Chapter 194 - 2-3

Chapter 2

Sitting within his office, a man who goes by Azazel hums as he receives news on something that surprised him.

"So, the Devils took Vali with them, did they?"

As he said it, one of his loyal followers, Raynare, stood beside him, quietly listening to everything that was going on.

"Yes sir. From our resources, we've determined a young boy named Sakai Sitri procured her, after fighting off an Exorcist known as Ewald Cristaldi."

Azazel rubbed his chin in thought, while Raynare furrows her brows. "I see, that's an interesting development. Sakai Sitri…ooh yes, he's one of my favourite characters on Magical Levia-tan~ He got added two seasons ago~"

Raynare was surprised Azazel watched Devil shows. "Azazel-sama, does it mean with the Devils having Vali, would mean she's going to be executed? The Devils wouldn't take kindly to a Lucifer, would they?"

Azazel looked back at Raynare. "True, however I've heard some good things about Sakai-kun, he seems like a nice young man. I would love to study the supposed Longinus the girl has, I wonder if young Sakai-kun would be up for meeting with me?"

Raynare adopts a happy smile. "I'm sure if its you Azazel-sama, he'd want to come right away~"

Azazel admired her optimism. "Though he might not, we Fallen Angels don't have the best relationship with I know the higher ups would have something's to say about it, I think its best we try and make contact."

Raynare slowly nods. "If its just this boy, then it shouldn't be much of a problem. He's only a child."

"A child, that's related to a Maou." Azazel reminds the understanding Raynare. "In any case, lets contact them, and see what's going on."

Raynare nods, and begins to leave.

As she does, Azazel leans back in his chair, and thinks about Vali, and what a meeting between them would entail.

But first, he had to make sure they'd even be able to interact with one another.

One week later, in the Underworld, the sky looked to be a mixture of purples and blues, it was a sight to behold.

At the Sitri Castle, Vali was sat at her window, admiring the garden early in the morning.

Compared to her life before, this was a step up, and she liked the company, even if Serafall did kind of worry her whenever she asked for hugs, and cuddles, but she wasn't opposed to Sakai's hugs if she was honest with herself.

Though she'd not admit to that openly, she was intrigued by the boy.

He was strong, and kind, yet looked as if he enjoyed the thrill of a fight, someone she could get on board with.

"Haaaaah!" Vali heard a noise after it had gone seven.

So, sat at the window, she cast her eyes out, and saw Sakai being attacked by a group of Devils.

Her eyebrows narrow as they fling demonic power onto him, as he waves his hands out, creating large walls of ice, each tanking the attacks of the demonic power, each swirling dangerously towards the young boy.

He then brought his hands together, and summoned shards of ice all around him, pelting the enemies with dangerous amounts of ice, sending them flying away, smashing through trees, and into the ground.

But, Vali then saw more Devils circulating him, and closing the distance.

Tightening her hand as they continued rushing him, Vali shot out of the window, and bolts down to the ground at hyper speed, traversing the area within moments, managing to come face to face with the Devils.

"Back off." Vali unleashed a combo of punches and kicks, slamming each of the Devils away from Sakai.

"Aah, Vali-chan…" Sakai called out.

But Vali merely said "I've got this." and slammed her elbow into one of the Devils heads, their eyes bending at the immense strike, and sent them flying down into the ground, his body shaking from the impact.

"Its okay Vali-chan, really-"

"You protected me, now its my turn."

Sakai felt a warmth in his chest at her kind words, and grimaced as she slams her fist into one of the Devils faces.

Seeing her taking down the Devils, Sakai flies in, and creates ice between them, confusing the young girl.

"What's wrong?" Vali asks.

Sakai chuckled awkwardly, looking at the groaning guys scattered across the ground, seeing Vali having dispatched them swiftly, so his hand turned towards her, and allowed icy mist to flow from his fingertips.

"These guys…"

"Attacked you. I stopped them." She finished off, showing a certain strong look.

"You certainly did stop them." Sakai agreed, looking between the people. "Though, these are guards of Sitri…I asked them to train with me."

Vali looked at the downed individuals, and tilts her neck to the right hand side.

"Right, I see."

"Sorry for the confusion there Vali-chan, it probably looked like a genuine fight huh."

Vali agreed, folding her arms. "I guess. Is this the part where I'm supposed to apologize?"

Sakai chuckled awkwardly, waving his hand. "Its fine, I'll deal with it…But, you came to my defence huh? Thank you~"

Vali turned her face to the side, as if hiding her expression from him, he found it even cuter that she did such things, showing her Vali like mannerisms.

"Its fine, you've been doing things for me, I want to repay you."

Sakai chortled, and pulls in close, placing a hand on her shoulder, drawing her attention.

"No worries about repaying me, as long as you're happy, that's enough for me." Vali's face tinged slight pink as she saw his beaming smile aimed right at her. "Ooh right, breakfast should be done soon, your favourites being prepared~"

Vali's lips curl up ever so slightly.

Sakai had found out one of her favourite foods when she mentioned it off hand, and he had asked the chef's to specifically make it for her, which she found to be a nice gesture, and she definitely wasn't opposed to having something she enjoyed.

"That's good, after though I want a word with you, regarding my Sacred Gear."

Sakai nods. "Sure. I've just gotta go and sort out something's, then I'm all yours~ Until then, do whatever you like, I've asked a maid inside to take care of all your needs, so if you do need anything, ask her, she'll introduce herself soon~"

"Right…its odd." Vali mused.

Sakai raises a brow. "What is?"

"I'm not used to people taking care of me. Had to do it for a long time on my own. My Mom, she tried, but my father wasn't…I hate him for what he did to me and my mother."

Vali usually wouldn't share such things.

But Sakai's openness with her, made her feel relaxed.

As if she could show anything and he'd simply be there and be kind to her.

"I'm sorry about that Vali-chan. You don't have to tell me if it makes you feel sad, but do you know what happened to your Mom?" Sakai asked further, wishing to bring any comfort that he could do.

Vali shakes her head with a sigh, feeling comfortable enough to speak with him. "No, I don't know what happened to her. Last I saw her, was when I was…at my house, and we got separated. If its my father, then I can only draw conclusions on what he did. For my mother, who was good to me, I hope she didn't suffer."

Sakai felt for her, and his mind began to work, as his hand placed itself comfortingly on her shoulder.

He knew she wasn't the type to overly share her feelings, she wouldn't break down so easily.

Though he could see the pain etched into her eyes, so his comforting presence, to Vali, meant a good deal, so Sakai offered his silent kindness, being there right beside him.

"Also Vali-chan, we received word this morning from the Fallen Angels, about you."

Vali tilts her head. "Fallen Angels?"

"Yeah, they were keen on setting up a meeting. I was curious, do you know anyone in the Fallen Angels group?"

Vali shakes her head. "Never came across one in my life."

Sakai hummed. "How odd, they seem to know about you. I'm not sure how, so Sera-nee-chan and I are looking into it. The Fallen Angels said it was urgent to know your status. Though if it is Azazel-san, I have heard rumours he's a Sacred Gear expert."

Vali furrowed her brows. "Is that so?"

"Yup, some say he's even a fanatic about them. Though his knowledge would be good for you Vali-chan. If we can open a dialogue between our groups, how'd you feel about it? Would you be open to seeing the Fallen Angels?"

Vali hid a small smile that tried to come to her face.

It was clear Sakai wanted the best for Vali, and wanted her to feel as comfortable with any situation as possible, recalling when she first arrived in the Underworld, and how some Devils tried to say stuff to her, then recalled Sakai freezing them solid for making such comments.

"You think its beneficial?" Vali asks, trusting in his judgements.

Sakai shrugged. "Couldn't hurt at least."

Vali inclines. "Then let me know how it goes."

Sakai winked. "See you soon~"

Sakai waved, and left to go and do his duties.

Meeting up with Serafall, Sakai sat in on a meeting between her, and hologram Azazel.

Azazel looked to Sakai, and waved. "You must be Sakai Sitri-kun. Its a pleasure to meet you."

Serafall went into protective big sister mode, and held her little brother around his body, aiming a finger at Azazel.

"No Azazel-chan, don't be as bad as Gabriel."

Azazel nearly face faults. "A-Ah, no, of course…so, I'm sure it was a surprise we contacted you."

"To be honest, since our factions aren't friendly with each other, it was bold of you to do this." Serafall expressed earnestly.

"It was, and usually I'd not interfere. Though in this case, with Vali Lucifer, she's a unique girl, isn't she? I'm quite interested in Sacred Gears, and young Vali's been rumoured to have a Longinus. I'd love to meet her, and see what her potential is as a Lucifer wielding a Longinus."

Sakai inhaled. "I asked Vali-chan about it, and she said she'd be interested getting to know more about her Longinus. I've got some knowledge on them, but I'm sure you're more knowledgeable on them than I am. If she was hypothetically able to come and see you, I think really it would have to be on neutral territories."

Serafall looked at her little brother with pride. "Seems like you've been listening when I do my meetings Saka-chan, I was about to suggest the same thing~"

Azazel claps his hands. "Well, aren't you quite the intriguing Devil?"

Sakai chuckles lightly. "I am Onee-chan's sibling, and I wanna be a strong successful Devil, it also does involve bargaining and making deals from time to time."

Azazel folds his arms. "I'm glad to see the youth of the Devils are evolving in ways where even we could meet up with one another. Fallen Angels and Devils don't tend to be friendly with one another."

"I also get along with an Angel." Serafall's face dipped noticeably as Sakai gushes. "She's really pretty, kind, and we always have fun together~"

"That Angel, she's taking my Saka-chan..." Serafall added under her breath, Sakai looking at her, who giggled awkwardly.

Azazel was curious. "This Angel, are you speaking of Gabriel?"

"Yup, she's a fan of the show, and we get to talk a good deal~" Sakai happily replies.

Serafall grumbled "Gabriel..." with a sad sigh.

Sakai curiously looks at her for a moment, then turns back to Azazel. "So, we'll be in contact when we can meet up, with Vali-chan."

"Very well, we'll leave the ball in your court. Thank you for meeting with us, and I'll see you hopefully soon~"

With that, and after a little more conversation, the talks ended.

Serafall looked to her little brother and adopts a big grin. "Looks like he's been handled for the time being~ I was surprised that Fallen Angels would wanna meet Vali-chan, but it makes sense from Azazel-chan I suppose. Though he tries anything untoward with you Saka-chan, then I'm gonna freeze him solid~"

Sakai looks endearingly towards the young woman, and stretches his arms. "I'm glad for Vali-chan, being able to use her Sacred Gear to its fullest potential is going to be rather interesting, don't you think?"

"Yup, it'll give Vali-chan a good time. Though, I'm sure you'll do that too for her, wont you Saka-chan~? She'll love being adorned by you~" Serafall gushes, and hugs him tightly into her chest. "My adorable Saka-chan, I love you...but seriously don't go to Gabriel, she is a menace to Devil kind, especially to cute boys like you."

Sakai sweat dropped at his sisters words, though assumed they came from a place of love…at least he hoped.

Later on, Vali was training in the garden, practicing as hard as she could, when she felt a presence.

She looked, and saw Ravel approaching.

"Who are you?" Vali demands.

Ravel grimaces, and pulls back slightly. "P-Phenex, Ravel Phenex."

"And you want?" Vali carried on, she wasn't the most thrilled about being with Devils in general.

Ravel grimaced. "Well…S-Sakai-sama, is he here? I thought if he's not busy then maybe…I, I was gonna discuss with him something's, that's all…"

"He will be here eventually. So, what do you want with him?" Vali asked, her hand twitching.

Ravel waved her hands. "Sakai-sama, and I are friends! We're good friends, please don't worry about that!"

Vali carefully studied Ravel's face. "I understand. Do you fight?"

Ravel grimaced. "F-Fight?"

"Yes, you're a Phenex. You should be capable of fighting, correct? I'm waiting for Sakai to return, in the meantime you'll do as an opponent. Put up your hands, and summon the flames of the Phenex, and I'll show you my own powers too."

Ravel's heart dropped to her stomach, seeing Vali's demonic power shining.

"Hold on, fighting is…" Ravel giggled awkwardly. "I mean, I've trained my powers before, but a real fight…I mean, if I had to fight, of course I would…"

Vali raises an eyebrow. "I've seen Sakai fight, and if you're his friend, you should learn how to fight as well. He is someone that likes the thrill of a challenge. I have only known him for a week now, but I know he values strength, compassion, and a drive within someone. If you're his friend, you should have drive to grow strong."

Ravel took Vali's words to heart.

Being strong, gaining strength…

"Now, lets practice."

Ravel blinks "Huh?" as Vali arms herself with demonic power, and charges at the Phenex girl.

A little while later, Sakai arrived back home, and when getting to his garden, he saw a very strange sight.

"V-Vali-sama! Am I doing it right!?"

"Yes, I'll show you how to fight, first learn to dodge."

He witnessed Vali chasing Ravel around, firing demonic shots at her.

From what he could gather, it didn't seem like they were fighting, it seemed like they were training.

And from what he could hear, it sounded like Vali was encouraging Ravel to fight, and gain strength.

"Eeh, is everything, okay here?" Sakai asks.

Ravel looks to Sakai, and bolts behind him.

Vali follows, her hand igniting in demonic power, and aimed it forward.

Ravel breathed in hard. "S-She is rather strong…and it seems she loves the thrill of a fight…b-but, I did learn something's from her..."

Sakai nods, gazing at Vali. "That's Vali-chan~ I think its a cute quality, it shows she's got a fiery heart underneath her cool exterior, and shows that she's willing to fight, and kick some major ass~"

Vali adopts a small smirk, while Ravel pants. "I'm, I'm glad that you've found a good friend. Though, I've been hearing about those involved with Lucifer…"

Vali raised a brow. "What about it?"

Sakai waved his hand. "No worries, its just some Devils being idiotic. Sera-nee-chan and I have dealt with it." Vali accepted that, as Sakai winked. "Spoke with Azazel-san, we had an interesting conversation, and he said he'd love to study your Longinus. But the balls in your court, and you're free to do so if you wish~"

Vali slowly nods her head, and thanked him.

So she tightened her hand, aiming it at Sakai.

"I wish to test out my strength now that I've recuperated fully, I'm still studying my Longinus so I'll forgo that now. So how about we have a little fight?"

Sakai shrugs his shoulders. "Sure, I don't mind doing that. Anytime you're ready, Vali-chan."

Ravel giggled lightly, knowing that Sakai liked to have good matches, and challenges at the same time as being able to fight strong opponents, and she did like seeing him fight, so she pulled back, and got to a safe distance, readying herself for the match ahead.

Sakai got into a fighting stance, as did Vali.

"Unlike when we first met, I'm at one hundred percent, and now I'd like to see how you fight for myself."

Sakai chuckled happily. "I'm happy to if you're ready. Though, be prepared~"

Vali adopts a smirk. "Then, lets begin."

Vali and Sakai didn't waste time, and rushed one another, firing off their attacks instantly.

Vali spread her multiple sets of wings, and fired off at Sakai, so he formed a thick sheet of ice as a wall to defend himself from her.

Though, he witnessed her slam her fist forward, and smash it deep into the ice, at the same time Sakai saw her wings flutter as she fired some demonic power against it, but saw that the ice wall prevailed.

"Fascinating, so your walls even sturdy enough to hold back my demonic power. I'll have to pick it up a notch."

Vali summoned from the wellspring of her power, and unleashed a volley of demonic energy, bombarding his ice wall, and he had to admire her strength, but he wouldn't go down so easily either.

Vali closed the distance, and thought she had the chance to grab his body to unleash a point blank shot of her energy.

However, Sakai thrust his hand to the side, summoning a replica of his fist, only in ice form and five times the size of his regular fist, and then swung it out, smashing into Vali like a train, who coughed up bile from the impact, along with feeling cold spreading throughout her body.

Being propelled to the ground, Vali shivered as she wiped her mouth, seeing Sakai stick his other hand out, forming another ice fist, and got into a fighting stance, in turn the ice fists mimicked his movements.

"Hmm, I see. So you can control your ice to that extent. You even froze that man's holy energy, so I'm going to assume you can freeze my demonic power. I wonder what else you're able to freeze Sakai?"

"You could call me Saka, if you want~" Sakai winked, and then thrusts his hands down.

The ice fists followed, and smash into the earth, sending a large wave of debris from the ground at Vali, who in turn cups her hands together, and fires off orbs of demonic power, blasting right through the debris of the earth.

Sakai used his speed to shoot off, stacking ice shards behind him to increase his speed, and got towards Vali's right hand side, where his ice fist came down, a dark shadow eclipsing her body from the sheer size, which she guessed was twice her size.

Allowing demonic energy to flow through her hand, she punched up to meet the ice.

A shockwave rapidly flowed between them, the earth cracking underneath the pressure.

However, at the same time, she saw Sakai's ice was freezing her hand over. Even her demonic energy wasn't safe from the power Sakai was using, and was causing Vali's hand to tremble as she held the large fist of ice back.

"Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" She raised her power as much as possible, and released her own energy, shooting it right through the attack.

Though the shards of ice crumbled to the floor, and she thought victory was certain for that portion of the attack, Sakai's other hand suddenly wrapped its large icy fingers all around her body, and suspended her in the air.

"C-Crap…" Vali felt the ice immediately cause frost to grow over her body from the point of contact. It was so cold, Vali felt cold on her insides, as the frost grew across her form, threatening to seal her away completely in ice.

Ravel watched Sakai boxing with a Lucifer, and thought it was pretty impressive to see, Ravel saw even Vali was struggling to break herself free.

"I have no doubt once your Longinus is more capable of being used by you, you'll be a difficult opponent. Though, I remember the words of my Onee-chan, and how she taught me to fight."

Before Vali could break his icy hand, Sakai threw open the fist, letting Vali go, who was in turn surrounded in a sheen of white frost, chilling her down to the bone, and then pulled his fist back, sending it at Vali.

"Damn…" Vali reached out, and managed to stall the giant hand of ice, summoning her demonic power into a shield.

However, Vali managed to protect herself somewhat with a barrier, weakened the attack, something Sakai thought was smart of her to do, but it broke through, and he watched as she skids across the ground.

Managing to land safely, Vali felt joy despite the situation.

It was a feeling she rarely felt in her youth, but now she could feel it running through her veins.

She could feel her excitement reaching new heights as Sakai being her opponent, pushed her.

He was smart, tactical, and strong, a fighter she more than enjoyed fighting, someone that forced her to use both her mind and body to fight, to strive forward, and achieve a worthwhile victory, but even if she didn't win, she was having the best time.

"Spears!" Sakai announced, and his ice fist shattered into spears, launching them at the young girl in a flurry of strong attacks.

Vali grinned, and aimed her fingers out in pistol like formations, firing off many demonic shots that managed to begin breaking down the ice, matching one another blow for blow, Ravel watching on and was increasingly amazed by such a sight.

"Yes, this is what I desire, Saka!" Vali called out, Sakai realizing she called him 'Saka' rather than 'Sakai' even subconsciously, he was rather thrilled about it, and charged at the girl, coating his fists in ice, as she did in her demonic power.

"Come at me, Vali-chan!" Sakai sweeps his arms out, surrounding his area with thick sheets of ice, the ground freezing below him, as Vali unleashes a barrage of destructive attacks, so he unleashed his own.

The battle waged on for over half an hour, Vali had the time of her life.

Fighting, weaving through attacks, avoid being frozen to the core, she determined Sakai was an individual that she was going to have a lot of fun fighting against as they grew stronger, someone that would give her a truly epic fight that she couldn't fathom having with anyone else.

At the end of the fight, Sakai and Vali felt their chests rise and fall as they sat opposite one another, the battlefield having large holes, and ice coating the area, looking like a truly devastated battleground, or as Sakai would call it, the Sitri back garden.

Vali's body was surrounded in ice, while Sakai saw numerous demonic shots having created holes in the earth around him.

"Ooh dear, I'll have to fix this later on~" Sakai chuckled. "But, I really did enjoy the fight Vali-chan. Once you meet up with Azazel-san and he shares his knowledge of your Longinus, I'm sure you'll be a tougher fighter, living up to that miracle status~"

Vali lets out a quick breath, and rotates her shoulder left. "So, what was that little Phenex girl talking about before? She mentioned about my Lucifer status."

Sakai glanced at Ravel, who in turn waved, so he did the same thing, then turned back to Vali.

"Unfortunately, there does exist some pretty moronic Devils out there that would see you as a threat, or someone that would be a big asset. However, Onee-chan and I talked with them, and came to a solution about it. You don't have to do anything you don't wanna do. Don't worry, my Onee-chan is a Master at negotiations."

Vali lifts a brow. "The woman that fainted when you were hugged by an Angel…and said that the Angel was going to steal your purity? She's the one you say is a Master of negotiations?"

Sakai chuckled lightly, and could understand where she was coming from with her skepticism. "Sera-nee-chan can be eccentric, I'm not gonna lie. But she's good at what she does, she's the Maou in charge of foreign affairs, so she's used to dealing with top dog types. Though it seems Zekram Bael-san was interested in you, to be honest the guy gives me the creeps. He's always got this strange air about him, like you never know what's up his sleeve."

Vali slowly nods her head, and gets into thought.

"If I've put you in an awkward position-"

"You've not." Sakai said softly. "Besides, you're part Devil too, the Underworld is just as much your home as it is every other Devils. Some might be saying stupid crap about it, but if they've got complaints, then they'll have to talk to me first."

Vali internally couldn't help but feel good at his words.

She didn't show much herself on her face, but it was clear to Sakai that she felt a good deal deep inside of herself.

"You have your parents, don't you, Saka?"

"I do, they've got busy schedules, but we all do have times together, especially after what happened a few years ago…" Sakai began, curiously looking at the girl. "Do you think about yours?"

"Not my father, I never will think of him, beyond wanting him gone." Sakai nods in understanding. "My mother…I think about her, at times, she was good to me. Though that man, what he tried to do to my mother, I'll never forgive him. In fact, he, and my grandfather, one day shall perish."

Sakai reached over, and found her hand within his.

His touch, soothed her heart.

His presence calmed her mind.

His fingers stroking her hand flooded her with good feelings.

"I'm sorry about that, Vali-chan. Though, while you're with me, I know you're tough and strong, but I'll also be here to defend you too~"

Vali's lips rose ever so slightly. "I see, you're an interesting Devil, different to the others I've met before. But I find myself liking my time here. And I get to become stronger here. So its a good place to be."

Sakai kindly, "I'm glad Vali-chan~" as it only made Sakai more determined on what he had planned…

Later that night, Sakai was in his bedroom, casually going over a few things for Vali.

He was joined by Ravel, who was intrigued by what he was doing, and after he told her, she decided to lend a hand.

"I was thinking Sakai-sama, you know about what you said the other day."

Sakai raised a brow. "What's that?"

"About, you and me, you know, being together." Ravel urged.

Sakai understood. "Aah yeah, that's right. Have any thoughts about it?"

"I was just thinking, you want to become the Champion of the Rating Games, right?" Ravel inquired.

"Yeah, its always been a dream to be in the Rating Games. The thrill of a challenge, and the excitement of the crowd going wild as the fight picks up the pace, how we come at one another, and strike each other…the opponents I could have, it makes me feel excited too."

Ravel's lips break out into a big grin. "Its an interesting goal to have, Sakai-sama. In fact, that and your other goal you told me about, giving others a home…I think you've already started that, with Vali-sama. Even though she scares the living daylights out of me at times~"

Sakai snickers. "Underneath that cool exterior, beats the heart of a proud, and warm warrior. She might seem cold, but I've seen some instances where her warmth shines through, she's definitely someone who's got layers, its why I wanna do this good thing for her."

Ravel nods in understanding, and cracks her neck left. "Ooh, while I have you Sakai-sama. In the interest of potential peerages for you, I've been working on a little chart of sorts, and have been putting priorities on it, on what kind of talent would work with your powers, the kind of powers you'd be able to help grow, and even some potential people, if that's something you'd want."

Sakai was intrigued, more than intrigued.

He trusted Ravel's judgement, and knew she was a girl that had a good head on her shoulders.

"Sure, I'd love to see it~" Sakai said strongly.

Ravel's face tinges pink. "T-Then, allow me to compile all the data, and I'll send it to you!"

"Thanks, Ravel-chan. It means a lot to know you're supporting me. As I said before, fire and ice, we could make things happen~"

Ravel's eyes flicker, as her cheeks resemble rose flowers, cute and pink, fiddling with her fingers.

"Y-Yes…you're right, Sakai-sama~"

Sakai grins, lighting up Ravel's world.

Sakai's endearing nature always brought Ravel to happy places, even when she had a bad day, or when she felt in the need of being cheered up, it was good for her.

Later that night, Sakai saw the time was getting past ten in the evening, and he was soon joined by his elder sister Sona, who came in close, and looked over his shoulder.

"Vali-chan's…"

"Hey, Nee-chan~" Sakai greets, cutting her off. "I was just looking into something for Vali-chan."

"I see, have you found anything of what you're looking for?"

Sakai nods. "I don't wanna get Vali-chan's hopes up, I wanna see if I could help Vali-chan have some happiness. I've been speaking with her, and, her life has been pretty sad, so I wanna do what I can to help her too. She's gonna be meeting Azazel-san sometime soon, so it'll be quite interesting to see what happens."

Sona couldn't help the smile forming on her lips, and sat down beside him. "Pass me some papers then, let me give you a hand. I am your Onee-sama after all, and it seems this Vali-san is going to become important to you, so I'll do what I can."

Sakai beams, his arms throwing around Sona's neck energetically. "Aah, Sona-nee-chan, you're the best~"

Sona blushed with some embarrassment, as she hugged her little brother back.

Compared to Serafall, Sakai was more subdued whenever he hugged her, so she could tolerate it more.

"Its all good, Saka. I'm glad to be of help. Though, I couldn't help but notice that Ravel-san seemed to be eager before, is something going on? Has the Devils decided to put you in a wedding ceremony with her?"

Sakai blinks at that last one. "Not that I know of, though Ravel-chan as my bride huh…that'd be rather interesting. I'm sure we'd compliment one another."

Sona nods. "I see, then I'll have to prepare the tests."

Sakai raises a brow. "Tests, as in, what?"

"To make sure Ravel-san, or whoever, is good enough to be with you Saka."

Sakai teasingly poked her cheek. "Nee-chan, you're so cute when you're being protective~"

Sona blushes lightly, turning her neck. "Only the best for you, Saka. I wont accept anything else."

Sakai could hear the protectiveness in her voice, and found it sweet.

He knew though if he did find someone he loved, Sona wouldn't ever stop it, she probably would be the first to encourage it, as she was always supportive of everything he did.

"Though romance isn't something I've thought much about, but I do think marrying Gabriel-sama would be-"

"Saka-chaaaaaaaaaaaan!" Serafall burst into the room, and made a beeline for Sakai. "You can't marry Gabriel, she's got wickedness in her heart! Tell him So-tan! "

Sakai looked to Sona, who pulled back, holding her hands up, and looked off to the side awkwardly.

Sakai playfully rolled his eyes at Serafall's dramatic ways. "Honestly Nee-chan, you're being so wild."

"Ooh, its because I adore you~ Only the best for my Saka-chan~" Serafall fully embraced her little brother.

Two days later, Sakai had found a location within the Human World where they could meet the Fallen Angels.

Since it was neutral territory, Sakai thought it would be best.

Going with him, Vali, and Serafall sat at one side of the table in a cafe, and Azazel came to sit down at the other.

As soon as he saw Sakai, Azazel adopts a wide smile. "Aah, Sakai-kun, Serafall, Vali. Its finally great to meet you in person."

Sakai agreed, he thought it was a cool deal he'd see them like this. "Yeah, never thought I'd meet a Fallen Angel like this. Especially the leader."

Azazel nods, looking to Vali. "We were searching for you, originally. Someone from the Lucifer servants made contact, and asked to find you. But it seems you've found a good place on your own already."

Vali subtly looked to Sakai, who in turn gave her an endearing smile.

"Yes, that's right. Though, Saka mentioned that you have knowledge on Longinus's. He told me I wield one called Divine Dividing, and told me the basic powers of them. If you have more knowledge then I'd like to hear it."

As she asked that, Sakai knits his brows together. "By the way, that person from Lucifer, you talked about…"

"We haven't heard from them since." Azazel clarified. "I'm sure you can draw conclusions." Sakai nods, and looks to Vali, who in turn lowers her brows. "But, at least you're here, and thriving with Sakai-kun here. If you'd like, I can help you better understand your Longinus."

"Yes, I would like that. Though, I assume you wish for something in exchange."

Azazel hums. "Just a chance to study your Longinus up close would be good for me. That's what I'd want if I had the chance."

Sakai believed him immediately, Azazel seemed to have an honest expression.

"Very well, that's acceptable." Vali adds.

"Then let me compile some data for you, and I'll have it sent over. I've got some already, but there's been a bit of business going on within my group, some people being less than they can be, and choosing dark paths. But it wont stop me in my research!"

Sakai chuckles. "That's great Vali-chan, even if he's a bit eccentric, you'll learn a good deal from him~"

Azazel face faults, while Serafall giggles. "He's got you Azazel-chan~ Though, at least you're not trying to kidnap my Saka-chan, unlike that fiendish Gabriel. You know, she tried it not long ago, hugging him into her, trying to steal his purity…she really is a bad Angel."

Vali grimaces at how straight faced Serafall said that, whispering to Sakai "She really has it out for that Angel, doesn't she?" and Sakai chuckles unevenly "They've got a one sided rivalry, Gabriel-sama considers Nee-chan her best friend." only driving Vali's curiousness up even more.

"Aah well, at least this gave me a chance to meet you both. I've been an avid watcher of the show, and its interesting to see you both in real life~" Azazel said joyfully.

Serafall gasps happily. "I didn't know I'd have a Fallen Angel fan too~"

Azazel nods. "Yup, its a good show, and when you introduced Sakai-kun as your male lead, I thought it was an interesting contrast to you, and how well you bounce off one another~"

Vali and Sakai sat back, and listened to the pair discussing Serafall's show.

It seemed Sakai and Vali didn't have much to worry about, since Azazel seemed like a relaxed chill kind of guy.

Though towards the end of the meeting, Sakai heard his phone go off.

So he looked, and his eyes widen slightly.

"Sorry, I've gotta go."

Vali's brow raised inquisitively. "Something wrong?"

"Nothing, just got something I need to check up on, that's all. I'll see you later~"

Vali tilts her head, wondering what was going on.

A day later, Vali was sat within the Sitri gardens, casually looking out over the flowers that had been laid out.

Suddenly, she saw Sakai walking over towards her, and his lips curled into a kind smile.

"Hey, Vali-chan. Admiring the garden?"

Vali nods, and explains. "Usually it isn't something I'd bother doing, but some of these flowers remind me of the ones my mother would plant."

"I see...well, if you want, you can pick any you like, we've got plenty." Sakai offered.

Vali was touched by his gesture, and looked to the flowers.

As she did, an image of her mother popped into her mind.

Then an image of Sakai also entered her mind, as she turned her eyes back to him.

"By the time you got back from whatever you were doing yesterday, it was late. I was curious what you were up to."

"Honestly, I was trying to find something for you, after we talked about your Mom." Vali raises her head. "It took a little time, but I did find this."

Sakai snapped his fingers.

In a flash, a photo lands on his fingers, and passed it onto the young girl.

Vali looked over it, it was an image of her mother.

It was an image Vali thought she'd never see again.

Looking at her mothers black hair, and her kind smile, the smile she rarely got to see due to her father.

"I wished I could've found your Mom for you, but I searched, and even spoke privately with Azazel-san, and he said he didn't know either. However, I did find something's that belonged to your Mom, I've left them in your room to do as you like with them."

Vali wore surprise on her face.

But she felt happy at the same time, hearing how he was trying to help her out like this.

Gratitude worked its way onto her face, pulling closer on her chair.

"Thank you, Saka. Even with my mother...I'm glad I can see her picture like this, it means a lot to me."

Sakai showed an endearing smile. "No need to thank me, I'm glad I could give you something. So, I've heard you've been conversing with Azazel-san, how's it going so far?"

Vali looked at the picture of his mother, and then to Sakai himself.

She hadn't experienced someone being kind to her like this before.

"Not so bad, he's a bit eccentric, but he's got some knowledge. He asked me if I wanted to go and stay at the Grigori for a bit to train."

Sakai slowly nods. "What did you say?"

"It was a good offer. But, I've already decided to stay here with you, if you'll have me."

Sakai flashed his endearing smile, Vali in turn felt her heart skipping in her chest.

"Of course, you're always welcome here. Think of this as your home too."

Home…

It was a place Vali always thought was dipped in sadness.

But, this place felt good, was this a home Vali could come to enjoy?

She couldn't come to enjoy it, because she already was enjoying it, everyday she felt like was a new adventure.

Curling her lips, Vali stands up, and peers into his eyes.

"I'm feeling in the mood for a practice match. How about it?"

It was Vali's way of showing how she felt, and Sakai took it as a term of endearment.

So he stood, and summons shards of ice which began flying around his body.

"You're on, Vali-chan. Lets get stronger together."

Vali lifts her head up to meet his own. "I see, you're determined. Good, because today, I'm going to win."

Sakai wore a determined face, and nudged her arm. "Is that so huh? I've not shown you all of my techniques yet, I have also practiced with my Nee-chan who's the strongest female Devil, so there's some surprises I've got for you."

Vali adopts a battle ready expression. "Sounds good to me, now todays shall start with one me, you zero."

Sakai grins, and gets into a fighting position. "You're on Vali-chan. Now show me that Lucifer and Dragon power~! And I'll show you the power of my ice~!"

Vali breathed a sigh of happiness.

Though her life hadn't been the easiest.

Right here, right now, she could say that she felt content being with Sakai.

He was different to many people she had met.

But, she wouldn't change him for anything for the world, because for the first time she could remember, she could simply relax, and be content in the place she lived, thanks to her meeting Sakai Sitri.

Chapter 3

Light shined down onto a forest, the sun reaching its early morning peak as it rose in the sky.

The vibrant colours of a different assortment of greens and blues filled the senses.

Though for one young girl, she didn't have time to admire the scenery.

"Aaaaaaaaah!" She had managed to unleash her attack in a strong burst of lightning.

The sparks zapped the opponent that had attacked her, and caused his body to fall down to the ground, as the girl hunched over, and she felt her breath hitching in her throat, trying to catch said breath.

"She's that dark Angels child!"

"Lets finish her off before she can develop her full power!"

The girl frantically put a hand to her chest, letting in deep breaths through her lungs, moving in and out at a steady pace, looking at the downed enemy, and slightly bowed her head, before she took off running as fast as she could.

Shooting through the forest, running as fast as she could, a young girl managed to run for as long as she could, explosions setting off all around her, but she kept her head straight, and didn't stop for anything, even as fatigue began settling in.

Her legs felt tired.

Her eyes were heavy.

Her clothes had seen better days.

Yet she was able to run so quickly to live.

"Where did the child go?!"

"She couldn't have gotten far!"

The girl could hear the sounds of those chasing after her, coming from behind.

She couldn't stop.

She felt powers surrounding her, so she made a beeline for a quick escape route she could see.

With her granduncle chasing her, if she stopped for a moment, then she'd be finished off.

So instead, Akeno Himejima would keep going, no matter what…

Meanwhile, over a month had come and gone since Vali had come to the Sitri manor, and she was fitting in rather well. Becoming accustomed to the Underworld, and finding a good stride within the dynamics of the Sitri family, Sakai couldn't deny it was good to have her with them now.

Sakai was currently eating breakfast together with Sona, who was surprised when she heard what Sakai was doing.

"Meeting Azazel again. Should I be worried?" Sona was worried for her little brother.

"I'll be alright, I'll be with Nee-chan." Sakai assured her. "Also, how's the search for that person? Rias-chan was telling me yesterday that someone came into her territory and 'helped' a human close to a Devil of her family."

Sona shrugged. "As far as I know, they haven't had any joy."

"I see...well, after I see Azazel-san, maybe I could lend her a hand? You know I love a good mystery~"

Sona curls her lips in amusement. "Though whatever you do, be careful."

Sakai could hear the compassion in the young woman's words, and he extended a small smile in her direction.

"Nee-chan, you're so cute, worrying about me~ I'll be alright~"

Sona nods a single time. "That's good. Plus, you're doing a good service by keeping Onee-sama away...thank you."

Sakai snickered. "So, I'm taking these cuddle shots for the team then?"

"Basically, don't worry I'll compensate you for being so strong against Onee-sama's...scary cuddles."

Sakai felt amused by his sisters words, and simply enjoyed the little alone time they had with one another.

Later on, Sakai, and Vali were with Azazel together with Serafall (who mostly just came to hug Sakai tightly), meeting him to discuss about Vali's Longinus more, as Azazel had studied it, and was giving more details for Vali.

"Have you heard of Balance Breaker before?" Azazel asks the young girl.

Vali nods, looking to Sakai. "He told me about it, how they can come from a change in emotions and achieving a greater power. Its currently what I am aiming for."

"Indeed, its a good idea, the Balance Breaker for the Divine Dividing is an armour, increasing your natural abilities. At least that's one way you can have it. Sub-species do exist, and can take on unique characteristics due to the user."

Sakai hums. "How fascinating. I'd love to study them up close~"

Azazel rubs his chin. "If that's the case, I'd love for you both to come and see the Grigori. With our current factions, I could see why that might be difficult."

Sakai would love to see the Grigori as well. "It would be up to Nee-chan."

Serafall pursed her lips. "Grigori huh...? Well, it might be difficult, but I can't say no to my cute Saka-chan~ I'll sort it out at some point~"

Azazel took that as a good victory.

Sakai showed an amused smile for his elder sister, but then, he saw Azazel looking at his phone with a somewhat serious expression. "Is something wrong Azazel-san?"

"It seems someone I was tracking has entered Devils territory. Not exactly the easiest for me to enter."

Serafall purses her lips. "What're you looking into? If I might ask."

Serafall's professionalism shines through in that moment, Sakai proudly looking at his elder sister.

Though she was goofy at times, she was also a Maou, and knew when to take things seriously, and how to handle it.

"There was an incident with a human Shinto family sometime back." Azazel begins.

Sakai became interested. "What happened?"

"The wife of a fellow Fallen Angel, was killed. She was from a renowned clan within the human world. The Himejima's."

Sakai blinks. "From Himejima…"

"You've heard of it then?" Azazel guessed, sensing a familiarity with the name dripping from Sakai's lips.

"Yeah, they are apart of the Five Principal Clans in Japan, aren't they?"

Azazel was glad to see the knowledge Sakai had. "Yes, you're right. You probably understand then, the girl is a Half Fallen Angel, and they didn't take too kindly to that. In fact, her death was determined by them, as was her mothers."

Sakai felt his heart drop. "How horrible. So she's being hunted…just for existing."

"However, she did manage to get away. She's been on the run ever since, and I know the Himejima's are going to be hot on her tail-"

"Where did she go exactly? Do you have the coordinates?" Sakai asks, cutting the Fallen Angel off, as he felt a strong sense of wanting to make sure this girl was safe and well, he could relate to how she was feeling right now.

"Yes, its here." Azazel whipped out his phone, presenting it to him, impressed to see such resolve in someone so young.

Sakai observed it for a few moments, and then hummed.

"Yes, I know that territory. It belongs to the Gremory family, Rias-chan mentioned someone yesterday popping up."

Azazel raises an intrigued look. "So you're familiar with that clan?"

"Yeah, I'm currently engaged to Rias-chan, I'm sure my fiancee would help me~"

Serafall coughed violently at how nonchalantly he said that. "WHAT!?"

Sakai belly laughed. "I'm sorry Nee-chan, I couldn't resist~"

Serafall took in a deep breath. "Don't scare Nee-chan like that, I thought I'd have to speak with Rias-chan, and make sure things went over smoothly. Even if you have to wed, it has to be someone Nee-chan thinks is good too~ So sorry Gabriel~"

Sakai could feel the passion in his elder sisters voice, and the desire to keep him safe, and sound.

Sakai thought back to Akeno, and could feel for the girl.

Recalling his own past when he was hunted, attacked, it only made him all the more determined to see if he could do anything.

"I'll speak with Rias-chan, and see if she's anywhere close to knowing where she is. If that fails, I'll contact Himejima itself. They're also trespassing on Devil territory. Rias-chan would also be on my side during this, I know she'd not stand for it either."

Azazel hums in thought. "The way you speak with passion, can you relate-"

"Azazel-chan." Serafall spoke up, cutting him off. "Saka-chan doesn't have to think about that event in the past, okay?"

Azazel grimaced at the serious look Serafall was giving him.

"Sure. Anyway, if Akeno was in a secure place…if she went to Devils such as yourself, I know her fathers heart would be at ease, and you'd be able to give her a good home situation, so I'd not worry about her either. I have a contact for Himejima, I'll send it over to you."

Sakai nods his head, glancing at Vali.

"Vali-chan, seems we might be fighting some human clan members-"

As soon as he said it, Vali looks intrigued. "Are they strong?"

Sakai nods with enthusiasm. "I'd say they're strong for humans. I've heard the Himejima's can wield some spiritual fire. Heard it can be dangerous."

"Still, a challenge is a challenge. Might be good." Vali determines.

Sakai looks to Azazel, and shows a smile. "Leave it with us, we'll take care of this girl."

Azazel gives encouraging eyes. "I'll send all I know about her last whereabouts, and maybe it'll help you find her, should your friend not be able to locate her right now. In either case, I'm sorry to ask this of you."

Sakai shakes his head. "Don't worry, someone needs help, so we've gotta do what we can, right?"

Sakai's determination grew within him, as he pulled forward.

Vali stayed beside him, and soon left together.

Arriving at the Gremory estate and splitting off from Serafall who had some duties to attend too, Sakai managed to get inside without worry, since he was allowed to come and went at his leisure, the same for Rias at his place, and stepped inside of the tea room, together with Vali beside him.

A young cute red haired girl sat drinking some tea.

"Aah, Sakai-kun, and Vali-san. What a surprise." She was elegant as she was sweet, Sakai thought she was quite a kind girl.

"Hey Rias-chan, we've just come back from time with Azazel-san, and we've got something's to talk about. It seems the person who was interacting with your family indirectly, might be involved with this..."

Rias was intrigued, so invited him to sit down.

Sakai began explaining what was going on, and about Akeno, and how it related to Rias as well.

Rias listened quietly, and hums in thought.

"I see, so its the Himejima from Japan, is it?"

"Yeah, she's the one in your territory. Have you got any info on her? I know she got indirectly involved with someone from your clan, so I was thinking maybe something else has turned up?"

Rias lets out a breath. "We haven't found her yet, she is a tricky one for sure to be able to get through our territory without being spotted. Though we have come across a few humans lately, and they've been a little more than unwilling to speak with us beyond saying they'll not cause the Devils issues, they didn't even tell us who they were, apart from being aware of the supernatural."

"Can you tell me the known locations of the girl? If we can combine that with the data I got from Azazel-san, we might be able to find her."

Rias managed to get all of the information, including known locations.

Sakai brought out what Azazel sent them, and began looking over the map of the area.

Vali was impressed to see Sakai's mind at work, he was able to pinpoint locations she would've passed through based on little information, she wondered if he had done a similar method when he was finding her.

Sakai hums, and after about two minutes, Sakai circles three places on the map.

"Judging on the last known location, and Azazel-sans data, along with how the Himejima clan are moving, its safe to say they can track this girl, but because of that, they're also making themselves known. And from the location you had yesterday, realistically she'd have to be at one of these places, depending on which way she's moving. If we could find the Himejima again, then we'd know for certain."

Rias was quite impressed with his deductions, and she was inclined to believe him.

She also knew Sona would drill a good education into Sakai, believing in his intellect, and now Rias was seeing it up this close, she wished to work hard as well to pull out her achievements.

"I'll see if we can find the Himejima. Though even if we rescue this girl, what do we do about Himejima Clan?" Rias asks.

Sakai hummed in thought.

He waited a few moments to make a good decision within his mind, and then inclines his neck.

"You're right, we do have to confront them."

Rias inclined in agreement. "Though, will they listen?"

"If they wont listen, then we'll have to speak a little louder until they do." Sakai spoke with conviction.

Vali smirked, understanding his meaning. "Knock some sense into them."

Sakai nods. "Basically. I'd rather not start conflict, but this girl shouldn't be attacked because of how she was born. You're probably someone who can relate, right Vali-chan?"

Vali agreed. "Sounds like my father, these Himejima. Unbending, disgusting, and will do anything to harm something they view as a threat, even if it is a child. Now I wish to fight them Saka."

Sakai smiled softly. "I'll be sure to let you have the first strike."

Vali looked satisfied for the time being.

Rias was quite in awe at their fun dynamic.

Hours fly on by, and they continue delving into some sightings they could find, thanks to Rias giving them all the info from their territory, as Sakai got ready to deal with the Himejima, quickly going through the notes from Azazel.

He even thought about making a call to them, and had found a way to do so.

So while Rias gathered information, Sakai went to a private room, and contacted them, hoping they'd be able to accomplish this without a fight.

He waited for a minute, and nothing happened.

But he was then surprised what came in view via a hologram with a young woman, with long hair, looking to be a few years older than he was.

"Hello? Who is this?" The young girl asks with suspicious eyes.

Sakai cleared his throat. "Hello, I'm sorry for the impromptu call like this, but this matter is of the utmost urgency. I'm looking for the head of the clan Himejima, I need to discuss a girl named Akeno Himejima. I got this from a trusted friend. Ooh, how rude of me, my name is Sakai Sitri."

"Sitri…that's a Devils name, isn't it?" Sakai confirms it with a nod. "How do you know Akeno?"

"I don't exactly, but she's come into my friends territory, and we know the Himejima have as well. We tried sending Devils to meet with them, but they're evading us."

"I'm terribly sorry about that." The girl said with regret. "While I'm not currently the head of the clan, I am next in line. The current head is a man named Suou Himejima, he's…he's after Akeno, due to her blood. Even though he's entered your friends territory, he is a man that wont stop."

Sakai nods slowly. "Would he continue, if it meant having Maou's sent after him?"

The young woman paused, and furrows her brow. "I think that if he was confronted with that, he'd be willing to cooperate more. He might be not so forward thinking, he would recognize the power of the Maou. Are you able to contact them?"

"I am, my Onee-chan is a Maou, Leviathan."

The young woman wore surprise on her face. "R-Right, I see. Yes, Sitri does house the current Leviathan… That's pretty good…I'm sorry, we've had this conversation and I haven't said my name. My names Suzaku Himejima, Akeno is my cousin."

Sakai was glad he got to know her name, though when hearing her name, he did look surprised.

"You inherited the Vermillion Bird, didn't you?" Sakai spoke up, expressing astonishment.

Suzaku nods. "How'd you know?"

"I've been doing some reading, hoping to come to a conclusion without fighting, and your name came up. Wow, meeting the current holder of the Vermillion Bird, I'm actually feeling quite blessed despite being a Devil~"

Suzaku giggled a little bit, finding his energy quite infectious. "Can I ask, why do you want to find Akeno? Do you have a grudge against her being in your friends territory?"

Sakai shakes his head. "Nothing like that, I just wished to help this girl. Hearing her story, I thought it was unusually cruel for them to gun for her like they did, and not only take her mother from her, but also wish to take her life…"

Suzaku studied his face, and could see genuine anger at such a situation.

She read that as passion for Akeno not to suffer.

Suzaku sucked in deeply, and let out a large breath. "I'm torn, because I want to help Akeno myself. But in my current position, I wouldn't be able to reach them."

Sakai could understand her frustrations. "I wish I could magically convince you of what my intentions are. Right now, all I can is, I don't want this girl to have to suffer anymore than she already has done."

Suzaku wondered about his life, but she felt like he was being sincere.

So she nods strongly. "Can I ask how did you find the way to contact me?"

"A man named Azazel-san gave me the details, I thought it would be a long shot…" Sakai said honestly.

When mentioning Azazel, Suzaku became quiet for a few moments, deep in thought.

But then she nods as if confirming something inside of herself. "Okay, if it came from Azazel-san, then I'll have to ask you to please take care of her. While we've only worked together a little, he did help someone I know, so I think this'll be good."

Sakai wondered more about that, but was thankful all the same.

"Thanks…erm, is there anything I could maybe pass on to her? Like something of hers, her families, or a message you have for her?"

"I currently don't have anything of hers or her mothers, unfortunately Granduncle handled that, and I don't know what he did with those things…"

"So, she doesn't have even a momento…well, we'll see about that." Sakai mused.

Suzaku recalls something, and holds up a finger "One second, I have something for you." and vanishes from the hologram.

Sakai waits for a few moments, wondering where she was going.

Then she came back, and showed him an item.

"This comes from me directly. I think if you use this, she'll understand I'm also supporting you. I wish I could also come, but I'm currently involved in a situation where I can't leave. For Akeno though, I want to do something, anything to help her…"

Sakai saw her send it, once Sakai gave her the connection to teleport to his place directly.

"I know we just met, and I'm probably not what you had in mind when thinking about saving your cousin. But I promise I'm going to save her. You have my word."

Suzaku didn't think a situation like this would come about.

But, she felt happy, knowing that if this was the real Sakai in front of her, then she believed she could trust in him.

Suzaku bows her head. "Thank you. Also, my Granduncle…I know what he's done and is doing is terrible, but I also don't want to cause problems for your side either, and my Granduncle… What he's done is unforgivable, but I'd not want Akeno to suffer anymore…"

Sakai could understand the position Suzaku was in, Suou even if he was a horrible human being, he was still someone important for their clan, the Five Principal Clans as a whole, and could cause disarray in the clan and have others target Akeno, among other things, but she also wished for Akeno's safety while not causing issues for people trying to help Akeno, he couldn't fathom how hard it was for her to try and walk both lines, and do her best to secure the people she cared for.

Sakai nods his head. "I understand, I'll do what's necessary to stop him, nothing more, and I'll also have him agree to leave Akeno-san alone, and anyone else that might be against her."

Suzaku felt comforted at his words. "When I take over the clan, I'm going to right the wrongs he's done, that includes Akeno, and others."

"Sounds like you'll be a good leader. Until then, we'll keep Akeno-san safe." Sakai took what Suzaku gave him, putting it in his pocket, and went to speak further, when Rias came in.

"Sorry for interrupting, we just received word Himejima passed through a town, heading south."

Sakai looks to Suzaku, who whispered "Please, keep her safe." and Sakai nods a single time.

He then cuts communication, and turns to Rias. "Lets see where it is, then lets go and get this girl."

Rias nods, and they got to work.

Sakai, Vali, and Rias eventually arrive in a forest, a place Sakai thought the young girl would be.

They contacted the Maou, Serafall and Sirzechs specifically, and they'd be arriving pretty soon so they could sort it out, once finished with their pressing duties.

Sakai looked around at the densely populated woodland, and scrunches his brow.

"So, if I'm right, she should be around here somewhere. Based on all the available data…"

Sakai began looking around, as did Vali.

Rias stayed close by Sakai, something Sakai had asked since he didn't want Rias to be hurt, and on the promise from Sirzechs to look after his precious sister, something he'd never break, respecting the Maou, even if he was eccentric.

He also knew Vali would be okay a little ways away, so they split into two separate parties, so they could find her.

"If you find her Vali-chan, let us know, and we'll do the same."

"And if any Himejima shows up, let me know."

Sakai chuckled. "Surely will."

Vali nods, and takes off walking to the left.

So Sakai and Rias took the right hand side.

Moving through the woods together, Sakai kept his eyes sharp, Rias doing the same thing.

"I was thinking about the life this girl would've had." Rias begins, gaining Sakai's attention. "From what you've told me, I can't stop thinking how the Himejima handled this…to kill her mother, and come for her, it makes me feel disturbed."

Sakai agreed with what she was saying. "Yeah, its a difficult life for sure. But we can make her life better now, whatever she wants to do, even if Suou tries to get involved, I'll stop him."

Rias inclines her neck, looking left and right. "Akeno, I hope we find her soon…"

Sakai could see the compassion in Rias's eyes, even as a Gremory who were known to be affectionate, he thought Rias was someone who truly did have a good heart and didn't hesitate to help, even knowing of Akeno's status as a half Fallen Angel.

Seconds flow by, and they didn't turn up anything.

Rias wondered if they had maybe not picked the right place.

Sakai stayed silent, pulling forward, and kept his eyes peeled.

Then, when they moved near an old building that looked like a half broken shack, Sakai saw an outburst of lightning come from the inside of the darkened cabin, so his hand goes up, and summons a wall of thick ice.

"I assume we've found her." Sakai murmurs, as the lightning blasts into the ice.

Though leaving a dent, it wasn't able to get through.

Sakai quickly sent a message to Vali so she could know they've found her, as more bolts of electric came out.

Sakia's ice was capable of blocking the shots, though Sakai mentally praised Akeno, seeing she was going for a single point, so her bolts would cause the most damage to that spot, and have the ice fully crumble down to the ground, and while not fully working, it was a sound strategy.

"W-What do you Devils want?" A girly voice called out.

Her voice was shaky, and unconfident after seeing her lightning hadn't gotten through.

"We haven't come to harm you." Sakai expressed kindly.

"Yes, we're here to help you." Rias adds.

But Akeno didn't believe it, she had spent her life being told Devils were beings that could bring chaos and destruction, so another bolt of lightning came releasing from her fingertips.

However, the shield of ice was able to keep the lightning back, surprising Akeno.

Seeing her attacks not getting through, Akeno takes a step to the doorway of the cabin, looking towards Sakai and Rias, noting Sakai's shiny blue eyes, and his soft looking raven black hair, and Rias's own red hair, wondering what was going on with them.

"I didn't mean to help that human connected to your group. I'll leave, just please let me go." Akeno's words were a little heart-aching to both Sakai and Rias.

Sakai steps forward, fishing into his pocket. "Akeno-san, my name is Sakai Sitri, I'm not your enemy. In fact, I have something that'll help prove that I'm not the enemy, but I'd have to give it to you directly. May I do so?"

Akeno furrows her brows, deeply getting into thought, and wasn't sure.

So Sakai had an idea, and formed a little icy bird, and had it carry over to Akeno, putting it down on the ground.

Akeno looked over it, seeing it was a piece of paper.

She didn't get it at first, why there was a piece of paper.

But then she saw a symbol on the front, it was that of the Himejima.

More than that, it was the symbol of her cousin, Suzaku.

She rushed towards it, and took the paper between her fingers.

Using her power, she caused it to light up, and moments later, it revealed Suzaku.

"S-Suzaku! Its really you! I, I never thought I'd see you again…!" Akeno became emotional, and rubbed under her eyes joyfully.

Suzaku let out a relieved breath. "Akeno…he kept his word after all. Yes, its me. I'm so sorry I can't be there directly, I wanted to come, but with everything going on…I wasn't able to follow after you. But that boy Sakai Sitri contacted me, and I believe he does want to help you."

Akeno half wondered if it was a trick.

But she soon saw evidence that it wasn't as when she spoke with Suzaku, she was saying things only Suzaku would know.

As they talked, Vali came flying over, and lands beside Sakai.

"I was getting worried Vali-chan, you alright?"

"I was heading back, and tracked onto some people approaching. They've got the same symbol as the Himejima."

Akeno's heart drops, and she begins trying to run.

"Wait, please!" Rias called.

But Akeno kept going.

"Don't worry Akeno-san, we'll protect you. You don't have to run anymore." Sakai called as well.

Akeno paused, looking back to see both Rias and Sakai showing kind gentle smiles.

Akeno went to move, when she saw the mountain ascetics of the Himejima's descending onto them.

Then she saw a lone man, wielding a staff, dressed in traditional robes of their clan, and his clear intentions on his face.

The old man aimed his staff at Akeno, and spoke "You summon Devils to your defence?" in discontent.

Sakai puts himself between Akeno and the old man, not budging an inch.

"No she didn't summon us, but this territory belongs to the Gremory family, my friend here." Rias showed herself, the old man looking at her questioningly. "We've tried contacting you, but you've been giving radio silence despite coming onto this land, and the only thing said is that this is a matter for your people, and you'd not be involved with the Devils of this region."

"Correct, and we have kept that word." The old man spoke harshly.

"Perhaps, but this girl, what are you planning to do?" Rias asks this time, wanting to hear it directly.

"We plan to kill her." Suou said with a stern face.

Sakai scowls. "Sorry, but that's not happening."

The old man scowled. "You have no involvement in this matter, boy."

"You made it our business when you came onto this land. While we don't want conflict, that girl is under our protection. Work with us, and we'll come to a solution that'll satisfy both sides. However, this is Gremory land, we will defend anyone here if you a move, including Akeno-san."

Akeno was astonished to hear the Devils would be protecting her.

She never thought in her life that would be the case.

The mountain ascetics didn't like the sound of that, and began rushing Sakai, yelling "You brat!" and "Damn Devil!" but Vali who had become annoyed at their ways, and swiftly sent out shockwaves of demonic power.

The mountain ascetics attempted to block with their barriers, but Vali's demonic waves were strong, and powerful enough to shatter their barriers, repelling them down onto the ground, Sakai slowly nodding at Vali's swift handling of that situation.

The old man walks forward, his scowl growing. "Strong children. But you're still children. Do not involve yourselves in the topics of adults. Now stand aside, and I'll swiftly deal with that girl, and you wont see us again."

"And if I say no?" Sakai asks keenly.

The man's eyes narrow with rage. "Then I'll force you."

The old man raises his staff, and a spark of flames emerges, soon turning into a column that burned into the sky.

He then directed his staff at Sakai.

Akeno screamed "DON'T!" as the flames washed over Sakai and Rias.

She looked on with saddened eyes, feeling her heart being clenched.

The people that had helped her with seeing Suzaku, were wiped out before her eyes…

But when the flames died down, she saw Sakai and Rias stood there, without a scratch on them, encased their front with a shield of thick ice, with only some of it melting, but the majority staying strong.

"Alright then, seems we're fighting." Sakai turns to Rias. "I'll handle him, protect Akeno-san."

"Yeah. Be careful, or Sona and Serafall-sama might come and kill me." Rias joked.

Sakai chuckled. "Don't worry, I'll be fine."

Rias nods, and goes to Akeno's side to help her.

Sakai steps forward, as Vali flies to his side. "I'll keep those others off you, the old man seems to be the strongest. Though I do wish to fight him, I also wish to see a clash of fire and ice, I think it would be good to see. Just make sure you kick his ass."

Sakai winked. "I shan't disappoint you Vali-chan."

Sakai walks to the old man, who takes steps forward.

Some tried rushing Sakai, but Vali kept to her word, and came crashing down with her fists, and demonic power, sending the mountain ascetics flying with her combos, because of their strength, she didn't need her Longinus, but she was having fun all the same.

Sakai himself strongly flowed his ice all around him, whipping up a vortex of shards of ice, causing the surrounding area to become chilled, frost growing on the trees, and ground, the grass freezing beneath his feet, and the sky looking as if clouds were forming, snow falling.

The old man takes a few steps forward, and summons his flames. The spiritual flames of the Himejima family, they were hotter than normal fire, Sakai could feel the heat, but the old man could also feel the cold of Sakai's powers, showcasing his raw potential.

"You do have a good flow of power. However, you are a mere child. I shall give you one warning. Move, or I shall burn you to a crisp. Even if you're a Devil, that girl shall not exist. She is a disgusting, vile creature being in the Himejima lineage…"

Akeno's eyes lower to the ground as her granduncle insulted her.

Sakai clenched his teeth, his fists balled tightly together, his ice became so violently thrashing around him that he unconsciously whipped up a snowstorm from above.

Even though it was still summer in the human world, snow fell to the ground in buckets, Sakai was rewriting the weather with his power.

Suou gasped, seeing his flames beginning to quell underneath the violent snow, his ice looking sharp and deadly, as the chunks of ice he summoned, hardened into deadly spears.

"She is a young girl, and you're cursing her for existing? Who gave you the right?! She has a right to exist like you or I do! If you come for her, then you answer to me!"

Suou gasped as he saw all of his flames instantly freeze from an outburst of ice erupting from his body. Suou nearly froze himself, and had to sacrifice part of his leg when he tried to dodge, as his flames were being nullified by the ice.

Suou pulled back, seeing the ice having froze his leg, then shattered, causing his leg to produce a large wounds, frostbite lingering on his flesh, feeling cold on the inside of his body, so he burst his flames all around him in an attempt to warm himself up.

Vali, as she punched a mountain ascetic, smirked, whispering "Now you've angered him, good luck old man, you're going to need it." as she had grown to know Sakai quite well, and knew he wouldn't stand for anyone attacking a child, either physically, or verbally.

Akeno felt her heart squeeze.

Someone standing up for her…

She hadn't witnessed it since her mother.

A tear came to the girls eye, while Rias smiled kindly.

"That boys the gentlest of Devils, yet to enemies, can be the scariest. Because he also suffered when he was younger, when he sees suffering like this, he wishes to protect those, so they don't have to go through anymore." Rias turned to Akeno with a kind smile. "Don't worry about him, he'll be okay."

Akeno was stunned to hear the faith she had in him.

But, hearing him defend her, felt good.

"Lets do this!"

Sakai cups his hands together, and thrusts them forward, unleashing a blizzard of ice at the enemy in the form of a torrent, almost looking like a pillar of strong shards of ice, that was causing the surrounding area to freeze, a veil of ice encased around Sakai, Akeno thought he looked rather tranquil in such a beautiful looking power.

"Yes, lets."

Suou ignites his flames, and sends out a volley of flaming pillars at Sakai's own, igniting the trees around him on fire, coating himself in flame, and despite being human, Akeno saw him almost looking like a demon from scary fairytales.

Clashing violently in the middle the frost and flame battled against on another for dominance.

The ice was freezing the flames, but the flames also broke down and melted the ice.

Suou was stunned to see a child's power being able to match his own.

But then became shocked as Sakai raised his arm, and threw it down, causing all of the ice spears he made to come suddenly bombarding towards him, and because of the blizzard of ice, his flames were dulled, so the spears cut through his flaming attack as if they weren't there.

"Shi-" He couldn't get out in time, and one spear slices across his arm, another embedding into his left thigh. "Aaaaah!"

Using teleportation magic as he melts the ice, and secures his wound, he vanishes before the others managed to get him.

He emerged behind Sakai, his staff engulfed in flames, and swung it down to beat him down.

Akeno gasped, but Sakai turned and encased his hand in ice, grabbing the flaming staff, where the ice began freezing the flames, surprising the old man.

"You are indeed strong, but do not underestimate me." Suou rips his staff away from Sakai, and thrusts it to the sky, where flaming balls gather, getting intensely stronger, and stronger, the snow beginning to melt under the flames.

So Sakai raises his own power, flurries of ice dance all around him, as he thrusts his hand to the sky, summoning pillars of ice, harshly piercing into the flaming spheres, and Suou watched as they began to freeze.

"No!" Suou tapped his staff on the ground, gathering flame all around it, and swung it at Sakai, releasing a thin wave of deadly flame meant to cut into his body.

Sakai avoids, though the flames graze his right cheek, drawing some blood, as Suou gets in close with a teleportation spell, and swings multiple times at the boy, increasing his fire to try and burn him badly.

But Sakai weaved through the attacks, dodging and parrying them all, surprising Suou, then when Suou raised his arm to give another attack, Sakai saw an opening, and got low, his hands pushing on the ground, his hips raising up, and his foot smashing deep into Suou's upper body.

"Gwah!" Blood ejects out of the old man's mouth, as he's sent flying backwards.

He smashes into a tree, falling down to the ground.

Because his body was human, being attacked like that by a Devil with enhanced strength that caused his world to shake, bones cracking, and his body feeling weak.

His shaky eyes saw Sakai walking closer, ice circulating him in a beautiful dance of white.

"I'll give you this, you are strong. However, I wont allow you to beat me." Suou was sure in his words, and allowed his staff to go into the sky, whipping his staff around to gather flames, feeling pain from the blow on his body, his vision blurring.

However, while he was doing that, Sakai cups his fingers together, summoning a disc of ice.

Throwing the ice disc with such force that it cut through the air and trees rapidly, Suou was left gasping at Sakai's movements, as the disc of ice sliced right through his staff, and dug into his right hand side.

"Aaah!" Suou felt the pain from the attack, as Sakai got in close.

Sakai used this chance to swiftly strike him.

He tried defending with his staff, but Sakai created a large spike of ice on his foot, piercing the staff, then causing it to shatter, propelling Suou back.

Panting hard, he attempted to summon flames, but saw Sakai stamp on the ground, sending stalagmites of ice at the wounded old man.

"No!" Suou went to fire off his attack, but the ice already reached him.

In an attempt to save himself, he waved down his hand with the flames coming down, but Sakai shot a few ice shards at the flames, nullifying them.

Akeno was shocked when she saw Sakai's ice wrap all around Suou's legs, and upper body, freezing his arms in place, spreading up his chest, and stopping just at his neck, Suou's eyes widening as Sakai got before him.

"Now its time to stop, call your people off." Sakai said, his hand going out, icy dust releasing from his hand, fear growing in the old man's eyes. "That girl doesn't deserve to die, neither did her mother, and you're gonna stop going for her. Because one way or another, she is going to be free of you today. Make the right choice."

Sakai didn't like this man before him, in fact the more he spoke, the more he hated him.

Though, he remembered his words to Suzaku, he had stopped Suou without taking him out.

If he tried going for Akeno however, then he'd do so.

Sakai's words brought dread to Suou's heart.

Suou felt his heart slam into his chest, sweat gathering on his brow, watching as Sakai had gained the victory.

Vali too had also downed a good few of his men and women, knowing he didn't have a chance now.

Suou bowed his head in defeat, knowing he couldn't carry on.

"…Very well." He looked at his people. "The Devil children have won, we will listen to them, no resistances."

Akeno was astonished, she didn't think she'd see something like happen.

But she couldn't help think this was truly something that surpassed all expectations she'd have.

"Now we'll wait until Serafall Leviathan comes, because we have things to discuss."

Suou's eyes drag to fear. "L-Leviathan?"

"She's my Onee-chan." Sakai revealed, and Suou's world shattered at that moment, knowing he had truly screwed up.

A little over two minutes later, Serafall arrives, and when she sees the cut on Sakai's face, her eyes sharpen, and hugged her brothers head into her chest.

"Saka-chan, who was it that cut you? Was it Gabriel?! I told you she's a menace!"

Sakai sweat dropped. "No, it was that man over there, Suou Himejima."

Serafall's scary eyes fired at the encased Suou, who sweated profusely, his face falling considerably, his body fully shaking, seeing the power radiating from Serafall.

The entire forest became minus zero, freezing instantly, showing her angry she was, Serafall's aura truly looked as if it was going to be unleashed on Suou.

Attacking her little brother, was unforgivable.

Sakai took her hand, and held it gently. "I also think he's deplorable Nee-chan, but I still need something's from him, for Akeno-san. Besides, I kicked his ass~"

Vali smirked, seeing Suou shudder.

Akeno wondered what Sakai meant when he said "I still need something's from him, for Akeno-san." since she couldn't think of anything.

Serafall exhaled deeply, calming her aura.

"You're lucky Saka-chan's trying to do something good for that girl over there, otherwise you would become a firing target for me. No one goes for Saka-chan, got it?"

Suou internally felt his fear growing, angering a kid who was strong was one thing, but there was no wrath, like Serafall's unyielding protectiveness over Sakai and Sona.

She walks over, and yanks him out of the ice, murmuring "Follow me." and Suou bows his head, doing just that, not wanting to anger Serafall anymore, feeling if he did, she'd take him out.

Akeno approached Sakai. "You, beat him."

Sakai smiles. "He wont harm you again. Are you okay?"

Akeno nods her head. "Thanks to you."

"And thanks to Rias-chan who gave me information about you too. If not for her info, might've not found you in time."

Akeno looked to Rias, who smiled. "I'm glad I could help out. Don't worry, Serafall-sama might seem eccentric, but she's very good at diplomacy, and my Onii-sama should be here soon, so everything shall be fine."

Akeno wore gratitude on her face. "Thank you, all of you, it means a lot to me. Even though we don't know one another, you all came to help me. I'm sorry I attacked you, I didn't know..."

Sakai shakes his head. "Its alright, water under the bridge as they say. He'll agree to leave you alone, so you'll be free to live as you like. He wont stop you."

Akeno felt her heart dance in her chest.

Vali smirks. "I think you drove the fear of ice into him, and if not, then your Onee-sama certainly is doing that."

Sakai snickers, as does Rias.

Akeno let out a small breath, looking over to her Granduncle.

Soon enough, Sirzechs also appeared, and they continued speaking to one another.

When the talks finished, Suou came over, and looked to Akeno, but his eyes lingered on Sakai for a moment, a shiver running up his spine, something Vali noticed, and held a small smirk on her lips.

"…Promise me that you'll stay away from our clan, and you'll stay with the Devils. Promise that, and we'll not bother you again…"

Akeno nods her head, though Sakai shakes his own. "Akeno-san, your mother…where is she buried?"

"I don't know…" Akeno whispered sadly.

Sakai nods, looking to Suou. "Tell her where her mothers grave is, if its on your land, let her visit it, and give her anything that belonged to her mother. I can't imagine you'd want any of it anyway, correct? And if there's nothing left from her home, give her anything that would mean something to her."

Sakai spoke, recalling Suzaku said Suou had access to that and she didn't know where it was, one reason he left Suou alive, so he could get some stuff for Akeno, even if it couldn't bring her mother back, recalling Vali's happiness from seeing a picture, he thought for Akeno it would be nice for her.

Suou exhaled, and exhaled through his nose. "…Very well, I'll send all relevant requested items and information."

Akeno was stunned, it seemed Suou's fight with Sakai had a profound effect on him.

The child he showed no respect for previously, he now was showing immense respect for.

Even without Serafall, Akeno suspected Suou understood Sakai was dangerous in his own way, and doing this, secured Akeno's past with items that belonged to her mother, and allowed her to have a final farewell to the mother she loved.

"Can I, introduce myself as Himejima too?" Akeno adds on.

Suou takes a deep breath, then after pausing for a few moments as he glanced at Sakai and Serafall, shuddering at the sight, simply nods his head. "Yes, there's others that have that name."

Suou left after that, limping from the wounds Sakai gave him, as did the others.

Akeno looked to Sakai, and a tear came to her eye. "I, I can say goodbye to my Mom…I never got to, I never thought I would, but you made it happen for me. I'll even get her things…thank you."

Sakai gently smiles. "You don't need to thank me. Its not gonna bring your Mom back, but I hope it gives you some comfort. I'll go with you personally, and make sure nothing happens when you wanna visit her grave. And if Suou shows his face again, I'll freeze him solid. Though, I suspect he got the message to leave you alone~"

Akeno giggled, and sniffled at the same time. "Ufufu, I think he might have a fear of you now~ I thought it was pretty cool though~"

"Love the pun~" Sakai snickered, Akeno giggled slightly as he leans closer. "Now you're free to do as you like, Akeno-san."

"Thank you, Sakai-kun." Akeno hugged him in gratitude, and he hugged her back.

The others watched on, glad to see how it worked out for the best in the end as Akeno felt at ease for the first time in a long time.