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A Dragon's Family(Rewriting) by Pandora's Reader

Anime X-overs & High School DxD/ハイスクールD×D Xover Rated: M, English, Family & Adventure, OC, Rias G., T. Koneko, S. Irina, Words: 187k+, Favs: 175, Follows: 180, Published: Oct 25, 2021 Updated: Nov 17, 2021

22Chapter 13: A little bonding never hurt anyone

AN - still don't own either DxD, Persona or Fairy Tail.

And i may be messing up the TL a little but oh well.

{Tara's POV}

Waking up, the morning was already a little different. there was no Rias or Koneko to pry off of me, and i had to wait for the rest of my brain to catch up so i could remember why. A good few minutes later, and i was caught up. With me knowing why i was in a different room, and bed, i was good to start waking up. I gently pried Irina off of me, took Natsu off of my bust, and walked over to one of my suitcases. I opened it and took out my small container of lightning beads, and actually contemplated it for a bit. This was a routine i've done for years... Maybe waking up the old way, with a good cup of coffee would be better. This was a vacation after-all. Then i wondered about breakfast. The hotel we stayed at did offer room service, AND it would be paid for by Azazel... (Breakfast here, coffee at Boss' afterwards.) With that thought settled, i went over to the phone, and quietly ordered us breakfast.

While i waited for them, i freshened up and nudged Irina awake. She slowly got up, and wiped her eyes. "Morning Tara-oneesan." "Morning hun. Breakfast is on it's way, and we'll be going to Boss' after." She looked excited when i mentioned the last part. "Really! Yay! The curry, it's just absolutely amazing. And i never knew coffee could be that good. And the atmosphere in the place, it's just all so amazing!" I chuckled at that. "Looks like someone's found her go-too stop, huh?" She smiled at me and got off the bed. "Yep! But did you really mean it about coming back even after we're done with our vacation?" "Duh. We all love the place, it's great and Boss is pretty chill. Even if i couldn't just fly us here if i wanted, we could teleport with Martha or literally anyone else from the house... Well, maybe not Issei, his magic ability is still trash." Irina huffed as she started to brush her teeth, but didn't correct or deny it.

After Irina was done, and we had our breakfast, we left the hotel. I was on my phone, responding to Rias, Koneko and mom, the former 2 were sad i wasn't there, while mom was asking about Leblanc. I told her more about it, and kept going. I wore my hair down my natural way, and covering an eye as it usually did, and had on a crop top that showed off a bit of my 6 pack and some nice jeans. Irina decided to wear her hair down too, had a sundress and skirt on while we both had slip-on shoes. We had a small bag that held our gym clothes, a bottle of water and snack of our choice on our shoulders. We walked on, and made our way to boss' and talked while we did. {Morning.} {Morning Tara. Did you sleep well?} {Yup. What about you guys? I know about Rias and Koneko, but how's the rest of the house doing?} {Tara. It's been a single day. They are fine. However, i will admit the sight of Rias and Koneko's downtrodden faces made the morning funny.} I found that funny too, so it must've been better in-person.

{Anyway, we are getting ready for the peace talks, and they should start and be done by tomorrow. I'll send Rias over when they are.} {Nice! Thanks sis!} {Whatever. Have a good day Tara.} I sent a feeling of rolling my eyes at her, and went back to Irina. "So, you excited for the girl's fun we'll have with Nijima and Takamaki?" "Yup. Other then Xenovia and a few nuns or sisters, i haven't really had the chance to just hang-out with other girls. The house makes that easy, but it's a whole new experience with some new friends." I smiled at that. It was always nice to see Irina happy. "So, did the girls say where they wanted to meet up, or did no-one bring that up?" That seemed to make her pause. She took out her phone and checked, and yup, no-one said if we were meeting up at the gym or somewhere else. "Ahahaaa... I'll ask now." "You do that hun." And we kept walking.

I took out my phone, and decided to check the group-chat. I saw Ann and Makoto respond to Irina's good-morning, and her telling them i'd say it too when i decided to check the chat, which i did, after ruffling her a hair a bit for that. I saw the girls say they'd meet up with us at Leblanc, and made small talk with the girls. We made it to Shibuya and the platform to get to Yongen, now we were just waiting. Even if i was still tempted to just fly us there. We waited, and got on the train as soon as it arrived. Neither of us managed to snag a seat, but i brought out and kept my glare up so no one got any ideas. The train ride was as peaceful as it could be. We made it to Yongen, and i saw a woman in a lab-coat walking ahead. Tae Takemi, the hot doctor, was walking ahead of us, and Irina said something that caught the both of us off guard. "A goth! Nee, did i ever tell you about the time me and Xenovia ran into a goth?" "Uhh? No?" "Great! It's a funny story. See, we knew about them, and Xenovia was convinced that all goths had sold their souls to Devils, but i knew they didn't, so me and Xenovia had a little argument about whether they were damned or not."

I spluttered, and i think Tae almost tripped. She turned back to look at us, and her face just said 'what the fuck did i just hear?' And i couldn't blame her. "... How did you survive with Xenovia as your partner again?" Irina just shrugged and started to skip along towards Leblanc. I just stood there and Tae wasn't doing any better. "... I'll just pretend i imagined that conversation. Have a good day kid." And then she walked away. Towards Leblanc. Oh this would be fun. I walked forwards and at ssome point, Tae realized we were also heading to Leblanc, and i saw her stop and i looked at her face when i passed her. She just looked like she was questioning if it was worth it, and just cursed and kept going. I inwardly laughed at that. Irina made it to the front door of Leblanc, and opened it. "We have returned oh Boss!" She skipped on into the store, and Tae just followed in after me. We all took a seat at the counter, and ordered. Irina had a cup of whatever he made for her yesterday. Tae had an Espresso, and i ordered mine.

"Think you can make me a Ristretto Bossman?" He smirked at me and nodded. "1 Cortado, an Espresso and Ristretto coffee coming right up. Hey kid! When you're done up there, come on down and help me out!" "Got it Boss!" And then he went to work. It was just us in the place, so i decided to start the conversation. "So, what's up doc?" She turned to me and blinked. "Did you just make a Looney Tunes reference?" "Yup." "Huh... I think i'll like you." "Hey! What about me?" "Eh. Aren't i damned?" "I was against that!" "Ok." And we went from there. Boss was interested in our conversation, so Irina told him what she said earlier, and Boss just laughed. Akira had come down halfway into our conversation, and heard what Irina had said. He seemed to have mirth in his eyes and a nice smirk on his face. "This Xenovia girl seems interesting. What's she like?" Hmm. That was a good question. If this was before? I would've just called her an insensitive bitch. But we got to know each other a little better, courtesy of living in the same house, and i only had a minor dislike of her now. So how would i describe her? Hmmm... Aha!

"Just think of a female Kitagawa, just blunter." He blinked at that. And i could see the gears in his head stop. He just stood there and blinked, took off his glasses, and pinched the bridge of his nose as he turned his head up. "If she's anywhere near as blunt as Yusuke, how do you endure her?" "Oh at first? I hated the her. She could've busted her ass and i would've laughed at her. But after getting to know her, i can accept that she's as blunt as a a bag of hammers." Irina raised her finger and seemed like she was going to say something, but she just dropped it and nodded. "I... I can see that. Maybe i should use that on her when we see her again." "The phrase or the bag of hammers?" "The phrase! Even if i know she could take it, i'm not dropping a bag of hammers on my friend!" "I'll do it." "Oneesan!" I cackled. The others just watched us and laughed a-long. "I like your sense of humor kid, it's right up my alley." "Thanks doc. Nice to know someone appreciates it."

Irina pouted at that, and i just laughed and ruffled her hair. We talked for a bit more, then Tae left to manage her clinic. The old couple dropped by for a bit, and left after they had some coffee and made small talk with Boss. That just left me, Irina and Akira. "So, how'd you end up here Kurusu? I don't think it's normal for a guy to live in an attic. Unless you were just staying over." Akira looked at me from the sink, and i saw him thinking about what to tell me. I remembered his backstory was a bit fucked up, but i didn't remember what exactly happened. I knew Shido was involved, but that was the limits to my memory. "There was someone that needed help... I did the right thing, even if everyone else i knew said otherwise, i knew it was the right thing to do." Hmm, he left out a-lot there. But i did just meet him yesterday, so not getting his life's story right away makes sense.

"Hmm... Sounds like something you'd do Tara-oneesan." "What do you mean Irina?" "Remember what you did after Rias-chan told you about Kiba-kun?" "... To be fair, i was pissed as fuck and Martha didn't stop me." "I know, we all know. I'm pretty sure you said you were still scolded and grounded for it." She had me there. Didn't mean i had to admit it. Akira seemed interested, but i just smirked at him. "Rank me up some more, who knows. Maybe you'll find out." I could tell Irina was confused about what i meant by that, but i knew Joker understood it. His eyes sharpened and i just smirked at him. We talked for another minute or something, and then the door opened and Ann and Makoto walked in. They wore casual clothes and had a duffel bag hanging off their shoulders, and smiled at me and Irina. "Morning Sakura and Irina-san. Are you both ready?" I nodded at Makoto, and Irina got up with me. "See ya later Kurusu." "Bye!" And we left.

We started walking to the station, and talked while we did. "So, what do you girls have planned. And how good's the gym?" Ann looked at Makoto, who started explaining. "The gym we're going to is called Protein Lovers... And despite the name, it's a good gym. As for what we'll be doing, i'm interested in seeing your [Renewal Taekwondo] and seeing how i may match up with my [Aikido.]" "Nice. What about you Takamaki? Whatcha gonna do?" "Me? I think i'll just work on some light exercises, and watch you two. Makoto's WAAAY better then i could ever be with this martial arts stuff. I don't have a shoot today, so i can just hang-out with you guys longer then i usually could." "A shoot?" I knew what she meant, but Irina didn't. She even looked interested. "Oh yeah! I model when i have the time, and i love it. Though our schedules are still being fixed after an incident with them."

Irina hummed at that, and i saw her look at me. "I wonder if i could convince Sakura-okaasan to make you all model." And i stopped in my tracks. I could see it happening... Oh gods. She'd physically drag us to a photo-shoot and embarrass the hell out of us! Wait a minute... Is she... "Irina! Get back here! Don't do it!" She laughed as she ran ahead, and started to call my mom. "Girls! After her!" I started running after Irina, Makoto and Ann just watched on with confusion, but i was too late. " Sakura-Okasaan! Do you think you could model and bring Tara, Martha and Rias-chan to do it too?" The SQUEAL that my mother let out told me my fate was sealed. "YES! I'll go run it by Rias right now! Thanks for the idea honey!" And then mom hung up. I just dropped to the floor, not caring if anyone saw. "Nooooo!" Makoto and Ann caught up, and Irina came back with a victorious smile on her face. "Is something the matter Sakura-san? I thought you liked showing off?"

"Oh i do. Don't get me wrong. But mom... She's going to embarrass the hell out of us the whole time. Neither me or my sisters can win against the woman. Irina MIGHT be safe, but she'll probably join in because she wants too. Rias wouldn't mind at all, she likes to show off her beauty even more then i do, but Martha? Martha's going to beat me into the ground for having dragged her into this." Ann was laughing at my misery, Irina was joining her, and Makoto had a smile on her face. Irina picked me off the ground, and i decided to open my bag, and make it look like i brought Natsu out of it, and put him on my head. No one minded, probably because Ann and Makoto are used to Morgana, and Irina knows i just summoned him. We kept walking and we were close to the gym when Makoto brought up something else.

"Now that you've said it, how adept are you and your family for your sister to be able to 'beat you into the ground' as you've said?" Fishing for information, i get it. "That depends on your definition of good. If we're talking physically the strongest, then that's me. I'm a power, instinct and speed fighter. Mom's a mix of technique, speed, and natural fighter. She's more flexible then me and Martha, she thinks her moves through, and she's got an amazing reaction time. Then there's Martha. She's the best technique fighter out of all of us and she's a very good speed fighter. She thinks of our moves, what we might do, how best to counter and lead us into traps. If we ever got Sona to practice a style, the two of them might fight for hours." We walked into the gym when i was halfway through speaking. Makoto seemed interested and i could tell she was taking in the information and filing it away for later. Though i did see her perk up when i mentioned Sona.

"Souna... Souna Shitori, student council president of Kuoh. You mentioned they were best-friends. How would you describe their administration?" Oh? Now she was asking for herself. Irina and Ann had gone off to change while me and Makoto talked, so it was just us. "Hmm. Sona runs a tight ship. If Ruruko doesn't let her know about something going on, she usually has Tsubaki or Tsubasa fill her in on anything the student body talks about or needs. Tomoe usually does her own thing but she works like a discipline force so there's that. Saji helps with the physical aspect of moving things or helping set stuff up, and Reya help the coordinate everything. They know what happens with us, what we might need or want to see, and they plan from there. That's all i know really. That's more of something you should ask Martha or Sona. I could put you 3 in touch if you'd want. I know they'd both like you from what i've been seeing so far."

Makoto was listening to it all, and when i mentioned that last part? Her eyes lit up and i knew she'd say yes. So i took out my phone, looked up Sona's number, since i didn't know it off the top of my head, and gave it and Martha's number to Makoto. {Gave you and Sona a new friend. You're welcome.} {Who?} {Their 'Queen' the student council president and one of you serious types.} {Whatever. I'll go tell Sona tot expect a message from an unknown number soon.} {Kay!} I looked at Makoto and saw her nod with a smile on her face. "Thank you Sakura-san. I'll look forward to comparing notes with Shitori-san and Sakura-san." "You know, you can and the others can just call me Tara right? I'm not big on the whole prefixes and stuff like that. Besides Sakura-san is my mom, i'm still young you know." I don't count my mental age or the fact i'm technically a year older then my actual mom, but they don't need to know that.

Makoto looked up at me, and i saw her consider it. "Very well. Thank you Tara-san." Eh, like Sairaorg, i'll take it. "Anyway, let's go get changed. Irina and Takamaki are probably already doing their own thing." She nodded, and we went to the changing room. Makoto and i changed into sports bras and form fitting pants, and i was sure she stared at my 6 pack and bust. I saw her look down at her own, and it reminded me of Koneko. That thought made me laugh, and i gently clapped her on the back. "Don't worry about it Nijima! Bigger doesn't always mean better. You wouldn't believe how hard it is for us to find things that don't make us uncomfortable when we go shopping." Martha got sick of it so she made size adjusting runes and weaved them into our clothes. But again, she didn't need to know that. "Rias almost threw a fit when we started to really grow and couldn't wear some of her old clothes." Again, size adjustment runes, but Rias likes to have MULTIPLE wardrobes so she still bought a-lot.

By the time i was done, Makoto looked better. "Thank you for the vote of confidence Tara-san." "Anytime Nijima!" She smiled at that. "You're free to call me Makoto if you'd like." "Nice! Well then, let's go hit stuff Makoto!" And i walked out with a smile on my face. I heard an amused huff, and heard her follow behind me. I saw Irina and Ann walking on a treadmill, and looked around for an open space. When i found one, i led Makoto over, and got into a stance. "Show me your stance. We can go over what's different and go from there." Makoto nodded, and that's how we spent a half hour. Makoto or i would be in stance, or one of would, and we'd compare the differences. Both of our styles relied on ingraining a discipline into us, and our styles discipline were polar opposites of each other. [Aikido] focused more of softness and subduing your opponent. [Renewal Taekwondo] was focused more on precision and killing. Some of my moves even focused on points that would ensure death if i hit too hard.

We had an interesting time comparing our styles. At some point, Makoto asked if we could spar. I thought about it, and decided to limit myself a bit more, and agree. I was already limiting my strength to base human, i just didn't want to hurt Makoto on accident. I put my hair up, and then we moved up to a empty ring, and got into our stances. Ann and Irina noticed this, so they stopped chatting, and came over to observe us. I even think i saw Ann recording us. Either for herself, her friend or the thieves, i didn't know. Though i didn't care either. Makoto and i looked at each other, and Irina counted us down. When she hit 0, we moved. I made the first move and sent out a kick aimed at her knee, but she moved to the side and aimed a fist towards my side. I blocked the punch and slammed my foot onto the ground as i sent a punch of my own aimed at center mass. Makoto saw it coming and raised her guard to take the hit. Since i was being very careful, her guard held but her arms looked like they were shaking.

I knew i didn't break anything, so she might not have expecting the hit to be as 'strong' as it was. I moved in to capitalize on her distracted state, and swept her legs. She didn't have time to respond, and hit the mat as i brought down and stopped my fist by her face. "I win.~ Wanna go again Makoto?" I opened my fist and helped her up after she clasped my hand. "Hmm... A few more. I'm not used to people that know what they're doing. This is a good chance to learn more and better myself. Though i may need to make sure i don't block too many of your hits." I smirked at that, if only she knew, and walked back to my side as she got herself back into another stance. "Ready?" We nodded, and Irina started to count down again. When she hit 0, i charged in again, and sent out a quick jab, and Makoto dodged it and went for a kick aimed at me side. I blocked it with my arm, and jumped back as i got ready to move in again. Makoto seemed to suspect something, and got into a defensive stance.

I grinned as i rushed in, jumped, and spun with my leg out aimed towards her shoulder. I love spinning, people don't expect you to turn into a Bey-blade mid-fight. Makoto was surprised, and my leg hit her shoulder. But before i could do anything, she grit her teeth and gripped my leg, and threw me onto the mat. She was about to send a strike that would lead to her getting a point, but i rolled out of the way and used my back to jump onto my feet. I looked at Makoto, and saw her moving her shoulder and wincing as she did so. I smirked at that and went into another rush as i jumped and rolled into a [Renewal Taekwondo Axe] aimed at her other shoulder. She realized what was going on, and rolled out of the way. My heel came down onto the mat, but didn't break anything, and i got back up to face Makoto. But in the time it took me to get back up, she was already close to me and sent a jab my way. I reacted and grabbed the arm she used and tossed her over my shoulder. She landed on the mat, and i had a leg up ready to bring it down if she moved.

"Nice. You did WAY better this time!" Makoto smiled at that, and raised her hand for me to pick up. "The other thing i learned from our 1st round was i need to keep moving against you. Your fast, hit harder then any person i've faced, and you take advantage of any opening you find. Despite knowing that, i was in now way prepared for you to start jumping and spinning." I clasped her hand, and helped her up. "That's why i do it, other then the fact that i enjoy doing it, you don't expect someone you fight to just start moving like Sonic out of nowhere." Makoto laughed at the comparison, and i joined her. Makoto was like a mix of me and Martha. She was responsible, levelheaded and strict. But she also enjoyed our spars, enjoyed the feel of a fight, and knew what she wanted to do. She was starting to move up in my list of favorite thieves. Makoto and i sparred for another 10 minutes, and then went back to comparing stances and talking about what she could do differently. It was nice.

After another half hour of being at the gym, we decided to head back to Leblanc to eat and decide where to go from there. Makoto and i talked about our spars, Sona and Martha, and what else we'd do for today. At one point, Natsu fell in-between my bust and i was too lazy to pick him up out of it, so his head was just peaking out of them. It was funny when it happened, and Ann and Irina took pictures of the sight. {Heh.} {Oh shut it.} We kept going, and made it back to Leblanc. I took the lead and opened the door. "The Queen's and their entourage's have arrived! And we come with a hunger!" Boss looked at me with Makoto, who stiffened when i used her code-name with my title, and chuckled. "Well then, come on in your majesties, should i prepare your royal curry and beverage?" "Yes you should Bossman!" He chuckled again, and started to whip us up some food. We all went to the counter seats, and sat side by side. Irene on my left, Makoto on my right and Ann next to her. I took out my wallet from my bag, and paid Boss for the food and drinks that i knew were coming up.

It was just us in the shop, so me and the girls just talked, and Ann brought the modelling thing back up. "So, when do you think your mom will come by? Depending on when, it might make a difference on what you'll end up modelling in." I thought about that. Mom was going to go visit our grandparents with Martha, and they might end up coming back earlier, so they might end up coming for a bit before we head back home. "Depends. She might drop by early but i'll have to ask her later." "Hmm... Then you might end up in a summer issue or something like that. Think she'll be fine if they ask you to be in swimsuits?" "Oh she'd be fine with it. She'll tease the hell out of us, but she'll be fine with it. We all know we're hot, Martha's just the only one that doesn't actively decide to show off. And Irina doesn't care about any other guy then Issei." I waited for Irina to say something, but she just hummed in agreement.

Ann was interested in that and went to talk about him with Irina. Makoto looked at me and seemed thoughtful about something. I was about to say something, but Irina said something that i just needed to comment on. "He's great! He's a little immature but we really confessed and started to date just recently." "Which would've happened earlier if you just let us tell him!" Irina looked embarrassed at that. It was Ann that kept it going. "Tell him what?" Even Makoto looked interested again. "She told you about us being childhood friends right?" They nodded. "She had a crush on the little gremlin even after they moved. And when she finally got a phone and he came up, she swears me and Rias to secrecy about telling him about it. It took YEARS! I almost strangled the gremlin with how dense he was. Irina was in the best-friend zone ever since she was 8! She only confessed a month and some change back.

The gremlin even said 'How am i going to get a girlfriend at this rate' once, and Rias had to physically keep me, even if i could've broken out whenever i wanted, to stop me from wringing his neck. Even Rias was losing her patience. But years of being a saint-" Irina snorted at that. Since technically Martha was the saint. "- and it pays off! The whole house heard his reaction, and i bought as much strawberry cake i could eat to celebrate not having to keep it in anymore. I didn't even need to look for an excuse to punt him, since he had a small mid-life crisis about how dense he was, and another reason that doesn't have to be mentioned, and gave me permission to hit him for being stupid. I kicked him through a tree and felt years of frustration melt away."They took it all in, and Boss just came over with our orders and an amused look on his face. "Sounds deserved from what i'm hearing. Hope you didn't him him too hard though?" "Oh yeah, he walked it off a few minutes later, but that wasn't the point."

I grabbed my Mocha and took a sip, and dug into my curry. I was in bliss. Makoto made a noise of something, but i didn't pay it much mind. "I can't tell if i should criticize you over kicking someone through a tree or take your side about that... If i had to deal with a similar situation, i wouldn't know what i'd choose." I hummed at that, and turned to Ann, who was suspiciously quiet. She seemed to be fidgeting in place, and i narrowed my eyes at her. Makoto and Irina looked at where i was looking, and noticed what i had. Makoto took a quick sip of her drink, and looked at Ann after. "Ann. Is there something you'd like to tell us?" She started to fidget and twirl a piece of her hair. "Umm, i-i don't know what you mean Makoto. Nope. Absolutely no idea at all." We all, boss included, raised our brows at her and just stared. Ann did her best, but eventually she caved in. And in typical anime fashion, the door opened for Akira and Ryuji to walk into Ann's embarrassed statement. "Su-"

"I have a crush on Ryuji ok!" And then we all turned to the door to look at the boys. Ryuji had been mid greeting when that happened, and he looked frozen. Akira on the other hand just blinked as he looked between them. He didn't seem surprised though. Must've already known then. I'm pretty sure i heard Morgan react and even saw him burst out of the bag, Ann was busy staring at Ryuji, and Ryuji's brain seemed to have kicked itself into gear as he blinked and looked at Ann. They both held the stare for a bit, and turned away from each other with blushes on their faces. Me, Irina, Makoto, Boss, Akira and Morgana all shared a look, and we knew we'd all enjoy this. For now, we all on some unspoken signal, decided to see how it played out. Akira came over and sat next to Irina, leaving the spot next to Ann open on purpose. We watched them both look towards the seat, and waited to see what happened next. Ryuji just scratched the back of his head, and slowly made his way there. Ann had her head turned away from him, but we all saw her peaking towards him as he came closer.

Eventually, he sat next to her, and the both of them were trying their hardest not to look at each other. The rest of us were watching and i was grinning like a loon. "Gods, the both of you are adorable!" I just couldn't help it. They were acting like children and it was hilarious to me. They both groaned at me, and Ann put her head in her hands. Ryuji just looked around at us, but we all just shook our heads at him. It was in his hands now. He understood that and started talking. "Wel- uh, i... I don't know how to do this... Shit, umm... I never noticed, but... How do i say this..? I'm... Happy? I think that's it. Yeah. That's it. I'm happy... Shit, i'm not good at this... At all... But uh, i mean, if you'll have me... I'd be happy to go out with you Ann." We all listened as that went on, and Ann slowly took her head out of her hands. She looked at him, surprise and happiness clearly on her face. "Really? Do you really mean that?" "For real. I do." Ann brightened up and hugged him. Ryuji froze for a second, but hugged back.

"Hallelujah! Best accidental confession ever!" Might have been the only one i've been involved in, but still the best. The others cheered and we congratulated them. We talked, and eventually i had the best idea. "Celebrations on me! You too Boss!" He looked surprised, but smiled. "As much as i would like that, i've got to stay and man the store. But you kids go enjoy yourselves." Aww. "You sure Boss? I'm taking us all to the Wilton. We're staying there with all of our expenses paid for us. ALL of em." I heard the thieves quiet down, but i just kept looking at Boss. I saw him look uncertain, but he just sighed. "Be sure to bring me back something good." "Yessir Bossman!" The rest of the thieves just looked at me and Irina and blinked. "What?" "You're staying at the Wilton hotel?" "Yeah. I did say we checked into a hotel yesterday." "You didn't say which one though." Akira was right, but i just smiled at him.

"Anyway, off to the buffet we go!" Actually. {Can Azazel call the hotel and have them reserve the all you can eat buffet for us?} {1 i'm not sure if that's how it works. 2 ok. 3 Why?} {Accidentally made 1 of the thieves confess and the guy walked in because anime, or in this case, game logic is a thing. They're giving it a shot.} {... I'll just call him now.} {Kay, thanks!} {Whatever.} I got up, and started to lead us to the hotel. They messaged Yusuke to show up, and we collected him a-long the way. We all talked about Ann and Ryuji, and their passed, when Ann started to crush on him and so on. 10 minutes later, Martha got back to me. {He said it's done and that he'll consider it an expense so you don't owe him.} {Nice! Thanks Martha!} {Your welcome.} I grinned as we got closer, and as we got there, told the receptionist, who had been replaced by a Fallen which surprised me, that we reserved the buffet. The guy led us to the buffet, and told us we had 30 minutes all to ourselves.

The thieves were surprised, but i dragged all the girls with me as we went to grab our plates. I grabbed a plate and grabbed some meats, cake, and a vegetable or 2, and repeated the process for a few more plates, and went back to meet up with the rest of the group. The girls were on one side of the table, and saved me a space in-between Makoto and Irina, and the boys were all on the other side, including Natsu, i couldn't exactly leave him out of a buffet now could i? We all made conversation, then Joker asked me a question. "So, Sakura-san, how'd you manage to get this done?" The others tuned into that, but kept eating. "My sister, Martha's boyfriend, and my other sister, Rias' brother. I'm pretty much doing them a favor by being here. Martha's boyfriend is counting this as an expense so i don't owe him back, but i'm still doing him and Rias' brother, a favor. " They all listened to that, and i saw Joker think on it before nodding. We all enjoyed our time there, and Yusuke seemed to enjoy eating something nice, and we all had a great time.

By the end of it, Ann and Ryuji could look at each other and say a few words before they started to blush. We all packed a little something for Boss, and started to make our way back to the cafe. Akira and i walked a bit behind the group, and just talked. "Even if it was by accident, i want to thank you. Ann and Ryuji... That was a situation i had no idea how to tackle. There was a part of me that wondered if they'd ever figure it out. But this... This was the best case scenario. The trip to the buffet was just the icing on the cake for this. So again, thank you." I smiled and brought my arms behind my head. "No problem man. They're cute together. It helps that he didn't run away from it or tried to deal with it later. Sakamoto making the right move is something you have to praise him about too." Akira smiled at that, and he looked forwards to where Ryuji and Ann were walking. "Yeah. I'll do that later, i think i'll let him have this moment now." I smiled some more, and walked forward with Akira. Then i paused as i felt our confidant rank up.

I turned over to Akira, and blinked. "That still feels weird." I saw him want to question it, but decide not too. "You're going to end up telling us how you know aren't you?" "Hmm... Sounds like a rank 7 conversation to me." He laughed. And i laughed with him. That got they're attention, but they kept going after we said we'd talk about it later. "By the way... What do i do?" I really was curious. I looked up the 'Queen of Swords' and was surprised at how close it fit me. The 1st part was my last life to a T. I never really settled on someone even after years of dating guys or women. Sairaorg was the 1st person i really liked, and it took me dying and being reborn to find him. Joker looked at me, and i saw him close his eyes for a bit. "Your Rank 1 is 'It is slightly easier for you and your party to reach your destination' which is vague. And your Rank 2 is 'Improvements of any kind are slightly easier to be made by you and your companions.' Which is easier to figure out." "Hmm... Interesting. Maybe you'll end up getting jacked with a push up by the end. That's a hilarious thought." He snorted, and we kept walking.

"Can i ask a question?" "Just did but go ahead my man." "How much do you know?" "Yes." "...Yes?" "Take it how you will." He was silent for a bit, before he just laughed. "Then let me ask something else." He stopped, and i turned to Joker. He had a hand in his hair and just shook his head. He looked at me and we locked eyes. "Will you be a threat to me and my team?" "Nah. I know you guys are doing good, and i'm not going to endanger that or any of you. I'll even help you out with your next target." We looked at each other, and broke our gaze when Akira nodded and smiled at me. "Thank you for the answer." "No problem. Besides, my sister, Rias, is a fan. She heard about that Kamoshida guy, and he reminded us of another asshole we knew."He seemed interested in that, and i saw Ryuji and Ann react when they heard his name. They asked about that, and i repeated what i said earlier.

"What happened to him? You said 'knew' so something must've happened." "Hmm? Oh. Martha kicked him in the balls for a minute and i kicked him into the ground. Then Rias and her best-friend Akeno repeated what Martha did a few weeks, almost a month, later." "That match was amazing despite what Tara-oneesan is saying. Actually, didn't you bring a copy of it with you?" "Yup. Maybe i'll show it to you guys sometime. Make it a group event, who knows." The guys looked a little uncomfortable, but i just grinned as i saw Ann's satisfied nod. Makoto seemed unsure of what to do, so she just nodded and didn't say anything. Ryuji seemed a little afraid now, oh well. We kept going and when we made it to Shibuya, ran into someone i remembered. The second detective prince himself. Goro Akechi.

"Oh? Now isn't this a coincidence." He ran his eyes over the group, and when his gaze stopped on Irina and mines, he paused. He had a smirk on his face when he first saw the thieves, but us? "Oh i'm sorry. I don't believe i've been introduced to you two before. My name is Goro Akechi, what about you two ladies?" "Hello! My names Irina Shidou." I saw him twitch when Irina said her last name. A part of his mask had cracked and i saw the venom in his eyes. "And my name's Tara Sakura." I didn't say it was nice to meet him. I didn't like him. I remembered he was a killer. A misguided one, who could've easily done better if he had friends, but one who killed countless people and even family members of future thieves. Akechi schooled his expression, and went back to a disarming smile. But i saw his eyes. Irina saw his eyes. And i'm pretty sure Joker and Queen did too.

"Well then, it's nice to meet you Shidou and Sakura-san. But still, what an interesting group you've chosen to associate yourselves with." And he started to look around. "A former student to Ichiryusai Madarame. And students of Shujin academy? Oh my, even a delinquent. What an oddly convenient group, wouldn't you say." I narrowed my eyes at him, and Akira and i walked forward. "And? I can tell you're implying something, so go ahead and say it." He seemed surprised at my straightforward approach, and he adjusted his stance and looked at me a little differently. A little on guard, and with an analytical gaze in his eyes. "Oh i wouldn't want to offend anyone. I'm just curious at the group. And with Medjed has just announced, seeing a group like them made me think of the Phantom Thieves." "Medjed? What do you mean?" Joker caught onto that on the spot. He didn't let the implication that Akechi suspected them phase him. "Oh? You didn't know? Medjed has recently demanded for the Phantom Thieves to unmask themselves or else the public will suffer the consequences. That kind of news is unsettling and quite concerning isn't it?"

Joker turned to Ann, and we saw as she was already on it. Ryuji had searched it up, and when he saw it was in english, he cursed but Ann started to read it out. After they were done, the thieves looked a little uncertain, and then Akechi started to talk again. "Hmm? Is it just me, or do they seem to more worried then they should be? Wouldn't you agree Sakura-san, Shidou-san?" I looked at him again, and narrowed my eyes. No need to glare. Yet. "So? It's what teenagers do? They worry about shit that doesn't concern them almost daily. Then when there's something actually able to affect them, they stress the fuck out for a few days then figure it out. You just dropped a bomb on them, why shouldn't they be worried?" "Sakura-san's right. You did effectively come out of nowhere, after a celebration mind you, and blindside us with this news. I don't understand why us worrying would be something worth notice, Detective-san." With Joker following it up, Akechi seemed to be on the back-foot.

He narrowed his eyes a bit, then asked if we were the Phantom Thieves, how would we take this. Joker and the rest of t the thieves answered that they'd help. Then he turned to us, and Irina spoke up before me. "Helping someone should always be the answer... Unless they're someone horrible." The thieves nodded to that, then it was my turn. "Like Irina said. Helping should be the answer. But what about you Akechi? What would YOU do?" He looked at me, and i saw him make sure to keep his mask up. He 'smiled' and spoke. "As someone in my profession should do, i'd help." I shared a look with Joker, and he caught how Akechi answered but deflected at the same time. We talked for a bit more, and then he left. Our group was a little unsettled, but i made sure to help bring the mood back up. We kept walking, and eventually, we made it back to Boss' place and i opened the door again. "The Queen and her court have returned good Bossman!"

Boss looked up, and greeted us as we came in. We all set down our doggy bags, which made it funnier since Natsu was on my head, i put him there to lighten the mood after Akechi left, and we were giving them to Boss. Ann and i grabbed cake, Ryuji and Akira grabbed meats, Makoto and Yusuke grabbed greens, and Irina grabbed beans for some reason. Boss smiled as he took them all, even the beans, and we all just hung-out until it was time to leave. Irina and i wandered around Shibuya for a bit, and i was tempted to check out Kichijoji, but i decided i'd save that for a group thing. We got back to the room, and Irina dived onto the bed. I dropped our bags in the corner, and just started up a shower. "Nee, Tara-oneesan... That Akechi person... He's a murderer, right?" So she did catch it. "Yeah, i saw it too!" There wasn't just venom there. It was easy for us to notice, but i don't think Joker and Queen realized that aspect.

"What do we do?" Good question. I was pretty sure they beat him and he died anyway, but did i want to wait? I could give them hints, make it easier. Or just tell them... I'll just tell them. I was using all my subtle bones from just saying 'take me into the metaverse with you' and i wanted them to know. "I'll tell them after i'm out!" "Ok!" We talked about a bunch of different stuff. After i was done with my shower, Irina went in to take hers, and i grabbed my phone and went into our girl's group chat.

-Girl's only-

T.S - Wanted to make sure you all knew. Goro Akechi is a murderer. Take and use that to keep yourselves safe.

And with that done, i turned off my phone and laid down. Irina came out of her shower, and joined me in bed. We got ready, and Natsu found his place under my bust and we went to sleep. I'd see how that was taken tomorrow.

{Akira's POV}

The day was another strange one. It started normally. He woke up, went downstairs to use the bathroom and start his day, then he listened in to Tara Sakura's rant about Irina's boyfriend. Hearing that as he helped Sojiro was an experience. He'd known dense people. Hell, his best-friend was pretty much in the same situation as Irina and the Issei guy he heard about. The rant itself was funny, and the thought of her kicking him through a tree gave him an image that was both amusing and concerning. That was a-lot of force. And he got up a few minutes later and walked it off? That seemed suspicious. But it was something he could file away for later. The fact that she stuck to Irina's promise, despite how much she clearly didn't want too, gave Akira another bit of insight towards her character. She seemed to be a woman of her word, and he'd work with that when he was given the chance.

When Ann and Makoto came in, the girls left and Sojiro was just working the counter and the beans. Akira helped him out with the place for a bit more, then left. Today, he had a plan. He'd go spend some time with Ryuji, and relax at the arcade, and at night, he would check in with Chihaya... Which he was still a small bit annoyed with. He'd worked hard for that money, and it was all for a crystal of salt! Sure, the metaverse made it hard for them to worry about money, but it still irked him about losing that much. Akira found Ryuji at the arcade, and they hung-out. Akira didn't really care about the fact Ryuji's rank wouldn't increase from this, he just wanted to hang-out with his best-friend. After they were done with that, they decided to head back to Leblanc, and then his day took the turn. "I have a crush on Ryuji ok!" Hearing and seeing Ann shout that, his brain needed a second to see they were looking at them.

Akira wasn't surprised, he knew. It was kind of hard not too. Even Morgana understood it, and stuck with the bro-code. They had a bet on who would figure it out and confess first, and he won? It was accidental, but it was still Ann so he won the bet... He'd figure it out later. He looked at the others, and shared a look with them all, and went over to the seat by Irina, and sat down. He placed Mona under the seat, and they all watched it play out. When Ryuji had finished his nervous speech, they cheered. And then Tara offered to take them to the Wilton. And he was right back into being Joker. He knew the prices and clientele the Wilton catered too, and Tara had casually said she'd take them there? The original 4 thieves knew that was suspicious, but Tara had said they had an all expenses paid stay at the Wilton. He filed that for later, and decided to bring it up there.

The group went to the Wilton, and when they had a reservation to the all you can eat buffet, he knew this needed to be questioned. So after Tara had finished bringing her 5th plate of food, he asked. When she said she was doing a favor by just being there, he knew there was more to this then he knew. Which happened a-lot now when he thought of Tara. After they had finished eating, he decided to stay back a bit and talk with her. He was betting on reading her correctly and her being a woman of her word. And their conversation went great. Getting confirmation that she wasn't a threat and that she'd tell them if she ranked up to 7 was a good sign. Then she asked about what she did. And it took him a second to realize what she meant. Another mystery to file away about Tara Sakura. Akira was also curious, so he closed his eyes and searched the Arcana.

Her 2nd affect was interesting. With the way it was worded, it gave him an clear picture of how it may work and how they'd benefit from it. She seemed interested about that, and seemed curious about how her final rank would turn out. Then, he decided to ask the big questions. He could tell she was truthful. Using 3rd eye and using Arsene's experience helped him read people. And seeing there was no trickery or lie in her eyes helped set him at ease. The rest of the conversations were good. And then the next turn came. Goro Akechi. The detective that seemed to be on to them. Then the news of what Medjed had done. He and Tara had worked together and repelled the detective, but they saw it. Before he left, the detective reacted to Irina's last name, and Joker saw something dark. Something ominous in his eyes. He knew Tara saw it, and he turned to see Queen and Irina had seen it as-well. There was something there, bit he couldn't bring it up. He'd wait for later.

After that, they went back to Leblanc. They group talked and relaxed, and they eventually all left. He later visited Chihaya, and got a very interesting reading. After spending time and ranking up their confidant, he stayed with her for a bit more and eventually left. Once again, it was him and Morgana up in the attic, ready to debrief. "Alright, what do you have Joker?" And as he did the night before, he got in his thinking posture, and started to think about the day. "From what we've seen thanks to Ann, we know Sakura-san is capable, perhaps more then she said. During their spars, Makoto never broke anything, and was only very sore and mildly bruised afterwards. Sakura-san has shown that she can control herself enough to keep injuries from happening despite the style she uses. Sakura-san and her family have connections that we didn't expect. The event with Ann and Ryuji shows she's kind and is getting friendly with the girls. The girls are also warming up to her and Shidou-san, and Sakura-san has even introduced Makoto to a fellow student council president, and her twin sister Martha Sakura.

Makoto's said they haven't gotten time to talk properly, but that'll probably change in the coming days. As we were walking back, Sakura-san's confidant ranked up, and her new ability is a straightforward and very helpful one." "Lay it on me Joker." "Her rank 2 ability 'Improvements of any kind are slightly easier to be made by you and your companions.' With our exercising and Makoto's interest in martial arts coming out, we'll be able to improve ourselves better for whatever comes up. Threat assessment, still very high. Danger? Almost none. Sakura-san has given her word to not only tell us she won't be a threat to us and said we'll get an explanation at rank 7." "True. Alright. Time to tell the team!" Joker nodded, and opened his phone to the group chat... And saw it was on fire. He scrolled up, and saw why.

-Group chat-

A.T - ... So... I don't want to scare anyone... But Tara-chan just told me and Makoto something that scares me.

Y.K - Are you ok? What has she said that you believe may cause us to panic?

R.S - Yeah, it can't be that bad... Is it?

A.T - It kind of is... Makoto. Should i say it or do you want me too?

M.N - ... As someone close to this... I need to say it. But i must warn you all to prepare yourselves for this.

R.S - You guys are starting to freak me out? What is it?

Y.K - I believe i am as ready as i can be.

M.N - Ok... And Akira will see this soon... But this is as good as we'll get... Tara-san has told me and Ann that Goro Akechi, detective prince and partner to my sister... Is a murderer and to 'take and use that to keep yourselves safe.'

And then the reactions came. Ryuji had started to freak out, and Yusuke had gone quiet. But they weren't the only ones reacting. "WHAT!" Morgana had gone wide eyed at the news, and Joker himself was digesting it. Then he tried to rationalize it.

-Group chat-

A.K - Maybe they were casualties due to his line of work? Self defense?

Alibaba - I'll have to shut you down there. I've checked the police database, and there are no reported instances of a weapon discharge or a case of self defense that has been documented for 'Goro Akechi.' Either Tara Sakura has lied, or there is more to the 'Detective Prince' then meets the eye.

A.K - Oh... Well now we'll need to be careful. Akechi seems to be on to us, but there's no evidence that can be brought forward so none of us can be brought in. From now on, no-one is to be alone with Akechi. I'll try to keep getting a read on him, and we'll go from there. We can ask Sakura-san what she means about this tomorrow. For now, let's go over the day and talk about what's new. And thank you for the information Alibaba.

Alibaba - No problem. And that gets me into that. I've observed you all enough to understand you have no way to fight an enemy like Medjed, and that you have figured out my identity... So in light of the situation, if you change my heart i will deal with them for you. On one condition.

A.K - What is your condition?

Alibaba - I wish for Tara Sakura to be there.

A.K - May we know why?

Alibaba- No. My reasons are my own.

A.K - Ok. Do you want us to come by tomorrow?

Alibaba - The sooner the better yes.

A.K - Ok. We can work with that. Right everyone?

Y.K - I am fine with the condition.

M.N - So am i.

R.S - I'm cool with it.

A.T - I'd feel safer with her around.

A.K - That works. Looks like i'll be cashing in her offer to help with our next target sooner then i thought.

M.N - What?

R.S - When'd she offer that?!

A.K - Before we met Akechi. After her confidant increased, i asked her if she would be a threat to us. She stared at me and told me she would not be. She gave me her word and then offered to help us with our next target. From this morning, we can believe Sakura-san is a woman of her word. 3rd eye helped tell she was giving me the truth.

A.T - That actually makes me feel better. And hey, maybe we can sic her at Akechi?

R.S - I'd pay to see that shit!

M.N - It is reassuring to know that she is an ally. A mysterious one who hits like a truck, but an ally nonetheless.

Y.K - Ah yes, how are you feeling Makoto? The video of your spar was an interesting subject.

M.K - I'm... Sore. Nothing was broken, and i'm just sore. I'll be better tomorrow due to my persona.

Y.K - Interesting. Anyway, i believe i read Sakura-san's confidant ranked up. What new ability does that grant us Akira?

A.T - Oh yeah, i saw that too. What's it do? Is it good?

A.K - It's an interesting one. 'Improvements of any kind are slightly easier to be made by you and your companions.' It's straightforward and easy enough to understand. I'm just curious as to how it'll work. Will we subconsciously know or will we consciously know how to improve? Either way, this'll help us in the long run.

Y.K - AMAZING! THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS ABILITY ARE ABSOLUTELY OUTSTANDING!

R.S - Uhhh... You good man?

Y.K - I am great! Just think. If it works consciously, i may be able to gain further insight into my art!

M.N - Hmmm. Yusuke has a point. As it says 'any kind' that can also include academics. And since i am training again, this may help me with my [Aikido.] The benefits of this are far-reaching. I wonder how far this will improve as her rank rises. Are you able to see the name of her next ability?

A.K - Yes. Her next ability is called ' Leader's intuition.' I have ideas, but at the rate we seem to be going, we'll probably know by tomorrow.

M.N - Hmmm. What about the name's of her 1st and 2nd abilities. We didn't cover them.

A.K- Of course. The name of her 1st ability is 'Light in the dark' helps understand the ability. Her 2nd ability is called 'Discipline.' Simple as it's description.

A.T - Huh... Didn't you 2 talk about discipline before your spars Makoto?

M.N - We did. We compared the disciplines our styles impart onto us, and how ours were polar opposites.

Y.K - Fascinating. Perhaps i should ask if she'd be willing to model for me in a stance as well.

A.T - Maybe we should save that for later?

A.K - Ann's right. Let's save that for later and end the conversation here. Tomorrow we'll meet up and talk to Alibaba about stealing her heart.

Alibaba- Nice. I'll let Sojiro know i've asked to talk to you all. He shouldn't try to impede any of you with my go-ahead... And i'll tell him you are allowed to know of my past. That should make the process easier for you.

A.K - Thank you Alibaba.

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