"Alright, everyone. Starting today, we're officially entering the era of magician contracts."
It was evening, and Rias had gathered the group in the main hall. She clapped her hands, her tone both formal and excited.
"Magician contracts?"
"So we've finally reached that stage…"
"I'm kinda looking forward to it, honestly…"
The girls chimed in, trading comments and glances. Nobody seemed surprised—except, of course, for one person.
Tenra, curled up on the sofa with his little pet and a plate of snacks, looked up. "Rias, why bring this up all of a sudden?"
Rias sighed, giving him a look that mixed patience with exasperation. "Tenra, you really don't keep up with these things, do you?" She shook her head, then launched into an explanation:
"When new-generation Devils reach our age, it's tradition to start forming contracts with magicians. And after everything—the Khaos Brigade battles, the Rating Game—we've become pretty popular in the magic world. The Magician's Association has reached out to us several times, hoping their magicians can form contracts with us."
Tenra scratched his cheek, a little embarrassed. He'd never paid much attention to these formalities, but Rias's explanation made sense.
Magicians, in this world, were humans who devoted their lives to the study and practice of magic—black, white, summoning, spirit, and countless other branches. Most would choose a specialty and pour their entire lives into mastering it.
Contracts between Devils and magicians weren't like the typical devil-human deals. They were formal, long-term partnerships—serious business.
"Most of you probably know the basics, but let me break it down," Rias continued. "Magicians form contracts with Devils for three main reasons."
"One: protection. In a pinch, a magician can summon a powerful Devil as backup—especially useful in magical conflicts."
"Two: access to knowledge and resources. Magicians trade with Devils for magic tools, artifacts, or techniques from the Underworld. These can be invaluable for their research."
"Three: prestige. Just having a contract with a strong Devil can skyrocket a magician's reputation—and sometimes, their wealth."
She ticked off each reason on her fingers. Tenra and the girls nodded along.
The first reason was straightforward—Devils as magical muscle, summoned when things got rough. Especially for summoners, who might lack direct combat ability, having a Devil on call was a game-changer.
The second was all about access. Most outsiders couldn't just stroll into the Underworld and shop for rare items. But with a Devil contract, they could trade directly—no bureaucratic hassle.
Take Phoenix Tears, for example. The Phoenix family's signature item was so rare that even in the Underworld, it was considered a strategic resource. Outside, it was practically mythical—if one ever leaked out, the price would go through the roof. But if you had a contract with a Phoenix Devil, your odds of getting a bottle went way up. That's why every year, magicians lined up in droves hoping for a Phoenix contract.
The third reason—prestige—was more subjective. Some magicians cared about status as much as power.
"Usually, once you've signed, you're the one being summoned," Rias said, her tone serious. "So choose carefully. Once you're in, backing out isn't easy—and you're expected to do your part."
"If you settle for a low-tier contractor, people will question your standards. So pick someone who's truly worth it."
"For magicians, it's an extension of their research. For Devils—it's business. Balancing both sides is what makes a competent Devil."
Rias's lecture sparked quiet conversation among the girls, but Tenra just yawned and glanced over at Rufi.
"Rufi, you're a magician, right? How about you become my contractor?"
The room froze. After a moment of stunned silence, Rufi's eyes went wide.
"Eh?!"
"Y-you want me to be your contractor?!"
Tenra grinned at her flustered reaction. "What, is that a problem?"
"N-no, it's not that…"
"I… I…"
She was so overwhelmed she could barely get the words out.
Rias pressed her hand to her forehead, half amused and half exasperated. "Tenra, you're making this decision way too fast."
Tenra shrugged. "I hate dealing with complicated stuff, and I don't want to be constantly summoned by random magicians. Rufi's familiar, trustworthy, and I know she won't abuse the contract. Honestly, she's the perfect choice."
He ruffled Ophis's hair, smiling.
And he was right—Rufi was already part of the family, and everyone knew her character. She fit in seamlessly, and as a magician, she was talented enough to rival the Association's best.
Rias thought it over, then nodded. "If you're sure, Tenra, I agree. Rufi's a great choice."
Tenra turned to Rufi. "So, Rufi—would you like to be my contractor?"
"Just a heads-up, I know absolutely nothing about magic. If you sign with me, I can't help with your research. But if anyone ever bullies you, just summon me—I'll make sure they regret it."
He clenched his fist, looking fierce. The girls burst out laughing, and Rufi's face turned crimson.
"Y-yes! I'd love to, Tenra-sama!"
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