AN: Holy shit this chapter kicked my ass. From Ibaraki's arrival at the venue to the arrival of the Devils was just not happening. Sorry if the writing isn't super tight but I need to post this or else it'll be another long span of me slamming my head into the keys. I still really like how this turned out but there are probably points where it could be a lot better. I skipped the time in between the last chapter and the negotiations because it was starting to drag and I was worried how long it would take to get there. In other news, Levia-tan is here! Also mentions of other important people, yay! I hope you all enjoy, and I'm going to go pass out because it is 4 am.
Chapter Text
"Is this really necessary?" I grumble as a servant applies my makeup skillfully and silently while another fixes my hair.
Susanoo lounges across from me with alcohol and food spread out in front of him.
Tipping the brim of his hat upwards, he shows his face, "You asked me to participate in these negotiations. You couldn't have expected to be present alongside me without looking your best."
I narrow my eyes briefly, only to smooth out my expression when the servant doing my makeup gives me a chastising glance. After my expression becomes neutral again he starts applying a bright red eye shadow.
"This is your first step on an international stage, though private. Your image reflects upon mine and your strength isn't enough for frivolity." He sighs as though he's the one struggling here.
"Yet you're going to stroll into the meeting in the same outfit as always?" I ask incredulously.
"I've already earned my reputation. When you're as powerful and beloved as I am, you may act as you wish." Susanoo flashes a smug smile, "Besides, you clean up well."
Between the layered kimonos - a white outer layer with various complimentary layers of red beneath - and traditional makeup, the look is somewhere between heian-era nobility, and a cosplay of a Shinto goddess.
It's a far more involved look than I would choose for myself and attempting to fight in it would destroy the outfit instantly. But as a formal outfit, I like it a lot.
I can even understand the narrative Susanoo is going for with the outfit; an implicit statement that I've been civilized as a result of interacting with him and the West Yokai faction. I resent the implication but it does lend validity to any statements I would make.
It's not like I'm going to let Susanoo know that though. That would be too much like letting him win.
I clear my throat and tilt my chin up imperiously, "Naturally. I always look good."
"Let's go over what will happen at the negotiation." Susanoo says ignoring my statement, "I will be acting as a 'neutral' arbiter there and ensuring the negotiations go smoothly."
He reads my thoughts on that despite my expression not changing and laughs, "Since the circumstances are clear cut, this little fiction is paper-thin, but it is how such discussions are normally done. Everyone involved knows who is in the wrong, except perhaps the criminal herself."
"What you need to do is simply present your memories of the events and the files from your organization. The negotiations will be between Yasaka along with the Shinra clan's patriarch and Marquis Shax with the Foreign Affairs department. You and your friends are mostly there to relate your story of the events and learn how these meetings go." I frown at that, wondering how I got relegated to this secondary role.
"I was the one who dealt with the devils and stopped a conflict from erupting with the Shinra clan. Why am I not negotiating directly anymore?" Susanoo scoffs at my question.
"You were the one who asked Yasaka and I to get involved. By your admission, you weren't ready to deal with this yourself, or you would have done so." I flush in indignation and make to retort only to be interrupted.
"What reparations would you even seek, Ibaraki? Be realistic." He sighs looking bored.
"I'm sure I would've come up with something," I mutter, frustrated.
"You would've used any leverage to either spar with Marquis Shax, or more likely, throw everything away for a two-second bout against Serafall where you ended up as an ice cube." He narrows his eyes in challenge and this time I flush in embarrassment.
"I could last longer than two seconds!" I growl, much to the displeasure of the servants.
Susanoo rolls his eyes, "That's the issue is it? Either way, by involving us you recognized this was beyond you. Yasaka is competent and will handle this while I ensure the devils don't push back."
I huff but stop arguing. He is right that if I wanted to do this by myself I would have.
His eyes go cloudy and he laughs suddenly, raising a cup of sake in salute, "Ha, what stunning intensity. Well fought, young hero."
"Are you seriously watching something else right now?" I ask incredulously.
His eyes clear up and he smirks at me, "I have duties and people I need to watch over. It's arrogant to think you have my sole attention."
"It sounds like you're enjoying whatever you're watching too much for a 'duty'," I snark back.
"Fine, if you're going to be like that, I won't tell you what happened." He shrugs with the same smirk still on his face, "I'm sure you'll find out eventually."
The servant doing my makeup finally finishes my eyes and I take the opportunity to glare at Susanoo.
"Your loss," He says nonchalantly, eyes twinkling mischievously.
He stands up and stretches, "It's about time we leave anyway. As entertaining as it might be, we shouldn't make everyone wait."
I barely have time to process that before we disappear from my living room and reappear facing a conference table.
My pulse spikes before I suppress that gut reaction. Besides Susanoo and me, Yasaka is the only one present at the moment. I still throw him a glare over my shoulder as I head over to Yasaka's end of the table.
I take a seat beside her and smile, "Good to see you, Yasaka."
She gives me a gentle smile back and nods, "You made it at a good time, the others will arrive shortly. I apologize that you had to suffer Lord Susanoo's antics in the meantime, though you look good."
"Thank you," I respond, taking in her outfit.
She isn't in her court regalia like she wore when we first met. Rather she's wearing a simple yellow kimono, much the same as what she wore when kidnapped by the Hero Faction. The only real difference is the lack of the skull-covered black overcoat. Maybe she hasn't bought that yet?
"You look good as well," I say back, "I like your hair ornaments."
"They were a gift but I can ask where they're from if you'd like?" She says, looking excited but we're interrupted by Susanoo clearing his throat.
"As interesting as this conversation is, you should probably clue my minion in on what is happening before the other parties arrive," Susanoo says with a yawn, belying his interest.
"I'll look into it and get back to you later," She whispers slyly to me, "As for the negotiations, we're going to mainly impose stricter rules upon devils holding territory in our country and add some oversight. Other than that, we're trying to put through a prisoner exchange of sorts. My Lady wishes to correct an injustice with the exchange."
I frown and think that over, "Oversight would be good. I can't see them arguing either with how Yura-Ann's free reign turned out."
"They won't be happy either," Yasaka warns, "There are cities that the devils previously held as basically sovereign territories. Oversight on those cities will be distasteful after decades of complete control. This is a good opportunity."
I'm about to ask about the specifics of the prisoner exchange when the representatives of the Principal Clans arrive.
Suzaku, Byakko, and Seiryuu all enter the doors together; each wearing formal clothing.
Byakko is dressed in a simple all-black suit. A more modern outfit lacking any flair or accessories but still appropriate for the occasion.
Seiryuu's outfit is similar but with more variation in color. He wore a blue suit jacket with a gold lining, matching dress pants, a solid blue tie, and a white dress shirt.
But honestly, I barely pay attention to them, being far more focused on Suzaku.
I blush as I take in her outfit, something different than what I would've expected from her. It seems she decided to coordinate her outfit with Byakko and Seiryuu to show solidarity today.
She's wearing a red blazer with matching red dress pants, combined with a white blouse. The look is brought together by tying her hair into a tight ponytail and clean professional makeup.
The resulting outfit is dashing and the contrast to what I normally see her wear leaves a big impression.
Suzaku notices me and gives me a small wave. She looks flustered and it takes me a second to realize she's just as pleased with my outfit as I am with hers.
Her reaction gives me confidence that I can wear something more stereotypically feminine on our next date… Provided she isn't too mad when I talk to her after this.
I spent the time waiting for this meeting with my regular activities like training Tobio, spending time with my family, dealing with the Golden Dragons, and the new addition of working out with Byakko.
Suzaku was too busy with running the Himejima clan and the new burden of preparing for this negotiation with the others. It sucked that we didn't have time to see each other but we texted and called as usual.
I can't put having a serious talk with her off any longer though. Not when we're both meeting in person today. If I chickened out now then I would just keep making excuses forever.
At the very least I'm going to follow Yasaka's advice and let Suzaku know I'm hiding something important from her but will tell her the truth eventually. Not knowing how she'll react scares me, however, I know she deserves to know the truth, even if this is a small taste of it.
My attention is drawn from Suzaku by the aura that follows their group; The aura of a dangerous beast, an ancient hunter, the white tiger.
The elderly man, who must be the Shinra clan's family head, looks almost normal. His grey hair and wrinkly skin tell of his age but the look in his eyes remains razor sharp.
Well, his right eye anyway. The left side of his face is covered in a vicious scar, leaving his left eye unfocused from the damage.
He's wearing a comfortable-looking pair of black slacks, a long-sleeved white turtle neck, and martial arts slippers. Honestly, without the imposing aura he emits and how heavily built he is, I'd assume he was heading to do tai chi in the park.
Only when Yasaka squeezes my shoulder do I realize I'm moving to stand and my grip on my Touki has loosened to the point wisps of Touki are manifesting.
"Now is not the time, Ibaraki." Yasaka chastises me gently and I sheepishly sit back down.
Now might not be the time to try and fight this guy but I have been hanging around Byakko a lot recently… I'm sure he wouldn't mind introducing me to his family head.
Being able to experience the culmination of the Shinra family's techniques, brought forth by a life of practice and dedicated training should be fun. I want to witness the end point of their art.
The Shinra clan's patriarch nods at Yasaka then turns to Susanoo and gives him a shallow bow.
"Greetings, Lord Susanoo, we appreciate your presence today." Susanoo smiles at the greeting and tips his hat in recognition.
"You've gotten old if that's the lowest you can bow, Takao. Has it been a decade since we last met?" Asking that Susanoo strokes his beard in contemplation to which the Shinra family head barks a laugh.
"Only five years, though it feels like ten. You're not normally one to involve yourself like this," There's an implicit question in the statement which Susanoo surprisingly answers.
"I've been thinking of getting more involved in the world again," He shrugs, "I'm not the only one either."
Yasaka's comment about her lady's wishes -which can only refer to Amaterasu- comes to mind.
The Shinra family head silently digests that as he sits down with his group.
He lets out a long sigh and mutters lowly, "I travel across the country to Tokyo and make nice with the Yokai there, then I hear about a kid from my family being murdered, and now the gods are becoming active again. I would've liked my last years to be quiet rather than this."
"Marquis Shax will arrive shortly along with Serafall. You will be able to conduct this business despite any grudges you might bear, correct?" Susanoo states more than asks and watches both Byakko and the Shinra Family Head.
He mostly ignores Suzaku and Sieryuu, likely because their involvement isn't due to a personal grudge.
The Shinra patriarch rubs his chin and I catch Byakko's expression darkening, "Naturally, we wouldn't have agreed otherwise. If negotiations break down, however…"
Yasaka sighs at the ominous statement and shakes her head, "There's no scenario in which Satan Leviathan or Lord Susanoo would allow that to happen. That threat was unnecessary."
"We will explain to the Marquis the conditions for his daughter's release, and he will agree to those conditions. Then we will discuss our displeasure with this incident with Satan Leviathan and how that displeasure will be remedied. That is all." Yasaka continues having a staredown with the Shinra Family Head.
"I hope that's how this turns out." He responds with a bored look, "Forgive me if I'm not as trusting of devils."
At that moment, Serafall and Marquis Shax make their entrance and despite the impression of Serafall's character that I had coming into this, she still manages to surprise me.
Ignoring the somewhat serious mood of this meeting, the doors to the conference room open, and from outside a shower of colorful stars bursts in. Serafall appears in the middle of the spectacle dressed in her magical girl regalia. Upon entrance, she strikes a pose that I'm ashamed I recognize from her show and scans the room.
Upon seeing Susanoo she walks over to him and greets him, "Su-chan, it's good to see you again ~✩!"
The tonal shift in the room is jarring but my jaw drops when Susanoo smiles back, "Serafall, thank you for coming."
She pouts at him, "I've told you before, it's Levia-tan, Le-vi-a-tan!"
Susanoo chuckles and I glance at Yasaka wondering what the hell is happening. Yasaka just gives me an awkward smile and shrugs.
"Maybe if you keep asking, one day you'll convince me. Though perhaps we should continue to business?" Susanoo sends a sharp, unfriendly smile towards the other new entrance to the conference room.
Marquis Shax is nothing like I would have expected based on the impressions his daughter had given.
Where she was arrogant without the power to back it up, Marquis Shax has a humble presence despite the immense Demonic Power I can sense. Yura-Ann was content to assert herself in our meeting, trying to prove her superiority. Marquis Shax on the other hand took the opportunity provided by Serafall's chaotic entrance to gauge the room without announcing himself.
Lastly, unlike the delicacy of his daughter, Marquis Shax looks like a warrior despite being dressed in a tailored grey vest, and grey dress pants, with a white dress shirt underneath. His defined muscles are what give that impression and are visible because the sleeves on his shirt are rolled up to his elbows and his dress shirt is unbuttoned at the top.
All in all, he's far more interesting than his daughter was.
Rather than heading towards Susanoo, he circles to where Yasaka and I are sitting.
"Yasaka," He nods in greeting as he passes, which Yasaka reciprocates.
"Lord Shax," She responds, though her tone isn't exactly warm nor does she smile.
I assume they've met before and respect each other at least.
He sits down across from the delegation from the Principal Clans, to the right of Yasaka and me, and to the left of Susanoo. Susanoo as the moderator is by himself but based on how everyone has acted so far, I doubt anyone is under the illusion he's neutral.
Susanoo looks immensely pleased as he looks around the room and clears his throat, "Once again, I'd like to thank you all for coming. This matter is a sensitive one and I appreciate all the parties involved treating this matter with respect and urgency."
He turns towards Serafall, "We have enjoyed a friendship with the Devil Faction for a long time and it would sadden us greatly to have that friendship fall apart due to this."
Even lacking political training as I am, I recognize the implied threat.
Serafall does too based on the small tremor in her smile, "You can be assured that this matter will be resolved amicably, Su-chan. As a member of the Four Great Satans, and the head of the Foreign Affairs Office, we also cherish our friendship with the Shinto Faction."
Marquis Shax doesn't even bat an eye at Serafall's proclamation so I assume he either expected that stance or was informed beforehand.
Susanoo glances at Marquis Shax and continues, "Kyoto, the old capital of our nation, is a place dear to us. Of course, we wish to share this treasured place with others, to show them our history and culture. The Principal Clans and the Yokai that call this city home are also parts of our history and culture."
He breathes out a long sigh and looks regretful, "That is why the crimes committed by your daughter are especially grave."
Marquis Shax in an impressive display of composure is still unphased, "I am also saddened that the sanctity of your city has been violated and your people harmed, yet despite all this talk about crimes committed by my daughter, I have not been provided evidence of such."
He frowns, showing the most emotion he has so far, "I came here today because I understand how troubling this all is. However, I hope you don't expect me to accept the condemnation of my daughter from your account alone?"
On my left, a faint growl rumbles out from Byakko, whose expression has darkened considerably as Marquis Shax spoke. Yet when his Family Head glances at him, Byakko quiets down immediately.
Susanoo glances at Yasaka and she nods slightly before speaking up, "Naturally we would never make such an accusation without preparing evidence. We have first-hand accounts of your daughter's various crimes, as well as reports and transactions made from your daughter's criminal organization."
Yasaka snaps her fingers and illusionary screens appear in front of everyone. On the screens are the records I remember handing to Suzaku earlier, containing the information collected by the Black Feather Brigade, as well as the internal records of the Golden Dragons describing their conflicts and business alike with the Hell King Legion. It's a massive collection of crimes but considering they accounted for roughly a third of the crime in Kyoto, it isn't surprising how large the list is.
Marquis Shax scrolls through the list, taking in all the information intently. As he reaches the end he doesn't even look faintly displeased, the lack of expression is almost creepy. "While most of these crimes are not something worth calling me here for, I'm starting to see that my daughter has mismanaged her territory and made a mockery of her time here. What I fail to see is how this matter concerns anyone but my daughter and me. I will ensure that she is punished for her time here and it will be a long time if ever before she is allowed to leave Shax family lands unless there are objections."
"Shax-chan, I think that you scanned over that information a bit fast," Serafall says slowly, and her voice is a bit less upbeat than before. "If I understand correctly, it's the murder of a member of the Shinra family that is the biggest concern here. I would also like to hear about the trafficking allegations referenced."
"Byakko, present your recollection of the events surrounding your cousin's death." The Shinra Patriarch commands him.
Letting out a shaky breath to calm himself, Byakko begins to describe the events of the day. I find myself tuning out since I was there for most of what he's describing. Instead, I look around the room and watch the reactions of the others.
The Shinra Patriarch, 'Takao' as Susanoo called him, seems almost bored by all this. I would find that attitude offensive, especially considering how this was one of his family members who died if I couldn't sense his emotions.
Beneath his mask of apathy, is a boiling rage struggling to break free of his control, and further beneath that a core of sadness seeps into his very bones. If I had to describe his emotions as a whole, I'd call him tired; an old man who has lost many people through his life, struggling to keep it together as he approaches the end of his own life.
I'm startled out of my inspection when he turns to me a sends me a sharp glare before focusing back on the meeting. Warning received, old man.
Next, Suzaku feels a thick rolling sadness for Byakko. She also knows what it feels like to lose family and probably feels as though having to describe the day theatrically like this is just rehashing trauma. Suzaku is empathetic like that and it warms my heart that she feels so much concern for her friend.
Seiryuu's aura is a shallow type of anger. It isn't the boiling rage that both Byakko and the Shinra Patriarch are experiencing, nor is it the sadness of anyone else. The degree of separation he has from the situation is greater than them though and he doesn't seem the empathetic type either.
To be fair though, my emotions regarding the situation are just as shallow. I can feel angry about this or sad because I can imagine how I would feel in Byakko's shoes. While closer now after spending more time with him, I'm not close enough to feel any large measure of sympathy either.
I don't bother checking Susanoo because I know he doesn't care either, and I also avoid Serafall because I don't know her well enough to pry. With the Shinra Patriarch noticing my gaze earlier, Serafall would notice as well.
Instead, I focus on Marquis Shax and am shocked once more. Normally, even with an iron grip on your emotions, I would still be able to see what you're feeling in your aura, like with Takao Shinra.
Marquis Shax, however, shows nothing at all.
It's like his ability to feel emotion has been completely severed from him, replaced by pure logic.
Annoyed and not quite believing what I'm seeing, I focus harder. A physical shock hits me this time, directly in between my eyes and I recoil.
'He's removed his 'sense of self' with his Clan Trait, you won't be able to do anything other than alert him if you continue. It's a smart move as a politician, especially one who I expected to cover for his daughter no matter what.' Susanoo's voice rings in my ears, chastising me.
'Him?' I ask, not believing that the cold calculated person in front of me would care about his daughter beyond practicality.
'Like I said, the person in front of you at the moment isn't the normal Marquis Shax. It's normal for Devils to be fiercely protective of their children given their infertility.' Susanoo mentally shrugs.
By the time I process that, Byakko has finished his account of the events and the room has gone silent again.
"I assume these other kids are here to back up that interpretation of the events then?" Marquis Shax asks.
"Yes, they were all present and would repeat the same story. If you want we can ask around the room." Susanoo asks playfully, knowing how insane that would be but offering all the same.
"No, that won't be necessary. I know my daughter well enough to see how she would decide on that stupidity." He turns from Susanoo and makes eye contact with Byakko, "I apologize for the actions of my daughter and I would like to make things right with your clan."
Byakko looks even more enraged by the robotic delivery of the apology but a hand on his shoulder from Suzaku stops him. He closes his eyes tight and takes a deep breath.
She whispers in his ear and he nods tightly, "Thank you, Marquis Shax. The Shinra clan appreciates your apology and would like to discuss reparations."
"Of course," Marquis Shax nods, "But I believe there is more to discuss before that."
Serafall cuts in at that opportunity, "Yasaka-chan, would you mind elaborating on the point about the trafficking of people? That's quite a dire accusation to levy as, you know."
"Well, as you all know our West Yokai Faction is filled with diverse individuals with many talents. Those talents are especially valued as targets for peerages and the diversity is valued by those with 'exotic tastes'." I grimace at the implications and start to put together what they're referencing.
"One of the criminal organizations that previously acted in Kyoto without our oversight, The Golden Dragons, had connections to a known international trafficking group," Yasaka says and the screens shift showing a familiar scene.
On the screens are images showing the cages I had released those kidnapped individuals from so long ago, beneath that Golden Dragon's front. Each cage, now empty of the Yokai and other species, is decorated with a golden hand with an outstretched index finger pointed toward the viewer.
Serafall grimaces as she sees the images, muttering quietly, "Dammit, Yura-chan. Of all the people to get involved with."
Yasaka nods, "As you all know, this logo is from a quasi-religious organization in the Sovereign Territory of Ancyra, The Blessed Hand."
At my confused look, Yasaka whispers, "Ankara, Turkey."
"This organization is well known for trafficking a large variety of individuals of all species throughout to globe," Yasaka explains and apart from me, everyone seems aware of this.
"It's also frowned upon to deal with them in our society," Serafall says looking uncomfortable, "Too many circumstances of peerages being comprised of powerful slaves. It always ends with the King being killed and the slaves becoming strays."
Marquis Shax almost looks angry despite the emotional suppression, "You said that these 'Golden Dragons' were involved, yes? This does not mean my daughter was involved with them."
He turns to me, "I did my research beforehand and while the Golden Dragons were formally an independent criminal organization, they're now led by Ibaraki, correct?"
"You're suggesting that we forged the connection with your daughter to pile on more crimes?" I ask before Yasaka can respond in my stead.
"It would be easy to do, wouldn't it? My daughter also isn't here to contest her involvement and would surely do so regardless of the truth. Young Byakko also stated he killed my daughter's entire peerage so they cannot corroborate your story either." He finishes there and waits for a rebuttal.
Susanoo laughs and looks smug from his place at the head of the table, "You're correct on almost all your points. One member of your daughter's peerage survived and graciously provided her memories of the events. Would you like to see them?"
Susanoo winks at Yasaka and the displays shift again, playing a scene of Yura-Ann being escorted through the display of cages by Kintoki. The video is shown from a first-person perspective of who can only be Lillian.
I see many familiar faces in the cages, along with ones who were either sold or died before I released them. The nail in the coffin for Yura-Ann comes when Kintoki and her stop at a cage containing a familiar red-headed werewolf, that I recognize as the Rook of her peerage.
Yura-Ann and Kintoki discuss the purchase of the werewolf for a while before she snaps her fingers and Lillian hands him a briefcase.
With proof of a transaction shown the video ends there.
Susanoo is smiling looking so sickeningly smug as he watches Marquis Shax process that. On my end, I'm wondering when he even interrogated Lillian. I'm conflicted between getting angry at the fact he did this without asking me and being impressed that he had the proof ready for this moment.
Marquis Shax pinches his brow with his eyes closed and shakes his head, "I'm not sure when my daughter reached this point, and I suppose that is also how she reached this point. I've been neglectful in raising her it seems."
His expression becomes less robotic as he loosens his control of his Clan Trait becoming the face of a disappointed father. "On top of the loss of her peerage, I will make sure my daughter is punished for her transgressions in the overworld. She will be removed from succession immediately and will be thoroughly re-educated. I will also be happy to make amends to the West Yokai Faction and the Shinto Pantheon for my family's unfortunate role in this disgusting practice."
He stands and gives a heartfelt bow to Yasaka and a deeper bow to Susanoo. He looks hesitant as he looks at Susanoo again, "This peerage member who supplied the memory… They are still a member of our family despite the actions of my daughter. I will ensure that they are safe from my daughter's ire and continue to receive the support of the Shax family, of course."
Susanoo hums in response, "Sadly, shortly after supplying that memory they escaped custody. If we knew where they were we would of course hand them over to you, and we will update you in the future if they are found."
Marquis Shax just sighs and nods as though he expected that. He sits down again and steeples his hands on the conference table. "I suppose now we must speak about the conditions of my daughter's release and the future of our cooperation."
Susanoo kicks back in his chair and rests his feet on the table, looking content at how things have played out, "The Shinto Pantheon and the West Yokai Faction agree on our proposed conditions. Thus we present two for your consideration;
Firstly, a new department will be formed to work together with the Foreign Affairs department. This department will work as a customs department which will advise visitors from the Underworld of how they should conduct themselves in our country, in the hopes events like these do not happen again. They will also act as inspectors for the territories that have been leased to the Underworld and any that are in the future."
Serafall is razor-focused now, losing the playful nature she displayed at the start. Her skill as Head of Foreign Affairs shows now that serious discussions are occurring, belying the ditzy magical girl appearance she showed when she entered.
"We can agree to that conditional, provided we can discuss the duties of the department in detail as well as their jurisdiction." Susanoo waves off that request.
"Naturally we won't unilaterally try to impose this on you. We appreciate your cooperation and value the opinions of your department." Susanoo agrees, being uncharacteristically reasonable. "Our next condition, however, is non-negotiable. Yasaka, if you will?"
"Of course, Lord Susanoo. In the spirit of releasing a prisoner back to your custody, we suggest an exchange." As Yasaka says this Serafall's eyes narrow and even Marquis Shax tunes back in.
"An exchange," Serafall tastes that statement and looks as though she's trying hard to predict where this is going, "That's not a subject entirely managed by my department. It would largely depend on which criminal you wish to exchange for. We value the daughter of Lord Shax greatly but releasing a dangerous criminal would be extremely concerning."
"The criminals in question would be the Black Cat Kuroka and her sister Shirone. Their parents were citizens of Urakyoto originally and it would be a shame if those children never see their parent's home." Yasaka finishes with a gentle smile meant to pull at the heartstrings.
I'm struggling to remember the timeline due to how unprepared I was for this revelation. I knew that Kuroka was a stray for a while and Koneko was an early member of Rias' peerage but I would've thought the events of their story happened later.
Serfall though looks conflicted, "Black Cat Kuroka is an SS-class Stray Devil who murdered her King, and Kon- Shirone is in protective custody. Shirone in particular is struggling to understand her sister's actions and is only just becoming settled where she is."
I frown at Serafall, wondering why she's pushing this narrative that Kuroka is a criminal so hard. She has to know that Kuroka acted in defense of her sister and that her King was a royal asshole.
In my mind, Serafall isn't the kind of person to act like this, so she must legitimately not know. In that case, I'll just correct her.
"Their King was experimenting on them in an attempt to reproduce Super-Devils." I pause and tilt my head, "And maybe something to do with King Pieces?"
Serafall and Marquis Shax stare at me looking shocked and my smile might be a bit smug as I ask, "Self-defense isn't a criminal act in the Underworld is it?"
"I'm sorry, Ibaraki sometimes gets lost in her mind." Yasaka pipes up quickly with a nervous smile, "I'm sure it was nothing."
"No, I'd like to hear what Ibaraki-chan has to say." Serafall interrupts looking at me intently.
I grin victoriously when she asks for more information because I can fully correct this misunderstanding now.
My brows scrunch as I pluck through my memory for the right knowledge, "Oh, right, it was Super-Devil research based on Nekoshou. It was under the assumption that Nekoshou are a special more powerful variant of Nekomata similar to Super-Devils and normal Devils. He reached the limits of his research using Kuroka and wanted to use Shirone to experiment on instead. I can't see another way to easily reproduce Super-Devils but King Pieces so I assume that was the vector of his research."
Ophis' snakes would also work but they aren't easy to get without being part of the Khaos Brigade.
"Kuroka objected to that as you all know," I nod, satisfied that I got the truth out. I always thought Kuroka dealt with a ton of shit for doing the correct thing in a terrible situation.
"Thank you, Ibaraki-chan✩, we'll investigate those claims," Serafall winks at me, and a star appears beside her before floating towards me, "Though until we know whether that is the truth or not, it will be hard to release Kuroka-chan to your custody."
As it floats into my range, I swat the star aside, "You don't have her in custody anyway. Don't pretend."
The star circles back and I have to apply Touki to my hand to fully banish it. When I turn my attention back, both Devils are looking embarrassed at being called out.
Right, if this all happened recently, it wouldn't have spread yet that they lost a dangerous prisoner. I probably should have alluded to that revelation more delicately but the secrecy is annoying me.
Before Serafall can ask me anything, I point at my third eye and make up an excuse, "I have a powerful gift of prophecy. Amazing, right? I just know things sometimes."
I cross my arms and glare at Serafall, daring her to ask me more questions. I might be happy to point her in the right direction but spoon-feeding her all the information is a no.
Am I being stupid and petty? Yes, but I don't want to try and explain how I know all this.
Serafall coughs into her fist and looks uncomfortable, "Ibaraki-chan is correct, no matter how surprised I am that she knows that. We are scouring the Underworld to find Kuroka-chan as we speak."
Yasaka's smile is radiant, "That makes things simple then, should Kuroka 'show up' in Japan, we will deal with her instead. Of course, we will punish her for her crimes in the Underworld accordingly."
Serafall answers with a shakey smile, "I can't unilaterally agree but tentatively I will. After this meeting, I will confer with the other Satans but I believe we can agree officially soon."
"Excellent!" Susanoo claps loudly standing up. "Now, all that remains is for the Principal Clans and House Shax to iron out reparations. Since that is the case, I'd like to invite the West Yokai Faction members and Satan Leviathan to talk outside."
I stand up along with Yasaka and Serafall to follow Susanoo out of the room. Serfall keeps glancing at me curiously and I grimace. I'm uncomfortable with the scrutiny and honestly, I need to learn to keep my mouth shut sometimes. I think it turned out to be a good thing this time but it won't always go my way.
Someone clears their throat and I turn to see Suzaku standing up, "Lord Susanoo, do you mind if I accompany you all out?"
Susanoo glances between us and slowly smirks, "Not at all, Suzaku."
Suzaku does a quick bow and swiftly moves to my side, hooking our elbows together. A glance over happily surprised by the contact but she's not looking at me, instead glaring at Serafall.
The display doesn't have the effect that Suzaku wanted because Serafall covers her mouth with both hands and gasps, literal stars manifesting in her eyes. She squees in excitement, "Pure Yuri-Yuri love~✩ and bridging the ancient enmity between two factions!"
Suzaku turns away from Serafall and glances at me with wide eyes and beet-red cheeks before burying her face in my shoulder. Yasaka's throaty chuckle only amplifies Suzaku's embarrassment.
Once we are outside, in a beautiful garden area, and away from the conference room, the light-hearted mood shifts.
"Could you tell me more about what you mentioned earlier, Ibaraki-chan?" Serafall asks curiously but there's an insistent edge to the question. It makes me feel that I don't have much of a choice in the matter.
"I told you already, prophecy." I shrug, though internally I'm uncomfortable.
"I hope you won't pry too hard, Serafall. Ibaraki is a valued servant of mine." Susanoo interjects, and I find 'servant' to almost be more offensive than minion despite his obvious effort to make his statement more palatable.
"You have to understand how this looks, Su-chan. She has convenient, confidential information that she should have no way of having." Serafall crosses her arms and pouts.
"What of the Pillar families who specialize in divining the future or have a Clan Trait to predict it? Should I question you on what private information they have?" Susanoo asks conversationally but there's a warning to his tone.
"Fine but can she tell me how she knows of the King Pieces? Ajuka-tan got rid of them so long ago and even then their development was top secret." My mouth almost gets the better of me but I manage to bite my tongue before I spew out more future knowledge.
"I can tell you but I'm sure you'd want that to be private." Serafall looks surprised but then beams at me.
"You'd be willing, Ibara-tan?" My eye twitches at the new nickname and Suzaku's grip on my arm tightens.
"I'm not sure that would be appropriate," Suzaku growls out at Serafall.
She shivers when I lean in and whisper into her ear, "I'll be fine, Suzaku."
I give her a quick peck on the cheek to reassure her at least.
"Is there are reason not to tell everyone? It's not information that would be useful for us." Yasaka asks casually and bats her eyes at me.
I snort and roll my eyes, "Would you want embarrassing secrets of your faction to be spread around? I'm doing diplomacy here, Yasaka."
That statement was a little petty but I'm still a bit sore about Yasaka speaking for me earlier. Yes, I do speak before thinking more often than I should but telling people I get lost in my thoughts and randomly say things out loud?
Rude.
After untangling myself from Suzaku, Serafall and I stroll further away from the conference room into the garden.
Serafall skips beside me but still examines me with a curious expression, "How does this 'prophecy' ability work?"
"It's a secret~, Levia-tan," I respond playfully ignoring how she lights up at that form of address, "You wanted to know about the King Pieces though?"
"Mhm! I was surprised when you brought them up." She nods happily, twirling her magical girl staff idly.
"Well, I didn't want to say this in front of the others but they aren't 'old news' like you thought." The temperature drops suddenly and my breath condenses.
"Ibara-tan, I'm going to need to know exactly what you mean by that." It's only now that I notice the enormity of the Demonic Power Serafall possesses.
I knew intellectually before she arrived but the ditzy magical girl persona did its job disarming me. The Serafall beside me now is the Satan Leviathan covered by a thin veneer of Levia-tan.
"Ajuka made 9 pieces before he stopped, 6 fell into the hands of the Great King Faction. They're being used to dominate the rating games to control politics and economics in the Great King Faction's favor." I gulp as the pressure eases up and use some minor shapeshifting to suppress my blush.
Serafall is insanely powerful and that's very hot. I shake my head to clear my thoughts while she processes that bombshell.
She groans and puts her head in her hands, "This is going to be such a mess. You wouldn't happen to know who has used them, do you?"
Serafall looks up at me with puppy-dog eyes and I try to piece together exactly what happens with the King Pieces. I know what was discussed in the story about the pieces but there was a lot of detail left out.
"Bedeze Abbadon and Roygun Belphegor obtain pieces at some point… Diehauser Bellial also obtains one but that happens after Cleria Bellial is killed by the Great King Faction for investigating the King Pieces. Diehauser follows that same trail trying to understand how Cleria was killed and gets his. I think Roygun could be convinced to be a double agent because she has a genuine love for Rating games but Bedeze is too selfish for that." I nod along with my explanation, pretty happy with it.
The original story was a bit sparse on the fine details but that is a pretty good overview. Serafall however, doesn't seem as appreciative of my description of the events.
"Ibara-tan," She says looking pained, "You're saying Cleria Bellial is going to be killed now?"
I groan and close my eyes, "Not if you deal with the King Pieces before that. Can we not keep fractally dissecting this? Otherwise, we'll be here forever and my girlfriend will think I'm out here flirting with you."
I mentally apologize to Suzaku for using her as an out and promise to apologize in person later but for now, I don't want to stumble into relaying the entirety of the future to Serafall.
"...fine, though I'd much rather keep asking questions instead," Serafall mutters, "Is there anything I can do for you, Ibara-tan? This is incredibly useful information if it turns out to be true, and I wouldn't put it past that decrepit specter Zekky."
I pause since I didn't expect anything in return for this, and mull over the question.
My first instinct is to ask for a fight. I never said Susanoo was wrong when he said that is what I'd do, only that I was offended that he said it and his assessment of my fighting ability was wrong and rude.
However, after experiencing her power up close, I'm willing to concede that Susanoo was probably a tiny bit correct.
After going through everything I can think of, there's only one thing that stands out in my mind.
"I'm not sure if you know, but my people have only now been reintroduced to the world." I start with and Serafall raises a brow, not understanding what I'm getting at.
"As a species, we're pretty strong and I know that's something that Devils look for in peerage members." I continue and Serafall looks excited, clasping my hands in hers.
"Oh, if you're asking what I think you're asking this is amazing!" She squeals happily.
"Not yet, but I'd be interested in your help coordinating a relationship with your faction similar to the Familiar Forest. Occasionally allowing a King or a few into the village to scout for peerage members. Of course, there would be rules but we can narrow those down when the time comes." I finish and Serafall jumps up and down in excitement.
"Yes! This is great and I'm so conflicted right now!" She says despite her grin.
I laugh until she finally lets go, getting swept up in the mood. "There are a lot of details to work out but I'm sure a few of my people would be willing to fight in your Rating Games. Though convincing them to do anything else will be… difficult."
Serafall tilts her head and taps the side of her chin in a cute gesture of confusion, "Hm, that would make contracts hard, wouldn't it? Contract work is very important for Devils."
I nod along and shrug, "You'd struggle to find a species more consistently well-suited for a Rook piece though. Combined with our attitude toward combat and training, you would have a useful peerage member."
Serafall purses her lips, "I see what you mean by there being a lot of details to work out. Still, I appreciate you making this offer, Ibara-tan."
She suddenly gets a playful glint in her eyes and grins, "Since you didn't tell me something I could do to repay you, I'll have to come up with a gift myself. Have you ever considered becoming a magical girl?"
I blanch, "Never in a million years."
"We should probably get back soon so your girlfriend doesn't get worried." Serafall waggles her eyebrows before skipping ahead, laughing all the way.
"Levia-tan! Don't do this!" I yell chasing after her.
Already I'm regretting telling her anything.
When we get back to the others, Susanoo is napping on a cloud with his hat covering his face, leaving Yasaka and Suzaku to chat.
"Was your secret conversation productive?" Yasaka asks playfully with a glint in her eyes that worries me.
"Mhm! I'm super grateful to Ibara-tan for being considerate. I get shy around so many people~✩!" Serafall clasps her hands in front of her chest and wiggles her hips.
My eyes widen in shock and I glare at Serafall to get her to shut up.
I'm beside Suzaku in a flash lacing our hands together and sending alternating glares at Serafall and Yasaka, "Serafall is playing a cruel joke right now. Unless I should repeat what I told her about the King Pieces here after all."
Serafall chuckles looking contrite, "Hehe, oops?"
Suzaku grabs my chin gently and turns my head towards her, "I believe you but I'd like to leave with you now. Okay, Ibaraki?"
"Yes, definitely," I respond in exhausted relief.
"Don't do anything I wouldn't do," Susanoo calls out lazily as Suzaku teleports us away.
We reappear on the soft grass of the clearing Suzaku brought me to after we dealt with Yura-Ann and everything before. Returning like this makes me feel that this ordeal is over finally.
"That was a lot," Suzaku says flopping down on the grass, uncaring of dirtying her clothes.
I feel myself relax further as she looks up at me and pats the ground beside her.
Rolling my eyes fondly, I join her. "I'm glad it's over. Or my involvement is at least."
"Our involvement, thankfully. I don't want to argue about reparations either." She sighs and stares up at the sky.
Feeling a nagging tug of guilt in the pit of my stomach, I decide now is as good a time as any. "I have something important to tell you."
She props herself up on her elbow, looking concerned, "Nothing bad, right? Serafall didn't do anything to you?"
Despite the seriousness I smile, "No nothing like that. I have good news to tell you… or it's news that you'll be happy about anyway but I can't tell you yet. I wanted to at least let you know that much because I hate feeling like I'm lying to you."
Suzaku turns to me fully and cups my cheek with her free hand, "That's… I can't say I understand fully with only that much."
She frowns but keeps her hand there, and I cling to the warmth on my cheek like a lifeline. "Do you already know who's behind the kidnappings from Tobio's school?"
I'm a little surprised that she jumped to that conclusion but I'm not going to lie outright now that she's brought it up, "Yes but that isn't what I'm talking about. I'll tell you, but please don't keep digging. I don't want to be put in a scenario where my only choice is to lie to your face."
Suzaku's frown deepens but she doesn't pull away, instead, she starts to gently stroke my cheek with her thumb, "I can't promise to be happy when you finally tell me but I trust you, Ibaraki. I can also see how hard this is for you and I don't want you to feel that way."
She leans in and kisses me, pulling back just enough to make eye contact, "I can wait till you're ready."
"Thank you for understanding." I slowly manage to get out and blink away my blurry vision.
Staring at the vision of beauty smiling so tenderly in front of me, I feel more than simple attraction.
"I would like to hear all about those kidnappers though," She says playfully, kissing me on the nose.
I let out a watery laugh and clear my throat, "Fine, fine, I can tell you that much."
"First I need to tell you about the Four Fiends plan…"