Fellow masters in arms. Greetings!
I'm thrilled to announce that the latest chapter is now complete. I'd love for you to give it a read and share your thoughts—feedback is always welcome!
I do not own any property of the Fate series or High School DxD, except my OC's
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The Underworld is a vast, sprawling realm steeped in ancient power and dark beauty. Its skies are a perpetual twilight, painted in hues of deep purple and crimson, casting an ethereal glow over the land. Black landmass floats in the air and forests stretch across the horizon, interspersed with grand, opulent cities that reflect the pride and wealth of the devil families.
In a grand mansion the sound of faint rustle of papers being shuffled in a lit office. Sirzechs Lucifer, the current Maou of the Underworld, sat at his desk, surrounded by towering stacks of paperwork. His crimson hair, dark as the night but blaze like fire, was slightly disheveled, a testament to the long hours he'd spent drowning in bureaucratic duties.
The soft click of heels echoed through the hall outside his office, followed by a gentle knock at the door.
"Come in," Sirzechs called, not bothering to look up from the document he was signing.
The door opened to reveal a white-haired maid, her posture impeccable as always. "Lord Sirzechs," she said, her voice calm and measured. "You have a visitor."
Sirzechs let out a tired sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I'm busy, Grayfia. Whoever it is, tell them to leave and it's rude to come uninvited."
The maid, without hesitating before continuing. "It is Lord Riser Phenex."
At the mention of the name, Sirzechs stoped. Slowly, he set his pen down, his expression tightening ever so slightly.
"Of course, it is," he muttered under his breath. After a brief pause, he stood and adjusting his suit, smoothing out the creases. "Very well. I'll see him in the Drawing Room."
The Drawing Room was lavishly decorated, the opulence of the Gremory family's wealth on full display. A young man with blonde hair and piercing eyes stood near the center of the room, his posture confident and his presence radiating arrogance.
Riser Phenex turned as Sirzechs entered, and the shift in his demeanor was immediate. The air of superiority he carried dissipated in an instant, replaced by a polite smile and a respectful bow.
"Lord Sirzechs," Riser greeted, his tone smooth. "It is an honor to be in your presence."
"Lord Phenex," Sirzechs replied, his voice warm but carrying an underlying edge. "To what do I owe this... unexpected visit?"
Riser straightened, his eyes gleaming with purpose. "I'll get straight to the point, my lord," he said, his tone measured. "I have spoken with the High Council, and they have agreed to move forward with the engagement between myself and Rias Gremory. Preparations for the wedding will begin immediately. Lord and Lady Gremory have been informed as well."
For a moment, Sirzechs said nothing. His smile remained intact, but his eyes darkened ever so slightly.
"That's rather sudden," he said, his voice calm. "The original agreement was to wait until after Rias graduated college. She's still quite young, and I believe it's too early for her to take such a step."
Riser's smile widened, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "With all due respect, my lord, the word of the High Council is absolute. They believe this union will strengthen the bonds between our families and fortify the underpinnings of our society. Surely, you understand the importance of such an alliance."
Sirzechs folded his hands behind his back, his expression unchanging. "Of course," he said smoothly. "However, I cannot help but feel that my sister's happiness is being overlooked in all this. She has expressed her desire to choose her own path, and I intend to support her in that."
Riser's brow twitched slightly, but he maintained his composure. "Lady Rias will come to see the wisdom in this arrangement," he said confidently. "And I assure you, my lord, that I will treat her with the utmost respect and care as her future husband."
Sirzechs smiled faintly, hiding his anger. "I'm sure you will, Lord Riser. But before that, I have only one condition. Grayfia will be going with you as a mediator, to make sure things are settled fairly."
The tension in the room was palpable, The Maou presence overtakes the Phenex.
Hesitant, the arrogant boy nodded in acceptance.
After a moment, Riser bowed again. "Thank you for your time, Lord Sirzechs. I look forward to the day our families are united."
Sirzechs inclined his head slightly. "Safe travels"
As Riser left the room, Sirzechs's polite mask slipped, his expression darkening.
Grayfia, standing by the side of the room with her usual poised demeanor, finally spoke. "Lady Rias will not take this sitting down," she said, her voice steady but edged with concern.
Sirzechs glanced at her, a faint, weary smile tugging at his lips. "Of course, she won't," he replied. "She's a Gremory, after all. But the High Council has made their stance clear. Even if I protest, they will not back down."
Grayfia's silver eyes narrowed slightly, her hands clasped neatly in front of her. "Then what do you intend to do, my lord?"
Sirzechs's expression softened, a flicker of determination lighting his sapphire eyes. "I intend to rely on the strongest Queen to help me," he said, his tone carrying both trust and gravity.
Grayfia's gaze didn't waver, though a slight tilt of her head acknowledged the weight of his words. "You mean to say...?"
"I'll need you to give Rias a little push in her own path forward," Sirzechs continued. "This is a battle she must fight herself, but she'll need the right tools, the right support, and someone who understands both the Council's politics and her desires."
Grayfia's calm mask softened ever so slightly, a flicker of warmth breaking through. "As always, I will serve both you and Lady Rias to the best of my ability."
Sirzechs nodded, his smile more genuine this time. "Thank you, Grayfia. I know I can count on you."
He returned to his office, his mind racing. The High Council's involvement was troubling, and Rias's future hung precariously in the balance.
Sitting back at his desk, Sirzechs steepled his fingers and stared at the documents in front of him, but his thoughts were elsewhere. "I'm sorry Rias, but this is as much I can do. Hopefully things will turn out for the better." he muttered.
…
It was a new day in Kuoh, and while the warm sun streamed through the windows above, deep beneath the Han-Bin residence, the air was sterile and cool. The faint hum of machinery filled Leonardo's lab as she bustled about, monitoring screens and writing down data.
Kio stood in the center of the testing area, his shirt removed, exposing the faint scars that crisscrossed his pale skin. His face remained expressionless, even as Leonardo ran him through the latest round of physical, mental, and spiritual tests.
"Alright, Kio," Leonardo said, adjusting her goggles as she looked over the results on her monitor. "You've completed the entire sequence. Let's see what we've got."
Kio remained silent, his arms crossed as he waited. He wasn't one for small talk during these sessions, and Leonardo knew better than to push him.
After a few moments, Leonardo's cheerful hum faltered. Her expression grew serious as she leaned closer to the monitor, studying the data.
"Kio," she began, her voice unusually subdued. "There's... no change."
He raised an eyebrow, but his tone was calm. "No change?"
Leonardo nodded, her lips pressing into a thin line. "Your body hasn't shown any growth—not physically or spiritually. It's like you're stuck in the same state you were in when you first arrived back."
She turned to face him, concern etched on her features. "Do you feel any different? Anything at all?"
Kio shook his head, his voice flat as he responded. "No. My aura is still weak, my body feels restricted, and I still can't express my emotions properly." He paused, his gaze distant. "A.R.C hasn't responded to me since I returned, and the Guideline hasn't given me anything new."
Leonardo tilted her head. "Whatever caused you to be like this, is even beyond me and I'm a genius. …What has the Guideline shown you?"
Kio hesitated slightly as he answered, his tone colder. "One word. Over and over." His voice almost a whisper. "REVENGE."
Leonardo frowned, feeling uncertain of what to do next. She knew better than to press further, but the implications made her uneasy.
Kio turned away, heading toward the nearby table where his clothes were folded neatly. As he slipped back into his black shirt and pants, Leonardo watched him carefully.
Her gaze fell to his hands as he reached for his gloves. The black leather gloves were a familiar part of his attire, but as he pulled them on, her eyes lingered on his right hand.
"Kio," she said, breaking the silence. "Has the red mark on your hand been bothering you lately?"
Kio paused for a moment, flexing his fingers before sliding the glove into place. "It gets hot sometimes," he admitted, his voice even. "But it's nothing I can't handle."
Leonardo sighed, crossing her arms as she leaned against her desk. "You know, ignoring it won't make it go away."
"I'm not ignoring it," Kio replied calmly, his gaze steady. "I just don't know what to do with it."
Leonardo wanted to argue, but she knew it wouldn't get through to him. Instead, she sighs, letting the subject drop.
Together, they stepped into the elevator that led back to the main level of the house. As the metal doors slid shut, Leonardo glanced at Kio, her worry hidden behind her usual playful grin.
When the doors opened, the bright light of the main hall greeted them, along with the sight of Asia waiting near the door. She was dressed in her Kuoh Academy uniform, her bag slung over her shoulder and a bright smile on her face.
"Good morning, Kio, Leonardo!" she said cheerfully, her voice full of energy. "I'm heading to school now."
Kio nodded in acknowledgment, his expression unchanged. "Stay safe."
As Asia's cheerful goodbye faded behind the closing door, Leonardo let out a sigh, stretching her arms over her head. "Well, that's that," she said, moving toward the kitchen.
But when she reached the counter, her playful grin quickly shifted to a slight frown. "Oh dear," she muttered, holding up a neatly packed bento. "She forgot her lunch."
Leonardo turned to Kio, who was already halfway across the room, heading toward the staircase. "Kio!" she called, holding the box.
He stopped mid-way, turned to her direction.
"You've got time, right?" she asked, pushing the box toward him. "Be a good big brother and deliver this for her. Poor girl's probably too distracted to remember little things like this."
"Alright" he said, Leonardo gave him a teasing smile, ruffling his hair as he turned to leave. "Good boy. Make sure she eats it, okay?" Kio heads outside, catching up to Asia.
"Asia," Kio called out, his voice steady but loud enough to catch her attention.
She turned, her emerald eyes lighting up as she saw him. "Kio? What are you doing here?"
He held up the neatly packed bento box in his hand. "You forgot this."
Asia gasped and embarrass, "Oh no! Thank you so much for bringing it to me. I was so distracted this morning, I completely forgot!"
Kio handed her the box, nodding slightly. "You need to be more careful," he said, his tone more a statement than a reprimand.
"Thank you again," Asia said with a warm smile. As she adjusted her bag, she hesitated for a moment. "Um... would you like to walk with me to school? Issei isn't around this morning, and it's nice to have company."
Kio considered her request briefly before nodding. "Sure," he said simply.
The walk was quiet at first, with Asia humming softly to herself as they passed through the tree-lined streets. Kio kept his usual calm demeanor, his cane rhythmically hitting the ground with metal vibration.
As they approached the school, Asia suddenly slowed, her eyes catching a familiar figure up ahead. "Issei!" she called out, waving enthusiastically.
Issei was walking towards the gates, but something seemed... off. His posture was slightly slouched, and his eyes looked unfocused, as if he were lost in thought.
"Issei!" Asia called again, her voice carrying more concern this time.
Kio's shift to Issei, his expression unreadable. He took a step forward, his sharp sense of smell catching something faint but unmistakable.
Gremory.
The familiar scent of her perfume clung to Issei, but there was something else mixed in—a subtle hint of pheromones that lingered in the air. He continues observed Issei behavior, piecing together the signs.
Asia, oblivious to the subtleties, tried to get Issei's attention again. "Issei, are you okay?" she asked, her voice full of genuine concern.
Issei blinked, snapping out of his daze. "Huh? Oh, Asia!" he said, forcing a grin. "Sorry, I was just... distracted."
"Are you sure you're alright?" she pressed, tilting her head slightly.
"Yeah, yeah, I'm fine," he insisted, waving his hand dismissively. "I just stayed up late last night. Nothing to worry about."
Kio didn't say anything, but he lingered on Issei for a moment longer. There was no mistaking it—whatever had happened between Hyodou and Gremoy, is definitely something that is none of his business. Kio's thoughts remained focused, his instincts telling him that this was only the beginning of something much larger.
As Asia and Issei passed through the academy gates, their cheerful chatter fading into the background, Kio turned and starts his walk back home. A new sound broke catch his ears—a sharp click of heels approaching him from behind.
"Excuse me," a firm, polite voice called out.
Kio paused, tilting his head slightly. The approaching steps stopped just a few feet away.
"Are you Kagemaru Nanashi?" the voice continued.
Kio turned toward the speaker. "Who's asking?"
"I am Tsubaki Shinra, vice president of the student council," she replied. Her voice carried a mix of formality and curiosity. "The student council president wishes to meet with you."
Kio's brow furrowed slightly. "Why?"
"I'm not at liberty to discuss the details," Tsubaki said evenly. "But I assure you, the matter is of importance."
Kio let out a quiet sigh, clearly annoyed by the interruption. He wasn't fond of interruptions, especially ones that involves elite supernatural beings. Still, avoiding this now could lead to complications later, and he had no interest in creating unnecessary problems.
"Fine," he said after a moment, his tone neutral. "Lead the way."
Tsubaki walk up to him and stretch out he hand, "Please take my hand and I shall escort you there." After a slight pause, "Thank you for the offer, but I can just follow your footsteps."
Tsubaki nodded and turned, her footsteps echoing softly as she guided him back toward the academy. Kio followes her, his sharp senses tracking the shifts in her movements and the ambient sounds of the school grounds.
As they approached the main building, the usual buzz of student life surrounded them—laughter, hurried footsteps, the occasional burst of chatter. As well as mutters of the students seeing a kid walking though the higher grade main building with the student vice president. But Kio remained focused, drowning out the noise, keeping track of the vice president.
"Right this way," Tsubaki said, opening a big door that led into a quieter, grand room. As Kio and Tsubaki entered the student council room, the air immediately felt heavier. The room was orderly and elegant, centered around a single, polished decorative desk where the president sat. On either side of the room were two neat rows of desks, each occupied by a member of the student council.
Most of them were girls, dressed impeccably in their Kuoh Academy uniforms, but one boy stood out among them, his posture slightly slouched as he sat at his desk.
Tsubaki stepped forward, her voice clear and formal. "President, Kagemaru Nanashi has arrived."
The moment she spoke, all activity in the room ceased. Papers were set aside, conversations halted, and every pair of eyes turned to Kio.
From behind the central desk, the student council president rose gracefully to her feet. Her expression was composed, but a faint smirk played at the corners of her lips.
"Welcome, Kagemaru Nanashi," she said smoothly, her sharp, analytical eyes studying him. "I am Sona Shitori, the president of the student council. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Kio inclined his head slightly, his expression unreadable. "Hello, Miss Shitori," he said simply. "Now that we've exchanged greetings, can we get to the point? I assume you didn't call me here for pleasantries."
The room fell silent, tension crackling in the air like static.
The boy at one of the desks—Saji Genshirou—shot to his feet, his face contorted with irritation. "Hey, watch your tone! That's the president you're talking to!"
Before Kio could respond, Sona raised a hand, her voice calm but firm. "Saji, that's enough."
Saji hesitated, his jaw tightening, but he sat back down reluctantly.
Sona returned her gaze to Kio, her smirk fading into a more neutral expression. "You're as straightforward as I've heard," she said. "Very well. I'll get to the point." She folded her hands in front of her. "What is your purpose in Kuoh?"
Kio remained silent for a moment, weighing his words. Then, his voice steady, he answered. "A personal reason. Nothing more."
Sona arched an eyebrow. "Personal? That's rather vague, don't you think?"
"It's all you need to know," Kio said evenly.
The members of the council exchanged glances, their curiosity and unease evident. Saji his teeth, staring daggers at the boy.
Sona's expression didn't waver, but her tone took on a sharper edge. "You're an unusual guest in this town, Kagemaru. And while I have no intention of prying unnecessarily, I do have a responsibility to ensure the safety and stability of Kuoh City."
Kio, feeling the demonic energy she pours out, stay composed. "I'm not a threat to your stability—or anything else for that matter," he said. His tone shifted, carrying a subtle weight. "Just don't want anyone prying into my affairs."
"All I ask is that we keep to ourselves," he said. "We do not interfere with each other's lives, Miss future head of the Sitri clan." The room fell silent, the weight of his words hanging in the air.
Sona's eyes narrowed slightly, and a faint smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. "You are a remarkable individual," she said, leaning back in her chair. "Not only did you faced a newly emerged eight-wing fallen angel head-on, doing such extensive research, and to be one of the strongest humans without a sacred gear. I'm impressed!"
"I have a very reliable source, and extraordinary teachers. Now, if you don't mind, I'll be leaving. I have more important than talking with you all. Have a good day." Kio heads to the door to leave.
The room was tense, the air thick with unspoken challenges. The council members exchanged glances, unease flickering across their faces like shadows.
Saji Genshirou, unable to hold back any longer, shot to his feet, his chair scraping loudly against the polished floor. His face twisted with anger, and his voice rose in fury.
"You bastard!" he shouted, his fists clenched. "Who the hell do you think you are? I've had enough of your attitude toward the president!"
Before anyone could stop him, Saji stormed over to Kio and grabbed him by the scruff of his black shirt. Despite Kio's small frame, Saji's grip was tight, lifting him effortlessly off the ground.
"I don't care if you're a kid," Saji growled, his eyes blazing with anger. "I'll teach you what happens to anyone who disrespects the president!"
With his free hand, Saji clenched his fist, winding up for a strike.
"Saji, stop!" Sona commanded sharply, her voice cutting through the tension.
But before Saji could even register her words, Kio's hand tightened around the cane he carried.
In an instances, Saji's head rolled on the floor. The blow was quick, and the room seemed to freeze as an image flickered into everyone's minds—Saji's head separating cleanly from his body, blood spraying in an arc as his lifeless form collapsed to the floor.
The vision was so vivid, so real, that the council members gasped audibly, their expressions filled with horror.
But a moment later, things were normal.
Saji was sitting on the ground, his hands clutching at his neck, his face pale and drenched in sweat. He gasped for air, his fingers frantically feeling for a head that was still attached.
Kio stood over him, his cane resting lightly in his hand. Calmly, he reached out and bonked Saji on the top of his head—not hard, but enough to make a point.
"You're weak," Kio said, his voice steady and quiet but carrying an undeniable weight. "You underestimate your opponent. You don't think before you act. Like this, you won't be able to protect anyone—not yourself, not your president, not anyone."
Saji looked up at him, his eyes wide with fear and disbelief.
Kio adjusted his gloves. Without another word, he turned and began walking toward the door.
The silence in the room was deafening as the council members stared after him, unsure of what had just happened—or how to react.
As the door clicked shut behind him, the tension finally broke. Several members let out sighs of relief, the weight of the encounter lifting slightly.
Sona sat back in her chair, her usually composed demeanor slipping for a moment as she slumped slightly. She closed her eyes and let out a quiet sigh. "That boy is …" she murmured.
Tsubaki, standing by her side, gave a small nod. "He's certainly... different."
Saji remained on the floor, still clutching at his neck, muttering under his breath, "What was that...? How did he do that...?"
"Let it be a lesson," Sona said, her voice regaining its calm edge. "Nanashi isn't someone to provoke lightly. Next time, think before you act, Saji."
"Yes, President," Saji muttered, still shaken.
The room slowly returned to normal, though the encounter left an impression that none of them would soon forget.
Walking through the bustling Kuoh Academy campus, Kio kept his pace steady, his senses sharp as always. Despite the faint hum of chatter and footsteps around him, his thoughts were preoccupied, looping back to what had happened in the student council room.
"Did I take it too far?" he thought, his brows furrowing slightly. The killing intent had been effective—too effective, perhaps. He hadn't intended to terrify the boy to that degree, but his lack of patience had gotten the better of him.
Letting out a soft sigh, Kio decided to put the matter aside for now. Dwelling on it wouldn't changethe past. Instead, he focused on observing the environment around him, curious about the daily life of students at Kuoh Academy.
His cane hitting a bench and a large tree, not far from the ORC building, Kio felt his way and sat down. The cool shade provided a welcome reprieve from the sun, and the faint rustling of leaves added a soothing ambiance.
Kio pulled out a small satchel round his neck. Setting it on his lap, he unzipped it and reached inside, his hand rummaging around in its seemingly endless depths.
Pulling something out, he found himself holding the hilt of a sword. Frowning, he shoved it back into the satchel and tried again. "Well that wasn't it," he muttered under his breath
This time, he pulled out something far more alarming: a .44 Magnum.
"Whoops!!!" quickly shoved the gun back into the satchel, ensuring that no one around. "Third time's the charm," he muttered to himself, reaching in once more.
Finally, his hand closed around what he'd been searching for—a red book. Pulling it out, he flipped it open, his fingers moving deftly across the pages, feeling the raised dots of Braille. A faint, content smile crossed his lips as he began to read, letting the world around him fade into the background.
"Hey, you there!" a sharp, feminine voice called out, cutting through the quiet.
Kio tilted his head slightly, his fingers pausing on the page.
The voice came closer, accompanied by the soft sound of footsteps. "I'm talking to you," the voice continued, its tone carrying a mix of confidence and irritation.
Kio turned his head toward the source of the voice. He could sense her presence—poised, fiery, and distinctly noble.
Standing before him was a young girl with long, flowing blonde hair tied into elegant twin tails. Her piercing blue eyes seemed to almost glow, and her sharp, aristocratic features were framed by the delicate lace and ribbons of her red dress. Everything about her screamed pride and elegance, but there was a trace of youthful stubbornness in her expression.
"Why is someone from the Phenex clan doing here?" Kio thought, recognizing her energy.
The girl crossed her arms, her gaze fixed on him with a mix of curiosity and haughtiness. "Where did you conjure that from? Are you a mage?" she asked.
Kio kept his expression neutral, turning a page with steady fingers. "It's just a book," he replied calmly, hoping to divert her attention.
But Ravel wasn't convinced. She narrowed her eyes and stepped closer, her twin tails bouncing slightly with her movement. "Just a book? That's hardly an answer. I demand to know where it came from!"
Kio sighed softly, realizing she wouldn't let it go. Setting the book down on his lap, he reached for the small satchel beside him, sarcastically shaking it.
Her eyes widened, a mix of confusion and embarrassment crossing her face.
Kio gave her a faint, knowing smile but said nothing,
Without addressing her reaction, Kio opened the book again, his fingers moving across the pages.
Her curiosity only grew as she watched him. "What kind of book is that?" she asked, stepping closer once more.
Kio didn't look up. "An important one," he said simply.
Ravel frowned at his vague response but leaned in slightly, trying to sneak a glance at the pages. Her brow furrowed when she saw rows of raised dots covering the surface.
"What... what is that?" she asked, her voice tinged with genuine confusion. "It's nothing but dots. How can you read that?"
Kio paused, lifting his head slightly in her direction. "It's Braille," he explained, his tone even. "A system of raised dots that allows people like me, who can't see, to read with their fingers."
Ravel blinked, caught off guard. "You're blind?" she asked, the realization dawning on her.
"Yes," Kio said matter-of-factly, returning to his reading.
Ravel tilted her head, her aristocratic pride momentarily giving way to genuine interest. "I've never heard of this... Braille," she admitted. "Is it common?"
Kio shook his head slightly. "Not particularly. But it's useful for those who need it."
For a moment, Ravel said nothing, her expression thoughtful. Then, with a dramatic flourish, she straightened her posture and placed her hands on her hips.
"I am Ravel Phenex," she declared, her tone haughty once again. "And I command you to teach me this... Braille!"
Kio raised an eyebrow, his expression remaining neutral. "You command me?"
"Yes," she said, crossing her arms with a confident smirk. "It's not every day I come across something I don't know, and as a noble of the Phenex family, it's only right that I expand my knowledge. So, you shall have the honor of teach me."
Kio let out a soft sigh, his fingers brushing over the page before closing the book. "I don't have time to teach you."
Ravel's smirk faltered slightly, but she quickly regained her composure. "Nonsense! I'll make time—and so will you!"
Kio considered her for a moment, shrugged. "If you're that interested, I suppose I can show you the basics.
After a while of learning the basics of braille, Ravel leaned back with a satisfied smile. Though her fingers fumbled occasionally, her quick grasp of the basics spoke to her sharp intellect.
Kio gave a small nod, "You picked it up very fast," he said, his tone neutral.
Ravel puffed her chest slightly at the praise, though she tried to appear indifferent. "Well, of course. I am a Phenex, after all."
Her eyes flicked to the book in his hands, curiosity gleaming in her gaze. "What's the story about, anyway?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.
Kio ran a finger over the cover, a faint smile tugging at the edge of his lips. "It's about the life of a warrior named Barolt," he explained. "A Valterian warrior who rose from harsh beginnings and became a hero by FATE. It chronicles his battles, his struggles, and his eventual fall."
Ravel's interest visibly piqued, and her composed expression slipped. "That sounds fascinating!" she blurted out, leaning closer. "You must read it to me!"
As soon as the words left her mouth, Ravel froze, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. Realizing she'd just lost her noble composure, she quickly straightened, crossing her arms and clearing her throat. "I-I mean, by my command, you shall read it to me." she added, her tone regaining its usual haughtiness.
Kio raised an eyebrow, his blank gaze directed toward her. "That's not the proper way to ask for a favor," he said calmly. "And I should warn you—it's a very long story."
Ravel's face turned an even deeper shade of red, her pride clashing with her desire to hear the tale. She fidgeted for a moment, then sighed, clearly trying to compose herself. "Fine," she said, her voice quieter now. "Would you... please read it to me?"
Kio nodded slightly, "Very well," he said, running his fingers across the page as he began.
"The tale begins with Barolt, a young Valterian warrior, untested and unproven in the harsh barren lands, fighting to survive..."
As Kio read, his steady voice carried the weight of the story, pulling Ravel into the world of the warrior's journey. She listened intently, her usual aristocratic demeanor giving way to genuine fascination. Though she tried to maintain her composure, the occasional glint of wonder in her eyes betrayed just how captivated she was.
Kio's steady voice carried on, weaving the tale of Barolt as the seasoned warrior faced one of his easiest quest—a demon shark twice the size of a megalodon, its jagged teeth gleaming like obsidian blades.
"With nothing but an anchor in hand, Barolt leapt into the jaws of the beast," Kio read, his fingers gliding over the page. "With one swing, he—"
Kio paused, sensing a shift. A faint weight pressed against his shoulder. Tilting his head slightly, he realized Ravel had fallen asleep beside him.
Her breathing was soft and steady, and a content smile graced her face, her usually proud demeanor replaced by an almost childlike innocence.
Kio sighed quietly, closing the book and resting it on his lap. The gentle breeze rustled the leaves above, and for a brief moment, he felt a rare sense of ease.
But the tranquility didn't last.
In an instant, Kio's sharp senses screamed danger. Without hesitation, he grabbed the sleeping Ravel, cradling her protectively as he dashed away from the bench with lightning speed.
The sound of splintering wood filled the air as the bench was obliterated, shards flying in all directions. Kio landed a safe distance away, setting Ravel down gently as she stirred awake, confused and disoriented.
His book and cane, however, had been left behind, lying amidst the wreckage of the bench.
Standing where the bench once was, surrounded by the remains of splintered wood, was a man.
He was tall, with golden-blonde hair that shone like a crown in the sunlight. His fiery red suit was immaculate, exuding wealth and arrogance. His piercing blue eyes burned with fury as they locked onto Kio.
"What the hell do you think you're doing with my little sister?" he growled, his voice dripping with rage.
Kio straightened, his calm demeanor unshaken despite the sheer intensity of man's presence.
Ravel, now fully awake, blinked in confusion before realization dawned on her. "Dear Brother Riser?!" she exclaimed, her face flushing with embarrassment as she hurried to stand.
His gaze flicked briefly to Ravel, his expression softening for only a moment before turning back to Kio, his anger reigniting.
"I asked you a question, mongrel," his voice low and threatening.
"Did this motherfucker called me a mongrel? Who the hell does he thinking he is, a dollar store knock-off King of Heroes?" Kio thinks to himself, getting more irritated.
The tension in the air was palpable as Kio and Riser stood facing each other, the weight of unspoken challenges hanging between them. Neither backed down, their mutual irritation simmering beneath the surface.
The man's fiery arrogance burning bright, repeated his question with a sharper edge. "I'll ask you one last time. What were you doing with my sister?"
Kio's expression remained calm, but a flicker of annoyance crossed his face. "None of your business."
He took a step forward, his polished shoe hitting something on the ground. Looking down, he noticed the small red book Kio had been reading earlier, lying amidst the splintered remains of the bench.
"What's this?" he asked, bending down to pick it up.
Ravel's eyes widened in alarm. "Brother, be careful with that!" she said, her voice laced with genuine concern.
"Quiet, Ravel," Riser snapped, glaring at her briefly before turning his attention back to the book.
Kio's fingers twitched at his sides, his anger stirring as he watched Riser flip through the pages.
As Riser looked at the braille, a sneer formed on his lips. "What is this gibberish?" he said mockingly, turning the book over in his hands. "How could anyone read such nonsense?"
"Get your filthy has of that book," Kio said, his voice low and calm, though an unmistakable edge of anger underlined his words.
Looking up, his sneer deepening. "Did a peasant lowborn like you just order me around?" he asked, his voice dripping with contempt.
Fire began to flicker in his free hand, flames dancing dangerously close to his fingers. "You'll learn the consequences of disrespecting a higher being like me." Extending his fiery hand toward the book
Kio has a runestone (Isaz) locked on to him, a cold mist emits from his hand.
But before the man could touch it, another hand intercepted.
Everything seemed to chill instantly as Grayfia appeared out of nowhere, her grip firm on Riser's wrist. Her silver eyes were cold, cutting through the tension like a blade.
"That is enough, Lord Riser," she said, her voice calm but laced with authority. "Your business here is finished. It would be wise to leave now before causing further trouble for yourself and your family."
Riser froze, his fire snuffed out as Grayfia's icy presence overwhelmed him. "Grayfia..." he muttered, his arrogance faltering under her piercing gaze. Grayfia didn't wait for a response. With a deft motion, she took the book from Riser's hand, handling it with care.
"Ravel," Riser called, his tone quieter now but still laced with frustration. "We're leaving."
Ravel hesitated, glancing between Kio and her brother, her usual confidence shaken. "Umm~ Ah~ Thank you for---"
"Now!" Riser interrupted sharply, his tone brooking no argument.
With a reluctant nod, Ravel stepped toward him.
In a flash of light, the two Phenex siblings disappeared, leaving behind only the faint smell of smoke.
Grayfia stood still, the red book in her hands, her usually stoic expression giving way to a flicker of shock. Her silver eyes widened slightly as she stared at the red and gold cover. Taking a handkerchief from her skirt and proceeds to clean it.
Kio dispelled the ice rune, walked up to the maid and tugged lightly on the hem of her skirt. "Excuse me, miss. Can I have my book back?" he said evenly, his tone calm but firm.
Her gaze shifted slowly from the book to Kio. For a moment, she simply looked at the child, she placed a hand over her mouth as if she was holding back.
Finally, breaking out of her thoughts. Her composure returned in an instant, her face once again a mask of cold elegance.
"Of course," she said smoothly, she kneels to the ground, taking him by the hand and placing the book on it. "You should always protect what is important to you, never forget that young man."
"I plan on it" Kio said confidently. Grayfia smile "I know" She gets up and starts walking away, "Till we meet again" As Grayfia's presence faded into the distance, the atmosphere around Kio seemed to settle.
A gentle breeze returned, and the faint chatter of students in the distance brought a sense of normalcy back to the campus. Adjusting his satchel, Kio sighed softly, his thoughts lingering on the silver-haired maid.
"That woman…" he muttered to himself, "She's impressive. Her strength may be on par with the Heroic Spirits from the Throne."
"Asia should be with Hyoudou and the others," he thought, his unease shifting toward worry. Trusting his instincts, Kio extended his senses, locking onto the faint trace of devil energy. It was concentrated around an old building on the school grounds.
Kio moved swiftly, his steps quiet as he made his way through the campus grounds. Upon reaching the building, he climbed the worn stairs to the second floor.
As he entered the Occult Research Club room, the first thing he heard was Issei's groaning voice.
"Ow, ow, ow! it hurts!"
"I'm sorry, Issei," Asia said in her gentle, apologetic tone. "I'm trying to be as gentle as I can. Please hold still!"
Kio tilted his head slightly, sensing the warm glow of Asia's healing magic filling the room. Issei was seated on one of the couches, his shirt torn down the middle. Asia knelt beside him, her hands glowing with the soothing light of her Sacred Gear.
The atmosphere in the Occult Research Clubroom was thick with tension, each member lost in their own thoughts.
Rias reclined in her chair, her crimson hair cascading over the backrest as she stared blankly at the ceiling. Yuuto stood by the window, gazing out at the campus with a faraway look in his eyes. Koneko sat cross-legged on a couch, munching on a bag of snacks, her expression as impassive as ever. Akeno, ever graceful, moved quietly around the room, cleaning up a tea set with practiced ease.
Kio, standing by the doorway, sensed the heaviness in the air. It wasn't just from Issei's injuries or Asia's concerned glances—it was something deeper, unspoken. Deciding to break the silence, he cleared his throat.
"What happened here?" Kio asked, his calm voice cutting through the stillness.
The sudden sound startled everyone. Rias sat up slightly, her gaze shifting toward Kio, back toward the ceiling. Yuuto turned from the window, curiosity flickering in his usually composed expression. Even Koneko paused mid-bite, her golden eyes glancing toward him.
It was Akeno who spoke first, her voice carrying its usual gentle tone. "Oh, just a little incident," she said, offering a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes.
Kio tilted his head slightly, his neutral expression unchanging. "Would this incident happen to involve Phenex Riser?"
The room fell silent again, the tension growing palpable. Rias straightened in her chair, her eyes widening in surprise.
"How do you know about that?" she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and caution.
Kio adjusted the strap of his satchel, his tone calm as he replied, "I had the misfortune of meeting him not too long ago. Let's just say it wasn't a pleasant experience."
Akeno chuckled softly, though there was an edge to her amusement. "That does sound like Riser," she said.
Kio focuses on Asia, who was still focused on healing Issei. "I just wanted to make sure nothing serious happened," he said. "It seems like everything is under control for now."
He turned toward the door, his movements precise and deliberate. "I'll head out, then. I'll meet you at home, Asia."
As he stepped out of the room, Rias abruptly rose from her chair, her voice firm but tinged with urgency. "Wait, Nanashi!"
Kio stopped in the doorway, turning his head slightly toward her. "What is it?"
Rias hesitated for a moment, her crimson eyes locking onto his. "I... No, we need your help," she said, her voice steady but carrying a hint of vulnerability.
Kio pauses, uncertain if he'll make the right decision. "Sigh, I'll listen.
Chapter End