It had been a week since the intense encounter with the fallen angels, and life had gradually returned to normal for everyone.
The members of the Occult Research Club resumed their usual routines, their spirits lifted after overcoming such a dangerous ordeal.
Among them, Raizel and Akeno's connection seemed to be flourishing in an unexpected way. Their interactions had grown more frequent and familiar, with a subtle warmth developing between them.
The teasing exchanges and shared moments of concern during the battle had deepened their bond, creating a unique understanding between the two.
Akeno found herself increasingly drawn to Raizel's calm demeanor and subtle charm, while Raizel appreciated her unwavering strength and caring nature. Their connection, though still evolving, was becoming a bright spot in their otherwise chaotic lives, offering both a sense of comfort and intrigue.
After classes had ended, Raizel made his way to the Occult Research Club, where Akeno was waiting. They sat together, enjoying a calm and peaceful moment as they chatted.
Raizel, ever graceful, finished his tea with an elegance that seemed effortless, his composed demeanor adding a soothing presence to the room.
As their conversation continued, Raizel set his cup down gently and, with a subtle use of his abilities, conjured a batch of perfectly crafted cookies, inspired by the culinary masterpieces from 'Food Wars' anime. The enticing aroma quickly filled the room, catching Koneko's attention.
He handed the cookies to her with a small smile, and she accepted them with a quiet nod of gratitude.
Turning back to Akeno, Raizel's gaze softened as he asked, "Is Rias not present?"
His calm inquiry lingered in the air, as the peaceful atmosphere of the club room provided a welcome respite from their usual adventures.
Just as Raizel posed his question, the door to the Occult Research Club opened, and Rias entered, followed closely by Grayfia. Rias gave Raizel a nod of acknowledgment, a subtle smile playing on her lips.
However, Grayfia's gaze was sharp and inquisitive as she addressed him.
"And who might you be?" she asked, her tone formal and measured while on guard.
Raizel stood, his demeanor calm and respectful. With a slight nod, he spoke quietly, his voice smooth and composed. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Miss Grayfia Lucifuge. Frankenstein has spoken of you, and I believe he must have informed you about me as well."
He paused briefly before continuing, "I am, Cadis Etrama Di Raizel."
His introduction carried an air of dignity and grace, leaving a subtle but lasting impression. Grayfia's expression softened slightly, recognizing the weight behind his words, and she gave a small nod in return, acknowledging his presence.
Upon hearing the name "Cadis Etrama Di Raizel," Grayfia's proud demeanor shifted instantly. A hint of surprise flickered in her eyes, as she bowed her head slightly in a gesture of respect. "I apologize for my earlier rudeness," she said, her tone now more formal and courteous. "I did not realize who you were."
As Raizel and Grayfia continued their conversation, the door to the club room opened once more, and Issei and Kiba entered.
Issei, spotting Grayfia, immediately straightened up, his eyes wide with recognition. "Miss Grayfia!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with both surprise and admiration.
Grayfia turned to acknowledge Issei with a slight nod, her composed demeanor firmly in place once again. The room was now filled with a mix of curiosity and respect, as everyone adjusted to the unexpected gathering.
As everyone settled onto the sofas, Koneko's gaze remained fixed intently on Raizel.
Her quiet but focused demeanor drew Raizel's attention, and he spoke softly, his question cutting through the quiet murmur of the room. "You want more?"
Koneko, her expression still composed, nodded her head rapidly, almost like a bird pecking at grains.
A small, amused smile tugged at Raizel's lips as he effortlessly conjured two packs of cookies and sent them floating over to her using his telekinesis. She caught them with a quiet nod of gratitude.
With a calm and composed tone, Raizel turned back to Grayfia. "You can resume your talk, Miss Grayfia," he said, his polite words seamlessly steering the conversation back on track.
The brief interaction had lightened the atmosphere, leaving the room's occupants with subtle smiles as they returned their focus to the ongoing discussion.
Grayfia said to rias. "My lady if you don't mind, may i have your permission to speak openly?"
As Issei was about to speak, rias gestured him to stop and said." Let's hear her out."
Just as Grayfia was about to continue the conversation, a large magic circle, glowing with flames and emblazoned with a Phenex symbol, appeared in the center of the room.
The intense heat and light filled the space, and when the glow subsided, Riser Phenex stood proudly in the middle, his usual flamboyant demeanor on full display.
"Phenex and Riser have arrived in the human realm!" he announced grandly, his voice echoing through the room. Turning his attention to Rias, he spread his arms in a dramatic gesture. "I have come here to see you, my beloved Rias."
'Dickhead, he is acting like he own the place.' Thought Raizel inwardly.
The room fell silent as everyone processed Riser's sudden and bold entrance. Rias's expression hardened slightly, clearly displeased by his presence, while the others exchanged glances, bracing for what was to come.
Raizel, ever composed, watched quietly, his gaze calm but observant, ready to see how the situation would unfold.
As Issei saw Riser he inquired. "Ok. Who is this douche?"
Grayfia began the introduction. "This gentleman he is Riser Phenex. He is a pureblooded of noble birth..." after a brief pause she continued. "Third heir in line to the house of Phenex."
"Gentlemen my ass. He is behaving like bastard." Raizel muttered but akeno heard him and said, "you are showing your emotions quiet often now."
"I am just annoyed and it's in front of you." Raizel grumbled slightly and teased her earning a slight chuckle.
"That's means what?" As Issei loud voice got their attention.
"He is also fiancé to the next head of the house Gremory." Grayfia explained.
...