prepare accordingly."
Nami smirked as she held up a stunning crimson gown with intricate lacework. "Well, if we're going to watch the game, we might as well do it in style."
Erza, for once, looked unsure as she examined her dress—a striking scarlet piece that matched her hair perfectly. "I appreciate the sentiment, but... I'm more used to armor than dresses."
Arto chuckled, stepping forward to adjust Erza's hair playfully. "You wear armor beautifully, Erza, but trust me, you'll look just as stunning in this."
She huffed but relented. "Fine, but if something happens, I'm summoning my sword."
Arto grinned. "Wouldn't expect anything less."
With that, the ladies left to change, and soon after, they all emerged, each radiating beauty in their specially tailored gowns.
Arto smiled as he took in the sight. "Absolutely breathtaking. Now, shall we?"
With a flick of his wrist, a portal opened before them, leading to their private VIP viewing box in the Rating Game arena.
Albedo took his arm with a satisfied smirk. "Lead the way, Master Arto."
As they stepped through the portal, the group was met with the lavish sight of their private VIP booth, overlooking the battlefield. The fine wine shimmered in crystal glasses, the fresh fruits were meticulously arranged, and the plush seating promised utmost comfort.
Arto smirked as he glanced around. "Mother Venelana always ensures we have nothing but the best."
Nami looks around "Sadly she can't be with us, she and father have to watch the game elsewhere as household representatives" she flops of the couch and pat the seat "C'mon, everyone, let's enjoy ourselves while we watch Rias wipe the floor with that burnt chicken"
The ladies took their seats, each settling into the plush comfort of the booth. Kuroka immediately curled up next to Arto, draping herself over his arm with a purr. "Nyaa~ This is the best way to watch a fight. Good company, good wine, and an easy win to enjoy."
Albedo, ever composed yet eager, gracefully crossed her legs as she sipped from a delicate wine glass. "Indeed. Watching Riser struggle will be quite the entertainment."
Robin leaned back, adjusting her glasses as she took in the battlefield below. "Strategically speaking, Rias holds the advantage. Numbers won't matter if her tactics are superior. I'm curious to see how she executes her plans."
Erza, still somewhat stiff in her dress, huffed. "I hope she at least makes him suffer. He's far too arrogant for someone so mediocre."
Grayfia, standing with her arms crossed near the edge of the booth, spoke with an icy calmness. "If he dares to try anything improper, I will ensure he regrets it."
Arto chuckled at their collective confidence in Rias. "No doubt about it, Riser's about to have the worst day of his life."
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Zeoticus and Razer Phenex look at each other menacingly as at the guest seats)
The arena appears before their eyes as an imitation of Kuoh Academy, and Rias' peerage is positioned in the ORC clubhouse while Riser and his peerage is in the main building of the school. When both peerages are in their position, the commentator starts their work and the one behind the mic makes them surprised.
"Welcome to the specially held Ratings Game between Rias of the Gremory household and Riser of the Phenex household. Clearly this has been building up for more than a year as these two competitors will meet on the field of battle this very day. And this is your host of the evening, the ever lovely magical girl from hell who'll melt your heart and your head. Magical Girl Magical✰Levi-tan! Chu~"
"I can see Sona is at a word lost at this point" Akeno giggles "Indeed, she is just there to fill the seat and announce the retirement of pieces, most of the talking will be done by Serafall" Rias nods.
Kiba let out a short chuckle. "Leviathan-sama sure knows how to liven up a serious match."
Koneko, still watching the arena with sharp eyes, deadpanned, "More like she's just here to tease Sona."
Rias sighed, though there was a small smirk on her lips. "Well, whatever keeps things entertaining."
From the large screen projected in the sky, Serafall Leviathan appeared, twirling her wand with her usual boundless energy. "That's right, my lovely little devils! Today, we're witnessing an old-school rivalry brought to life in the form of a high-stakes Rating Game! Will our beloved Rias-chan claim her freedom, or will Riser-chan remind us why the Phenex clan is feared far and wide? Stay tuned, because this is going to be one heck of a fight! Chu~!"
The camera then panned to Sona Sitri, who was seated beside Serafall, rubbing her temples as if already regretting her life choices. With a tired sigh, she adjusted her glasses and spoke in her usual composed tone. "As the appointed judge of this match, I will ensure that all rules are followed, and any illegal actions will be immediately addressed."
Back in the clubhouse, Akeno covered her mouth, giggling. "I think Sona is regretting ever accepting this job."
Rias smirked. "She knew what she was getting into the moment Serafall volunteered to be the main commentator."
On the other side of the arena, Riser Phenex leaned back in his chair inside Kuoh's main building, looking completely relaxed. He smirked as he glanced at his peerage, all standing ready. "Well, well, looks like our dear Rias is taking this quite seriously. That's good. I'd hate for this to be over too quickly."
One of Riser's sisters, Ravel Phenex, huffed, crossing her arms. "Brother, don't underestimate them. There was certainly something fishy about Rias when we came to meet her last time"
Riser waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, little sister, don't be so serious. Strength doesn't matter when you're outnumbered four to sixteen. They may have trained, but we have numbers and stamina on our side." His golden eyes gleamed with arrogance. "Let's remind them why they call the Phenex clan immortal."
The screen flickered back to Serafall. "Alright, my adorable little devils, we have both teams in position! Now, let's not waste any time. On my signal... the battle begins!"
She raised her wand high, and the entire arena seemed to hold its breath.
"Three... Two... One... BEGIN!"
Rias turns to her peerage "Well, Riser is in our homeground, so a warm welcome was in order, right?" Kiba, Koneko and Akeno all nod while Issei and Asia seem to be oblivious about what Rias was trying to imply.
With a smirk, Rias turns around from them, walks forward and flexes her wrist a little to summon a slinger made out of her Destruction Power on one hand while on the other one she summons some small Destruction orbs. She twirls the slinger playfully in her hand as the door of the clubhouse was opened for its president.
Rias comes outside as she spins the slinger faster with her monstrous strength before slings the orb inside forward like a bullet towards the school's main building, where Riser and his peerage are at.
(A/N: Like this. Damn, this looks cool!)
As the orbs fly, they split themselves into shards, not one or two, but millions of bullets raining down like rain of crimson destruction, bringing a downpour of ruin to those who had the misfortune of being beneath it.
The moment Rias released the attack, the sky above Kuoh Academy was painted in a deep crimson glow. The sheer force behind the barrage caused the air to tremble, and the magical shards screeched through the sky like meteors of annihilation.
On the other side of the battlefield, inside the main school building, Riser's peerage barely had time to react.
"INCOMING!" Ravel shouted, her eyes widening in shock.
Riser shot up a column of flames but the bullets, being made of destruction itself, passed through unphased by the flames. Undaunted by the sheer volume of projectiles, all those of his Peerage stepped forth to stop. It wasn't enough. The sheer volume of the barrages peppering their starting position shattered through the magical barriers they had attempted to place within the seconds of Ravel's warning, bringing the building they were in down with them.
While all the pawns could create magical shielding of some sort... that didn't mean they could handle it all. The first to fall were the twin pairs. Ile and Nel had channeled their magic through their chainsaws letting them deflect some bullet... only failing due to the sheer volume, their bodies were torn apart painfully as they disappeared from the arena.
Ni and Li were next in the line. While they couldn't handle channeling their magic fully without promoting to Bishop, they still managed to manifest shields of mana. They lasted a very short time as the pair shielded their allies. The annihilation bullets pierced their bodies as well and they were ushered out of the arena, retired as well.
Marion and Burent also erected mana barriers alongside Shuriya to try and triple strength their own individual barriers. Mira channeled fire magic through her staff hardening it with said magical flames attempting to parry the falling arrows. Spinning as fast as her arms could manage, a few arrows were knocked away. It still wasn't enough as the four were overwhelmed with the barriers shattering from overstress.
'...eh? Eh! Phenex team! Eight Pawns, retired.' The announcement makes the whole arena fall into silence as the battle has only just begun and Riser has lost half of his peerage under one attack of Rias Gremory.
Back at the clubhouse, Rias' grin widens "Oh~Staggering already? But let me remind you of your position at the moment" she snaps her fingers.
"LORD RISER!" Yubelluna shouts to get Riser's attention. The Phenex wakes up from the shock to see the bullets which were pinned to the ground after the barrage, they are ticking like bombs. And without any warning, they all explode simultaneously
A deafening explosion erupted across the battlefield as the dormant shards of destruction detonated in unison. The shockwave rippled outward, shaking the very foundation of the arena as torrents of crimson energy surged through the air. The once-proud main school building was now nothing but a smoldering ruin, engulfed in a violent storm of destruction.
A massive shockwave tore through the battlefield as the delayed explosions ignited in a brilliant crimson storm. The sheer magnitude of destruction sent shockwaves across the entire artificial Kuoh Academy, shattering windows, ripping apart the already damaged main school building, and sending dust and flames soaring into the sky.
Riser barely had time to react. His wings flared as he tried to shield himself with a burst of his signature Phoenix flames, but even his regenerative abilities couldn't mitigate the sheer force of the detonation. He was sent hurtling through the air, crashing into a nearby wall with enough force to crater it.
Yubelluna, the "Bomb Queen," barely managed to conjure a magical barrier around herself and the remaining members of the peerage. Even so, the explosion rattled their defenses, leaving them gasping for breath.
Sona's composed voice echoed once more over the battlefield.
"Riser's team, one Knight, one Rook, one Bishop, retired."
Eight pawns... all wiped out from the first barrages. A Knight, a Rook and a Bishop were next, taken by the explosion. As the smoke cleared Riser, Yubelluna, Ravel, Karlamine, and Xuelan were all that were left along with the building which is now debris from the destructive rain.
Serafall Leviathan, acting as the primary commentator, giggled into her microphone. "Uwaaa~! Talk about a fiery start, Rias-chan really came in with a BOOM! Don't you just love a good magic girl-style opener? Sparkling~!☆"
Meanwhile, back at the ORC clubhouse, Issei was frozen in place, his eyes as wide as saucers. "W-What the hell...? That was insane! She just wiped out 11 of them in an instant!"
Akeno chuckled, bringing a hand to her lips. "Ara ara~ Rias really knows how to make an entrance, doesn't she?"
Rias, still standing outside the ORC clubhouse with a victorious smirk, she turns around to her peerage "Thank you for the compliment, but that's the end of the warm welcome, now will come to the fun part–hunting. Kiba, Koneko, Akeno, you know what to do"
3 members nod at the same time and disappear like 3 bolts of lightning, leaving only Rias, Asia and Issei back in the clubhouse. Rias takes a deep breath as she comes to the remaining 2.
"It's safe outside now, you two can go ahead and see how others work, or you can stay here for safety, this is the purpose of your presence here today, watch and learn. So feel free to go, I have something to prepare" She turns away from them as her wings appears and Rias takes to the roof of the clubhouse
Issei swallowed hard, still processing the sheer devastation Rias had just unleashed. He turned to Asia, who looked equally stunned but also relieved that things had calmed down for the moment.
"S-So, uh... we just go out there and watch?" Issei asked hesitantly.
Asia nodded, though there was a hint of concern in her eyes. "Yes, but... it's still dangerous, isn't it?"
Rias, now perched gracefully on the rooftop, overheard them and smirked. "Don't worry, Asia. You saw it, right, the number between us is almost even now, and they are busy dealing with others, so you'll be fine."
Meanwhile
Riser pants heavily when looking at what's left of his peerage, 11 are down, 5 are left. He angrily punches the ground "Damn it....DAMN IT!"
Ravel comes to him "Brother, we need to get out of here before another barrage come at our head"
But then they both sense something, they look around to see other members are nowhere to be found, Yubelluna, Karlamine and Xuelan all disappear without a trace.
Riser's face is unreadable, he can still sense his peerage, and they are at 3 corners of the arena, separated from him and Ravel
Riser gritted his teeth, his flames flickering wildly around him. "What the hell is happening?!" He clenched his fists as he scanned the battlefield. Yubelluna, Karlamine, and Xuelan had vanished without a sound, yet he could still sense their presence—scattered, distant, and isolated.
Ravel's expression was tense as she activated her own magic senses, trying to pinpoint what had happened. "It's not teleportation... It's something else," she murmured, eyes darting across the battlefield. "They were moved without resistance, meaning they either didn't even notice or had no time to react."
Riser took a deep breath, forcing himself to think despite his frustration. "This has to be Akeno or Kiba... maybe both. They're picking us off one by one."
"If this goes on, we'll be next, so we need to defeat Rias before they could regroup, or else there might be no chance left for us" Ravel says with a grimm face
Riser took a shaky breath, forcing his rage down. Ravel was right. If they didn't act now, it would be over before he could even put up a real fight. He clenched his fists, his flames roaring higher as he turned his sharp gaze toward the ORC clubhouse.
"Then we go straight for Rias," Riser growled. "If we take out the King, this match is ours, no matter how many pieces we've lost."
Ravel hesitated for a moment, glancing around the battlefield. She could still feel the scattered energy of their missing allies. Whatever had separated them was deliberate, a method to eliminate them systematically. But they didn't have time to think about that now.
"Alright," she finally agreed. "But we need to be careful. If she's confident enough to fight alone, then she's planned for this."
Riser smirked, but it lacked its usual arrogance. "Let's see how confident she is when I burn that smug look off her face."
Meanwhile
"Did you enjoy the ride Bomb Queen? I made sure to be as gentle as possible~" Akeno giggles as she summons her crackling lightning naginata and strolls playfully at Yubelluna.
Yubelluna groaned as she steadied herself, her surroundings finally coming into focus. She had been standing beside Riser just moments ago, yet now, she found herself in an unfamiliar part of the battlefield—a replica of Kuoh Academy's gymnasium, its once-pristine interior now dimly illuminated by the crackling arcs of electricity dancing in the air.
A slow, amused giggle echoed through the empty space, sending a chill down Yubelluna's spine.
"Ara ara~ I must say, separating you from your precious Lord Riser was easier than I expected," Akeno's sultry voice rang out. The Queen of the Gremory peerage stood near the gym's stage, twirling her lightning-infused naginata with a graceful flourish. Her violet eyes shimmered with mischief, though there was a dangerous glint beneath the playfulness.
Yubelluna quickly gathered herself, her mind racing. "Spatial manipulation? No... I didn't sense a teleportation spell." She narrowed her eyes. "Wait, could she be that bolt that took me away"
With a deep breath, Yubelluna raised her staff, conjuring an array of glowing violet magic circles in the air. "Hmph, I'll admit, that was a clever trick. But don't think separating me from Riser means you've won."
Akeno tilted her head, her smirk widening. "Oh, I don't think I've won. I know I have~."
Without another word, Akeno disappears like a flash of lightning. Yubelluna couldn't sense Akeno anymore. Suddenly, Yubelluna feels something as she dodges aimlessly.
Her eyes widen when she sees an incline clean cut run along the wall gymnasium as half of the place collapses.
"Ara~Good reflex"
Yubelluna's heart pounded as she landed on the gym floor, her heels skidding slightly against the polished wood. She barely had time to process what just happened—if she had reacted even a fraction of a second slower, that attack would have cut straight through her.
She gritted her teeth. This isn't normal lightning magic. This is something else.
A faint giggle echoed through the gym. Akeno was still nowhere to be seen, but her presence was everywhere—like a storm looming overhead, waiting to strike.
"You dodged that one, but can you keep it up?"
Yubelluna clenched her staff, summoning another array of magic circles around her. If Akeno thought she could toy with her like this, she was gravely mistaken.
"I won't let her control the battle."
With a sharp motion, she launched a barrage of fireballs laced with explosion magic in all directions, illuminating the gym in a brilliant violet glow. But Akeno doesn't faze, she starts dashing forward to dodge all the bombs.
She turns into a lightning flash and reappears right behind Yubelluna in an instant. The moment the Bomb Queen realized what had happened, it was already too late.
"My, my~" Akeno purred, her voice a teasing whisper against Yubelluna's ear. "You're focusing too much on offense."
Before Yubelluna could turn around, lightning surged through Akeno's palm, crackling with violent energy. She thrust her hand forward, pressing it against Yubelluna's back.
A massive surge of electricity erupted from Akeno's hand, sending a web of lightning coursing through Yubelluna's entire body. The Bomb Queen let out a strangled gasp as her limbs seized up, her vision flashing white from the overwhelming power.
"Damn it—!"
Her body convulsed as the shock overwhelmed her nervous system. She tried to retaliate, but her muscles wouldn't respond. Akeno's control over lightning was simply too precise.
Akeno looks down at the fallen Yubelluna in amusement, she takes the slow approach again as she walks towards the Queen of Riser Phenex.
"You know, I expected more from you. When we're running simulated battles to prepare for this, you were one tough nut to deal with, it took me a long while just to get through your forest of bomb" Akeno giggles as she walks the memory lane.
"But when fighting the real you, I realize..." Akeno stops for a moment "The Yubelluna I fought back then...wasn't you...I never thought a simulation could be stronger than the real deal. But it did"
"It seems that's why Rias always arrived late for the simulated battle, she was busy making simulated you stronger to make it hard for us but looking at you know. It's a little...underwhelming"
Yubelluna grit her teeth, struggling to push herself up from the rubble. Sparks of lingering electricity still crackled across her body, her muscles twitching involuntarily from the aftershock of Akeno's devastating attack.
"You..." she growled, her fingers tightening around her staff. "You dare mock me...?"
Akeno simply smiled, tilting her head as if she had just given a compliment. "Mock? Oh no, I'm just a little... disappointed~" She twirled a lock of her raven hair between her fingers, stepping closer with unhurried grace.
"All this time, I thought you were the real threat in Riser's peerage," she continued, her tone still sweet but laced with something sharper. "You were supposed to be the ace—the Bomb Queen of the Phenex. But now?" She let out a playful sigh, shaking her head. "It turns out you were just a sparkler, not a firework. A little flash, but no real impact."
Yubelluna's violet eyes burned with rage. "Shut up!" She thrust her staff forward, summoning a dozen overlapping magic circles. But before the circle could take shape, the hand with the staff of Yubelluna was cut off by Akeno.
"Ara~You're such a naughty girl, Yubelluna. And naughty girls need some punishment about their place" Akeno's smile darkens and gets more sadistic as she walks towards Riser's Queen with the naginata crackling in her hand.
"Just so you know, the injuries in here will not follow you outside, so I can have as much 'fun' with you as possible. And trust me, and I know just how much damage I need to deal to make the system not take you out of here. But first..." Akeno twirls her hand and Yubelluna's mouth is sealed shut.
"This will make you quiet enough to not be able to retire yourself....so, where were we?"
Yubelluna's eyes widened in sheer horror as her voice was stolen from her, her mouth sealed by Akeno's precise magic. Her entire body trembled, both from the aftershocks of electricity still coursing through her nerves and the overwhelming presence of the sadistic shrine maiden walking towards her with slow, deliberate steps.
Akeno's naginata crackled ominously, arcs of lightning dancing along its length as she tilted her head, her expression one of pure, twisted delight. "Ah, right~ I was about to teach you exactly where you stand."
Yubelluna tried to step back, but her balance faltered. Blood dripped from the stump of her severed wrist, though it didn't bring pain—just a phantom numbness from the Rating Game's system preventing any real suffering. But the sight of it alone was terrifying.
"You Phenex-types always act so high and mighty with your flames and healing~" Akeno continued, twirling her weapon. "But right now? You're nothing but a little bird with clipped wings... and I do so enjoy playing with my prey."
With a sudden burst of speed, Akeno closed the distance in an instant. She appeared behind Yubelluna, her naginata resting gently against the Queen's back.
"Let's see how long you last before the system deems you unfit to continue~"
A surge of electricity exploded from Akeno's weapon, coursing through Yubelluna's entire body. The Bomb Queen arched backward, her silent scream echoing only in her mind as her nerves were overwhelmed once more.
Lightning danced violently around her, scorching her clothes, numbing her limbs, and leaving her helpless before Akeno's relentless assault.
And Akeno? She laughed. A soft, delighted giggle that grew into a full, ecstatic laugh.
"Oh~? Still standing? How wonderful! Let's keep going then!"
Yubelluna's body jerked as Akeno sent another precise bolt into her legs, forcing her to kneel.
"Kneeling already? Now, that's a sight I like to see~" Akeno purred, stepping closer. She knelt beside Yubelluna, running a single electrified finger down the Queen's cheek, watching as her body involuntarily spasmed under the stimulation. "I wonder... if I push just a little more... how long before the system steps in?"
More electricity surged into Yubelluna's body, causing her vision to blur and her limbs to convulse uncontrollably. Her mind screamed for release, but she could do nothing.
Akeno leaned in close, whispering against her ear. "Now, tell me" she lifts the spell from Yubelluna, allowing her to speak. She shakily murmurs "I...I...I resign"
Akeno giggles "Good girl, enjoy your recovery!" she says cheerfully when Yubelluna disappears from the gymnasium.
"Riser's team, Queen Yubelluna—retired."
As Yubelluna's body shimmered and vanished from the battlefield, Akeno let out a soft giggle, spinning on her heel with a satisfied hum.
"Ara ara~ That was quicker than I expected..." she mused, stretching her arms lazily. "Maybe I was a little too harsh on her?"
She paused, then shrugged, an impish grin spreading across her face. "Oh well~"
Crackling arcs of lightning surged around her as she lifted off the ground, surveying the battlefield. With Riser's Queen retired, the remaining members of his peerage were scattered and vulnerable.
"Now then... who's next?"
With a burst of speed, Akeno disappeared, streaking across the artificial sky like a thunderbolt, ready to claim her next target.
At another corner of the battlefield
Karlamine was pushed back by Kiba, her pants were visible when she was trying to keep up with him, his swords fly at her endlessly like projectiles, keeping her busy all the time. Among normal swords there are those embedded with spells.
Karlamine gritted her teeth as she deflected yet another incoming sword strike, her arms trembling from the relentless onslaught. Kiba moved like a phantom, his movements fluid, his attacks unceasing.
Every time she tried to counter, another blade was already coming at her from a different angle. His speed was overwhelming, his skill undeniable. And to make matters worse, among the normal swords flying at her, there were some embedded with magic—ice, wind, lightning—forcing her to react not just to steel, but to unpredictable elemental effects as well.
With a desperate grunt, Karlamine swung her flaming sword in a wide arc, attempting to clear some space. A wave of fire burst forward, momentarily pushing Kiba back.
"Not bad," Kiba admitted, landing gracefully a few feet away, his swords hovering around him like a floating arsenal. "But you're struggling, Riser's Knight. You can't keep up with me, can you?"
Karlamine scowled but didn't respond. She knew he was right. She was a proud knight, a frontline fighter in Riser's peerage, but Kiba was on an entirely different level. His speed was unnatural, his technique polished to perfection. He didn't just fight—he danced across the battlefield, weaving through her defenses with ease.
In an instant, more swords manifested in the air around him, shimmering with deadly intent.
Karlamine's breath hitched. And then—they all came flying at her at once.
"Tch—!" She barely managed to react, dodging and parrying as best as she could. The air around her sang with the sound of clashing metal. She deflected one, then another, but a third slashed across her shoulder, forcing her back.
Suddenly, she feels slash from behind her back, the cold metal running along her back sends searing pain through her body. Karlamine stumbles forward as she falls down with blood flowing out from her back.
"You fought well, Riser's Knight, but it seems I'm the winner today, retire yourself from this game before any more damage comes to you" Kiba gracefully pins his sword to the ground, giving his opponent an option.
But instead of giving up, Karlamine's trembling hand grips her sword tighter "No, I won't run away like a coward you think I am" she stands up and directs her sword forward again to Kiba's face "I'm Karlamine, Lord Riser Phenex's Knight, and I won't let you humiliate me like this."
She launches forward despite her injuries, a small smile appears on Kiba's lips as he dashes in as well, and with a clean slash through her stomach, Karlamine is completely defeated. Before she disappears, she turns one last gaze to Kiba, he puts his hand over his chest and bows "And I'm Kiba Yuuto, Lady Rias Gremory's Knight, It's been an honor fighting you, Karlamine"
Despite the pain, she managed a small, tired smile. "An honor... huh?" she murmured, her body beginning to glow. With one last look at Kiba, she closed her eyes and allowed herself to be taken out of the battlefield.
"Riser's team, Knight Karlamine—retired."
The announcement echoed across the battlefield, marking yet another devastating loss for Riser's peerage. Kiba exhaled softly, watching as Karlamine disappeared. Though he had won, he couldn't help but respect her unwavering resolve. "A knight to the end," he mused before turning away, his duty still unfinished.
As he walks along the way back to his King "I wonder how much did Lady Rias crank up in that difficulty adjustment?" Kiba put a hand under his chin "I remember when fighting simulated Karlamine in those mock battles, she was much stronger, faster and more cunning. It almost felt like......fighting an Abyssgard warrior."
His mind drives back to his streak of defeat against Arto, a shiver runs down his spine "They are always a pain, and I fought their leader...Better not think about it now, still have to go back to assist lady Rias" With that said, Kiba disappears
On Koneko's side
Xuelan was thrown at a tree, the force was so strong it took a few trees to stop her from flying. Xuelan groaned as she struggled to pull herself from the splintered remains of the trees. Pain shot through her body, her muscles aching from the sheer force of the impact. She barely had time to react before—
CRACK!
Koneko was already upon her, closing the distance like a ghost. The small yet monstrously powerful Rook launched herself forward, fist cocked back, eyes glowing with fierce determination.
Xuelan groaned as she peeled herself off the shattered tree trunk, her body aching from the sheer force of the impact. Her arms trembled as she pushed herself up, glaring at the small yet terrifying force before her.
Koneko stood calmly amidst the destruction, her expression as unreadable as ever. She cracked her knuckles, the air around her rippling slightly from the sheer physical force she exuded. Despite her petite frame, she had sent Xuelan flying with a single strike—no magic, no tricks, just raw strength.
Xuelan wiped the blood from the corner of her mouth and took a deep breath. "Damn... I underestimated her strength."
But retreating wasn't an option. She was one of Riser's best hand-to-hand combatants, a Rook who prided herself on her martial prowess. And she refused to lose without giving it everything she had.
"Tch... not bad," Xuelan admitted, shifting back into a fighting stance. Her muscles tensed as she circulated her aura through her limbs, reinforcing her body. "But don't think you can just throw me around and end it there."
Koneko tilted her head slightly, her golden eyes staring unblinkingly at her opponent. Then, with almost lazy movements, she raised her fists.
"...Come." Xuelan didn't need another invitation. With a burst of speed, she shot forward, fists flying in a flurry of strikes aimed at Koneko's center.
But Koneko didn't dodge.
Instead, she met Xuelan head-on, deflecting the blows with the barest movements, shifting just enough to negate the impact. A sharp palm strike to the ribs, a subtle shift to the side, a counterpunch to the gut—each movement calculated, efficient, and overwhelmingly heavy.
Xuelan gasped as the wind was knocked out of her. "She's too strong!" Before she could recover, Koneko grabbed her wrist and—without hesitation—spun and slammed her into the ground, creating a crater upon impact.
The battlefield trembled from the sheer force of it.
Xuelan coughed violently, her body refusing to move. She could feel the arena's magic beginning to activate, signaling her imminent retirement. Koneko took a step back, still eerily calm. "...You're strong," she admitted in her usual monotone voice. "But I'm stronger."
The announcement echoed moments later.
"Riser's team, Rook Xuelan—retired."
With a slow exhale, Koneko turned away and left without another word. There was still work to be done. "I wonder what President did with the simulation room, fighting Xuelan there was like fighting Chun-Li, not this pathetic slop, I didn't even have to use Senjutsu for this" Koneko shrugs, she has done her part and can now regroup with everyone else.
At ORC clubhouse
The announcement rang one after another marking Rias' dominating victory. She stands on the roof of the clubhouse with a smile "14 down, 2 left" her eyes directed at Riser's direction as he was flying here with Ravel.
Rias smirks as she snaps her fingers, and from the trees below, rays of Destruction magic are shot into the sky like anti-air weapons, the whole trees surrounding the clubhouse become Rias' ultimate defense line.
Riser gritted his teeth as he weaved through the crimson barrage of destruction magic soaring toward him and Ravel. The sky around them was illuminated by the sheer intensity of the attack, each beam of annihilation slicing through the air like an executioner's blade.
"She was waiting for us," Ravel hissed, flaring her wings as she dodged a near-miss, the heat of the destruction magic burning her feathers. "That entire forest... it's a kill zone!"
Riser growled, summoning massive torrents of Phoenix fire to burn away the forest, but it couldn't stop the barrage as they kept shooting, waning away Riser's healing ability. His attention turns towards Rias who is on the roof of the clubhouse but his attacks were either disrupted by the rays, or blocked by an invisible field Rias set up in front of the clubhouse.
Riser clenched his fists, frustration seething through him. Every time he tried to push forward, another barrage of destruction magic cut through the air, forcing him to evade rather than advance. His flames, once an unshakable force of regeneration, were beginning to wane under the sheer oppressive energy of Rias' magic.
"How in the hell does she have so much mana?" Ravel wonders as she dodges another set of Destruction Ray "She has been shooting non-stop for a while now and the barrages have never stopped" Ravel takes a moment to look down the forest to see the thing that was shooting her, an eye.
"What the—?" Ravel takes a hit and almost falls from the sky if not for Riser to shield her. "Ravel!" Riser shouted, catching her just in time. He gritted his teeth as he turned his gaze toward the source of the attacks.
Down below, scattered throughout the forest, dozens of eerie, thousands of floating crimson eyes blinked in unison. Each one pulsed with Rias' signature Power of Destruction, launching relentless beams into the sky like an unstoppable artillery barrage.
Riser gritted his teeth as he took the hit for Ravel, the blast of destruction magic slamming into his Phoenix flames with a force that sent shockwaves through his body. He winced as the heat seared through his regenerative barrier, his body briefly faltering before the flames flickered back to life, healing the damage.
"Focus, Ravel!" he snapped, pulling her back into the sky with a surge of strength. His wings beat harder against the pressure of the barrage, their sharp edges cleaving through the air. "We can't afford to be careless!"
Ravel, still breathless from the impact, looked down toward the forest, her eyes narrowing. What she saw there made her heart skip a beat.
"The source... it's not just the trees!" she hissed, her gaze locking onto the massive, glowing crimson eye at the center of the forest. The eye, pulsating with raw magical energy, was the one firing the relentless destruction rays at them.
Riser's brow furrowed in disbelief. "So that's how she's been maintaining this continuous barrage. But that... thing is an anomaly."
Ravel's mind raced. The eye wasn't just some magical construct; it was alive, pulsing with an incredible, almost sentient energy that seemed to anticipate their every movement.
"She's controlling it directly. It's like a magical cannon with an insane amount of mana." Ravel's eyes flicked back toward Riser. "If we don't take that out, we won't stand a chance."
Riser's golden eyes burned with fury. "Fine. We'll destroy it. Riser has had enough of this cat-and-mouse game." He turned to face Ravel, his wings flaring as he prepared for what was to come.
"Ravel, come here, empower Riser" Ravel looks at him "Are you really going to push through all of this?"
"This might be the only way to get to Rias, Riser will burst through this stupid forest and burn that smuggling face of hers away"
Ravel hesitated for a moment before nodding, clenching her fists as she summoned the burning golden energy of the Phoenix. Flames swirled around her hands as she came to hug him to channel her magic into Riser, feeding his already formidable firepower.
"If you're going to do this, Brother, then do it right!" she shouted, pouring everything she had into him. "I won't let you lose here!"
Riser's flames roared to life, burning hotter and brighter than ever. His entire body pulsed with an overwhelming surge of power, his golden wings now tinged with an intense crimson hue as they ignited into an inferno.
With a smirk, Riser cracked his knuckles, feeling the raw power surging through him. "Now this is more like it," he growled. "Rias, your little game ends now!"
Without hesitation, Riser shot forward like a meteor, cutting through the air with a fiery trail behind him. The destruction rays rained down on him, but this time, he didn't evade. He charged straight through, his flames burning so hot that they clashed against the annihilation magic, momentarily nullifying it.
The eye in the forest pulsated wildly, its attacks increasing in frequency, but Riser only pushed harder, flames erupting outward in an explosive force.
"RAVEL, NOW!" he roared.
Ravel hugs him tighter, sending a final surge of Phoenix magic directly into Riser's chest, accelerating him like a fiery spear of destruction.
Riser let out a battle cry as he closed the distance to the pulsating eye. "Burn to ashes!" he bellowed, unleashing a massive torrent of flames directly into its core.
Riser and Ravel collide with Rias' barrier around the clubhouse, an unstoppable force meets an immovable object. A deafening shockwave rippled through the battlefield as Riser, wreathed in golden flames, crashed into Rias' barrier with all his might. The sheer force of the impact sent tremors through the entire artificial Kuoh Academy, the air itself vibrating from the clash of Phoenix fire and Destruction magic.
Ravel gritted her teeth, pouring everything she had into reinforcing Riser's flames, amplifying his power to its absolute limit. "Brother, push through!" she screamed.
Riser snarled, his body burning like a second sun as he pressed forward, fists slamming against the shimmering crimson shield. His flames surged, licking hungrily at the magical barrier, trying to erode it with pure force and willpower.
But on the other side, Rias has one of her hands raised as she meets the attack head on, she quickly stabilizes the barrier and amplifies it further and further with her magic. Her face expresses no pressure or timidity as she calmly controls the barrier against the sheer force of Riser's attack.
Slowly, Rias' middle finger and ring finger curl back into a snap. She braces herself for a release and when the fingers were shot forwards, an overwhelming strength pushes the attack of Phenex siblings back, a deafening crack echoed through the battlefield. In an instant, the entire barrier pulsed with overwhelming energy before erupting outward in a massive counterforce.
BOOM!
Riser and Ravel were hurled backward as a colossal shockwave tore through the sky, their flames scattering in all directions as they were shot into the forest around the clubhouse. Ravel let out a sharp gasp as she lost control, her wings faltering under the immense backlash.
Riser, on the other hand, holds his sister close as they clash into the ground of the forest. The impact sent a shockwave through the earth, uprooting trees and leaving a scorched crater where the Phenex siblings crashed. Smoke and embers filled the air as Ravel groaned, struggling to regain her composure. Her vision blurred from the sheer force of the counterattack, but through the haze, she could see her brother rising to his feet, his flames flickering wildly.
But when he looks at his hands, they are gone completely, and his body was covered in injuries from the push. Riser falls to the ground as his body starts healing, but the pace has weakened. Ravel comes to her brother "Riser, Riser, here, take this"
She pulls out the Phoenix Tears from her vault to heal her brother, but before she could hand it to him.
CRACK!
The vial was destroyed before her eyes, that's when she realizes she and him are in the forest and there are hundreds of eyes looking at them, ready to shoot their destructive rays at any moment.
Ravel froze, her breath hitching as the eerie glow of countless crimson eyes pierced through the dense forest mist. Each one shimmered with the unmistakable aura of Destruction magic, their sinister light illuminating the trees like a death sentence.
She barely had time to process what had happened—the Phoenix Tears, their last resort, shattered before her very eyes. "How?" She hadn't even sensed the attack.
Riser, still kneeling on the ground, gritted his teeth as his body struggled to regenerate. "Damn it..." he hissed, his frustration mounting. His hands were gone, his body battered, and now, they were completely surrounded.
Above them, perched high in the trees, figures emerged—shadowed silhouettes with piercing gazes, their energy crackling in the dimly lit battlefield. They weren't just eyes. They were weapons. A hundred different angles, a hundred different attacks primed to strike the instant Rias willed it.
And then, they shoot endless rays of Destruction at the siblings. Ravel quickly sets up a barrier around them with the last bits of her power. The firepower of Rias is making the barrier shake wildly, Ravel looks at Riser "Brother, you'd better heal fast, you're the last hope for us to win"
Riser gritted his teeth as he forced his regeneration to accelerate, but the relentless barrage of Destruction magic made it nearly impossible. His flames flickered weakly, struggling to mend his wounds at their usual rapid pace. He had never felt this cornered before.
Ravel, her arms trembling as she held the barrier together, knew they were out of time. Rias wasn't just attacking—she was overwhelming them, suppressing them completely, leaving no room for counterplay.
The cracks in the barrier spread like spiderwebs. "I can't hold this much longer...!" she realized with growing panic.
But a turn of events comes that make the so-called immortal Phenex feel an emotion that seems foreign to them, despair.
Riser witnesses with his own naked eye as a bullet pierces through the fractured barrier Ravel set up and straight into Riser's little sister's head.
She didn't even have time to react as her head rocks back from the impact. And the next moment, she explodes into pieces before Riser's eyes.
"Riser's team, Bishop Ravel Phenex—retired"
The announcement was followed by the fallen barrier, making the eyes' shots reach inside, reach Riser.
Riser's world stopped.
His breath caught in his throat, his body frozen in place as the image of Ravel shattering into nothing burned itself into his mind. One moment, she had been there—his little sister, his strategist, his last remaining ally. And in the next, she was gone.
Just gone.
The cold, indifferent announcement rang through the battlefield, but it barely registered in his mind. His ears were ringing, his vision a blur. His body trembled—not from pain, but from something far worse.
Then, the barrier fell.
And the crimson storm of Destruction magic surged forward, consuming everything in its path—including him.
"AAAAAAGGGGHHHHHHHHHH!"
Riser screamed as the devastating energy tore into his body. His flames, his so-called immortality, were nothing against this overwhelming force. His limbs were disintegrating, his very essence being erased at an excruciatingly slow pace, as if Rias was making him feel every ounce of his defeat.
From the depths of annihilation, amidst the suffocating darkness of his defeat, a single ember still burned.
A flicker of golden fire ignited within the abyss, refusing to be snuffed out.
Riser's body, ravaged and torn, was dissolving into nothingness. His so-called immortality had failed him against the sheer, merciless might of Rias' Destruction. His pride was shattered, his arrogance crushed under the weight of absolute defeat.
And yet—Something deep within him refused to let go. "No..."
The word barely formed in his consciousness, but it was there. A whisper of defiance against the void swallowing him whole.
"I... won't... fall... like this..."
The flames within him, so weak they were almost nonexistent, fought against the erasure consuming him. It was different from before—this was not the effortless, natural regeneration of a Phenex. This was something raw. Something desperate.
The battlefield was silent, save for the last crackles of fading energy. The eyes of Destruction flickered, their task complete. The match had been decided.
And yet—
A faint glow began to stir within the scorched earth where Riser had fallen.
A golden ember.A breath. A heartbeat. And then—
"FWOOOOOM!"
A pillar of fire erupted into the sky, splitting the heavens with its brilliance. The inferno roared with unyielding intensity, defying the very laws of the Rating Game itself.
From the flames, a figure emerged. Charred. Broken. Burning. But alive.
Riser Phenex stood once more. Yet, he was not the same. What remained was something far more primal. Far more dangerous.
His body trembled, his breath ragged. His once-golden flames were now a deep, molten red, surging wildly around him like a storm. His eyes, glowing with newfound resolve, locked onto the clubhouse where Rias stood.
The Phoenix had been reduced to ashes. But from those ashes... he would rise again. He launches his way into the sky towards the clubhouse, and fire attacks start coming from him, the flame collides with the barrier, making it shake violently as cracks appear.
Rias stood atop the clubhouse, watching as the flames battered against her barrier like a relentless tidal wave. The once-smug, overconfident Riser was gone—what surged toward her now was something far more primal, far more determined.
She narrowed her eyes as the sheer heat of his assault distorted the air around them, the sky itself ablaze with golden fire. Despite everything, despite losing Ravel, despite being torn apart by her magic, he still rose.
The battlefield trembled under the weight of his fury.
Riser let out a roar as he threw both hands forward, summoning a colossal inferno that dwarfed everything before it. A sun of raging fire bloomed above him, and in a single motion, he sent it crashing toward the ORC clubhouse.
Rias exhaled slowly. Then, with a flick of her wrist—
SNAP!
The barrier pulsed—then expanded outward in a violent eruption of Destruction magic, devouring the incoming flames like a black hole. The moment the fire met her power, it unraveled into nothingness. But Riser doesn't stop as he keeps attacking in rage and fury
Rias observed the scene with an unshaken expression, her crimson hair billowing slightly from the residual shockwaves of Riser's rebirth.
"As expected," she murmured, watching as the infernal storm of Riser's revived flames surged into the sky and attacked her relentlessly.
Despite the sheer spectacle of his resurrection, her demeanor remained composed. It wasn't arrogance, nor was it carelessness—it was preparedness. She had planned for this.
Akeno, who stood beside her on the rooftop, chuckled softly, her fingers crackling with faint traces of lightning. "Ara, ara~ He really doesn't know when to stay down, does he?"
Kiba, who had just returned from his battle, glanced at the blazing inferno and crossed his arms. "It's different this time... His flames—"
"They've changed," Koneko finished, standing beside him. Her golden eyes narrowed slightly as she assessed Riser's energy. "They're not like before. It seems you've revived him into something...new"
Rias smirked slightly. "Doesn't matter, we've faced this countless times in our simulated battles, now it's time to extinguish his flame, initiate Flame Eater Protocol!"
At Rias' command, the battlefield shifted.
The moment Flame Eater Protocol was activated, a wave of magical energy rippled across the ORC's defensive perimeter. The entire forest, once a battlefield littered with remnants of destruction, responded.
A deep crimson glow spread through the trees—no, not trees. Constructs. Hidden in the forest were dozens—no, hundreds—of magical formations, invisible until now, each one humming with the same Destruction energy as Rias herself.
Riser, still soaring high above, hesitated for a fraction of a second as his instincts screamed danger.
From the ground, the countless eyes that had fired upon him before now pulsed with even greater power. Their crimson glow intensified, locking onto him like predatory beasts zeroing in on their prey.
Akeno raised a hand, her fingers crackling with electricity. "Ara~ I was wondering when we'd get to use this."
Kiba smirked, unsheathing his sword. "An entire forest designed specifically to consume fire... Rias, you really don't hold back."
Koneko cracked her knuckles. "It's over."
Rias extended her arm forward, her fingers curling slightly as raw Destruction magic coalesced around her palm.
"Fire might always rise, Riser..." She clenched her fist, and the entire battlefield reacted. "But Destruction always consumes."
And with that, the sky turned red.
Hundreds—no, thousands—of beams erupted from the forest below, lancing toward Riser with terrifying speed. Unlike before, these weren't mere bombardments—they pulled at his flames, ripping them apart, draining them, devouring them..
His golden inferno flickered violently, struggling against the abyssal hunger of Rias' magic. He flared his wings in defiance, trying to push forward, but the more he burned, the faster his flames were consumed. His legendary regeneration—the cornerstone of his immortality—was failing him.
He reached toward the clubhouse, toward Rias—his body crumbling as the Destruction magic eroded him piece by piece.
"No... No...!" His voice was raw, his mind frantic. "I AM RISER PHENEX! I CANNOT DIE!"
Rias gazed at him, unflinching. Then, with a final snap of her fingers—
A colossal, concentrated beam of Destruction magic surged upward, engulfing Riser entirely.
Riser's flames—the very source of his power—were being stripped away. His body, already weakened from the previous battle, struggled to fight against the impossible. And so he fell to the ground, making an great crater as he lands
Riser's knees buckled slightly as he desperately tried to reignite his flames, but they sputtered and died the moment they left his body, devoured by the overwhelming force of the Flame Eater Protocol. His golden aura, once a beacon of regeneration and pride, flickered like a dying candle in the wind.
"No... impossible," he muttered, clenching his fists. His body still remembered the pain from before—when Ravel had been obliterated in front of him, when he had felt true fear for the first time. Now, that fear returned, heavier than ever.
Rias' expression remained composed as she took a step forward on the rooftop, her eyes locked onto Riser's fading flame. "It's over, Riser," she declared, her voice filled with certainty. "You may be a Phoenix, but even legends have their limits."
Akeno tilted her head playfully. "Ara, this is the part where you fall, isn't it?" she mused, sparks of electricity crackling at her fingertips. "Would you like me to give you a little... push?"
Kiba stood ready, his sword glinting under the battlefield's eerie glow. "It's impressive that you made it this far, but it ends here."
Koneko remained silent, but her fists were clenched, ready to strike if necessary.
Riser let out a shaky breath, his body trembling from the unnatural suppression of his flames. "No... I won't lose. I am Riser Phenex. I am immortal. I am—"
His thoughts were cut off as the sigils pulsed with power once more. The last remnants of his flames were forcefully torn from him, leaving him utterly drained. His body, once burning with endless vitality, now felt... cold. Weak. Mortal.
His breath came in ragged gasps as he dropped to one knee, sweat dripping from his forehead. He looked up at Rias, realization dawning on his face. She is not the woman he wanted to claim anymore, she is not the one he thought he could beat easily anymore, she has defeated him in every aspect, as a leader, as a strategist, and a warrior.
Riser gritted his teeth, his pride warring with the undeniable truth before him. His entire body felt foreign—weak, frail, vulnerable. He, a Phenex, reduced to this state? It was unthinkable. And yet, here he was, kneeling in the dirt before Rias Gremory, utterly powerless.
He forced himself to lift his gaze, meeting Rias' unwavering stare. She wasn't gloating. She wasn't mocking him. She simply looked... resolute. A queen standing victorious on her battlefield.
"...You were never supposed to be this strong," Riser rasped, his voice barely above a whisper.
Rias tilted her head slightly. "Then perhaps you never truly understood who I was. You were a fool falling for that Rating Game proposal of mine" She extends her hand and a massive ray of Destruction power shoots out, obliterating Riser from his spot.
'King Riser has been retired! Winner is Rias Gremory!'
The moment the announcement echoed across the battlefield, the artificial night sky of the Rating Game space flickered, signaling the match's conclusion. The once-intense battleground, littered with the scars of their fierce battle, slowly began to fade away, returning to the default serene atmosphere of the arena.
Rias exhaled softly, lowering her hand as the last remnants of Riser's existence within the battlefield were erased. Her crimson aura dimmed, no longer needing to exert dominance. The fight was over. Victory was hers.
Akeno clapped her hands together, her signature teasing smile never leaving her lips. "Ara, ara~ That was a little cruel, President. You didn't even let him have a final word before erasing him."
Kiba let out a small chuckle, sheathing his sword. "She gave him more than enough chances. He simply refused to acknowledge reality until the very end."
Koneko, standing quietly beside them, crossed her arms and muttered, "It was the only way to make him understand."
As the battlefield fully dissipated and the real-world venue of the Rating Game reappeared, the entire stadium erupted into a mix of cheers and stunned silence. The Phenex family representatives watched in disbelief, their expressions torn between anger and begrudging respect. Meanwhile, Sirzechs, watching from the VIP area, smiled approvingly at his sister's flawless execution.
Rias turned toward her peerage, pride swelling in her chest. They had all played their roles perfectly. Every strategy, every adjustment, every ounce of effort had led to this moment. She had not only won—she had dominated.
"Wait, did I just forget someone?" Rias looked around, searching for something, then her eyes widened "Oh, right! Asia and Issei, I totally forgot they are here with us"
Akeno blinked, then let out a small giggle. "Ara, ara~ You were so focused on obliterating Riser that you forgot about our adorable little duo?"
Kiba smirked, crossing his arms. "That's rare for you, President. But to be fair, they weren't exactly front and center in this battle."
Rias waves her hands "Of course they weren't, they were here to watch and learn how things go in this peerage after all, they are new so I never expected them to perform like you all did. But still, a test was in order, let's see what they learnt today"
Rias hums as she walks towards the clubhouse where Asia and Issei are. As Rias made her way toward the clubhouse, the faint sounds of cheering from the crowd still echoed in the distance. Her footsteps were steady, the weight of her victory settling comfortably on her shoulders. But there was something else now, a curiosity about how Asia and Issei had been absorbing all that had transpired. They had been mere observers up until this point, but Rias was confident that the day's events would have made an impact on them.
Akeno, still with that playful smirk on her lips, followed Rias closely. "Do you think they'll surprise us, President?" she asked with a hint of mischief in her voice.
"Surprise, hmm? I wouldn't go that far," Rias replied with a light chuckle. "But they certainly should have learned a thing or two. At least, I hope they've learned the importance of strategy and how to be a part of something larger than just themselves."
As they reached the entrance to the clubhouse, Rias swung open the door, revealing Asia and Issei, who had been sitting nearby, looking somewhat lost in their thoughts. Asia stood up first, her large blue eyes filled with concern. Issei, meanwhile, had a more pensive expression, his gaze distant but unwavering.
"Ah, President!" Asia greeted with a smile, though it was clear she was still processing the events. "Is everything okay?"
Rias smiled warmly at her, nodding. "Everything is more than okay, Asia. Riser's been retired, as you can see. You two were here to observe, but now that it's over, I want to hear your thoughts. What did you learn today?"
Issei stood up as well, dusting himself off. He scratched the back of his head awkwardly, looking between Asia and Rias. "Well, uh... I don't know if I learned much by just watching, but I definitely saw how intense everything is. I can't believe the kind of power you all have." He glanced at Rias with a mixture of admiration and a hint of uncertainty. "I still have a long way to go."
Asia nodded in agreement, though there was a more subtle, determined gleam in her eyes. "I think I understand more about how you all protect one another and how strong your bond is. But I still feel like there's more I need to know to be truly helpful." She paused, her gaze dropping. "I don't want to be in the way."
Rias walked over and placed a reassuring hand on Asia's shoulder. "You won't be in the way, Asia. You've already shown that you have great potential. But learning how to fight isn't just about raw strength. It's about understanding when to act and when to step back. Everyone here has their role. Even if you aren't the one in the spotlight, your actions make a difference."
Akeno nodded in agreement, her eyes softening as she gazed at the two. "True strength lies in the ability to know your place in the grand scheme of things, Asia. And when the time comes for you to act, you'll know what to do. Just remember that you're not alone."
Issei, looking a bit more inspired now, clenched his fist. "I guess what I learned today is that this isn't just about fighting. It's about understanding and growing stronger together. If I want to keep up with you all, I need to be more than just a guy with power—I need to be a teammate."
Rias smiled at him, proud of his words. "Exactly. It's not enough to just be strong. You have to grow, to adapt, and to always be there for your friends. You both have what it takes. I have faith in you."
Rias then turned to look at Akeno and the others who had joined her. "Everyone's contribution today was invaluable. We all played our part, and the result speaks for itself. But let's not forget, we're a team, and we'll continue growing together. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and that's what makes us powerful."
Notes:
A/N: That's the end of the Rating Game between Rias and Riser. Should I do a peanut gallery chapter for people's reaction? Leave your opinion in the comment
Chapter 37: The celebration
Summary:
Aftermath of the Rating Game
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
With victory claimed, Rias leaves the arena in the cheers of the people who watched her performance, but she pays them no mind, she has something else to attend to.
Akeno knows exactly what was happening and she starts teasing her King "Ara~Why in such a rush, President~? Are you racing to see someone?"
Rias shot Akeno a sideways glance but didn't slow her pace. "I don't have time for your teasing right now, Akeno."
Akeno just giggled, falling in step beside her. "Oh my, how cold~ But I suppose it makes sense. After all, someone very special is waiting for you, isn't he?"
Kiba smirked as he trailed behind them. "At this point, you might as well admit it, Rias. The moment the match ended, your first thought wasn't the crowd, or the victory-it was him."
Rias huffed, but a faint blush dusted her cheeks. "I have my priorities," she muttered.
Koneko, walking beside Kiba, simply said, "She's running to her reward."
Akeno gasped in mock shock, placing a hand over her mouth. "Oh my, Koneko-chan! You're absolutely right. After such a magnificent battle, our dear Rias deserves a prize, and what better prize than-"
"Who are you talking about?" Issei chimes in the conversation "Who could have caused our President to go with such pace?" Asia joins in as well as she tries to keep up with others.
Akeno turned to Issei with a knowing smirk, her violet eyes shimmering with mischief. "Oh, Issei-kun~You know that person, it's just you were recruited at the time of his absence of you don't know his role to the peerage and most importantly, our President's life"
Issei blinks "Wait, I know him?" Kiba nods "Indeed, you know him well, it's just you don't know his involvement in the business of the peerage, he was the one that trained us to be who we are today..."
Asia also joins in "This person trained all of you to be powerful? I didn't hear anything about him." Koneko answers "Because at the time of your arrival, he was absent from the ORC. Besides, he trained us at first, but when we were tough enough, President Rias designed our regimen so we rarely trained under him since then,"
Kiba nods "Indeed, he took on other roles when the training management was transferred to Rias, so we rarely mention his name in training. But hey, you're about to meet him"
Issei scratched his head in confusion. "Man, this is starting to sound like some mysterious boss character in a game. Who is this guy?"
Akeno giggled. "Oh, he's more than that, Issei-kun. You could say he's Rias'-"
Rias shot Akeno a glare. "Enough with the teasing. You'll see soon enough."
"Okay, but can I at least know his name?" Issei asks with curiosity filled him mind "His name is Arto Abyssgard, and you're about to meet President's beloved"
Issei froze mid-step. "Wait... what?! Beloved?"
Kiba smirked, clearly enjoying the reaction. "Oh yes, Rias' beloved."
Asia gasped, clasping her hands together. "Oh my! Does Rias-san have someone special like that?"
Koneko, as blunt as ever, nodded. "Very special."
Akeno leaned in close to Issei, her voice dripping with amusement. "Ara, ara~ Poor Issei-kun. Did you think you were the only one vying for Rias' heart?"
Issei felt his whole world shift for a moment. "B-But I thought-! I mean, I was hoping-! Who the heck is this guy?!"
Before anyone could answer, Rias suddenly stopped. The group followed her gaze towards a tall, imposing figure leaning casually against the entrance of the arena waiting room.
Arto Abyssgard.
His presence alone radiated an air of power and confidence, dressed in a sleek, dark coat with a subtle but undeniable aura of authority. His dark blue eyes met Rias' with an intensity that made her breath hitch for just a second before she marched straight toward him.
Without hesitation, Rias closed the distance and, to the absolute shock of Issei, Asia, wrapped her arms around Arto in a fierce embrace.
Arto chuckled, resting a hand on her head. "Welcome back, Champion."
Rias looked up at him, her sapphire eyes shimmering with satisfaction. "Did you watch?"
Arto smirked. "Every second." He leans in to kiss her and she melts into his love as their kiss lingers.
Akeno sighed dreamily. "How romantic~"
Kiba just chuckled, while Koneko nodded in approval.
Meanwhile, Issei was still trying to process what had just happened. "So the Arto Abyssgard you're all talking about...is Aruto Abyga-senpai!?"
Akeno giggles "I told you you know him, right? So here he is, Arto Abyssgard, Aruto is just a name he used at school, his real name is Arto and he is the one behind what we displayed back there in the Rating Game"
Issei's jaw nearly hit the floor. "Wait, wait, wait- Aruto-senpai is him?!"
Akeno giggled, tilting her head playfully. "Of course~The one you and the boys at school have a long streak of jealousy towards"
Kiba chuckles "Yeah, I still remember how you all paraded when he was absent for a month"
Issei's mind was spinning. Aruto-senpai... is Arto Abyssgard?! The same Aruto-senpai that every guy in school envied? The one who always seemed untouchable, effortlessly cool, and now... was standing here, holding Rias like she was his world?
He pointed an accusing finger at Arto. "Wait, wait, hold on! You're telling me that you-the same Aruto-senpai who all the girls in school fawned over-are actually the real Arto Abyssgard? The guy who trained everyone here? The guy who just kissed Rias like it's the most normal thing in the world?!"
Arto raised an eyebrow, amused. "That's a lot of emphasis on 'kissed,' Hyoudou."
Issei sputtered. "Because you did! In front of everyone!"
Akeno chuckled. "Oh my, Issei-kun~ You sound so surprised. Did you really think our dear Rias would wait forever?"
Issei turned to Rias, desperation in his eyes. "But, Prez! You never said anything about-about-" He gestured wildly at Arto.
But she was too busy kissing to mind Issei's words. She slowly breaks their kiss and rests her forehead against his.
"I've won, my love. I've won my freedom back" she whispers softly "I can finally marry you, Arto~"
Arto's expression softened as he gazed into Rias' sapphire eyes, his hands resting gently on her waist. "Of course you did," he murmured, his voice filled with quiet pride. "There was never any doubt, my dear fiancée."
He felt like the world just flipped upside down. His mouth opened, closed, then opened again, but no words came out. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he managed a strangled, "F-Fiancée?!"
Asia gasped, clasping her hands over her mouth. "Rias-san is engaged?! That's wonderful!"
Kiba smirked. "Oh, now that's a reaction."
Koneko nodded. "Expected."
Akeno, enjoying Issei's suffering far too much, leaned in close to whisper in his ear, "Ara~ Poor Issei-kun. It seems Rias was never really on the market to begin with~."
Issei, gripping his head as if trying to hold his brain together, turned back to Rias. "P-P-President! Y-You're engaged?! Since when?! Why didn't anyone tell me?! Why didn't you tell me?!"
Rias finally pulled away from Arto, her cheeks still flushed from their kiss, but her gaze was firm as she looked at Issei. "Because it wasn't something that concerned you, Issei."
Issei staggered back as if physically struck. "B-But I thought-! I mean, I was hoping-!"
Arto sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose before stepping forward. "Hyoudou."
Issei gulped. Arto's gaze wasn't cruel, but it was piercing-like he was measuring every inch of him. Finally, after a tense silence, he spoke. "You like Rias, don't you?"
Issei tensed up but nodded. "Y-Yeah! Of course, I do! I love Rias!"
Arto hummed, then shook his head. "No, you idolize her. You see her as something to be won, a prize to claim. Love is not about possession, Hyoudou." His eyes darkened just slightly. "It's about devotion. It's about trust. It's about standing beside her, not just chasing after her."
Rias finally turned to him, her expression neither cruel nor mocking, but resolute. "Issei, you're an important part of this team. But my heart has always belonged to Arto."
Issei felt like he had been punched in the gut. He clenched his fists, wanting to protest, to argue-but deep down, he knew there was nothing he could say.
But before he could recover, another punch comes when Arto reaches his hand out to Akeno "What are you doing there, Akeno? Come here~"
Akeno giggles "Ara~I thought you only awarded the MVP..." she strides closer to him and brushes her nose against his "...and leaves my beloved Akeno feeling lonely? Baraqiel would burn me alive"
His eyes widened as he watched Akeno-a woman who was usually the one doing the teasing-soften instantly under Arto's touch. That flirty, mischievous edge never left her tone, but the affection in her voice was unmistakable.
Arto smirked at her, his tone warm and teasing. "You were always more than just MVP material, Akeno. Besides..." He leaned in just enough for their foreheads to touch. "Rias might be the heart of this peerage... but you're its thunder."
Akeno practically purred, eyes fluttering half-closed. "Mmm... Say things like that and I'll end up starting another storm~."
"Only if you promise not to aim it at me," Arto replied with a quiet laugh.
Kiba chuckled under his breath, folding his arms. "Looks like the team's secret weapon had more than one function."
Koneko blinked once. "Polygamy confirmed."
Asia tilted her head, blinking in shock. "W-Wait... you mean... Akeno-san too?!"
Akeno turned, one hand still resting gently on Arto's chest. "Ara~ That's right, Asia-chan. You could say Arto is rather... open-hearted when it comes to love. But only to those who've earned a place there."
Issei's voice cracked. "YOU TOO?! Akeno-senpai?!"
Akeno offered him a wink and a finger to her lips. "Secret's out~ But really, Issei-kun, did you think my flirtation was just for fun?" She leaned in slightly. "Okay... mostly for fun. But still."
Rias sighed, though amusement flickered in her eyes. "Akeno, stop teasing him."
Asia, still trying to process everything, nervously asked, "S-So... Arto-san is with Rias-san and Akeno-san?"
As if on cue, another voice joined in. "My, my, has the secret finally been revealed?"
Stepping forward was Grayfia Lucifuge, the ever-elegant and formidable maid. She walked with her usual grace in her dazzling dress and stood close to Arto, her silver hair gleaming under the hall lights.
Issei felt a headache forming. "You're that maid!? Which means...the owner of that mysterious mansion is..." his words stuck at his mouth.
Grayfia nodded, her expression as composed as ever. "Yes, the mansion you've heard whispers about belongs to Arto. You and your friends have been annoyingly trying to figure out the owner of the place and now you know its owner, so I do hope you don't let this information out, because my master values his peaceful life with his women."
Issei slumps down "So the worst case has happened, the owner of that damn mansion, the mysterious man with the harem...is none other than Aruto...now to think Akeno and Rias are also in that harem...how could things be so unfair for me?" His mind races with an unjust frustration.
Asia comes to Grayfia "So, does everyone live there?"
Grayfia lets out a smile "Yes, Asia, we all live in that mansion with master Arto, Kiba and Koneko also live there with us, the only one who lives away sadly is Sona, her mother doesn't allow her to live with Arto even when they are meant to get married, she could only come to live in the mansion when she and Arto get married. Talking about living, have you considered the invitation?"
Asia tilts her head "What invitation, Miss Grayfia?" the head maid giggles "You know, the invitation to live in our mansion Nami asked you a few days before the Rating Game, have you considered it? We are eager to have you with us, especially Nami"
Asia's face turned pink, flustered by the unexpected offer. "I... I don't know... I mean, living with everyone sounds really nice, but... I don't want to impose."
Akeno giggled, stepping closer. "Ara~ Asia-chan, you wouldn't be imposing at all. In fact, I think you'd make a perfect addition."
Rias nodded, her expression warm. "You're one of us now, Asia. You belong with us."
Koneko, ever the blunt one, added, "It's better than living with Issei."
Issei flinched. "Oi! What's that supposed to mean?!"
"It means every word in it" a voice rings out from the back of the hall as another figure comes to the group, her long, orange hair complemented by her elegant dress, it's Nami.
When she comes to them, the first thing she does is wrap her arms around Rias and pull her into a hug "My little sister, you did so well back there, I love how you taught that chicken a good lesson. I'm so proud of you" the hug was tightened.
Rias chuckled, leaning into Nami's embrace. "Thanks, big sister. I had to make sure he learned his lesson properly."
"Wait....sister!?" Issei gasps when looking at them "Nami-senpai is Prez's...."
"Yes, I'm her adopted sister, perv, now stop staring at our breasts or I'll gouge your eyes out" Nami hisses.
Issei recoiled, frantically waving his hands in defense. "I-I wasn't staring! I was just-wait, adopted sister?! Since when?!"
Rias smirked, still wrapped in Nami's embrace. "Since recently, even so, it's like we've been sisters for our entire lives"
Nami grinned, ruffling Rias's hair affectionately. "That's right. We may not share blood, but that doesn't matter. I'll always look out for my little sister."
Rias chuckled, adjusting her now slightly messy crimson locks. "You do realize I'm not exactly little, right?"
Nami smirked. "Oh, please. I'm 10 years older than you, which makes me an obvious sister of yours, I can confidently be your aunt if the situation allows me"
"Hold on a second, 10 years older? So how could you be in the same class as Prez?" Issei asks in disbelief.
"Believe it or not, I lied about my age to go to school with my little sister and boyfriend to enjoy school life again. In fact, I have graduated university with a perfect degree and countless certificates regarding finance. But since I look so young, no one, even you noticed" Nami slowly explains.
Issei's eye twitched. "So let me get this straight... you're ten years older, a college graduate, and you've got, like, a million qualifications... and you still came back to high school... just to hang out with your sister and boyfriend?!"
Nami crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "Do you want your eyes or not?"
Issei snapped his mouth shut. "Nope. Loving my eyes. Great organs. Wouldn't change a thing."
Asia blinked innocently. "You came back to school just to be with Arto-san and Rias-san... That's... actually really sweet."
Nami shrugged playfully. "More or less. But it was fun! And besides, how else was I supposed to keep an eye on my adorable little sister and my darling Arto?"
Rias sighed with a smile. "And I love having her at school with me"
"Me too." Nami wrapped an arm around Rias's shoulders. "School life is special, and I wanted to experience it with you."
Asia, still shyly holding onto Nami's earlier words, asked, "So... what do you do with all your knowledge?"
Nami grinned. "Oh, nothing too crazy-just managing Arto's massive vault, running a business, making sure our future is secured with enough wealth to last several lifetimes. You know, casual things."
Issei almost choked. "You what?!"
Nami shrugs "You heard what I said, I am currently running a financial managing company in human realm to manage the finance of Gremory and Sitri clans' businesses here, making sure the money is well spent, brings profits and free from financial hardships. On personal side, I am managing Arto's wealth, being his representatives when investing and making sure the mansion runs financially"
Issei looked like he was about to collapse. "You're telling me that not only is Arto ridiculously strong, ridiculously smart, and surrounded by a harem of some of the most beautiful women in existence... but he's also filthy rich?!"
Nami smirked. "Beyond filthy rich, Issei. You see, while you were busy chasing after girls and complaining about unfairness, Arto was out there building magical and technological innovations, advancements and breakthroughs for the clan he serves."
She gestures to the peerage "All the training facilities this peerage has was built by him. Gremory and Sitri are thriving with his inventions and money coming to him is only natural. And since he rare he spends, it's down to me, his financial expert lover to make sure they are spent in a good way to bring even more money back"
Arto nods "Indeed, she has been doing a very good job in managing everything relates to money in the household I can excuse myself from that duty and focus more on...other stuffs"
Issei groaned, gripping his head like he was on the verge of passing out. "This... this isn't fair! It's like the gods themselves decided, 'Hey, let's just give everything to this one guy!'"
Arto chuckles "I wouldn't say that though, the knowledge I have now isn't mine alone, it belongs to others before me as well, I'm just a person who knows how it works and how to improve it. There is nothing special about me like you say, I don't have a strong Sacred Gear like you have, I'm a human living among devils, strength is barely at Rias' level and has limited life, nothing special, just a normal human with an open mind"
Issei stared at Arto like he had just grown a second head. "You call that normal?! You're out here inventing world-changing technology, running businesses, training devils stronger than most veteran warriors, and living in a mansion full of stunning women-and you're trying to tell me you're just a normal human?!"
Arto simply smiled. "Perspective is everything, Issei. I worked for what I have. Nothing was handed to me. All my innovation are"
Nami nodded. "Exactly. Do you know how many sleepless nights he's spent creating blueprints, testing magic formulas, and refining his work? While you were busy peeping at the girls' locker room, Arto was pushing past his limits to build something real."
Issei gritted his teeth. "But-but that's..."
Kiba clapped a hand on his shoulder. "Hard to accept? I get it. But maybe instead of sulking about how 'unfair' things are, you should take a page from Arto's book and start improving yourself."
Akeno smirked. "Ara~ That is a good idea. Hard work does pay off, after all."
Koneko added bluntly, "You won't get stronger by whining, perv."
Issei slumped, utterly defeated. "I feel like my whole life was just one big joke compared to his..."
Arto chuckled. "Life isn't a competition, Issei. It's about what you make of it."
Rias, still nestled against Arto's side, smiled up at him. "And he's made something truly amazing."
Issei sighed in exasperation. "Ugh... this is too much for my brain."
Asia, however, looked thoughtful. "But... if Arto is just a normal human, and he could achieve all this... then maybe..."
Grayfia nodded approvingly. "Yes, Asia. If there's one thing Master Arto proves, it's that dedication and effort can surpass natural talent."
Nami comes to her, placing a hand on Asia's shoulder "That's why we wanted you to come live with us, where you are trained and taught under the most brilliant mind this world has ever seen. We can help you make the most of your talents and Sacred Gear, and most importantly, giving you good role models to follow so that you can grow out of your nervousness and naivety to stand on your own and build your legacy"
Asia's eyes widened at Nami's words. "My... legacy?"
Nami nodded, squeezing her shoulder gently. "Yes, Asia. You have incredible potential, but you need the right guidance to bring it out. You're kind, selfless, and powerful in your own right-but if you stay sheltered, you'll never truly shine."
Rias smiled warmly. "We don't want to push you, Asia, but we do want what's best for you. And living with us would give you the chance to grow in ways you never imagined."
Akeno giggled. "Ara~ Besides, wouldn't it be nice to wake up every morning surrounded by people who care about you? Who will train you, support you, and help you become the best version of yourself?"
Asia hesitated, looking between them. "I... I do want to be stronger. I don't want to just stand on the sidelines while everyone else protects me."
Koneko crossed her arms. "Then this is your chance."
Grayfia added, "No one will force you, but opportunities like this don't come often."
Asia took a deep breath. The thought of leaving Issei's house felt... strange. But the idea of being trained by Arto, of living with Rias and the others in an environment where she could truly grow-it was tempting.
Finally, she looked up at Nami, determination shining in her emerald eyes. "Alright. I'll do it."
Nami beamed. "Good choice."
Issei, who had been quietly listening, suddenly jumped. "Wait, wait, wait! Asia, you're moving out?!"
Asia turned to him with an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, Issei. But... this is something I need to do."
Issei's shoulders slumped. "First I find out about Arto, then Rias and Akeno, then the crazy mansion, and now Asia's leaving?! What did I do to deserve this?! What's next? Asia joining Arto's harem!?"
"Nope" a voice comes out from the hall and a beautiful raven-haired woman with golden eyes, elegant dress, 2 white horns and silky black swan wings comes to the group.
"Albedo" Arto turns to her as she quickly holds on to him lovingly "You left your beloved succubus waiting for too long you know~" she purrs and places a kiss onto his cheek, her attention then turns back to Issei who is in awe "For your question, Asia won't be joining Arto's harem, not now, not any time soon, it's been determined by the harem council. Her role will be like Koneko and Kiba, residents of the household"
Issei blinked rapidly, trying to process what he had just heard. "Harem council?!"
Akeno giggled, covering her mouth with her hand. "Ara~ Issei-kun, did you really think Arto's harem is just a chaotic mess? No, no. We're far more organized than that~"
Rias nodded, smirking. "It's a structured system, Issei. Everyone has a say, and we make sure things are fair for all members."
Albedo clung tighter to Arto, purring. "Only the worthy are accepted into our beloved's arms. If a new member is to be added, it must be discussed among us. Asia, while sweet and precious, is not being considered at this time."
Asia, still flustered by the topic, quickly waved her hands. "W-Wait! I wasn't even thinking about that! I just... I just wanted to grow stronger!"
Nami smirked, ruffling Asia's hair. "And that's exactly what you'll do, sweetheart. Don't worry, you'll be well taken care of."
Issei groaned, rubbing his temples. "This is too much... a harem council... rules... organization?! How is Arto living a fantasy life while I-"
"AUNTY!!!" A voice booms through the hall as Millicas comes running to Rias and jumps into her arms "You were so cool back there, aunty, when you slinged that destruction orbs and they turned into millions of bullets, destroying half of Riser's peerage, then...then..."
Rias laughed softly as Millicas continued to babble excitedly, his words tumbling out in a rush. She gently cradled him in her arms, her expression tender. "Slow down, young man. I'm glad you thought it was cool, but I think you're getting a bit carried away with the details." She gently tapped his nose, causing him to giggle.
Millicas grinned, looking up at her with admiration. "But it was awesome! You turned a whole forest into your own anti-air kill zone, then when you skillfully maneuvered your barrier against Riser and Ravel's combined attack...I can't help it, you were so cool, aunty!"
Rias chuckled softly, clearly touched by Millicas's enthusiasm. She kissed the top of his head. "Well, thank you, Millicas. It was all part of the plan. But I'm glad you enjoyed the show." She gently set him down, though the smile on her face never faded.
Millicas's bright eyes sparkled with admiration as he looked up at her. "You were amazing, aunty! I want to be just like you when I get older! I wanna be strong and protect everyone, just like you protect everyone in your peerage!"
Rias's heart warmed at his words. "You're already on the right path, Millicas. You've got a lot of potential, and I'm sure you'll grow up to be a wonderful person, just like your father."
"And he will be" a gentle voice comes as Sirzechs makes his appearance along with his wife Yelena Lucifuge, their hands laced into each other "You did really well today, Rias, I must admit, the way you control Power of Destruction, I'm impressed, Millicas was so excited he tried to mimic some of your skills in the gazing booth, and it caused quite some trouble"
Rias chuckled at Millicas's boundless energy, her heart swelling with pride as she gently held him in her arms. "I'm glad he was so excited," she said with a smile, glancing over at Sirzechs and Yelena as they approached. "I think it's adorable that he wanted to try to mimic my moves. Though, I can't say I'm surprised it caused a bit of trouble."
Sirzechs chuckled as well, his expression one of amusement. "He's got the spirit of a fighter, that's for sure. But maybe we'll have to teach him a bit more control before he starts causing more havoc," he teased, his tone light but affectionate.
Yelena, standing by Sirzechs's side, gave a soft smile as she looked down at Millicas with warmth in her blue eyes. "It's good to see him so inspired. The world is full of potential, and it's a good thing that he has such strong role models around him, especially you, Rias."
"Millicas, have you forgotten about someone?" Arto leans closer to Millicas and the boy immediately comes to hug Arto "Uncle Arto, I miss you so much" his voice gleaming with joy, Arto gently pats him on the back "It's good to see you again, Millicas, how was the training going?"
The boy eagerly answers "It's been really well, Uncle, I've been training my strength according to the regimen you gave me, I also trained ice magic with Mother Yelena, I trained to control my Power of Destruction with Father Sirzechs, and they both teach me combat skills with and without weapons. I've also learned a lot from Gran Gran Venelana and Grandpa Zeoticus, and there were always something new to learn everyday"
Arto smiled warmly at Millicas, his eyes filled with pride as the boy spoke about his training with such enthusiasm. "Sounds like you've been keeping yourself busy, Millicas. I'm impressed by all the effort you're putting into your training, still..."
"I know, Uncle, I'm still a kid, I have plenty of time ahead of me and yes, I've been enjoying my life a lot, especially when Father is with me more often, he took me and mother to a lot of fascinating places where we spent family time" Millicas replies knowingly
Arto's smile softened as he listened to Millicas speak with such innocence and joy. "That's great to hear, Millicas. You're growing up fast, but it's important to enjoy these moments with your family too. Training and power are important, but so is having these experiences and bonds that last."
Millicas nodded enthusiastically, still holding onto Arto's waist. "Yeah! I've been having so much fun, and everyone's been so nice. I want to be as strong as you and aunty Rias, but I also want to make sure I'm not rushing through everything."
Yelena, who had been quietly observing, placed a gentle hand on her son's shoulder. "He's learning well, Arto. And he's right. There's no need to rush his growth. With time, he'll become strong in his own way."
Arto glanced at Yelena, nodding in agreement. "You're right, Yelena. Every path to greatness is different, and it's not always about how fast you go, but how well you move forward."
Millicas grinned, his eyes bright with determination. "I'll be the best I can be! And when I'm older, I'll help protect everyone, just like you all do."
"That's some good determination, Millicas, now come here and let Aunty Nami cuddle you" Millicas lit up at Nami's words, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Yay! Aunty Nami cuddles are the best!" he cheered as he ran straight into her waiting arms.
Nami knelt slightly and scooped him up into a warm, tight embrace, spinning him around once before holding him close against her chest. "There's my little champ~" she cooed, nuzzling the top of his head affectionately. "You've been working so hard, you deserve all the cuddles in the world."
Millicas giggled, his voice muffled slightly in her embrace. "Hehe, I missed your hugs, Aunty Nami. They're the comfiest ever."
Nami smiled, rubbing his back gently. "Of course they are~ I use a very special type of magic: pure, unconditional love."
The others watched the scene with soft smiles-Sirzechs chuckling at how easily his son melted in Nami's arms "She blended into the family rather quickly, don't you think, Rias? 2 months with us but it's like she has been here from the start".
Rias smiled fondly, watching the way Millicas clung to Nami like a little koala. "It really does feel that way, doesn't it?" she said, her tone full of warmth. "She just... fits. Like she's always been meant to be part of this family."
Yelena nodded in agreement, her arms gently crossed. "There's something about Nami. Her energy is both commanding and nurturing. It's no wonder Millicas adores her."
Arto chuckled softly, glancing at Nami as she rocked Millicas back and forth in that soft, maternal rhythm. "She has a way of making people feel safe. Even the most hardened warriors tend to drop their guard when she's around."
Millicas peeked up from Nami's embrace, his voice sleepy from all the comfort. "Aunty Nami is the softest boss ever..."
That drew a small laugh from everyone.
Nami grinned as she kissed the boy's forehead. "Don't let that make you think I'm not strict when I need to be. But when it comes to family, cuddles and love are mandatory~"
Sirzechs sighed with a smile, his expression peaceful. "With people like her around, I feel even more at ease about Millicas's future. He's surrounded by strength, but more importantly... by love."
Yelena's steps were slow and graceful as she approached, her serene presence emanating the quiet dignity she was known for. Her gaze softened as it fell upon her younger sister, who stood beside Arto with the same poised elegance they both shared, though in subtly different shades.
"Grayfia," Yelena spoke gently, her voice touched with affection and just the faintest trace of nostalgia. "You've grown so much... and yet, you're still the little sister I remember chasing snowflakes through the halls of Lucifuge Manor."
Grayfia, ever composed, allowed a rare, delicate smile to break through her otherwise stoic expression. "And you're still the older sister who scolded me for tracking frost into the main hall."
Yelena chuckled softly, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of silver hair behind Grayfia's ear. "Only because you'd always act like it wasn't you. You were terrible at lying back then."
Arto glanced between the two with quiet interest, sensing the depth of their bond-the kind that had weathered centuries of shared history, duty, and sacrifice.
Yelena's gaze flicked briefly to Arto, then back to Grayfia. "You look happy. It's subtle, but I can see it. You've chosen the right man."
Grayfia's cheeks colored ever so slightly at Yelena's words, but her gaze remained steady as she responded with a soft, "Yes... I have." Her voice was gentle-softer than most had ever heard it-but filled with conviction. "With Arto, I've found a place where I'm not just a maid or a symbol. I'm... me."
Yelena's eyes warmed further, pride shining in them. "That's all I ever wanted for you, Fia. Still, I can't help but wonder about your life in a harem, how have things been?"
Grayfia paused for a moment, her expression unreadable-composed as always, yet there was a flicker of emotion in her eyes. She glanced briefly at Arto, then at the women around her-Rias, Akeno, Nami, and Albedo-before answering her sister with quiet honesty.
"I arrived in the harem when the harem council had already been formed and operated, so finding my place in the household wasn't that hard. The women were really helpful, Rias, Akeno, Sona, Albedo, Nami, and Robin assisted a lot in adjusting in, and now I've found my unique role in the household and in Arto's heart"
Yelena listened with a quiet intensity, her fingers gently interlaced before her. As Grayfia spoke, a sense of respect grew in her gaze-not just for her sister's strength, but for the mature, thoughtful way she approached something that many might see as complicated or even chaotic.
"I see..." Yelena murmured, eyes drifting for a moment to Arto, then back to Grayfia. "So it wasn't just about love, but community. A place where everyone has a place, where no one is lost in the crowd."
Grayfia nodded. "Exactly. It's not what I ever imagined for myself. But it's... peaceful. Harmonious. There's no competition, no hidden bitterness. Everything is handled openly, with trust and respect. We each have different bonds with Arto-but we also have bonds with each other. It feels more like a family than a harem."
Nami, who'd been quietly listening while still holding Millicas, chimed in with a soft smile, "That's the strength of what Arto built. This isn't about claiming or conquering. It's about choosing, every day, to be a part of something greater than ourselves. And we chose each other just as much as we chose him."
Albedo leaned her chin on Arto's shoulder from behind and added in her ever-sultry tone, "And we all know our places. There's no need to fight over love when love is infinite and freely given."
Yelena's lips curled into a small smile, thoughtful but pleased. "Then... I'm glad. I had my doubts, but hearing you speak, Fia, I understand now. So tell me, what is your role in your man's life"
Grayfia smiles warmly "I'm his personal caretaker, beloved head maid, and of course, his mansion manager. They come with a lot of work and dedication to ensure everything is functioning well, but Arto always makes sure I'm well appreciated."
She gently takes Arto's hand "Because he knows my work is mostly in the background which is easily to be overlooked, so he usually reminds me of how important I am to him and to my family, and that reminder is usually...privileges"
Yelena arched a curious brow, a subtle smirk playing on her lips. "Privileges?" she repeated, the word laced with a teasing edge as she folded her arms elegantly. "That sounds rather... intriguing, sister. You'll have to be more specific."
Grayfia, ever the picture of elegance, let a subtle but knowing smile graced her lips. "Where should I start?" She wonders "Right, I'm the only woman who can bath with Arto freely without permission, while others have to ask him for permission"
Grayfia, ever the picture of elegance, let a subtle but knowing smile graced her lips. "Where should I start?" She wonders "Right, I'm the only woman who can bath with Arto freely without permission, while others have to ask him"
Yelena's eyes sparkled with curiosity, and there was a mischievous glint in her gaze as she raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? I must say, I'm intrigued."
Grayfia, sensing her sister's playful tone, allowed herself to smile more freely, her usual composure softening just slightly. "Indeed. It's one of the privileges that comes with being both his closest confidant and his personal caretaker. In the mansion, Arto is usually the one who wakes up the earliest, with me right after him, and we usually spend that time together in private before others wake up and require his attention."
Her eyes get dreamy "Night is not always just me and him, he has other women to tend to, but we sometimes have some quiet moments when we were the last to go to bed, I would sit next to him as we gaze the stars together on the roof of our home or in the pool like a private date, some snacks, a few drinks and lots of love we share"
Rias gasps "So that's why you 2 sometimes arrive at the bedroom so late"
Grayfia chuckled softly at Rias's exclamation, a gentle flush creeping to her cheeks, though she didn't shy away from the question. "Yes, sometimes we lose track of time. We don't need to speak much-just being in each other's presence is enough. It's those small moments that remind me why I'm so devoted to him."
Yelena watched her sister with an approving smile, her earlier teasing replaced by genuine warmth. "That sounds lovely, Fia. You've always been so dedicated to your duties, and it's heartwarming to hear you've found such peaceful and meaningful moments amidst everything."
Grayfia chuckled softly at Rias's exclamation, a gentle flush creeping to her cheeks, though she didn't shy away from the question. "Yes, sometimes we lose track of time. We don't need to speak much-just being in each other's presence is enough. It's those small moments that remind me why I'm so devoted to him."
Yelena watched her sister with an approving smile, her earlier teasing replaced by genuine warmth. "That sounds lovely, Fia. You've always been so dedicated to your duties, and it's heartwarming to hear you've found such peaceful and meaningful moments amidst everything."
Nami, not one to miss an opportunity for fun, leaned in with a teasing smirk. "I didn't realize the head maid was such a romantic at heart, you've kept that hidden well, Grayfia."
Grayfia's smile deepened, her eyes softening even more. "I suppose I've kept it hidden for the right reasons. I'm not one to display affection so openly, but with him, it feels natural."
Akeno chimes in "That's only half of the special treatment, you should know what kind of authority the head maid has in the mansion." with a giggle.
"Yeah, she is the rule, calling her a maid is an understatement, she is like a queen, and the mansion is her kingdom, whatever she said, goes" Nami follows.
Rias adds "Like whoever who wants to live in the mansion has to go through first Arto, then Grayfia and lastly the rest of the harem with 3 approvals to get the permission"
Yelena raised an impressed brow, folding her arms as she glanced toward her younger sister. "So not just a caretaker and lover, but a queen in all but title? My, my, Fia... you've certainly climbed the ranks since your days in the Lucifuge Manor."
Grayfia gave a refined, almost teasing tilt of her head, the slightest glimmer of pride flickering in her crimson eyes. "I merely ensure order... and protect our sanctuary. It's not about power, it's about harmony. Every member in our home brings something irreplaceable, and I take it upon myself to preserve that balance."
Arto chuckled under his breath. "She's being modest. The truth is, Grayfia holds the household together. I may be the master of the mansion, but even I defer to her judgment when it comes to how things should run."
Akeno giggled again, nudging Rias. "Remember when Robin wanted to rearrange the kitchen without asking? Grayfia had the blueprints pulled, presented three logistical reasons against it, and somehow convinced Robin to apologize and offer to clean for a week."
Rias grinned. "And Robin actually did it. To think of someone who could beat Robin is a debate besides Arto, that's a rare sight to see."
Nami chimed in from the side, still cradling a snoozing Millicas in her arms. "She might not raise her voice or flex her power like some of us, but everyone knows-if Grayfia says no, it's over. You could bring a dragon to plead your case, and she'd still shut it down with a bow and a polite 'declined.'"
Yelena laughed softly, shaking her head. "You've definitely earned your respect, Fia. I'm impressed. And I must say, it's comforting to know that Arto's home is not only filled with love, but with structure and grace as well."
Grayfia bowed her head gently, the picture of composed humility. "It is my pride and privilege, sister. I'll be his Queen in the future when he becomes a devil..."
Yelena's eyes sharpen when she hears 'Queen' "Queen in Arto's peerage, you say? Which means..." she lets out a predatory smile. Grayfia replies with no less taunting smirk "...yes, sister, I'm going for that title of Strongest Queen Piece"
A hush fell over the group, a mix of tension and amused curiosity brewing in the air.
Yelena's eyes sparkled-not with anger, but with the thrill of an unspoken challenge. Her lips curled into a slow, foxlike smile, the kind that only surfaced when her pride as a warrior-and as a Queen Piece-was being prodded. "Is that so?" she said in a voice like velvet laced with steel. "I knew the day would come when someone tried to take that title. I just never expected it to be you, Fia."
Grayfia, standing tall beside Arto, gave her older sister an elegant shrug, her composed expression not faltering for a moment. "Why wouldn't it be me? I've spent centuries honing my magic, refining my tactics, managing battle logistics, and now... I have someone worth becoming even stronger for." She glanced at Arto, her fingers lacing into his for just a second before returning to her sister. "If I'm going to be his Queen, I must become the Queen."
Rias watched the exchange with fascination, while Akeno was practically humming with excitement. "Ara~ Is it just me, or is this starting to sound like a Lucifuge family duel in the making?"
Nami leaned in, whispering with a grin to Arto, "If they start throwing spells, I'm placing bets. Ten gold pieces on Grayfia."
Millicas in Nami's arms also makes a bet "Ten gold pieces for Mommy Yelena"
Arto chuckled quietly, amused by how quickly the energy shifted from familial warmth to a high-stakes magical rivalry. "It's always like this with Lucifuge women," he said under his breath, watching the subtle shift in the air-the way Grayfia's aura sharpened like a blade, and Yelena's crackled with icy finesse.
Sirzechs, standing calmly beside Yelena, gave a knowing smile. "Careful, Arto. That look in their eyes? That's the same one they had when they sparred over who got the bigger slice of cake as kids. Only now, it's laced with enough mana to level a city block."
Yelena tilted her head slightly, addressing Millicas with a soft pat on his head. "Thank you for your support, my little knight.now I have more reason to train with you instead of guiding you, I need to step up my game as well, because Grayfia has evolved in a way I didn't expect."
Millicas grinned proudly, snuggling deeper into Nami's arms as he beamed up at his mother. "I believe in you, Mommy! You'll still be the strongest!" His fists clenched in an adorably determined pose, completely unaware of how much pressure his innocent bet had just added to a millennia-old sibling rivalry.
Yelena chuckled softly, her icy poise never faltering as she glanced sideways at Grayfia. "You hear that, little sister? I can't afford to lose now. My son has staked his honor-and ten gold pieces-on me."
Grayfia smirked, brushing a strand of hair over her shoulder. "And Arto's future Queen can't afford to lose, either. Looks like we'll both be giving it everything."
"Looks like the simulation room will go through another limitation test" Arto says calmly "I'll prepare an arena for this event, for when you are both ready to fight for the crown"
Yelena tilted her head slightly, a cool glint in her eyes. "You make it sound like we're about to unleash a natural disaster, Arto."
Grayfia responded with a calm nod, her tone crisp. "That's because we are. At least a localized one."
Rias gave a mock gasp, putting a hand over her heart. "We'll need popcorn and evac plans."
Akeno added with a smirk, "And matching combat dresses. You know, for class."
Arto exhaled through his nose in amusement, already calculating the defensive reinforcements and magical stabilizers he'd need to install into the simulation room. "I'll reinforce the internal barriers, anchor the mana lattice deeper, and triple the auto-repair nodes. Should be just enough to survive one Lucifuge duel. Maybe."
Millicas looked up innocently, still clinging to Nami. "Uncle Arto, can I be the referee?"
Nami laughed gently, kissing the top of his head. "That's brave of you, little knight. But you might need a full set of defensive enchantments to survive standing between your mom and your aunt."
"I'll enchant him myself," Yelena said with a soft smile, "if he wants to be there."
Grayfia nodded in agreement. "And I'll make sure the fight remains honorable. This isn't a battle of hatred-just strength, growth, and pride."
Sirzechs chuckled again. "With how serious you two are... I almost feel like we should treat this as a Lucifuge tradition. Every few centuries, the sisters clash just to keep the family reputation sharp."
"Did I just hear 'family' and 'duel'?" Erza and Kuroka join the group from the hall of the Rating Game arena, Kuroka is playfully and sleepily clinging to Erza's back.
"What took you 2 so long?" Arto asks and Erza sighs "This cat overslept, she started sleeping from when Koneko knocked out Xuelan, not bothering to watch another minute of the Rating Game, she didn't wake up until I threatened her that I would cut off one of her tails" Erza explains.
Kuroka let out a lazy purr, clearly unfazed by Erza's threat. "Nyaa~ it was warm, comfy, and the scent of magic battles lulled me to sleep. Besides, you wouldn't really cut my tail off, would you, Erzy~?"
Erza raised an eyebrow, arms crossed. "Try me next time we're late again, and you'll find out how sharp my blades still are."
Kuroka stretched her arms with a cat-like yawn before peering curiously at the group. "So, what's this I hear about the Lucifuge sisters having a little sparring match~? Did I miss something juicy?"
Yelena turned toward her, the air around her still cool with unspoken tension. "Not just a spar. Grayfia is aiming for my title. A formal duel. When the time is right."
Kuroka's ears twitched in excitement. "Ooh~ finally! The ice queens clash. You better let me watch from the front row, nya~!"
Erza's eyes widened "That means we'll get to use sector 50: Grand Arena?" She asks in excitement, Arto nods "Beyond that, sector 50 on steroid, we'll need everything functioning to make test out the limit of the sector"
Kuroka's eyes lit up like a child promised candy. "Nyaaa~ sector 50 on steroids? That's the one with the weather manipulation system, enhanced mana diffusion, and the floating platforms, right? I've always wanted to nap on those mid-fight..."
Erza rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the hint of a grin. "Only you would think of taking a nap during a battle that could crack the dimension walls. But yes, that arena is perfect. It was designed for extreme-tier clashes, and a duel between the Lucifuge sisters certainly qualifies."
Grayfia spoke calmly, though her aura pulsed with anticipation. "The last time we used that sector, it was for a mock battle between Sirzechs and Rias. The sector, as well as the room itself went through a huge upgrade with the data we retrieved, so we can expect the same from this"
Millicas shoots up in excitement "I love that one, I still have my record of it, Father and Aunty facing each other was legendary, lucky I was witnessing from outside in, because even not even one brick of that arena remained intact"
Sirzechs lets out a content smile "Indeed, who could have thought after a year of training, you're that close to me, and it's my little sister out of all people" Rias shakes her head "That 'close' of yours is still a long way, brother, still, I'll take it as a compliment"
Arto chuckled softly, hands behind his back. "It blew out six internal mana stabilizers and temporarily fused Sector 49's gravity with Sector 32's weather simulator. We had raining chairs for a week."
Everyone burst into laughter, even Grayfia allowing a soft chuckle under her breath.
Millicas, eyes wide with awe, looked up at his parents and aunt. "Aunty, were you really going all out when you fought Father?"
Rias gave a sly smile and raised one elegant brow. "Of course I had to, he didn't fight seriously and I had a nightmare keeping up with him, still, a few burns, bruises and a hole on your wing really brought you back to the ground, huh?"
Sirzechs let out a sheepish laugh, rubbing the back of his neck as the group turned to him with varying shades of amusement. "Well... I might've underestimated how much power Rias had built up over the past year, especially her hand-to-hand combat skills. And yes, the hole in my wing was rather... humbling reminder."
Rias smirked with mock modesty, brushing a strand of crimson hair behind her ear. "It was just a clean hit. A well-timed feint followed by a pivot and an empowered kick to the side. The explosion was... dramatic."
Akeno leaned in, grinning wickedly. "Ara~ I still remember the shock on Sirzechs-sama's face. That one frame lives rent-free in my memory crystal."
Sirzechs raised both hands in surrender. "Alright, alright! I'll admit, I got cocky. But to be fair, that kick was coated in at least three layers of condensed destruction mana. And I had no idea Rias had developed that aerial feint tactic-"
"Modeled after one of Erza's lance-drop finishers," Rias added with a wink toward Erza.
Erza gave a proud nod. "She paid attention during training. I might've teared up watching her execute it so flawlessly."
Yelena looked to Grayfia, arching a brow with the ever-serene smirk of an elder sister who's seen it all. "Well, at least we know the training here isn't just for show. Let's hope your duel leaves something left for Arto to fix."
Arto shook his head with a smile. "I'll make sure the room can handle your fight so don't worry, still, watching outside in would be a better option than watching straight from the seats in the arena, I'll arrange another sector for us to watch"
Arto takes out his phone and looks through the control panel of the simulation room installed on his device "Let's see, we can use......here, sector 43, a research has just been concluded and it's now empty."
Arto presses a button on the digital panel "Selene, renovate sector 43 into a gazing booth into sector 50, with full option on convenience" Arto orders the AI of the simulation room.
A soft, melodic chime echoed from Arto's device, followed by a calm, feminine voice that seemed to reverberate gently in the air around them.
"Acknowledged. Sector 43 will be renovated into an observation and comfort suite for Sector 50. Projected completion time: 20 minutes. Activating high-speed terraforming protocols now, Master Arto."
"There we go, it's done, now let's leave all of this duel behind and mind our champions today" Arto announces.
Erza and Kuroka come to Kiba and Koneko respectively "You did really well back there, I'm so proud of you!" Erza beamed, grabbing Kiba's shoulders firmly. "Your swordplay has improved tremendously. You carried yourself like a true knight."
Kiba chuckled, rubbing the back of his head. "Coming from you, Erza, that means a lot. Still, I haven't beaten you in a duel, so I'll book sector 50 right after Lucifuge sisterly duel"
Erza's grin widened, and there was a gleam in her eyes that spoke of pure, healthy rivalry. "Now that's the spirit. Just be ready-because next time, I won't be holding back even a little." She gave him a solid pat on the back that nearly made him stagger. "And if you do manage to land a clean hit, I'll treat you to dinner. But only if."
Kiba laughed, shaking his head. "That's enough motivation. I'm holding you to it."
Meanwhile, Kuroka leaned down to Koneko, her arms lazily wrapping around the younger girl's shoulders from behind like a big, smug cat coiling around her kitten. "Nyaa~ My sweet little Shirone~ You crushed it out there. That knockout blow on Xuelan? Mmm~ it was purrrfection."
Koneko's expression remained stoic, but her ears twitched slightly at the praise. "...She was a good opponent. Strong. But her form was flawed."
Kuroka purred proudly. "Hehe~ Spoken like a true master of discipline. You're really growing into your own, little sis."
Koneko gave a faint, rare smile. "...Thanks, Onee-chan."
Issei blinks wildly before the scene "Wait, Koneko, you have a sister? Who is she?"
Koneko, still trying to pry herself free from Kuroka's affectionate grip, sighed. "She's this annoying cat clinging to me."
Kuroka pouted playfully. "Oh, come on, Shirone~! Don't be so cold to your beloved big sister~" She then turned to Issei, smirking. "And yes, little perv, I'm Kuroka, Shirone's older sister and a proud Nekoshou."
Issei gawked. "Wait, THE Kuroka?! The SS-class stray devil Kuroka?!"
Kuroka turns to him "Hey! Where did you read that information? My name has been cleansed, I'm a free cat now." she hisses
Issei immediately raised his hands in defense, eyes wide and sweating bullets. "S-Sorry! I didn't mean anything by it! I just... I read it on an old Devil Registry scroll Azazel showed me once! Honest!"
Kuroka squinted at him, tail flicking behind her. "Mmm~ Azazel, huh? That old crow always did love his files... Should've known he'd keep outdated gossip lying around." She folded her arms with a dramatic huff, then tossed her hair with a grin. "Well, it's true I used to be on the naughty list, but now I'm a proud member of Arto's household~ Clean record, comfy bed, and warm cuddles. Life is good, nya~"
Issei blinked again. "Wait... Arto's household?" He looked between Kuroka and the others, suddenly realizing just how many beautiful, powerful women were gathered around. "Does that mean...you're also in....his harem?" Kuroka blinks "I don't know" she turns to Arto like a curious cat "Am I?"
Arto chuckled, looking down at Kuroka with amusement. "Well, that depends. Do you want to be?"
Kuroka smirked, her golden eyes gleaming mischievously. She leaned in closer, tracing a finger lightly down Arto's chest. "Nyaa~ If it means I get to stay by your side forever, then maybe I should~"
Rias sighed. "Kuroka, you already live with us, sleep on his lap half the time, and act like his spoiled cat. What exactly do you think that makes you?"
Kuroka tilted her head playfully. "Hmm~ A very lucky stray that got taken in by a very kind master?"
Akeno giggled. "Ara, ara~ That's one way to put it. But still, a council meeting is in order to determine on whether Kuroka can become Arto's beloved or she will remain as his spoiled pet"
Albedo nods "I see, I'll inform the harem leader to arrange this meeting after we get home"
Issei blinks "Wait, the leader isn't here? I thought Rias is the harem's leader, considering she is his first lover"
Rias giggles "I would love that role, but there is someone who is more fitting for that responsibility, so she is the one leading us women and yes, she is not here. But you will meet her shortly"
"So she is the one Arto loves the most? Or is she the one with the best leadership?" Asia asks "Well, we picked on the one with the most leadership and maturity to maintain the order in the harem, but she also happened to be the one Arto loves the most in his harem so, yes, she has both criterias, and no, we hold no grudges against her and her role" Grayfia explains
"Because she is too worthy and too efficient for the spot, no woman has ever been able to question her role as the leader, she is the true Queen and we women have to respect that, as much as I hate to admit it" Albedo says.
Issei's eyes twitched. "Wait, even you respect her that much, Albedo? You sound like you're almost jealous."
Albedo crosses her arms "Because I am, I've always strived to be master's favorite, but I can't do anything about it when she is steps ahead of me, but I can't hate that woman either, she is just too sweet and too compassionate, empathizing, kind.....all in all, perfect, whether in beauty, wits and personality."
She sighs "That's why it's hard not to follow her, even though I'm not under her authority, I belong to my master alone, my ears only listen to his order, but time after time, she convinced me to follow her demand, frustrating, but I couldn't say she was unreasonable, her skill in debating is only second to my beloved Arto"
Issei was stunned into silence. "You're telling me... the most powerful, competitive, and jealous women in this harem all willingly submit to one person? And you don't even resent her for it?"
Rias nodded with a small smile. "Exactly. She's not just Arto's most beloved-she's our leader, the one who makes sure everything runs smoothly."
Asia tilted her head. "She must be really wonderful if everyone admires her so much..."
Albedo crossed her arms, looking conflicted for a moment before sighing. "Tch... as much as it pains me, she is. Every woman who's ever entered this household-whether they loved Arto before meeting her or not-ends up respecting her."
Kuroka giggled. "Nyahaha~ And you should see the way Arto looks at her. It's almost unfair how much he loves her~"
Issei clenched his fists. "So let me get this straight... there's a supreme harem queen out there, even above Rias, and I'm just now hearing about her?!"
Grayfia chuckled softly. "Not quite. You know her, you know that woman, Issei, you just didn't know her deeper role"
Issei's confusion deepened as he looked around, trying to figure out who this mysterious woman could possibly be. His eyes flickered between Rias, Grayfia, and the others, trying to piece the puzzle together.
"Wait... I know her?" Issei repeated, incredulity in his voice. "Then who is she?!"
Rias smiled, her usual playful teasing replacing any sense of mystery. "I'm sure it's been right under your nose the entire time, Issei. You've met her several times."
Kuroka, her grin widening, purred mischievously, "Nyaa~ Think hard, Issei. Who do you think could really keep all of us in check? Who do you think has the strength to make us follow her, even when we don't always want to? Who do you think is the role model for us to follow"
As Issei was thinking, Arto's phone vibrated, he picked it up "Hello...yes, yes, she is with me...it's ready. Okay, see you there, love you"
He turns to the group "Alright everyone, the celebrating party is ready, let us head to Gremory mansion, but first..." his eyes rest on Rias and Akeno "You 2 need to dress up, wearing battling attire to the party is cool, but..."
Rias and Akeno exchanged glances before giggling.
"Ara~ I suppose we did get a little too caught up in the aftermath of the battle," Akeno mused, brushing some dust off her sleeve.
Rias smiled. "Alright, we'll go change. We'll meet you all at the mansion."
As the two left to get dressed, Issei was still frozen, his mind stuck on Grayfia's words. I already know her...? But who-
"You need to change as well, Issei, and don't worry about that woman, you'll meet her there" Arto pats Issei on the back, snapping him out of his stream of thought "Kiba, Koneko, Asia, follow me, I have something special for you all"
Kiba, Koneko, and Asia perked up at Arto's words.
"Something special?" Kiba asked, raising an eyebrow.
Arto smirked. "Of course. It's a celebration, isn't it? You all fought well, and I think it's only fair that you take the spotlight tonight, and what could do it better than fabulous attire that could make you the center of attention."
Koneko blinked. "You mean... fancy clothes?"
Arto chuckled. "Not just fancy clothes, Koneko. The best. Designed specifically for each of you."
Asia's eyes sparkled with excitement. "W-We're getting special outfits?"
Arto nodded. "Of course. You all deserve to shine tonight."
Kiba smirked, folding his arms. "Well, I won't say no to looking my best."
Arto clasps his hands "Then it's settled, follow me, let me show you the star makers, Grayfia come with me to help them put their attires on. As for you, Albedo, Nami, Erza, and Kuroka, you can go ahead and join the ballroom, I'll be there shortly."
Albedo pouted slightly. "Ara~ You're sending me away so soon, Master?"
Arto chuckled. "You'll survive. Besides, you have a reputation to uphold as one of the most elegant women in the room. I expect nothing less than perfection when I see you again."
Albedo's golden eyes gleamed with satisfaction. "Fufu~ Very well. I shall make sure to dazzle you, my love."
Nami stretched her arms and smirked. "Alright, alright, we'll see you there. Don't take too long, or we might just start the party without you."
Kuroka playfully leaned into Arto, brushing against his arm. "Nyaa~ You'd better hurry, Master. I might just find another lap to sit on while waiting."
Erza, ever composed, crossed her arms. "We'll make sure everything is set up for your arrival."
Sirzechs turns to Nami "Dear sister, can you release my son a little, he needs to change for the event as well" he chuckles while gesturing at Millicas who is nuzzling into Nami's embrace with sleepy eyes"
Nami blinked and looked down, only to find Millicas still curled up snugly in her arms, clinging to her like a tiny dragon plush. His sleepy golden eyes blinked up at her slowly, clearly enjoying the warm comfort of her embrace more than the idea of dressing up.
"Aww... but look at him," Nami cooed, gently rocking him with a smile. "He's too cute to let go. Can't he just go like this? I'm sure no one would mind a princely pajama look."
Sirzechs chuckled again, folding his arms. "I admit, it suits him-but tonight's a formal event, and the young heir must look the part. Even if he'd rather nap his way through it."
Millicas gave a dramatic sigh against Nami's chest. "But Nami feels like a bed... and she smells like flowers and cookies..."
"...And I do not, my son?" Yelena asks Millicas playfully.
Millicas blinked sleepily at his mother's voice, then slowly turned his head toward Yelena with a tiny, mischievous smile-clearly aware he was being teased from both ends now. "...You smell like winter and battlefields, Mommy."
The group burst into laughter, with Kuroka nearly doubling over as she clutched her sides. "Nyaa~! Winter and battlefields?! I can't-this kid is brutally honest!"
Yelena smirked with a raised brow, arms crossed. "I'll take that as a compliment. But even a battlefield needs to know when to wrap up in silk and charm. Now come here, little frost knight, time to trade in your pajamas for something more fitting of House Gremory."
Millicas groaned like the fate of the world rested on his shoulders, but obediently wriggled out of Nami's arms. He gave her one last clingy hug, whispering, "Save a dance for me later?" in the most adorably serious tone possible.
Nami ruffled his hair with a giggle. "Of course, little prince. But only if you can convince your beloved uncle Arto to let you have me for the night. And remember, Millicas, I'm technically your aunt, though adopted, so don't get too romantic about this matter, alright?"
Millicas blinked up at Nami with the wide, wounded eyes of a child whose heart had just been ever-so-gently bruised. He pouted, lower lip jutting out slightly as he muttered, "I wasn't gonna kiss you or anything... I just wanted a dance..."
The whole room stifled laughter again-Akeno covering her mouth with a mischievous grin, while Erza gave a sympathetic little shake of her head. Kuroka? Already giggling behind a paw.
Sirzechs let out a sigh, grinning fondly. "This boy's going to be dangerous when he gets older."
He turned on his heel, dramatically adjusting his tiny collar like a noble preparing for a diplomatic mission. "Then I shall negotiate like a true devil prince."
Sirzechs nearly choked on laughter. "Oh no. I've raised a miniature politician."
Yelena raised an eyebrow proudly. "He learns from the best."
Millicas marched right up to Arto with a deadly serious face, looking up at him like a knight addressing his liege. "Uncle Arto. I would like to request Lady Nami's presence for one dance tonight. Just one. She said I had to ask your permission, as her guardian or... territorial wolf or something."
He folded his hands behind his back, eyes hopeful. "I promise not to step on her toes. And I'll give her back afterward. Probably."
Kuroka squealed in the background. "Nyaa~ this is too precious! Someone paint this moment!"
Albedo raised an eyebrow, arms crossed. "He's lucky he's adorable. If anyone else tried to 'borrow' Nami for the night, there'd be flames."
All eyes turned to Arto. The room held its breath.
Arto raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by the miniature prince's formality. He was trying so hard to sound serious, but the innocence in Millicas's request made it impossible not to smile.
"Well then," Arto said, crossing his arms as he glanced down at Millicas, the little devil still holding himself with an air of dignity. "I suppose that would be an acceptable request, little prince. But how are you going to explain to Kunou if she knows about you dancing with this one gorgeous lady, hmm?"
Millicas froze for a second, the color draining from his face as the weight of Arto's question hit him like a ton of bricks. His eyes darted to Nami, who was trying hard not to laugh, then back to Arto.
"Kunou..." Millicas repeated quietly, his small shoulders slumping a bit as his mind raced. "Well... I mean, I was just asking for a dance, Uncle Arto! Not like that! I-I'll just tell her it's a practice dance...yes, that's it, a practice dance with Aunty Nami for our dance together, and I'm dancing with my aunt after all, she wouldn't misunderstand it"
"I see, that's a good explanation, but you'd better be sincere about it, because women...they know everything, so don't try to lie to them, even Kunou, who is of your age, she will have one way or another to know if you're truthful or not. But if you're sincere, they will understand your action" Arto says.
Millicas nodded vigorously, his expression serious now, as if he were processing the gravity of the situation. "I-I'll make sure to be very clear! I'll tell her everything, just like that! Honest and upfront, like a true gentleman!" He then stood a little taller, trying to look more like the noble prince he aspired to be.
Arto grinned, clearly amused at how his little nephew was trying so hard to be the diplomatic, composed devil prince. "That's the spirit. Remember, little prince, honesty is always the best policy... unless you're dealing with a tricky situation, then you can rely on a little charm." He winked, leaning in as if to give some sage advice. "But that's a lesson for another time. Now go escort your lady to the ballroom, my boy"
Millicas's eyes sparkled with pride as Arto's approval settled over him like a royal mantle. He gave a noble little bow-clumsy, but endearing-and turned to Nami, offering his hand with the most gallant smile he could muster.
"Aunty Nami," he said, voice full of rehearsed formality and boyish sincerity, "may I escort you to the ballroom for our practice dance?"
Nami chuckled, placing her hand gently in his. "Why, thank you, Prince Millicas. It would be my honor."
As they began to walk side by side-Millicas taking slow, deliberate steps as if marching into a royal gala-the group watched them with amused fondness.
As they began to walk side by side-Millicas taking slow, deliberate steps as if marching into a royal gala-the group watched them with amused fondness.
Issei blinked, still trying to wrap his head around what he just witnessed. "Wait, so you're telling me that Millicas, this twelve-year-old, just pulled off a dance with Nami-senpai, and you're... okay with it? Like, really okay with it?"
Arto chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, that's pretty much the gist of it. Look, Nami likes cute things. And Millicas? He's trying to be all princely and serious, which is just adorable to her. It's harmless, really. The boy's got manners, and Nami thinks it's sweet. It's not like he's trying to steal her away from me or anything."
"But she's, like, your lover, dude!" Issei said, still incredulous. "And your nephew is dancing with her! How is this not weird?"
Arto shrugged with a grin. "If Nami hadn't been into it, I wouldn't have agreed. Besides, Millicas is family. He knows the limits. He's just playing a role, not trying to make a move on her. It's all in good fun, and everyone knows it."
Issei's jaw dropped. "Limits or not, that's still Nami-senpai! She's like... the perfect combo of elegance, danger, and affection! And that little devil just waltzes in with a bow and gets a yes!?"
Akeno leaned in with a teasing smile. "Ara~ Are you jealous, Issei? Do you want a dance with Nami too?"
"I-I mean-!" Issei flailed, blushing furiously. "Y-Yeah, okay, who wouldn't!? But I know better than to even ask! I'd probably get her heels pinned into my face for looking at her too long!"
Kuroka snickered, flicking her tail. "Nya~ You're not wrong. But Millicas is family, and a cute one at that. And Nami adores family. If anything, that little prince is already stacking points in the right places."
Erza folded her arms with a proud nod. "He acted like a true knight. Polite, sincere, even asking for permission from Arto before stepping forward. That's how a gentleman earns respect."
"Besides," Grayfia chimed in coolly, "this isn't about romance-it's about nurturing growth. Millicas wasn't trying to steal Nami. Even Nami knows that, she just loves him as a sweet nephew of hers, whatever romance she has is with the man over there" She points at Arto.
Arto smirks "Her affection can be energetic, intimate and open with lots of hugs and kisses, so it's easy to mistaken it with romantic gestures, but she knows above all else how her heart works, so you don't need to worry about her and Millicas, all you need to do now is change your attire and head to the celebration party"
As the four made their way toward the ballroom, Arto turned back to Rias, Akeno, Kiba, Koneko, Issei and Asia. "Alright, let's get you three looking like royalty."
Arto leads them to a changing room "Here it is" he snaps his fingers to summon attires that hang neatly and carefully for each of the members "A little gift from my friend, the way she got your measurements is beyond me, but what she made is undoubtedly top-notch in fashion. Grayfia, you assist the ladies, I'll handle Kiba and Issei"
Grayfia gave a small nod of acknowledgment. "Understood, Master Arto." She walked towards Rias and Akeno, her elegance never faltering. "Shall we begin?"
Rias and Akeno exchanged a playful look before nodding. "Let's see what magic your friend has woven for us."
Arto gestured for Kiba and Issei to follow him, and with a wink, he added, "Prepare to be amazed, gentlemen."
The two boys stepped into the fitting room where their outfits awaited. Kiba looked at the neatly arranged clothing and whistled in appreciation. "This... looks way too fancy for me."
Arto chuckled, snapping his fingers again. "You're a knight, Kiba. It's about time you dressed like one." He clapped his hands together and turned to Issei. "And as for you, you're in for a surprise. You've always been a bit... over-the-top in your choices. Let's see how you handle something more refined."
Kiba raised an eyebrow but let out a short laugh. "I'll trust you on this one, Arto."
Issei, still skeptical but intrigued, eyed the clothing. "I hope this isn't one of those 'look good for the moment but uncomfortable for the night' situations."
Arto grinned. "Oh, you'll be comfortable. And you'll stand out. Trust me on that."
After a few moments, the three emerged from behind screens and into the main room. Kiba, now dressed in a sleek and dark, form-fitting suit with silver accents that highlighted his knightly figure, looked completely transformed. His usual casual attire was nowhere to be found, replaced with an aura of nobility and strength.
Issei, however, was the real surprise. He stood there in a sharply tailored tuxedo, the jacket fitting him perfectly, accentuating his build in all the right ways. The deep crimson tie and black vest added a dash of boldness to his look, yet it wasn't overdone. The polished shoes completed the ensemble, giving him a refined and sophisticated air.
Arto nodded in approval. "I have to admit, you both clean up well."
Kiba couldn't help but grin, his usual cocky demeanor replaced by a bit of humility. "Guess I do look the part."
Issei, adjusting his jacket nervously, asked, "So... you think I'll make an impression tonight?"
Arto raised an eyebrow. "With that outfit? Absolutely. But it's not just the clothes, Issei. It's how you carry yourself." He turned toward the door where Grayfia, Rias, and Akeno were waiting.
The women entered the room, and Rias and Akeno were just as stunning. Rias wore an elegant gown of sapphire blue that matched her eyes perfectly. The delicate lace on the sleeves shimmered under the light, and the dress hugged her figure in all the right ways, making her seem like a princess out of a fairy tale. Akeno's dress, on the other hand, was a deep violet that complimented her seductive nature, with intricate patterns of black lace that ran along the bodice. Her dress had a high slit that revealed her shapely legs as she moved.
Issei blinked rapidly. "You two look... wow."
Kiba, too, couldn't keep his eyes from widening in awe. "Absolutely stunning."
Grayfia smiled softly, adjusting Rias's gown. "You all look exquisite. Master Arto's friend certainly knows how to choose the right designs."
Rias chuckled, giving Arto a teasing smile. "I think it's safe to say you have quite the talented circle of friends, Arto."
Arto just smiled back. "You all deserve it. But where is Asia and Koneko?"
Grayfia smiled knowingly. "They will be here shortly. Their preparations took a bit longer."
As if on cue, the doors to the dressing room opened, and out stepped Asia and Koneko.
Asia was dressed in a flowing white and gold gown that perfectly complemented her angelic aura. The dress had delicate embroidery resembling holy symbols, and a gentle shimmer followed her every movement, making her appear almost ethereal. Her golden hair was done up in a loose but elegant style, with a few strands framing her soft, innocent face.
Koneko, on the other hand, had a completely different but equally striking look. She wore a sleek black and silver dress that accentuated her petite but strong figure. The gothic-inspired design had elegant yet subtle patterns of roses and moonlight woven into the fabric. Unlike her usual stoic self, there was a faint hint of a blush on her cheeks as she adjusted her gloves, clearly a little uncomfortable with the attention she was receiving.
The room went silent for a brief moment as everyone took in their transformation.
Issei's jaw nearly hit the floor. "A-Asia?! Koneko?!"
Kiba chuckled, offering an approving nod. "You two look incredible."
Asia nervously fidgeted with the hem of her dress. "I-Is it too much? I've never worn anything like this before..."
Arto stepped forward, giving her a reassuring smile. "It's perfect. You look radiant, Asia. And Koneko... the dress suits you well."
Koneko crossed her arms, trying to act nonchalant, but her tail twitched slightly, betraying her emotions. "It's... not bad," she mumbled, avoiding eye contact.
Arto chuckles in his suit. "Now, we are all in good clothes, let's head to where the party is." He comes to Rias and Akeno and bows slightly "Would you let this humble knight escort these 2 lovely ladies?"
Rias giggled, placing her hand gracefully on Arto's outstretched arm. "Why, of course, my dear knight. It would be an honor."
Akeno smirked, taking his other arm and leaning in slightly. "Ara~ You do know how to make a lady feel special, Arto."
Arto chuckled. "It's only natural when surrounded by such beauty."
Issei grumbled under his breath. "Both Rias and Akeno, why am I not surprised?."
Arto turns back to him "Don't look at me, Issei, escort your lady" he turns his eyes to Asia who is standing shyly.
Asia blinked in surprise, her cheeks turning pink as all eyes turned toward her. "M-My lady...? Me?"
Issei gulped, rubbing the back of his head. "W-Well, uh... yeah. I mean, we did come here together, right?" He awkwardly held out his arm, looking anywhere but at Asia's face.
Asia hesitated for a moment before a soft smile spread across her lips. Gently, she placed her hand on his arm. "Th-Thank you, Issei."
Issei nearly short-circuited on the spot. "Y-Yeah! No problem!"
Kiba smirked at the scene. "A gentleman in training. Not bad, Issei." Issei shot him a glare. "Shut up, pretty boy."
The 2 of them head out, leaving Koneko and Kiba back in the room, Kiba looks at Koneko who is standing alone, he comes to her with his signature smile and knightly now "Lady Koneko, would you let this humble Knight be your escort?"
Koneko glanced up at Kiba, her usual stoic expression softened slightly by the unexpected attention. Her tail flicked behind her, and she hesitated, looking between him and the door. She had always been one to keep her distance, preferring to keep things simple and uncomplicated. But there was something about Kiba's gentle smile that made her heart flutter just a little.
"...Fine," she muttered, though her cheeks were subtly flushed. She placed her hand in his outstretched arm, her usual serious demeanor giving way to something a little more relaxed, even if only for a moment. "But don't get any ideas," she added in her usual blunt manner, though her voice carried a hint of warmth that Kiba didn't miss.
Kiba chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Wouldn't dream of it, Lady Koneko."
With that, the two of them exited the room, Koneko walking slightly ahead, her steps quick and purposeful. Kiba, ever the gentleman, stayed close beside her, a protective and steady presence at her side. They joined the rest of the group in the hallway, all of them making their way toward the ballroom where the celebration awaited.
As they entered the ballroom with Grayfia going ahead to open the door, Arto, ever the confident figure, led the way with Rias and Akeno on either arm, his presence commanding attention. The soft murmur of conversation and the sound of clinking glasses filled the air as the guests turned their eyes toward the grand entrance.
Arto's lips curled into a smile as he surveyed the room. "Ah, the party is about to begin." He turns to Rias, who is clinging to his arm "Well, my love, is it about time for the champion to make her speech before the crow, it's your victory after all
Rias smiled warmly at him. "It's going to be a night to remember, I'm sure."
Akeno, ever playful, leaned in closer to Arto. "Just remember, darling, it's not all about you tonight."
Arto chuckled. "Oh, I'm well aware. I'll just be content to watch everyone enjoy themselves."
Issei, walking nervously beside Asia, scanned the room, still processing the sheer extravagance of the event. "This is... insane," he muttered under his breath.
Asia, who was a little more relaxed in his company, smiled up at him. "It's beautiful, isn't it?"
Issei, nodding slowly, kept his gaze focused on the crowd, trying to take everything in.
As they entered the grand ballroom, the atmosphere was thick with admiration and respect. The high-ranking members of the Gremory Clan turned their attention toward the newcomers, their gazes filled with recognition and appreciation. It was a hero's welcome-one that Rias and Akeno embraced with graceful confidence, walking proudly on either side of Arto, their presence commanding the room.
Kiba followed closely behind, maintaining his usual composed and charming demeanor, offering nods of acknowledgment to those around him. Meanwhile, Koneko, though quiet and stoic as ever, exuded a quiet pride, her golden eyes scanning the room with silent intensity.
Issei, however, felt like he was completely out of place. He shifted uncomfortably, glancing at the elegantly dressed devils around him. "Do I even belong here?" The thought lingered in his mind, especially as he noticed how much attention Arto was getting.
Asia, standing beside him, clutched the fabric of her dress nervously, sensing the weight of the eyes on them. "Um... I don't think I deserve this much attention," she whispered, fidgeting slightly.
Issei gritted his teeth. "Yeah... same here. We barely did anything in the Rating Game, and now we're getting treated like VIPs."
Arto, hearing their murmurs, turned his head slightly and gave them both a reassuring smile. "You're here because you're part of this family. That alone is worth celebrating." His voice was steady, carrying an air of certainty that left no room for doubt.
Asia brightened at his words, nodding softly. Issei, while still feeling uneasy, sighed and tried to relax.
As they entered the ballroom with Grayfia going ahead to open the door, Arto, ever the confident figure, led the way with Rias and Akeno on either arm, his presence commanding attention. The soft murmur of conversation and the sound of clinking glasses filled the air as the guests turned their eyes toward the grand entrance.
Arto's lips curled into a smile as he surveyed the room. "Ah, the party is about to begin."
"Indeed, and the main characters have finally arrived" Zeoticus comes to the group with a wine glass on his hand "What you did back there, my girl, was beyond any of my expectation, how you skillfully handled Riser's peerage, I was really impressed, a victory well earned and a freedom well deserved"
Even in his unbearable joy, his voice is still laced with some sadness and regret "Sorry for putting you in such a position to fight for your freedom like this, my dearest daughter, I know I should've done better in protecting you and our clan..."
Rias's expression softened at her father's words, a mixture of appreciation and understanding in her gaze. She placed a gentle hand on his arm, her voice quiet but firm. "Father, you don't need to apologize. You did everything you could. I know the situation with our family back then, all time low, being surrounded on all sides, people being killed left and right by Phenex and their allies, Sirzechs was forced to be neutral, we could've lost it all."
Her hand tightened around her father' "I saw how desperate you were when you signed that agreement for an arranged marriage between me and Riser just to save our people...."
"But I set you up for something that you never wanted, should you be...angry at me?" Zeoticus' hand trembles slightly.
Rias never lets go of him "I used to, but when I knew the situation of our household back then, I knew what you did was the only way out to secure not just our clan, but our people. Not only that, I knew you fought tooth and nail to delay that marriage with every reason you could bring out, even moved me to human realm to govern Kuoh, all so that Phenex couldn't get their hands on me when I was 15."
Zeoticus's breath hitched slightly, the emotion behind his proud smile finally surfacing through the thin veil he'd been keeping up. His hand, still trembling, found its way to Rias's shoulder, giving it a soft, fatherly squeeze.
"You've grown into such a powerful and wise woman, Rias... just like your mother." His voice was thick with emotion now, the weight of years spent carrying guilt finally easing. "And today, you didn't just win back your freedom-you eased me off the guilt I thought I would have to carry for the rest of my life."
Rias leaned in and gently hugged her father, a rare moment of public vulnerability that spoke volumes. The crowd respectfully lowered their voices, the soft hum of music continuing in the background, but the emotional warmth of the exchange resonated far louder.
Behind them, Arto watched in silence, his usual relaxed demeanor giving way to a subtle look of pride and respect. Akeno, standing beside him, placed a hand gently on his back. "She needed that," she whispered.
"She earned it," Arto replied, eyes still on the father-daughter duo. "Every step of the way."
Zeoticus finally pulled back, wiping the corner of his eye with a gloved finger, recomposing himself with a noble breath. He comes to the peerage to express his appreciation "I want to thank you all, for assisting my daughter in her journey to freedom, you have my deepest thanks, especially you, Arto" Zeoticus looks at Arto like a proud father looking at his son.
Arto's eyes soften before the gaze of Zeoticus, it reminds him of a distant memory, of a vague fatherly warmth which he couldn't quite place, the warmth he has forgotten, he just looks at Rias' father until a word slips. "It's nothing, Father..." Arto's voice hitches at his throat "My...my apology, lord Zeoticus, I didn't mean..."
"You can call me father, Arto, you're a part of this family after all, I know you have some issues with that title, but if you think I'm worthy to be your father, feel free to do so, I'm more than happy to have a son like you" Zeoticus replies in a warm tone.
For a moment, time seemed to slow.
Arto stood there-still and silent-not as the warrior, the tactician, or the guardian everyone had come to rely on... but as a man caught in the crossfire of past wounds and present warmth. His gaze wavered, not from pride or discomfort, but from something deeper-something that hadn't been touched in a long, long time.
The room quieted just slightly, sensing the weight of the moment.
Rias looked up at him, her eyes soft and steady, not pushing but silently encouraging, a silent It's okay.
Arto inhaled slowly, the faintest tremor in his breath as his eyes met Zeoticus'. "Then... thank you, Father," he said again, this time clearer-more certain. The word felt foreign on his tongue, but at that moment, it didn't sting. It felt... right.
Zeoticus smiled deeply, no longer the dignified patriarch of the Gremory house, but just a father-welcoming someone he'd already long accepted into the fold. "You've already done more for Rias and this family than I could've ever asked. This is the least I can offer, a father you deserve, my boy"
A quiet hush fell over the ballroom-not awkward, not solemn, but reverent. A moment of truth and healing had unfolded before everyone's eyes, and even the most talkative among the guests found themselves respectfully silent.
Arto held Zeoticus' gaze a moment longer, and then-slowly, but with clear sincerity-he extended his hand. Zeoticus didn't hesitate. He took it, gripping it firmly before pulling Arto into a brief, but heartfelt embrace. The kind of embrace that carried generations of meaning: of loss, of redemption, of bonds reforged not through blood, but choice.
Rias watched the scene with misted eyes, her heart full. This was more than victory in battle. This was peace... not only for her, but for Arto-her Arto, who had carried so much weight on his shoulders for so long without ever asking for anything in return.
From behind them, Grayfia observed quietly, her stoic mask breaking into something softer, something knowing. She had always known that Arto's heart carried more scars than his body. Tonight, one of them, a big one, had finally begun to heal.
Arto looks around to see the mood of the party is down, he clears his throat "Ahem!" He gets the attention of the ballroom by raising his voice "Everyone, today we are here to celebrate Rias and her peerage's victory against Riser Phenex to reclaim her freedom. And I do think Lady Rias here has something to say before we start our celebration"
He extends his hand to Rias, which she happily takes and whisks her to the gallery of the ballroom, he then gracefully takes a step back so that the spotlight could be on his lover.
The room fell quiet once again, the sounds of conversations slowly dissipating as all eyes turned to Rias. Arto's gesture was perfect-he had elevated her in a way that showed his respect, his admiration, and his love, without needing to say a word. Now, it was her turn to take the stage.
Rias stood there for a moment, the weight of the moment sinking in. She could feel the warmth of Arto's hand lingering in hers, the strength of his support. But more than that, she could feel the love and respect of everyone around her-those who had fought beside her, those who had watched her grow and battle for her freedom.
She gave Arto a soft, knowing smile before turning back to the crowd. Her voice was steady, yet there was an undeniable emotion laced within it.
"Thank you, everyone, for your presence here tonight," she began, her gaze sweeping across the room. "Tonight, we celebrate not only a victory but the strength that we all shared in reaching this moment. For too long, my future, my freedom, had been something that was out of my control. But with the support of my peerage, and of course, the incredible strength and courage of Arto, I am here, free-standing beside all of you as my true self."
She paused, glancing at Arto with a look of pure gratitude before continuing, "I owe so much to all of you. And to my family, especially my father, who fought for what he believed was best for me, I can only hope that this victory is one that will heal past wounds and open the door for a future built on trust, love, and freedom."
Her eyes shone with sincerity as she spoke, her voice strong yet vulnerable. The guests, who had been quiet in respect, could feel the depth of her words.
Rias looked back at Arto, her gaze filled with love and pride. "And to Arto, the man who has given me not just strength, but love in the truest form, thank you. I am proud to stand beside you, to walk this path with you. Together, we have overcome so much, and this is just the beginning."
Arto's heart swelled at her words. He had always known Rias was strong-stronger than anyone else in this room, perhaps. But hearing her speak like this, with such vulnerability and grace, made something in him stir.
The crowd clapped, but it wasn't the applause that mattered. It was the feeling of unity that lingered in the air. Rias had reclaimed her freedom, but it was clear to all present that she wasn't just fighting for herself. She was fighting for all those she loved.
Arto stepped forward, his hand resting gently on Rias's back as he spoke softly to her. "You've done more than just reclaim your freedom, Rias. You've shown everyone here the true meaning of strength. And I will stand by you, always."
The moment held, and then the music began once again, softer this time, but filled with promise. The night had truly begun-a night of celebration, of healing, and of new beginnings.
The guests moved back into their conversations, laughter rising once more, but there was a certain energy in the air. For some, it was the promise of a new alliance; for others, it was the rekindling of old friendships, the hope that, despite everything that had happened in the past, the future would be something brighter, something better.
Akeno's violet eyes shimmered beneath the soft chandelier lights as she looked up, drawn by the sound of Rias's voice echoing from the gallery. Her best friend stood with poise, the spotlight catching her crimson hair and making it glow like a crown of fire. Every word Rias spoke carried weight, grace, and resolve-a far cry from the burdened girl she once knew, hidden beneath formal gowns and forced smiles.
Akeno's lips curled into a gentle, proud smile.
"She's truly grown... hasn't she?" she murmured softly, her voice barely audible to those around her. Her gaze never left Rias, her expression a mix of fondness and admiration.
"And you have too, my dear Akeno..." she turns back to see Baraqiel is standing behind them "...You really put up a good fight back there, Akeno, I have nothing to say." he says with eyes filled with pride and love.
Akeno's eyes soften as she comes to her father for a hug "Thank you, father, for training me. I made sure to put up everything you taught me into display, and it was spectacular"
Baraqiel wrapped his strong arms around Akeno, holding her close. "It was more than spectacular," he said, his deep voice carrying warmth. "You've grown so much, Akeno... not just in strength, but in spirit."
Akeno smiled against his shoulder. "I wanted to make you proud."
Baraqiel chuckled. "You already have." He pulled back slightly, looking down at her with rare gentleness. "And I see that you're happy... truly happy." His gaze flickered to Arto, who just came back with Rias. "I owe you my thanks, Arto, Rias, all of you, for caring for her in when I couldn't and for bringing her back to me once more"
Rias' gaze lingers to the pair of father and daughter "I love seeing my member happy, especially Akeno, she has been through a lot, and you did too, Baraqiel. I'm glad I can be a part of your mending"
Zeoticus comes to Baraqiel "Indeed, there's nothing better than seeing our children happy, and I'm glad you and Akeno found your way back to each other"
Baraqiel nodded, his usual stern expression softening as he looked at Akeno. "It took time... but I never stopped loving my daughter."
Akeno smiled, squeezing his hand. "And I will never stop being your daughter."
The moment was heartfelt, and the surrounding guests who witnessed it couldn't help but smile. Even Koneko, who wasn't one for public displays of affection, glanced away, a rare softness in her eyes.
"Getting sentimental, are we~?" Kuroka wraps her tails around Koneko and leans closer to her little sister, making Koneko almost jump through the roof
Koneko flinched, her face slightly pink as she tried to push Kuroka away. "Nee-sama, stop sneaking up on me like that..."
Kuroka giggled, resting her chin on Koneko's head. "Nyahaha~ But it's so fun watching you act all soft~"
Koneko sighed but didn't resist much, making Kuroka smirk triumphantly.
Arto, watching the scene unfold, chuckled. "Well, it wouldn't be a proper celebration without a little chaos, right?"
Baraqiel crossed his arms, glancing at Kuroka. "Speaking of chaos... I see you've been pardoned and brought into the fold."
Kuroka stretched lazily, her tails swaying. "Mmm~ Thanks to this wonderful Master of mine~" She winked at Arto. "Now, I'm living the high life and staying out of trouble... for the most part."
Baraqiel's gaze lingered on her for a moment before nodding. "As long as you keep your word."
Kuroka pouted. "You wound me, lightning old man~ I'm a good girl now, promise."
Akeno giggled. "That remains to be seen."
Before Kuroka could respond, the grand doors of the ballroom opened once more. The room, already lively, seemed to shift as the presence of the newcomer commanded attention. A regal yet gentle aura filled the space as she entered, her poise, elegance, and sheer presence enough to silence the murmurs, even when she was walking with lady Venelana, her grace could rival the matriarch of Gremory clan.
Issei turned, eyes widening in shock. "Wait... no way..."
Arto smiled knowingly, stepping forward. "Right on time..."
Rias and the rest of the harem exchanged looks before turning toward the approaching figure. She is here.
The figure stepped into the ballroom, her movements effortlessly graceful, her presence almost overwhelming yet undeniably warm. Her long, flowing hair cascaded behind her, glistening like spun silk under the golden glow of the chandeliers. Her regal gown, perfectly tailored, accentuated both her beauty and the authority she carried.
Her eyes, deep and filled with wisdom, scanned the room with calm confidence before settling on Arto, a tender smile gracing her lips.
Lady Venelana, walking beside her, exuded her own noble grace, but even she seemed content to let this woman take the spotlight.
Issei's jaw nearly hit the floor. "That's......That's......" he stutters, couldn't spill it out, breathes stuck in his throat before the familiar face
Notes:
A/N: Who could it be?
Chapter 38: The invitation
Summary:
An unexpected arrival and an unforeseen invitation
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Issei's jaw nearly hit the floor. "That's......That's......" he stutters, couldn't spill it out, breathes stuck in his throat before the familiar face "Nico...Nico...Robin-sensei?" he mutters.
The goddess teacher of Kuoh Academy, the most beautiful teacher in the whole school, the only teacher whose class never has any empty seat, the teacher whose history lessons can be carved into the mind of each student by her soothing and warm voice. Issei, like most boys of the school, have been worshipping her, and a lot of them, including him, have a crush on their teacher, especially Issei, he has a huge crush on the history teacher.
But what bugs him the most is why she is here, he never thought she got involved in supernatural affairs and is only a normal teacher, but now she is here, walking alongside Rias' mother casually, like they have known each other for a while.
"But that can't be her, right? Yeah, she can be involved in supernatural world, but she can't be that harem leader they were talking about, right?" Issei's mind starts running denial mode to make sure it won't collapse from the information.
"My dear Rias, come here, let me hug you, you did so well back there" Venelana comes to Rias to hug her. Rias smiled warmly and stepped forward into her mother's embrace. Venelana held her tightly, pride radiating from her. "My precious daughter, you fought with such grace and determination. You've truly grown."
Rias sighed contentedly in her mother's arms. "Thank you, Mother. That means a lot. But it wasn't all me, my peerage helped me a lot as well" Venelana sighs as she releases her daughter and turns to the peerage
"Thank you all for assisting Rias, I know my daughter can be a lot to handle sometimes, but you went through it all with her, I'm happy" Venelana comes to hug each member.
Each member of Rias's peerage was momentarily taken aback by Venelana's affectionate display. It wasn't often that someone of her status and grace openly showed such warmth.
Akeno, always poised, chuckled softly as she embraced Venelana in return. "Ara~ Lady Venelana, it's always a pleasure to receive your warmth."
Kiba bowed slightly before receiving his hug. "It was an honor to fight alongside Rias, Lady Venelana. We'd do it again without hesitation."
Koneko, though usually not one for emotional displays, allowed the noblewoman to hug her, mumbling softly, "Thank you... for raising such a strong King."
Asia, her eyes shining, returned the embrace eagerly. "Rias has given me a home... I'm forever grateful."
But Issei was still frozen, his brain desperately trying to process the scene before him. His beloved history teacher—Nico Robin-sensei—standing there, exuding the grace of a queen, casually taking Arto's hand as if it were the most natural thing in the world. His mouth opened and closed several times, but no words came out.
Venelana tilted her head in concern. "Issei, dear, what happened? Did you see a ghost or something?"
"I... I..." Issei pointed a shaking finger at Robin, his voice barely above a whisper. "That's... that's my history teacher..."
The elegant woman in question simply smiled, her piercing yet gentle eyes resting on him with an amused glint. "Oh my, I didn't expect that kind of reaction from you, Issei. Are you that surprised to see me here?"
Issei's mouth moved, but still, no words came out—just a garbled croak of disbelief. He blinked several times, as if that would clear the majestic image of Nico Robin-sensei standing before him like some goddess out of myth.
"I... you... but..." he stammered, pointing between Robin, Arto, and back to her again. "You're my history teacher! You give lectures on the Holy Roman Empire! You make ancient wars sound soothing! You use chalkboards and wear glasses and I took notes for you!"
Robin chuckled softly, that serene, knowing smile still resting on her lips. "And you did quite well in my class, Issei. Though I admit... you could've stopped staring at my legs and hips during the lectures."
Issei made a sound somewhere between a squeak and a dying cat, his entire face turning beet red as he staggered back like he'd just been shot through the heart by his own embarrassment.
"I–I–I wasn't—! I mean I did—but not in a creepy way! I-I respect you! You were teaching history!" he babbled, practically short-circuiting.
The room, meanwhile, had already dissolved into laughter—Akeno was full-on giggling behind a fan, Rias covered her mouth with amused dignity, and even Kiba was trying and failing to suppress a smirk.
Kiba chimes in with his usual smile, "That's a lie. You were 60% legs, 30% hips, and 10% 'Holy Roman Empire' every class, and that's just when Miss Robin was writing on the board, and when she faced the students, his priority was 100%...elsewhere."
Issei's soul visibly left his body again.
Robin smiled kindly, stepping closer—not to tease, but to gently place a hand on his shoulder. Her touch was warm, grounding. "Relax, Issei. I don't hold it against you. I was your teacher, and a little admiration is flattering—especially when it's paired with enthusiasm in class."
Issei looked up at her, eyes wide, brain still trying to reboot. "S-So... all those times I thought you were just a super charismatic normal teacher... you were actually a powerful supernatural queen?"
She gave a small nod. "Not queen, per se... but yes. I've been part of this world longer than you can imagine. I chose to teach because I like history and teaching history is a way I spread that love to you"
Issei blinked, his brain valiantly struggling to keep up. "So... wait... you didn't just tolerate teaching us? You actually liked it?"
Robin nodded with a soft chuckle. "Of course I did. Why do you think I took so much care with every lesson? I may have walked countless eras myself, but there's something special about seeing young minds light up when they finally understand the past. Even yours, Issei."
Issei, still very much emotionally and spiritually fragile, gave a weak laugh. "I-I mean... yeah, I guess I did kinda like your classes. You made the fall of Rome sound like a bedtime story. Except, you know... sexy."
He winced instantly. "I mean comforting! Not sexy! I mean, well, maybe both, but—!"
Kiba patted him sympathetically on the back. "Just stop digging, man."
He let out a deep breath, shaking his head. "O-Okay..." He turned back to Robin, his mind still struggling to keep up. "Sensei... you're seriously involved in all of this?"
Robin simply smiled. "Yes, Issei. I always have been. I just never needed to reveal it—until now."
Issei gulped again, but his curiosity was outweighing his shock. He clenched his fists, taking a deep breath. "Alright... So, you serve Gremory clan as well? If so, what role do you play in the clan"
Robin's amused expression didn't waver. She glanced at Arto, who gave her an approving nod, then turned back to Issei. "A fair question, and since there are only clansmen here," she said softly.
She took a step closer, her presence both gentle and commanding. "I am not just a history teacher at Kuoh Academy, Issei. That much should be obvious by now."
She paused for a moment, letting the weight of her next whisper sink in. "I am Nico Robin, Gremory's All Seeing Eye, the intel master of the clan"
The room seemed to still, as if the air itself paused to absorb the gravity of her words.
Issei blinked. "Gremory's... All Seeing Eye?" he repeated, voice hushed with awe and disbelief.
Robin gave a graceful nod, her posture straightening with a quiet pride. "Yes. I've been with the Gremory family for a while, before I ever stepped foot in Kuoh Academy. My role is... not one that requires brute strength, but rather insight, knowledge, and strategy."
Akeno's eyes twinkled with a mix of surprise and admiration. "So all those times you seemed to know exactly what was going on, what someone needed, or what would happen next... it wasn't just teacher's intuition?"
Robin smiled, sly and serene. "Teacher's intuition is a part of it. But more accurately... I see. I watch. I listen. And when needed, I act."
Her eyes flicked to Rias, who nodded in acknowledgment, her expression proud. "She's right. Robin is invaluable to the Gremory clan. Her knowledge goes beyond just history—she's the reason our secrets have stayed protected and rival's secrets are being exploited. She's... a valuable ally."
Issei felt like the room was spinning. Robin was not just a teacher but someone who had been at the heart of the Gremory clan's operations, monitoring events, keeping track of their movements, and providing critical intelligence whenever needed. He could barely wrap his head around it.
"But... how?" Issei finally managed to ask, his voice shaky. "How did you come to serve Gremory?" Robin smiles brightly and takes Arto's hand casually
"This man was the reason why I'm serving Gremory clan, because he himself is working for the clan, so it's only natural for me to play my part. Gremory provides me with top-notch protection while Arto gives me all the facilities for my work. But most importantly..."
She leans closer to him "...I was provided with a man who matches me in every way I can think of" "Yeah, you 2 were like made for each other, 2 workaholics who cares little about themselves, 2 minds that constantly fight for dominant, 2 persons that fits exactly the other's ideal" Nami voices as she comes down to them with Sona walking with her.
"Nami, Sona" Arto greets them as they join the group and each takes turns to share a kiss with Arto. But Issei has no mind to pay for this, he is trying to process what he just heard. His beloved teacher, the mysterious and intelligent Nico Robin, was not just a part of the Gremory clan—she was deeply tied to it through Arto. And judging by the way she spoke about him, their relationship wasn't just professional.
Sona adjusted her glasses as she stepped beside Nami, casting a curious glance at the dynamic couple in front of her. "I've always found it fascinating," she said, her tone analytical as ever. "Two people who function like well-oiled machines when separated... but become something far more powerful together. The synergy between Robin-sensei and Arto is something I doubt even I could quantify."
Robin chuckled at that, squeezing Arto's hand gently. "It's not about numbers, Sona. It's about trust. Arto's the only one who ever truly challenged me—not just intellectually, but emotionally. In him, I found an equal. In Gremory... I found a home."
Nami smirked and folded her arms, leaning slightly into Sona's side like the best friend she was. "It's cute, really. Watching two emotionally constipated geniuses fall in love through spreadsheets and intel files. Romantic in a weird 'classified documents and coffee at 3 a.m.' kind of way."
Rias and Akeno both giggled knowingly at the way Nami's voice turned teasing, while Sona just rolled her eyes. "See? That's exactly what I mean," she said, crossing her arms. "You two are like two fitting puzzle pieces. They compensate the other perfectly"
Issei looked between Robin and Arto, his confusion giving way to curiosity. "So wait... you're saying you guys are, like, together? As in... dating? A couple?"
Robin let out a soft chuckle, her fingers lacing with Arto's. "Issei, did you really think a woman like me would settle for just anyone?" Her tone was playful, but there was an undeniable fondness in her eyes.
Arto grinned. "She means yes."
Issei felt his brain short-circuit for the second time that evening. "Wha—?! But—but you're my teacher! And you're with Arto?! And you've been a part of this world the whole time?! And—and—"
"You are okay with dating your student?" Issei asks while pointing at Arto "What? Don't tell me you haven't dreamed about doing so yourself, I'm sure plenty of the boys at school dream of that as well." Robin chuckles.
Issei felt his face heat up. "T-That's—! I mean—! I would never—!" He stammered, flailing his arms as his brain overloaded with the implications of what Robin just said.
Robin smirked, clearly enjoying his reaction. "Oh? Are you sure, Issei? You have spent quite a bit of time admiring me in class."
Issei's soul nearly left his body. "H-Hey! That's—!! I mean, I respect you as a teacher! I would never—"
Nami snickered, casually leaning against Robin. "Oh, come on, Issei. Be honest. Every guy at school has at least once imagined dating Robin-sensei."
Issei's face was burning at this point. He felt like he was getting roasted alive in front of everyone, and the worst part? They were right.
"W-Well—!! I mean—!!" He struggled to form words, his brain completely fried. "It's not like—I didn't—!!"
Robin giggled, the sound smooth and elegant. "Relax, Issei. I'm just teasing you." She winked, making him feel both relieved and even more flustered at the same time.
Issei takes a deep breath as he tries to process everything he has learned today, first Rias and other peerage members were insanely strong and they handled Riser with ease. Then he found the senpai he has always been envied with is in fact got involved in the supernatural world and is the one behind the success of Rias and her peerage.
Next he knew that Arto has a harem of all Issei's dream women, and ironically, his favorite teacher, who is secretly a big shot within Gremory clan, is one of them, and it seems she is the leader of this harem considering how respectful other women talk to her.
"So the leader you were talking about was..." Before he could finish his question, the door of the ballroom swings open, causing the eerie silence across the grand party, the only sound heard is the clicking of heels against the marble floor. From the entrance of the ballroom, a figure walks in which causes all the eyes to be on them.
The clicking of heels against the marble floor resonated through the suddenly hushed ballroom. All eyes turned toward the entrance, where a woman in a striking white ensemble appeared. Her attire was unlike anything else at the gathering—elegant, bold, and utterly commanding attention.
She wore a long, form-fitting gown made of shimmering white fabric, cinched to accentuate her figure. Large rosettes adorned her hip and shoulder, while a fur stole draped elegantly over her upper arms. A wide-brimmed hat, decorated with similar roses, cast a slight shadow over her features but couldn't hide the poised confidence in her posture.
Black gloves extended to her elbows, and beneath the gown's high slit, one could catch glimpses of long legs clad in sheer stockings, ending in a pair of sleek high heels. Her sharp, dark glasses added a sophisticated edge, and a delicate gold brooch—shaped like a rose—pinned the fur stole in place, gleaming under the chandelier lights.
Everything about her spoke of refined power and unshakable poise, from the way she carried herself to the subtle, knowing smile that played on her crimson lips. The room itself seemed to still be in her presence, as though time had slowed for this grand entrance.
Even Arto and Robin, who commanded plenty of attention on their own, paused mid-conversation. Robin's eyes lit up with recognition and something akin to admiration, while Arto's easygoing smile shifted into one of genuine delight. The rest of the harem—Rias, Akeno, Nami, Albedo, Kuroka, and Grayfia—each straightened, as though greeting someone of significant importance.
Issei, still reeling from the day's revelations, felt his heart pound in his chest. He didn't know who she was, but from the way everyone else reacted, it was clear she was someone in this world—someone who demanded respect without even uttering a word.
"Damn Satan, she's hot" Issei thinks to himself as his eyes were glue to the striding woman, his libido rises with every clicking sound of her heels, he can feel his mouth watering without any way to halt the saliva from escaping his mouth, and this is her face not fully displayed.
Even Asia, the ever-pure soul, couldn't take her eyes off the woman. There was something magnetic about her—something that went beyond beauty. It was like being in the presence of a queen... or a predator. "She's....so beautiful"
As she reached the center of the ballroom, the corners of her lips curved upward in a serene yet confident smile. Then, with a graceful tilt of her head, she regarded the assembled crowd—resting on Arto and his companions—before she confidently strode towards him with a smirk on her lips and all her movement calculated to capture her target's attention.
Issei stands still as he looks at the woman's face slowly reveals itself as she comes closer and when she is fully before him, he couldn't mutter another word "Too....beautiful..." His mind could only say as much, that elegant face, those smart, sharp eyes complimented by her glasses, and the aura she exudes, godly, otherworldly, his sight was blurred by her until....black, nothing left as Issei loses his conscious and falls to the floor.
Asia suffers from the same fate as her mind couldn't take this much pressure as she falls as well. But no one seems to mind them fainting as the woman holds all eyes onto her and her ethereal beauty.
Rias' eyes widen seeing the woman, she has never seen this one before, but something about her says that Rias knows this person, and they have talked to each other before.
Arto on the other hand, displays no surprise as she comes to him "Bayonetta..." he murmurs as she places a gloved hand of hers on his chest "Do you miss me, my little knight?"
The entire ballroom seemed to hold its breath. Rias' mind raced "So this is Bayonetta, she has quite the charm to her, I must admit, no wonders Arto was so absorbed, she is...alluring, dangerously alluring"
Arto, in contrast, did not flinch. He met her gaze with a small smirk of his own, his dark blue eyes filled with something unreadable. "Miss you?" he mused, tilting his head slightly. "Now that depends. Did you intend to stay away for so long?"
Bayonetta chuckled, a rich, velvety sound that sent a shiver down Issei's spine. "Oh, you wound me, darling." Her fingers, encased in the sleek black gloves, traced small circles against Arto's chest before she leaned in just a fraction closer. "A woman has her obligations, after all. But you..." Her crimson lips curled into a mischievous smile. "You were never far from my thoughts."
"Ah~So you're the Bayonetta who made my beloved run after you around Vigrid and ignored my calls?" Rias steps into the conversation. Hearing that voice, Bayonetta gracefully turns her face to the redhead "So you're the beloved Rias he loved and feared so much on the phone."
Rias narrowed her eyes slightly but kept her tone level, regal. "You—" she gestured subtly to the immaculate white ensemble and the air of drama swirling around Bayonetta, "—certainly know how to make an entrance. Theatrics suit you."
Bayonetta smirked, clearly pleased by the verbal sparring. "Well, one must give the people a show. Wouldn't you agree?" She turned her attention back to Arto, hand still resting lightly on his chest. "Though, truth be told, I didn't come just for theatrics. I came for an invitation"
She held her right hand up as the room was illuminated by the blue crystal resting on a ring on her ring finger. With an elegant twirl, an invitation card is now in her hand. She gently presses it against his chest
Arto's eyes flickered with recognition as he took the card from her hand, examining the brand name Umbra embossed in elegant, dark lettering. The weight of the invitation was unmistakable—it wasn't just any casual gathering. This was something significant.
The room remained eerily silent, everyone watching the interaction unfold. Even Robin, who rarely showed much surprise, seemed intrigued. Rias glanced at the card as well, her curiosity piqued.
"An invitation, huh?" Arto mused, twirling the card between his fingers. "You don't usually go through formalities, Bayonetta. What's so special about this one?"
Bayonetta's smirk widened, and she leaned in just a bit more, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper. "Oh, darling, everything about it is special. I wouldn't have come all this way otherwise." Her fingers trailed from his chest down his arm before she straightened, giving a playful yet knowing look.
Robin crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly. "If it's enough to bring you here personally, I take it this isn't an invitation one can simply decline?"
Bayonetta turned to her, a glimmer of amusement in her gaze. "Sharp as ever, Robin dear." She gave a small, almost theatrical sigh. "I do so love a gathering of exceptional individuals. And this time, I need a certain knight of mine to attend."
Arto's smirk didn't waver, but there was a keen glint in his eyes now. "And if I refuse?"
Bayonetta's laughter was warm yet full of mystery. "Oh, sweetheart, you won't refuse." She tapped the card lightly. "Because this isn't just an invitation—it's a summons."
A murmur spread through the onlookers. Arto smirks as he looks at the card. "Summons? For what exactly?"
Bayonetta met her gaze, unbothered by the scrutinizing tone. "Paris Fashion Week, Umbra will make its first official comeback there, you know, the fashion brand we co-own with Jeanne."
Nami lets out a smirk "So that's why you, the man of science and innovation, out of nowhere poured money into fashion, and into this Umbra specifically and exclusively, not to mention you stepped in and manage this brand yourself instead of letting me and Abyga Ltd do it... you saw more than potential, am I right?"
Bayonetta smirks to the information as she leans closer to him "So you're that seduced already, darling? I always thought your beloved financial managing firm was doing a fine job, so it was you all along? It seems my charm has made more effects than intended"
Arto chuckled, his dark blue eyes gleaming with amusement. "Seduced, huh? You give yourself too much credit, Bayonetta," he said smoothly, rolling the invitation between his fingers. "But I won't deny it—Umbra had... a certain allure."
Bayonetta's smirk widened as she tilted her head, raven-black locks brushing against her shoulders. "Flattery will get you everywhere, my dear," she purred, fingers teasingly adjusting his collar. "But tell me, was it me or the brand that won your favor?"
Arto takes her wrist and traces his thumb gently against her gloved skin "You know the answer, my witch"
"Oh my~You want me that much already, darling? First this ring you got on 1 knee to give me" she flexes her ring with a brilliant blue crystal on her ring finger "Now what you did for Umbra, desire this witch much?"
Arto's lips curled into a knowing smirk as he gently released Bayonetta's wrist, his gaze unwavering. "It's not about desire, Bayonetta," he replied with a smooth, confident tone. "It's about understanding what moves the world. You and Umbra? Both." He leaned in slightly, his breath warm against her ear as he added, "But let's be honest, it was you first, and always. The brand only followed suit."
Bayonetta let out a soft, almost imperceptible chuckle, a dark, velvety sound that filled the space between them. "Oh, darling. Flattery and business—it seems you know how to make them work together. But don't think I don't know what you're really after. You've always been more than just a man of science. You've always had a thirst for something... deeper."
Her fingers brushed over the blue crystal of her ring again, her lips curling into a smile that bordered on mischievous. "And here I thought I was the one playing games. Yet, here you are, masterfully manipulating me with your words and actions. Tell me, how many others have you led into your web like this?"
Arto's eyes glinted with something unreadable, his tone low and composed. "Only those who deserve it. And you, Bayonetta, have always known how to handle such a web. That's why we're here, isn't it?" His fingers still hovered near her hand, his touch as calculating as it was tender. "You may think you've seduced me, but the truth is—we've always been two sides of the same coin."
Her fingers curled around the edge of his jacket, tugging him a little closer. "You think you have me figured out, but you haven't seen all the cards I'm holding. Just like you haven't fully revealed yours." Her smile was a mix of playful challenge and undeniable allure.
Arto, ever the strategist, didn't flinch, his smirk as steady as ever. He understood exactly the kind of game Bayonetta was playing—and he was ready to play it. He leaned back slightly, just enough to meet her gaze with unwavering intensity. "Perhaps, but unlike you, Bayonetta, I don't need all my cards on the table to win. I'm content letting you believe you have the upper hand for now."
Bayonetta's lips parted into a smile that was both dangerous and playful. The air between them crackled with tension, the kind only two people who understood power could share. She tilted her head, studying him with a keen, almost predatory gaze.
"Such confidence," she purred, her voice dripping with a sultry amusement. "You think you can keep me on the edge of uncertainty, don't you? But don't forget, darling, you're walking on a thin line as well" She stepped back slightly, her heels clicking softly on the floor as she looked him up and down with a slow, deliberate gaze.
Arto's gaze never wavered, though a flicker of something—respect, maybe—flashed in his eyes. He knew better than anyone that Bayonetta wasn't easily manipulated. If anything, she had him just as much in her web as he had her in his. The difference was that neither would admit it outright.
"But that's the thing, Bayonetta," he said smoothly, his voice carrying the weight of certainty. "In this game, there are no rules. And the one who adapts quickest is the one who wins." His eyes lingered on hers, the unspoken challenge between them thickening the air around them.
Bayonetta laughed softly, almost as if she was enjoying every moment of their verbal sparring. "Oh, I know that all too well, darling. But be careful," she added, her voice dropping lower, more dangerous, "because in the end, even the best-laid plans can unravel when you least expect them."
She leaned in close once more, her breath warm against his ear. "And when they do, you'll find yourself tangled in a web far more complicated than the one you're weaving now."
Arto's lips twitched into a knowing smirk, a glint of amusement flashing in his dark eyes. "Let it unravel, Bayonetta. I've never been afraid of a challenge." He glanced over her shoulder at the others who had been watching with bated breath, before his gaze returned to her. "And I'm more than ready to see what happens when everything comes to an end, when one of us falters."
Bayonetta's eyes darkened with an almost predatory amusement, the corners of her lips curling upward in a way that hinted at a deeper understanding between them. She tilted her head, her smile both wicked and seductive.
"Oh, darling," she purred, her voice smooth as velvet. "You really do think you can outmaneuver me, don't you? But remember, in the end, only one can be on top. And we both know what happens to the loser"
Arto's smirk remained steady, unwavering in the face of Bayonetta's challenge. His gaze darkened slightly, an understanding passing between them as the tension continued to build.
"Oh, I'm well aware, Bayonetta," Arto replied coolly, his voice smooth, but with an edge to it that matched her own. "But I don't intend on losing. Not to you, not to anyone." He took a small step forward, his stance confident, the quiet hum of anticipation in the room growing stronger with every word.
Bayonetta chuckled softly, her laughter like the sound of silk brushing against skin. "Such confidence. I'm impressed, darling," she mused, her eyes flickering with something darker now. She looked at him as though sizing him up, as if this moment of tension and power were a battle in itself, one neither of them could back down from.
She straightened, her voice silky yet commanding, her smile still lingering, though more wicked now. "Then we shall see who's truly the one who can't be beaten, won't we, darling?" she purred, before stepping back just enough to break their close proximity, but not without leaving her mark. "I do hope you're ready for what comes next, because I never back down. And I'm sure you won't either."
She tapped the invitation in his coat pocket before turning gracefully on her heels. The crowd, still captivated, watched as she walked away, her presence lingering even after she disappeared into the grand ballroom's corridors.
When she walks across Robin, she shoots her a glance as her last words sending a challenge "Do try to keep your man, Queen"
Robin's lips curled into a knowing smirk, unbothered by Bayonetta's challenge. "Oh, sweetheart," she murmured, her voice as smooth as silk, "Arto may enjoy a good chase, but let's not forget—he always comes home."
Bayonetta paused just for a second, her smirk deepening at Robin's confident reply. Without looking back, she let out a rich, velvety laugh that sent a shiver through the room. "We'll see about that, Queen."
As she disappeared beyond the ballroom doors, the air she left behind was thick with intrigue. The lingering scent of roses and danger clung to the moment like an unspoken promise. When she left, the whole ballroom snaps out of her charm, as if time flow was given back to the place
"She made quite a statement, I must say" Robin sighs and folds her arms, clearly in deep thought. Rias tilts her head "What kind of statement? She was only here to invite Arto to her fashion show, right?" Uncertainty laced in her voice.
"You have much to learn, Rias." Grayfia raises her voice after staying silent for the whole ordeal "Bayonetta came here, got in like she owns the place, no one questioned her presence here. She comes to Arto, not even paying a single mind that we, his lovers, were here with him."
"She used her beauty and charm to the fullest, her gestures, her words and smiles, all to worm her way into master Arto's eyes, capturing his attention completely. She knows too well she suits his eyes more than any of us and she utilized it like no one could" Albedo raises her concern as well
"Yes, she placed herself in the middle of a wolves' den with sheer confidence, and a little bit of arrogance. She demanded from our man, knowing too well he would never refuse her, a summon, not an invitation, she said that out loud to assert her hold on him" Nami adds.
"So she was saying that..." Akeno gasps "Yes, 'This man is mine, I can come and take him whenever I wish, with or without your permission'" Robin states.
"And those last words to Robin are nothing more than a recognition, Bayonetta saw Robin-the Queen as her only worthy opponent among us, the only one who can keep Arto from running after her." Sona concludes the whole ordeal.
A heavy silence fell upon the group as Sona's words sank in. The realization of Bayonetta's message settled in like an unspoken challenge, one that each of them—Rias, Akeno, Nami, Grayfia, Albedo—had unwillingly acknowledged deep down.
Robin, however, merely smiled, a glint of amusement flashing behind her glasses. "Oh, she can try," she murmured, tapping a finger against her lips thoughtfully. "But claiming Arto and keeping him are two different things."
Akeno chuckled, but there was a sharp edge to her usual sultry amusement. "And what do you propose we do, Queen? Let her waltz in whenever she pleases?"
Robin shook her head. "No. But neither will we act like we're threatened by her. That's exactly what she wants—to get under our skin, to make us react, to prove that she holds more sway over him than we do." She turned to Arto, who had remained quiet, watching their discussion unfold with an entertained smirk.
"Arto," Robin called, her voice level but laced with something deeper. "Tell me, do you want to be caught by that witch?"
Arto chuckled, his eyes gleaming as he met her gaze. "It's not about catching, my love. She was just here because she had to, to repay a favor I did for her, so that we can be on equal grounds again"
Robin raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. "Equal grounds?" she echoed.
Arto nodded, still twirling the invitation between his fingers. "Bayonetta is a prideful woman, she doesn't want to be vulnerable against anyone. The way she sees it, what I did was like a blow on her pride, making her the vulnerable side against me. So she came here, pulled a stunt to flex her hold on me before you all, to make a point, that she is not vulnerable and is still in control"
Grayfia narrowed her eyes. "And what, exactly, was this favor you did for her?"
Arto smirked. "Rias might know" Everyone turns to Rias "It was that ring, right, Arto?" The Abyssgard nods "That ring was only half the favor, our trip in Vigrid was the other half, I helped her regain her memories and saved her from her father who tried to used his own daughter for his own scheme"
Robin let out a small hum, tapping her chin in thought. "So, let me get this straight," she said slowly. "You not only helped her reclaim her past but also saved her from a familial power struggle... and then gave her that ring?" Her eyes flicked to the blue gemstone glistening on Bayonetta's ring finger, even in her absence.
Arto simply smirked. "My dear, that ring isn't just any ring, that crystal is one of the Eyes of the World, specifically, the Right Eye of Light. And with Left Eye of Darkness she has already been holding. The person you saw was..."
Even Robin, usually unshakable, blinked in surprise "...a goddess, a goddess made whole by a mortal"
A heavy silence settled over the room as the weight of Arto's words sank in. Even among those accustomed to power—devils, warriors, beings of immense strength—this revelation struck differently. Robin looks at Arto, her sharp mind processing the implications. "So, what you're saying is... she wasn't whole before. She was just a fragment of what she was meant to be."
Arto shakes his head "Not quite, she was okay on her own, but when I got the Right Eye from defeating her father, it chose its new master, and that one was Bayonetta, who has the heritage of Lumen Sage from her father, so I put it on a ring to make it more dramatic and gave it to her..."
"On one knee" Rias teases, making Arto sigh "...yes, on one knee, believing it should be with the owner it chose" He continues "At first, when she put that ring on, nothing changed so I didn't think much about it. But when she came here, I realized that I might have made her into a god"
"And a goddess like her, with all her power, arrogance, and womanly pride would refuse to be the indebted, the beneath side against anyone, especially a man, she owed you her current power, and you, a mortal, was the one who made her into a goddess, so you're right, Arto..." Robin cups her chin.
"She came to reassert her dominance, to get back at you for what you did for her, to remind you, and us, that even as a goddess made by your hands, she won't kneel. Not to you, not to anyone." Grayfia completes Robin's flow of thoughts.
Arto exhaled, shaking his head with an amused smirk. "Of course she did. Bayonetta isn't the type to let anyone—especially a man—hold something over her. Even if it was an unintentional act of generosity."
Robin's eyes sharpened. "She didn't just come to remind us of her presence. She came to remind you that no matter what you gave her, she is not yours to control. She had to flip the scales, turn the debt into a show of power. And she did it flawlessly."
Grayfia nodded, her silver gaze unreadable. "That's why she called it a summon instead of an invitation. She wanted to show you that she isn't grateful—she's claiming what's hers. She took back the upper hand by making it seem like you never had control in the first place and you are all hers to command."
Albedo exhaled, arms folded. "And what better way than to waltz into your domain, capture all your attention when all your harem is present, and make it clear that she can summon you whenever she pleases and you can never refuse her demand?"
Rias let out a whistle. "Damn. That's some real womanly pride. It wasn't enough to simply acknowledge the debt—she had to tip the scales back in her favor."
Sona's pink eyes narrowed. "Then that begs the question: Is the debt repaid?"
Everyone turned to Arto.
He smirked, the blue glow in his eyes flashing with intrigue. "No," he shakes his head "she came here to get one back from the ring, this invitation card is the gateway to her second attempt in equaling the scale between us" he twirls the card slightly in his hands.
Arto then turns to the coming lady of the house, Lady Venelana Gremory "Ah, mother-in-law, I'm sure you've met Bayonetta?" The matriarch of Gremory clan comes to Arto "Oh~I love when you call me that, but yes, I've met the witch like you asked, and I must say, she and her friend Jeanne are quite adorable to be around"
Arto's eyes widened in excitement "So it's official now?" Venelana nods "Indeed, a few hours of positive negotiation and now Bayonetta is on our side" Arto comes to hug Venelana "I know I could count on you, mother-in-law, you're the best diplomat I know"
Venelana chuckled warmly, embracing Arto with the grace of a true noblewoman. "Oh, my dear son-in-law, flattery will get you everywhere." She pulled back slightly, giving him a knowing smile. "But yes, it's official. Bayonetta and Jeanne have agreed to be our allies. Still I must praise you for all the groundwork you laid prior, making it much, much easier to bargain with those 2 tough girls"
Rias turns to Nami, whispering "Talking about mom's favorite child" Nami whispers back "Tell me about it"
She then turns to Rias "Rias, I need you to help me do something...and I heard that" she says with a deathly smile. Rias tensed up slightly, letting out a nervous chuckle. "Hehe... love you, Mom~"
Venelana's warm smile didn't falter, but the sharp glint in her eyes made Rias straighten up. "Good girl. Now, as I was saying..." She turned back to Arto with a pleased expression. "I need you, Rias, to make sure the crests of our clan work well on every place Bayonetta places them. Arto has given her the first hand experience with the crests in keeping angels at bay, and she was expecting more of that"
Rias nodded, regaining her composure. "Of course, Mother. I'll personally make sure the Gremory crests are properly integrated. If Bayonetta wants to use them for protection, she'll get nothing less than perfection."
Venelana smiled approvingly. "That's my girl." Then, she turned her gaze back to Nami "And you, my beloved financial genius daughter, I've sent the papers regarding Bayonetta and Jeanne's Umbra Fashion's financial state to your office in Abyga Ltd headquarters, take some time to read it, she is your new client."
Her voice firmens "Your mission is to keep the company stable financially so that the Bayonetta and her crews can focus their work on fashion. Umbra will be another outpost of Gremory clan in human realm, so treat it with care, alright?"
Nami's expression shifted from casual to focused, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in her mother's words. She straightened her posture, the seriousness of the task ahead settling on her shoulders. "Understood, Mother. I'll make sure Umbra's finances are handled with the utmost care. We can't afford any missteps, especially not with someone as... formidable as Bayonetta involved."
Venelana's gaze softened, but her tone remained firm. "Good. I have faith in you, Nami. Their company has suffered from many on and off for years, many of their shows were attacked by angels and her enemies plenty of times, pushing it to the brink of collapse. But with their operation protected by our clan's influence, your mission is to make sure the brand thrive, and who is better in lifting businesses than you, Nami"
Nami's eyes gleamed with determination as she nodded, her usual relaxed demeanor replaced by a calculated seriousness. "I won't let you down, Mother. I'll make sure Umbra not only survives, but flourishes." She paused, her gaze flickering momentarily to Arto before returning to her mother. "With the Gremory influence backing it, we'll turn Umbra into the powerhouse it deserves to be. And Bayonetta's... presence will only amplify that."
Venelana gave her a reassuring smile. "I'm glad to hear that. Just remember, Nami, Umbra isn't just a company. It's an extension of us in human world. Treat it like one of your own projects, and everything will fall into place."
"Understood," Nami said with a small but confident smile. "I'll handle everything on my end. You can count on me."
Venelana sigh contently "As for me, I'll oversee the process of making those demonic beasts of hers behave so that they won't disturb her in important moments"
Nami's expression softened slightly as she heard her mother's words, a touch of admiration in her eyes. "I knew I could count on you for that, Mom. Bayonetta's... entourage has always been a bit unpredictable." She said, the faintest hint of a smirk curling her lips. "But with your expertise, I'm sure they'll fall right in line."
Venelana's smile was knowing, her sharp, commanding presence ever present. "Indeed. Bayonetta's... familiar companions can be difficult to manage, but nothing we can't handle. They'll learn soon enough that in this realm, they answer to us when it matters." Her tone was calm yet held a quiet authority that conveyed everything needed to know about her prowess in handling even the most unruly situations.
Robin nods "That's a lot of privileges we are giving her, so what's in this for us?" she asks. Arto comes to her and pulls her into a hug "We will have plenty. First, she is our ally, a goddess is on our side. Second, her Umbra will be an outpost for Gremory's expansion into human realm. Thirdly,..."
"...She is working closely with our clan, offering her creativity to improve the battling attires for our military forces and secret services. I've had a look at some of her and Jeanne's designs and I must say, they are promising" Zeoticus joined the conversation as he was rubbing his reddened ears.
Nami and Rias come to him "Fashion aside, what happened to you, father?" they check his ears "That's for looking at the wrong woman" Venelana cracks her hands, making Rias, Nami and Zeoticus shiver "No matter if she is a goddess or anything else, you've pledged yourself to me, and I won't accept another woman capturing your eyes"
Zeoticus' eyes widened in mild panic, his reddened ears betraying his unease. "Now, now, dear, I didn't mean any harm! I was merely—" He paused, catching sight of the sharp glint in Venelana's eyes as she cracked her hands.
Rias and Nami exchanged a glance, their earlier concern momentarily replaced by a look of amusement. They both stepped back slightly, sensing the tension in the air. "Dad, you really should know better," Rias muttered under her breath.
Zeoticus chuckled nervously, his voice laced with humor to defuse the situation. "Alright, alright, I'll stick to admiring your beauty, Venelana. No more looking at anyone else, I promise." His hands raised in mock surrender as he leaned away, still trying to cool down from the look his wife gave him.
Venelana's stern expression softened into something more playful as she placed a hand on her husband's shoulder. "Good, because I'll not tolerate any wandering eyes. Remember, you chose me, and no one else is worth the trouble." Her voice held a touch of warmth, but there was no mistaking the authority behind it.
Nami smirked as she watched the exchange, her eyes glinting with amusement. "I guess we're all learning some important lessons today, huh, Dad?"
Zeoticus shot her a playful glare but couldn't help but laugh at himself. "Yes, yes, I've learned my lesson. No wandering eyes."
Rias rolled her eyes but smiled, crossing her arms. "That's better. Now back to business, so you've decided that our soldiers should look better when going on missions?"
"Not quite, style is just a small part, the comfort and practicality are what I'm looking forward to earning, there have been many complaints about the attires throughout the years, but I've never found any good change, until those 2 witches came along with their designs, tactical, yet comfortable like casual wears"
Rias raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Tactical and comfortable? That's a rare combination. You're saying their designs can actually make our soldiers more effective, not just look good?"
Arto nodded, his expression serious now, the weight of the matter evident in his eyes. "Exactly. The issue with the current uniforms is that while they may look impressive, they're not designed with the user in mind. Comfort, flexibility, and functionality are just as important as protection. Bayonetta and Jeanne have created something that merges the best of both worlds. Their designs allow for mobility and ease of movement, which is crucial in combat situations."
Zeoticus, who had been listening closely, leaned forward with a thoughtful look on his face. "I've always wondered why we couldn't get something that combined style and practicality. Soldiers are supposed to be agile, but the current designs are stiff, uncomfortable, and don't allow for much flexibility. If what you're saying is true, this could be a game-changer."
Nami crossed her arms, looking more focused than ever. "So, we're not just getting new outfits for the sake of aesthetics, but something that improves overall performance? That sounds like it could give our forces a significant edge."
Arto smiled, clearly pleased with the direction the conversation was taking. "Exactly. And it's not just about looks. Bayonetta's designs are specifically made to withstand high-intensity battles while keeping the wearer comfortable. It's something our military has needed for years, but no one's managed to figure it out until now."
Robin, who had been silently observing, finally spoke up. "You're planning to roll out these new uniforms to our forces once Bayonetta and Jeanne finish their designs?"
Arto nodded, his eyes glowing with resolve. "Yes. Once we get the prototypes, we'll test them in real-world situations. If they hold up under pressure, we'll start distributing them across the board. I've already started the process to make the fabrics and enhancements fitting the criterias we need for each military branch, when they are done, everything can be set into motion"
Sona comes to Arto and looks at him with a raised eyebrow "Arto?" He knows exactly what she was talking about and nods "Of course, Sitri Clan will be in this as well, I've informed Lord Sora and Lady Sena about the meeting with Bayonetta and Jeanne..."
He cups her cheeks and brushes his nose against hers "...We're the closest allies, remember? How could Gremory leave out their most trusted medical and logistic force? How could I leave the clan of my fiancee unupgraded? Besides, the Fabric Lab where I'm working in to make the materials was constructed by Sitri clan's scientists and mages after all, so of course Sitri clan will gain from this, or else Serafall wouldn't be cute anymore"
Sona's cheeks flushed slightly, a rare break in her ever-composed exterior. She narrowed her eyes—though the twitch at the corner of her lips betrayed the smile she was trying to suppress. "You really are impossible sometimes," she muttered, though her voice lacked any real irritation.
"I try," Arto said with a grin, still gently brushing his nose against hers before pulling back just enough to meet her eyes. "But I'm also practical. Gremory and Sitri need to keep evolving if we want to stay ahead. And I'd never build a future without my women right in the center of it."
That earned a subtle but warm smile from Sona, who gave a small nod in return. "Then we'll help ensure the logistics side is covered. I'll assign my best analysts to oversee the resource flow, testing protocols, and supply line efficiency once production starts." She adjusted her glasses. "And yes, I'll make sure Serafall gets something cute so she doesn't throw a tantrum."
"She already tried bribing me with ice cream to get a custom battle skirt," Arto said with a sigh. "It sparkles. I said no. She pouted for forty-five minutes. And with the meeting between your family and Umbra coming, she would definitely be there to demand Bayonetta and Jeanne something for herself, and I don't think those 2 witches would decline her offer, they would only make it a little less...childish for her, but as long as it sparkles, there shouldn't be anything to worry about, and you don't need to feel embarrassed every time she appears with you in public with that 'Magical girl' outfit"
Sona let out a long-suffering sigh, the kind only a little sister could perfect after a lifetime of surviving Serafall Leviathan's... sparkling chaos. She pinched the bridge of her nose lightly, clearly torn between familial affection and professional dread.
"As long as they tone it down from her usual glitter explosions," she muttered. "Last time she showed up at the diplomatic banquet with that wand that played J-pop whenever she twirled, I almost resigned from public service."
Arto chuckled. "C'mon, you gotta admit she looks really cute in that outfit, she makes me want to stand up and pose with her. I must admit, it was quite fun dancing around with her dramatically, it freshened the thick atmosphere and somehow, distracted the other side about what we were talking about, giving us a nice edge in the negotiation.
Arto lightly cups his chin "I'm starting to think she was doing it strategically, I sensed in those sparkling glitters she exuded, there were some well-hidden spells to distract or to mess with other's minds, even if it's a tiny detail in the agreement, a few words that weren't thoroughly read, or a term erased from their minds, advantages was earned by her flamboyant trick"
Sona blinked. Then blinked again. "...Are you telling me she weaponized sparkles?"
Arto grinned. "I'm saying I wouldn't put it past her, she is a Satan for a reason, and the one who handles diplomacy and foreign affairs on top of that. Think about it: that wand of hers, the music, the over-the-top outfit, the dance breaks—all of it draws attention away from the fine print. And while everyone's focused on the glitter cannon, she's subtly rewriting the battlefield... with bubbles and confetti."
Sona stared at him, clearly appalled. "She's turned diplomacy into a magical girl performance art heist."
Rias, who had been eavesdropping with barely disguised glee, burst into laughter. "That sounds exactly like something Serafall would do. And you know what? It works. I've seen seasoned diplomats get completely thrown off their rhythm just by her entrance."
"She did get three extra trade concessions from the Norse realms without them noticing," Nami muttered thoughtfully, a spark of professional admiration flashing in her eyes. "I thought it was dumb luck. Now I'm not so sure..."
Robin narrowed her eyes, now mildly horrified. "This... this is diabolical. It's fashion-based warfare."
Arto nodded solemnly. "The sparkles are not just for show. She's hiding high-grade illusion and suggestion spells in them—light-based diversions. It's subtle, almost undetectable unless you're looking for it. Serafall's outfit might be absurd but her use of magical layering was 'frighteningly effective.'"
Sona looked like she was experiencing a full existential crisis. She slowly turned her gaze to the ceiling, as if seeking divine clarity—or possibly just a break from reality.
"...My sister is out there winning diplomatic battles with bedazzled psychological warfare." She exhaled, deadpan. "I studied international law, economic leverage, interdimensional treaties... and she brought glitter bombs to a political summit and outplayed me."
Arto smiled softly and stepped beside her. "You studied with discipline, Sona. She learned by weaponizing chaos. You both win, just in different styles."
"She twirls, Arto. She twirls and things get signed."
"Exactly," Rias chimed in, smirking. "You have to admit, it's kind of genius."
Nami leaned on her elbow, grinning now. "Honestly? I want her on every negotiating team from now on. Let Sona do the paperwork, and Serafall shows up like a living distraction spell. That's what I call a one-two punch."
Robin folded her arms, half-impressed, half-terrified. "So what you're saying is... we've all been underestimating her. She's not a chaotic sparkle-obsessed menace—she's a grandmaster of fourth-wall diplomacy."
"I'm afraid so," Arto said with a small shrug. "And now with Bayonetta and Jeanne possibly designing her next outfit... Well, let's say it's not for Serafall herself, but for Sona."
Sona blinks "What do you mean by that?"
Arto comes to Sona "Bayonetta told me that she has already got some ideas for an upgrade for Serafall from Magical Girl to Magical Queen, regal, mature, refined, powerful and still....Serafall, so that you can comfortably walk with your sister without making her feel embarrassed"
He leans closer to Sona's face "Besides, what you don't like isn't her outfit, it's the way Serafall usually overreacts around you, shows you her love in somewhat 'annoying' terms, which makes you feel embarrassed, right?"
Sona froze, caught between the rational wall she always maintained and the emotional soft spot she rarely let anyone touch. Her lips parted slightly, then closed again. A second passed. Then another.
Sona's breath hitched slightly as Arto leaned in, his voice lowering to a near-whisper. Her cheeks tinged with a faint blush, but she didn't pull away—just met his eyes with that sharp, intelligent gaze of hers.
"...You're not wrong," she said quietly, her voice more subdued than usual. "It's not the colors or the sparkles or even the ridiculous songs. It's that... she doesn't hold back. Not in front of diplomats. Not in front of soldiers. Not even in front of you all." Her eyes narrowed slightly, though not unkindly. "She clings to me like I'm still a toddler in pigtails, calling me her 'sweet lil' So-tan' in international meetings."
Arto chuckled softly, his forehead brushing gently against hers. "That's because she loves you, Sona. Unconditionally. Loudly. And maybe a little too dramatically. But it's always genuine."
Sona sighed, her features softening, the tension in her shoulders finally loosening. "I know. And it's not like I want her to stop... I just wish she didn't always do it when I'm in the middle of signing peace treaties."
Arto smiled gently, cupping her cheek again with that same soft reverence he'd shown before. "That's because she couldn't find enough time for you...and for herself. You know Serafall, she is a Satan, a ruler of Hell, the work on her shoulder is massive, more massive than most of us here. She rarely has free time, but when she does, she would come to you, Sona, her beloved little sister"
His voice softens "Since she doesn't have much time in quantity, she tends to increase the intensity and passion to make sure you're compensated and she could express as much love for you as possible. But if she spends all her free time for you, she would lack the time for herself, leading to her wearing those flashy clothes freely to serve her interest instead of doing it for hidden agenda and strategy. And there you have it, a flashy, flamboyant, childish, over loving Magical Girl sister"
Sona stood still for a moment, caught between the truth of Arto's words and the quiet ache they brought with them. Her lashes lowered as she absorbed the weight of it—not just the logic, but the heart behind it. Slowly, her fingers lifted and rested against Arto's hand on her cheek, her touch light but meaningful.
"...You always have this frustrating habit of making sense," she murmured, her voice gentler than before.
She glanced to the side, as if picturing Serafall barreling into her office in full magical girl regalia, arms open, sparkles flying, voice echoing with affection and absolutely no self-restraint. Her lips tugged into a small smile—fond, nostalgic, and yes... a little sad.
"You're right. She doesn't have the time to be anyone else's sister. Just mine. That's why she never half-loves. She throws her whole being into it when she gets the chance." Sona's gaze returned to Arto, her eyes softer than they had been all day. "And I've spent too long trying to get her to tone it down instead of just... appreciating it for what it is."
Arto smiled, that knowing, quiet smile of his—the one that said he understood her, wholly, even when she barely understood herself. "Did you notice that since when she started to have more time for you by working in time-dilated environment in simulation room, her 'love' for you has been toned down a lot more than before?"
Sona blinked, eyes widening just slightly as the realization took root. Her fingers curled a little tighter around Arto's hand as her gaze turned contemplative.
"...You're right," she said softly, almost to herself this time. "It... has changed."
She thought back—how Serafall's visits had become a little less chaotic, how the volume of her squeals had dropped just a notch, how the endless hugging had been swapped now and then for quiet lunches, shared tea, even helping with Sitri paperwork while humming magical girl theme songs under her breath.
"She still sparkles," Sona murmured, a fond smile tugging at her lips, "but now... she sparkles with purpose. Like she's trying to match my rhythm, rather than crash through it." She looked up at Arto again, eyes clearer, softer. "She's... meeting me halfway."
Arto nodded with a quiet chuckle, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "Because she finally had the time to. The time to slow down... and notice how grown-up her little sister's become. You're not the tiny So-tan anymore. You're a leader, a tactician, a woman she respects just as much as she adores."
Sona breathed in, a touch shaky but steadying as she exhaled. "And I've been pushing her away all this time because I thought she'd never change. When really... she already was."
Arto tilted his head, his voice dipping with warmth. "Love matures when it's given space. You both just needed the time—and someone to build you that time-dilation function."
Sona laughed softly, the kind of laugh that comes after holding your breath for too long. "You meddle too much."
He smiled, leaning in just enough to nudge his forehead against hers again. "You needed it."
Arto takes a step back from Sona, a wolfish grin appears on his face "Hey Sona, say something for me, something surprising will appear" Arto suggests excitedly "What crazy thing do you want me to say, Arto?" Sona looks at Arto with skeptical eyes. "Oh, nothing much, just say 'I love you', like you always do"
Sona narrowed her eyes, suspicion instantly blooming behind those sharp pink irises. "...You're definitely up to something," she said, tone flat but not unamused. Her gaze flicked down briefly—likely scanning for magical glyphs, summoning circles, or the faint shimmer of illusion magic—and then back to Arto with a raised brow.
"You're grinning, Arto," she accused with surgical precision. "Which means either something's going to explode, teleport, or sparkle when I say that."
Arto's grin widened. "Can't a man just want to hear his brilliant fiancée say those three little words?"
"You can," Sona replied dryly. "But you usually don't stand exactly five feet back with your hand behind your back when you do."
Caught red-handed—but entirely unrepentant—Arto shrugged playfully. "Okay, okay. Maybe there's a tiny surprise. Just trust me, Sona. Say it."
Sona stared at him for a long second.
Then, with a slow inhale and an exaggerated sigh, she folded her arms. "Fine. But if I end up covered in confetti, you're cleaning my office for a month." She narrowed her eyes once more. "Ready?"
Arto nodded, anticipation barely contained in his glowing eyes.
Sona lifted her chin, cleared her throat, and with all the elegance of a true Sitri, said plainly— "I love you,..." Arto quickly chimes in, mimicking Sona's voice "....SIS!" a loud voice of Sona rings out loudly from his pocket.
To the astonishment of Sona and other people in the ballroom, from the entrance of the place, Serafall was summoned. She barreled into the room with her usual dramatic flair, a blur of sparkling light and chaotic energy, as if she had been waiting just on the other side of the door for this exact moment. Her laughter echoed through the ballroom as she tackled Sona, sending the elegant Sitri heir stumbling backward into the nearest group of guests.
"SOOOOOO-TANNNNN~!" Serafall shouted joyously, her arms wrapping around Sona in a hug so tight it was borderline absurd. "You finally said it! I knew you loved meeee!"
Sona, caught off guard, tried to steady herself as she was engulfed by the embrace of her older sister. A soft, resigned sigh escaped her lips, but there was no denying the fondness in her eyes. "Serafall, not now—"
"Oh, now's exactly the time!" Serafall interrupted, lifting her sister off her feet as if she weighed nothing. "You said it, you said it!" She spun Sona around in the hug, sending a few loose papers and documents fluttering to the floor. "I knew it, I knew you'd say it if I waited long enough!"
"Serafall, please!" Sona's voice was a mix of embarrassment and exasperation, but the warmth that bloomed in her chest couldn't quite erase the fond exasperation. "Not in front of all these people! You're embarrassing me again!" Her hands grasped Serafall's shoulders, attempting to keep some dignity, though it was hard when her sister was now twirling her like a child.
The guests around them watched the spectacle with a mix of amusement and genuine admiration, some stifling chuckles at the sight of the most powerful Satan in all her glory spinning her sister around in an overtly affectionate display.
Arto, standing at the center of it all, grinned widely, clearly pleased with the outcome of his little "surprise." His laughter was lighthearted, unrepentant, and utterly mischievous. "Well, looks like I've done a good job," he commented casually, arms crossed.
Sona shot him a look that could kill, though the small smile tugging at her lips betrayed her true feelings. "Arto," she warned, a glint of mischievousness creeping into her voice. "You're going to pay for this."
Serafall, sensing the end of her sister's patience, finally released her from the hug, setting her down gently. She looked at Sona, beaming. "You really do love me, don't you, So-tan?" she asked with a grin as wide as ever.
Sona rolled her eyes but didn't resist the urge to step closer and gently pat Serafall's cheek. "I love you, Serafall. But you really need to stop making such a spectacle of it."
Serafall puffed out her chest, grinning even wider. "No promises! But I'll try to tone it down, for you! I'll go easy on the sparkles next time—maybe not so many bubbles, hmm?" She winked dramatically.
Sona sighed again, but her tone softened as she looked at her sister. "Just... try to keep it under control. We don't need a J-pop dance routine in the middle of a negotiation again."
"Ahh, I love seeing family gatherings, but still, a little formality, will you, Lord Leviathan?" Arto asks teasingly from behind Serafall. Serafall spun around dramatically at the sound of Arto's teasing voice, planting her hands on her hips in a pose that was equal parts defiant and adorable.
Her long hair shimmered like starlight under the ballroom chandeliers, and her expression was pure mischief. "Lord Leviathan?" she repeated with theatrical indignation. "Ohhh, someone's trying to be fancy now! Should I smite you with my Sparkle Beam of Bureaucratic Vengeance, Lord Arto of Sass?"
Arto chuckled, completely unfazed. "I'm simply reminding the great and glorious Serafall Leviathan that we're in a ballroom of a celebration party of my beloved Rias' victory against Riser in a Rating Game to reclaim her freedom, so I believe a little congratulation is in order, am I right?"
Serafall froze mid-pose like a cartoon caught red-handed, her wide eyes flicking toward Rias—who was standing just a few steps away, arms crossed, a knowing smirk on her lips.
"Ohhh... riiiiight," Serafall said slowly, lowering her arms with exaggerated sheepishness. "The freedom-from-creepy-arranged-marriage party. That is important."
Rias raised an eyebrow, amused. "I wouldn't mind hearing a congratulatory speech from the Leviathan herself," she teased. "Unless you're planning to glitter-bomb me instead."
"Now that's tempting," Serafall said with a mischievous grin, summoning a swirl of light-pink magical sparkles into her palm. "But... I suppose I can be serious for five minutes. Maybe four."
She cleared her throat dramatically, and with one fluid motion, produced a shimmering notecard out of thin air. "Ahem. Esteemed guests, friends, family, and dramatic witches currently styling half our army..." she gave a playful nod toward Bayonetta and Jeanne across the room. "...Today, we gather to celebrate the absolutely fabulous and fiercely-earned victory of Rias Gremory!"
A brief, sparkling fanfare played in the background—whether conjured or cued, no one could tell.
"She stood her ground, fought with heart, fire, and the spirit of a true Gremory," Serafall continued, spinning slowly like she was on a magical girl stage. "She showed the Underworld—and especially one smug pheasant named Riser—that no one puts Rias in a political marriage corner!"
The ballroom erupted in laughter and applause, with even Zeoticus covering a laugh behind his wine glass.
"And so," Serafall finished, striking a sparkly pose, "as Leviathan of the Underworld, and Big Sparkly Sis-in-Spirit to all cool girls fighting dumb traditions—Rias, you have my respect, my admiration... and five free vouchers to my gift shop! Valid for one year, subject to availability, non-transferable, and possibly glitter-infused."
Rias, smiling broadly now, clapped politely as she responded, "Thank you, Serafall. That was... honestly more formal than I expected."
"I told you I could do four minutes," Serafall winked. "Now let's get back to business, why did you call me here, mister Abyssgard?" she says in a bubbly tone "Wait, you knew it was him?" Sona blinks.
Serafall twirled once more for dramatic effect, her skirt sparkling with a shower of tiny, harmless light motes as she spun to face her sister. "Oh, please, So-tan," she said with an exaggerated pout, placing both hands over her heart. "You really think I wouldn't know when my future brother-in-law is using a recording of your voice? It's from when you yelled at me for infiltrating your bed on a Friday night 5 months, 1 weeks, 4 days, 6 hours, 29 minutes and 36 seconds ago" she announces proudly.
Sona's face went crimson in an instant, her eyes widening in a mix of horror and indignation. "Serafall!" she hissed, mortified, as a few people in the crowd paused mid-toast to try and do the math on that disturbingly specific timestamp.
Arto, meanwhile, was trying very hard—and very unsuccessfully—not to laugh. "Okay, wow," he said, grinning. "I knew your memory was scary, but down to the second?"
Serafall gave a smug little flourish, puffing her chest proudly. "As Leviathan, I must keep track of all vital intelligence," she chirped, then leaned toward Sona with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "Also, you looked so cute with that pillow in your hands, chasing me around the room while yelling, 'Get out, you embarrassment to Sitri name!'"
Sona looked like she might disintegrate on the spot. "We were in a hotel on official business—"
"—Which means I was officially making sure you got enough love!" Serafall beamed. "But back to the question!" She spun on her heel again, somehow not dizzy, her expression flicking from playful to curiously focused as she faced Arto. "Why the stunt, Mr. Abyssgard? You could've just sent a sparkle-gram if you missed me."
Arto bowed slightly, but with the kind of dramatic elegance that made it hard to tell if he was being sincere or messing with her. "Because I needed your attention about this tiny bitty matter, Lady Leviathan" he said smoothly. "And let's face it—Sona saying that line was the surest bait on the board."
Serafall chuckled, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Fair. Flawless trap. I walked straight into it, didn't I?"
"Flew," Arto corrected with a smirk. "Tackled, really."
"Semantics!" Serafall twirled again, this time into a comfortable hover above the ballroom floor. "So what's the mission, team Gremory? You've got me intrigued." Her voice took on a little more steel beneath the sugar. "Because if you've summoned me in front of this many witnesses, I'm assuming it's big."
Arto comes closer to Serafall "I assume you've already known about the coming meeting between Sitri clan and the 2 witches from Umbra Fashion in a few days to discuss the upgrade for the battling attire for the Sitri's military force?"
Serafall floated down just enough for her boots to barely kiss the marble floor, her expression shifting into something sharper—though still wrapped in sparkles and charm. "Mmmhmm," she hummed, nodding slowly. "Heard it through the magical grapevine. And by that, I mean I hacked into one of Sona's encrypted communications out of sheer curiosity and maybe a little boredom." She shot Sona a mischievous grin. "You really need to update your wards, So-tan."
Sona sighed in exhausted acceptance. "You're not supposed to admit that so casually."
"I'm a Satan," Serafall replied sweetly. "I'm contractually obligated to be chaotic when it comes to my baby sister."
Arto chuckled, but then straightened, tone softening into something more earnest. "Then you know this isn't just about tailoring armor with cute trim and better fabric." He looked her dead in the eye. "Bayonetta and Jeanne are putting their full weight behind this. The material prototypes coming out of the Fabric Lab are infused with high-tier magical conductivity, elemental resistance, and movement-focused enchantments. This is going to raise the standard of what it means to be part of Sitri's forces."
Serafall's expression shifted—less glitter, more gravitas.
"I've read their preliminary schematics," she said, arms folding under her chest as her voice dropped into her commander mode. "What they're designing isn't just attire—it's a second skin, molded for precision, designed for resilience. It's evolution, wrapped in velvet."
"And it'll reflect the Sitri clan's image," Arto added. "Efficient. Elegant. And absolutely unshakable under pressure."
Serafall looked at him for a long moment—then nodded slowly, her playful sparkle dimming into something deeper, more grounded.
"...Good. Then I'll be at that meeting. Not as the sparkly mascot everyone likes to laugh about, but as Leviathan. Because if Sitri's soldiers are getting an upgrade, I want my signature on it. Personally." She pointed at Arto with a wink. "Still want that Magical Queen outfit, though."
Arto gave a mock salute. "Custom-tailored, with your full input. Jeanne said she's already got notes on how to 'respectfully weaponize regality'. Still, it's separate business from the battling attires, so still need your consultant, opinions, and of course, payment."
Serafall gasped, clutching her chest like she'd been mortally offended. "Payment? You wound me, Arto! Are you telling me my dazzling presence and overwhelming cuteness aren't acceptable currency in this economy?"
Arto smirked. "Unfortunately, no bank I know accepts glitter and pouting as valid forms of payment. And Jeanne especially said—and I quote—'If she wants queen couture, she better be ready to pay queen coin.'"
Sona, ever the grounded counterbalance, adjusted her glasses with a sigh. "Which is a polite way of saying: no more bartering with magical girl stickers or 'limited edition sparkle jars.'"
Arto leaned in a bit with a teasing glint in his eye. "Still, you're getting a discount for the fabric made for this outfit would come from the Fabric Lab, the place you and a lot of Sitri scientists poured tons of investment into, I would only take the wage for my effort in making a fabric, which could easily handle your sparkle while maintaining the comfort in wearing, meaning you can fight, perform, act and negotiate while shining effortlessly without having your outfit being torn apart"
Serafall's eyes lit up with that distinct gleam of a child who just heard the words limited edition and sparkle-compatible battlewear in the same sentence. She pointed at Arto dramatically, her grin wide enough to rival a crescent moon.
"You sly Abyssgard, you're tempting me with combat sparkle optimization technology! That's not fair—you know my weaknesses!"
Sona groaned lightly under her breath. "He also knows your entire wardrobe's weaknesses. I've seen what happens when your frills get caught on a battlefield mana surge. It's like watching a unicorn explode."
Serafall clutched her skirt protectively. "That was one time! And it was experimental ribbon layering! You can't blame me for pushing the frontier of magical fashion science!"
Arto, holding back laughter, gave her a slow, exaggerated nod. "Of course, my Lady Leviathan. That's why we're giving you premium thread reinforcement, high-grade enchantment mesh lining, and a reactive shimmer field. All tuned to your personal magic signature. Meaning? No more midair wardrobe malfunctions when casting wide-range elemental bursts."
Serafall gasped again, though this time it was pure joy. "I can sparkle at maximum output without burning a hole in my cape?"
Arto leaned casually against the nearby table. "You could do a pirouette inside a dragon's breath and still come out glowing. All I need is your color palette preferences, sigil enhancements, and..."
He paused and wiggled his fingers in the air. "...the gold. Sparkly love doesn't fuel the loom, no matter how cute the source."
Serafall pouted, crossing her arms. "Fine. You'll get your coins. But I want a glitter-tax rebate!"
"Very well, consider it done, I'll inform our tailors about this matter before their meeting with you, so you just need to sit back and wait for the prototype to come" Arto slightly bows before Serafall.
Serafall placed both hands on her hips again, the very picture of overdramatic royalty. "Well, well! Finally, someone shows the proper respect to Queen Sparkleflare of the Underworld," she declared, giving Arto a regal nod as if she were about to knight him with a wand made of stardust and sass.
Then, with a dramatic swish of her shimmering skirt, she beamed. "I'll be waiting with bated breath—and freshly enchanted heels. Make it fabulous, Arto. And battle-ready, of course!" Serafall takes Sona's hand out of nowhere.
"Now to the more pressing matter, where we can go for our date, my little So-tan. I've done my work of the day like a good Satan I am, now all I need to complete my day after knowing my new Magical outfit is on its way is a little private time with my little sister, and Arto has nothing to say in this even if he is your fiance." Serafall's grip on Sona's hand tightens, not intending to let her go.
Sona froze mid-step like someone had just activated her internal alarm-for-impending-public-humiliation protocol. She turns to look at Arto to see him raising his hand, surrendering before Serafall's declaration, and her shoulders tensed so sharply it was almost visible through her usually composed posture.
She turned slowly—very slowly—to face Serafall, who was now bouncing on her heels like an excitable schoolgirl asking to go to the amusement park.
"I am not a snack to be scheduled," Sona said flatly. "Nor am I a plush toy you take out after finishing your paperwork."
Serafall clapped her hands together with sparkling glee. "You say that now, but you love it! I'm thinking of stargazing in the sky-garden of my palace, with imported moonberry gelato and a floating loveseat made of clouds! You bring the book, I bring the blankets!"
Still, despite her protests, there was a small, unmistakable upward twitch at the corner of her lips—the tiniest of smiles sneaking through her steely exterior.
"...You're lucky I brought my stargazing lenses," she finally muttered under her breath.
Serafall squealed in delight and wrapped her arms around Sona in a surprisingly gentle hug this time, sparkling slightly with restraint. "Best. Day. Ever." she whispered dramatically before disappearing with Sona.
"That was...quick, she came, sealed the deal and left with her sister, talking about efficiency" Rias comes to Arto with a teasing smile.
"Indeed, but don't you think you surrender your fiancee too soon to you sister-in-law, darling? I thought you were braver than that" Akeno joins the teasing as well.
Arto let out a breath that was half-laugh, half-defeated sigh, running a hand through his hair as he watched the glitter trails still faintly shimmering in the air where Serafall had just teleported away with Sona like a sparkly kidnapping whirlwind.
"Well, I value this life more than showing bravery, but let's be honest, what chance do you think I–a human have against a Satan like Serafall? She could kill me with a touch."
Rias laughed, that rich, amused kind of laugh that made it clear she was loving every second of Arto's self-preserving honesty. "Fair point. But I was kinda hoping you'd at least put up a fight. You didn't even try to keep Sona from getting sis-napped."
Arto shrugs "Nah, I'll hand her to Serafall every day of the week if she demands it. As long as it gives Sona a break from acting like she has to carry all of Hell on her shoulders."
Rias tilted her head, her smile softening just a bit. "That's... actually pretty sweet."
Arto gave a small, knowing grin. "Sona's always so composed. She's got this constant pressure to be perfect, calm, measured. But Serafall? She's chaos, pure emotion, sparkle bombs and all. And you know what? That's exactly what Sona needs now and then. Someone who pulls her out of her spreadsheets and makes her breathe."
Rias leaned against the nearby pillar, folding her arms. "You're dangerous when you start sounding wise, you know."
He smirked. "It's a side effect of dating smart women. You either level up or get left behind."
Rias chuckled at his response, clearly enjoying the banter. "I'll take your word for it. But, seriously, I'm kind of glad you're in the picture. Sona could use someone who isn't afraid to see past the cool, collected exterior she keeps up for everyone else. I don't think she gets enough credit for how much she actually holds in. And that's where you come in, huh?"
Arto leaned back slightly, his eyes taking on a more serious glint as he looked at Rias. "Someone needs to see the cracks so they don't become too deep. But yeah, Sona's strong—stronger than most realize. I just make sure she knows she doesn't have to be perfect all the time."
Rias' eyes softened. "You know, it's rare that someone understands Sona like that. It's easy to get lost in the 'Sitri genius' and forget there's a lot of pressure under it all."
Arto gave a casual shrug. "She's got a brilliant mind, but a brilliant mind needs someone to take the weight off once in a while. Even if it means getting swept up in sparkles and chaos."
Rias laughed again, shaking her head. "I'd love to see her after Serafall's done with her. Probably all sparkles and disheveled hair from the constant 'So-tan' bombardment."
"No, I think it would be just a normal stargazing session with snacks, blankets and some warm cuddles, Serafall has toned her excitement down a lot since when she had more time for Sona, she just acted...that way to show people how much she loves Sona, but when it's them alone, it's much lighter than what we saw"
Rias blinked in surprise at that, her smirk softening into something far more thoughtful. "...Really? That actually sounds... kind of beautiful."
"Still not as beautiful as you tonight, so let us mind another matter together, our dance, all Bayonetta and Serafall matter swayed us from the most important event of this celebration night, you, me and the dance we promised to share"
Rias blinked again, caught just slightly off guard by the sudden shift—but in the best way possible. Her cheeks tinted a soft red, the confident smirk giving way to something warmer, more genuine. "You're smoother than I remember," she murmured, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, eyes never leaving his.
Then, with a graceful sweep of her hand, she stepped forward, slipping her fingers into his. "Well then, Lord Arto of Sass," she teased lightly, her voice laced with affection, "let's not keep the music waiting any longer."
The crowd faded into the background as the two moved toward the dance floor, the gentle glow of chandeliers above catching in Rias' crimson hair like fire in the wind. The music shifted—something elegant, something deep—and with a confident twirl, she let herself be led into the rhythm they'd both been putting off all night.
"It seems the main couple is out, let's not waste another second, father, or should I say, my dance partner" Akeno teasingly tugs Baraqiel's arm and drags him to the dance floor.
Baraqiel blinked in surprise, clearly caught off guard by the sudden tug, but then his usually stern face softened into something rare—a smile, small but sincere. "You've grown bold, my daughter," he murmured, allowing himself to be pulled along, his thunderous aura dimming to a quiet warmth as he stepped into her pace.
Akeno turned slightly, eyes gleaming with playful mischief. "You've only yourself to blame, Father. After all, who gave me my dramatic flair and love for theatrics?" she said with a wink as they reached the dance floor.
He let out a low chuckle, the sound barely above the music. "Guilty as charged."
As the two began to dance, a curious hush swept a small part of the crowd—eyes drawn to the beautiful contrast of their presence. Akeno, graceful and radiant like flickering lightning, and Baraqiel, calm and resolute like thunder rolling just beneath the horizon. It wasn't just a father-daughter dance; it was a quiet reconciliation, a moment of shared peace and long-missed connection.
"Nya~So they are having their fun, why don't we join the fray, my beloved Shirone?" Kuroka wraps her 2 tails around Koneko, pulling her towards the dance floor.
Koneko blinked, the sudden sensation of Kuroka's soft, furry tails wrapping around her waist making her cheeks flush a delicate pink. "Y-You're being too affectionate again," she mumbled, though she made no effort to pull away.
Kuroka leaned in with a playful purr, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief. "Nyaa~ But that's how I show my love, little sister. Besides, it's a party! And you look so cute tonight, it'd be a crime if I didn't steal at least one dance."
With a huff, Koneko allowed herself to be guided—well, more like swept—onto the dance floor. "Just one," she muttered, glaring softly but with that telltale flicker of fondness she never quite managed to hide when it came to Kuroka.
The two began to move together, Kuroka surprisingly graceful as she spun her younger sister around gently, their hair and tails catching the light as the music shifted into a more whimsical tune. The older Nekoshou's movements were playful and light, a stark contrast to Koneko's small, composed steps—but somehow, the dance worked. Two sides of the same soul.
"Woahh~Uncle Arto and Aunty Rias look so beautiful together, I must join them" Millicas gasps in excitement, but quickly realizes the situation and composes himself quickly "Ahem"
He coughs slightly to clear his throat then turns to his aunt Nami, who is eagerly waiting next to him with a giggling face. "Will you give me the honor to share this dance with you, my lady?" He bows slightly and offers his small hand up to Nami.
Nami's eyes sparkled with delight as she looked down at the young but ever-so-charming Millicas. She placed a hand over her heart in mock surprise, playing along with his refined manner.
"Oh my, such gallantry," she said with a warm smile. "How could I possibly say no to such a handsome young gentleman?"
She took his small hand gently, curtsying just enough to match his theatrical tone. "It would be my honor, Lord Millicas."
Millicas beamed proudly—though his cheeks turned the faintest shade of pink—before leading her toward the dance floor with all the poise he could muster. The crowd parted slightly, amused and endeared, as the little devil prince and the financial manager took their place among the swaying dancers.
Nami's eyes sparkled with delight as she looked down at the young but ever-so-charming Millicas. She placed a hand over her heart in mock surprise, playing along with his refined manner.
"Oh my, such gallantry," she said with a warm smile. "How could I possibly say no to such a handsome young gentleman?" She took his small hand gently, curtsying just enough to match his theatrical tone. "It would be my honor, Lord Millicas."
Millicas beamed proudly—though his cheeks turned the faintest shade of pink—before leading her toward the dance floor with all the poise he could muster. The crowd parted slightly, amused and endeared, as the little devil prince and Arto's financial genius lover took their place among the swaying dancers.
The music softened just enough to welcome their entrance, shifting into a graceful, lilting waltz. Millicas straightened his posture, trying his best even though he is only as tall as her chest "My eyes are up here, gentleman~" Nami teases him slightly.
Millicas blinked up at her, momentarily flustered, his cheeks turning a deeper shade of pink as he tried—and adorably failed—to maintain his dignified composure.
"A-Apologies, Lady Nami!" he said quickly, his voice cracking just slightly in the middle of his sentence. "I, uh... was just making sure I didn't step on your feet!"
Nami laughed softly, the sound like a warm breeze across the ballroom. She leaned down just enough to whisper conspiratorially, "Relax, little prince. You're doing wonderfully."
Encouraged, Millicas took a deep breath and refocused, doing his utmost to match the rhythm of the music and Nami's graceful movements. She followed his lead gently, letting him feel like he was guiding the dance even as she subtly made each motion smoother.
"You know," Nami said, casting a quick glance toward Arto and Rias with a playful smirk, "if you keep this up, by the next ball, Kunou would have the best dancer with her"
Millicas stumbled just a tiny bit at the mention of Kunou, his eyes widening like someone had just cast a reveal spell on him.
"I—uh—I mean," he cleared his throat again, trying so hard to play it cool, "she does enjoy dancing... and I am practicing... for, you know, future diplomatic events, not anything else."
Nami raised a perfectly arched brow, a sly smile tugging at her lips. "Mmm, of course. Diplomacy. Very serious business. Has nothing to do with a certain foxy princess who gave you a handmade fan last month, right?"
Millicas looked like he might melt into the floor. "It was... a cultural gift!"
"I bet it was," Nami chuckled, giving him a graceful spin that made the surrounding guests pause and smile.
From afar, Sirzechs looks at his son dancing around with Nami "Damn, who did I raise?" Lucifer himself had to blink a few times, arms folded, eyes fixed on the dance floor as Millicas—his adorable, once-shy little boy—was now casually waltzing with one of the sharpest women in the Underworld like he was born in a ballroom.
Beside him, his wife Yelena tilted her head with that usual cool poise, lips twitching ever so slightly. "Apparently, a young nobleman with your flair for charm... and possibly Rias's dramatic timing."
Sirzechs sighed dramatically, rubbing a hand down his face. "I expected magic. Swordplay. A little political savviness. But now he's out here stealing hearts like he's some kind of mini Arto."
Yelena nods "He learnt a lot from his uncle, that knightly vibe, that upstanding posture, gentle voice, polite manners and how he carries himself around ladies, I have to admit, he is like a small version of Arto, but minus that sharp wits, our Millicas would need some time to gain that, but he got that 'prince' thing about him, something Arto doesn't have"
Sirzechs let out a slow, amused breath, arms still crossed as he watched Millicas give Nami a graceful spin. "You're right," he admitted, voice touched with both pride and reluctant amusement. "Arto's a warrior at heart, a knight at manners and a scientist at mind, charming by his wits and charisma, but nothing too regal, making him easier to approach than most"
Yelena smirked. "Whereas Millicas...has that natural grace," Yelena finished smoothly, her voice soft with admiration. "He walks like he was born under starlight, speaks like his words are written in silk, and looks at others like every person in the room matters. That's not just normal charm. That's presence. The kind that inspires loyalty, not just affection."
Sirzechs let out a short laugh, nodding slightly. "You make him sound like some destined ruler from a fairy tale."
"Maybe he is," Yelena replied, tilting her head thoughtfully. "He's inherited your power, your discipline. My calm and pragmatism. And Arto's heart-led clarity. That's a dangerous combination if nurtured properly."
Sirzechs hummed thoughtfully at that, a small, proud smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Presence... yeah. That's exactly it." His eyes lingered on Millicas a moment longer, watching the boy laugh politely at something Nami whispered, his posture never faltering, his hand never too tight or too lax—just right, like he'd practiced the dance a hundred times in his dreams.
"He doesn't try to dominate a room," Sirzechs continued, voice low and reflective. "He just exists in it, and people naturally gather around. It's not magic. It's not training. It's just... who he is. That quiet confidence. That ease. Hell, I didn't have that at his age."
Yelena's hand brushed his arm gently, her expression fond. "No. You had fire. You had brilliance. And you still do. But Millicas—he's light. A soft, warm glow that makes people want to follow him, not because they have to... but because they want to."
Sirzechs tilted his head, letting her words settle for a second before chuckling softly. "You know, I'm starting to get the feeling we're the ones being left behind. Our kid's out there acting like he's already halfway to becoming the next king of the Underworld."
Yelena gave him a sly glance. "Don't look too far, dear, Millicas is still a kid, and he should get to enjoy what childhood offers him, so while we are here talking about the future of the Underworld, let's keep it to ourselves, and let our son grow in joy and harmony, no pressure"
Sirzechs let out a quiet breath, the weight of centuries briefly softening under the gentleness in Yelena's voice. He glanced over at her, the corners of his eyes crinkling with a small, grateful smile.
"You're right," he murmured, the usual edge of power in his voice mellowed by affection. "No pressure. Just... dances, snacks, and a little harmless flirtation between nobles-in-training."
His gaze returned to Millicas, who was now helping Nami execute a twirl with the exaggerated care of someone who'd practiced a hundred times just to get it perfect. The boy's eyes were alight with pride and joy, his laughter effortless.
Sirzechs folded his arms again, the stance now more relaxed than regal. "He really is happy, isn't he?"
Yelena stepped beside him, resting her head lightly on his shoulder. "He is. Because he's loved. Not for what he'll become—but for who he is now. That's what matters. Now..."
Yelena takes her husband's hand "Well, are you going to let your son take all the spotlight while the all mighty Lucifer of the Underworld is standing here without even offering his own wife for a dance?" She pulls him towards the glowing heart of the ballroom, her heels clicking softly against the marble floor with each graceful step.
Sirzechs raised a brow, utterly helpless against her charm. "You mean to tell me I'm being outshone by my own son?"
Yelena gave him a sly smirk, her silver eyes twinkling. "I mean to tell you that if you don't get out there and dance with me, I will let everyone believe that Millicas inherited his charisma exclusively from my side of the family."
Sirzechs laughed—a real, warm laugh, one that made a few nearby heads turn in surprise. "That would be the greatest scandal in all of devil society."
"Exactly," she said, looping her arm through his and tugging him forward with queenly grace. "So come, my King. Let's show them where Millicas gets it from."
And so the King and Queen of the Underworld stepped onto the dance floor—unmatched in elegance, radiating power and affection. As the music swelled again, they moved as if gravity bowed for them, their presence enough to silence murmurs and draw admiration like moths to moonlight.
"Damn, the young ones are going all out in this" Zeoticus admires as he sips his wine, he settles the cup down and adjusts his attires, then comes to his wife Venelana, extends his hand to her "The princes and princesses have all made their appearance, maybe it's about time the Queen graces the place with her elegance and beauty?"
Venelana, who had been observing the dance floor with that signature composed smile of hers, turned her head gracefully as her husband approached. Her eyes twinkled with that familiar fire—the kind that never dulled, even with years of nobility, politics, and parenting under her belt.
"Oh my," she said, feigning surprise as she placed her hand in Zeoticus's, her tone warm and teasing. "The king himself asking for a dance? Should I be honored or suspicious?"
Zeoticus chuckled, gently lifting her hand to brush a kiss across her knuckles. "Both, perhaps. But mostly honored. After all, how many queens still steal the spotlight from their daughters at a glance?"
Venelana arched a brow. "Flattery won't save your feet if you're rusty, my dear."
"I've been training with Rias's instructors just for this moment," Zeoticus quipped with mock-seriousness as he led her toward the floor. "I may not have her demonic power, but I've got the moves of a man who knows how to keep up with a goddess."
As the music swelled again, slightly shifting into a more elegant and noble rhythm fit for older, seasoned couples, the ballroom seemed to take note. Whispers flitted around as guests made space for the Gremory patriarch and matriarch. A sense of grace descended over the floor as Zeoticus and Venelana took their place—dancing not just with practiced ease, but with the unspoken connection of years spent building a family, a clan, and a legacy.
Venelana leaned in close enough for only Zeoticus to hear. "You're lucky I wore the heels that let me float rather than stomp. If you misstep, I won't be kind."
Zeoticus chuckled low in his throat, utterly unbothered. "Then I'll just have to impress you."
And he did, with the kind of quiet elegance that made it clear: though their daughter might now be the star of the night, the queen and king of the Gremory name hadn't lost their magic—not one bit.
At the center of the dance floor, Arto and Rias are enjoying their dance without any care in the world, their eyes locked onto each other. The ballroom, though filled with light and music and life, seemed to blur around them—the nobles, the laughter, even the ambient shimmer of magic fading into the background as Arto and Rias moved in perfect harmony at the center of it all.
Arto's hand rested gently at Rias's waist, guiding her with the confidence of someone who wasn't just leading a dance, but following a rhythm only they shared. Rias's fingers laced through his other hand, her steps fluid and assured, her every movement echoing the grace she wielded on the battlefield—but now, softened by something much more intimate.
Their eyes remained locked, saying more in glances than words ever could. The usual fiery gleam in Rias's eyes had melted into something warmer, softer. As if, in this moment, she wasn't the heiress of Gremory, or a celebrated winner of a fierce Rating Game—but simply Rias, a woman in love, lost in the arms of the one person who always seemed to understand her beyond titles and expectations.
Arto's gaze didn't waver, his expression calm but deeply affectionate, like she was the only thing in the room worth noticing. His thumb gently stroked the back of her hand as they turned, slow and steady, unbothered by pace or pressure. Each step echoed trust, each sway a quiet declaration: We are here. Together.
"You are incredibly skilled for a person who rarely dances, my love." Rias speaks first with a teasing grin "Have you been practicing?"
"No, I haven't, you know I'm too busy for that. I'm just doing this out of instinct, like some kind of muscle memory, standing here with you now reminds me of a distant past, where I performed a dance, a dance with a woman I couldn't remember, nothing but one word"
Rias arched a brow at that, curiosity flickering behind her playful expression. Her teasing smile softened just slightly into something more thoughtful. "Only one word?" she echoed, voice low, the kind of tone she reserved for questions that meant more than they seemed.
Arto nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "'Love'. She was my first love, the first person who made me tingle, that's all I know, other things were over my head after thousands of years wandering in the Void before coming here, to you."
Arto tightens his grip on Rias' waist, like not wanting to let her go "I danced like that dance I shared with her, somehow the movement is still clear in my head, but her face, voice, and the setting were beyond me. As far as I could remember, it was our last dance before we had to breakup, the reason is unclear, but there is something I can be certain about, none of us wanted that, I still vaguely remember the sound of my shattered heart, vision blurred by tears, my inside twisted in pain, but I forced myself to walk away, to leave her behind, to not look back, or else we would fall in love again"
Arto snaps out of his thoughts as he shakes his head, his dark blue eyes rest on Rias' as he sighs "What was I saying? Sorry my love, for bringing this up now, in the middle of a celebration..."
Rias didn't respond right away—not with words, anyway. Her gaze stayed locked with Arto's, her body still moving with his, but slower now, more intimate, like the dance had shifted from performance to something deeply personal. Her fingers tightened ever so slightly around his, grounding him, holding him close as if anchoring his soul to the here and now.
"You don't have to apologize," she said softly, her voice a whisper just for him. "It's part of you. And if it's part of you, then I want to know it."
There was no jealousy in her tone, no bitterness. Just that quiet, fierce affection that Rias carried when she was being truly vulnerable. The kind she rarely showed in public. And especially not while dancing in the center of a ballroom.
"I don't know who she was," Rias continued, her eyes glimmering with that rare blend of gentleness and pride, "but I do know one thing for certain—whoever she was, she was lucky. Because she loved a man who could carry that kind of pain for thousands of years... and still have so much love left to give."
Arto blinked once, lips parting slightly at her words—but Rias wasn't finished. She reached up slowly, brushing his cheek with her fingers, not caring in the slightest that nobles and devils were watching. "You're here now. You found your way across the Void, into this world, into my life, where you never have to turn away, or to leave ever again"
Then, with a small smile—bittersweet and radiant—she leaned closer, her forehead gently resting against his. "So dance with me, Arto. Dance like you did that day... but this time, don't leave. Let our dance, my dance, your dance end on a note of love and happiness, no more grief, no more pain, no more separation."
Her hand tightens around his "I am yours as you are mine, we will never be apart, I won't let your history repeat itself, and I do hope you find your happiness in me like how you found love in her"
Arto's breath hitched, just slightly—but enough for Rias to notice. His eyes, those dark blue oceans that had so often looked calm and unreadable, now shimmered with something deeper, something raw and luminous.
He didn't speak at first. Instead, he pulled her closer—not possessively, not desperately, but with the kind of hold that says this is home. That silent language of a soul that's been searching for centuries, only to finally stop running.
"...You already are that happiness," he said, voice barely above the music, low and sure. "You've been it from the moment you took me in and gave me everything to prove my worth, despite the doubts from people around you, looked at me not like a tool, or a weapon, or even a mystery... but like a man worth loving. You saw me—even when I couldn't."
His fingers grazed along the edge of her cheek, reverent, almost disbelieving. "You're not just writing a new story with me, Rias... you're healing one I never thought could be rewritten."
The orchestra swelled behind them, notes rising like moonlight on water, and Arto finally smiled—not his usual smirk, not the practiced calm, but something open and wholly sincere.
"So let's end this dance with that promise," he said, forehead pressed gently to hers, their lips just a breath apart. "No more sorrow. No more goodbyes. Just us. This lifetime... and every one after."
And in that golden-hued ballroom, beneath the glow of chandeliers and surrounded by laughter, joy, and family—they danced as if the world had finally set itself right.
Notes:
To be continue.......
Chapter 39: The confession
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
The dance is over when the song comes to an end, Arto looks at Rias “That was an emotional journey, don’t you think, my love?”
"It was, you look at her like she is your only woman" Albedo comes to Arto for a hug "Lucky for Rias today is her special day or else I would have demanded a dance for myself" the succubus huffs as she wraps herself around Arto.
"Indeed, you focused so much on Rias you forgot you have other lovers as well" Grayfia follows suit as she takes Arto's hand into hers for a warm squeeze and a kiss on his cheek.
"And you even left your Queen alone, how bold of you, my love. And you said you love me the most, I’ll have to reconsider that statement after today" Robin comes to Arto with a piercing but playful gaze.
"Come now, ladies, apart from today is Rias' special day, she was the one being compensated in this event, she and Akeno were the ones I spent the least of time with a few months lately due to my trip to Vigrid and their training for the Rating Game, so if anything, Akeno should be the only one being able to complain about negligence" Arto holds his hand up, trying to explain the situation to his lovers.
A collective pause followed Arto’s words, the kind that hangs between close lovers when truths—however gently wrapped—are placed on the table. Then, as if a silent cue passed between them all, came the wave of reactions.
Albedo pouted, tightening her embrace possessively, though the glint in her eyes betrayed her playful nature. “Fine, fine ,” she relented with an exaggerated sigh, burying her face into Arto’s shoulder for just a second. “But don’t think I won’t make you pay that debt with a very long night in my wing later.”
Grayfia smirked, brushing her silver hair over one shoulder as she leaned against Arto’s side. “I suppose that’s fair,” she mused softly, her voice that perfect blend of mature calm and unspoken challenge. “Just don’t let it become a habit. Even I can’t stay too understanding forever, master~.”
Robin clicked her tongue, her arms crossing under her chest as she tilted her head at him. “You’re very lucky I find your honesty charming,” she murmured, eyes narrowing with amusement. “But don’t go testing just how charming you are. I keep score.”
And then, almost on cue—because of course it would happen now—Akeno slid into the circle like a whisper of lightning wrapped in silk.
“Oh? Did I hear my name being used to deflect guilt?” she said sweetly, that signature sadistic smile playing at the corners of her lips as she looped an arm through Arto’s from the side opposite Grayfia. “You're right, of course, Arto. I was terribly neglected.”
She leaned closer, her lips barely grazing the shell of his ear. “And I do expect you to fix that. In full.”
Arto gave a long, theatrical sigh—the kind only a man who was both doomed and absolutely reveling in it could pull off. “And here I thought your beloved father Baraqiel could help me distract you for the night” he turns to Akeno for a kiss on her cheek.
Akeno let out a soft giggle, the kind that danced on the edge of playful threat and genuine affection. She tilted her head ever so slightly, allowing the kiss to land on her cheek, though her eyes remained locked onto Arto’s with that trademark mischievous glint.
“Oh Arto~,” she purred, voice smooth as silk and sweet like static before a lightning strike. “Now I know why you invited my father here today, so it's not just for celebration after all, hmmm~? Though I loved our father-daughter moments, I still require my share of love from the man who I didn't get to meet for more than a month.”
"And you'd better make it worth it, Arto, or else I will personally make sure my little Akeno gets what she deserves" Baraqiel joins them with a piercing, crackling look on Arto.
Arto straightened ever so slightly at the sudden thunderstorm-in-human-form presence of Baraqiel joining the circle, the static in the air rising just enough to ruffle a few wayward strands of his hair. Akeno, still holding onto Arto's arm, looked positively delighted by the tension, as if watching two stags preparing to lock antlers—but with far more voltage involved.
“Ah, Lord Baraqiel,” Arto greeted with that disarming, too-calm grin, the one that always made people wonder if he was confident, crazy, or just plain reckless. “I assure you, your daughter will receive every second of affection she is due. I’ll make up for lost time with interest. Emotional, romantic, and otherwise.”
Baraqiel didn’t flinch. “You’d better,” he said, arms crossed, lightning flickering across his eyes like a brewing storm barely contained behind weathered calm. “Akeno may be capable of causing earthquakes with a whisper, but don’t think for a second I’ve retired from my role as her protector. You may be her lover, but I was her guardian first.”
Arto nodded solemnly—though the twinkle in his eyes betrayed his inner sass. “Then let it be known,” he said, placing a hand over his heart in a mock-knight’s vow, “that I consider my responsibility to Akeno as sacred as your own. And unlike those poor fools in the last Rating Game, I actually survived your daughter’s lightning cuddles. That has to count for something.”
Akeno chuckled, resting her head lightly on Arto’s shoulder with a happy little hum. “You two always make it sound like I’m some walking divine calamity.”
“You are,” both men replied in perfect unison.
A beat passed. Akeno blinked, then laughed. “I love you both,” she said, almost too sweetly, “but keep talking like that and you’ll both become divine calamities by the end of the night.”
Rias, not far off, looked over with amusement sparkling in her eyes. “Arto, I think this is the part where you take Akeno to the dance floor before Baraqiel decides to test his lightning on you.”
Arto shrugs “No need, I have other plan for Akeno, I’ve made something for her and tonight might be a perfect moment to check it out”
Akeno’s eyes sparkled with curiosity “Oh, pray tell, what did you make for me, my darling~?” she purrs into his ears lovingly.
“A dreamscape, a whole dreamscape for just you and me, a subspace of the Endless, where only you can me can access”
Akeno’s breath caught—just for a second—but that second stretched like a sweet note in a love song, her eyes wide with wonder and affection. Her voice dropped to a near-whisper, teasing and touching all at once. “A dreamscape , you say? How very... Arto of you.”
She leaned in closer, brushing her lips near his ear, her voice laced with velvet lightning. “A private realm, just for the two of us... You really do know how to make a girl feel like the center of a universe.”
Arto gave her a soft grin, the kind that said yes, I did this just for you—and I loved every second of it. His voice, though calm, carried the gravity of a promise. “It’s a world shaped by what I know you love: moonlight bathing sakura trees, waterfalls that hum like lullabies, a quiet lake with petals floating on it, warm sand under our feet. A slow sky of twilight, never too dark, never too bright. It’s… serenity. Yours and mine.”
Akeno’s expression softened, visibly touched. Her flirtatious edge didn’t disappear—it never truly did—but something deeper shimmered underneath now. “That sounds like heaven,” she murmured. “And you made it just for me?”
“I made it because of you,” Arto replied gently. “You are the guardian of my dream, the woman who saved me time after time from the shadow of my past, when they came to torture me you were there, reminding me of where I am, pulling me out of those nightmares into your gentle embrace, so a dreamscape for you, I think it’s a fitting gift to show how much your actions means to me”
Akeno's breath hitched, her eyes shimmering with something deeper than her usual teasing flirtation. For a moment, she was completely still, her usual playful demeanor giving way to something much more tender. The words Arto spoke had reached something profound within her, something she rarely let others see.
"You..." Her voice faltered for the briefest second before she steadied herself, her fingers gently brushing against his arm. "Arto..." she whispered, her gaze softening, like she was seeing him for the first time all over again, not as a lover or a partner in schemes, but as someone who truly understood her. "I... I never knew how much I needed to hear that."
Arto’s smirk softened into something warm, his eyes reflecting the quiet affection that was always there but often masked by their playful banter. “It’s the truth. You have a way of bringing light into even my darkest moments. You’ve always been my strength.”
The warmth in Akeno’s gaze deepened, and for a fleeting moment, the two of them existed in their own world, with no distractions, no drama, just the quiet understanding of two souls who had fought and loved together through it all.
"Why go such length for me, love? You could've just build me a sector in the simulation room like others" Akeno's voice laced with love and curiosity as she leans closer to him, searching for an answer. "It's because a normal sector could never handle what I put in that realm for you, Akeno" His hand rests on her flushing cheeks "And your role in my life is tied to my dreams, so a haven in the Endless is a better way to appreciate my beloved Akeno. Even until now, I could never understand why you're the only one who could make your way into my nightmares and save me, but I could never let those effort go unnoticed"
Akeno closed her eyes at his touch, leaning into the warmth of his hand as if it were the very center of her universe. The flush on her cheeks deepened, not from embarrassment, but from a rare vulnerability she allowed only for him. When she opened her eyes again, they shimmered with emotion—gratitude, wonder, and something far more potent.
“No one’s ever...” she began, her voice softer than the silk of her kimono, “no one’s ever thanked me like that before. Not with words. Not with... an entire world.”
She let out a shaky breath, her lips curling into the faintest, most heartfelt smile she’d given all night. “All those nights I crawled into your nightmares... I never did it expecting anything in return. I just—couldn’t stand seeing you lost in that pain, alone in the dark like that.” Her hand covered his, fingers curling around his with reverence. “It broke my heart every time.”
Arto’s thumb brushed across her cheek slowly, tenderly. “You didn’t just pull me out, Akeno. You held me there. In that space between waking and sleep, when everything was at its worst... it was your voice I heard. Your arms I felt. You didn’t just chase the shadows away—you reminded me that I was not in the past anymore, I’m in a new world, a new life, with you”
Akeno’s lips trembled at his words, her composure gently unraveling like petals caught in a warm breeze. She lowered her gaze for a moment, overwhelmed by the weight of his sincerity, before lifting it again—eyes shimmering like starlight over deep waters.
“That’s all I ever wanted,” she whispered, her voice almost breaking. “For you to know that you don’t have to keep fighting those ghosts alone. That I’m here . Always have been. Always will be.”
There was no teasing now, no flirtation dancing on the edge of her tongue. Just honesty—raw and luminous, like the very soul of her laid bare before him.
“You say I reminded you of your new life...” she continued softly, “But you gave me one too. All my life, I’ve hidden behind smiles and sensuality, behind thunder and power. But with you, I don’t have to be anyone else. I can just be . And that dreamscape you made for me—it’s not just a gift. It’s a sanctuary. It’s proof that you see me, truly see me.”
Her fingers gently traced the lines of his hand, memorizing him like scripture. “And now I realize... every time I held you in your nightmares, it wasn’t to save you from them.” She looked up, a tender resolve settling in her voice. “It was to bring you to me .”
Arto’s gaze softened, his hand cradling hers as though it were the most precious thing in existence. “Then that dream... is ours now,” he murmured. “Born from your light and my shadow. Not just a place to escape—but a place to begin.”
Akeno nodded slowly, a single tear slipping free—not of sorrow, but of release. She leaned in, her lips brushing against his in the gentlest of kisses, more a vow than a gesture.
“For every nightmare you face,” she whispered against his lips, “I’ll be your dawn.”
“Uhh…I know it’s emotional and all but what should I do with these 2?” Erza calls Arto from behind, on her back is a fainted Asia. “They fainted from the moment Bayonetta came in and walked towards us” Kiba joins in as he carries a fainted Issei on his back.
Arto turned his head slowly, still holding Akeno’s hand, his expression flickering between romantic serenity and mild exasperation. “Right… I almost forgot we had casualties.”
Akeno chuckled softly, the glow in her eyes still present as she gently pulled away—just a little—to look over at Erza and Kiba. “Well, to be fair, seeing her up close like that is practically a divine overload if you’re not used to it. Poor Asia didn’t stand a chance.”
“And Issei…” Rias sighed, arms crossed and smirking faintly. “That boy would faint if a goddess winked in his general direction. Bayonetta basically walked past him in slow motion.”
Kiba grunted under Issei’s weight. “I think he mumbled something about thighs before collapsing.”
Arto sighed with a light smile and walked toward them, brushing a hand through his hair. “Alright, let’s move them to the lounge. Erza, can you put Asia on the couch? Kiba, drop Issei on anything soft. He’ll bounce back the moment he smells food or hears the word ‘boobs.’”
“Can someone help me take her off my back?” Koneko annoyingly asks as she is carrying a soundly sleeping Kuroka, who is clinging tightly to her sister’s back and is nibbling Koneko's ear in her nap.
Arto blinked at the sight of Koneko standing stiff as a statue, a deeply unamused expression plastered on her face while Kuroka snoozed away, arms locked tight around her like a fuzzy koala. The soft nibbling on Koneko’s ear only made her eyebrow twitch harder.
“…She does that?” Arto asked, tilting his head.
“She always does that,” Koneko grumbled, ears twitching. “And if I try to peel her off, she growls like a possessed cat and hugs harder.”
Akeno tried (and failed) to suppress a giggle. “She really is the clingiest sleeper I’ve ever seen. It’s kind of adorable.”
“It’s kind of annoying ,” Koneko deadpanned. “I am not a bed. Or a plush toy. Or a snack.”
Rias stepped forward, hiding her smile behind her hand. “Alright, let’s get her off you before she mistakes your tail for dessert.”
Arto smirked and gently approached, hands up like he was diffusing a bomb. “Alright, I’ve got this—Akeno, can you distract her dream for a second? Just give her something to chase in there.”
Akeno tilted her head. “Like what?”
“Something shiny. Or warm. Or… possibly tuna-flavored,” he suggested with a straight face.
Akeno closed her eyes for a second, a faint spark of power shimmering around her fingers as she whispered into Kuroka’s sleeping mind. Within moments, Kuroka let out a dreamy “Nyaa~” and loosened her grip, the nibbling stopping as her arms relaxed.
Arto gently unlatched Kuroka’s hands from Koneko’s shoulders, lifting her with care and cradling her like a sleepy kitten. “There we go. One unconscious nekoshou, properly disengaged.”
Koneko rolled her shoulders with a groan, rubbing the spot where Kuroka had latched on like a living scarf. “She’s heavier than she looks. And warmer. Like a heat pack with claws.”
Arto chuckled, glancing down at Kuroka, who was now nuzzling into his chest, purring softly with a blissed-out smile on her face. “She’s dreaming of tuna sunbathing on a windowsill, I think. You did good, Akeno.”
“I’m a woman of many talents,” Akeno replied with a graceful bow, the twinkle of mischief never quite leaving her eyes.
Kiba, still hoisting a passed-out Issei, raised an eyebrow. “Should we just make a pile? At this rate, we’ll need a nap corner.”
Arto shakes his head “There is no need, the party is over, now it’s time for them to head home, Erza, Kiba, you 2 take care of Asia and Issei then get your rest, I’ll take this cat home and call it a day”
Erza gave a firm nod “Got it. I’ll make sure she’s settled in safely.” She glanced down at the peacefully slumbering nun. “Girl’s going to wake up tomorrow with no memory of anything past Bayonetta’s entrance.”
Kiba adjusted Issei on his back with a resigned sigh. “And this guy’s going to wake up thinking it was the best dream of his life.”
Arto chuckled. “He’ll probably think the goddess kissed him before he blacked out.”
“Wouldn’t be the worst story he’s told,” Kiba muttered as he turned to leave.
Akeno approached Arto one last time, reaching up to brush a few strands of Kuroka’s hair from her cheek as she slept against him. “Take good care of her,” she said softly, a playful but sincere glimmer in her eyes. “Even chaos kitties deserve sweet dreams.”
Arto smirked, glancing at Kuroka’s relaxed, purring form. “She’ll be fine. I’ll tuck her in with a blanket made of moonlight and dreams of warm fish.”
“You’re too poetic for your own good,” Robin remarked as she walked past, her tone dry but the smile in her eyes betraying her affection. He gave a small shrug. “Only when they deserve it.”
With Kuroka nestled against his chest and her tail occasionally twitching with some dream-induced mischief, Arto stepped toward the exit. The ballroom, now dimming with the end of the evening’s grandeur, echoed softly with the fading laughter and murmurs of his companions.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Kuroka dreaming about fish)
The quiet click of the door behind him sealed away the chaos of the evening—the stares, the surprises, the intensity of a goddess’s challenge, and the raw emotion of a lover’s embrace. Now, only silence filled the space, warm and dimly lit by the soft amber glow of a night lamp.
Arto exhaled as he peeled off the layers of his formal attire, each article of clothing slipping away like tension from his shoulders. He left on only a pair of dark shorts before walking toward the bed, the cool sheets inviting him like a whispered promise of rest.
With a slow, deliberate stretch, he laid back, arms above his head as his muscles sighed in relief. The mattress welcomed him, cradling his frame in its softness. He stared at the ceiling for a moment, letting everything settle.
The room was serene, wrapped in shadows and quiet. A faint breeze drifted through the cracked window, brushing over his skin like a lover’s touch, and outside, the hum of the world slowed to a gentle hush.
“…What a night,” he muttered to himself, eyes half-lidded.
The door slowly creaked open as Arto saw his lovers heading in in their seductive nightgowns, his eyes lays on them as giggles come from the ladies “It seems our man is interested, ladies” Rias declares as she hops on the bed and takes the position close to Arto, she lays her head on his chest and wraps her arm around his stomach “Mine”
“Only for tonight, little sis, tomorrow that spot is mine” Nami chimes in as she takes the position right behind Rias and takes Arto’s arm for herself and squeezes it in her gentle embrace. “My beloved hugging pillow” She rubs her face against his arm, making Arto chuckles.
“I guess this spot tonight is mine” Akeno takes the other chest of Arto as a pillow for herself “Having my man leading me to the private love nest he made for me when sleeping on his chest like this, luck is on my side tonight” she nuzzles closer to Arto as he hand drawing circles on his chest “Take me there, my dream architect, show me the love you have for me” she purrs lazily.
“Hand me your arm, Arto, it’s hard to sleep without my hugging pillow” Robin immediately takes Arto’s other arm as hers when she lays down behind Akeno “Don’t worry, Grayfia, Albedo, you’ll have his arms by tomorrow” she coos warmly and buries her face into his shoulder.
Albedo crossed her arms just beside the bed, her lips curling into the deepest pout any of them had seen that night. Her golden eyes shimmered with a mix of indignation and longing, practically radiating the phrase “not fair.”
“That’s easy for you to say, Robin,” she grumbled, tapping one elegant finger against her arm. “You’ve already wrapped yourself around him like a smug little vine.”
Robin just gave a sly smile, her eyes closed as she snuggled deeper. “Smugness comes with seniority, dear. But you know the rules, get behind me, dear, you get to have my body as your hugging pillow tonight”
Albedo narrowed her eyes, then relented with a dramatic sigh and slowly climbed into the bed beside Robin, resting her head on the raven-haired woman’s back. “Fine. But I’m the big spoon.”
Grayfia silently takes the position behind Nami as she spoons the orange-haired lady “Warm, soft and tangerine, this could help me survive the night” the head maid sighs.
Nami let out a soft, surprised little laugh as she felt Grayfia’s arms slide around her waist and her cool breath against the back of her neck. “Tangerine, huh?” she murmured with a smile, nestling back into Grayfia’s hold. “That’s a new one. But I’ll allow it.”
Grayfia exhaled slowly, letting the tension drain from her ever-poised posture as she rested her forehead gently against Nami’s shoulder. “You radiate warmth,” she said quietly, almost sleepily. “Not just from your body… but your spirit. It's been a long evening, and I need that kind of warmth to sleep.” Her eyes slowly close with a slight yawn.
At that moment, Rias and Akeno do their usual habit and whisk their nightgowns away to sleep in a naked state “This is better” Rias sighs contently as she snuggles closer to Arto “Skin to skin contact is always the best”
Arto chuckled softly, the sound vibrating against Rias’s cheek as she pressed herself more firmly to his side. “You two never change,” he said, amusement dancing in his voice. “but I don’t expect you to ever change, because having you soft, smooth skin brushing against mine, I don’t mind having it every day”
Rias hummed with satisfaction, her fingers lazily tracing patterns across Arto’s chest. “Good,” she whispered, eyes half-lidded and filled with quiet joy. “Because I don’t ever plan on stopping. Being like this… close, real, completely bare—not just the body, but the soul—it reminds me I’m truly yours.”
“I don’t mind either, Rias, hugging you like this is insanely comfortable” Nami squeezes Rias tighter as she presses closer to her beloved sister.
A light snore snaps them out of their bantering, it’s Grayfia who has already been asleep.
Robin cracked one eye open and smirked gently at the soft, steady breathing coming from Grayfia. “She always falls asleep first when she’s truly relaxed,” she murmured, brushing a few silver strands out of the maid’s face. “It’s rare… and kind of sweet.”
Albedo, nestled up against Robin’s back now with an arm lazily thrown over her, yawned. “Hmph. It’s because she worked the hardest. Let her have this peace.”
Akeno, now fully bare and nestled against Arto’s other side, ran a single finger along his jawline and whispered, “With this kind of warmth, who wouldn’t drift off easily? I might be next…” Her tone was sultry, but her eyes were already soft and dreamy.
Arto’s hand slid gently over Rias’s back as he smiled down at the women all curled up around him. “Then sleep,” he said quietly, his voice like a lullaby. “All of you. You’ve earned it. Good night, my loves”
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto and his harem flying to the Endless)
When Arto and his women land in their shared dream realm, the Endless, Arto takes Akeno's hand "Enjoy yourselves, ladies, I have a little date with my Akeno" He pulls her towards her domain in the Endless, where the world he built for her is placed.
As Arto and Akeno stepped across the shimmering threshold into her domain within the Endless, the dreamscape around them shifted—fluid, responsive, and breathtakingly intimate.
Akeno’s domain was a reflection of both her elegance and her passion, a world born from the very core of her being.
The sky above them glowed in hues of eternal twilight, a velvety blend of soft purples and rose golds, as if dusk and dawn were locked in a perpetual embrace. Floating above, great orbs of radiant moonlight hovered gently, their light casting a silvery shimmer over everything it touched.
They walked along a path of glowing sakura petals that glided across a mirror-like surface of obsidian water. Each step sent gentle ripples across the surface, as though the world itself welcomed her return. The trees lining the path were tall, ancient sakura in full bloom, petals never falling but rather drifting in slow, graceful spirals that filled the air like confetti of light.
To their right, an open-air onsen nestled among smooth, glistening stones overlooked a cliff’s edge. From it, warm steam rose into the twilight, carrying the scent of lavender and rain. Soft lanterns floated lazily around it, casting golden reflections that danced across the water's surface. This was where Akeno came to wash away her pain, her memories—where she healed.
To the left stood a quiet shrine, minimal and reverent, with a ribbon of lightning-shaped paper charms tied gently to its torii gate. Not a place of worship, but remembrance. It hummed with subtle spiritual energy, a tether to her past and the loved ones she’d lost, yet kept close in her heart.
But at the domain’s center—where Arto now led her—stood a pavilion made of deep red wood and translucent shoji walls, perched on stilts just above a still, moonlit lake. The pavilion was open to the soft breeze, framed by trailing vines of wisteria that swayed like whispers. Within, silk cushions were arranged around a low table where tea steamed gently beside a single glowing crystal: the heart of this world, pulsing in harmony with Akeno’s heartbeat.
This was her sanctuary, a world balanced between beauty and intensity, serenity and power. Just like her.
As they step inside the center home of the domain, there is one difference, there is a new door appearing inside the house. Akeno’s fingers hovered just above the door, her breath catching slightly at the warmth that radiated from its surface. Unlike the rest of the house, which felt like a gentle echo of her soul, this door thrummed with something new—something personal and yet unknown, like an unopened love letter from Arto himself.
The wood of the door was smooth, midnight black with violet veins running through it like captured lightning, and at the center, a small silver sigil shimmered faintly, pulsing in time with her heartbeat. The air around it buzzed softly, as though the world itself was holding its breath, waiting for her.
She turned to Arto, who stood just behind her with that ever-knowing, patient look in his eyes. “Is this…?” her voice was barely a whisper, but he nodded before she could even finish.
“Indeed,” he said gently. “The gateway to the dreamscape I built for you. It’s locked for now—not by magic, but by intention. All you need to do… is give it a name.”
Akeno blinked, surprised. “A name?”
Arto stepped forward, his hand brushing hers as he gestured to the door. “It’s your world, Akeno. It will respond to your truth, your desire. The name you give it will shape its core, its memory, its soul.”
She looked back at the door, heart fluttering. So many words danced on the edge of her lips—names from her past, ideas drawn from love and pain and longing—but one rose above all the rest. Simple. Poetic. True.
She placed her palm flat against the door.
“… Yoru no Tenshi ,” she said softly. Angel of the Night.
The sigil glowed brighter, and for a moment, the air around them bloomed with light and scent—sakura petals in full spiral, the hum of distant thunder, the soft gasp of a world being born. The door shifted, creaked open ever so slightly… and beyond it, a warm breeze whispered out, carrying the scent of midnight rain and blooming lavender.
Akeno turned to Arto, her eyes gleaming with something that went far beyond affection. “Let’s go see what you made for your angel of the night.”
As Arto and Akeno stepped through the glowing doorway, the world on the other side unfurled like a memory wrapped in a dream—only this time, it wasn’t hers. It was hers, seen through him .
The first thing she noticed was the sky.
A deep, indigo canvas stretched endlessly overhead, neither day nor night, but an eternal twilight where stars twinkled lazily and a moon—massive, silver, and impossibly close—hung like a gentle eye watching over the world. Sakura petals drifted upward instead of falling, like time itself bent in reverence to her presence.
The ground beneath their feet was soft, not quite grass, not quite sand—something dreamlike in texture, cool and smooth, giving way only slightly with each step. It shimmered faintly with violet light, as if Akeno's own lightning lived in the very soil.
They stood on a path made of glassy obsidian veined with silver, leading through a tranquil forest where every tree bore flowers that bloomed in the color of her eyes—amethyst and dusk-violet, kissed by rain. Small globes of lightning floated lazily through the branches, humming with gentle warmth, never striking, only illuminating. The trees bent slightly as she passed, not from wind, but as if bowing.
In the distance, a massive lake reflected the moon above perfectly, ringed with soft lanterns that hovered in the air, casting halos over the surface. Akeno saw that the lake’s center held an island, and on it… a shrine. Not of any faith she knew—no, this one was built in her image.
Intricately carved marble pillars wrapped with ribbons of lightning stood tall around a circular dais, and in its center, a single cherry blossom tree bloomed with petals that glowed like stardust. Akeno recognized the silhouette engraved on the shrine's stone gate: her own, captured mid-dance, her wings outstretched, her hair flowing like storm clouds.
She turned to Arto, eyes wide, heart full. “This is… how you see me ?”
Arto gave her a gentle, quiet smile, stepping beside her as the warm light from the shrine touched their faces. “Every time you walked into my darkest moments, Akeno, this is what I saw. Grace in chaos. Serenity in the storm. A storm that loves me.”
She looked around again, this time with tears gathering at the corners of her eyes—not from sadness, but from awe.
The world wasn’t just a gift.
It was a confession.
A sanctuary.
A love letter.
“You really do see me like this,” she whispered, turning to him with a trembling smile. “Not as broken, not as dangerous, not as a weapon.”
“No,” he said, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. “I see you as a goddess of lightning who chose to be gentle. The fiercest force in the world... who still holds me like I’m something precious.”
Akeno closed the space between them and wrapped her arms around his neck, her voice thick with emotion. “Then let me be your storm forever.”
They twirl around together in a slow humming of the world itself, Arto wraps his arms around her waist as they waltz slowly with their forehead touched under the night sky of the world he built for her.
At one moment, Arto's face tilts to the side to let Akeno see the sky above this realm, Akeno felt his hand gently guide her chin upward, and her breath caught as the sky itself shifted above them.
The stars—millions of them—began to stir in the velvet expanse, gliding slowly and purposefully. At first, it looked like a celestial dance, a quiet ripple across the heavens. Then, the movement gained clarity. A pattern. A portrait. Her portrait.
Thousands of stars aligned in perfect synchrony, forming the unmistakable silhouette of her figure: wings arched gracefully, hair flowing like storm clouds caught mid-motion, eyes half-lidded in that serene yet commanding way only she could hold. Lightning—actual lightning, soft and luminous—ran through the star-portrait like veins of energy, animating it with a living brilliance.
Her likeness sparkled in the heavens, larger than mountains, crowned by constellations reformed to resemble the adornments she often wore—silver hairpins, the sakura clip Arto had gifted her once, even the soft curve of her smile, immortalized in starlight.
Akeno’s hand rose to her chest as if to steady herself, her voice barely a breath. “Arto… this is…”
“The sky remembers you now,” Arto said softly into her ear, his voice laced with reverence. “Every dreamer who ever looks up here will see you . Because to me, you're not just part of the world—I built this world around you.”
She turned to him, eyes glistening. “You carved me into the stars…”
“I carved the truth,” he replied. “That the brightest light in my darkest nights... was always you .”
And above them, in the quiet, endless night, Akeno's starborn portrait shimmered with warmth—not a goddess made from power, but from love. But the surprise isn’t done as Arto changes his position to behind her, he gently takes her wrists into his hand from behind and starts moving them.
And to Akeno’s widened eyes, the realm is shifting to her movements, he gently whispers into her ears “Move with me, my dearest dream guardian, let this dream realm know that its master is here”
Akeno gasped softly as she felt Arto’s warmth press gently against her back, his hands enclosing hers with reverent care. The sensation of him guiding her movements was like a waltz whispered into existence—intimate, fluid, and wrapped in trust.
Her arms, held delicately in his, began to glide through the air—and as they moved, the realm responded.
The soft breeze that had once rustled through sakura trees now surged in time with their sway, petals swirling in elegant swirls around them like dancers obeying a silent symphony. The lake ahead, calm as a mirror, rippled outward in shimmering circles that reflected not just the stars, but the echo of her emotions. And the very sky—the starlit tapestry that bore her likeness—responded too. The constellation of Akeno blinked with celestial life, reacting to her presence as if it had always waited for her command.
Akeno’s lips parted in awe, her heart thundering softly in her chest. "You made the world move for me," she whispered, her voice unsteady, overwhelmed.
“No,” Arto whispered against her ear, voice low and affectionate, “you are the one who moves it. This dreamscape knows its keeper now, its guardian, its soul. All I did was give it a shape. But it belongs to you—every breeze, every star, every heartbeat of this place... answers to you. Furthermore, those stars–"
He points at the glowing spots in the sky “–they aren’t just dots, they are true stars with planets revolving around them, all for you to explore and shape, all represent a side of you that I see. This is why no sector in the simulation room can handle this place, that’s why I must built it here in this realm of dream, so that you can see the world I made for you at its purest shape, where all limits are gone”
Akeno stood frozen for a breath, trembling not from fear, but from the depth of what she was witnessing—what she was feeling . Arto’s presence behind her, his hands around hers, the way the realm bent not from command but from connection —it was as if every fiber of the dream had been stitched with her soul in mind.
Her voice returned in a hush. “You... you saw all of me.” She looked up again at the vast firmament, stars glowing like fireflies caught in a divine stillness. “Even the parts I never showed anyone.”
She turned her head slightly toward him, her voice barely more than a breath. “And you loved them all.”
Arto’s arms slowly slid from her wrists to wrap around her waist, pulling her just a bit closer, resting his forehead to the side of her head, a content hum rumbling in his chest. “Every piece. The storm, the serenity. The priestess and the thunder.”
She let out a gentle laugh, shaky, touched with tears she didn’t realize had gathered in her eyes. “How is it that I , the one who invades dreams… have become the dream now?”
He smiled softly at her. “Because dreams are made of truth dressed in wonder. And you, Akeno… you were always both.”
Then, the sky shimmered again—and one of the stars, a brilliant violet one at the edge of the constellation, pulsed softly and broke away from the portrait. It drifted downward, slowing as it approached them like a blessing from the heavens, hovering between their hands. Akeno watched it with parted lips, eyes wide with reverence.
Arto whispered, “A new star, born from your presence here. Touch it.”
With a slow, unsure motion, she did—and the star dissolved into soft light, curling around her fingers, embedding warmth deep in her chest. “What was that?” she asked, awestruck.
“A memory, sealed in stardust,” he said gently. “Your first true imprint on this world. From now on, every moment you spend here will bloom a new star—each one holding a reflection of you. Your laughter, your tears, your hopes... your dreams.”
Akeno turned fully to face him now, arms encircling his neck, eyes alight with something far brighter than wonder.
“Arto,” she whispered, her voice shaking from the sheer swell of emotion, “I don’t have words to thank you for this.”
“You don’t need to,” he said, leaning in. “Just dream with me.”
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Akeno gazing the stars together)
Arto and Akeno sit near a lake to rest with him hugging her close "Akeno, there is something I wanted to tell you, a confession you could call. But first, I want to ask you something, Akeno, how have things been between you and your father Baraqiel since the day you started mending your relationship, since the day you changed how you look at him?"
Akeno snuggles deeper into his embrace. "It was delightful, really, I never thought I needed him that much in my life, and now, having him back, I don't want to let him go. I want to make up for him, for all the baseless hatred I threw at him when my mother died."
Her voice trails off as she looks down the lake, where she sees the reflections of the old memories appearing before her eyes, of the day she lashed out at Baraqiel when he came to save her from Himejima clan. Her lips unconsciously displays a bitter smile "And how steadfast he was with his love, for this stupid, ungrateful child"
Arto gently tightened his embrace around her, resting his chin lightly against the crown of her head, his voice soft—low enough to honor the heaviness in hers. “He never once blamed you, never you, he only blamed himself for what happened. I could see it in his eyes, every time he watched you from afar… even when you refused to meet him. All he ever wanted was your happiness, and your forgiveness.”
Akeno nodded slowly, her fingers curling slightly against his chest, as if trying to ground herself in his warmth. “I was too lost in grief… and I thought he didn’t hurt like I did. That he moved on. That he didn’t care.”
She let out a breath that was half sigh, half confession. “But he did care. He always did. I just didn’t want to see it, because that would’ve meant facing the guilt. And now, every time he smiles at me, every time he calls me his daughter again... I remember how long I denied him that.”
Arto looked down at her, his eyes calm but brimming with a depth only someone who’s seen darkness and chosen light could hold. “You were hurting. A child in pain doesn’t need perfection—they need understanding. And Baraqiel… he understood . He never gave up, because no matter how much you pushed him away, you are still his little daughter, the only family he has left.”
Akeno blinked as a tear shimmered in the corner of her eye, and she gave a quiet, broken laugh. “What are you getting at, my beloved Abyssgard? What is your confession? Change the subject or else this realm will suffer from severe flood of my tears”
“Alright, alright, here goes–” Arto brushes a strand of her hair back behind her ear with gentle fingers “–do you remember a nightmare of mine you journeyed in, where you saw me killed Baraqiel, along with all of other Fallen Angels, where you saw how he muttered your and your mother's names as his last words? The dream that made you change your mind about your father?”
Akeno’s breath caught in her throat.
Her body, once so relaxed in Arto’s embrace, tensed slightly as her eyes widened, flickering with the memory like a candle struggling in a storm. She nodded slowly, almost involuntarily, as if the memory had never truly left her.
“I remember…” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the gentle ripple of the lake. “It was… one of the darkest dreams I’ve ever walked through with you. That Arto, the one in the nightmare… he was drowning in something I couldn’t reach fast enough to stop. The emptiness in your eyes—it was like he had no emotion or humanity at all, like a…living weapon.”
The memory was a scar on her heart—a vivid, wrenching moment etched into the depths of both her soul and his. She remembered every shadow, every scream, every drop of blood from that nightmare. Most of all, she remembered the look on Arto’s face in that dream—not hatred, but emptiness . A weapon, not a man. A storm that had lost its reason to stop.
The memory of the Fallen Angels and their people falling one by one under Arto and his soldiers' blades and weapons, especially Baraqiel, she still remembers how Arto’s sword slowly descended down Baraqiel’s severely injured body, how he tightly clutched the picture of her and her mother in his hand, whispering his weak apologies.
That moment made all the hatred she has harboured towards him crumble, she knew it was just a memory, she knew that Baraqiel wasn’t her true father, but the pain she felt was so real, so real that she cried her eyes out seeing the man’s body went limp, life leaving his eyes when she could only kneel there like a phantom, unable to do anything to an event that has already happened. .
Arto held her closer as her words fell into the quiet dreamscape, her voice trembled like the surface of the lake they sat beside—disturbed by emotion that ran deep and far too real. His arms tightened protectively around her as she recounted that nightmare, his jaw set not in pride, but in quiet grief. He hadn’t spoken yet. He couldn’t—not when she was giving voice to a wound he helped carve.
Akeno’s breath was soft against his chest as she continued, her words raw with remembrance.
“That dream changed me,” she said, eyes gazing not at the lake but into the memory itself, as if she could still see Baraqiel’s body in her mind’s eye. “It wasn’t just sorrow or fear that broke me. It was the regret . That I had hated him… for so long. Blamed him. And yet… in the end, all he did was love me. Die loving me.”
Her fingers clutched at his shirt, knuckles pale, as though she were clinging to the only anchor she had left in this sea of memory. But what came after was even more depressing, she saw how a version of herself, a little Akeno and her mother Shuri, was killed in their home by those from Himejima clan, she saw the house was set ablaze, she couldn’t save them, she couldn’t do anything.
She could only watch helplessly until the fire died down, when she found 2 charred corpses inside the house, of hers and Shuri, it broke her right then and there, at that moment, she experienced that helplessness her father might have suffered from. Arto felt her tremble in his arms.
Not the kind of trembling that came from cold or even fear—but the kind born from a soul reeling, shattered open by the echo of a pain that wasn’t hers… but easily could have been. His hand slid up her back, steady and firm, as if his touch could hold together what her heart was barely managing to keep from crumbling.
Akeno's breath hitched as she tried to speak. But no words came at first—just the tightening of her grip, fingers fisting into his shirt as though letting go might make it all real again. Her face was pressed so tightly against him, as if trying to fuse their beings together just to stay whole.
“I saw…” she finally whispered, voice breaking, “I saw myself. A version of me. Just a girl. With Mother…”
Arto closed his eyes, his jaw tightening, but he didn’t speak—didn’t interrupt. He let her continue, knowing these words needed to come out like poison leaving the wound.
“They came… the clan… they set the house on fire. I… I couldn’t stop it. I couldn’t do anything . I screamed, I ran through the flames, but it was too late. Mama held the little me so close, protecting her even as the fire took them both.” Her voice cracked, brittle and raw. “When it was all over… I found them. Their bodies. Burned… gone. And I—”
Her voice failed her again, and she shook in his arms.
“I felt it, Arto,” she sobbed, “I felt his pain. Father’s pain. All of it. Watching and unable to change a damn thing. That kind of helplessness… It's worse than dying. And if he hadn’t come, if he had died somewhere without being able to come to save me, I would have…”
“That’s my confession, my love…what you saw, what you experienced, that nightmare, that past of mine, half of it…was made…by me. From Baraqiel, he didn't look like your father, and he didn't have a family, let alone a daughter named Akeno and a wife named Shuri. The part where you saw your house burning with my world's version of you and your mother inside...none of that was real, I made them all up.”
Akeno’s breath caught in her throat. She went utterly still in Arto’s embrace, like time itself had paused around them.
Her wide eyes searched his face, disbelief and emotion crashing like waves behind them. “You… what…?” gusts of wind rise at the words of Akeno, dark clouds start forming in the sky as Akeno’s eyes lay on Arto.
Arto didn’t flinch. His voice, though gentle, carried the weight of the truth he’d been holding for so long. “I created that part of the dream, Akeno. It wasn’t part of any past or memory from my world—it wasn’t real. I shaped it… because I needed you to see through my eyes. To feel what I believed Baraqiel must’ve felt. The pain of losing you. Of failing to protect what mattered most.”
Her lips trembled, eyes brimming again—but not with the same kind of pain as before. This time, it was something deeper… more tangled. “Why…? Why would you do that to me?” The sky gets darker as lightning starts striking the ground, following Akeno’s emotion.
The ground beneath them rumbled faintly, the once-tranquil lake now trembling with tiny ripples. Sakura petals were whipped from their branches, dancing violently in the building storm. The dream realm—so deeply tied to Akeno’s spirit—was reacting to her, to the swirl of betrayal, confusion, and heartbreak churning in her soul.
Arto stood firm, even as the wind roared louder around them, even as bolts of lightning lashed out into the sky like spears thrown by a furious goddess.
“I knew it would hurt you,” he said, his voice calm but unwavering, barely heard over the thunder now rolling in above. “I knew it would make you question everything. But I also knew you wouldn’t listen to Baraqiel if you didn't see what he saw, didn't experience what he went through, didn't feel the pain he felt, to reach an understanding with him, that he has lost as much as you did, so that you can look at him with more merciful gaze and talk to him with less hostility”
Akeno stared at him, her breath heaving, fists clenched at her sides now. The storm howled around them like her heart had been ripped open—and in many ways, it had. The dream realm, their sanctuary, had turned into a tempest reflecting her soul in turmoil.
“You lied to me…” Her voice cracked like the thunder overhead. “You manipulated me. You made me grieve something that never even happened!”
Arto didn’t step back. He didn’t defend himself in desperation or plead. He simply stood there, letting the storm lash at him, accepting it—accepting her rage.
“I did,” he said plainly. “I crafted a fiction that cut deep. Because I believed that pain would open a door that words never could.”
“That wasn’t your choice to make!” she roared, and in that moment, the sky split with a bolt so bright it scorched the clouds into white. Her aura flared like a divine tempest, electricity crackling at her fingertips.
"If I didn't step in, would you ever make a choice, would you ever face that haunting past of yours and mend your relationship with your father?"
The lightning flashed behind Akeno, a furious halo casting her silhouette in raw, divine fury. The dream realm pulsed with her heartbeat, trembling with her grief. Her words weren't just questions—they were judgments , laced with betrayal so sharp it stung the soul.
Arto’s expression didn’t falter. No fear. No denial. Just the steady storm within his eyes that refused to look away from her— even when she looked ready to tear heaven and earth apart .
“You’re right,” he said, voice low beneath the roar of wind and thunder. “It wasn’t my choice to make. And I’ll never pretend it was.”
He stepped forward—just one step. Just enough to stand within the electric arcs now dancing dangerously around her skin.
“But Akeno… if I hadn’t done it—if I hadn’t broken through that wall—you might’ve never seen him . You might’ve carried that pain your whole life, worn it like armor, bled through it without ever knowing there was another way.”
His voice cracked then, the first fissure in his composure. “Do you think I wanted to hurt you? That it didn’t kill me to design the fire that took your mother and your younger self in that vision? That it didn’t tear me apart knowing I planted that memory in your heart, just to show you a reflection of your father's pain?”
Akeno’s jaw trembled, her aura wavering—not from lack of power, but from the weight of everything she was feeling. Arto doesn’t stop, he weaves his hand and the once pitch black lake comes to life. "Look at how happy you were with your father when you came to understand him, his regret, his grief, and pain. Akeno, please tell me, "
Akeno’s eyes widened as the vivid memories unfurled before her, each scene a beautiful tapestry of moments she had shared with Baraqiel—moments of love, of connection, of healing. She watched herself laughing with her father, sharing the warmth of a home she had once believed to be shattered beyond repair. She saw herself, glowing with happiness, cooking for him, serving him her mother’s miso soup—her father’s face soft with contentment, the same smile that had long since been absent from her heart.
Then the memory shifted to her and Baraqiel training together—his hands steadying hers as she wielded her powers, his words encouraging and filled with pride. She had been happy , hadn’t she? Happy to learn, happy to be with him, happy to feel the warmth of his presence beside her once again, like a father should be.
Her heart ached as another memory bloomed: Baraqiel and Akeno sitting at Shuri’s grave, side by side in silent understanding, watching the sun set. That was when the weight of their shared grief had been softened, even if only a little, by the quiet comfort of their companionship.
And then, the dance—the joyous, sparkling moment from just earlier that night, when they had danced together, sharing a brief, pure joy. The weight of the Rating Game victory lifted from Akeno’s shoulders, her heart light as she twirled around in her father’s arms, smiling with a freedom she hadn’t known she needed.
Arto’s voice broke through the flood of memories. “Isn’t it better this way, Akeno? Isn’t it better with him around, caring for you, loving you like you deserve? Or is it better hiding behind that wall of grief and accusation?”
The storm around them seemed to fade, slowly. The winds had lost their fury, the sky stills as the last crackles of lightning faded into the distance. Akeno’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she looked at the memories, at the pure love and connection that had blossomed despite everything that had come before.
Her fingers clenched, nails pressing into the soft fabric of Arto’s shirt as she struggled with the emotions inside her—confusion, anger, pain, but also something else… something she hadn’t allowed herself to feel. Hope. Hope that perhaps, despite everything she had suffered, she could still find this kind of love. Not just from Baraqiel, but from the world she had once closed herself off from.
“Is it better this way?” The question echoed in her mind like a whisper from the deepest corners of her heart. “Is it better to hold onto the pain and the grief of the past? Or is it better to step forward, to forgive, to embrace this love that has always been waiting for me?”
Akeno’s breath trembled in her throat, caught between the final remnants of storm and the hush that follows rain. The question pulsed in her mind—not just Arto’s voice, but her own soul finally asking itself .
The lake was still now, holding the reflections of the memories like sacred offerings. Her past was no longer just sorrow. It had color. Warmth. Life . All because she had allowed herself, even if manipulated at first, to step out from behind that wall of anguish and see her father for who he truly was—a man broken, but not cruel; flawed, but full of love.
Her grip on Arto’s shirt loosened. Her fingers relaxed.
And then, without warning, she laughed—a soft, broken laugh, shaky with lingering tears but edged with something real. Something new.
“I hate how right you are,” she whispered, her voice catching. “I hate that you did it the way you did… but I needed it. I just didn’t know I did.”
Arto’s eyes flickered with a fragile glimmer of relief, but he remained silent—because he knew this was her moment, not his.
Akeno turned to look at the fading storm clouds above, now streaked with soft light. She could still feel the storm in her chest, but its edges had dulled. The walls she’d built were not shattered—they were opened . Cracked enough for the light to seep through.
“I can’t forget the pain. I can’t pretend it didn’t shape me. But…” she paused, then looked down at the lake again, at the dance, at the grave, at her smile— a real one —on her face. “I can choose to stop letting it define me.”
She reached up, cupping Arto’s face gently with one trembling hand. “You made me see. You made me see. And though I don’t forgive the means… I can’t deny the truth it brought me.”
Her voice grew softer, but more certain. “Yes. It is better this way.”
The dream realm shimmered with that admission—gentle waves returning to the shore, petals floating gently once more. Peace hadn’t returned entirely, but the path to it was no longer hidden behind fury and grief. She had taken the first step.
Akeno sighs "I know you did this out of your immense love for me, but making me seeing the death of my younger self, my mother and father is still unacceptable, don't get me wrong, I appreciate its effect on my relationship with my father, it broke the wall between us and because of that we are more than happy now as a family, but..."
She continued, and that single word lingered in the air like the last echo of thunder in a clearing sky. “You still made me feel something I should never have had to. You made me mourn the death of a family I still had. You made me grieve myself, Arto.”
Akeno’s voice cracked, but she kept her gaze steady, even as her lips trembled. “That dream might have helped me heal. But it hurt me in ways you didn’t ask permission for. And love, no matter how deep or noble, doesn’t give you the right to do that.”
Arto finally lifted his eyes to hers—pain there, yes, but also something more: understanding. And guilt. He didn’t try to interrupt. He didn’t look away.
“I’m not angry that you loved me enough to help me,” she whispered, tears gently sliding down her cheeks. “I’m hurt that you didn’t trust me enough to walk that path with me , instead of forcing me down it with illusions and fire.”
Silence again. But it wasn’t cold. It was full—of honesty, of sorrow, of hard truths that still clung to love.
Arto stepped closer—not to excuse, not to explain, but to be near. To show that he was listening.
“I’m sorry,” he said, his voice quieter than the wind now. “Not for loving you that much. But for not believing you could’ve made it there on your own. That was my failure.”
He gently reached out, his fingertips brushing the edge of her hand, unsure if he had the right anymore to take it fully. “I will never use your heart like that again. Not even if it’s to save you. I swear it.”
Akeno looked at his hand, trembling slightly, then at his face—so vulnerable now, so raw with regret and longing. Her hand lifted, and she placed it over his. Not as a gesture of forgiveness. Not yet. But of trust. A step forward. “I know you won’t, but still, should it be a punishment for the naughty Abyssgard, for playing with my heart, memory and emotion?” she grins at him with that same sadistic smile.
Arto blinked—half-wary, half-wondering—at the sudden twist in her tone. Her grin, that infamous sadistic sparkle in her eyes, was unmistakable. The storm had passed, but what was coming now might be even more dangerous... in a very different way.
He gave a slow, almost comically cautious glance at her hand resting over his, then back to her expression—the one that usually came right before thunder inside the bedroom.
“Oh no,” he muttered with the softest edge of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “I recognize that look. That’s not forgiveness. That’s premeditated suffering.”
Akeno leaned in, their foreheads nearly touching, her voice low and deliciously sinister. “Suffering can be… cathartic. Don’t you think, my dear Arto?” Her fingers curled a little tighter around his. “Especially for those who sin with good intentions. It’s only fair.”
“I confessed, didn’t I?” Arto said with a dramatic sigh, already bracing himself. “Penance should be symbolic. Something light. Something survivable.”
“Oh but where’s the fun in that?” she whispered with a smirk, electricity subtly sparking across her fingertips. “Let’s see, you made me go through fake memory that cause real emotional damage, so it’s only natural you suffer from the same thing, so that you can learn that emotions of someone, especially your lover, aren’t something to play with”
She presses her finger into his chest with a mischievous smile "Here is how things will go my beloved Abyssgard, I'll be mad at you, truly mad at you for what you did, taking away my decision, playing with my memory, emotion and heart. I will kick you out of here and start the silent treatment from the now, to when we are awake and so on"
Arto stared at her, lips parting in disbelief, and for a second—just one second—the fearless, brooding Abyssgard looked like a scolded schoolboy who's just been told recess was canceled for the rest of the year.
He blinked once. Twice. “Wait. You’re serious.”
Akeno’s eyes narrowed, that spark of lightning at her fingertips dancing with righteous wrath. “Deadly serious,” she replied, voice laced with finality and the sharp edge of divine judgment. “No talking. No touching. No dreamy balcony makeouts. No midnight cuddles. Consider this your emotional boot camp.”
Arto’s face dropped further with each word, the realization of just how real this punishment was going to be settling like a weight across his shoulders. “Akeno, come on… I designed pain, not to cause it—but to heal. You said yourself it helped. You even smiled— you danced —with your father!”
“And now you can dance with silence,” Akeno said sweetly, a perfectly terrifying smile tugging at her lips. She tapped his chest lightly with two fingers, and the dream began to shudder—the lake fading, the storm clouds dispersing into a quiet night sky that no longer welcomed him.
“No kisses, no holding hands, no sweet nothings whispered into the wind,” she continued, her voice like honey over steel. “You’ll have the honor of watching me ignore you in three separate realms —the dream world, the real world, and every text message you try to send.”
Arto let out a dramatic, exaggerated groan. “Akeno, you’re cruel. You were born to torture me.”
She leaned in, brushing her lips a hair’s breadth from his, just enough for him to feel what he would not be getting for a very long while. “I was born to love. And you made me grieve the pain that wasn’t mine.” She stepped back then, slowly, deliberately, the dream fog parting around her like a veil.
“So suffer, Abyssgard, suffer for me like how you made me go through those painful memories. But,......” she tilts her head playfully, gliding her hand along the scar on his chest “...here is the perk for you, because I love you so much, you can craft me a gift”
Akeno weaves her hand as a delicate hair ornament is projected into the air "Craft this by your own hands and gift it to me when you want the treatment to stop, but this will only work after day 3 of the silent treatment, and if you don't suffer enough in those 3 days, I will not accept that gift, alright?"
Arto puts on a smirk before his lover’s challenge “Oh my lovely Akeno, I crafted this dreamscape for you and you think this little ornament can bug me? Fine, you will get something better than this, I promise you, my love. Next time, put up something more ambitious for me to do, alright?”
Akeno raised an eyebrow, her arms crossing as the dream’s winds gently twirled around her like a crown of divine judgment. “ Better , hmm?” she repeated, voice silken with danger, “You better mean that, my prideful Abyssgard, because if you show up on day three with anything less than breathtaking, I will make it day thirty.”
Her fingers snapped, and the delicate hair ornament spun slowly between them again—a lovely thing of crimson glass, lightning-bolt motifs wrapped around sakura petals, shaped in a way that could only be called divinely demanding . “It must be made by your hands, forged with your own emotions. Not summoned, not imagined— crafted . Understand?”
Arto nods slightly towards her with a grin of a victor “Consider it done, do you want to add anything else to it? I’m having quite some idea for what I will put on that ornament, a test you could call,"
Arto comes closer to the holographic ornament and touches it slightly, a glowing crystal appears at the center of the piece, this causes Akeno's eyes to widen before its glorious but gentle purple light "have you ever heard of Silmarils, my dear Akeno?”
Akeno’s brows lifted at the name, curiosity flickering behind the stormy spark in her eyes. The soft purple light of the crystal reflected in her irises, giving her an almost celestial glow as she stepped closer to the floating ornament. Her voice dropped to a quiet, intrigued murmur. “ Silmarils… the jewels of the ancient world, right? From your favorite tale of old... forged from the light of the Two Trees of Valinor.” She narrowed her eyes, suspicion mingling with awe. “That’s not just a fantasy trinket you’re adding, is it?”
Arto’s smirk deepened, just a touch more reverent now. “Not this time,” he said softly, his fingers brushing the light again. “This one won’t be made from the Trees… but from something truer . I’m going to forge this Silmaril from the essence of our shared dreams, from every moment I’ve held you, loved you, hurt you. It will glow with our memories—real ones—and only light up when you hold it.”
Arto reaches into the sky of the dreamscape, wrapping his fingers around the brightest star and the next moment, the combination of golden and purple light is on his palm, he shows it to Akeno "This star contains the memory of us here, from the first moment we headed inside, we exploring the dream realm I made for you, "
The star flickers slightly as the memory starts playing itself, the moment Akeno walks into the place with expectations to see a world made to resemble her in his eyes, the dance as they twirl around each other when the world reacts to her movements and emotions.
"till the revelation of mine about the fake memories, " the storms rages as the agony in her eyes rose, the thunder strikes, the tornado and the darkened sky as she yelled at Arto for doing such things to her, her tears were full of disbelief and betrayal as she looked at the man who she gave her heart to, now making her experiencing the pain that is not hers or anyone’s..
"your realization and understanding, " the storm in the star slowly subsided as Akeno tries to piece herself together to finally understand with tears falling down her cheeks, 'it's better this way' her mutter break the storm and bring back the old beauty, but not in the same way, it's laced with the aftermath of the catastrophe, of the wrath bestowed down by the goddess of thunder upon the man who broke her heart.
"finally, you standing before me, send me to my sentence with the gift as the key out of the punishment, all those emotions, all will be placed into the core of the Silmaril-like crystal, to complete the hair ornament you desire, to make my plea for your forgiveness, to ask the woman I have hurt the most in my harem to look at me again and love me like how I love her"
Arto brings the star closer to Akeno "Now I only need your permission, permission from the master of this dream realm, to take this star with me to the waking world, so that I can start the crafting of my atonement"
Akeno comes closer to him with a mischievous yet playful grin as she places her hand on the star hovering between them. The star pulsed between their hands—gold and violet flaring gently at their touch, like it recognized its makers.
Akeno tilted her head, strands of her midnight hair slipping over her shoulder as her eyes met his—those amethyst eyes, fierce yet warm, calculating yet full of unspoken affection. The same eyes that once crackled with divine fury now shimmered with something else entirely.
She leaned in slightly, lips brushing near his ear as she whispered with a husky purr, “You speak like a poet sentenced to death… yet you beg with the hands of a craftsman and the heart of a lover.” Her fingers traced along the edge of the glowing star, teasing it, testing it—as if feeling the weight of his memories, his regrets, his devotion all coalescing into this one singular piece of light.
Then she pulled back slowly, her hand still hovering above his.
“Permission granted,” she said softly, her voice almost reverent—but there was that grin again, curling like lightning on the horizon. “But…”
Her fingertip pressed into the star, and it flared brighter, almost purring in her palm as if thrilled by her touch.
“You must earn its final form,” she murmured, drawing a symbol of lightning over the surface, sealing her essence into it. “You will forge this in the waking world with everything you've shown me… and more. The pain. The passion. The honesty. I’ll know if it’s real, Arto.”
The light surged—accepting her mark. A trace of her divine energy laced into it now, binding it not just to her, but to the bond they shared—tarnished, tested, but not broken.
Akeno took one last look at the star, then at Arto. “Let’s see if the man who made me cry in a dream... can make me smile in reality.”
She places a kiss on his cheek "Now go, darling, let me see you suffer while forging me the most beautiful gem in this world, your first day of silent treatment starts...now" She waves her hand as the ground under Arto's feet crumble, drawing him down the darkness.
Notes:
To be continued.....
Chapter 40: The gems
Summary:
Arto's productive suffering
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
3rd POV
Arto wakes up on his bed in the waking world. He looks around to see Akeno is nowhere to be found, she has left the room, leaving him Rias, Nami, Robin, Albedo and Grayfia in bed "So it has started, my productive suffering" he sighs as he thinks to himself, trying to lift his body up but no use, Rias is pinning his torso down as she snuggles into his body, his arms are also occupied by Robin and Nami, they are all sleeping soundly, unaware of what happened between him and Akeno.
"Now where is it?" Arto looks down his right hand to see the star is there, glowing slightly in his palm. "Good morning master~ " Grayfia rises sleepily from the far left side of the bed "you're early, like usual, let's have our morning ritual, I've been missing your warmth the whole night"
Grayfia comes to the place where Akeno left off and takes that position, not minding the glowing orb inside his palm, she cups her face with her hands and pulls him into a long, lingering kiss, the morning ritual for the head maid
Arto closed his eyes into the kiss, letting the familiar, composed heat of Grayfia’s lips offer momentary solace—but even in that moment, his fingers subconsciously curled around the glowing star in his palm, like a man clutching the weight of his sentence.
When Grayfia finally pulled back, her silver hair cascading down her bare shoulder, she looked at him with that usual regal calm… but there was a flicker of curiosity in her eyes. “You’re unusually stiff this morning, Arto. And not the good kind,” she teased with a smirk, brushing a strand of his hair back.
He gave a half-hearted chuckle, lifting his head slightly only to be yanked back down again as Rias’s arms tightened around his chest like a sleepy lioness. “I’m stiff because I’ve just been sentenced to three days of emotional torture by the love of my life,” he muttered.
Grayfia blinked once. “Ah… she knows.”
“She knows,” he repeated, letting his head fall back onto the pillow dramatically with Grayfia laying her head on his chest "Now I have something to make to atone my mistake" Arto opens his palm as the star glows gently, Grayfia takes the star into her palm as she lays back onto his chest and looks at it to see what happened between her master and Akeno.
Grayfia lets out a sigh "I see, you confessed to her, not only that, you left us out of this to take all her wrath yourself, another selfless action for our women, my love, if Akeno knows we are aware of what you did but not telling her, things would get more complicated"
Arto let out a soft breath "All you did was letting me do what I did, that illusion was my idea and doing after all, pulling you all in would make the matter worse, so let me bear this alone. After this, you will be free to talk about this fabricated dream I made, maybe even admitting about you knowing about it prior to her, she won't be as angry, but do it slowly and not get her overwhelmed"
Grayfia gently closed her fingers around the glowing star, its light illuminating her face like soft dawn on polished silver. She stared at it for a long moment, her eyes scanning not just the flickers of memory, but the emotions etched within—her lips parted slightly at the storm Akeno summoned, at the wrath in her tears, the betrayal in her voice. She saw Arto's unwavering stance, the guilt, the desperation, the vulnerability. And finally, she saw the spark of forgiveness yet to come—bound not in words, but in creation.
She exhaled slowly, then leaned her cheek against his chest, hearing the steady thrum of a heart that bore too much too often. “You truly are hopeless, my love,” she whispered, not unkindly. “So eager to bleed for us, you never think twice about the wounds you leave on yourself.”
Arto gave a half-smile, his fingers brushing through her silver strands. “Someone has to be the wall when the storm hits, right? And I am more than willing to be that wall to help Akeno heal fully from her past.”
Grayfia tilted her face up, her tone softer now, touched with affection only those closest to her ever knew. “You took her grief and twisted it—yes, for a good reason, but still. You knew the line and you crossed it. But... Akeno didn’t banish you. She gave you a path back to her.”
She holds the star to his face “What did she ask you to do with this twinkling star here?”
Arto gazed at the glowing star in Grayfia’s hand, its pulse reflecting in his eyes like a distant heartbeat that belonged to more than just him. Slowly, reverently, he reached out and curled his fingers back around it. The light reacted to his touch—flickering softly, like it recognized him.
“She asked me to craft her a gift,” he murmured, voice low and weighted. “A hair ornament… forged by my own hands. No magic shortcuts. No summoning tricks. And I have to suffer through the process from both making it and enduring her silent treatment”
Arto twitches his eyes for the shape of the ornament to appear, Grayfia’s eyes widened seeing it “I see, a delicate, unique ornament, very…Akeno.”
Grayfia traces her hand along the holographic image of the ornament with a slight smile "I wonder when did she have the time to design this? Did she make it on the spot or is this a gift she has been desiring to ask you to make for your relationship anniversary?”
"Yeahhh, we've been in love for a year now, right? And the exact date is.....3 days from now…" Arto lets out a smirk "I see...."
Grayfia’s brows lifted, her cool expression momentarily giving way to an amused smirk. “Three days… her silent treatment ends on the exact day of your anniversary?” She folded her arms beneath her chest, the corners of her lips twitching upward as she tilted her head slightly. “How very Akeno of her. She’s punishing you and setting you up to win her back in the most poetic, dramatic fashion possible.”
Arto sighed, dragging a hand through his tousled hair as he looked down at the glowing star in his palm. “She’s always been a symphony of thunder and tenderness. And this... this is her way of reminding me that love is never without consequence. But also that redemption—earned honestly—is still within reach.”
Grayfia leaned in and kissed his temple once more, this time softer, more reverent. “Then let’s not waste any more time. You’ve got three days to pour your heart, your regret, and your love into this piece. I’ll prepare you a place—something quiet, secluded, a forge untouched by magic but surrounded by beauty. Somewhere worthy of crafting this apology.”
Arto tries to get up but his body was pinned down by the ladies around him “Yeah, I’d love to start my productive suffering, but….Grayfia, a little help, please”
She raised an elegant brow at the sight. “Oh dear… the consequences of being too beloved,” she said dryly, stepping in with that graceful, efficient glide unique to her. “Very well, Master. Allow me.”
With a few expertly calculated movements, Grayfia approached the bed. First, she gently shifted Nami’s arm from around Arto’s, placing a body-length pillow in its place. Nami murmured sleepily but didn’t stir. Then she turned to Robin, carefully easing her fingers open from his hand before adjusting the blanket to fool her senses into thinking he was still there.
“Now for the dangerous one,” Grayfia murmured, kneeling beside Rias, who was nuzzled into Arto’s chest like a lazy dragon guarding her hoard.
“Rias is a light sleeper when she’s snuggling,” Arto warned under his breath.
Grayfia smirked faintly. “Yes, but fortunately for you, I’m the head maid of this house and I’m more than experienced in this”
With a soft, practiced motion, she slipped one arm under Rias’s shoulders, the other sliding a pillow into place as she gently moved the crimson-haired princess off of him and into her own warm cocoon. Rias frowned slightly in her sleep but sighed in contentment as Grayfia tucked her in with motherly finesse.
With the battlefield cleared, Arto sat up at last, exhaling like a man freed from an emotional avalanche and a physical trap.
Grayfia offered her hand to help him stand. “There. Your suffering may now commence in earnest. Shall I prepare the forge?”
Arto took her hand, grinning tiredly. “There is no need, you can go on with your maid duty now. I won’t be joining you for lunch so bring me my food when it’s noon, and I’ll be back when the sun sets for our usual private bath, so help me prepare the water, alright?”
Grayfia’s expression didn't shift much—she was always the composed one, the pillar of elegance and restraint—but her eyes did glimmer faintly with something softer. A secret satisfaction, perhaps, at being included in his schedule even amidst self-imposed exile.
“As you wish, Master,” she said, bowing slightly, the silver waterfall of her hair spilling forward with the motion. “I will ensure your meals are nourishing and your bath… restorative.”
She straightened, smoothing out the hem of her maid attire with graceful efficiency. “If you require anything during your silent sentence—materials, solitude, or perhaps someone to glare disapprovingly at anyone who tries to flirt with you—I will be but a word away.”
She began gliding toward the door, but paused just before stepping out, glancing over her shoulder with a mischievous flick of her gaze. “And do not forget… Though you are to suffer, that doesn’t mean you must suffer alone. Some of us quite enjoy watching you squirm, after all.”
With that, she exited with silent footsteps, leaving Arto alone in the soft morning quiet of his mansion estate, the glowing star still resting in his palm—his task ahead, and three long days of silence echoing like a bell in his heart.
Meanwhile
Akeno plops on the bed of her room, the one she rarely uses because she always sleeps with Arto and the girls. She has been giggling non-stop from the moment she wakes up, she was about to see her man at his manliest state, going through hardship, and not just any hardship, hardships to craft her the most beautiful, heartfelt, guilt-drenched gift this world has ever seen, and it'll likely come at her anniversary with him
Akeno fell onto the plush mattress with all the dramatic flair of a woman absolutely thriving in her divine mischief. Her raven hair splayed around her like a silken halo as she giggled into the pillow, kicking her legs slightly like a schoolgirl who just pulled off the perfect prank.
“Ohh~ he’s going to suffer so beautifully, ” she purred into the silence, hugging the soft sheets to her chest. “And on our anniversary, no less. The poor fool probably just realized it too…”
She rolled over, gazing at the ceiling, where faint traces of dream-magic still lingered from their shared dream realm. The corners of her lips curled up, wicked and satisfied.
“Three days of silence. Three days where he’ll be tortured by his own heart and guilt—and forced to craft something real for once with his hands, not his magic. Oh, how delicious it will be to see that look in his eyes when he finally presents it to me…”
Her fingers drifted to her neck, trailing along her skin as if imagining already the moment she would pin that ornament into her hair. Her smirk softened for just a second—just a blink of vulnerability.
“…Because I know him. He’ll pour his whole soul into it.”
Akeno closed her eyes, a small hum escaping her lips. She might be punishing him, yes—but only because she could. Because he let her. Because that trust ran so deep between them, even pain became a kind of love letter.
“Let’s see how far your love for me can go, Arto,” she whispered, a devilish spark flickering in her voice. “And when you show me that ornament, when you give me your heart again—I’ll kiss you like it’s the first time all over again.”
Akeno giggled to herself as she wiggled her fingers in the air, a delicate magic sigil blooming into existence before her. It shimmered like a mirror laced with violet lightning, tuning itself to the signature of one very determined man in the simulation room.
In the heart of the simulation room, bathed in golden light from conjured orbs and arcane torches, Arto stood with a serious poise, sleeves rolled up as materials hovered like obedient stars around him. Strips of ethereal metal, woven threads of enchanted lightning, petals frozen in time and glass—each piece floated into his reach as he meticulously assembled the frame of Akeno’s divine ornament.
Beads of sweat ran down his neck as he carefully shaped the lightning-bolt motifs to blend seamlessly with the sakura petals. His hands trembled not from the magic, but the emotion—each gesture was a prayer for forgiveness, each curve carved from regret and love.
Akeno squealed silently behind her hand like a kid watching her favorite drama play out live. "Oh~ he’s struggling. My poor little chaos blacksmith." Her finger rubbing her lips playfully as she watches him working “Hmm, how do I make it harder for him? Ohh~ right, making adjustment midway like an annoying customer, let's see if his annoyance could outweigh his love for me"
But before she could turn on the speaker " Wait, but this is silent treatment, I can't do that, unless.... " she reaches into the control panel on her magical screen to see an icon 'Arto's workshop request service', Akeno smirks "This will do," as she starts writing down adjustments she wants for the ornament and send them to Arto "I'll wait until he finish one request then I'll change my design 180, fufufu~I can already imagine his face now" she giggles.
Her nails tapped rhythmically against her lip as she began to type in the most innocent-sounding update request:
🌸 “Hi~ Just a tiny adjustment, dear craftsman 💕 I think the lightning bolt should curl clockwise instead of counterclockwise. It gives more flow to the petals. Hope it’s not too much~ 💋”
She hit “Send,” then kicked her legs up in the air as she rolled onto her stomach, face flushed with anticipation. Then she sees Arto looking at the sent request and adjusts the ornament immediately according to her request. "He took the bait, now let's twist my beloved a little more" She waits until he completes the changes as she makes another demand.
As soon as the modification was complete, Akeno watched Arto wipe a bit of sweat from his brow, focusing like a master craftsman on the delicate threading of lightning-shaped motifs along the sakura-petal ridges. The golden and violet hues of the star crystal pulsed subtly with his emotions—frustration carefully managed beneath the weight of devotion.
Akeno pressed both hands to her cheeks, biting back a squeal. “He’s trying so hard not to curse my name right now. So noble. So tragic. So mine. ”
With a delighted hum, she went back to the interface, humming like a schoolgirl about to click "send" on a cursed email.
🔥 “Umm~ slight change of heart again 💖 Instead of lightning curling around sakura petals, can we try… fiery feathers dancing through a frozen wind swirl? You know~ to represent our passionate but sometimes frosty love~ teehee 💕✨ Thanks, my patient little chaos forger~ you’re doing amazing 💋”
She clicked “Send” without hesitation, then grabbed a pillow and screamed into it in silent laughter. “F-frozen wind swirl, Akeno?! You monster! ”
She peeked back up at the screen, just in time to see Arto freeze mid-sculpt. His head tilted to the side slightly… slowly… like a machine rebooting. His hands didn’t move. His lips were mouthing something that looked suspiciously like “...what?”
Akeno gasped with joy and curled up tighter, writhing in wicked delight on her bed. “Oh gods, I think I broke him. This is better than chocolate.”
Then, dramatically, she lay flat on her back and extended one hand toward the ceiling. “Forgive me, love of my life. But this... this is your punishment. And your challenge. Show me what you're made of~”
As the hours rolled by, Akeno went full demon in silk—her playful sadism on full display as she stacked tweak after tweak, design shift after elegant “suggestion.” Each message that pinged into Arto’s workshop came with an emoji, a wink, or an overly affectionate nickname that contrasted brutally with the chaos she was unleashing.
🌪️ “Hmm~ what if the petals were made of tiny mirrors? So they reflect the storm around it~ just a minor vibe tweak , sweetheart~ 💖”
💎 “Ooh, maybe swap the golden trim for a diamond filament etched with thunder runes? Just a small upgrade , nothing wild~ 😘”
❄️ “So I was thinking… what if we made the lightning into snowflakes instead? I read something about ‘em being frozen lightning in an old myth~ pretty symbolic, don’t you think~? 💋”
🦋 “Sooo... final final request. Can you make the entire piece float slightly above the hair with magical suspension and emit a soft chime when I walk? Not annoying chime, like, elegant heartbreak~ you know what I mean~ 💫✨”
Back in his workshop, Arto’s hands moved like clockwork, but the light in his eyes had long since shifted from serene dedication to… soul-warping resignation.
He stared at the newest request, deadpan. His desk was littered with drafts, sketches, conjured blueprints, half-formed fragments, and one perfect original design just sitting there, untouched for hours—like a quiet ghost haunting the edges of his mind.
“I swear to all the gods of creation,” he muttered, holding up the latest ridiculous prototype that somehow sparkled, chimed, hovered, and whispered storm poetry, “if she picks the original, I’m going to cry in twelve languages.”
As if on cue, the next message pinged in:
💌 “Hi~ after all that... I realized the first design you made for me was the most beautiful of all 💕 Let's go with that one 🥰 You just knew me so well from the start, didn’t you? You're such a genius~ I love youuuu~ 💋💖💫✨”
There was a long, deafening pause in the workshop. What happens next is not something Akeno expected to see, Arto doesn’t display any distress, he only smirks as he reaches down a hidden drawer on his crafting table and pulls out the ornament, the very first one he made before she chimed in and messed with the design with all her requests "Oh, my beloved Akeno, have you ever heard of Git?"
Akeno blinked as she heard his voice, his tone suddenly laced with an eerie, almost cheerful defiance—too cheerful. Dangerously so.
“…Git?” she repeated slowly, sitting up in bed “Is that a new pet name, or—?”
Arto turned toward the floating camera sphere in the workshop, locking eyes with it like a war veteran who just won one battle in an unwinnable war. The ornament glowed gently in his hand, pristine, perfect—the exact original version she had described in her dream. Not a crack out of place.
“Version control,” he said with a grin that had definitely seen some things. “Every time you change the design? I saved it. Every single version. Took inspiration from the one on the computer, got to thank the brilliant man who came up with the idea of version control”
His smile doesn’t fade as he twirls the ornament slightly in his hand “You might not know this but every sector in the simulation room has this system to roll back the state of the sector after failed experiments or unwanted changes, this means no cleaning duty, really convenient.”
His eyes dart around the sector “It can also assist parallel researches with different branches for different scientists to work on different aspects of their work without affecting others, you should ask Robin to guide you around that later, there are so much you haven’t known about the simulation room I built, my love"
Akeno stared at the screen as if it had just slapped her with a velvet glove. Her lips parted—more in astonishment than anything else. That bastard .
No— her bastard.
Her eyes narrowed, a blush rising to her cheeks not from embarrassment, but from the heated cocktail of pride, irritation, and a thrill that raced down her spine like divine thunder. He had the audacity to outmaneuver her. Cheerfully so. And not just outmaneuver—he did it with a degree of elegance and engineering she hadn’t even considered was at play.
The ornament hovered in his hand, not just flawless, but untouchably symbolic now. He didn’t just follow her instructions—he archived her madness. He survived it. And then calmly presented her with the first draft , as if saying, “You always wanted this. I knew.”
“Version control, huh?” she repeated under her breath, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, her thunderous pride brimming. “He really did go full developer on me...”
She squinted at him through the screen as he twirled the ornament with smug nonchalance. The little floating camera sphere followed him like a loyal minion, and for once, she could feel what it was like to be on the other end of the teasing.
“You smug, brilliant... idiot,” she whispered, but there was no malice in her tone. If anything, her voice was wrapped in admiration thick enough to melt stone.
She straightened up, pulled her tray of snacks back into her lap, and muttered to herself as she took a slow sip, “He really prepared for this. Anticipated it. Designed for it. And he knew I’d fall right back into his hands, even while trying to trip him.”
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Akeno watching chibi Arto working from afar)
The moment the clock chimed and the workshop’s door hissed open, Arto didn’t even need to look up—he could already feel her presence. The subtle shift in the atmosphere, the cool composure of elegance and steel.
Grayfia stepped inside with the grace of a queen and the tenderness of a devoted lover. In her hands, the tray gleamed with meticulously prepared lunch—his favorite, no doubt—but her eyes were focused on him. On only him.
She walked through the warm haze of forge-light and floating projections, through the scent of iron, heat, and magic, her heels clicking softly against the floor. When she reached him, she set the tray down with a soft clink, then turned to him.
“Your suffering smells like metal and stubbornness,” she murmured, lips already brushing against his temple as her arms wrapped around his shoulders from behind.
Despite the sweat dampening his shirt, Grayfia pressed herself against him fully, uncaring. She nuzzled into the crook of his neck, her cool skin a balm to his flushed, overheated body. “You didn’t take a break even once,” she whispered, kissing a trail up the line of his jaw. “Do you want to fall before you finish it? That would ruin the poetic arc of your punishment.”
Arto chuckled lowly, exhaling through his nose as his hand found her waist and pulled her onto his lap despite the grime. “If I fall, at least I’ll fall into you,” he murmured, brushing a kiss against her lips, slow and savoring.
Grayfia smiled into it, her silver hair spilling forward as her fingers combed through his. “Romantic. Tragic. Very you.” She glanced down at the glowing star still set nearby. “And she’s still watching, I’m sure. Shall I make the lunch... theatrical for our dear little thunder goddess?”
Arto raised a brow with a tired grin. “As if you need to ask.”
Grayfia’s eyes twinkled like ice catching fire as she straddled his lap properly and fed him the first bite—gently, lovingly, slowly—her lips brushing his ear with each whispered word.
“Say ‘ah’, my brave little chaos blacksmith. The pain isn’t over, but let me be your peace between the storms.”
As Arto continued to eat, each bite was carefully fed to him by Grayfia, her gentle hands guiding the spoon to his lips with quiet tenderness. The room was filled with soft murmurs—whispers of affection, little words of love exchanged between them like a secret dance that only they could share. The comforting rhythm of Grayfia feeding him, wiping a stray bit of food from the corner of his mouth, and brushing a strand of hair from his face added a layer of peace to the otherwise hectic day.
Arto’s exhaustion, which had weighed heavily on him since the morning, seemed to lift with each loving gesture. The food was delicious, of course, but the intimacy of the moment—Grayfia’s warmth, her gentle touch—made it something more. It was a break from the constant grind of work, a quiet moment of solace amidst the chaos.
Meanwhile, as Akeno watched from the magical screen, her stomach churned with a mix of emotions. She knew full well that Arto was hers, and that Grayfia’s gestures were all a part of the complex, deeply affectionate bond they shared. But seeing him so completely cared for by another woman—especially in such a tender, intimate way—caused a flicker of jealousy to stir deep inside her.
“I should have been the one feeding him”… Akeno thought, her lips curling into a pout as she watched Grayfia’s delicate fingers hold the spoon to Arto’s lips once more. “How dare she make him look so… at ease and loved while he has to suffer for me.”
Her stomach twisted again, but this time, she forced herself to smile, watching as Arto finished his meal and leaned into Grayfia’s embrace. The head maid was nothing if not patient, and she clearly adored Arto, her affection wrapped in every action.
When Grayfia finally set down his fork and pushed his plate aside, she gently guided him to rest, her hand smoothing down the back of his shirt as he collapsed into her chest with a soft sigh of relief.
"Just a little nap, my love," Grayfia whispered, her fingers running through his hair as he buried his face in the softness of her chest. “You’ve worked hard, you deserve this rest.”
Arto, despite his exhaustion, let out a contented hum and relaxed into her embrace. His eyes fluttered shut, the weight of the day making him sink into a peaceful slumber, his body still damp from the sweat of the morning’s work.
Akeno, watching through the screen, felt a twinge of frustration. She could feel the emotional distance growing between her and Arto, even though he would never know it. "This isn’t right”… she thought, her fingers tapping against the arm of her chair, her gaze never leaving the screen. “He’s mine”… The possessiveness in her voice wasn’t directed outwardly, but inwardly, as though reminding herself that her love for Arto would always be her guiding force.
She reached up and touched her lips, still remembering the kiss she placed on his cheek that morning, the kiss that had set everything in motion. She could almost hear his voice in her head, the quiet resignation that came with his acceptance of her little game.
Back in the workshop, Grayfia’s fingers continued to stroke Arto’s hair as he drifted deeper into sleep, his chest rising and falling in a rhythmic pattern. The nap was short but well-needed, a brief respite before he dove back into the relentless work of crafting the ornament for Akeno.
Grayfia smiled, watching him sleep. Her role in his life was ever-so-supportive, always helping him rest, rejuvenate, and navigate the complex relationships that he carried with so many. She understood the weight he bore, and she would always be there to lighten it.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by Arto snoring in Grayfia’s embrace)
When Arto wakes up after a light nap, he looks at Grayfia who is smiling warmly at him "You're awake, master, how was my chest pillow?" she asks sultrily. Arto chuckles "I want to sleep more, but it seems my work is calling"
"Indeed, but don't worry, you can enjoy my chest pillow when you come to the bathroom after your work day, and I will personally wipe off all the tiredness, suffering and sweat from your body in our daily private bathing session" Grayfia places a tender kiss on his forehead.
Her words were like a soft caress, making the tension in his shoulders melt away as she leaned in and placed a tender kiss on his forehead. The warmth of her lips lingered, a quiet promise of what awaited him once he finished the day’s work.
Arto closed his eyes for a brief moment, savoring the feeling of her affection. He could already imagine the soothing warmth of the bath, Grayfia’s hands gently running over his skin, washing away the remnants of the exhausting task he had ahead of him. It was a relief to know that, no matter how tiring the work might get, there was always this comforting moment to look forward to—Grayfia, patient and loving, always there to help him find solace.
“I can’t wait,” he murmured, his fingers brushing against her hand, his smile faint but sincere. “I think you just made me want to finish this even more.”
Grayfia’s expression softened as she gazed at him, her smile full of quiet understanding. “Then hurry along, my love. The faster you finish, the faster you’ll be in my arms again.”
With that, she gently pulled away, her fingers lingering on his hand for just a moment before she stood up. “I’ll be here when you’re ready, master. You know where to find me.”
As the soft click of the door signaled Grayfia's graceful exit, Arto let out a long, contented sigh and turned his focus back toward the forge.
The warmth of the earlier nap still clung to him, but duty called—and so did Akeno’s endless adjustments.
Or so he thought.
Ding!
The magical screen of Arto’s "Workshop Request Service" chimed again, blinking insistently. He wiped his hands with a cloth, sighing lightly as he walked over and tapped the screen.
Request Received: Complaint Ticket #001
Sender: Akeno Himejima 💢
Subject: Unauthorized Interference in Punishment Protocol
🌩️ "Dearest craftsman under punishment,
It has come to my attention that certain
head maid personnel
have been
interfering
with the intended suffering process. Unauthorized physical comfort (namely chest pillows, forehead kisses, and emotional spoiling) is strictly prohibited during the punishment period.
Effective immediately:
- No pampering from third parties (yes, even if they are incredibly beautiful, silver-haired, and have terrifyingly effective massages).
- Emotional hardship must be maintained until the completion of your task.
Failure to comply will result in extended silent treatment by an additional three days.
P.S. I am watching. 💕
Yours in loving cruelty,
Akeno Himejima"
Arto blinked, staring at the message for a moment, trying to process the absurdity of it all. Akeno’s voice was all too clear in the text, and he could practically hear her teasing tone even though she wasn’t physically there. He let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head.
“Of course she’d complain about that ,” he muttered to himself, a faint grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. He wasn’t entirely surprised that Akeno would get jealous of Grayfia’s tender moment with him. But the way she had spun it into an official complaint about his "punishment" was certainly… entertaining.
His eyes glanced back toward the workbench. It was still there—the ornament, the delicate design Akeno had ultimately decided upon, now complete and waiting for its final adjustments. Akeno’s silent treatment may have been playful, but this—this was the next level. She was using all her tricks to get under his skin, to push him to work harder, to make him feel the weight of her demands.
“Well, Akeno…” Arto muttered with a sigh, rubbing his temple as he read the last part of her message again. “I guess it’s time to get back to suffering, then. Alright, give me your afternoon request, dear, I’m listening”
The afternoon starts with Akeno keeps messing with Arto's work with her new tricks to ensure he is suffering by demanding for new features, functions, and mechanics to the ornaments while asking him to maintain the original shape of the hair piece, making it slowly drifting away from a normal jewelry
It started with simple things:
🌸 “Make it so the petals open and close depending on her mood~”
🌸 “Oh, and have a tiny lightning spark run along the edge every few minutes! 🌩️”
🌸 “Can it glow faintly under the moonlight? But
only
under natural moonlight, not magic light, hehe~”
🌸 “Oh! If someone besides me tries to touch it, I want a
tiny
shock, nothing lethal, just...humiliating enough 💋”
Each new demand came laced in teasing, playful wording, each designed to
trip him up
, to break his focus, to pile the weight of “impossible” atop the original task.
And yet — Arto wasn’t cracking.
If anything, he was thriving .
Rather than grimacing in frustration, Arto leaned over his workbench, sketching out quick blueprints, muttering to himself with an almost manic glint in his eyes.
"Hmm... mood petals? That's manageable with a soul-linked enchantment array…"
"Lightning edges, sure, we can loop micro-runic circuits into the core filigree…"
"Moonlight-activated glow... oh, that's fun. Might need a celestial attunement crystal, but that's
very
doable."
"And reactive defense mechanism? Pfft, child's play."
Every request Akeno sent was like fuel to his fire. Rather than seeing obstacles, Arto saw challenges , puzzles to solve, ways to make her eventual gift even more astonishing. His mind raced, pushing itself further, faster, more creatively than ever before.
At some point, he even opened the workshop chat channel and typed:
Arto: 🌟 Bring it on, Akeno. Make it harder. Give me everything you want in it. I’ll make you the most absurdly perfect, ridiculously overengineered, beautiful ornament this world has ever seen.
The notification that Akeno was typing came instantly.
Meanwhile, back in her room, Akeno stared wide-eyed at the message, mouth slightly open. “…He’s not struggling?” she muttered, stunned. She had expected flustered grumbling. Maybe even some angry muttering under his breath, or desperate attempts to compromise.
But instead, Arto was excited ? He was challenging her to challenge him more? A slow, wicked smile curved Akeno’s lips. "Ohhh... you magnificent fool, you just dared me."
Without hesitation, she started typing a storm of increasingly absurd features:
🌸 "Make it so when I’m sad, it sings a lullaby — but only audible to me!"
🌸 "It should detect my heartbeat and synchronize its light pulses with it 💖"
🌸 "Every year on our anniversary, it should bloom a tiny illusionary flower!"
🌸 "Make it so it senses when I’m angry and emits calming scents!"
Arto’s eyes gleamed as request after absurd request came flooding in. His fingers flew across the workbench — adjusting blueprints, recalibrating enchantment matrices, drafting subdimensions into filigree-thin structural frames — all while keeping the delicate, original shape of the hair ornament perfectly intact.
Each new message chimed like a bell of war in the background, but rather than faltering, Arto nodded to each one, a small grin tugging at his lips.
“Lullaby spell keyed only to her soul signature? Done."
"Heartbeat synchronization? Child’s play. Embed a resonance crystal at the core, tune it to her aura frequencies..."
"Calming scent release when angry? That'll need an emotional detection array woven through the ornamental framework — hell yes."
Each demand only pushed his mind faster — a chaotic storm of brilliant design ideas layered one after another in his thoughts. To any normal craftsman, it would have been an overwhelming death sentence of impossible complexity.
But not Arto.
This—this was his element .
His hands moved like a blur, alternating between delicate carving tools, enchanting brushes, and rune-etchers so small they looked like the tip of a hair. Every spell circuit was laid so thin, so precise, it would be invisible to the naked eye, folded within the ornament’s elegant curves and petals.
Optimize, compress, reinforce, beautify.
His inner voice roared like a forge flame.
He adjusted the flower's inner layers to host a miniature ether-core, capable of running the functions without draining Akeno’s own magic.
The lightning effect? He built a self-sustaining micro-storm inside a gem the size of a grain of rice, embedded at the base of a petal.
The scent system? A hidden, self-replenishing enchantment that released a soothing fragrance only detectable when her emotional wavelength spiked in anger.
And the blooming flower every anniversary? A compressed illusion rune that blossomed only under a precise celestial alignment he calculated by hand.
Every adjustment was seamless. Elegant. Invisible to anyone who didn't know where to look. This wasn't just crafting anymore. It was pure, maddening artistry.
And somehow... he was loving every second of it.
At one point, he leaned back in his chair, hair damp with sweat, chest heaving lightly — and he laughed. A deep, rich, genuine laugh that echoed off the walls, he has done it all, he has compressed all of her demands into this ornament.
“Akeno…you sweet, cruel, beautiful devil,” he whispered, brushing a hand through his messy hair. “You really thought you could bury me under this?” His eyes sparkled with a thrilling edge. “Wrong move, my love. You just gave me the excuse to create a miracle.”
Arto stands up from his chair and stretches himself “I deserve a warm bath,” he looks at the clock in the sector “Would you look at that? Right at the end of the work day,” he turns to the hidden camera with a tired smile “Do you want anything else, my love? Have I earned my rest for today?”
Akeno, still glued to her magical screen, froze when Arto’s tired, charming smile turned directly to the hidden camera —
to her
.
It felt like he was looking right into her soul.
On the screen, she saw him standing there: hair messy, shirt clinging to his sweat-slicked skin, hands slightly raw from hours of delicate, brutal work — but his eyes were shining with unwavering devotion, and that crooked, knowing smile that had first made her heart stumble.
He spoke again, his voice low, warm, and just a little teasing:
“Or should I stay here and keep suffering for you, Princess Akeno?”
“Your blacksmith is at your command, after all.”
Akeno clutched her pillow tighter, practically squealing into it to muffle the overwhelming storm of emotions wrecking her.
On one hand, her mischievous side screamed to push him a little more — she could invent some ridiculous, last-minute challenge.
On the other hand… her heart, tender and thudding painfully fast, whispered: “He’s done enough. He gave you everything without hesitation.”
Finally, she tapped into the command console, her fingers trembling slightly, and sent him a short, glowing message:
🌸 “You’ve worked so hard, my beloved. Go and enjoy your bath… and don’t forget Grayfia is waiting for you 💕
The message popped up on Arto’s worktable with a soft chime.
Arto read it, and a slow, peaceful smile spread across his lips. He gave a small, respectful bow toward the camera — a bow not of a servant, but of a knight to his queen.
"Understood, my love. Until tomorrow."
Then, without another word, Arto turned off the workshop systems, wiped the sweat from his brow, and walked calmly toward the private bath — where Grayfia was surely waiting with warm water, softer touches, and silent pride for what he had accomplished today.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto bathing with chibi Grayfia)
Arto gets out of his workshop and out of the simulation room, he doesn't bother walking as he teleports himself to the bathroom. When he is inside, steam has filled the room making a dream-like atmosphere.
"She has prepared it all for me, Grayfia, you're the best" Arto thinks as he gently takes off his clothes and steps into the water, the warmth of the bath welcomes him as he slowly sinks his body down and his muscles relax "A well earned reward after a long day, now I wonder where is my favorite maid?"
As Arto submerged himself into the steaming bath, a low hum of satisfaction rumbled from his throat. The warmth seeped into his tired muscles, untangling every knot of stress that had accumulated from hours of relentless work.
The surface of the water rippled slightly — but not from his movements.
He opened his eyes lazily, the haze of the steam making the world soft and dreamlike.
Through the mist, the sound of gentle footsteps approached.
And then, parting the steam like a vision from a dream, Grayfia appeared.
She wore a light, translucent bathrobe that clung to her curves, leaving little to the imagination, her silver hair tied loosely behind her, framing her flawless, calm face.
In her hands, she carried a folded towel and a small bowl filled with fragrant bath oils. Her eyes, half-lidded and warm, softened even further the moment they found Arto relaxing in the water.
Without a word, Grayfia knelt gracefully by the edge of the bath.
"You called for me, my beloved master?" she asked, voice a sultry purr that slipped like silk into his ears.
Her hand dipped into the water, her fingers tracing a slow, reverent path along his shoulder before gliding to his chest, feeling the steady, strong thrum of his heartbeat beneath damp skin.
"You've worked so hard today..." Grayfia whispered. "Allow me to ease all that burden from you."
Arto chuckled softly, eyes half-closed. "Grayfia... you spoil me too much."
"It is my greatest honor," she replied smoothly, "and my greatest pleasure."
She poured a few drops of the fragrant oil into the bath, the scent of calming herbs and sweet flowers immediately filling the air, mingling with the steam into something heady and decadent. Then, without hesitation, Grayfia slipped into the bath behind him, the water rippling as her body joined his.
Settling behind Arto, she gently pulled him back against her, his head resting against her soft chest, her arms wrapping around him with slow, adoring tenderness.
"There, master," she murmured into his ear, her lips brushing lightly against the skin. "Just relax. Let me hold you… just for a little while."
Her hands gently reach to the bottle of bathing gel on the edge of the tub, she takes a little on both of her hands and rubs them together before reaching Arto's chest and starts massaging his torso lovingly, her hands run over her scarred torso in his sighs of satisfaction, but there is something still bugging him as his brows twitch.
Grayfia notices "What is the matter, master? Did I not serve you correctly?" Arto chuckles "You're doing perfectly, Grayfia, I love it, but you know my hobby" Arto snaps his finger as her bathrobe disappears from her body "Now I can feel your smooth, soft skin on me fully. Continue your service, my love, but make sure your skin is close to mine"
Grayfia’s cheeks flushed a delicate pink at Arto’s boldness, but her silver eyes shimmered with pure devotion—and just the slightest glint of playful mischief.
She pressed herself closer, her now bare, flawless skin gliding against his under the surface of the water, wrapping him fully in her warmth.
"As you wish, master..." she whispered, her voice low and reverent, vibrating sweetly against his ear.
Her hands resumed their tender worship of his body, slowly, lovingly massaging the bathing gel across his broad, scarred chest. Her palms slid over the muscle and memory etched into his skin — each scar a silent story, each line a testament to the battles he had fought and endured for their sake.
She pressed soft kisses along the top of his head as she worked, each touch featherlight but brimming with affection, with gratitude.
“How was the work today, my master? How has the ornament for Akeno come along?” She asks as she reaches to the shampoo, getting them on her hand and starts washing his hair.
Arto let out a soft hum, his eyes fluttering shut as he surrendered fully to her tender care.
The feeling of Grayfia’s fingers working the shampoo gently into his scalp, combined with the warm water and the soft, affectionate kisses she planted on the top of his head, made it feel like the world outside didn’t exist.
“Mmm… exhausting," he admitted in a low, relaxed voice. "But satisfying in its own way. She kept throwing curveballs at me all afternoon—new features, new mechanics, all hidden in a hair ornament that’s supposed to look delicate and flawless.”
Grayfia giggled softly under her breath, massaging his scalp with slow, circular motions, careful not to rush.
"I watched for a bit... It seems she enjoyed tormenting you far too much, my poor master," she said teasingly, lowering her face close enough that her breath tickled his ear.
Arto chuckled in return, a tired but genuine sound.
“She was like a mischievous little goddess, sculpting my suffering with her demands,” he said with a small, affectionate shake of his head. "But you know what? I loved it. Every change she asked for... every ridiculous adjustment... it all reminded me how deeply she trusts me to turn her chaos into something beautiful."
Grayfia smiled warmly at his words, her heart swelling with pride.
She leaned down and whispered against his temple, “That’s what makes you so precious to all of us, my love. Your hands don’t just forge steel or gems… they forge dreams.”
Finishing with his hair, she used her magic to guide a flow of water and gently rinsed the suds from his scalp, her touch always delicate, always worshipful. Once the last of the shampoo was gone, she pressed another kiss to his freshly washed hair and wrapped her arms once again around his shoulders, pulling him close to her chest.
Arto sighs in comfort as he relaxes fully in her embrace, his head fully buried in her chest “I love my life, but don’t you need a little pampering as well, Grayfia?”
Grayfia let out a soft, musical laugh, her fingers combing gently through Arto’s damp hair as he nestled himself deeper into her chest.
"Your love pampers me more than you realize, master," she whispered, her voice sweet and low. "But if you insist..."
She tilted her head slightly, her silver hair cascading over her shoulder, and looked down at him with a soft, teasing glint in her eyes.
"There
is
something you could do to spoil me," she murmured, her hands running lightly down his arms under the water in slow, deliberate strokes. "If you’re not too tired, that is."
Arto chuckled, his breath warm against her skin.
"For you? I’d find the strength to move mountains, Grayfia," he said with a grin, pressing a small kiss against the swell of her chest.
Grayfia blushed faintly at the affectionate gesture, her heart fluttering despite all her years of composed service.
“Then,” she said, lifting his chin with her finger so their eyes could meet, "let me enjoy your touch, just a little. Let me feel that you are still mine, and I am yours... not as a maid tonight, but simply as a woman who adores you."
The look in her eyes was a soft plead—a rare moment when the ever-dutiful Grayfia lowered her walls completely, showing him the vulnerable love she always kept hidden beneath her immaculate composure.
Arto smiled tenderly at her, one hand rising to cup her cheek as he nodded.
"Come here," he said warmly.
He shifted in the water, gently guiding her to straddle his lap, the warm bath water sloshing lightly around them.
His hands roamed lovingly over her back, feeling the silk-smoothness of her skin, no urgency, no rush—only slow, adoring worship with every caress, every kiss he placed along the curve of her neck, her shoulder, her collarbone.
"You deserve all the pampering in the world," he murmured between kisses. "This body, this body of a woman who carries the whole mansion on her shoulders, the woman who did it all to ensure the comfort of this house's residents. Yet, it's so easy to forget her effort in the background"
Arto pressed his lips against Grayfia’s chest "You're precious, Grayfia, more precious than you think you are, I could never appreciate you enough for what you did for me and the girls. But Grayfia, you've always placed yourself in the background, thinking you are not important,"
His hug around her tightens "But without you, this place will fall into chaos, life would be hard, so never look down on yourself, okay? I will use this daily bathtime with you to remind you of that, of how important you are, like the girls said, you are not a maid, you’re a queen of this mansion" His lips brushed tenderly against her neck.
Grayfia trembled softly in his arms, overwhelmed by the warmth of his words — a warmth that seeped far deeper than the bath's water, sinking into the very core of her heart.
For so long, she had accepted her role as the perfect servant, the silent support, the invisible foundation that made others shine. It was never duty alone that drove her — it was love.
But hearing Arto, the man she had sworn her body and heart to, affirm her value so directly, so sincerely, broke through walls even she didn’t realize she still had.
Her arms wrapped tightly around his shoulders, pulling him even closer, her bare skin pressing flush against him as if to merge her body into his, to never let go.
Her voice came out barely above a whisper, trembling but full of raw feeling:
"Master... no, Arto..." She corrected herself tenderly, resting her forehead against his. "You always see me... the real me... even when I hide behind duties and routines. To be seen like this, to be loved like this... it’s more than I ever dreamed of."
A single tear welled up in the corner of her eye, but she quickly blinked it away, not wanting to cloud this sacred moment.
Arto lifted a hand and gently wiped the tear with his thumb, smiling at her with all the gentleness he could muster.
"I love the real you, Grayfia. All of you. The maid, the woman, the queen. Never forget that."
Grayfia responded not with words but with a deep, soul-stealing kiss — slow, passionate, and filled with years of silent devotion finally given voice.
The world outside that bath disappeared; there were no duties, no obligations, no mansion, no other girls clamoring for attention — just the two of them, suspended in a perfect moment of mutual adoration.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Albedo sulking outside the bathroom because she couldn’t bath with Arto)
After the comforting bath, Arto makes his way into the simulation room with Grayfia sticking to him, he sees at the door Albedo is standing there with a sulking face “Master, why didn’t you let me bathe with you? I love you more than anyone, you know”
“It’s my privilege as the head maid, Albedo” Grayfia smiles warmly “If you can handle my daily routine, this bathing session will be yours, until then, you have to accept that our it’s hard to make our Master change his mind about bringing another woman into the bath he saves for his head maid”
Albedo pouted even harder, her golden eyes brimming with frustration and longing. She crossed her arms under her generous chest, making her sulky stance even more dramatic.
“But it’s not fair! I’m willing to do anything! Anything for Master!” she cried out, stamping her foot lightly like an adorable—if dangerous—child denied her favorite treat.
Arto chuckled, reaching out to lightly pat Albedo’s head, smoothing down her silky black hair.
"Albedo," he said in a calm, almost fatherly tone “you’ve always been with me like…all the time as my secretary right? Coming with me to meetings, assisting me in my office while sitting on my laps, and making love regularly in our own chamber, while Grayfia doesn’t get to see me that much in a day while having to carry the whole mansion in her shoulders, so she having a little more love in the bath with me is fair, right?”
Albedo’s cheeks puffed up even more at his words, her golden eyes trembling between rebellion and reluctant acceptance. She opened her mouth, clearly ready to unleash another wave of passionate arguments — but then she froze when Arto gently flicked her forehead with a playful, affectionate snap.
"Ack—!" she yelped, staggering back half a step, rubbing her forehead with a glare that quickly melted into a helpless, lovesick stare.
"I..." Albedo fidgeted, her wings twitching slightly behind her back. "I guess… if it’s for fairness... and because it’s Grayfia…" She huffed dramatically and turned her face away, but not before Arto and Grayfia could see the faint, grudging smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
Grayfia chuckled behind her hand, her expression proud yet understanding. She leaned closer to Arto’s side, whispering into his ear, “You really are good with the difficult ones, my love. Maybe we should add 'King of handling yandere affection' to your titles.”
Arto laughed under his breath. “If that’s a royal decree, I’ll gladly accept it.”
He then stepped forward, ruffling Albedo’s hair once more, gentler this time. "Good girl. I’ll make it up to you tomorrow night, alright? We’ll have some private time when I’m done with the anniversary preparations. Just you and me."
Albedo’s wings perked up immediately, her entire body practically vibrating with joy. She clasped her hands to her chest and nodded frantically, her earlier sulking completely forgotten.
“Yes, Master! I’ll wait for you! I’ll be the best secretary ever tomorrow!" she proclaimed, before giving Grayfia a respectful, albeit slightly pouty, bow. "And I will beat you at your duties someday, Grayfia!"
Grayfia only smiled serenely. “I’ll be looking forward to it, Albedo.”
Arto turned his attention back to Grayfia “Maybe our time ends here, Grayfia, I really want to stay with you more, my Grayfia”, she gently squeezes his hand a little harder “I would want that too, but today is her day, right? So go ahead and enjoy your anniversary night with Rias, I’ll inform others about this matter”
Arto smiled warmly at her, a deep, genuine gratitude filling his heart. He brought Grayfia’s hand up and pressed a tender kiss to her knuckles, lingering for a second longer than usual.
"You truly are irreplaceable," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, meant only for her ears.
Grayfia’s cheeks tinted the faintest shade of pink — a rare sight from the ever-composed head maid — but she recovered quickly, bowing her head with a grace only she could possess.
"It is my honor to support you, my master," she said, her voice soft and affectionate. "Go. She’s waiting for you."
Arto reluctantly let her hand slip from his fingers and turned toward the inner hallways, the familiar corridors of the mansion leading him to Rias’s personal sector in the simulation room, Sector 10: Rias’ hideout for he knows she is waiting for him here.
The door of the sector opens to Arto as he steps into Sector 10, a room where Rias stores all her anime, mange, light novel, figures collections, he sees Rias is already waiting comfortably in a warm blanket on the bed in the room before a lighted up giant screen where they will watch anime, there is also many trays of snack prepared by Rias for them to enjoy their private time.
"Are you sure you want to spend our 1 year anniversary this way, anime and cuddling like our normal private time?" Arto asks as he gets into the blanket and pulls Rias into a tender hug from behind.
Rias giggled softly, melting into his embrace without hesitation, her back pressing against his chest as she intertwined her fingers with his under the blanket. The soft light from the giant screen bathed the room in a cozy, dreamlike glow.
“This is how I want to spend it," she murmured, her voice rich with affection and a hint of mischief. "Because, my love, what could be better than doing what we always do, together? No pressure, no pretending — just us, being us."
She tilted her head back slightly to look up at him, her sapphire eyes shimmering warmly.
"Our first date, remember? We didn’t go to any fancy restaurant or do anything crazy. We watched anime together, ate snacks, and fell asleep on the couch with you drooling on my shoulder," she teased, a playful sparkle dancing in her gaze.
Arto chuckled, a deep rumble from his chest as he nuzzled into her crimson hair, breathing in her familiar, comforting scent.
"I didn’t drool that much," he mumbled, squeezing her waist gently.
"You so did," Rias said with a soft laugh, squeezing his hand back. "But it was perfect. You were perfect. And this—" she waved her hand lazily at the scene around them, at the mountains of snacks, the warm blanket, the anime playing softly in the background—"this is perfect too. It's our little world, Arto. It's where our love flourished."
Arto’s heart squeezed at her words. He tightened his arms around her, resting his forehead against the side of her head.
"I’m glad," he whispered. "Because it's the same for me, Rias. You didn’t need to do anything grand to steal my heart. You just needed to be yourself...and that was more than enough."
Rias smiled, a radiant, content smile, and settled deeper into him.
"Then let’s spend tonight celebrating us, " she said, reaching for a tray of their favorite snacks. "No fancy ceremonies, no drama. Just anime, cuddles...and maybe some kisses if you behave yourself."
Arto chuckled again, the sound filled with nothing but joy, and pressed a soft kiss to her temple.
"I’ll do my best, my beautiful president. Hey, you know what’s better?" Arto snaps his fingers and their clothes disappears under the blanket “Naked cuddle is always better, clothes make us not close enough”
Rias squealed softly in surprise, feeling the sudden coolness of the air against her bare skin — and then the overwhelming, heart-melting warmth of Arto’s body against hers, nothing separating them now under the thick, cozy blanket.
“You cheat!” she said in a mock-scolding tone, her cheeks flushing the most adorable shade of pink. She squirmed just slightly, pressing herself even closer to him, savoring the feel of his bare skin against hers. "You always do this when I’m vulnerable and relaxed…"
Arto chuckled lowly, the vibration rumbling pleasantly through both their bodies. He kissed the back of her neck, slow and tender, his hands rubbing small, lazy circles along her waist and stomach.
"It’s not cheating," he whispered against her skin, his breath sending shivers down her spine. "It’s efficiency. We’re celebrating closeness, right? What’s closer than skin to skin?"
Rias gave a dramatic little huff, but she couldn't hide the way she leaned back into him even more, basking in the full, unfiltered affection he poured into every touch.
“Fine…” she murmured with a little pout that quickly softened into a dreamy smile. “But if you’re going to be naughty… you have to promise me you’ll still finish the anime marathon first.”
Arto laughed, his arms wrapping around her even tighter, as if anchoring her completely against him.
"I swear on all the anime merch you’ve hoarded here," he teased warmly. "Tonight’s about you. About us. I’ll be a good boy... until you decide otherwise."
Rias grinned mischievously, reaching up to boop his nose with her fingertip under the blanket.
"Good. Because after the anime, I might reward you in a way only your president can~," she whispered teasingly, her voice dropping into that sultry, playful tone that always drove him wild.
And so, nestled together, skin against skin, surrounded by the soft glow of the screen and the sweet scent of snacks and warmth, they began their night — laughing, whispering, sharing kisses and teasing caresses — their love deepening with every passing moment.
Suddenly, Rias feels a cool feeling on her ring finger, Arto is slipping something into her finger like a ring. When the thing is fully on her finger, a soft red glow lights up the blanket, she turns to Arto who is watching the anime normally “What did you slip into my finger, Arto?” she asks sultrily.
“See for yourself, Rias, it’s a gift from me, for our anniversary, and a promise for an eventual future of us” Rias takes her hand out of the blanket with anticipation, but even in her wildest dream, she could never expect what she would see, a ring with a glowing crystal at the center, no world she could think of can describe the beauty of the gem before her eyes, it exudes an gentle crimson light as warm as the sunlight, as ethereal as an artifact that comes out from a fantasy and an air that feels like....her.
Rias's breath caught in her throat, her wide eyes locked on the ring that now adorned her finger, the glowing crimson crystal that seemed to pulse in harmony with her heartbeat. It was... mesmerizing.
Her fingers traced the delicate band, her touch almost reverent as the warmth of the gem spread through her hand. The light it emitted was unlike anything she had ever seen — not just beautiful, but deeply personal . It radiated an aura of intimacy, of a shared journey yet to unfold.
"You... Arto... what is this?" Her voice was barely a whisper, awe and wonder taking over her usual confident tone. She had never seen a gem so pure, so full of life. It felt like it was made just for her.
Arto leaned in slightly, his gaze soft but intense as he watched her reaction. He reached up and gently cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing across her skin as he spoke, his voice warm with sincerity.
“That, Rias... is a symbol of my promise to you. Not just for our anniversary, but for our future together. The gem... it’s called Rias, your name, because I put you into it, this crystal's core is your beauty, inside and outside, along with my love for you, compressed, crystalized into the core of this gem, this Silmaril crystal named after you”
Rias’s heart skipped a beat as Arto's words sank in. Her fingers instinctively clenched around the delicate band, the warmth of the gem radiating through her hand like it was alive — just like the emotions swirling in her chest. She could hardly believe what she was hearing.
“You named it... after me?” Rias’s voice cracked slightly, a mix of surprise and overwhelming emotion. She looked down at the glowing crimson stone again, her breath steadying as the reality of Arto’s gesture sunk deeper into her heart.
Arto smiled softly, his eyes locked with hers. There was a depth in his gaze, something unspoken, that told her how much she truly meant to him. “Yes, Rias. It’s not just a symbol of my love for you, it’s a symbol of everything you are. Your strength, your beauty, your kindness, and the fire in your heart. I put all of that into this gem. It’s... a piece of you, and a piece of me, together. And I wanted to make sure you knew it, every time you look at it.”
Rias’s hand trembled slightly as she lifted it to her chest, clutching the ring close to her heart, as if trying to hold the weight of his words, of the meaning behind the gem, in a place that was only for her. “I... don’t know what to say, Arto.” Her voice was soft, vulnerable, yet filled with awe. “This is... beyond anything I could have imagined. You’ve always been so thoughtful, but this... it’s more than just a gift. This is... a piece of my heart, isn’t it?”
Arto’s expression softened even further, a fondness in his eyes as he leaned in, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. “It is. It always has been. I’ve put all of myself into everything I’ve done for you. For us. But this... this is something I wanted to give you, something that only you can hold. Something that symbolizes our future as husband and wife.”
"So you've decided...." Rias whispers softly, Arto nods "Indeed, you will be my first wife when the time is right, my first love, this ring will mark it, a promised marriage"
Rias’s breath hitched again, this time from the sheer magnitude of his words. First wife... Her crimson eyes shimmered, not from her usual fiery pride, but from a tidal wave of emotion crashing through her carefully held composure.
Her lips parted in a quiet gasp, and for a long moment she didn’t speak—she simply stared at him, stunned, breathless, overwhelmed.
“You… you’re really choosing me to be your first?” she finally managed to say, her voice laced with disbelief, hope, and joy all braided together. “Among everyone? You’re really... sure?”
Arto gave her no hesitation. His hand gently wrapped around hers, the one wearing the ring, and he brought it to his lips, pressing a kiss against the glowing gem. “I’ve been sure for a long time, Rias. You were the one who took me in, and gave me everything I need to show my worth back when I had nothing but baseless, even crazy ideas, and look at what I am having now, I owe everything I have to you, Rias, no Rias means no Arto”
Rias’s heart swelled at his words, a lump forming in her throat as his sincerity washed over her like a warm tide. The glow from the crystal on her finger shimmered, reflecting the soft light of the room and the emotional storm in her eyes.
She looked at him, really looked at him—not just as the man she loved, but as the man she had believed in before the world did, the man she had supported when others scoffed at his wild dreams. And now here he was, brilliant, powerful, and hers... still hers.
“You’re wrong about one thing,” she whispered, her fingers tightening around his. “You didn’t owe me anything. You’ve repaid me in full long ago, your inventions helped my clan grow like never before, helped my family bind closer together, your knowledge and teachings made me better both as a mage, a fighter, a leader and most importantly, a person, and your love make me the happiest woman in this world, so while you say ‘No Rias means no Arto’, I must say ‘No Arto means no Rias’”
Arto’s eyes softened, misting with the depth of emotion her words stirred within him. He had been praised many times—for his intellect, his magic, his creations—but nothing ever struck him as profoundly as what Rias just said. This wasn’t admiration. It was an acknowledgment. Devotion. A truth wrapped in love.
His hand came up to cradle her cheek, thumb brushing away a tear that had escaped without her knowing. “Then we’re even,” he said quietly, his voice rich with emotion. “Two souls who built each other. Two hearts that refuse to beat without the other.”
Rias leaned into his touch, her forehead gently pressing to his. “Even?” she murmured with a teasing smile. “Then you won’t mind if I spend the rest of my life making us uneven again, just to see how far I can tip the scale in your favor.”
Arto laughed softly, the sound low and warm between them. “Be careful, Rias. If you do that, I’ll have no choice but to outdo you again. And you know how competitive I can be.”
Their lips met in a kiss that wasn’t rushed or burning with urgency, but deep and endless—a kiss that spoke of shared history, of promises made and a lifetime ahead.
Outside the blanket, the soft hum of the anime still played on the giant screen. But here, beneath its glow, in the sacred cocoon of warmth and skin and love, two hearts beat in perfect harmony.
As Arto’s hand wrapping in Rias’ hand, she turns to him “Arto, you gave me the best engagement ring I could ever ask for, I want to make something for you as well, to make things fair between us, an engagement ring for you would do, can you teach me how to make a gem like this? I want to do the same to you, a ring with you and my love for you as the center”
Arto blinked, the request catching him in a moment of tender surprise. His lips curled into a gentle smile—not one of pride or amusement, but of deeply stirred affection. “You want to... craft a gem for me? Like the one I made for you?”
Rias nodded, her expression serious, eyes glistening with emotion but resolute in her intent. “I don’t want our love to be one-sided. You poured your whole being into this ring... and I want to do the same. I want to give you something that carries me inside it—my devotion, my warmth, my strength. So when you wear it, you’re reminded that I am always with you, just as you are with me.”
For a moment, Arto didn’t speak. Instead, he just looked at her—the woman he had loved, fought beside, grown with—and felt something rare. A sense of being fully understood.
Then he reached out and cupped both her hands in his, squeezing them with a small nod.
“I’ll teach you,” he said softly. “But not like a teacher to a student—this will be a work between two equals, two hearts. We can start tomorrow when I craft the crystal for Akeno’s hair ornament, but for now, what anime are we watching, princess?”
Rias smiled through her teary eyes, her heart filled to the brim with love and anticipation. The thought of creating something for Arto, something born of her soul and sealed into a gem he’d wear, made her heart race in a way no battle or spell ever had. Tomorrow, she thought, we begin something new together—not just a craft, but a deeper bond.
But for tonight…
She snuggled closer into the crook of his arm, the blankets shifting as they settled once again into their warm cocoon. Her hand remained in his, fingers gently tracing the contours of his palm as a new kind of intimacy bloomed between them—one of shared dreams and future creation.
With a soft hum, she turned her head toward the glowing screen. “I figured... for tonight, we go back to where we started. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann —episode one.”
Arto blinked, then laughed—a warm, rich sound that rumbled through her chest. “You picked that? The first anime we ever watched together?” he asked, visibly touched.
She nodded. “Because it reminded me of us. Of how we started with nothing but belief in each other… and now, we’ve built a world.”
He tightened his arm around her waist. “Alright then. Let’s relive it. One more time… from the top.”
The screen lit up as the opening blared to life, and in that quiet, glowing space—filled with familiar voices and old memories—they began to write a new one.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Rias praising the ring Arto made for her)
“Can’t believe we went through all that straight from the first episode to the end of 2 movies, 15 hours” Arto blinks as the credits of the 2nd movie is running
Rias let out a sleepy laugh, her voice muffled as she nuzzled deeper into Arto’s chest beneath the blanket. Her legs were tangled with his, their bodies warm and flush after hours of motionless cuddling and emotional anime highs. "Fifteen hours... and not a single moment I’d take back," she murmured.
Arto gently stroked her hair, eyes still watching the glowing screen, the final swelling notes of Row Row Fight the Power fading into silence. “We laughed, we cried, we yelled at the screen… you almost threw popcorn when Kamina—”
“Don’t bring that up again,” Rias groaned dramatically, hiding her face. “I wasn’t ready for that scene again . Kamina always gets me.”
Arto chuckled, kissing the top of her head. “You were beautiful the whole time, even when crying your eyes out.”
She peeked up at him, red hair falling over her eyes, still shimmering with leftover tears. “You didn’t cry at all, did you?”
“I cried on the inside,” he said, utterly deadpan.
“You liar.”
“Maybe. But I did feel something powerful,” he added, his tone softening. “Watching it with you again… it hit different. Like seeing our journey reflected back through them. It’s wild to think how far we’ve come. From that night we first watched episode one… to this.”
Rias’s smile turned wistful. “We really are our own kind of team Dai-Gurren, huh?”
He nodded, squeezing her hand under the blanket. “And you, my crimson princess, are the spiral energy that keeps me going.”
She laughed at that, eyes gleaming with affection. “If we keep talking like this, I’m going to end up marrying you tonight .”
“Well,” Arto said with a mock shrug and a teasing smirk, “we are halfway there.”
Arto looks at the clock "Wait, it's almost 10 a.m already!?" He blinks sleepily "I came in here at 6 p.m yesterday, we started watching at 7 when the ring, marriage promise and kiss were over and we haven't stopped til....”
He clutches his head in panic "I'm late, I'm so late now, I should be in the workshop making the gem for Akeno by now...."
"Relax, love" Rias stretches her body as she turns back to him, pushes him down the bed and takes her position on top of him "I turned on time-dilation before you came, it's only been 5 hours outside, you still have plenty of time to sleep while hugging me"
Arto froze for a second, eyes wide in disbelief—then slowly blinked as the weight of Rias atop him, and the warmth of her mischievous grin, sank in. “You… turned on time-dilation?” he repeated, his voice part exhausted, part awestruck. "I'm so glad, this means it's only 0h00 outside, I still have 8 hours until my workday, or 24 hours in here."
Arto sighs in relief as he flips Rias over, she is now laying on her back while Arto is on top of her. "Still, you should have told me sooner." Rias giggles as she shows him the ring "It was your fault for gifting me this ring, making me forget about everything else, even me turning on time-dilation"
"But that still needs a punishment for making me suffer from intense emotional outburst, your chest will be my pillow to sleep tonight"
Rias smirked, the crimson glow from her ring catching the light as she held it up teasingly. “A punishment, is it? That doesn’t sound like one at all, Mr. Fiancé.”
Arto leaned in until their noses touched, his voice low and warm. “That’s the point. You get to suffer the consequences of loving me too much.”
“Then I’ll gladly take the punishment,” Rias whispered, eyes half-lidded with affection. Arto buries his face in Rias' chest while his arms wrap around her back possessively.
After a few minutes, Rias hears a light snoring sound, her beloved is already asleep. Rias stared down at Arto, her arms instinctively wrapping around his shoulders, cradling him closer. The faint rhythm of his breath and the sound of his peaceful snoring pressed gently against her chest like the sweetest lullaby. Her fingers threaded through his hair slowly, lovingly.
A quiet smile touched her lips as she whispered to the ceiling, “I guess this is what heaven feels like.”
The crimson glow of her ring shimmered softly in the dim light of the simulation room, casting a warm hue over their tangled forms beneath the blanket. Time, obligations, the world itself — all of it faded behind the veil of dilation. In this space, in this moment, they had eternity carved out just for the two of them.
She kissed the top of his head and held him tighter. “Sleep well, my beloved. Tomorrow, Akeno will come get you again. But tonight… tonight, you’re mine.”
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto and chibi Rias dreaming)
When he wakes up, he sees Rias was looking at him smiling "How long have you been looking at this helpless future husband of yours?"
Rias chuckled softly, her fingers still gently combing through his hair as his head lay on her chest.
“Long enough to memorize every little expression you make when you sleep,” she said playfully, her crimson eyes gleaming with affection. “You drooled a little, by the way. It was adorable.”
Arto groaned lightly, but a lazy grin tugged at his lips as he looked up at her. “You know, most wives would pretend they didn’t notice.”
“Well, I’m not most wives,” Rias replied smugly, brushing his bangs from his forehead. “I’m the one you gave that beautiful ring to, remember? That comes with the privilege of teasing you... and watching you sleep like a kitten.”
He closed his eyes again and nuzzled into her. “At this point, I might never get out of bed. My future wife is too soft, too warm, and way too smug.”
“Then don’t,” Rias whispered, tightening her embrace. “Let the world wait a bit longer. Just stay with me... for a little while more because look at the time,” she points at the clock “It’s only 3 a.m outside, you still have a lot of time in my chest, so sleep a little more, I haven’t had enough dream with you”
Arto let out a soft, almost content sigh as he nestled deeper into her embrace, his cheek pressed snugly against the warmth of her chest. Her heartbeat was steady, soothing — a rhythm he had grown to love more than anything.
“Three a.m. outside, huh?” he mumbled sleepily, his voice muffled against her skin. “Guess the world really can wait...”
Rias smiled, running her fingers gently through his hair, savoring every second of their stolen time together. “That’s right. This is our world now — no interruptions, no duties, no one else. Just you and me, my beloved.”
His breathing slowed again as sleep tugged at him, but not before he whispered, “If this is a dream, I hope I never wake up.”
Rias’s eyes softened even more as she watched him drift off again. “Then dream with me, Arto... until the stars grow quiet.”
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Rias looking at a sleeping chibi Arto while thinking an idea for her ring for him)
Arto wakes up again after more sleep with Rias, he looks at his red-haired princess to see she is already awake and she is giggling while brushing his hair gently “How long have you been looking at me, love?” he asks while snuggling into her chest again.
“Long enough to spark me ideas of what to add in the core of the Silmaril crystal, your strength, your weakness, your confidence, your insecurity, your bravery and fear, recklessness and caution, and most importantly, my love for you” Rias’ sultry words come with a kiss on his forehead
Arto’s eyes soften as he looks up at her “It seems you’ve had enough ideas for the gem, let us get up and head to the first phase of the gem making, the base for the gem with a crystalline substance similar to Silima from Silmarillion, while in the story they didn’t dictate clearly how the substance was made, but an experiment of mine gave me a something similar to Silima in the book”
“Pray tell, what did you find?” Rias looks at him curiously “I used crystalized sunlight to make the substance, concentrated sunlight was fused with my mana to created the base for the Silmaril crystal you are wearing on your finger right now”
Rias's eyes widened, the glow from the ring on her finger reflecting in her gaze like twin stars. “Crystalized sunlight… Arto, that’s poetic and groundbreaking,” she said softly, her voice a mix of reverence and fascination. “You fused the essence of a star with your own mana… no wonder it radiates like a living heart. What about the core? How did you forge abstract things like my beauty and your love for me?”
“There is a sector I made for that, Sector 57: Moonwell, I used the light of the moon to reflect your beauty and my love for you into a well, then I put the hot base into the well, the reflections will be inlaid into the substance as the crystal cool down, giving me the end product, the Silmaril on your ring finger”
Rias stared at Arto in awe, completely mesmerized—not just by the brilliance of his mind, but by the raw, intimate love woven into every part of his creation. She turned her hand, watching the Silmaril crystal on her finger catch the light, its gentle crimson pulse now even more meaningful with his explanation.
“You made a jewel,” she whispered, almost reverently, “by literally fusing the sun, the moon, and your heart together…”
She reached out, her fingers brushing against his cheek. “Do you even realize what kind of man you are, Arto? This isn’t just craftsmanship, this is soulwork. No wonder it feels alive.”
Arto simply smiled, humbly brushing a lock of hair from her face. “Then let’s go create your soulwork for me. One crystal, made from your world, your essence, your heart. We’ll start with crystallizing the sunlight again, but this time—your mana, not mine.”
She nodded firmly, rising from the bed and pulling him with her, the air now crackling with purpose and emotion. “Then let’s go to Sector 75: Sun,” she said. “We’ve got a star to catch.”
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a sun surrounded by Dyson Swarm glowing)
“My love, welcome to Sector 75: Sun, this is where you get to see the super construct humanity has always dreamed of” Rias’ eyes widen seeing what appears before her eyes, a star surrounded by Dyson Swarm.
Rias stepped forward slowly, her breath catching as she gazed at the colossal marvel of engineering before her. A star—the Sun itself—bathed the entire sector in a warm, golden light, and surrounding it like a cosmic dance of precision and power was a vast Dyson Swarm: thousands upon thousands of solar-harvesting satellites, each orbiting with calculated perfection, collecting and channeling the raw energy of the sun.
The hum of controlled solar fury echoed subtly beneath their feet as they stood on the reinforced observation deck.
“My love,” Arto said softly, stepping beside her, “this construct is the key to the crystallization. We’re going to use concentrated sunlight, gathered and focused from multiple swarm nodes, and infuse it with your mana. The crystal will form slowly under the light of the Sun, it’s a delicate and demanding process so you must be patient and careful, the crystal will be extremely hot”
Rias stood transfixed, her usual poise overtaken by raw wonder as golden rays spilled across her features, bathing her in divine light. Her hand instinctively reached for the ring on her finger, as if to ground herself in the memory of what Arto had already created—a masterpiece now eclipsed by the sheer scale of what lay before her.
She turned to him, eyes shimmering with awe and love. “You built this… this entire construct… for the sake of creation, of love? This is beyond anything I’ve imagined, Arto. You didn’t just replicate the poetry of the Silmarils—you rewrote it in your own legend.”
Arto's gaze didn’t drift from the star as he stood next to Rias, the golden light reflecting in his eyes like molten fire. “I didn’t build it just for love,” he said quietly. “It was an experiment where I channeled my mana into the concentrated sunlight to see the magical potential of a star, the result was the substance that made the gem on your ring, it was small back then, but the nature of it reminded me of Silima from Silmarillion, so when I made the crystal for your ring, I usually referred to it Silmaril, in truth, there hasn’t been a name for it yet"
Arto pulls Rias to a platform "We can mind the name later, now let's craft this crystal, here is how things go, pour your mana into this concentrated sunlight ray and shape it slowly and steadily, remember to maintain your protection field, or else the run ray might burn your hand away before you know it"
Rias stepped up onto the platform, her breath steady but her heart pounding as she looked up at the focused stream of solar brilliance before her. It wasn’t just light—it was the pure, living breath of a star, now funneled through the precision of Arto’s genius. And she was about to take that raw, ancient fire… and make it hers.
“I’m ready,” she said, her voice quiet but resolute.
A white beam—concentrated, focused through a dozen orbiting Dyson nodes—descended into the chamber like a divine lance. The platform hummed beneath their feet as Arto adjusted the regulators to align the solar stream’s intensity. Rias extended both hands forward, conjuring her mana in soft, glowing tendrils that coiled around her wrists and fingers like protective gloves.
As soon as her mana touched the light, the ray shimmered—no longer just sunlight, but now touched by a living soul. The beam bent slightly under her will, its pure white hue taking shape under her command bit by bit.
Arto watched carefully, ready to assist but unwilling to interfere unless necessary. This moment had to be hers.
“You’re doing it,” he said softly. “The light is responding to you. Good… now hold steady. Don’t push your mana into it like energy. Let it blend . This is not a war—it’s a dance. twist and turn to make the shape you desire, and remember, patience and dedication is the key, don’t rush it”
Rias’ eyes narrowed slightly in focus, sweat beginning to bead along her brow despite the protection field. Slowly, the core began to form within the light: a shimmering sphere of partially-crystallized energy, still translucent and pulsing with chaotic heat.
She steadied her breath, focusing on simplicity and elegance. Her fingers glided gently in the air, guiding her mana like a sculptor’s chisel. The glowing mass of crystallizing light responded to her will, slowly folding inwards, its radiant shape sharpening with every pulse of intent. Bit by bit, edges emerged—clear, angular, perfect. A diamond shape, not unlike a teardrop turned upright, began to take form.
“Good, you’re getting used to the work, now I can mind my own crystal” Arto nods to Rias as he moves to the platform next to her as he starts forming his own crystal, his movements are more confident and adventurous than those of Rias considering his many attempts in creating the first crystal.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by 2 Silima crystals forming under sunlight)
As the hours passed, the golden light of Sector 75 bathed the growing crystals with unwavering intensity, the radiant beams from the Dyson Swarm carefully monitored and adjusted by Arto’s control systems. The temperature, the mana flow, and the structural integrity of each forming crystal were all kept in perfect harmony.
Rias stood with her arms extended, palms up, as her diamond-shaped crystal slowly spun between them. Its form had refined further with each passing moment — the facets sharpened, the inner glow steadier. The pure white light pulsed in time with her own aura, as though the crystal was learning to breathe with her. Her magic was steady, patient, and full of feeling — every bit of her strength, elegance, and love was being etched into the final structure.
Meanwhile, Arto worked with a blend of technical precision and artistic passion. The sakura blossom crystal he was crafting for Akeno was almost complete — its five delicate petals perfectly proportioned, each laced with intricate threads of mana-infused sunlight, warm and inviting, capturing the gentle strength and nurturing spirit that Akeno embodied. It was more than just beautiful — it was expressive.
The room was silent but for the low, harmonic hum produced by the mana-sunlight fusion process, like a soft chorus that acknowledged the birth of something sacred.
Arto finally spoke, not looking away from his crystal. “It’s almost ready. A few more hours of shaping, and we can begin the descent to Sector 57 — the Moonwell. That’s where we give them their soul.”
They both knew the truth: what they had forged so far was just form — it was the next step, the embedding of memories, emotion, and love, that would transform these crystals into living symbols of connection.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by 2 Silima bases shining brightly)
The air shimmered with residual heat as Arto stepped back from his work, the sakura-shaped crystal hovering within the containment field before him. Its surface pulsed with a soft, radiant light — delicate yet powerful — and its intricate mana threads glowed like veins of pure intent. Though it radiated intense heat, the field around it kept it suspended and stable, like a newly born star waiting for its soul.
Arto wiped the sweat from his brow, his expression calm but proud. “It’s done,” he said quietly, his voice echoing faintly in the massive chamber of Sector 75. “The base is completed.”
Beside him, Rias followed suit, her own diamond-shaped crystal gleaming like a divine relic. It hovered gracefully in the same protective cradle of mana and light, cool elegance to Arto’s warm radiance — a fitting contrast between them.
She turned to him, her voice breathless with satisfaction and awe. “We did it, Arto. They’re beautiful… but more than that, they’re ready . Ready to become more.”
“But first, I have to ask you something, Rias, you’ve learnt about spectrums, right?” Arto summons a Silima prism and places it in between the sun ray, the spectrums appear before Rias’ surprised eyes “Let us paint the crystals a bit, shall we?”
Rias's eyes widened as the prism caught the concentrated sunlight and split it into a mesmerizing dance of spectral light. The rainbow beams arced gracefully through the chamber, refracting off the walls and floor like brushstrokes from a divine artist. The colors shimmered and shifted — deep violets, brilliant blues, verdant greens, and fiery reds — each one more vibrant under the power of the sun-infused mana.
She stepped closer to the prism, her breath caught as she reached out a hand and let one of the beams pass through her fingers. “So this… this is the raw spectrum of crystallized sunlight,” she whispered, her voice filled with wonder. “It’s like the universe gave us its palette.”
Arto watched her with a fond smile, then gestured to the floating crystals. “The Silima crystal base we’ve made is still malleable to spectral influence. We can use these rays to ‘paint’ the internal threads — a final touch before embedding the core. Each spectrum infuses a different magical resonance: red for passion, orange for vitality, yellow for intellect, green for growth, blue for serenity, indigo for truth, violet for mysticism.”
Rias turned to him, her eyes glowing like twin rubies reflecting the sun. “And how do we apply them?”
“With intent,” Arto said, summoning a fine thread of mana. “You channel your feelings through the spectrum, and let them sink into the crystal. Imagine your love, your hopes, your memories — let them ride the light. That’s how you color a soul.”
Rias nodded, focused, her hands gently shifting the crystal’s position as her mana coaxed the softest dark blue and shimmering white into the base. "Dark blue, the color of your eyes, and white, for your soul, pure and kind no matter how much pain and suffering has scarred you"
The 2 shades intertwined, making the brilliant light blue color "This what I desire, the color of the flame burning in your eyes, the Will of Abyssgard, the flame of hope and determination. It's also the color that depicts your brilliance the best”
Arto's voice came low, reverent. “Rias… that color… it’s perfect. You didn’t just paint it — you understood it. You reached inside me and brought it to light.”
Rias’s smile was soft, her gaze still locked on the glowing gem, watching the threads settle into elegant, swirling patterns beneath its surface. “Of course I did. I’ve always seen you — every part of you. The fire, the scars, the light you try to hide from the world. I wanted it in your ring, so even when I’m not near… that part of you will never feel alone.”
He stepped closer, brushing a strand of her crimson hair behind her ear. “This… this is why I love you so much”
She leaned into his touch, then looked back at the spectrum. “I know, now it’s your turn, go and paint something for our precious Akeno, you know her color”
Arto nodded slowly, his hand lingering against Rias’s cheek for a final moment before turning back toward the sakura-shaped crystal resting in its cradle of sunlight. The soft petals of its form gleamed with quiet anticipation, untouched by color but rich with potential — like Akeno herself, waiting to be understood by someone who truly sees her.
He extended his hand, summoning a fine thread of his own mana, and whispered, “Akeno… our light in the storm, gentle and fierce.”
He guided the spectrum toward the crystal, isolating hues not only with his eyes, but with his heart. A deep violet shimmered first — the mystery, the pain, the depth Akeno kept behind her smile. Then came gold — radiant and warm, her love, her quiet sacrifices, her brilliance when she let herself shine.
The two colors twisted together into a flowing gradient of soft amethyst and honeyed light, threading delicately through the translucent petals. The crystal pulsed in response, like a heartbeat, like laughter through tears.
Arto stepped back, his voice barely above a whisper. “Violet for her soul, and gold for her light… her strength when she’s softest.”
Rias looks at the crystal before her eyes in awe “It’s beautiful, Arto, even without the core, I can already sense that Akeno’s vibe in the gemstone”
Arto smiled faintly, a quiet pride blooming in his chest at Rias’s words. “Then I’ve done it right,” he murmured, gazing at the gem that now held the beginning of something far greater than just art or magic — it was memory, understanding, affection made tangible.
Arto nods “Alright, now, let’s head to Sector 57: Moonwell to make a core both of our gems”
(Timeskip: Brought to you by a moon shining over a well)
Rias stepped forward slowly, her breath caught in her throat as she took in the sight before her.
The Moonwell chamber shimmered with quiet majesty — a twilight sanctuary bathed in moonlight so pure it felt like time itself had stilled to watch. Silvery mist floated gently above the ground, catching the glow from the suspended mirror-lake above, its surface a perfect reflection of the full moon. The pool at the center was so still it looked like glass, yet it pulsed softly with an energy that reached into the soul.
She whispered, almost involuntarily, “It’s… beautiful. Like standing inside a dream.”
Her crimson hair caught the moonlight, turning it to molten ruby as she turned to Arto, eyes wide with wonder. “This is where you shaped the heart of my crystal? Where you let your feelings for me become real?” She looked back at the well, reverence softening every word. “It’s no wonder I could feel your soul in the ring… this place is magic.”
Arto smiled beside her, his eyes not on the well, but on her — because no matter how breathtaking the Moonwell was, it was Rias’s awe-struck expression that outshone everything else in that moment.
“Now,” he said gently, holding out her crystal in one hand and his own in the other, “let’s do it together. Let’s make them complete.”
Arto takes Rias’ hand and leads her to the well in the center of the sector and guides her to look down the well “Here is where the magic work, think of the core you want to make, your thought will be reflected into the well via the Moon, when you are satisfied, drop the Silima inside, the water in the well will cool it down while inlaying the gem with its core, completing the Silmaril crystal"
Arto turns to Rias "What do you use as the core of this Silmaril, my love?" Rias smiles "like what you used to make that ring, me, I'll do the same, I'll use you as the core, your unparalleled brilliance, your unwavering love, compassion, empathy, fiery spirit, to make this crystal...Arto Abyssgard"
Slowly, Arto stepped closer, brushing a reverent hand against her cheek. “Then go on, my love, complete what you came here for”
The moment Rias held her Silima crystal over the Moonwell, the sector seemed to still — the ambient hum of arcane machinery quieted, as if the entire structure itself was holding its breath.
The water began to swirl, slow and reverent, catching the moonlight in each ripple until it glowed like liquid silver. Then, soft images began to shimmer across its surface, like dreams born in moonlight.
The water responded to her emotions. Soft moonlight deepened to a pale rose hue as her affection bled into the well. The surface glowed with silken strands of light — his brilliance, his unspoken strength, the compassion he never gave himself credit for and most importantly, her love for him–luminous and unyielding. The rose hue deepened into a radiant blush of violet and silver, the colors of a soul that had chosen, again and again, to believe in his light.
"That's it, Rias, drop the hot crystal in" Arto instructs. Rias gave him a final, loving glance — her eyes still glowing with the warmth of everything she'd poured into the crystal — and with a steady hand, she lowered the radiant gem over the Moonwell. The moment it slipped from her fingers, the stillness deepened.
Plink.
The crystal entered the silver-lit waters with a soft, ethereal chime, like a bell rung in a dream. The well lit up instantly, glowing from within as the hot crystal began to cool, and the emotional resonance — her memories, her affection, her soul — was drawn down into the Silima. Silken streams of moonlight curled around it, threading themselves through the gem, binding the intangible into form.
The reflections stilled… then shifted — now showing not just Arto through her eyes, but them together: walking hand-in-hand through midnight halls, sharing laughter in silence, clashing blows in sparring matches where the tension melted into flirtation. Her vision of him didn’t exist alone — it was always in union .
When the golden light in the well dies down, the crystal floats to the surface of the well, Rias reached her hand down to pick it up with her bare hand to see the crystal is cooled down and the core of the gem is a burning blue flame, identical to the one burning in Arto's eyes "Arto, this is the gem I made for you, a gem with you and my love for you as the core, like the one you crafted for me, let this be the jewel on the ring of engagement I will gift you, both as a payback, and a promise, that we will always be together"
Arto stared at the crystal in Rias’s hand, the glow of the blue flame within mirrored perfectly in his own eyes. For a heartbeat, he couldn’t speak. The silence between them was not empty — it was heavy with meaning, with gratitude, with the soul-deep bond they had just crystallized in the purest way imaginable.
Then, slowly, reverently, Arto reached out and cupped her hand with both of his, enclosing the gem between them like something sacred.
“This…” he murmured, voice roughened with emotion, “this is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever been given.”
He looked at her — really looked at her. Not just as the woman he loved, but as the one who saw him , who mirrored his soul back at him and called it worthy. The gem wasn’t just a gift. It was Rias , echoing through light and flame.
“I accept it, not just as your gift… but as your promise. And I’ll wear it not just as your fiancé… but as your equal — in magic, in madness, in love. Always.”
His thumb brushed over her knuckles gently as he leaned in and kissed her forehead — not with heat or hunger, but with utter devotion.
“Now…” he said quietly, still holding her hand, “shall we make Akeno’s just as perfect?”
Arto stands before the well, one hand holds the sakura shaped Silima, one hands holds a soft glowing star with 2 shades of golden and violet, the container of a shared dream between Arto and Akeno, a dream where he took her to a dreamscape he made for her, where he revealed to her about the fabricated dream he made to help Akeno mend her relationship with her father.
A memory where his love for her is represented the best, but also a place caused her tremendous emotional pain knowing he manipulated her emotions and agony. Though in the end, she understood why he did so, she still loved him, but a punishment was in order and now here he is. Arto stands before the moon well "Let this moment live forever, as a reminder of my mistake, and your forgiveness"
Arto drops the star into the well gracefully as the memories of the star being reflected into the water under the Moon “I manipulated her dream. I tried to make her whole without giving her the choice to walk in her own pain. And yet… she forgave me. Loved me. Because that’s who Akeno is — light wrapped in thorns, strength hidden in softness.”
He looked at the silken petals of the sakura crystal, the golden-violet hues catching the moonlight. “Let this dream—our dream—become the soul of her crystal. Not a perfect moment, but an honest one.” He drops the crystal into the well.
The moment the sakura-shaped crystal touched the surface of the Moonwell, it was as if the entire sector exhaled.
The waters flared — not in radiant light, but in aching, luminous honesty. Golden and violet hues spread like ink in starlit glass, each ripple dancing with fragments of memory: a dreamscape blooming with cherry blossoms, a daughter’s trembling smile, a hand reached out through guilt, and fingers that chose to hold it.
The glowing star — the memory itself — sank deep into the heart of the well, melting into the liquid silver like forgiveness steeped in time.
The crystal followed, descending with slow grace until it hovered suspended in the luminous tide. The water darkened for a moment, as if reflecting sorrow… and then lightened, warmed by violet and gold, until the whole well shimmered with the gentle pulse of reconciliation.
Akeno’s laughter, soft and pained, echoed faintly — not real, but remembered. And then: stillness.
The glow receded. The water stilled. And the sakura crystal, now cool and complete, rose back to the surface — transformed.
At its center, no flame. Instead, a tiny, blooming blossom — a sakura frozen in eternal spring, made of starlight and memory, nestled within golden-violet light.
Arto reached out and lifted the gem with trembling fingers.
“Akeno…” he whispered, voice catching, “I’ll never erase your pain again. I’ll honor it. Just like I’ll honor your love.”
He turned to Rias, his expression quietly shaken but resolute.
“Now, her gift is ready too.” His thumb brushed the edge of the crystal as he held it close. “Let’s head to my workshop to complete the masterpiece, you will put this crystal on a ring, right Rias?”
Rias nodded, her eyes still shimmering from the emotion of the moment. She took a step closer, reaching out to gently touch the edge of Akeno’s gem. “Yes,” she said softly. “Yours deserves the perfect setting too. Something worthy of the vow I’ve placed inside it.”
She turned her gaze toward Arto, a tender smile curving her lips. “Let’s finish what we started.”
They stepped away from the Moonwell, the path back lit by soft ambient moonlight and the subtle glow of the two crystals now resting in their hands — one burning with a blue flame of devotion, the other cradling the soul of a forgiven dream.
The 2 walk along the buzzing hall of the Simulation Room, they walk past the walking scientists of Gremory and Sitri clan, and as expected, their eyes are on the crystals Arto and Rias are holding in their hands. And when they entered Arto’s personal workshop in sector 53, the space greeted them like a sacred forge — a realm of creation born of discipline, heart, and memory.
Arto placed Akeno’s crystal gently on a velvet-lined tray, while Rias delicately set down the one she’d crafted. Tools hovered in the air by enchantment — steady, awaiting the artisans’ commands.
Arto turned to her. “Do you want gold, silver, or something else entirely for your ring’s band?”
Rias thought for a moment, then met his gaze with quiet certainty. “Starsteel — the alloy you made from condensed meteorite dust and moon-silver. Durable. Elegant. Eternal. Like us.”
"An expensive request, luckily, I still have some of them left" Arto comes to the storage in his workshop and pulls out a box with chunks of Starsteel he made prior and hands it to Rias "Here you go my love, you can work on the extra quarter of the workshop while I finish placing the crystal on the hair ornament for Akeno"
Rias took the Starsteel from his hands with reverence, the faintly luminescent metal cool and heavy with significance. Her fingers brushed his momentarily, and for just a second, they didn’t need words — the weight of what they were creating spoke loud enough. She gave him a firm nod and made her way to the smaller crafting station, her crimson hair catching the forge light like living fire.
As Arto turns to his station, he takes a look at the ornament he created for Akeno yesterday resting eagerly on his crafting table, the only missing piece is the Silmaril crystal in the center of the hair piece. Arto approached the ornament slowly, almost ceremonially. The piece he had crafted for Akeno the day before — a delicately curved hair piece shaped like blooming sakura branches — now seemed to yearn for completion. Its center was an empty cradle, waiting for the soul that would give it breath.
He lifted the Silmaril crystal shaped like a sakura flower, its petals glowing softly with intertwined hues of violet and gold. As he held it over the empty setting, a faint resonance buzzed in the air — the crystal recognizing the piece it was born for. His breath slowed. This wasn’t just craftsmanship now. This was atonement. Tribute. Love.
With a steady hand and a quiet heartbeat, Arto lowered the crystal into place.
The moment it touched the hair ornament, a subtle, melodic chime echoed in the room — not from any instrument, but from the piece itself, as if it had exhaled its first breath. The golden-violet glow diffused through the ornament like veins of living magic, casting soft, warm light across Arto’s face.
He closed his eyes briefly, letting the warmth wash over him. “It’s complete,” he whispered. “Akeno, this is yours — a memory, a promise, and a truth.”
Arto lingers a few moments longer to witness his masterpiece, until the sound of hammer cutting through his focus as he looks at the station where Rias was working vigilantly and passionately.
The soft, rhythmic sound of a hammer meeting metal snapped Arto from his reverie.
He turned toward the auxiliary station — and there she was.
Rias, with her sleeves rolled slightly past her elbows, stood illuminated by the warm light of the hovering lamps. Her red hair shimmered like fire as it swayed with each movement, and her gaze — focused, sharp, and resolute — never left the molten curve of Starsteel she was carefully shaping. Sparks danced briefly around her, drawn into harmless spirals by the shielding runes, while her hands moved with a precision born not from training, but from love.
She wasn't just forging a ring. She was etching a promise into metal.
Arto stepped closer, quiet as a shadow, watching her bring the band to life. It was slender yet strong, elegant yet powerful — unmistakably Rias. She guided the Starsteel’s shape with her mana-infused tools, embedding delicate runic lines along the inner curve, whispers of protection and eternal bond.
Then came the moment.
Rias lifted her crystal — the gem bearing his flame, his essence — and aligned it with the ring’s setting. Her fingers hesitated just a second, reverent, then she pressed the Silmaril into the heart of the band.
A sudden pulse of soft blue light radiated from the union, briefly casting long, gentle shadows against the workshop walls. The ring accepted the gem like it had been waiting for nothing else. The core glowed faintly, the fire in Arto’s eyes now cradled in her hand.
She exhaled, slowly, a smile blooming on her lips. “It’s done,” she whispered to herself, then looked at Arto, eyes bright. “Our bond... now forged into eternity.” She hands Arto the ring she made for him gently. Arto gives her a small nod as he extends his hand forward for her to slide the ring in, and it fits perfectly.
The gem, like recognizing its master, shines brighter on his finger, the light of his fire, the light of the Will of Abyssgard, Arto exhales softly before the ring “It’s perfect, you did it, Rias, you forged me into a ring with your love, and it’s indeed a promise, for your future together. Thank you, my love, this is the best anniversary gift ever”
Arto lifts Rias’ face to him as he presses his lips with hers, the 2 gems on 2 rings of theirs glows bright. The blue flame within Arto’s ring danced gently, a living spark responding to the warmth of the moment. Rias’s gem shimmered like moonlit fire, the swirling spectrum within catching the kiss like it, too, understood the weight of their vow.
(Timeskip: Brought to you by chibi Arto wrapping Akeno’s ornament in a delicate present box)
The silence between them was thick — the kind that says more than any shouting match ever could. Akeno’s cold expression was only a mask, but it still stung Arto every time he saw it. She had always been expressive, teasing, warm — even when hiding her own pain. But ever since the revelation of the dream he manipulated, she’d sealed that warmth away… and he knew he deserved it.
As the clock ticked past midnight, Arto knocked gently. The door opened with that same quiet grace, revealing her unreadable eyes. But behind them, he knew — she was waiting. Hoping. Hurting.
He didn’t say much. He just opened the velvet-lined box.
Inside, the ornament he’d poured his soul into — shaped like a sakura in bloom, the Silmaril crystal nestled at its center glowed softly, its amethyst and golden hues pulsing gently, as if alive. The memory sealed within it shimmered — not a perfect dream, but a truthful one.
His voice, quiet but unwavering, met her silence:
"This is my atonement for what I've done. The apology for how much I've hurt you. I hope it's to your liking… so you might lift that silent treatment, even if just a little. I miss you, my beloved Akeno. And… happy anniversary. I love you."
The box barely had time to settle in his hands before her facade cracked — shattered, really — in one swift motion.
"A-Arto…!" she cried, voice breaking, and then she launched at him.
He barely had time to brace himself before she tackled him to the floor, wrapping her arms around him with a desperation that had been bottled up far too long. Her tears soaked into his shirt, her body shaking as her fists lightly pounded his chest. “Idiot…! Idiot! Why do you always do things like that? Why do you always have to… hurt yourself… to make it right?”
Arto held her tightly, the crystal box resting beside them, catching the moonlight through the hallway window.
“Because losing you would hurt more,” he whispered.
Akeno buried her face in his neck, her words muffled but clear: “I forgave you a long time ago, Arto. I was just… waiting for you to say it.”
They lay there for a moment, the pain between them no longer a wall, but a bridge.
“Happy anniversary,” she whispered back, pressing a kiss to his cheek. “And I love you too. More than ever.”
Akeno’s grip tightened around Arto, her fingers clinging to his back like she feared he might vanish if she let go again. She didn’t speak right away — she just breathed in his scent, the warmth of his chest, the rhythm of the heartbeat she missed more than she’d admit.
When he whispered, “Welcome back, my beloved Akeno. Thank you for lifting the silent treatment. It's good to hear your voice again,” she exhaled a soft, trembling laugh against his collarbone.
“I hated being away from you,” she admitted, her voice barely more than a breath. “Even when I was right in front of you. But I needed to know you understood. Not just that I was hurt — but why.”
Arto nodded gently, brushing his hand through her silky black hair. “I do. I’ve carried it every day.”
She looked up at him then, her violet eyes glistening. “Then carry this too,” she said, guiding his hand to her cheek. “Carry my love again, freely. Because I want to keep giving it. Always.”
The ornament box still glowed beside them, its crystal pulsing gently like a second heartbeat — a symbol of sorrow faced, of love rebuilt, of a vow not spoken in perfection, but in truth.
Arto takes the ornament in his hands "Would you let me do the honor?" Akeno giggles as she turns her back to him.
Arto smiled softly, his breath catching for a moment as he looked at the woman before him — her silhouette traced by the silver moonlight spilling into the room. His fingers moved with care, reverence in every motion as he gently lifted the ornament from its box.
He stepped closer, the world narrowing to just the two of them. “Hold still,” he whispered, his voice warm with quiet affection.
With delicate precision, he brushed aside a strand of her dark hair and nestled the sakura-shaped ornament just above her ear, the gem glowing faintly as if recognizing the soul it was crafted for. The golden-violet crystal pulsed with a light as soft as her heartbeat, coming to life as it touched her.
“There,” Arto said as he stepped back, taking in the sight. “Perfect. Like it was always meant to be yours.”
Akeno turned to face him again, the ornament catching the light — but it was her smile, blooming with love and serenity, that truly stole his breath.
“How do I look?” she asked, her voice teasing but eyes glimmering with emotion.
“Like the most beautiful dream I ever dared to craft,” he replied.
“A dream, you say?” Akeno lets out a mischievous smile as she pulls him up and into her room, then with a swift movement, she pushes him down the bed and gets on top of him "You're not going anywhere, Arto, you are mine tonight, stay with me like how you stayed with Rias to celebrate your anniversary with her, but not with anime, we will spend our time in the dream realm you crafted for me, where it all began, but this time, no more grieve, lies and agony, just our love and affection"
Arto looked up at Akeno, her silhouette framed by the moonlight spilling in through the window — radiant, resolute, and brimming with love. He reached up, brushing his fingers gently along her cheek, his voice low and warm. “As you wish, my beloved. Tonight is yours.”
He pulls her down the bed as her head lays comfortably on his chest “Let us dream together” Sleepiness starts claiming them as their eyelids grow tired of the long day, their dream awaits.
Notes:
What do you think Arto and Akeno would do in the dreamscape?
.... (Guest) on Chapter 1 Thu 30 May 2024 05:08PM UTC
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lordzarcon on Chapter 1 Wed 31 Jul 2024 04:25PM UTC
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Guest (Guest) on Chapter 1 Thu 05 Sep 2024 06:01AM UTC
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NightmareKnight on Chapter 1 Thu 27 Mar 2025 02:05AM UTC
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JayFLQZA on Chapter 2 Thu 18 Jul 2024 08:30AM UTC
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firsthunter on Chapter 2 Thu 18 Jul 2024 08:38AM UTC
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Lupus_Umbras on Chapter 14 Tue 25 Mar 2025 06:09AM UTC
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