The memory of that first kiss lingered sweetly, but it came with a new weight—Draconis now knew who he'd be up against. Rias's fiancé wasn't just some distant name; he was a high-class devil, a formidable rival leagues above where Draconis stood now.
He'd have to get stronger. Much stronger.
Since arriving in this world, Draconis had lived with a constant sense of danger. Even as his powers grew, the threats only loomed larger. Every new day brought stronger enemies, and the gap between him and the top kept him restless.
For now, contracts were his main path to power, though he never slacked on personal training. It was risky, sure, but if there was one thing Draconis refused to do, it was back down from a challenge.
Mai Sakurajima's contract was already secured, but he'd need to find more partners soon. And to do that, he'd have to get a Familiar—fast. Otherwise, he'd be stuck wasting time on tedious jobs like handing out flyers. The thought made tomorrow's trip to the Familiar Forest all the more appealing.
"Sleep now," Rias whispered, pulling him close and soaking in his warmth. "We've got a big day ahead."
Draconis rolled his eyes internally. She'd spent half the night winding him up, only to tell him to sleep? Typical.
But it was a small thing. Devils were known for indulging their desires, but that didn't mean they were ruled by them. If anything, true devils mastered absolute control. Draconis let his mind settle, holding Rias's perfect body as sleep finally claimed him.
No more interruptions. Just the two of them, tangled together until morning.
He woke to a vision straight out of a dream. Rias lay sprawled beside him, covers barely clinging to her waist, one leg draped carelessly over his own. Her flawless body was on full display—chest, waist, legs, every inch a masterpiece.
Not a bad way to start the day.
His arm was numb from being used as her pillow, but he couldn't bring himself to complain. He nudged her shoulder gently.
"Rias, time to get up."
She blinked awake, pushing fiery strands of hair from her face, voice thick with sleep. "Is it morning already?"
"Sun's up. I need to get my training in." He patted her smooth thigh, signaling her to move.
Rias sat up, stretching with feline grace, letting the covers slide away without a care. Draconis forced his eyes away with heroic effort and started dressing.
Rias flopped back onto the bed, lounging like a queen, her gaze lingering on him as he pulled on his clothes. Apparently, women enjoyed the view just as much as men did.
Morning training went smoothly, especially with Rias joining in. The time flew by, and soon enough, it was time for the Familiar Forest.
Only Draconis and Asia needed new Familiars, but the whole club tagged along. Five of them gathered in the clubroom, stepping through the magic circle that whisked them away to the forest.
The Familiar Forest was like nothing from the human world—a pocket dimension wedged between Heaven and the Underworld, teeming with bizarre life. Overhead, a blood-red moon painted the landscape in shades of crimson, twisted black trees clawing at the sky. The air was thick with an eerie, chilling vibe.
Asia shivered, eyes wide. "It's so dark here…"
Rias smiled, scanning the woods. "We're closer to the Underworld side. There's a part near Heaven, but the light energy there is too strong for devils. This is our territory."
She paused, eyes narrowing. "Tonight's a full moon. That means he should show up."
"Who?" Asia tilted her head, curious.
"The Familiar Master."
Before Rias could elaborate, a surge of magic rippled through the forest. A voice echoed overhead.
"Ha! More newcomers!"
Draconis looked up to see a middle-aged man perched on a branch, dressed like a rugged explorer.
Asia jumped, startled. "Eek! Who's there?"
The man grinned, dropping down with theatrical flair. "I am Zatouji, Master of Familiars! Ah, what a night—the moon's perfect for hunting! With me around, you'll catch any Familiar you want!"
Draconis raised an eyebrow. If he was the master, why did he need to hunt them? Sounded like a bit of a show-off.
He shot Rias a questioning look. She just smiled and nodded. "He's the real deal. Trust me."
Zatouji clapped his hands. "Alright, what'll it be? Power type? Speed type? Poison specialist?"
Draconis smirked. "Got anything that helps with homework?"
Everyone stared at him.
Rias sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. Of all the things to want in a Familiar…
"Be serious. You should pick something that can help in a fight," she said, all business.
Draconis shrugged. "Depends what we find."
Asia's eyes sparkled. "Um, I want something cute… like a kitty!"
Zatouji winked. "A request from a beautiful young lady? Leave it to me!"
He led them deeper into the woods, moving with surprising skill. It didn't take long before they reached a lake, moonlight glinting off the surface.
"Here we are! This lake is home to the water spirit, Undine! They're fierce fighters—perfect for devils!"
Draconis's interest piqued. Angels, devils, dragons…and now, spirits and maybe even elves. Legends said elves were all pale skin, long legs, and pointed ears—he wondered if reality matched the stories.
He stepped forward, ready for whatever came next.
—
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