Chapter 43:
– Azazel –
Azazel leaned back into his office chair, spinning idly from side to side as he stared at the ceiling with a sigh. The hum of machinery and quiet ticking of the clock on his wall did little to dispel the monotony of his current situation. How long had Penemue been speaking now?
Five minutes? Fifteen? It felt like hours. Being the leader of an entire faction was a mixed bag—yes he could get pussy whenever he wanted—but it also came with so much paperwork and almost never ending meetings!
His fingers twitched with frustration, craving the familiar touch of metal tools and intricate circuitry rather than the suffocating boredom of diplomacy. He cast a longing glance toward the half-assembled artificial sacred gear lying abandoned on his workshop table across the room. So close, he thought irritably, wishing he could return to tinkering with its delicate mechanisms instead of listening to endless droning about angels and devils.
"Azazel, are you even listening to me?"
Penemue's voice broke through his wandering thoughts, bringing him sharply back to reality. Azazel slowly tilted his head forward, offering his secretary a lazy, charming grin as he openly admired her.
Today, at least, boredom came with a rather enticing view.
Penemue stood before his desk with one hand resting on her hip, her piercing eyes narrowed slightly in mild irritation. She was dressed impeccably—her black business top cut deliberately low, offering an enticing glimpse of her full, generous cleavage every time she breathed. It was enough to make his boredom a bit more tolerable.
"Honestly," she sighed, tapping a manicured finger impatiently against the folder in her other hand. "I swear you have the attention span of a child."
He chuckled softly, unrepentant. "Well, can you blame me?" Azazel gestured playfully toward her chest. "With that outfit, I have all the distraction I need right in front of me."
Penemue arched an elegant eyebrow, a hint of amusement flickering briefly through her eyes despite her stern expression. "Maybe I should start dressing more conservatively if that's the only way to make you focus."
"Please don't," he said quickly, holding his palms up in surrender. "I promise, I'm listening now. Go ahead, continue with the riveting topic of peace talks."
With an exasperated huff, Penemue stepped closer, placing the open folder firmly onto his desk and leaning forward to highlight something in the documents. Azazel's gaze inevitably fell again, lingering appreciatively on the soft curves revealed by her neckline. He could hear Penemue speaking, explaining the specifics of the devils' and the angels' demands—territorial compromises, joint operations, more cooperation and transparency—all matters Azazel found annoyingly dull and bureaucratic.
But it was at least for a good cause. More peace meant he could spend more time having fun and slacking off. Ugh, why did he think war was a good idea when he was a young and dumb fallen angel.
War sucked ass… What was it good for? Absolutely nothing.
Suddenly, the door to Azazel's office slammed violently open, crashing into the wall with enough force that it rattled the shelves nearby. Penemue jerked, spinning around sharply in surprise as Azazel's eyes snapped up toward the commotion.
Baraqiel stormed into the room. His broad shoulders heaved, every muscle taut with barely-contained rage, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned stark white. "I'm going to fucking kill him!" Baraqiel snarled viciously, his voice a dangerous, guttural roar that Azazel hadn't heard in centuries. "I'll rip his goddamn heart out and shove it down his throat!"
Azazel swiftly rose from his seat, heart racing as alarm jolted through him. He and Penemue exchanged bewildered looks.
Neither had ever witnessed their usually calm, level-headed brother so utterly incensed. It took a hell of a lot to piss him off.
"Baraqiel," Azazel said cautiously. "Hey, calm down. Who pissed you off this badly?"
Baraqiel ignored him entirely, pacing frantically in front of Azazel's desk. He seized a nearby chair and hurled it violently against the far wall, splintering it into pieces with an angry crash. "That bastard! That slimy fucking coward—I'll tear him limb from limb for what he did!"
Penemue cautiously moved to Azazel's side, her eyes wide and wary as she watched their brother's rampage unfold. Azazel placed a steadying hand on Baraqiel's shoulder, forcing him to halt his pacing.
"Baraqiel," he said firmly, meeting the larger man's enraged gaze, "Slow down. What the hell happened? Talk to us. We're here."
Baraqiel drew in a ragged breath, chest heaving, as he struggled visibly to regain control. "Akira," he growled through gritted teeth, voice still shaking with raw emotion. "My son, Azazel—he's alive."
Azazel stared at him blankly for a moment, utterly stunned into silence. Beside him, Penemue gasped softly, her hand flying up to cover her parted lips. "Akira…your boy? But he—he died years ago. Didn't he?" Azazel finally asked.
Baraqiel shook his head vigorously, a bitter, tormented expression darkening his face. "I thought he did. I was sure of it! That's why I never tried to search for him. I'm a failure…" he said solemnly for a moment before continuing. "But I was wrong. He survived. Raynare, Mittelt, and Kalawarna just returned—they found him alive, Azazel. My boy's been alive all this time. They found him in Kuoh territory, the same town as my daughter!"
Wow! That was amazing! Azazel supposed that sometimes even miracles can happen for the damned angels cast out of heaven like them!
Azazel let out a stunned laugh, clapping Baraqiel firmly on the shoulder. "Well shit, brother, that's amazing news! Congratulations—"
But Baraqiel angrily shrugged Azazel's hand away, turning to glare furiously at the wall as his fists clenched again in barely contained violence. "Don't celebrate yet," he spat venomously. "That bastard Kokabiel knew months ago! Months! He found out about Akira being alive and went after him personally!"
WHAT!? Kokabiel would dare to try and commit kinslaying? Fallen Angels had the lowest population of the three factions by far. Even if they could breed with humans, Nephilims were still a rarity and considered precious. It was forbidden to kill other Fallen Angels unless they attacked you first. That was one of the Grigori's most strict laws!
Azazel's expression hardened instantly. "You're certain?" he demanded to know.
Baraqiel turned back sharply, fire blazing in his eyes. "Yes, I don't think any of those girls were lying to me. I've been around long enough that they wouldn't be able to fool me. Akira told them his story himself, although he apparently changed his name to Blake Himejima for some reason. A few months ago, we all remember that Kokabiel himself randomly went to Earth and we never knew why! Now I know it's because he discovered my son and tried to assassinate Blake!"
Penemue's breath hitched softly. "He would truly dare harm your son?"
"He didn't just dare, Penemue—he nearly succeeded. And now he's going to suffer for it!" Baraqiel's furious glare cut sharply to Azazel. His entire body trembled with barely-contained wrath, the muscles along his thick arms straining as he clenched and unclenched his fists repeatedly. "Azazel," he snarled, "where the fuck is Kokabiel right now? Tell me!"
Azazel rubbed his chin uneasily, expression darkening. He genuinely didn't know. He'd always been pretty relaxed as a leader, maybe too relaxed at times. Azazel had never bothered keeping strict tabs on his fellow Cadre members.
"Hell if I know," Azazel admitted bitterly. "You know me. I don't exactly micromanage you guys..."
"Then find out!" Baraqiel snapped, stepping aggressively toward Azazel. "If that piece of shit thinks he can target my family and get away with it, I'll hunt him down and skin him alive!"
"Wait!" Penemue suddenly interjected, her voice trembling slightly as her eyes widened in sudden horror. Both men turned sharply toward her as she quickly grabbed another file from a nearby shelf, frantically flipping through the pages.
Did she know something…?
"What is it, Penemue?" Azazel demanded tensely.
Penemue's fingers halted abruptly on a particular document, and she quickly skimmed the page, her complexion paling visibly. "Kokabiel," she said breathlessly, lifting her stunned gaze to meet Azazel's eyes. "Two weeks ago, he filed a mission request. Said he was taking his Legion on a training exercise."
A training exercise? Azazel felt an uncomfortable chill crawl down his spine. "Where?" he asked grimly, already suspecting the worst.
Penemue swallowed hard. "Japan."
Silence fell upon the office for a moment, thick and suffocating as the implication sank in. Baraqiel's breathing grew harsher, faster, until suddenly, with a savage roar, he smashed his fist straight through Azazel's heavy oak desk, splintering it into two jagged halves. Pens, documents, and small metallic parts scattered chaotically across the floor in the wake of his fury.
"That fucking traitorous coward!" Baraqiel thundered, every syllable laced with venomous rage. "He's going after Akeno next! My daughter! First my son, now my girl! I'll fucking slaughter him!"
Azazel had always known Kokabiel despised the peace they'd painstakingly built, but never imagined he'd go so far as to betray them all, to commit outright kinslaying against Baraqiel's family. What was Kokabiel even hoping to accomplish with that? Was he trying to frame the devils to trick Baraqiel into joining him?
"Damn that bastard," Azazel growled under his breath, fists clenching involuntarily. Right on the verge of peace talks as well…
"I'm leaving," Baraqiel interrupted viciously, turning sharply toward the office door, his eyes now filled with grim resolve. "I'm going to Japan to find my children and rip Kokabiel apart with my own two hands."
Penemue immediately stepped forward in alarm, grabbing his arm firmly. "Baraqiel, wait! You shouldn't go off so suddenly—"
Baraqiel jerked his arm away roughly. "Don't try to stop me, Penemue. Nothing will get between me and that traitorous fuck!"
Their brother had already stormed out of Azazel's office, leaving the broken remnants of the oak desk in his wake, before either Azazel or Penemue could come up with something to calm him down or hold him back.
Azazel stared numbly at the splintered wood and scattered papers that now littered the carpeted floor, shaking his head slowly. Maybe it really was best to let Baraqiel go and vent his fury, better for him to unleash it now than let it fester.
Still, Penemue quickly stepped forward, grabbing Azazel's arm urgently, her beautiful features etched deeply with worry. "Azazel, you can't just let him go off like that! Baraqiel and Kokabiel have always been equals in strength, they're evenly matched at best. And that's not even taking into account Kokabiel's legion of followers. He's always surrounded by loyal soldiers. Baraqiel will be flying straight into a trap!"
Azazel sighed wearily, running a frustrated hand through his unruly black hair. Penemue was right, and he knew it. Kokabiel was cunning, ruthless, and never fought fair. A straight-up fight would almost certainly put Baraqiel at a massive disadvantage, even if fueled by a father's raw, righteous fury.
"Yeah, you're right," Azazel admitted bitterly, meeting Penemue's anxious gaze. "But what the hell else can we do right now? We're on the verge of peace talks with the angels and devils. If either of us openly intervenes, it could look like we're instigating a civil war among ourselves. That bastard Kokabiel's probably counting on that, hoping we'll make the first move and screw everything up..."
Penemue bit down on her lower lip, clearly torn. "We can't just do nothing, Azazel."
"Don't worry, Penemue," he said finally, the mischievous gleam returning to his eyes. "I think I've got just the guy for this situation."
Penemue's brow furrowed slightly in confusion. "Who?"
"Vali," Azazel answered confidently, already moving to grab his cell phone from amidst the rubble of his destroyed desk. "That adopted brat of mine hasn't left Grigori headquarters in weeks. He's probably dying of boredom right now and itching for some action. Time to let him spread his dragon wings and stretch his legs a bit."
Penemue's eyes widened briefly before her expression softened into a relieved smile, understanding and approval dawning across her lovely face. "You think he'll be willing to help?"
Azazel chuckled softly, already dialing Vali's number. "Oh, he'll jump at the chance. I raised the kid, after all. I know him better than anyone. Trust me, he'll be delighted at the thought of finally cutting loose. If nothing else, he's the same age as Baraqiel's son. Maybe that anti-social dragon brat will finally make a friend or something…"
– Rias –
"You picked a hell of a night to go radio silent, Rias," Sona told her dryly, eyeing her friend carefully over the rim of her glasses.
Rias shifted guiltily, avoiding Sona's inquisitive gaze. "I…had my reasons," she mumbled evasively, cheeks reddening faintly. Waking naked beside her new pawn—someone she barely knew—was perhaps a little risqué, even for a devil heiress such as herself.
She was actually a bit glad that Sona had called her so early in the morning. Hyoudou Issei was passed out the entire time she was healing him and didn't get to wake up and see her naked.
"I'm certain you did," Sona replied evenly. "But you missed some truly crazy developments..."
Rias perked up slightly at that, curiosity immediately winning over her embarrassment. She leaned forward in her seat. "What happened?" she asked.
"It seems Akeno's missing older brother—Akira—is alive." Sona told her. "Although, he goes by the name Blake now."
Rias's mouth dropped open. "What?" she blurted out, voice sharp with disbelief.
Sona gave her a serious nod. "Absolutely certain. I met him myself last night after the church at the edge of town was assaulted by him and—someone else."
The implications hit her like a tidal wave. Akeno's younger brother—alive after all these years! Akeno's past had always been a delicate subject, carefully skirted around.
Before Rias could even fully process the enormity of the news, Sona continued, "There's more."
"What could possibly be bigger than that?"
Sona shook her head, as if she could hardly believe what she was about to say. "Their mother, Shuri Himejima—she's alive as well. The two of them will be coming to Kuoh in an hour to meet Akeno."
Rias bluescreened for a moment. And then—
"...NANA THE FUCK!?"
– Blake –
My mother Shuri and I walked quietly down the empty streets of Kuoh in the early morning. My heart hammered anxiously in my chest with every step I took closer to Kuoh Academy, the school my older sister, Akeno, was attending.
Kuoh Academy, where Akeno served as Queen to Rias Gremory, a devil princess. The thought unsettled me slightly.
My own sister, a devil.
I didn't know how to feel about that yet, so instead I hoped that whatever life she'd chosen had made her happy.
My mother noticed my apprehension and gently squeezed my hand, offering a comforting smile. Her raven-black hair fluttered behind her. "I know what you're thinking, Blake," she said softly, eyes forward as we walked. "But your sister is strong. No matter what path she chose, we should trust she's made the right decision." Shuri's expression hardened slightly. "And well, if we find out that she's miserable or being mistreated, we'll just kidnap her and take her home with us to America."
I snorted, unable to stop a grin at my mother's blunt, dead-serious tone. "Mom, you know Maou Lucifer probably wouldn't be thrilled about us snatching away his sister's Queen."
She shrugged casually with a dangerous gleam in her eyes as a confident smirk spread across her lips. "Lucifer may be powerful, but even the most powerful beings in the world can die. Remember, I've spent over a decade training as an assassin, dear."
I raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Are you seriously suggesting you'd assassinate Sirzechs Lucifer?"
She tilted her head slightly. "Well, I'd certainly give it my best shot."
Fuck, she really would try if it came down to it. And if she did, I'd definitely be right there beside her. Still, I silently hoped it wouldn't come to that.
The gates of Kuoh Academy soon appeared before us.
As we approached, I immediately recognized the two devils from yesterday standing there waiting. Kiba, the blonde guy I knocked on his ass with one punch, and beside him stood the cute, white-haired girl Koneko.
"Oh look," I murmured, smirking at my mother. "It's the welcoming committee."
Kiba stepped forward, squaring his shoulders and trying his damnedest to look threatening. Wasn't really working but he was trying.
"I want you to understand something clearly," he said in a sharp, warning tone, his eyes flickering between me and my mother. "If this turns out to be some kind of trick, if you hurt Akeno-san in any way, you'll pay dearly!"
I tilted my head, almost impressed by his courage, even after I'd effortlessly dropped him yesterday afternoon.
Before I could respond, the petite devil-girl beside him took a defiant step forward, her golden eyes glaring fiercely at me. "You won't beat us so easily this time," she announced in a monotone voice, her small fists tightening at her sides.
I snorted softly, raising an eyebrow at her with genuine amusement. "Oh? And did you suddenly get a hundred times stronger than you were yesterday afternoon, kitten?"
Her eyes narrowed dangerously at the nickname, and a furious blush colored her pale cheeks as she puffed them out stubbornly. She refused to answer, instead looking away with a frustrated huff that only made her seem more adorable.
I chuckled quietly. "That's what I thought."
Kiba gave me an irritated look and then sighed heavily, as if sensing this wasn't going anywhere productive. "Just follow us," he said flatly, reaching out and unlocking the gates. They swung open slowly with a loud metallic creak, revealing the pristine campus of Kuoh Academy beyond.
We stepped inside the school grounds, following behind Kiba and Koneko. As we approached an older building off to the side of the main school complex, I frowned. From a distance, it appeared deceptively run-down—a perfect disguise, really—but as we got closer, a faint prickle ran along my skin, making the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.
I glanced quickly toward my mother, seeing that same wary look reflected in her dark eyes. She met my gaze and nodded ever so slightly. We both sensed it clearly. The entire building radiated an intricate web of protective wards and powerful magic. It was cloaked heavily—almost expertly—hiding its true purpose from normal humans.
Interesting. Seems like the devils here took their security seriously.
"Nice wards you've got set up here," I commented casually, breaking the silence.
Kiba shot me a sharp glance over his shoulder, eyes narrowing slightly. "You can sense that?"
"Hard not to," my mother answered smoothly, her voice calm but alert. "It practically reeks of defensive enchantments."
He studied us silently for a moment before giving a cautious nod. "It's the Occult Research Club room," he explained briefly, turning back around. "This is where Rias-buchou and Akeno-san are waiting for you."
At the mention of my sister's name, my heart clenched anxiously, and my stomach knotted with sudden nerves.
Koneko hesitated, stopping abruptly in front of the heavy wooden entrance. She turned toward us, still glaring suspiciously. "Behave yourselves," she muttered darkly, her expression almost adorable in its seriousness.
My lips twitched into a small, teasing smile. "Relax, kitten. I promise not to start anything—unless you do first."
She gave another irritated huff and quickly turned away, pushing open the door and stepping inside. My mother squeezed my hand reassuringly, her grip steady and comforting.
"Well, Blake," she whispered softly, eyes bright with emotion. "This is it."
"Yeah," I exhaled slowly, fighting down the nervousness that churned inside me. "Let's go meet my sister."
– Pepper –
Having a boyfriend after so many years was definitely an experience. A wonderful experience, Pepper decided with a satisfied smile. She shifted slightly in her chair, wincing as her sore thighs and tender ass protested the movement.
Last night was intense. Blake had stamina like she'd never imagined possible, his powerful body leaving her deliciously spent and utterly content. She'd learned rather quickly that dating a fallen angel—a literal creature of sin—meant sex every night, sometimes multiple times.
Pepper wasn't entirely sure if all fallen angels were like that, or if it was just Blake's insatiable appetite, but she certainly wasn't complaining. What woman would when she was getting multiple amazing orgasms every night?
Pepper glanced around the quaint, warmly-lit dining room of the Japanese hotel, feeling strangely at ease despite. This was an interesting little vacation / trip so far. She was hoping to see more of Japan later with Blake, but this morning he and Shuri had left early to find Blake's long lost fallen angel devil hybrid sister.
That was a weird sentence in and of itself…
She stretched lightly, reaching across the table to pour herself another steaming cup of green tea. Way better and more authentic than Starbucks. The aroma was pleasant, soothing her senses as she sipped the warm beverage.
Across from her, her boss Tony Stark lounged lazily, idly tapping something into his tablet as he chewed absentmindedly on a piece of crispy bacon. Beside him, Happy Hogan attacked a large stack of fluffy pancakes dripping with syrup and melted butter, looking like a man determined to conquer his plate by sheer force of will.
And then there was the government spy. Natasha Romanov sat beside Pepper. Her eyes were keen, scanning the surroundings every few moments with an ingrained. The woman seemed paranoid by nature.
Next to Natasha, the adorable Italian girl Asia Argento nibbled shyly on a strawberry-filled pastry, her bright green eyes wide with innocent delight. Pepper couldn't help but feel protective toward the young girl, whose sweet temperament and gentle manners made her impossible not to like.
They were all up early enjoying the hotel's free breakfast.
Pepper chuckled inwardly. Even though she and Tony were both incredibly wealthy, free breakfast was still free breakfast.
"So, Pepper," Tony began casually, glancing up from his tablet with a teasing look in his eyes. "Had trouble sleeping last night?"
"Not at all," she answered smoothly, giving him an innocent look. "I slept wonderfully. How about you boss?"
"I slept great as well…" he smirked right back at her.
Pepper nodded. Before she'd met Blake, she could admit she harbored feelings for her boss. But now that they were both in a relationship with an incredible mother-son pair, Pepper was realizing her feelings towards Tony might have been less romantic and more familial in nature. She could easily admit these past few days, she was far happier than she'd been in a long time.
And that was despite the fact that Stark Industries stocks were currently in the toilet after Tony said he was ceasing all weapons development.
Yeah, they were going to have to deal with that as soon as they got back. But Tony definitely needed a small vacation, and if nothing else it seemed like the universe was looking out for her boss. Asia had healed him of that giant freaking hole in his chest.
When they got back to America and people asked questions, they could just lie and say they went to Japan for an experimental extremely expensive healing treatment for Tony.
Asia set down her pastry, licking a smudge of sweet strawberry jam from her fingertip as she gazed around at the group curiously. Her bright green eyes, filled with earnest innocence, fixed onto Pepper with concern. "Um...Miss Pepper?" she asked softly, almost timidly. "How do you think Blake-san and Miss Shuri are doing right now?"
Pepper smiled warmly, the mere thought of Blake making her heartbeat quicken. She reached out and gently squeezed Asia's delicate hand. "Honestly, Asia, they're probably doing just fine. Knowing Blake and Shuri, they're handling things perfectly well. They're both strong people."
Tony chuckled lightly from across the table. "Oh, come on, Pep. Let's be real here. This is their big emotional reunion day. They're definitely crying their eyes out right about now. Probably floods of happy tears, hugs, and snotty tissues all over the place. I'm happy for Shuri of course, I love that woman, but I'm also kind of glad to be missing out on all of that…"
Pepper was surprised that Tony was already using the "L" word when it came to Shuri. Did she feel that way about Blake? Hm, she wasn't quite sure yet. But she was very fond of him and was sure he felt the same way. That was good enough after only a few days.
Yep, her boss was the weird one, not her.
Happy paused mid-bite, a forkful of syrup-soaked pancakes hovering inches from his mouth as he snorted loudly. "You really think Shuri's crying? That woman scares me…"
"Really she cries all the time in bed," Tony smirked and then winced. He shot a pout at Natasha who just kicked him under the table.
The reason for that kick was Asia, who now looked confused over what he was talking about. "Why would miss Shuri be crying in bed? Is she sad?" She tilted her head innocently.
"No way! No woman ever walks away from my bed sad—Ow! Stop kicking me, scary spy woman!" Tony whined.
"Then stop trying to corrupt Asia with your crass discussion at breakfast!" Natasha retorted protectively. "Let her hold onto her adorable innocence a bit longer!"
"…Yes human, I would appreciate it if you didn't corrupt the lovely Miss Argento…"
They all stiffened as a suave voice spoke up from nearby.
Their table was suddenly approached by a handsome young man with green hair and eyes that almost glowed gold. Pepper blinked once, noticing it all looked natural. Inhumanly, really. The medieval-style clothing he wore appeared extravagant and out of place in the quaint hotel dining area.
Immediately, Pepper felt her instincts flare. She'd seen enough in her time working alongside Tony Stark to recognize the warning signs of someone creepy and dangerous. Those unnatural golden eyes fixated solely upon the innocent young girl seated at their table. Asia Argento.
Beside her, Natasha's posture tensed subtly. Their eyes met, exchanging a single, silent nod.
Natasha's hand slipped smoothly beneath the table, movements swift but carefully concealed. Her fingers settled around the grip of her hidden gun. Pepper herself tensed. Waiting to see what would happen next.
"Excuse me," Tony drawled lazily. "Did we invite the local anime convention or something?"
The strange young man's expression remained unfazed, a faint, disturbingly serene smile playing across his lips as his gaze never once wavered from Asia.
"Oh, please forgive the intrusion," the green-haired stranger said smoothly, voice honeyed and deceptively polite. His accent was faintly European, cultured and oddly melodic. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Diodora Astaroth, heir of the noble house Astaroth. It's a pleasure to finally meet you again...Asia Argento." He spoke Asia's name with disturbing intimacy.
What a fucking creep…
"Um...Have we met before, sir?" Asia asked him innocently. Natasha was obviously going to need to teach this girl how to read men.
"Indeed we have, Asia. You saved my life!" Diodora said with a smile. "And I came to repay that by making you an amazing offer…"
– Blake –
I barely stepped inside the ornate clubroom before a sudden blur crashed straight into me. Slender arms threw themselves around my neck as I stumbled back from the impact.
"Akira! I'm so happy you're alive!" My heart skipped several beats, realizing it was Akeno. Her voice had matured beautifully since the last time I'd heard it, now rich and melodious, but still unmistakably hers. "I missed you so much!" she cried out, her hold tightening almost painfully as she clung to me.
Holy shit. My older sister had grown in more ways than one. I could feel my face heat up in embarrassment and surprise as her generous, impossibly soft chest pressed firmly against my torso, squishing against me through the thin fabric of our clothes. Jesus Christ. Akeno had definitely inherited our mother's beauty, and now there was absolutely no denying it. I awkwardly hugged her back, carefully trying to ignore the sinful softness squashed into my chest and the warmth radiating from her figure.
"Akeno," I finally managed, voice muffled against her silky raven hair. "I'm happy to see you too, big sis." This was really happening, I could hardly believe it.
I glanced over her shoulder to see mom standing a few feet away, smiling warmly. Shuri's eyes glistened with barely-held tears of joy, her elegant features softening into a tender expression I'd rarely ever seen.
"I'm so happy my children are finally together again," she whispered emotionally, her voice shaking slightly with pure relief and happiness.
Akeno reluctantly pulled away slightly to stare up at me, her violet eyes sparkling beautifully as tears streamed down her porcelain cheeks. I gave her a gentle, comforting smile and softly wiped the tears away with my thumb. My chest tightened painfully at how vulnerable and relieved she looked.
"I thought I'd never see you again, Akira," she whispered softly, voice breaking slightly as she trembled with emotion. And then, Akeno's watery violet eyes drifted past my shoulder, landing on the beautiful woman standing silently behind me. Her breath hitched sharply, a choked gasp of disbelief escaping her trembling lips. "Mommy?" she whispered shakily, voice cracking with emotion. "Is—is that really you? You're alive?"
Mom's face broke into a soft, radiant smile, her own purple eyes shining with unshed tears. "Yes, baby," Shuri said gently, her voice warm yet heavy with remorse. "I'm right here. I'm so sorry for everything that happened."
Before I could even react, Akeno surged forward, still holding tightly onto me. In the blink of an eye, I found myself squished tightly between them as my sister threw her free arm around Mom. Both women hugged fiercely, sobbing softly against each other, trapping me snugly in the middle.
I struggled awkwardly, my face reddening at the sudden intimacy of the embrace. I felt Akeno's soft curves pressing firmly into my chest, her ample breasts squashed shamelessly against me. Behind, my mother's toned frame pressed warmly into my back. My cheeks burned hotter, blood rushing to places it definitely shouldn't when sandwiched between my gorgeous sister and mother.
Jesus Christ, Blake, pull yourself together!
"I—I never thought I'd get to see you again!" Akeno sobbed joyfully into Mom's shoulder. "I missed you so much, Mommy!"
Mom gently rubbed our backs, chuckling softly despite her tears. "I'm here now, Akeno. I'll never leave either of you ever again. I swear it."
I exhaled slowly, trying to focus on something—anything—that wasn't the incredible softness and warmth surrounding me. "Um, as touching as this moment is," I muttered awkwardly, voice muffled slightly by my sister's silky hair, "can we maybe loosen up just a little? I'm being squished alive here."
Both women laughed tearfully, finally loosening their embrace just enough for me to catch my breath.
"I'm so happy for you, Akeno!" a gorgeous redheaded devil spoke from nearby, breaking the moment. No, calling her a redhead didn't do her justice. Her hair was a breathtaking cascade of deep crimson, silky and vibrant enough to shame even the finest rubies.
My eyes drifted lower, helplessly tracing down the curves of her body, each inch of her figure an embodiment of temptation itself.
She stood tall, graceful yet seductive. Her ample breasts pressed enticingly against the fabric of her crisp white blouse, buttons straining valiantly to contain their voluptuous fullness. A thin, black ribbon was tied neatly around the elegant column of her throat, somehow making her pale, porcelain skin stand out even more vividly. Her slim waist led into generously curved hips hugged tightly by her skirt, her toned legs seeming impossibly long beneath the hem of her Kuoh Academy uniform.
My sister sniffled lightly, wiping her tears as she stepped back from me and mom. "Thank you, Buchou," Akeno replied gently, offering a sincere smile toward the breathtaking crimson-haired beauty.
The stunning devil's attention shifted fully to my mother and me. She flashed us a polite, welcoming smile and introduced herself. "I'm Rias Gremory—Akeno's King. It's a pleasure to finally meet you both."
Immediately, Mom and I simultaneously turned our attention toward Rias, scrutinizing her closely. My eyes narrowed sharply, carefully reading her expressions, her posture, the slight nervousness creeping into her otherwise poised demeanor under our combined gazes.
Rias fidgeted slightly beneath our penetrating looks, shifting her weight nervously from one foot to the other. "Umm… What's with those two looks?" she asked with a slightly uncomfortable gulp.
"Are you treating my daughter right?" Shuri demanded bluntly, her tone stern yet restrained.
I stepped forward too, my voice hardening as I leveled my suspicious gaze at Rias. "And why exactly is my sister a devil?" I added sharply. "How did that happen…?"
– Pepper –
Shit…
This pompous asshole was a devil, and he'd just given them his sob-story, as if expecting sympathy.
Pepper narrowed her eyes in disbelief as the stranger finished his carefully rehearsed explanation.
According to him, Asia had saved his life after he'd been attacked and left bleeding to death inside the heart of the Vatican. And now, his so-called repayment was making Asia a member of his "peerage"? Pepper scowled inwardly. From everything she'd gathered, becoming a peerage member basically meant being forced to serve someone else as their eternal servant.
How the hell was that supposed to count as repayment?
Next to Pepper, Natasha let out an impatient breath. "Okay, I'm calling bullshit on all of this," Natasha snapped sharply, her eyes blazing with cold suspicion. She slowly rose from her chair, never breaking eye contact with the strange green-haired devil. "You claim to be a devil—a noble devil at that. So why the fuck were you bleeding out in the heart of the Vatican? That's somewhere you should NEVER be allowed to go. I'm not even religious and I KNOW that. And conveniently, after Asia heals you, she's immediately kicked out of the church!? And here you are to conveniently repay her for her sacrifice…?"
Pepper nodded. Leave it to the spy to immediately suss out this guy's bullshit.
Diodora's serene expression twitched, just slightly, under Natasha's piercing accusations. His glowing gold eyes flickered with irritation for a fraction of a second before his mask slipped back into place. "I assure you," Diodora began smoothly, attempting a charming smile that didn't quite reach his unsettling gaze, "you're misunderstanding—"
"Bullshit," Natasha spat venomously again, cutting him off instantly. Natasha drew her handgun from beneath the table. She leveled the weapon directly at Diodora's forehead. "I know an inside job when I see one, asshole. Now you can get the fuck out of here and never come near Asia again, you creepy piece of shit. I swore to Asia that I would look after her from now on…"
"Natasha…" Asia's eyes looked like they were watering in happiness when she heard that.
A tense silence gripped the dining room. Other hotel guests froze at their tables, eyes wide and locked onto the confrontation unfolding before them. Several staff members began backing away slowly, clearly unsure how to handle the sudden escalation.
"I'm glad you said it first, because I was definitely thinking it," Tony drawled lazily, leaning back in his chair with forced casualness. Despite his relaxed tone, Pepper could clearly see Tony's stare fixed warily on Diodora.
He was expecting trouble. This was bad.
Happy cracked his knuckles loudly. "You want me to kick this bean sprout's ass for you, boss?"
"I'm pretty sure he'd kill you instantly if you tried, Happy—but as always, I appreciate your enthusiasm." Tony smirked, but Pepper could see the strain beneath his joke.
Happy frowned slightly, clearly annoyed by Tony's lack of faith in his combat prowess. He was tough for a human, but Pepper had seen how monstrous devils could actually be. And that crab monster had been a low class devil.
Across from them, Diodora's friendly demeanor evaporated completely. A dark scowl twisted his pretty features into something cold and menacing. His eerie gold eyes narrowed dangerously, his voice dropping into a threatening, sinister tone.
"You insignificant humans," he sneered venomously. "Do you truly believe yourselves capable of standing against a pure-blooded devil like me?"
Pepper felt the air around him distort, a heavy pressure prickling at the edges of her senses. Pepper's breath caught in her throat, heart pounding frantically as adrenaline surged through her veins.
"Fuck, I wish Blake was here…" she gasped. Was this devil going to attack them all right here? In front of all these other human hotel witnesses.
"...You would be wise to restrain yourself, vermin. Lest I be forced to act," a more masculine voice said from nearby. A large man with short black hair walked closer towards them.
"Baraqiel—the cadre…" Diodora stiffened as the words left his mouth. "What are you doing in devil territory!?"
Baraqiel? Pepper thought in shock, her eyes widening as she stared at the imposing man.Holy fuck, is this Blake's dad and Shuri's ex-husband?
What the hell was this morning turning into?
The man—Baraqiel—radiated a commanding presence that instantly shifted the tension in the room. She watched Diodora visibly stiffen in fear, his golden eyes widening as he faced the powerful Fallen Angel.
Clearly, whatever strength Diodora had didn't mean shit against someone like Baraqiel.
Diodora's jaw tightened in frustration as he turned desperately toward Asia. "I will return for you, my love," he vowed intensely, his voice coldly possessive. "Nothing will keep us apart!" Without waiting for a response, the green-haired devil swiftly pivoted, robes flaring dramatically behind him as he bolted from the dining room. Pepper guessed he'd find somewhere more private to teleport back to hell, or wherever creepy devils went to sulk.
Hopefully, the next time he showed up Blake or Shuri would be here so they could gut him.
A heavy silence settled over the stunned breakfast crowd, punctuated only by Tony's amused snort and Natasha's sharp exhale as she cautiously lowered her gun.
The large Fallen Angel sighed, tension easing from his frame as he turned slowly toward their group. His dark eyes swept briefly over everyone at the table, measuring each of them carefully before settling firmly on Pepper.
'Oh God, why is he looking at me specifically?' she wondered.
"Hello, everyone," he greeted them calmly, his voice surprisingly gentle for someone who'd just terrified an actual devil into fleeing. "I was passing overhead when I sensed that devil's malevolent presence." His gaze narrowed slightly. He studied Pepper intently for a moment, and suddenly she felt a nervous flutter in her stomach. "I heard you speak my son's name—Blake. What exactly is your relationship with him?"
Pepper's face heated instantly, mouth opening but no words escaping as embarrassment stole her voice.
Before she could gather herself enough to respond, Tony bluntly cut in. "Oh, they're fucking," he declared.
Pepper's face burned even hotter, turning completely crimson as she shot Tony a death glare. "Seriously?" she hissed at him.
Tony's shoulders shook in barely suppressed laughter, the threat of danger clearly forgotten as he fully enjoyed Pepper's embarrassment. Natasha rolled her eyes in exasperation while Happy openly chuckled beside her. Even Asia tilted her head in curious confusion, clearly not fully understanding the joke but sensing the mood had turned considerably lighter.
Pepper groaned inwardly. She turned hesitantly back to the imposing Fallen Angel who was now staring at her with raised eyebrows and an unreadable expression. "...Well me… Daughter-in-law…?" he added hesitantly.
"We're not that far in our relationship…yet," she pointed out and he nodded.
Tony then spoke up again. "Nice to meet you buddy and thanks for the save there. I'm Tony Stark and I'm fucking your ex-wife."
"…" Baraqiel seemed to go completely speechless at that.
"For fucks sake, Tony…" Pepper covered her face with her hands.
XXX
The whole family is now in the same town! And where is Vali?