Rias tugged at my sleeve as we stepped out of the mansion, her crimson hair catching the faint glow of Lilith's artificial sun.
The streets of the capital buzzed with life unlike one would expect from Hell itself.
Devils of all kinds weaved through the crowd, some with wings, others with tails swaying lazily behind them.
If it weren't for these characteristics I might've thought I was in a foreign country instead.
The air carried a faint hum of demonic energy, mingling with the scent of street food.
"Where to first?" I asked, glancing at Rias. Her pout from earlier had softened, replaced by a spark of excitement she couldn't quite hide.
"The market square," she said decisively, pointing ahead. "They've got these little stalls with sweets from the human world-oh, and some devil specialties too. You've got to try the bloodberry tarts. They're my favorite."
"Bloodberry tarts?" I raised an eyebrow, "Is it actual blood or something?"
Rias shot me a sidelong glance, her lips twitching like she wanted to scold me but couldn't quite muster the effort. "No... they're made from a fruit that naturally grows in the Underworld. I said before, we Devils don't eat souls or drink blood! That's for the Vampires!"
"Vampires huh," I chuckled softly, falling into step beside her as we made our way through the bustling streets. ''Fair enough. Lead the way, then."
The market square wasn't far, just a few twists through Lilith's labyrinthine roads, past towering buildings of black stone and glass that shimmered under the crimson sky.
When we arrived, the sight reminded me of some scenes from my childhood.
Stalls lined the open plaza, their awnings draped in vibrant fabrics, reds, purples, golds, each one brimming with goods.
Devils haggled over trinkets, spices, and strange glowing fruits I couldn't name. A vendor to my left waved a skewer of sizzling meat, its aroma sharp and tangy.
Rias darted ahead, her excitement pulling me along like a tether. She stopped at a small stall adorned with trays of pastries, their surfaces glistening with dark red glaze. The vendor, a wiry devil grinned at her.
"Lady Gremory! Back for the bloodberries, I see," he said, his voice warm. "And who's this with you? Wait! Don't tell me..." His eyes widened as they landed on me, recognition flickering across his face. "The Undying Immortal Devil himself? I'm a big fan!"
"Oh?" Seeing my confusion the vendor smiled.
"You see, I'm a Low-Class Devil as well but my King died a few centuries ago. I was taken in by the Noble Family he belonged to but they completely ignored my existence because of my weak strength. My human origins also caused me to be looked down upon. The Devil smiled sadly, "It was a stroke of luck I found an unattended bloodberry field. If not, perhaps I'd have been struggling to survive."
Rias didn't seem surprised by his story, I suppose if she was a regular she should've long known about this.
"Why can't you just go and live in the Human World? As a Devil, life should be pretty... easy there."
This was something I didn't understand. With the powers a Devil has, Low-Class or not, they could live with luxury.
Did the Pure-blooded Devils have a sort of mechanism in place to prevent Reincarnated Devils from simply leaving?
The shopkeeper smiled bitterly, "Actually, who doesn't wish to simply live lavishly in the Human World?
But that's only possible in two scenarios- First, be a Stray Devil and escape. Second, belong to a Master from either a weak household or a ruined household. Devils like me who are property of a decent Noble house will have to report ourselves every three months to the House and explain what we've been doing in detail. If we fail to show up more than twice a hunter team is dispatched to 'punish us. It's life no different than a Stray's." The bitter smile on his face hung depressingly.
But there was a spark in his eyes as he looked at me.
"I watched your duel with Riser Phenex. I'm not really good with words but what I want to say is thank you for standing up for us Low-Class Devils." The vendor smiled brightly before extending two plates towards Rias and me, "On the house, please enjoy!"
Rias had a strange expression on her face, "I know your struggles Ojii-san and trust me, my brother and the current government is doing its best to make sure all Devils live equally without discrimination!"
"I believe you Lady Gremory." The vendor bowed politely before turning to other customers.
My gaze fell back to Rias.
We walked a bit further away and Rias smiled wryly, "He hasn't told the full truth. I guess he must've thought you'd know but when he said he has to report back he also has to pay the house he's serving a certain amount of Merit Points. Merit points are the digital currency used in the Underworld managed by the Underworld Economic Bureau. Merit Points can be gained by salary and doing jobs like fulfilling contracts etc. Devils that lose their Master also lose their right to a salary."
Rias bit into her Bloodberry tart.
"The current Beelzebub created the Underworld Economic Bureau to modernize devil society post-war. He introduced a unified currency and credit system, enabling economic growth and stability. Though Devils jokingly call it 'Ajuka Credits'. I really hope one day the Underworld will change and everyone can live happily."
There was determination in her eyes that blazed beautifully as she chewed on the tart.
The idea was completely naive.
Every human was slightly different from the other, and every Devil was slightly different from the other. Where there were differences discrimination would follow.
It was a cruel reality.
But... if I killed everyone, there'd be no one left to discriminate, right? In a twisted way, that'd fulfill her wish.
I was lost in her eyes and absentmindedly took a bite of the tart.
Its warmth seeped into my lips, and I couldn't help but notice how her eyes lingered on me as I took a bite. The flavor hit me all at once-sweet, tart, with a faint metallic edge that reminded me of iron.
Strange, but good.
I guess the name is justified.
"Well?" Rias asked, her tone teasing as she nibbled at her own.
"Not bad," I admitted, wiping a crumb from my lip. "You've got good taste."
She beamed at that, though she quickly turned away, pretending to study the next stall over. "Come on, there's more to see."
We wandered through the square, picking at little treats, some spicy, some sweet, while Rias pointed out her favorite spots.
Everything was paid by her as I still didn't have a bank account registered.
She talked about the time she'd come here with Akeno as kids, sneaking candy under Sirzechs's nose, and I found myself listening more than I expected to.
Her voice was soft but lively.
As we neared a fountain carved with serpentine figures, a small group of devil children scampered over, their wings fluttering with excitement.
Their eyes were wide, glowing faintly in the dim light, and one of them, a girl with pigtails and a gap-toothed grin, tugged at my sleeve.
"Are you really the Undying Immortal Devil? You're so pretty!!!" she asked, her voice a mix of awe and disbelief.
I crouched down to her level, keeping my tone gentle. "I am. What's your name?"
"Lila!" she chirped, bouncing on her heels. "Can I have your autograph? Please? My friends won't believe I met you!"
The others crowded in, clutching scraps of paper and pens they'd scavenged from who-knows-where. I glanced at Rias, who watched with a faint smile, her arms crossed like she was trying not to look too amused.
"Alright, Lila," I said, taking the first paper. "But only because you asked so nicely."
The kids erupted into cheers as I scribbled my name, nothing fancy, just "Tatsuya" in quick, sharp strokes.
They giggled and whispered to each other, crowding my bent legs in a circular manner.
I heard a few clicks that quite awfully sounded like a camera. I quickly turned my head only to see Rias staring at the sky whistling a random tune with her hands behind her back.
This girl...
A smile involuntarily crept up my lips as the children began darting off once they'd all gotten their prize.
Sirzechs sure has marketed me greatly. Surprising because it's only day three of me being a Devil.
"Didn't know you had such a soft spot", Rias said quietly, stepping closer as I stood. Her tone was casual, but there was something softer in her eyes, something she didn't say out loud.
"They're just kids," I replied, shrugging it off. "Not much to it."
She hummed, not pressing further, and we kept walking.
We stopped by a stall selling tiny glass figurines, and I picked out a dragon-shaped one for her, its scales shimmering red under the light. She took it with a shy "thanks," tucking it into her pocket like it was something precious.
Though it was a bit embarrassing, I was gifting her something with her own money.
After some wandering, we reached a raised overlook. The city sprawled below, a sea of flickering lights. Rias leaned against the railing, her hair fluttering in the breeze, and I stood beside her.
"Isn't it just like the human world?" she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Yeah," I agreed, though my eyes weren't on the city.
Noticing that I was looking at her, her eyes shifted nervously, "What is it?"
"Our engagement next week... what do you think about it?"
"Oh uhm, I mean it's a formality, no?" As she spoke her voice turned softer and softer.
"I suppose it is." I turned to look at the city below, "Lord Lucifer proposed I acted as your fake fiancé till you eventually find someone you truly like."
Rias didn't respond, however, it was clear she wanted to say something if her lips parting and closing again and again were to indicate anything.
"Do you know, at the engagement ceremony we'll have to kiss in front of everyone."
"A-Ah!?" Rias was taken aback and her face flushed crimson, "I guess we do..."
"It's fine if you want to save your first kiss for someon-"
"Shut up!"
Hmm?
Rias finally snapped, provoked by my words, "Just shut up!"
She forcefully intruded into my personal space and grabbed my collar in anger.
"You promised! You vowed!" She gritted her teeth, "You said you'd stay by my side forever! You said that even if I had no one in the world to support me you'd be there! Were you lying!?"
She was practically screaming in my face, all her conflicted emotions burst forth.
I deliberately mentioned the idea of letting her find someone else to provoke her like this. To show her that I wasn't opposed to the idea of her trying to find someone other to love.
With the instruction I gave Tiamat to provoke her, Rias was in a weird but constant state of anxiety.
Perhaps, the idea that I wasn't attracted to her anymore due to Tiamat was lingering in the back of her head.
After all, why else would I mention the idea of her trying to find someone else?
My eyes slowly turned gentle as I looked at the red-headed devil enveloped in a storm of emotions.
I raised my hand and softly stroked her cheek.
"I wasn't lying."
"Then what I want is you!" She declared, yanking my collar and pressing her lips to mine in an awkward, impulsive kiss.
She... kissed me.
My eyes widened slightly but before I could even process what happened our lips parted as Rias looked at me in a daze.
Slowly steam began rising on top of her head and her eyes turned into anxious swirls as she realised what she had just done.
"Oh uhm I- We have to kiss at the engagement right? Right! So I was just p-practicing. I don't want to embarrass the G-Gremory family as the sole h-heiress after all!" Rias' face turned tomato red long ago as she flailed her fingers trying to explain her actions.
"... "
Rias couldn't take it anymore and her wings burst forth, wanting to fly away to hide her embarrassment.
"Waaaah!?"
But before she could fly off I roughly pulled her leg and she crashed into me. We tumbled for a bit before steadying. Rias trembled as her wings and back pressed against my chest. I held her by her arms and deliberately stayed silent for a little while.
I could practically hear her heart drumming against her chest in a nervous flutter.
I kept her back to my chest so that she wouldn't try to escape again seeing my face.
Finally, as Rias seemed to be relaxing a bit one of my arms slid across her stomach and I pulled her in tightly.
"H-Hey!" Rias tried to complain but a chuckle escaped my lips.
"Practice you say?" My words caused her to tremble again, probably embarrassed again, probably wondering why she was so impulsive.
"You seem far too nervous still," I whispered into her ear and my breath seemed to have caused her to shiver, "I think we need to practice more."
I flipped her around abruptly.
My lips crashed into hers, hard and hungry, without any hesitation.
Rias gasped into my mouth, her body stiffening before melting against me, her fingers digging into my shoulders.
I shoved her back against the railing, the metal biting into her hips as I pressed myself flush against her, tongue forcing its way past her lips.
She tasted sweet and as my tongue began exploring the insides of her wet mouth she moaned, loud and unrestrained.
I gripped her waist, yanking her closer, my hands sliding down to squeeze her ass through her skirt.
She arched into me, her nails raking my neck, her breath hot and ragged as our tongues tangled in a wet, messy fight.
"W-Wait!" she stammered between kisses, but I bit her lower lip, shutting her up.
My thigh wedged between her legs, pressing up hard, and she whimpered, grinding against me instinctively.
For a second I stopped, letting her catch her breath.
"Y-Yamamoto-" She trembled and turned her face away, panting from the slightly aggressive exchange.
"Don't worry," I rubbed my thumb over her lips, "It's for the Gremory Family, don't think too much."
"But!"
I kissed her again.
Again and again and again.
Whether she tried to stop, say something, or even push me away, I never stopped.
We continued to kiss for the next ten minutes.
For ten whole minutes, I didn't let her go.
I thoroughly broke whatever hesitations or concerns she had.
By the sixth minute mark Rias had stopped resisting completely, kissing me back sloppily in a daze.
Even as we separated, forming a thin string of saliva between our lips, she listlessly looked at me. She seemed to be absentminded.
"Rias?" I poked her forehead curiously and she began to fall.
"Woah, ah!" I quickly caught her.
"She's unconscious...?" This was something I didn't expect. Was the stimulation too much for this virgin Devil?
Or maybe she forced this state because she didn't want to face me after the steamy session. Given her shyness in these matters, I wouldn't be surprised.
I slowly lowered her and sat cross-legged on the ground.
Thankfully the balcony was private and only accessible to VIPs like Rias.
Placing Rias' head softly onto my lap I summoned Kaguya.
"Had your fun?" Kaguya chuckled and I rolled my eyes, "Show my profile."
She merged back into my body and the familiar System screen appeared.
[Host- Yamamoto Tatsuya (Adrian Frost)
Age- 16 (22)
Race- Devil
Demonic Energy- 24,576 units
World Essence- 26,061 units]
Hmm...
"First things first, Amplify!"
The Demonic Energy inside me began to rage, crashing against the interior of my body as if wanting to break out.
But Kaguya kept it under control, not letting anything leak out.
As for me?
I was immersed in the blissful sensation.
The sheer force bubbling inside me made my head swell with satisfaction.
[Demonic Energy- 49,152]
[World Essence- 9,677]
Now, even without any of my abilities, just with my Demonic Energy alone I could destroy a country.
But this just filled me with dread instead.
If I was already so strong then what about Ajuka who had more than ten times my base strength? Or even the Dragon Gods that should have mana in the millions?
Even with the Hollow Mask my Demonic Energy was only 196,608 units.
A single attack and I could destroy continents alone. I suppose it's not in vain that the Dragon Gods can destroy planets.
As for Beings even stronger than them....
I....
I'm still an ant, huh?
Let's not think about that.
Spin the Wheel.
I mentally commanded and watched as 2,000 World Essence was drained.
Please be something good....
[Congratulations! You've got a Summoning Card!]
Ah...?
A rush of memories filled my mind.
I could feel my heart thump with anger.
Tatsumaki...
"There will be no complications this time," Kaguya appeared beside me, "Back then I was barely conscious and had no idea what exactly was going on before you upgraded the System. My drowsy state resulted in a lack of control over the summoned character. This time you'll have full control over the soul of whomever is summoned. Suicide or betrayal will no longer be an option."
"...That's good to hear."
I never really blamed Kaguya for what happened back then. It was my own ignorance and arrogance that led to that result.
"Let's hope your luck is good. I wasn't inclined to give you a Summoning Card because of the stir it causes in the bridge but since the Heavenly Spirit is already aware of us and won't act it should be safe to do it once."
I see.
It wasn't a surprise that bringing another whole person was much more impactful than a simple ability or item.
Actually, a Summoning Card was what I always wished for in my heart.
I just hope someone useful is summoned.
"You can hide the fluctuations or appearance, по?"
"Rest assured," Kaguya's voice drifted and I flipped my palm over.
A golden card with a luxurious 'S' carved on it appeared.
To use the card I had to just think of it.
A bright light erupted from my palm
****
Much to Tatsuya's surprise, the summoning wasn't instant like before. It took a few seconds until it was complete.
His eyes slowly widened as he saw the newly arrived figure.
She stood in a sleek black coat, a white dress shirt and black tie visible underneath. Her copper-like, reddish-orange hair spilled in loose waves, a vivid contrast to her pale, luminous skin. Her golden eyes, marked with concentric rings, pierced with a sharp, hypnotic gaze.
Her cool and composed face had a slight twitch as she glanced at the seated Tatsuya, who had Rias in his lap.
"Where... am I?"
Makima looked at Tatsuya.
She did not know what was going on.
She had just killed Power to destroy Denji's mental state when she suddenly found herself in this completely new dimension.
Why had she concluded she was in a different dimension?
Because all her contracts had become void.
She could no longer sense her contract with the Prime Minister of Japan, nor could she sense the dominion she had over the other Devils like her.
And that aside, the thing that surprised her most was the raw power being emitted from the person in front of her. Her nose twitched in a sense of horror, despite the expression on her face not changing.
The man in front of her was superior.
She could not attempt to control him.
She was at his mercy.
Her immortality was tied to her contracts, and without them, she would die-die without being eaten like she had assumed by the hands of the Chainsaw Devil.
"Makima?" The man muttered, looking at her as if she was an insignificant being.
Makima's heart thumped with curiosity and wonder.
Just where was she?
Who was the man in front of her?
How had she been pulled to an entirely different dimension?
"Much more beautiful than I expected."
Tatsuya gently placed Rias' head on the floor and walked up to Makima.
Makima did not move. Her eyes simply followed Tatsuya's movements with interest.
"Who are you?"
"Your owner." Tatsuya grabbed Makima's chin with his index finger and thumb. Makima smiled in amusement.
"Are you saying you control me?"
The words were funny to Makima, the Control Devil.
But her weakness was evident. Her amusement was harmless.
"You must feel it, the brand on your soul." Tatsuya let go of her chin as he looked at her with disappointment. Beauty was good, but he had hoped for someone strong to appear.
She may be a powerhouse in the Chainsaw Man world, but in the grand scheme of things, she was an ant.
[Makima - 2,789]
An Ultimate-Class Devil level of strength.
Makima raised an eyebrow at his words and immediately conducted a bout of self-inspection.
The result left her surprised.
There was a mark present in her soul. Now, having peered into it, she could sense her connection to Tatsuya.
"Yamamoto Tatsuya." Tatsuya sighed before turning his back toward her. "I suppose I should brief you about our situation."
Makima smiled and listened.
After he was done there was fascination in her eyes.
"How interesting? Who could've thought that we Primal Devils, formed from human fears, were so insignificant." Makima showed a thoughtful look. "So you're basically some kind of cosmic entity plundering and devouring different dimensions?"
"Indeed."
"What is my role then? Is there a reason I've been summoned? My strength should not be sufficient to aid you."
"You were chosen at random. I did not specifically call for you." Tatsuya laid it bare before continuing, "For now, your only job will be to act as an obedient slave."
"I see." Makima nodded without any dissatisfaction, and this made Tatsuya interested.
"You seem to show no sign of resisting. Does the idea of the Control Devil being a slave not cause dissent in your heart?"
"No need for foolishness on my part. The weak should obey the strong." Makima genuinely believed in her philosophy. A Devil that had existed for so long, her convictions could not be shaken. "And, the idea of mass genocide does align with one of my interests."
Makima's lips curled into a genuine smile.
A peaceful society by any means necessary was one of her goals. Whether Tatsuya wanted to kill everyone in the world or not was irrelevant to her. It aligned with her, albeit in a twisted manner.
However, there was one thing she didn't say.
What she longed for was a meaningful relationship. In her world, she automatically saw every human as inferior to her, creating a master and slave relationship. Even the Devils were no different-the only exception being the Chainsaw Devil, who could permanently erase the concept of Devils.
Though, chasing after the Chainsaw Devil was no longer possible now it seems.
Perhaps her first kind of relationship would bloom with her supposed master now?
Makima wasn't one to dwell too much on situations she could do nothing about. The brand in her soul still gave her a sense of dread.
Time would tell everything.
At the same time-
Tatsuya stared at her, his eyes shining with amusement..
Makima was an interesting individual, but for her to be of any use, he needed to strengthen her.
An idea began forming in his mind as he looked at her.
'Kaguya, can you modify the Evil Pieces?'
"It shouldn't be impossible." Kaguya appeared and floated beside him. She looked at Makima, as if appraising her. "I should be able to give her a 12x multiplier for 2,000 World Essence. Use the Bishop piece that enhances demonic energy."
'Go ahead.'
A Satan-Class Makima was much more useful than an Ultimate-Class Makima.
Tatsuya extended his hand and flipped his palm over.
Makima curiously looked at the chess piece that had appeared on top of his palm. It glowed an ominous red with several gold patterns carved into it.
"Fascinating." Her eyes, which were eerie concentric rings, shone with amazement.
The Bishop piece flew from his palm to her and merged into her. Makima closed her eyes and sensed the changes happening to her body.
The overwhelming power made Makima blush in bliss, though her face became neutral again.
[Makima 33,468]
"How do you feel?"
"I've lost most of my abilities after being summoned, but I should be able to level Japan with just telekinesis alone. If I can form some contracts with unique individuals in this world, I should be able to gain a myriad of abilities again."
"Interesting... Try to control me. I'd like a taste of how it feels." Tatsuya took a step back while smiling at Makima.
Makima stared at him for a few seconds before shaking her head. "It isn't possible. Unless I deem you inferior to me, my ability won't activate."
"A pity..." Tatsuya let it be as he waved his hand at her. "Go down into the city and settle in someone's family for a short while. I'll pick you up in a few days."
He walked up to her and grabbed her by the back of her nape, pulling her into a kiss that started slow but turned wild.
Makima didn't react as his lips pressed hard against hers, his tongue shoving past her teeth to claim every inch. He swirled it deep, tasting her, teasing the roof of her mouth, then flicking against her own tongue in a messy and sloppy manner.
Makima let Tatsuya devour her, his lips sliding wetly over hers as he sucked and bit at her lower lip before diving back in.
Tatsuya marked the entirety of the inside of her mouth with his tongue. Spit dribbled down Makima's chin as her concentric-ringed eyes looked at Tatsuya, her owner.
Tatsuya separated from her in satisfaction and slapped her ass in jest. They jiggled in waves that pleased Tatsuya's eyes. "Even a Primal Devil tastes no different than a human. Go, and remember-don't let anyone touch you. You belong to me now."
Makima smiled professionally, like a clerk would while accommodating a guest, and licked the spit that was dribbling down her chin before bowing 90 degrees. "I understand, Sir."
She turned around and started walking away while her shapely ass was eyed by Tatsuya.
"The charm of a Primal Devil is really hard to ignore, huh..." Tatsuya hadn't intended to touch her at first, but her plump and glossy lips were so inviting that he couldn't resist.
He was a bit miffed that he couldn't get a truly strong support. If not for the fact that her [Control] and the ability to form contracts were going to be incredibly useful, he would've crashed out.
After she left, Kaguya floated before Tatsuya.
"Had you used that special Queen Piece, I could've increased her strength by more than 30 times."
"That's a crazy multiplier." Tatsuya was a bit speechless, and Kaguya shrugged. "It's because she's weak to begin with. Suppose you give the Mutated Queen Piece another modification through me and then give it to someone like Tiamat-her strength wouldn't even double. It's not cheap either. 2,000 World Essence is a lot to spend on increasing someone else's strength."
"Well, the Queen piece still has strategic value. I can't use it yet. On that note, can you modify my own Rook Piece?" Tatsuya asked out of curiosity.
"I can. At the same price, I can make your physical strength increase by 10 times." Kaguya answered lazily, and Tatsuya frowned.
He could understand the mechanism behind it. Enhancing the energy boost the Bishop piece gave, enhancing the physical strength the Rook piece gave...
"That's a bit useless."
Tatsuya would not mind being stronger physically, but using 2,000 World Essence to increase his physical strength by ten times was a complete waste. There were much more useful applications for World Essence.
Ten times his physical strength would let him fight some top-tier Ultimate-Class Devils at best. Perhaps escape from Satan-Class Devils, but that was it.
"Give me another spin instead. You said I could spin thrice, right?"
"Technically, the limit is five times. I gave you three to be safe, but since the Heavenly Spirit is already awake and aware, it wouldn't matter. More than five, and the bridge would collapse unless you're willing to splurge more."
"Sigh, just spin." Tatsuya rolled his eyes. The System in Classroom of the Elite was the cutest.
Kaguya was more rigid and business-like.
Of course, he wasn't serious about it.
Shaking his head, he waited for the ability or item to arrive.
[Congratulations! You've received 'Truth-Seeking Orbs' from Naruto!]
Hmm?
Tatsuya raised a brow as a pleased Kaguya appeared in front of him.
"I didn't anticipate this. Our luck is really bizarre."
"Item information." Tatsuya didn't indulge her small talk. He was only hoping his points hadn't been wasted, and from Kaguya's behavior, he was feeling a bit excited.
Naruto was one of the shows he had watched thoroughly, and because of that, he had an impression of these orbs. Hadn't the creator of Naruto discarded them without any explanation because of how overpowered they were?
[Truth-Seeking Orbs: Orbs of malleable black chakra, which can alter their form and characteristics in various ways. Though only the size of a fist, each hides within it the power to obliterate an entire forest. Truth-Seeking Balls encompass the power of all five basic natures, and as such, they surpass both kekkei genkai and kekkei tõta. By combining the various natures inside the orbs, it is possible to produce a variety of effects. They are capable of instantly turning anything they touch to dust in a manner similar to Dust Release, though this does not always occur. If imbued with a certain Yin-Yang Release jutsu, the orbs can nullify any ninjutsu they touch and thus become impervious to it; this includes negating the regenerative qualities of Impure World Reincarnation, making it possible to permanently damage and kill those reincarnated by the technique. However, the orbs are incapable of nullifying senjutsu.]
Tatsuya took in the information and lazily glanced toward his back, only to find nine Truth-Seeking Orbs floating behind him energetically.
He could feel the instant connection that Kaguya had built for him.
He waved his hand, and one black orbs floated above his palm, spinning slowly.
"Incredible..." Tatsuya began digesting the information, his eyes shining with amazement. "Technically, no amount of elemental magic should be able to harm me now. A shield or armor formed by these orbs would completely nullify the damage-as long as the difference in strength isn't too much."
What did this mean?
Basically, whether it was the Phenex Family or the Leviathan Family, even if they attacked him with every person or troop they had, Tatsuya could just stand there without doing anything, taking the attacks all day long without using his Immortality.
The Truth-Seeking Orbs also had the power to completely erase someone, similar to the Bael Family's Power of Destruction.
Not to mention, he could shape them however he liked-be it a sword, spear, shield, or anything else. It was like his Blood Manipulation, but much more powerful.
The uses were practically endles-
"Hnngh..." A soft groan echoed behind him, and the spinning black orbs quickly disappeared, reforming as underarmor beneath his clothes.
Since he did not have a specific Chakra Mode, the orbs could not be de-summoned at will.
Tatsuya quickly made his way to Rias and picked her up, helping her stand against the railing.
Rias clutched her forehead as her vision cleared.
"Yamamoto?" she muttered, tilting her head in confusion. ''Where are we-"
She froze, and her face began steaming. The memories came crashing in.
To make matters worse, she had become so flustered that she literally lost consciousness.
'SO EMBARRASSING AAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!'
She panicked internally as she faced Tatsuya.
Tatsuya couldn't bear to see her act like this any longer.
"You're being too shy, Rias.'' His voice was soft as always.
Rias flinched upon hearing that.
"No... it's just things are moving w-way too fast. Is it not the same for you!?" Rias was genuinely concerned. Was she the one acting weird?
"It is. We've only met a few days ago, after all."
It was true. Not even a week had passed since they first met in the Occult Research Club.
"Still, so many things have happened, huh..." He whispered.
Rias understood the meaning behind his words. She, too, visualized a flashback of their first meeting up until today.
From thinking he was an abuser, to him joining her peerage, to making promises to her, to fighting for her hand in marriage against Riser, to taming Tiamat in the Familiar Forest, to today....
"Yes, things have been moving fast. That I too accept, Rias, Tatsuya turned to her and smiled. "But... I don't dislike it."
Again.
His words were warm at first glance, but they were also incredibly forceful. They pushed Rias to respond in a similar manner, to give an affirmative answer.
Rias was not mature enough to see through these things.
"I... don't dislike it either." Rias found his words acceptable.
Sure, they had met only a few days ago, but with how much had happened in between, it felt like they had known each other for ages.
It was a weird but warm feeling.
Silence stretched between them, and before long, it was Rias who took the initiative to break the ice.
"So, uh... are we in a r-relationship now?"
"Hmm." Tatsuya didn't answer immediately, and Rias was getting annoyed.
But before she could complain, he forcefully kissed her again.
Rias' face burned as Tatsuya finally released her from the kiss. "Y-You can't just do that whenever you feel like it!"
"Why not?" He smirked. "You didn't push me away."
"That's not the-hnng!" She buried her face in her hands, her ears crimson.
Tatsuya laughed.
"Yes, yes we are."
Teasing her was so much fun.
****
—Elsewhere—
Inside a certain secret base, a meeting was being held.
The decor of the meeting room was not fancy. There was a circular table with multiple seats around it.
"Is the information accurate?"
A holographic image floated at the center of the table.
The image depicted a short clip of a handsome young man. The only thing that stood out was how the young man kept regenerating despite being burnt to a crisp. Wounds healed before they could even be fully carved.
"How fascinating."
"Incredible!"
"Are you sure he was just a normal human before?"
Voices echoed-some female, some male-but all of them sounded young.
"Hmph. Unnecessarily arrogant," a cold voice interrupted the murmurs of fascination. "Focus on the task at hand. The Undying Immortal Devil is scheduled to have his engagement next week. That is the best time to infiltrate and kidnap him. His value is simply wasted with these soft-hearted, peace-seeking fools.
"Correct, but the issue is how can we kidnap him? Not only will Sirzechs and Ajuka be there, the boy also has Tiamat by his side."
"We have enough equipment to ensure we can kidnap him instantly. We're not supposed to engage with them in a prolonged battle anyway." The cold voice turned playful, letting out a hint of mocking laughter. "Tiamat follows the boy, not the Devils. If we can persuade him to join us, we'll gain her support too-and that's for the best. Otherwise..."
The ruthlessness in the voice was no surprise to the members of the meeting.
"Besides, should we face any difficulty, we have-" The owner of the cold voice paused and looked toward the corner of the room.
A small girl sat in the corner, her chin resting on her arms and her legs tucked in.
The cute young girl had long black hair down to her hips and black eyes. Her ears differed from a normal human's, as they had pointed tips, though her long black hair made this feature difficult to notice. She wore standard Gothic Lolita attire.
"-Ophis-sama." There was a hint of excitement in his voice.
The young girl called Ophis looked at the members of the meeting with an amused yet innocent gaze. It seemed as if she was listening but not listening at the same time.
Noticing everyone's gaze on her, Ophis tilted her head and asked a simple question.
"Can he help me regain my silence...?"
-x-X-x-
Amazing.
I didn't notice this before but…
My eyes darted between the fist storming towards my back, towards the gleaming sword reflecting the purple sky lunging towards my chest, towards the pure force of destruction rippling towards me, towards the screeching lightning crackling towards me.
And…the hot flames in the shape of a spear from above.
Time seemed to slow down as I analysed the attacks.
It's a good strategy.
I shifted my body just enough for the sword and fist to whistle past my flesh. Both of my hands shot towards the owner of the physical attacks.
Grabbing their hands I jumped away in a tilted angle.
The lightning, Power of Destruction and Flame Spear collided where I originally stood creating a burst of blinding light as winds of dust kicked up.
…
Two minutes later.
The Occult Research Club sprawled on the open field in defeat.
"This is so unfair! Why can he regenerate?" Ichika complained while panting.
She looked at the unbothered Tatsuya who was chatting with Tiamat and pouted.
"I couldn't even touch him once." Kiba, who was proud of his speed, felt flabbergasted. He looked towards Ichika and smiled, "I'm surprised you were able to attack him without hesitation."
Ichika didn't show any abnormality, "I know Onii-chan, if I pulled my punches he would've pounded me extra hard." She smiled mischievously, "I guess the fact his regeneration is super powerful and that he doesn't feel pain helps."
Ichika was not really clear if that was the case but with how easily he had shrugged off being burnt alive it didn't seem like his pain receptors were working.
Kiba, unaware of the double entendre, hummed in understanding.
"Your control over magic is really insane." Akeno who was sitting cross-legged next to them couldn't help but chime in, "I feel like you're on the verge of becoming a Middle-Class Devil already."
"Hehe, don't tease me Akeno-senpai." Ichika grinned and wiped her sweat off.
Akeno's amazement wasn't without reason. Rias' peerage had all of its members at Middle-Class Devil with Rias' Power of Destruction placing her at the lower end of High-Class Devils for many years.
While Akeno knew it was due to their lack of practice and training, Ichika's growth in just a few days was too monstrous.
Akeno sighed and looked at the pouting Rias before breaking into a giggling fit.
Rias turned to her side and ignored Akeno only to get poked in the forehead by Koneko.
Rias looked at her with confusion and Koneko nodded in understanding, as if comforting her.
"It's okay Buchou, at least it's your husband that's beating you up."
Rias was stunned.
"PFFF!" Ichika couldn't control her laughter and Akeno was on the verge of tears.
Rias looked at them with hatred and turned to look at Kiba who was the only one not laughing.
Well, at least he was trying not to if his trembling shoulders were to say anything.
"I hate you all!" Rias slammed the ground with her fists in anger just as Tatsuya walked towards them.
"What's wrong?"
Rias raised her head and saw Tatsuya's warm eyes.
"Tatsuya! They're making fun of me!"
Tatsuya tilted his head in confusion before chuckling, "I'll give you some private lessons later, just beat them all up in the future and we'll see how they laugh."
"Onii-chan! How can you be so biased!?"
"En En," Koneko poked her head from behind Ichika and nodded energetically.
"Ara ara~ You're buttering your future wife already? Ichika was definitely lying about your dating life." Akeno's smile reached her ears as she teased Rias.
"Hmph, as he should." Rias got up and stood beside Tatsuya with pride, "Plus why would she lie about his dating life? Right, right?" She looked towards Tatsuya who nodded bitterly.
"I had much more things to do than focus on things like love," Tatsuya smiled, "Anyhow get up, we'll do another session."
Rias turned to him in absolute shock, her eyes showing betrayal, "But… my rest…?"
"No rest!" Tatsuya laughed like a demon and the members of the Occult Research Club groaned in reluctance.
…
Half an hour later.
Tiamat aimed her finger towards Tatsuya and a stream of cold water flew into his mouth at a steady rate.
He gulped the water in satisfaction and turned to Grayfia who had been observing the training from the beginning, "Is something the matter Grayfia-san?"
"Oh… not really. Did you really have to knock them all out, Yamamoto-sama?" She looked at Rias and the rest with pity.
"Why be so formal, Grayfia-san?" Tatsuya smiled wryly before shaking his head, "I mean, rest after some training is important no? Since I'm helping them I might as well go all the way."
"You will soon be the husband of the Heiress of the Gremory Family. As a maid of the family, I must be non-negligent." Grayfia's expression never changed. She seemed soft but strict at the same time. Despite acting as a maid her authority and dignity never seemed to be diminished.
"About that, I hope you don't mind me asking but why are you acting as a maid?" Tatsuya scratched the back of his head with an awkward but curious look, "I mean, I've heard a lot about you. They call you the strongest female Devil and the Queen of the Underworld so…"
The corner of Grayfia's lips curled ever so slightly, "I can understand if you're curious. If I were to be truthful it's because of my family background, Yamamoto-sama. I hail from the Lucifuge Family that was part of the Old Devil Faction during the Civil War." Grayfia paused, "Do you know about the war that happened half a millennia ago?"
Tatsuya nodded, "I've been a bit curious about the Underworld ever since I've arrived. I've read a few books that explain the situation."
"That's good," Grayfia nodded with her hands folded in front of her, "The Lucifuge Clan served the original Lucifer as servants and I'm simply following the tradition by serving the family of the current Lucifer."
"Oh? Is it not because you have a dirty fetish of role-playing as a maid?"
Tatsuya was about to nod when a mocking voice cut through their conversation.
His lips twitched as he noticed Grayfia freeze. He turned around to see Tiamat walk closer with a sneer on her face.
"I hope you can keep your assumptions to yourself," Grayfia could not be bothered to squabble with Tiamat.
Why would she lower herself to the level of someone clearly looking for trouble?
Unfortunately for Grayfia, Tiamat had no intention of stopping.
"Did Sirzechs send you here as a maid so you wouldn't disturb his lovely time with others at Lilith? I wouldn't be surprised if he's gotten bored by someone with such a stale and boring personality."
"Enough!" Tatsuya immediately rebuked her and Tiamat looked at him for a second before stepping back, standing quietly behind him as if she had never said anything.
"I'm sorry, please ignore her, Grayfia-san, I…" Tatsuya immediately apologised but before he could continue Grayfia raised her hand.
"Don't blame yourself, Yamamoto-sama." Grayfia smiled, "Someone who has debased herself to the point of having no dignity… it is expected that nothing good will come out of such a person's mouth."
Grayfia was a tough nut to crack, she wasn't a teenager to be easily riled up by Tiamat's words.
"Tatsuya-sama please ask her if the current Lucifer wasn't Sirzechs would she still serve the different Lucifer's House while being Sirzechs Gremory's wife?"
Tatsuya frowned but curiosity flickered in his eyes.
Grayfia sighed inwardly.
Sirzechs was right. This boy has clearly become more brazen than he shows outwardly, he's enjoying this. Perhaps he's actually looking down on me for acting as a maid?
"It is important to draw the line between tradition and respect. No matter how important traditions are, it wouldn't be worth it to sacrifice the happiness of my family." Grayfia replied elegantly.
Tiamat sneered but before she could say anything Tatsuya raised his hand.
"Please take my sister and the rest inside to rest. Look after them."
Tiamat didn't hesitate and turned around, following his command.
Grayfia watched her go and narrowed her eyes.
"I think you should remain wary of her, Yamamoto-sama." Grayfia turned to Tatsuya, "Her intentions are clearly very suspicious. She's a Dragon King who has lived for a very very long time. It is evident that she has hidden plans."
"I won't deny it… What do you suggest I do?" Tatsuya seemed troubled and Grayfia also showed a pondering look.
"We can only observe for the time being," Grayfia shook her head, "She hasn't really done anything that would count as hostile." Grayfia paused, "Of course… if Yamamoto-sama does not wish for her to follow him around you can simply ask for help from Lucifer-sama. As your Brother-in-law, he surely won't let you be pushed around by Tiamat."
"Sirzechs-san huh…" Tatsuya nodded with a smile, "I'll definitely ask for help if she does something suspicious. Thank you for your advice, Grayfia-san."
"It is my duty," Grayfia bowed lightly, "I shall take my leave as well, Yamamoto-sama."
Tatsuya didn't react outwardly but he guessed something was wrong. Why was she suddenly declaring her intention to leave? It was a bit too abrupt considering her usual behaviour.
As she turned around Tatsuya hurriedly grabbed her shoulder. He squeezed lightly as Grayfia turned around with a frown.
"Ah, sorry!' Tatsuya removed his hand and chuckled awkwardly, "I was just wondering if you could train me too. I don't want to lag behind as everyone improves."
Grayfia's eyes lingered on his hand for a second before she nodded, "That is of no issue, it'll be my pleasure to help you, Yamamoto-sama."
After finishing her words she left, leaving Tatsuya standing alone in the open field.
"Hmm… This will be fun." A chuckle escaped his lips.
He looked forward to spending time with the strongest female Devil of Hell.
Tatsuya knew nothing of the incoming storm.
With the confirmation of the engagement, the most important hurdle had been cleared and most of his plans had begun to settle down.
Issei, Asia and Makima could be introduced formally after the engagement as his peerage members. Tiamat and the Queen piece would continue to work as bait for the Satans of the Underworld.
Once the engagement ceremony was finished he could gain more freedom in his actions. As long as Rias was under control Sirzechs would find it hard to act against him.
To Tatsuya, besides the threat of death in a year, everything else had been going smoothly.
But alas, things were bound to spiral out of control.
…
Tatsuya's days passed by in a relaxed manner. Teasing Rias, training with Akeno, Ichika, Kiba and Koneko, and lastly sparring with Grayfia.
His engagement was now two days away.
At the moment, both Grayfia and Tatsuya were alone in a sparring hall.
Tatsuya was sweating profusely.
Grayfia teleported behind him and struck his back with ice magic. Her face was devoid of emotion as Tatsuya was blasted away and crashed into the reinforced walls.
A layer of frost shone over his body as Tatsuya pulled himself off of the wall and fell to one knee on the ground. He panted while looking at her with admiration, "You're really amazing, Grayfia-san."
This was the third-day Grayfia was sparring with him.
Today was a slightly special class.
Grayfia intended to test Tatsuya and also make him aware of how dangerous it was to fight someone stronger than you in an enclosed space.
The sparring hall was already looking like it was from the Antarctic.
"Magic, especially Demonic Magic can be really brutal Yamamoto-sama. As a physical fighter, you are especially prone to the dangers magic that erupts from imagination possesses."
"Well, I experienced that first hand didn't I?" Tatsuya spoke as his wounds began to heal without any fanfare, "Magic really is amazing. Not only did you make the entire arena slippery, but you also made the frost accumulate in my joints, periodically disrupting my movements at crucial times. I've learnt much…"
When punching Tatsuya would find he could not fully extend his arm, when kicking there would be frost around his knees, when trying to dodge frost would bind his waist and neck.
She was freezing the area around his limbs to her pleasure without a hint of effort.
Why?
Because he was posing as a physical fighter.
And Grayfia was highlighting all his flaws as a physical fighter not knowing his true self being a Super-Class Devil, a God.
Grayfia looked at him intently. Healing magic wasn't rare but even the fastest she had observed, the Phenex Regeneration, had a burst of flames that stitched their wounds.
But Tatsuya?
His regeneration was eerily silent. The wounds, the scratches, even the holes she made through small knives and spears were filled up and crawled back into place like jelly.
It was as if there was a law that Tatsuya could not be harmed no matter what.
Even the Immortal Devils, the Phenex had a limit to their regeneration but Tatsuya…
Grayfia shuddered just imagining a Maou-Class infinitely regenerating enemy. She inwardly shook her head.
A former human with zero magical talent and lack of any sacred gear, reaching the peak of Ultimate Class was already a stretch, it'd be a miracle if he reached the level of a Maou.
She let go of her delusional thoughts and shook her head at Tatsuya, "I have to praise Yamamoto-sama, if this were actual hand-to-hand combat I dare say I would lose without much struggle."
"That's…" Tatsuya hesitated to accept the praise and Grayfia smiled.
"Your acting was really great during the fight with Riser Phenex. Were it not for these training sessions I wouldn't have known this side of you, Undying Immortal Devil." Grayfia, uncharacteristically, teased Tatsuya, "There's no need to be modest. Your control over your physical body and incredible precision make it hard for anyone to win against you in a fair physical fight, perhaps in the Underworld only Sairaorg Bael can match you in this aspect."
"Rias' cousin?" Tatsuya wouldn't act completely ignorant, "I've heard about him from Rias. He seems like quite the character."
"Indeed, his life has not been the most smooth sailing but through effort alone he has come a long way, establishing himself as the Heir of the Bael Clan."
"It's admirable…" Tatsuya got up and dusted the shards of ice off of him. He exhaled, letting out a breath of frost.
"Say Grayfia-san, do you drink?"
"Hmm?" Grayfia was stunned by the sudden question.
Is it finally here? I thought he would wait till after his engagement at the very least… or perhaps because the engagement has yet to happen is the very reason for his abrupt offer.
Grayfia was sad as the light in her eyes dimmed.
No need to think so much... I just have to follow Lucifer-sama's instructions.
Asking a married woman for drinks… the intentions behind it didn't explicitly need to be said.
"Does Yamamoto-sama drink? I believe you've just turned 18 according to your birth certificate."
"There's a lot of things I've done before turning 18 that should have me serve a lifetime in jail, drinking is the least of my worries." Tatsuya showed a bitter smile, his demeanor gave no hints of him having any malicious intentions, "I'm used to drinking alone but I thought maybe… nevermind you don't have to agree Grayfia-san, I must've been out of my mind making such a disrespectful request. Forgive me."
He bowed in apology.
Grayfia sighed.
She looked at him and felt confused.
Was he speaking sincerely? Was he acting?
To an old Devil like her, it was certainly a mystery that she couldn't figure out the intentions of a mere 18-year-old.
"It is of no issue to accompany Yamamoto-sama for drinks. It is my duty to be at service to those of the Gremory Household but please understand if I don't indulge much." She bowed lightly and Tatsuya couldn't help but smile in response.
Grayfia began to create a teleportation circle which only took a few seconds after which they both disappeared.
It didn't matter if she couldn't figure his intentions out. All she had to do was comply with his demands and slowly figure him out. By drinking with him she could also let him lower his guard and influence him towards a path in favor of the New Devils' Faction.
…
In a private room, both Tatsuya and Grayfia appeared.
Tatsuya looked around curiously and he immediately noticed a few things.
"Is this… your room, Grayfia-san?" Tatsuya's lips twitched.
There was a big… a really big photo frame of Grayfia, Sirzechs and their son Millicus hanging on one of the walls.
How bold, or perhaps this is how Devils operate?
To bring another man into her own private room that she shared with Sirzechs to drink alone was quite the decision.
He walked to one corner and smiled.
Near the bed, on the adjacent wall to the right side, there were multiple little frames of a baby Rias. Some when she was just a year or two old and some when she was five to six years old, there was also one where she was riding a Griffith with a frightened expression with Sirzechs laughing in the back.
Grayfia walked next to him and explained, "I suppose you can tell how much he adores her." She looked at the Griffith that Tatsuya was eyeing and her lips curled, "This was when he personally took Rias-sama to get her Evil Pieces."
"Ah…" Tatsuya nodded and his eyes moved towards another particular frame which was slightly… odd.
"This…?" He questioned and Grayfia was a bit stunned before she broke into a chuckle, her mesmerizing voice drifting into his ears.
Seduction?
Tatsuya snorted inwardly but showed a slight change in expression in response to her giggle.
Grayfia acted as if nothing happened, she looked at the frame of Rias crouching behind Akeno and Kiba while hiding from a Camel before speaking, "I don't exactly remember why but it seems like Rias-sama has been afraid of camels from a young age."
"Camel-phobia?" Tatsuya was bewildered, having question marks over his head, "Pff ahahaha!!!"
A genuine laugh escaped his lips. He couldn't believe it. A Devil princess being scared of regular camels. He'd have to confirm this later for sure.
While he was laughing, Grayfia had already prepared a pair of glasses and alcohol.
The small circular table had two chairs opposite to each other, likely where Sirzechs and Grayfia sat together when drinking.
Grayfia picked up the bottle of deep crimson liquid and poured two glasses.
"HeartBlood," she said, sensing his curiosity. "A rare vintage only accessible to the Nobles of the Underworld. It's not often shared with outsiders."
"You honor me," Tatsuya said dryly, accepting the glass.
Grayfia's lips curved slightly. "Consider it a gesture of goodwill. You are to be family soon."
He took a sip. The taste burned, sweet and heavy, like liquid embers.
"Strong," he muttered.
Grayfia's crimson eyes never left him. "You handle it well for a former human. I've heard of some Low-Class Devils getting knocked out instantly."
Tatsuya smirked. "That's quite the heavy treatment, is this punishment for asking you to drink together?"
"Not really, I was certain with your strength you should be able to handle it well." Grayfia was still in her maid uniform as she picked her glass up and took a small elegant sip.
Tatsuya watched her intently, his face going slightly red from the alcohol. He had to say, she wasn't lying about the effect of the wine.
A silence settled between them, not quite comfortable, not quite hostile.
Just waiting.
-x-X-x-
A silence settled between them, not quite comfortable, not quite hostile.
Just waiting.
Then, Grayfia spoke again.
"You seem… at ease here."
Tatsuya swirled his wine, watching the way it formed a spiral pattern, "Should I not be?"
Grayfia tilted her head. "Most humans would be overwhelmed by the Underworld and becoming a Devil suddenly…"
Tatsuya's smirk faded. His grip on the glass tightened, just for a second, before he set it down calmly.
"Let me tell you something, Grayfia-san," he said, voice low. "The Underworld is much more comfortable than Earth."
His eyes darkened.
"Every night for years, I hunted Stray Devils. Fallen Angels. Anything that slithered near my house, my locality." A bitter laugh escaped him. "Pathetic, right? Some dumb kid playing hero, thinking he could clean up the world with his fists."
Grayfia didn't interrupt.
Tatsuya's fingers traced the rim of his glass. "I didn't kill them. Just broke bones and left them bleeding. Figured that was enough." His jaw clenched. "I was naive. Turns out, Devils heal fast too."
The air grew heavier.
"One of them came back." His voice was flat. "Not for me. For my parents."
Grayfia's fingers froze around her glass.
Tatsuya didn't look at her. "After that, I learnt the harsh reality. It was about making sure nothing got close to Ichika." His knuckles whitened. "Every night. Every damn night, waiting for something to crawl out of the shadows and—"
He cut himself off, exhaling sharply.
"I'm the one who killed our parents," he declared, "Doesn't feel great if I were to say." Tatsuya smiled softly, "Well at least now…"
A long silence stretched between them.
Then, in a similarly soft tone, Grayfia spoke. "And now?"
"Well, Sirzechs-san promised he'd protect her, right?"
"You trust Sirzechs-sama's protection that much?"
Tatsuya met her gaze evenly. "I trust that he won't let harm come to Rias…and by extension, Ichika." He took another sip. "That's enough."
"...I see, so that's why you adamantly refused Ichika's request to transfer to your peerage despite Rias-sama having no problem."
When Tatsuya had gotten his Evil Pieces, Rias had suggested for him to take Ichika in as it would be suitable. With the issue of Riser having been solved Rias had no reason to force Ichika to stay in her peerage, nor would she feel like she was losing anyone because Tatsuya was her Rook, and her future Husband.
Tatsuya's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Yeah, I don't care what you Devils have planned nor do I care much about your schemes. I may not have experience spanning centuries but I'm not dumb. Sirzechs' love for Rias is real, and Rias' sincerity towards her is real… that's what matters."
"Schemes?" Grayfia hummed thoughtfully, "Your abilities," She decided to move the conversation forward. "Your regeneration. Your strength. They're… unusual. Isn't it understandable if we're wary? Is there a source for them?"
Grayfia seemed tipsy herself, but besides the slight flush of redness on her fair smooth cheeks there was no change. If Tatsuya had to nitpick something it would be that she was being overly talkative.
Tatsuya shrugged. "Born with 'em. No idea why."
Grayfia's gaze sharpened. "And that doesn't concern you?"
"Concern me?" Tatsuya let out a harsh laugh. "Lady, when you're fighting for your life every night, you don't stop to ask why your fists crack concrete. You just survive."
Grayfia didn't respond.
It wasn't that she couldn't understand him. She had been through something similar, during the Civil War that occurred half a millennia ago she had seen hell. She had seen how Devils slaughtered each other without regard, how her family had been on the side that wanted the slaughter, how despite her unwillingness she had killed thousands herself, how… how… how…
If she were to begin to count, she could continue forever.
She sighed, everyone had their sorrows.
But wasn't it the wish for sorrow to vanish why she had defected, betrayed the Old Devil Faction?
While she was mulling over her thoughts Tatsuya noticed her dazed expression, he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "Now, my turn for a question."
His voice was bold and daring, containing a playful edge.
Grayfia didn't mind it, attributing it to the alcohol.
She arched her brow. "Oh?"
"Why did you agree to drink with me?"
Grayfia took another sip, "As I said, it is my duty to serve the Gremory household."
"And here I thought you might just enjoy my company."
Grayfia's lips curled slightly. "You flatter yourself, Yamamoto-sama."
"Maybe." He chuckled. "Or maybe I'm just trying to figure out why the legendary Grayfia Lucifuge is so indulgent to a mere fiance who has yet to officially become part of the Gremory Family."
Grayfia set her glass down calmly, it didn't seem like she was going to drink more.
"You are engaged to Rias-sama. That reason alone is sufficient."
Tatsuya's smile faded slightly. "Let's be honest, is it not because of my uncanny abilities? Is it not because that scary but mentally ill dragon is following me around like a slave? Sirzechs sent you to keep an eye on me, didn't he?"
The air grew heavier.
Grayfia didn't deny it. "...You are perceptive."
"It's not hard to guess." Tatsuya sighed. "I'm an unknown variable. A former human with inexplicable power, suddenly engaged to the sister of the Lucifer. Of course, he'd be cautious."
Grayfia studied him carefully. "And how do you feel about that?"
Tatsuya leaned back, his expression softening. "I don't blame him. If I were in his position, I'd do the same." He finished his drink. "But here's the thing, Grayfia-san, I have no interest in causing trouble. I won't lie and say I love Rias but that won't stop me from cherishing her, love is complicated and I can't say I dislike her. As long as the future is harmonious we'll eventually become a real couple… She's cute."
Grayfia tilted her head before smiling and nodding.
"That is reassuring to hear…" Grayfia's smile became softer, "I've raised Rias-sama like my own little sister. It'd be a shame if she were to be hurt."
Tatsuya noticed the atmosphere turn icy, it forced him to become sober.
He smiled wryly, "I understand."
His gaze towards Grayfia began to shift.
Grayfia noticed this.
Sigh…
"Would you like some more wine?" Grayfia pretended not to notice and asked.
Tatsuya's eyes flickered with hesitation before shaking his head, "I'll withdraw. I'm too tired, I'd like to rest. I wouldn't want to waste any more of your time."
"Really? I have nothing much to do. As a maid, my duties are somewhat limited and I'm free till tomorrow." Grayfia unexpectedly didn't let him leave and insisted he stay.
Tatsuya froze just as he was about to get up. His gaze shifted from the blood-red wine to the drop-dead gorgeous woman sitting across him in a maid outfit.
Perhaps it was the wine but Tatsuya felt his body heat up.
The will to just let go and ravage her right here blazed inside him. He closed his eyes before taking a deep breath.
"I see."
Grayfia smiled and filled their glasses again.
Is it because the date of the engagement is too close? I was planning to have some daily drinking sessions with her before coaxing her into my will. Sirzechs must have given her some freedom in this regard according to his personality otherwise she shouldn't have been so accommodating despite how rudely I glared at her that day.
He looked at her once again.
Did Grayfia not notice the lust in his eyes?
A man and woman, alone in a private room, drinking to their hearts' content.
Grayfia drowned her glass in one go, startling Tatsuya.
"It's fine, the strength of this alcohol is too weak to cause me any problems," Grayfia explained, knowing Tatsuya must find the wine hard to consume.
"No… I thought you said you wouldn't be indulging yourself."
Grayfia shook her head, "I haven't."
Tatsuya looked at her flushed face and was speechless.
"I've heard you vent, so it's only fair you listen to me now." Grayfia's voice began to change. The usual strictness and rigidness were nowhere to be seen.
"Do you know how boring my life is? My strength has reached its full potential and I have yet to improve after hundreds of years. The household is always empty with Venelana and Zeoticus partying or indulging themselves elsewhere. Sirzechs is always busy with work, Rias stays on Earth and tending to Millicus is all I have left to do. But even that job is starting to fade away as he grows older and spends time with his friends. And me? Cleaning already clean windows, cleaning already clean tables, I wanted to be a maid! A maid that did her job! A proper Lucifuge that serves the Lucifer! A maid that tends to the members of her household, to support the heirs and heiress', to provide comfort to her Lord, but I'm left with nothing to do! Is this fair!? If there's one hobby I have besides being a maid it's drinking and even then Sirzechs refuses to accompany me most of the time!" Grayfia slammed the table with her fist, causing it to shake, but a magic symbol flashed, protecting the table, "Tell me Yamamoto-sama, is it fair?"
Holy fuck!
Tatsuya was flabbergasted, he looked at the furious Grayfia and his jaw dropped.
This bitch… she's drunk!
Grayfia did not care about his musings as she picked the bottle up and started drinking straight from it. The sounds of gulping echoed in the room as a single trail of blood-red wine trailed down her chin disappearing into her bosom. She slammed the bottle down on the table and stood up before grabbing Tatsuya by his collar.
"Is it fair!?"
She's lost it!
Not strong enough wine my ass!
What the fuck!?
He faintly understood why the table had a magic formation to protect it. If this was what Sirzechs had to deal with whenever they drank then he could understand why he avoided it.
"U-Uhm, Grayfia-san calm down, we can talk peacef—"
"Shut the fuck up, you dirty lecherous dog!" Grayfia pulled him in closer, "Don't you fake stutter in front of me. You must've been twisted from birth if you're acting so much just to lay your hands on me. Is that it? Enjoying the process rather than the fruits?"
"I don't understand—"
"Oh you understand, you definitely do. Treating you like a normal 18-year-old was Sirzechs' biggest mistake but I don't blame him. No matter what kind of cunning or dirty plan you had in mind, you were useful, you were willing to be used in exchange for protection and… you were weak." Grayfia's grip tightened as the naive and innocent look on Tatsuya's face began to vanish, "But Tiamat! That filthy dragon for some reason decided to leave her cave and follow you around like a dog, creating more trouble for us."
She glared at Tatsuya, "You think I'd be willing to let you touch me so many times during the spar just because you're Rias' fiancé? That I ignored all of your intentional brushing against my body as a mistake or coincidence? You think I'd be here drinking and venting to you if you didn't have that damned dragon following you around?"
Why had Tatsuya suddenly asked her to drink with him?
Because during the spar he had no intentions of hiding his beastly nature. Her thighs, her breasts, her legs, all his touches were filled with ill intent that Grayfia should clearly be able to feel.
But not once did she frown or show any dissatisfaction.
Tatsuya had gleaned the truth.
Just like he wasn't hiding his intentions, Sirzechs' side was also declaring their intentions clearly.
Tatsuya couldn't help but admire Sirzechs' mental fortitude to a certain degree. How much did one have to care about their species to let a stranger touch their wife all they want?
This was some next-level cuckery.
Tatsuya grinned as he raised his hand and placed it on top of Grayfia's own hand that was clutching his collar. Grayfia frowned and slapped his hand away with disgust.
"Showing your true nature already?"
"You're acting as if I'm committing some kind of big crime. A beautiful woman like you would cause any young man's heart to throb with desire. Forgive me Grayfia-san but it's hard to control myself."
"Hmph, don't act coy with me. You have that beautiful dragon following you around. Are you telling me you haven't laid your hands on her? Or is going after the woman of another man getting you off?" With a flushed face, she spoke words so crude that Tatsuya wouldn't even imagine she would say while being sober.
"As if, you think I'd dare touch that dragon with my meagre strength? Ordering her around is the limit of my guts. She's clearly on the level of Sirzechs-san who is the literal leader of Hell. Do you think I have a death wish?" Tatsuya scoffed.
"Well, at least you know your place," Grayfia smirked and began downing the alcohol again. She emptied the bottle and threw it away causing it to shatter with a crash.
"You're wild." Tatsuya couldn't help but admit, impressed by her change in demeanor just from liquor, "I suppose there's more that frustrates you? Like…" he shot up from his seat and grabbed both of Grayfia's hands before slamming her into the wall.
Thud.
Grayfia growled as their faces were separated by an inch.
"How your husband won't mind if I…" Tatsuya traced his thumb over her wet glossy lips still stained by wine.
Pa!
A slap caused Tatsuya's face to whip harshly to the side.
"Let go!"
She kicked him and he stumbled before looking at her with a crazed look, "Hahahahahahahahahaha, how dare a maid not know her place, are you disobeying the command of your Lord?"
His words caused Grayfia to freeze in her tracks.
Tatsuya didn't mind the blood that trickled down his lips. The fiercer she was; the more prideful she was, the more he would enjoy this.
With a beastly expression, he stood behind the frozen Grayfia.
"It's not hard…" He leaned down, whispering into her ear from behind, "All you have to do is disobey."
Words as sweet as the wine she drank echoed.
Grayfia saw the huge shadow form in front of her as he closed in from behind. Two massive hands rested on her shoulders, squeezing her flesh through the clothes disgustingly.
"It's not like you were ever a true maid. You're the strongest Queen of the Underworld. The strongest female Devil. You surely won't let a lowly Reincarnated Devil like me have his way with you, right? All you have to do is disobey him, Grayfia. Let your strength out, let your rage out. Blast me away, freeze me into an unreliable sculpture. All you have to do is disappoint Sirzechs and cause me to drift away from Rias… drift away from the faction that stood against the Old Devils."
Grayfia clenched her fists, her nails digging deep enough to draw blood.
"It's not hard, Grayfia." Tatsuya's hand began to slither down her shoulders, tracing her delicate and soft forearm. His fingers lovingly caressed her arms as he repeated himself, "Just disappoint Sirzechs, just make Rias sad, just let me harbor dissatisfaction with your faction. That's all you have to do."
Tatsuya leaned in closer, his face right next to her. Grayfia did not need to turn her head. All she had to do was move her eyes, move her eyes to see the twisted face of Tatsuya grinning madly at her, eyes full of wicked desire.
"Oh wait… but you can't." His words hammered into her, "You cannot disappoint Sirzechs, you cannot make Rias sad, you cannot afford to lose my favor. Isn't that right… Grayfia-san~?"
Grayfia had planned to indulge him while being drunk. Drunk to the point she wouldn't have to remember what happened, drunk to the point the disgust she felt would've been numbed by the liquor.
But the liquor had caused her to lose control, to vent her emotions… to the wrong person.
Besides her probably no one would ever come to know the beastly nature of this man. Grayfia could feel his warm hands slide into her clothes. She gritted her teeth. Could she tell Sirzechs that Tatsuya was a perverted maniac? Perhaps. But what would be the result?
Nothing.
Unless one witnessed what she was seeing, no one would believe how deeply disturbed this individual was.
Grayfia's gut churned, disgust filling her core. She wanted to unleash her power, to freeze him into a lifeless husk. But Sirzechs' trust, Rias' future, bound her like chains, rooting her in place.
The liquor held her down, it helped her endure.
His fingers slithered down, breaching her blouse, grazing the lace of her bra. Each touch was a violation, his soft skin scraping her softness. Her breasts, trapped in their confines, felt unbearably exposed, as if her dignity were stripped bare.
"So soft," Tatsuya murmured, his lips brushing her ear, hot and wet. His hands cupped her chest, squeezing with deliberate cruelty.
Her flesh was moulded under his grip, a sharp sting radiating from where his fingers dug in.
Grayfia's heart hammered, blood roaring in her ears. Shame flooded her, a tidal wave drowning her pride. A tear slipped down her cheek, hot against her flushed skin, as his thumbs grazed her nipples through the fabric.
"You're not fighting..."
He taunted, putting on a deliberate mask of confusion before showing her an expression of sick realisation.
"Hngh~"
His fingers dug into her exposed milky breasts with even more force.
"...ah right, you can't."