🌙 The Calm Before the Storm - Rias's Worry
Lucien stood on the balcony connected to his study, his pale blue eyes fixated on the distant horizon. The soft glow of the moon bathed the estate in an ethereal light, its quiet beauty a stark contrast to the storm of thoughts swirling in his mind. The night was calm, yet the weight of the Rating Game, the politics, and the growing pressure of expectations loomed over him like a storm cloud just waiting to break.
His thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock at the door, and Lucien, expecting it to be one of his fiancées, rose from his spot. To his surprise, it was Rias, standing in the doorway with a faint, almost imperceptible crease of worry on her brow.
Lucien smiled as he opened the door, gesturing for her to enter. Her presence, familiar and grounding, eased some of the tension in him, but the quiet between them seemed to amplify the unspoken thoughts swirling in their minds.
They both stood in silence for a moment, gazing out at the sprawling grounds of the Lucifuge estate. The air between them felt heavy, as if the world itself was holding its breath, waiting for something to break the silence.
Finally, Rias spoke, her voice soft but edged with concern. "What's your plan for the Rating Game?"
Lucien glanced at her, noting the subtle tension in her posture and the quiet unease in her gaze. He had known this conversation was coming; Rias was never one to hide her worries, especially when it concerned him.
"You're worried about my peerage, aren't you?" Lucien replied, his tone understanding, almost immediately catching onto the reason for her concern. His words were more than a question; they were an acknowledgment of her unspoken fears.
Rias nodded, her gaze shifting to the estate grounds below. Her fingers tightened around her wineglass, a subtle sign of her unease. "You only have five members in your peerage," she said, her voice tinged with worry. "Six if you include yourself. Meanwhile, Cyrus has a full peerage. That's a huge advantage."
Lucien's expression softened as he gave her a thoughtful look. He had considered the disparity in numbers, but numbers weren't everything. He'd always valued the quality of his team over the sheer quantity of members, and he trusted his people, his family, far more than any group of strangers.
"I know," he said, his voice calm but resolute. "I've thought about it." He turned his gaze back to the grounds below, his mind running through the strategies they'd been honing. "But we're not bound by the same rules as Cyrus. You've seen what my peerage can do. Ghislaine, Yue, Kuroka, Yamato, and Rangiku are all stronger than most devils with full peerages. I trust them more than any group of strangers."
Rias's gaze lingered on him, her frown still present, but there was a flicker of something else in her eyes. The confidence in his voice offered a sense of reassurance, but her worry wasn't so easily dispelled. Still, his words had given her something to hold onto.
"But it's still risky," she admitted, her voice lowering, as though weighing the cost of her words. "A larger team means more options. It's harder for a smaller group to compensate for weaknesses in combat or strategy. You'll be facing more than just Cyrus. There's politics, too, and the fact that this challenge is about more than just winning, it's also about sending a message. Why don't you ask Onii-sama to help you find a few extra members? I know he will help you since you are his only son."
Lucien met her gaze, his gaze unwavering. He had heard her concerns, felt them, but he wasn't about to let them dictate his next move. He had a clearer vision than anyone else. This wasn't just a game to him; it was his declaration.
"I'm not here to play it safe," he said, his voice a low promise. "We'll have to play our hand differently, but we'll do it on our terms." He straightened, his resolve clear. "The Rating Game is a tool. We use it to show strength, unity, and resolve. I will lead them into this Rating Game. I won't let us be defined by our numbers, but by our strength. We already hold an advantage; our strength lies in what we achieve together. I don't need my dad's help yet. I promise that I will ask him if I need help, Ria-chan."
Rias studied him for a long moment, her eyes searching his face as if looking for cracks in his resolve. But all she found was the same unshakable determination that had always been a part of him. Her concern was still present, but it now mingled with something else: admiration.
"You never stop surprising me, Lucien," she said softly, her gaze softening as she placed a gentle hand on his arm. "Just... be careful. You're already dealing with so much. If you win this game, it'll open doors. But if you lose..." Her voice trailed off, and Lucien understood the weight behind her unfinished sentence.
He looked down at her hand resting on his arm, feeling the warmth of her touch seep into him. Her concern was tangible, but so was the trust she had in him. Lifting his gaze to meet hers, Lucien nodded, a shared resolve passing between them without a single word.
"I won't lose," he said firmly, his voice thick with conviction. "Not now. Not when the world is finally within reach. Plus, I can shut up that flame chicken of a fiancée of yours."
The quiet that followed was heavy, but it was the kind of silence that two people shared when they understood each other without needing to say anything further. Tomorrow, they will train hard for the upcoming Rating Game. It would be the starting chapter of their legacy, their fight against the forces that would try to control them.
Rias stood beside him, her presence a comforting anchor amid the storm to come.
After Rias left, Lucien sat in the quiet solitude of his study, and a silent hum of magic surrounded him as he opened his inventory. His gaze lingered on the case before him, one that contained the remainder of his Evil Pieces. It felt like a weight on his chest, a tangible reminder of the task ahead and the future that hung in the balance. Slowly, he reached for the case and unlocked it. The pieces inside shimmered in the dim light of the room, each one a key to his future, each one a potential force that would shape his path.
His fingertips traced over the pieces: eight pawns, one rook, one knight, and the system-bestowed bishop that pulsed with quiet significance. The bishop piece pulsed with a faint glow. He could either summon a powerful magic user like Merlin, or he could use it to enhance his overall peerage. Each piece was an opportunity for growth, a chance to strengthen his side. His thoughts raced through his options, weighing each possibility with the same care and precision that he had used to choose his initial peerage as he grasped the knight piece. He saw brief images of potential knights: Seako Busjima. Her raw power and battle experience were undeniable, but did he need someone like her to serve as his blade? Luna Runcandel, sharp, intelligent, with a calm resolve. Syris Agentheim, a true knight, with undeniable potential. And then there was Shigure, a seasoned warrior who could serve as a powerful anchor. But, in the back of his mind, a more dangerous thought lingered: Frost General Esdeath. The gamble of trying to win her allegiance was risky, but if she could be swayed, her power would be a mighty asset.
Next, his hand brushed over the rook pieces. There were strong candidates here as well, like Leone, whose strength and leadership were hard to match. Nobara Kugisaki, always reliable and fierce, could be an invaluable asset. Shion, a warrior of unparalleled resilience, would bring immense strength to his peerage. And then there was Mereoleona, a fire that could rival his own.
His mind shifted to the pawns, where a host of familiar names stood. Expert assassin Yor Forger with unmatched grace. Momo Yaoyoruzu, brilliant and resourceful, would add much-needed intelligence to the group. Mikasa Ackerman, with her resolve and unparalleled combat skills, was a tempting choice. Kazehana, Nightingale, Delta, and Adeshan all had their merits, each one capable of bringing something vital to the table.
But even as he thought over these potential recruits, Lucien's mind shifted back to one fact: this was not just about power. It was about making a statement, about building something meaningful, a legacy that would transcend his immediate ambitions.
Lucien returned the case to his inventory, a sense of unease stirring in his chest. His decisions were weightier than ever, but his resolve remained unbroken. Tonight, sleep would have to serve as his solace. For the first time in months, Lucien would be sleeping alone. His body sank into the bed's velvet softness, and it wrapped around him like a long-awaited comfort. His thoughts swirled, a storm of possibilities and worries clashing inside him. But soon, his wearied mind drifted into a dream.
The void swallowed him, then Lucien found himself suspended in an infinite sea of starlight and darkness. The colors bled together like oil in water, a mixture of void and celestial light. Time seemed to slow as Lucien floated, the weightless sensation both calming and unsettling. He had no idea how he got here. He had only closed his eyes for a moment.
And then he saw her.
A figure emerged from the shadowed expanse, tall, graceful, and overwhelming in her presence. The woman before him was the most beautiful being Lucien had ever seen. Her skin was as pale as jade, her crimson eyes glowed with a warmth that seemed both inviting and terrifying. Her long black hair flowed like a waterfall of midnight, streaked with violet and woven with glimmers of shadow and starlight. Her crown wasn't ordinary, but twin spiraled horns of ruby and obsidian, which gleamed in the dark. It wasn't just regal. It was dangerous. A tight-fitting black dress clung to her body, showing off her stunning curves.
Lucien felt his breath catch in his throat as he gazed at her. His body responded to her in ways he couldn't explain: intense desire, awe, and fear all at once.
"Lucien…" The woman's voice was soft, but it resonated deeply in his chest, sending an electric shiver down his spine. "I think you know my name. Don't you, my sweet Luci?"
Lucien stammered over his words, "You're Li…Lilith! The mother of all demons."
Her laughter was like music, dark and melodic. "That's right, my sweet boy. They called Aphrodite divine, Freya radiant, and Ishtar irresistible, but compared to me? They were merely a candlelight flame compared to a shining star."
Lucien tried to regain his composure, his mind racing. He opened his mouth to speak, but the words came out in a rush of questions, "Why did you reincarnate me? How is my grandfather? Is he still in good health?"
Lilith purred, "My dear, your grandfather thrives. He honored your final wish by opening orphanages and giving financial support to schools. At the same time, he continues to support the artist you championed. He even forged a media empire in your honor, giving your chosen artists a stage worthy of their dreams."
She drifted closer, her hourglass figure catching his gaze. "You have the same fire in your eyes," she breathed, "it's the same my husband wore when he defied his mother for me. Oops," she added with a teasing grin, "I wasn't supposed to mention that God was a woman." She whispered in his ear like a siren, "You're my special one now, dear."
Thunder cracked, and lightning flashed across the dark sky, the sound rumbling like a warning, shaking the very fabric of the dream. It was like Lilith had touched a taboo of the world. The world seemed to pause for a heartbeat as Lucien's mind struggled to process the weight of her words.
Lucien blinked, shocked. "What do you mean? God was a woman?" He felt a sharp pain when he tried to think about the bombshell Lilith had just dropped.
Lilith's smile curled, mischievous and playful. "You'll learn more when you're stronger, my sweet boy. Perhaps one day, you can make me yours."
Before he could respond, she leaned in, planting a soft kiss on his forehead. "Remember, you have a path to walk, Lucien. And when you are ready, I will be waiting for you."
With a snap of her fingers, the dream unraveled into stardust, leaving Lucien awash in the silence of the night. His eyes snapped open, and the world of dreams dissolved into the cold reality of his room. His breath was shallow, his heart still racing.
[System Notification]
[Ding Ding: New Mission Active]
Objective: Perform a flawless victory in the Rating Game. Show what happens when your loved ones are threatened.
Rewards:
Legacy Peerage Expansion Protocol for yourself and one person of your choice.
Lore Unlock: The ancient Pillar Houses once led legions. Few today remember that power. But the System remembers. And you have been chosen to resurrect it. Anyone you choose to share the expansion protocol with will gain the same authority to summon peerage members as the host.
Weapon Material: Ancient Legendary Essence.
Lore Unlock: Ancient forging material used to form God-tier weapons.
Specialized dungeons: The host can train his devil's powers. ( Power of Destruction, Umbrakinesis, and Cyrokinesis)
Penalty:
Reputation among the devil race will drop by 20.
System functions will be suspended for one month.
Physical consequence: Reduction in genital size by half (permanently).
Lucien sat up in bed, his fingers pressed hard against his temple, and a heavy sigh escaped his lips as he rubbed his face. The weight of the mission before him bore down like a crushing weight. This challenge, this Rating Game, was no longer just a battle of strength; it was a statement. A declaration that he was not to be underestimated. His victory, he was certain of, was inevitable, but the consequences of that victory would ripple through every corner of the Underworld.
He clenched his fist, the intensity of his focus manifesting in his every movement. I will make them see who I am and who my peerage is. This Rating Game is just the beginning. I'll crush Cyrus and his peerage into the dust. Let him serve as a warning to all, a lesson in pain for those who dare harm those I love.
His thoughts shifted to the reward of his first mission. The Legacy Peerage Expansion Protocol... His gaze turned inward, picturing the immense power that could be brought into his peerage with this gift. He considered Rias, the peerage she had, and what they could achieve if she could summon the likes of Mirajane Strauss, Aisha Belka, or even Alpha from Eminence in the Shadow. The possibilities are endless, Lucien thought, a sense of anticipation and strategy flickering behind his eyes. She would be unstoppable... if only she knew how to wield that power properly.
The image of Rias, having both her strength and potential amplified by such powerful figures, made him smile, even if it was only for a fleeting moment. Then a thought struck him like lightning: perhaps the specialized dungeons held the key to awakening cousin Sairaorg's dormant power of Destruction. His thoughts were quickly interrupted as he remembered the penalty. He shifted uncomfortably, gripping his crotch with fear. The penalty bound to the mission's reward pressed on his mind like a blade yet to fall. The consequences were clear. He had to win. Not just for his own sake, but for everyone he cared about. The last thing he wanted was to have a reduction to his manhood.
Shaking off his brief fear, Lucien gathered himself. I'll wipe the floor with Cyrus and his peerage. They won't know what hit them.
Lucien then made his way to the dining room, the eerie quiet of the manor surrounding him. As he stepped inside, he immediately noticed that his peerage members were nowhere to be found. His gaze flickered to Narberal, his ever-competent maid, who had been quietly preparing the space for breakfast.
"Have you seen my peerage this morning?" Lucien asked, his voice low but laced with a hint of concern.
Narberal, as always, was composed. "Master, Lady Kuroka awoke them all early for breakfast. They proceeded to the training grounds afterward. They are currently engaged in individual training, particularly focused on the two forms of Haki that they learned from Lady Yamato."
Lucien's lips curled into a small smile, his mind drifting to Kuroka. "I see," he muttered, his thoughts deepening. "Kuroka must think that the Rating Game is her fault... after all, she's the one who promised never to cause me trouble. She must feel responsible for everything at stake now. I only hope she knows her limits and doesn't overextend herself or the others. "
Narberal didn't respond, but her eyes softened. She was aware of Kuroka's guilt and how it weighed heavily on her, especially as the battle neared.
The conversation drifted as Lucien, having collected his thoughts, proceeded to the dining area. By now, Albedo, Velzaria, Rias, and her peerage had joined him for breakfast. The clinking of silverware and the soft murmur of voices were the only sounds that accompanied Lucien as he ate in silence. His mind was already far from the table, focused on the challenges ahead.
As breakfast concluded, Lucien exchanged a brief nod with Souma, his trusted advisor. Narberal remained close, ever watchful, as they all made their way to the territory planning chamber. The room was filled with the scent of parchment and fresh ink, and maps sprawled across the long table. Lucien's crimson eyes flickered over the maps, the regions of his expanding territory in focus.
Souma, as always, was diligent in his planning, pointing out zones for infrastructure, trade hubs, and even mystic research centers. Lucien approved of the suggestions, his mind already jumping to the next step. His hand slid over the Territory Expansion Token and Permit, his fingers brushing the symbols of power. This was only the beginning.
Lucien shifted his focus to the next order of business, summoning more workers to improve his territory.
He turned to the center of the room, pulling out the Rare Summon Tokens from his inventory. A glimmer of apprehension flickered in his eyes. He knew the power of the system, but this was different. He needed the right talents, those who could help him and Souma improve the territory.
"Let's see what the system brings," Lucien muttered, his voice thick with anticipation.
He stood tall, casting the three glowing orbs into the center of the summoning circle. A pulse of energy filled the room as the system flashed:
[Rare Summons Activated]
Summoning...
First Summon: Bulma (Dragon Ball)
Second Summon: Sylpha Langlis (I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability)
Third Summon: Enda Mode (The Incredibles)
The air grew heavy with power, the summoned figures materializing in a flash of light. Souma, always the observant one, leaned back and gave Lucien a calculating look. "Are all the recruits going to be this... terrifying?" he asked, a touch of amusement in his voice.
Lucien grinned, watching the figures appear before him. "The useful ones are normally a little terrifying," he replied with a wry smile. "But I hope you and Narberal can get along with our new members."
Lucien scanned the three newly summoned members. He had already decided their roles, but now it was time to make it official. The air was thick with anticipation as he addressed them, his voice firm yet respectful.
"Sylpha Langlis," Lucien began, turning his gaze to the battle maid and sword saint. "You will join Narberal as the second battle maid of House Lucifuge. Your skills will be indispensable for fortifying our defenses and navigating the razor's edge of covert operations, where you will work alongside Grayroad. Narberal will be your guide, but I expect you to make your mark here. Your combat expertise and sword skills will give our forces a much-needed edge."
Sylpha nodded with a respectful bow, her eyes gleaming with determination. "I won't disappoint you, my lord."
Lucien then turned to Enda, who stood confidently with her arms crossed, her sharp eyes already sizing up the room.
"Enda," he continued, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, "you will focus solely on enhancing the fashion of the Underworld. I know it sounds unconventional, but fashion is an often-overlooked tool in wielding power. By influencing the appearance and tastes of the elites here, we can not only increase our territory's wealth but also strengthen our influence. You can ask my right-hand, Souma, for anything you need in terms of resources or ideas. He's the mastermind behind our infrastructure, so I trust you'll be in good hands."
Enda grinned, her eyes bright with excitement. "I'll make sure the Underworld has a whole new look. It's time to turn heads." She chuckled, already envisioning the chaos she could cause with a new wardrobe for the most powerful figures of the Underworld.
Finally, Lucien turned to Bluma, the tech genius whose potential had yet to be fully realized.
"Bluma," Lucien said, his voice steady but with an edge of admiration. "You will be tasked with working on inventions and improving the technology of the Underworld, starting right here in our territory. I want you to push the boundaries of what's possible. Your intellect rivals even Ajuka's, and I have no doubt you will transform our world in ways others can only dream of."
Bluma smiled confidently, a glint of challenge in her eyes. "Leave it to me, Lucien. I'll make sure we're not just ahead of the curve. We'll set it."
Lucien nodded, his expression one of quiet approval. "I trust each of you will thrive in your roles. Together, you will help lay the foundation for our future. Let's show the Underworld what House Lucifuge can do."
Lucien's Fashion Designs for Enda
Lucien turned toward Enda after addressing the others, his mind working with the complexity of his plans. He stepped forward, pulling a set of elegant scrolls from his coat.
"Enda," Lucien began, his voice now more personal, "I want you to start with the people closest to me. Fashion speaks volumes about power, and every detail matters. I'll need you to begin by creating attire that suits the most influential figures of our house and territory." He handed her the scrolls with a deliberate, confident gesture.
Enda unrolled the first of the scrolls. Light danced across the fabric, revealing a symphony of opulent textures and sophisticated motifs. "These are the designs I want you to review first," Lucien said, "They are based on the attire of those close to me."
The first scroll contained the detailed image of his mother's gown, the one Grayfia wore when attending the Council meetings. It was an immaculate piece, both simple and regal, made from black and sapphire fabric. Draped in a gown over her maid-inspired armor, she moved with the grace of a blade wrapped in silk.
"This is my mother, Grayfia," Lucien continued, watching Enda as she studied the design. "Her attire reflects her role as a powerful but quiet presence. Her elegance is in her restraint. I want you to capture that essence for the women around us, especially in the more formal settings."
Enda nodded, scribbling down notes as she examined the images. "I see what you're going for. Elegant and simple, but with an edge. It speaks authority without trying too hard."
Lucien handed over another scroll. "Now, take a look at my aunt, Serafall. This is her most formal attire, though it's vibrant and bold, a far cry from Grayfia's more muted style. "He gestured to the second set of designs, a flowing and dramatic gown with crystalline accents in hues of deep blue and white. Serafall's outfit screamed her cheerful, powerful nature, but it also revealed the regal strength beneath.
"Serafall's attire has a personality of its own. It's about being noticed, standing out, but not in an obnoxious way. She commands the room without even trying," Lucien explained.
Enda's gaze lingered on Serafall's design, her eyes glinting with understanding. "I get it. She's not about subtlety, she's about making a statement."
Lucien handed over one final scroll. "And then there's my father, Sirzechs," he said quietly. "His attire speaks of an understated power, a combination of formal wear with the added weight of being the Maou. The details are intricate, but it's still simple compared to Serafall's. There's an aura of calm strength with his choice."
The final design was of a tailored suit, with a long, flowing cape adorned with his family's sigil. The fabric was a deep crimson, with gold accents outlining his shoulders and arms, symbolizing both his nobility and the power he wielded.
"I want each of you to understand that our territory is not just about military strength or influence. It's about presentation. We are warriors, yes, but we must also show the world that we understand how to command attention." Lucien paused, watching Enda's thoughtful expression as she processed the information.
"I'll make sure the designs reflect your family's essence, elegance, strength, and boldness," she said, a playful smile curling her lips. "And maybe make them even better while I'm at it. No more capes, darling."
Lucien chuckled softly, nodding. "I trust you. The Underworld won't know what hit it when they see the fashion overhaul." He looked over to Souma, who had been silently observing. "Souma, I expect you to be involved in the logistics of distribution, making sure that these designs are accessible to our upper echelons. No one should be left unaware of the new era we're ushering in."
Souma adjusted his glasses with a small smile. "Understood, my lord. The plans will be implemented without delay."
Lucien turned back to Enda. "I'll leave the clothing designs in your capable hands, but don't forget the fashion will be tied to a message. We're sending a statement to the Underworld that House Lucifuge is rising. And that includes our clothing."
Lucien was making his way to the training grounds, his mind already calculating strategies for the upcoming Rating Game. He needed to ensure everything was in place for the inevitable showdown with Cyrus and his peerage. As he walked through the halls of the Lucifuge estate, however, he was stopped by two of the most important women in his life, Albedo and Velzaria.
Lucien smiled as he looked at the two, "What can I do for my two stunning fiancées?"
Abledo chimed, "We have guests, my dear."
Lucien looked stunned. "Who are our guests?"
Before he could get an answer, a voice rang out from behind him, followed by the unmistakable sound of someone leaping toward him.
THUD!
A glittery missile collided with his chest, nearly knocking the wind out of him.
"My dear Hellson, your favorite magical girl Hellmom has arrived," came the loud and unmistakable voice of Serafall Leviathan.
Sona shook her head in embarrassment. "Big sister, can you stop it and remember that you are Maou and the head of foreign affairs?"
Serafall paid her no mind. "Lu Lu loves it when I hug him like this. Right, Lu Lu, tell So-tan to stop being mean."
Lucien tried to regain his bearings. He gave Sona's older sister a wry smile. "Serafall, you're the Maou. I thought you'd be more dignified about coming to meet me, even though I am your Hellson."
Before he could further object, another stunning figure entered the room. A devil with curves and beauty that could rival any actress in a Hollywood film. She looked like a spitting image of Jessica Rabbit, her presence commanding attention the moment she stepped into the room. This stunning woman was none other than Aunt Jessica, Albedo's mysterious aunt.
Albedo gave a devilish grin and introduced the new arrival with a wink. "This is my Aunt Jessica. She came by to discuss business, darling."
Lucien blinked, momentarily stunned by her appearance, but quickly regained his composure. He gave a curt nod and greeted her with a polite smile. "Aunt Jessica, a pleasure. Albedo, dear, can you show your Aunt to the meeting room, and I will be right there?"
Albedo smiled, curled with intent, eyes gleaming with a seductive spark that dared you to look away. "Anything for you, darling." She skipped off with her stunning aunt in tow.
Serafall, ever playful, continued her antics. "Lu Lu, look at my cute So-tan's peerage!" she teased.
Sona sighed, adjusting her glasses with a touch of embarrassment. "Big sister, please," she said, shaking her head. But despite the chiding tone, there was a warmth in her voice that Lucien appreciated.
Sona calmly introduced her peerage to Lucien, adjusting her glasses with quiet composure. The girls stepped out from behind her, each representing a unique and distinct personality:
Tsubaki Shinra, Queen (Kuudere) – calm, polite, and unfazed by the situation.
Momo Hanakai, Bishop (Dandere) – shy, soft-spoken, always clinging to Tsubaki's sleeve.
Reya Kusaka, Bishop (Deredere) – endlessly cheerful, always beaming at everyone.
Ruruko Nimura, Pawn (Genki Girl) – bouncing excitedly, already asking about sparring.
Tomoe Meguri, Knight (Yandere) – gentle smile, eyes too sharp when glancing at Lucien.
Selica Valtine, Pawn (Tsundere) – snappish, defensive, flushes red when Lucien greets her kindly.
Tsubasa Yura, Rook (Kamidere) – supreme confidence, acting like a literal goddess among mortals.
Serafall Leviathan, watched nearby with teary eyes, whispered to herself, "Only girls? Did she really pick only girls? Sona-tan, are you trying to break your big sister's heart?!"
She dramatically collapsed against the wall, with hearts floating above her head. "But they're all so cuuute! Looks like Big Sis will have to adopt them all, too!"
Lucien couldn't help but chuckle at Serafall's antics, shaking his head. With the introductions concluded, Lucien quietly guided Sona and her peerage to their temporary quarters, the momentary distraction leaving him with a smile before he retreated to the meeting room.
Back in the training hall
Back in the training hall, Lucien's peerage was pushing themselves to their limits. Each member focused on refining their skills for the upcoming Rating Game. He had Grayroad observed from the shadows, making sure they didn't push themselves too hard.
Kuroka pushed herself relentlessly, striving to merge the armament and observation haki disciplines she learned from Yamato with her own long-mastered Senjutsu and Youjutsu techniques. She made mirage copies of herself as she continued to train herself.
On the other side of the hall, Ghislaine and Rangiku tested each other in a fierce sword duel, each strike a clash of power and precision. Both warriors were pushing their limits as they practiced their future sight, attempting to predict the other's next move. Their swords clashed, sparks flew with every blow.
Rangiku had the advantage, thanks to her years of experience. She released her Shikai with a flick of her wrist, and the sword transformed into a cloud of ash. "Let's see if you can handle this, kitty." Her voice was firm and playful as her blade scattered into thousands of tiny, sharp fragments. Rangiku controlled the ash, her sword now a weapon that attacked from every angle.
Ghislaine, gritting her teeth, did her best to defend against Rangiku's assault. Her body was marked with fresh cuts, blood tracing the gashes across her skin. The straps that barely covered her chest were torn, leaving her exposed to the attack.
*BOOM!*
Ghislaine was driven back by the assault, her body marked by several fresh cuts. Blood traces the fresh gashes across her skin. Her revealing straps that only covered her breasts lay torn open further under the assault.
She barely managed to stay standing. She grinned as she whipped the blood from her mouth. "I haven't fought like this in ages. I feel alive."
Before they could continue their duel, the other girls intervened, sensing that it had gone far enough for now. They agreed to head to the hot spring inside the manor to relax before lunch.
Hot Spring – Kuroka's Guilt and Comfort
Kuroka sat in the hot spring, her body relaxed, yet her mind a mess of emotions. She leaned back against the smooth stone, her tail flicking gently in the warm water as Yue sat next to her, offering the kind of quiet comfort that only she could.
"You know that Lucien doesn't blame you, Kitty?" Yue's voice was calm, soothing, as she placed a gentle hand on Kuroka's shoulder.
Kuroka's shoulders slumped, and her ears drooped. "I promised that I wouldn't bring Lucien any trouble after he saved me. He has been too good to someone like me. He took me as one of his fiancées, and the first thing I did was get him involved in a Rating Game!" Faint tears fell from her eyes.
Rangiku and Yamato slam their hands down hard as they both say in a low voice. Rangiku explains how she lost the man she loved, Gin Ichimaru, who died. Followed by Yamato telling how she had to find out that the man she loved, Portgas D. Ace, was executed without being able to tell him how much she loved him.
Rangiku was the first to speak. "I know how you feel, but Lucien is still alive, and you have us fighting beside you. So stop blaming yourself. He showed that he is willing to gamble everything to defend your honor."
Yue, the ever composed one, spoke. "Go talk to him, Kuroka. He isn't mad at you. If anything, Riser probably wanted to test our dear King's temper just so he could look good in front of the nobles at the banquet, or to show off to his fiancée, Rias.
The words of her friends provided the comfort Kuroka needed. She nodded slowly, a small sense of peace washing over her. "I will. I'll speak to him after we finish our training."
As the group relaxed in the warm waters of the spring, they all vowed to give their best in the Rating Game. The girls all vow to fight for each other and give their all for Lucien in the Rating Game.
Meeting with Aunt Jessica
Later, in the grand meeting hall, Lucien's war council gathered, the room alive with the flickering light of the roaring hearth. Velzaria and Albedo stood by, the latter's obsidian armor shimmering like molten ink. Lucien entered, taking his place at the head of the long obsidian table, maps, migration charts, and faction treaties sprawling before them.
Albedo sat on his right, while Velzaria took the seat on his left. Seated beside Albedo was her aunt Jessica, a striking succubus whose presence radiated quiet authority. She moved with the sultry grace of a devilish Jessica Rabbit, her allure sharpened by the prestige of the Vermilla clan. The room bent toward her the instant she arrived.
Velzaria spoke first, her voice velvet over iron. "My flamekin has settled in well," she reported. "The lava basin burns beneath the watchful eyes of salamanders and their fire-forged kin."
Jessica chimed in with a touch of professional restraint, though her seductive tone hinted at something else. "Succubus nobles from House Vermilla have begun establishing entertainment and commerce districts. Clubs, taverns…" She hesitated, then sighed, before admitting, "And even brothels too."
Lucien blinked. "I… suppose that was inevitable."
"Aunt Jessica," Lucien said, arching a brow.
Jessica grinned. "Heard you were building an empire, son of Grayfia. The Vermilla family appointed me to oversee all succubus-run enterprises until my dear niece, Albedo, is ready to take the reins."
Velzaria smirked, while Albedo chuckled darkly at her aunt's boldness. Lucien only smiled, his mind racing with the knowledge that his family and allies were truly expanding into a power not to be trifled with.
And so, with each move, the foundations of their empire were being laid, and with it, a greater threat was looming on the horizon.
Lucien's war council had just gained another dangerous player.