Chapter 5

Through Iron and Blood are we forged. In that do we rise.

I woke up to a new day with the sun beginning to rise. I only grumbled for a minute cursing the sun before getting up for a shower and starting a plan for the day.

I will investigate that subway entrance to see if it is a stray nest. If it is, it's combat experience. If it's not and empty then it's a new base. I have a new budding hate for the Shinto and, to an extent, Yasaka. Her cousin is a bitch and will get a chainaxe or a bolt pistol round. After the shower a set of carapace armor and helm were made alongside a new device to hold everything in while on the move. A digital box using the same idea as digital weapons. Koriel had been surprised at the idea and the suggestion more because that was a genius idea to her. She grumbles and hates that they never considered that before. I don't rub it in her face as I place the equipment into the digital holder that was in the shape of a keychain with the symbol of Mars. Despite the gleeful feeling it soon vanished as I began to plan this out carefully.

I also get my scanner for Issari and prepare for my next encounter with Rias. Akeno's remark means Rias is desperate. Akeno didn't have a choice, but given here was very likely being grimdark, Rias probably couldn't be better. I don't know what Rias's situation is, but I will research it.

Soon the very familiar schedule of weights and push-ups starts and ends before a breakfast of eggs is made. Midway through the meal Issari texted me and asked me if I was still going to be running this morning. I answered yes and that I would be at the park in a half hour. The smiley face that she sent was funny and might be the only comic relief I get. Plus, she is vastly more tolerable than base Issei. She still has the same dream and perverse nature, but is not completely helpless like him. I just hope she doesn't try to bone me as she had been giving me looks last night.

That thought continued to linger as I exited the house. I was surprised when I see a weird thing across the street in front of one of the neighbors' houses. A small black cat. It was watching the street while enjoying the sun. It was not totally weird, but it was strange, and I must have been paranoid about Himura. I grow grim thinking of her till the idea of her seeing my human face glaring down at her in triumph. Oh, that would be the best feeling. Damn trash supernaturals with that attitude.

I watch the sunbathing cat in suspicion as I begin to jog towards the park. On the way there I wave to several other people who are out early. At the park, I sit on a bench near the fountain and wait for Issari. Something then happens that makes me groan.

Coming to the center of the park is Kiryuu looking around the park at everyone longer than is acceptable, and she has a slight nosebleed. She, however, is extremely pretty and is wearing a very good-looking dress and skirt of light blue and white. I don't react to her, and her eyes hit me, and then her nose bleeds get worse. Kiryuu continues on her way, and I see why. She is following after a very good-looking man who is jogging. I don't want to get this universe. Grimdark yet so driven by the horny. I just keep relaxing, waiting for Issari.

The og pervert entered the park very relaxed. She was in the same joggers' clothes as last night and quickly saw me. She once here asked me something in clear concern.

"You really okay from last night, Gregor-kun?"

I got up off the bench before replying as we began our run.

"I am Issari-chan it was just a weird thing. I didn't talk about it because I am trying to leave the past behind."

Issari is still worried.

"You don't have to say much to me. I immediately got that you were private though it does explain why you seem kind of paranoid. I don't think I would not be that way if that happened to me."

I'm paranoid for other reasons but that works.

"I don't want that to happen to me again. I guess I should be glad for the crash as I only remember the hot poke and nothing else. I don't remember very much before earlier this year. Still I'd rather build something new than maintain the old life but I will try with my cousin as she doesn't seem like a bad person. Maybe she will try to hook up with you. I know you looked at her."

Issari blushed heavily as we passed near a tree.

"Her eyes are pretty, and that other thing is really good. I'm not sure if that will work. I still want it."

I chuckled.

"I want a redhead, but there so far has only been the weirdo. I'm not picky, however, and can work with anyone who is willing to try."

Issari widened her eyes.

"Really? That's what you want? That color? I'd finally guessed it was a blonde."

I laughed as the reason for my love of redheads was here.

"When I have more money, Issari-chan, I'll introduce you to the game I played that got me into them. It was a game that I do remember from my time in the States that sold them to me. The character was very interesting, and I liked her logical thinking along with the hair."

Issari brightened in curiosity.

"Is the game good?"

I smiled thinking of said redhead who had a sexy accent, too. Even Kate admitted to that after she had stolen my computer for six months playing that game. She was sold on the character by the second week and became her go-to romance.

"It's incredible. There are very interesting characters and there is someone you'd probably like. Well, two, actually. One is a swordsman and the other is an assassin like you. You seem to really like blondes, and they are both that. Just be ready for some dark turns later on in the story."

Issari grew increasingly interested hearing all that and actually panted hearing swordsman. I chuckled because that character was funny. Just liked cheese too much. Issari got a very determined look in her eye.

"You had me at swordsman. That's my main thing same with women. I'm now down to play this game to the end."

I smirked as Kiba might be in horrible trouble. Yeah, Excalibur is the bishop's goal, but blaming the object and not him is bad logic.

"He's a good character with a very good twist for him, too. It's fantasy, so there is magic, but it's a decent thought-out one and makes sense."

It can eventually lay the groundwork for explaining the warp to Issari. I can't hide that fact from her forever. You have to start somewhere, and the warp is the heart of the Warhammer universe. Understanding it even a little bit helps explain harder concepts like multiple realities. Issari grew increasingly interested.

"Magic is cool and I wish it was real. I'm now invested. Maybe I can help get this game?"

I shook my head at that.

"My recommendation my money. You might not like it; better I use my money so that way, if you don't like it, I can replay it and see my waifu."

Issari barked out laughing at that spooking a nearby woman who was heading toward us. She quickly crossed the street to get away from that as the laugh was one of thirsting perverts. Issari stopped laughing.

"That's an extremely good plan. This character must be good for you to do that."

I smile very broadly.

"Oh, she is great. She is an excellent character with a great twist and story. I'm out of luck and I don't think the redhead here is bad however she gave off a weird feeling. I will try not to make our first meeting the basis of the relationship we might have."

Issari smiled with definite hearts in the eyes.

"I think you are like your cousin said. You're trying for her when you barely remember her like you did with me. You really are my best friend."

I just smile as we were two opposite sides of the same coin.

"You're my best friend too, Issari-chan. You haven't stared at my ass, so that was the final selling point."

She laughed again, and it was genuine laughter this time. I do catch something strange again as I'm looking backward. It's that cat from earlier. It's now following behind us. I narrowed my eyes towards what might be Kuroka. Or am I just too paranoid again? I ask Issari as we pass by a guy in business attire.

"You seem good at watching your surroundings. You spotted my cousin last night before I did. You notice the cat following us?"

Issari stopped laughing.

"I did, but that cat is normal. It's a stray that's been here countless times. You're being paranoid again, but since your cousin followed you last night, I get it. This swordsman, how sexy is he!"

Of course, you focus on that.

"I'm not into dudes, but I believe the general consensus is that he is extremely attractive."

She grinned pervertedly while I kept watching that cat. I decided to do an experiment by changing our direction to the left. Issari followed me as did the cat. I let it continue following us then ten minutes later, I changed directions again to the right. The cat continued to follow with its eyes watching me intensely. Issari is amused.

"It likes you. Cats often choose the ones they like. I want a cat, but my mom is allergic to them, as well as dogs."

Yes, however, there are youkai here. I asked, amused at Issari.

"Let me guess you had fish."

Issari blushed.

"I miss Swimmy-kun. He went to fish heaven."

I'm more amused.

"Oh, the fishmanity. I'd like a cat too they are incredibly funny animals with lots of personalities."

That was said loud enough for the potential stalker while Issari mumbled again.

"Swimmy-kun was the best fish. He enjoyed floating around his tank. Then, my best friend Irina killed him by not remembering to feed him for one week. She was never good at pet stuff and she lost ten fish that way."

That's funny Irina is the enemy of fish.

"If I ever meet her, I'm going to call her Fish Skull Taker."

Issari giggles at the new nickname.

"Irina the Fish Skull Taker! I have to write that down. That reminds me Gregor-kun my parents want to meet you, especially my mom."

I am amused.

"Let me guess she hopes that I will be your husband."

Issari nervously laughed.

"No…."

I raised an eyebrow at her again before she started sweating badly. I just kept my brow raised and she began to poke her fingers nervously together. Then, finally admitted the very obvious answer.

"Yes she thinks you must be a miracle worker."

Mrs. Hyoudou was always a good mom.

"I'd be happy to meet them. Your mom, however, is funny. When is the best time, and where do you live?"

Issari smiled before explaining her home address to me and that Sunday would be best. We continued the jogging until we reached the park all the while the cat kept following us. I smiled at Issari and then bid her goodbye with a wave.

I began to jog to the forest near my home, and the cat continued to follow. My plan is simple make an offer out loud. If it is Kuroka, I will talk. If it's not, I will get the cat a place to live. Not with me I can't pay for a cat with my budget. The cat seems, other than its hyper fixation on me, like it really is a stray. It's just being a sussy baka, and you're not suspicious enough if they are out to get you. As I entered the forest, I touched my keychain and mentally ordered my axe to me.

It appears, and I keep it hidden in front of me before I say to the open and in a not amused voice.

"Cat, you have been following me, and you and I are not stupid. Show your true self."

There was silence. No answer or a meow. It was like that for five minutes. I prepared to return the axe to its container. Perhaps I was the sussy baka and not the cat.

Just before I returned it an extremely amused laugh came. It was musical and was sexy and I know this voice.

"A smart human, nya. I usually don't get caught, but you saw through me. I'm intrigued, nya."

It's Kuroka, as I suspected. Probably here to check on Shirone. I don't face her but say again with that same voice from before.

"I'm not amused, cat. I'm here in a town that has a dark side, and you followed me. I don't need that right now. Why?"

There was no response for a second.

"You move like a hunter, nya. You know the tactics for one. You're an ambush predator in training, nya. You look like you could be strong. I like strong nya. Need a possible mate, that is that."

I don't face her again.

"I am at the bottom. I must become that to avoid being killed. As for your mate, I'm not into abductions. You are dangerous, and I don't know what you want. You could be from the ones who rule this town and I'm not interested in them or what they can offer."

Kuroka smiles before the purr of a very thirsty woman comes.

"You are indeed becoming that nya. I'm not with them either, and I'm not into rape. I am curious about you, nya. Tell me your name, handsome, and I'll tell you mine. Turn around I want to see your eyes, nya."

I slowly turn to see Kuroka in the same dress as the anime with her tails and ears out. There is however one difference I didn't expect. She has a single wave of red hair on her right side, while the rest is black. Probably an illusion to get me to fall for her. I look her in the eyes. She studied my axe and the yellow eyes did not understand the design or the teeth. I don't back down from her.

"I'm not telling you anything till you drop the illusion on your hair. You're using that to lure me into accepting you. I'm not a horny teenager. I don't want to fight you, but I will."

Kuroka gives an impressed smile. She, again, surprised me because she didn't lie.

"It's real. My dad was an Irish man, nya. It is the only thing I got from him. I heard that, but it didn't influence me, nya. Let's try this again. I'm Kuroka, and who are you, nya?"

I kept looking at her with a million questions including why is she not with Team Vali. Is this her recruiting for them?

"Gregor. Speak plainly, Kuroka. Why, besides the strong mate part? You're a nekoshou, so I believe that is partly the reason."

Kuroka smiled more. She's damn sexy. No wonder she is a wet dream. This time, her smile is genuinely impressed.

"You know your youkai well, Gregor. It is partly that, nya. The truth is something that is always complex. I'm here on family business nya. You, however, make me want to stay."

I show a bit of my knowledge now.

"I have heard of the name Kuroka. You're supposedly a criminal and a very dangerous one, too. I'm not going to let you possibly bring more heat down on me if that is the case. Yet there are two sides to a story with the truth somewhere in the middle."

Kuroka doesn't flinch from the accusations.

"I am a criminal and I am dangerous. I like your intelligence, nya. I killed a devil who did extremely cruel things to me and the rest of the peerage I was in. I have no intention of making my possible smart mate get into trouble nya. I do appreciate you acknowledging me correctly. Tell me why the axe and its unique design nya."

I don't back down again, making her smile more.

"The other side doesn't fight fair why should I? I'm at the bottom, abused by a world that has things that see me as nothing. I will make my way to my goals over the bodies of the ones who try to push me down. I believe you about your story so perhaps we can get along. I have need of information. Perhaps a deal if you want."

Kuroka smiled, extremely thirsty. Her teeth are on full display.

"You definitely have my attention on the deal and on the sexy side, nya. I see you and see a new potential mate who isn't afraid of the odds. It's amusing to think a human will win against them, but my dad said that you should never underestimate a human when they want something and have a goal nya. You have gear, and you're looking like a better option than the other one I have been considering. I want a strong mate and I think that you're it."

I sighed because that meant she was not in the Chaos Brigade yet. She is however now ultra down bad for me, but know thy enemies.

"I want to know how many strays are in the city and more information. I want to make Kuoh and, eventually, the world safer. You, however, want something I can't give you. I'm not a horny teen and real things like that are built off more. What else do you want besides the mate?"

Kuroka's smile was still extremely thirsty and she is very close to Issari's levels of perversion right now.

"A safe place to hide. As I said, I like you better, nya. The other option is good, but the crew is not favorable. Nice dude who is deadly along with strong but he wants to battle for battle's sake and I like dreams better nya. As for information, I might know things. Your friend discounted me nya. You're living up to your stated desire to climb to the top. I'll share information for a safe place nya."

She is deadly, but she has information and a possible connection to Vali. I, however have several concerns, especially Shirone. She is denying her cat side, but there are things she could catch like scent and I have a budget.

"I have issues that are bothering me before I agree. Scent: cats have an extremely strong sense of smell. I will guess that youkai are like that, too. You said you're on family business; thus, another nekoshou is here in the city. Your criminal status brings additional problems along with some other things like heat."

She smirked and was not so thirsty this time.

"You are correct about the guess and the smell, but I know a good number of spells, nya. I would be caught easily if I didn't take that into account like you clearly are. As for heat, I have good news I'm not high on the hunter's list nya. Laying low for several years and with recent upsurges in the last two by a group called the OSF, the vast majority of the devils and their forces are busy hunting them. I'm just tired of eating the scraps and want a bed nya. Especially if it's with a sexy human who is going to be my mate. You're very good-looking, and I can already imagine the kittens that are like their dad nya Green hair and with my yellow eyes. I get that I will have to earn that and I am interested in how you will get to the top, nya. I can pull my own weight and don't do free handouts."

That's better, and she might not just be the lusty black cat girl. She does look a bit rough looking slightly skinny, and her hair is ratty-looking.

"I have a couch you can sleep on along with food. However I'm on a harsh budget and as for how it's a secret. We are not yet friends and I will have other rules that are non-negotiable. I will believe you. Don't betray that."

Kuroka smirked happily. The cat that got the canary. I do something that is a warning. I activated my chainaxe, and the roar made her back up a step. She grew wary there before the thirsty smirk returned.

"A warrior nya. Yes, you do have the balls I'm looking for in a mate. I will agree to them nya. I can keep to a budget and I do want to get to know my possible sexy mate. Lead the way, Sexy nya."

I deactivated the axe, letting the blades still before I put it on my keychain, and the small flash of light made Kuroka widen her eyes in surprise. She is interested in that. I then began to lead the way but said.

"The lock for the front door is unique. Be in human form without the tails and ears. I'll key you into it, and it alone. The basement is off-limits, as is my room during the night. I expect you to keep the house clean, and I will get you a bed. What will our story be?"

Kuroka nodded, and then her tails and ears receded, and she put an illusion on her dress, turning it into joggers' clothes of black. She came up to me and kept smiling.

"Roommates so it's easier to keep the lie up, nya. I agree to the basement and the room. I will pull my weight, and I get to learn more about you, nya. I'm good with just a couch if that's all you got. What was the light, nya?"

I began to jog with her towards the house.

"A nugget for my new roommate. Any advanced enough technology is indistinguishable from magic. Be prepared to see lots of that. Because the machine is immortal, Kuroka-san."

Kuroka was amused and very interested.

"A scientist warrior. You're definitely growing up my list of potential mates, nya. I dig scientists. You make me want to know more and drop the san nya. I grew up in Ireland and never got into that, unlike my sister. She is too stuffy, and I prefer the Western ways myself, nya."

Maybe Shirone is like the normal Ravel but what does that make Ravel?

"I grew up in the States, so I understand but I would rather be respectful. I will drop it for you. I'm interested in stray nests. I saw an abandoned subway entrance nearby, and it intrigued me. Know if it is one?"

We jogged and didn't pull much attention. Kuroka answered while her eyes looked at me in curiosity.

"It is one nya. The stray, in particular, is a single pawn devil. He is not terribly strong, and the reason for his status is not good. He tried to kill his master after she forced him not to attempt to abduct a human woman he wanted. Make his death painful, nya. I despise rape, and it is something that I will kill for if it's true."

I nodded.

"How common of a story is that for strays? The reason they run."

Kuroka eyed me again.

"It's fifty-fifty. Most strays run because they have been abused by their kings but there are equally as many that do horrible things in the lust for new power nya. I know all the strays here because they have a place where we all meet. Can't reveal it to you but I can tell you who did what nya. You're thinking about cleaning all the bad ones up."

I nod.

"I am. Who was his master? Because from what I know, devils don't care about us, and the other person who revealed information about them said they hurt humans more than Youkai. She was a bitch, so her story is suspicious."

Kuroka smirked.

"She is correct about them hurting them more, nya. But youkai are not innocent either, so you're right there, too. The pawn, who's named Alec, had his master in a rare, good devil named Seekvaria Agares nya."

That's interesting. Seekvaria is logical and seems to still be a good person. I need confirmation on something though.

"I see. I have a question. Who runs this town?"

Kuroka shrugged.

"It's a powerful person and a relative to the Lord Lucifer. She is extremely intelligent and is a goodish person nya."

So, it's Rias. However, she was not being haughty about her status.

"What is their name?"

We entered the neighborhood, and as we got to the door to my home, Kuroka answered.

"Heniya Gremory nya. The third in the leaderboards of the underworld's biggest gladiator tournaments, nya. They are called the ratings games, nya."

I froze. Rias is not the ruler. What is she then, and why is she here? I put my finger on the lock, and it scans me before beeping. I opened it and gestured to Kuroka to enter. She looks around the room in curiosity. I entered, then, shut the door, and said with a firm voice.

"Hand, please. The scanner for the lock is extremely sensitive, and it will need a special kind of person to break it. This Heniya Gremory. How many siblings do they have?"

Kuroka looks at me with her sexy smirk before extending her hand to mine. I take it and hold it up to the scanner after typing in the command in high Gothic to accept a new user. Kuroka replied after the scan was completed.

"She has two. Her oldest brother is Lord Lucifer while her younger sibling is a girl named Rias."

Rias not being a heiress is strange. She is like Riser in being a third child. That can be good or bad but she seemed humbler yesterday. Just a bit sadder. It explains the acting prowess if that's the case. You learn to lie easily when you are like that.

"This Rias I would like to know more about her. Would you like something to eat and or drink?"

Kuroka brightened up at the mention of food.

"I would definitely love some actually cooked food, nya. Been getting sick of eating things that are leftovers. What would you want to know about the girl, nya? She isn't much to talk about. Very few people are interested in her. I would ignore her myself if it wasn't for the fact my sister is in her peerage nya. She's not very powerful and is the equivalent of a devil nobody."

That's not good. I pity Rias as Akeno's words make more sense. She is trying to get out of her sibling's shadows and is willing to do anything there. Why was she up here though? I make my way to the kitchen and then ask what Kuroka wants as she follows me. She's fine with whatever as long as it's warm and hot. I ask.

"Why is she considered weak?"

Kuroka sits at my small table and watches as I cook her a midday breakfast of eggs before answering.

"She is considered weak because she didn't inherit her mother's talent for the power of destruction. A family lineage power, nya. She is a nobody, and my sister deserves a better king."

Poor Rias she is in the same situation as canon Sairaorg. That's horrible and on top of being the extra spare if Milicas is a thing she might have serious issues. Base Rias was strong, just lazy, but here, she might not be training because she doesn't see the point of it if she is being considered truly weak. Why her desperation to get strong pieces to get her recognition and help get out of the shadows? My back is to Kuroka, and I actually feel horrible for Rias. I don't know how desperately she is trying, but I ask again.

"I see. Your sister is she powerful, then? "

Kuroka's voice takes on an extreme tone of love and fondness.

"My Shirone is strong. Her punches are very good, and she could be a good devil king, nya. I don't get why she puts up with a weakling like that. My sister is a softy nya. She doesn't get that the strong govern the weak follow. She is happy there, so I will concede a bit that her king must treat Shirone well, nya."

I get Kuroka now she's not truly against Rias just worried for her sister. Because the last part was honest, I finished the food and began dropping it onto plates and then let the pan cool while I brought the food over to my new roommate. Kuroka brightened more and gratefully took the plate and fork. I grabbed ketchup and put it on the table after having my eggs smothered in it.

Kuroka began to pig out while I ate slowly and watched her. Rias might be in a worse situation than base reality. If there is a contract, then it's probably a kinda good thing to get Rias a good life. She is a relative of Sirzches and of this older sister. I will, when I reveal my knowledge of the other side to Akeno, ask about the situation because it's not a good picture so far. Kuroka finished and then burped loudly amusing me.

"This stray does he have gear? Or is he a different type of supernatural creature?"

Kuroka, let's lose a content smile at actual food.

"He's a regular human, nya. No gear but he is a good martial arts guy."

Interesting, but why have that in a peerage for a possible heiress? It's clear on my face because Kuroka answered, amused.

"It was because he is a Gundam fan like his king nya."

I snort amused which got us snickering together. Kuroka seems fun and we might get along well. We finally stopped when I got a text. I asked for permission to look at it with an eyebrow while she snickered again.

"You're good. What else do you have for food, nya? I'm starving, and you're definitely mate material. I have questions of my own, nya. Your gear I have never felt it before it's like a blast furnace. You're a scientist or an engineer, so the answer is probably interesting nya."

I looked at the text, and it was Akeno. She wants to meet me at the park soon, and she is asking me if she can bring a friend. It's either Rias or someone else from the peerage. I needed information from her, so I answered that yes, it's fine before answering Kuroka.

"The fridge is yours. Just don't eat everything. Like I said, my budget is harsh. As for my gear, it is interesting. Lots of potential and will amaze people. It could be the way to things long thought impossible. You're cool so far, too, Kuroka. However, I don't think you can win with me."

Kuroka took the end as a pure challenge.

"I like a challenge like you seem to as well, nya. You are incredibly interesting with that claim. Dreams thought impossible, nya. You're not coming off as arrogant, and you're calculating things. I think you're definitely a definite better choice than the battle fanatic nya. He is a very good person, and he is strong however, he was also arrogant. He claims he will kill his rival in the red one despite the fact, the white one lost the last round, nya. His boss is a very suspect figure who is gathering people around them that are the worst on our side of the world. It would be safer there, but I'm not interested in that. I just want my sister safe, nya."

So, Vali is indeed the white one and the Brigade being its typical bad self. I know Issari is the red one having tested her during the walk while she was doing her manic pervert laughing. I don't want her dead because of Vali and Ophis is the problem if it is her still in charge.

"I understand that. Protecting people. I want that, too for everyone on our planet. Because despite my issues with the other side, I don't hate them. I hate the institutions that abuse humans and the supernatural, who are not powerful enough to do anything. That was why I was curious about Rias. My cousin is also in her peerage."

Kuroka smiles at me in understanding before widening her eyes at the last part.

"You are interesting, nya. You keep making me more interested in you. A handsome potential mate who is truly speaking out of concern for others nya. A human who is not afraid of the world they risk pissing off royally. Why is my question."

I lay the brick.

"There are worse things out there potentially. Nightmares that might make what we have here look like ants. Despite the fact that we are different in our base natures you with the tails and ears or me just being a regular human we can get along fine. What I worry about are things that are completely alien to us. Because we despise the wrong possible things here and I fear the worst for us if we don't look outward instead of inward."

Kuroka looked at me intensely thinking over the words, proving my guess that she was intelligent, too. She then snickered at her conclusion.

"You're an alien believer. You're funny, nya. There is no proof of them. You're worrying about nothing, nya."

I raised an eyebrow.

"You're funny in thinking there is nothing out there. There is no proof of there not being there either, but magic is real along with you a creature of legends being are real like the rest of the supernatural world. I'd rather be suspicious about them and be proven wrong than not be suspicious about them and suffer from them. That is the viewpoint of someone from the bottom. You're viewing it from a stronger perspective."

Kuroka stopped snickering as her eyes watched me again.

"A fair point. You are still silly, nya. Your point is logical yet xenophobic. Good evidence but I err on the side of optimism nya. You, however, are correct in my viewpoint It is one of strength."

I concede.

"My view is of weakness. We aren't going to get rid of the doubt or lack of doubt. I prefer to remain impartial till the evidence proves or disproves the theory. I'm going to go get ready for a shower and then do some lifting enjoy your food."

Kuroka snorted her amusement, but she purred horny now.

"I'll take the eye candy and your logical nya. We will get along fine."

I get up and then tuck my chair in.

"Logic is the key to victory, and I am not a loser."

With that, I go to my bedroom down the hall with Kuroka watching my ass. She looks like she is nineteen and I'm not interested in the relationship if it's just a one-night stand. Yet I'm not interested in being alone either now that I'm immortal so I will consider her.

My shower is enjoyable, and when I come out, I dress for lifting. When I returned to the front part of the house, I saw Kuroka eating a sandwich. She followed me into the front room, and I sat down on the bench and began to lift. Kuroka sits on the couch munching on her food. After finishing, she started her next question.

"Your interest in Rias Gremory. Why do you worry about her so much, nya?"

I start at ten pounds.

"Because she is manipulative and abused a situation with my cousin to get a closer look at me. That and the new information you have provided leads me to conclude that she will do anything to solve something. I don't want to become a devil and I don't know if I can with something I have."

Kuroka must be frowning because she clearly shows that in her next words.

"That is troubling nya. Why do you think that? The inability to reincarnate nya."

I get to the next limit.

"I have something that is considered impossible. I don't understand the reincarnation system that I heard about. How knowledgeable are you in it?"

Kuroka clearly enjoyed the eye candy by the way she spoke next.

"Not well and no one outside the maker does, nya. He is extremely secretive and reclusive. Still, I'm interested, nya. What is this thing, nya?"

I shrugged getting to ten.

"It's another secret. I'm not going to like what I hear from them if I meet them."

Kuroka doesn't seem mad.

"Oh, very fair he is trouble, nya. I have a question about the cousin. Which member is it, nya? There are two others, and you don't look like any of them."

I get to twenty.

"It's the teaser with black hair. I'm worried about her. Something is extremely fishy about the situation because her king acted strange. Like she is in a hole that she can't get out of. You know anything about that?"

Kuroka thinks as I get to twenty-five pounds easily and keep lifting.

"I heard very little about her at all. No one pays attention to her because of her weakness nya. I do know she is looked down on by her grandparents. The only other thing I can think of is she is in a betrothal arrangement with a family called the Phenexs nya. However, it's not public knowledge."

That's the same so Rias is not in a good position.

"It's more than what I knew. I heard the Phenexs have special things like supposed immortality along with something to do with a healing item?"

"They have both, but the family is very strange, nya. They have a rift right now between the parents and the kids. The eldest son was recently caught in a scandal that divided the house nya."

That's weird.

"What's the scandal about?"

"The eldest son was caught doing something that is extremely liberal by supporting reincarnated. The house is extremely conservative nya. The family has split, with the daughter and mother supporting the heir and the second son supporting his father."

So, normal devil stuff, but why is it so weird on the split? If there was tension at home, it does explain why Ravel was up here with her mom.

"What is the second son's name? Going off your statement, the reincarnated are most likely slaves, aren't they."

"They are all but slaves, nya. As for the second, they are named Riser. He is especially cruel to his pieces, nya. The worst part is his reincarnated queen helps him."

After saying that, Kuroka froze just like I did as we share the same brain cell. I look to her and her to me now filling in the blanks.

"That explains it. I'll try to help her. For both our family."

We outcasts eye each other. Kuroka softened her yellow eyes at me.

"You're a good man, nya. Helping me out there and here. I'm a stranger and a criminal, nya. They are also strangers. You would make a great mate, but how do you justify that, nya?"

I think of Rias and her desperation. She must be so far down if Riser is like that to reincarnated who are the weakest. I'm worried for Akeno and Shirone as Riser now seems to be a prick of a higher order.

"Be the change you want to be and I won't change the world by doing nothing. You probably had good reason to kill your king. I'm a good judge of character and I look beneath. Your story makes more sense than the official version that you went suddenly mad. People don't just go instantly mad easily and it takes an ultra-extreme thing to do that."

Kuroka looked surprised before she smiled a genuine smile.

"Your friend is right, nya. You are definitely mate material."

I caught the clock time. I need to get ready for Akeno and probably Rias then the stray. I leave Kuroka to get my clothes and prepare my plan.

"Have fun, Kuroka. If you need a shower, it's connected to my room. I'll be back later tonight and don't perv on my stuff."

She laughs.

"I'm thirsty but not your friend. She is a thirsty woman, nya. I'm going to enjoy a nice long nap. Have fun with your hunt, Sexy nya."

I snark back.

"Since we are giving nicknames, you better be good, Bad Cat."

That makes Kuroka laugh more.

"Oh, that's good. Your name for the fish killer is good, too, nya. You're definitely fun and I'll like it here, nya. Much better company."

That's your base cannon nickname.

"Sleep in you bum. I'll be quiet when I get back. See you."

"Oh, I will. Have fun, nya."

With that, I left my home and prepared to meet Akeno. I'm not looking forward to this but I don't think it will be avoidabl. I feel for Rias as she is in a horrible situation.

When I get to the park, I don't see Akeno or Rias. I do more warmups and five minutes before the agreed time, Akeno and Rias show up both in form-fitting clothes. Rias looks at me with such horrible hope while Akeno just brightens up significantly. A real smile there compared to Rias's fake one. I waved to Akeno.

"Keno, it's good to see you. Rias-san, it's good to see you again."

Akeno and Rias smiled before Akeno greeted me.

"Gregor, I'm happy you're here and I'm eager to get to know my cousin again. Rias wanted to say."

Rias gently interrupted there.

"I'm sorry for the strange behavior yesterday, Gregor-san. I was just trying to help Akeno."

I see it and hear it Rias is depressed thinking I hate her. I hate the base version of her. There she is, a horribly spoiled brat who eventually becomes better. Here she is just a little person who is stuck in a world where she doesn't have the advantages the base her has.

"You don't have to be sorry, Rias-san. I was rude, too. Let's start over with a new slate of iron. I promised Keno I would try."

Rias actually gave a real smile. She's beautiful when she really smiles. Akeno beams at me before giving an I told you so, look at Rias. I looked at the two before saying.

"I think I understand why you did that, Rias-san. I have no problem with you just please don't be weird again. My life is enough of that, and I get the feeling it will get weirder."

Rias softly says.

"I truly wasn't trying to be that yesterday. I have family issues."

I smiled.

"So do Keno and me, apparently. I don't think we can't be friends eventually. Keno, you lead you have been around here longer. I would like to learn more about the area."

Akeno beams before we start walking together. Rias tried to stay on the far side of Akeno, but I fell in with her on my right and Akeno on my left. Rias is surprised clearly, she is not used to people trying with her as I ask Akeno.

"What school are you going to, Keno?"

Akeno got a slight smile.

"I'm in Kuoh Academy one of the best schools in the city. You planning to attend?"

"I do I heard that the school has a wonderful engineering program, and I want to do that. I have ideas that are interesting, and I want a school that is willing to take risks. My friend wants to go for a reason you probably saw last night."

We both started snickering while Rias was confused, but her hopeful eyes grew larger when she hears my words. Akeno kept snickering.

"Your friend is a woman on a mission. How did you meet?"

I snickered again because looking back now it was funny, and so was Issari.

"She ran into me at the park. She did her thing, and I was so surprised I unconsciously said something that gave the impression I was the same. She then dragged me into the park and ranted at me for fifteen minutes. We just sort of clicked after that, and we are now stuck together. She is fun when she is motivated the right way."

Akeno joined in snickering with me again while Rias was so lost.

"You're still a bleeding heart. I think that makes you great. Your friend will be trouble for the new school president."

I chuckled.

"Yes and no. Yes, if the president has a six-foot stick up her ass, then I want pictures. No, because I'm not going to let her do something bad."

Akeno laughed again at the comment about the description of what is definitely Sona. Even Rias snickered before she finally spoke up.

"That does describe her well. However, she has a reason for being that way."

I snickered more while Akeno kept laughing and fufufuing.

"She probably does, but it does describe her if it's the person I think it is. Short black hair and purple eyes with glasses?"

Rias smiled.

"That's her. You seem fun Greger-san. Do you plan to join any of the clubs there?"

I smile and keep walking.

"I might, depending on what is there. I plan to try to get one that is interesting. Do you know any good ones, Rias-san?"

Rias brightened horribly again.

"I do. I run one called the Occult Research Club. It's small, but it is a very good one. There is also a kendo club and an engineering club and they are both good, too."

Akeno is watching me very closely now and I sideglance Rias.

"I prefer hard science to the occult but I do have an interest in new schools of thought. I think most of that stuff can be explained with reasoning that is research and evidence-based. However, there are things that are harder to prove or disprove. I'm guessing you're in the club too, Keno?"

Rias was surprised to hear my thought and Akeno replied as we passed by two boys.

"I am Rias is a wonderful club president. You don't have to join on my account."

Rias looks extremely worried now for my answer.

"I'll keep my options open, Keno. I do want to try whatever this is. I'll give you both a definite answer at the beginning of the school year unless something changes. I still have to qualify first. Maybe we can meet up several times a week? Build this until I get a good idea of everything?"

Rias was disappointed with the depression showing horribly and extremely clearly. Akeno understood and tried to direct me away from that sight.

"We can, Lex. I'm free most days of the week. I want to build this too."

I try to help Rias out.

"Rias-san, I think you are okay, but it would be weird to say yes immediately. I'd like to get to know you, too. I truly mean it. Starting over. You should smile more. You are beautiful when you do that."

Rias widened her green eyes to saucer plates with Akeno. Rias kept being that surprised and, like me with Issari, said something unconsciously.

"That's my sister. I'm just plain."

Oh shit I widened my own eyes. How doesn't she believe she's beautiful when she is! Was her attempt yesterday with the hair, not that? Oh, I screwed up badly. What does that say about her family dynamics? Akeno didn't know what to say as we entered into an uncomfortable silence and Rias was still horrified by what she said. I'm embarrassed for fucking up. Rias now gets ready to cry and Akeno tries to fix this.

"Lex. Her family is extremely complex like ours. The only one who really tries for her is her brother. Please don't think less of Rias. Ria, he was just trying to be kind. He didn't know."

That's heartbreaking and Rias prepared to run. She has tears starting to form before I stop her.

"I'm sorry, Rias-san. Please forgive me."

Rias wanted to run still but I touched her shoulder and pulled her into a hug. Akeno softened her eyes, seeing me do this for her friend. I held Rias as she wept into my shoulder.

"I really meant it, Rias-san. You are beautiful. I'm sorry you don't think that."

Kate had been like that, too. She said her family had tried to make her understand she was beautiful but a very cruel remark when she was fifteen destroyed that for her till we got together. I held her in her darkest moments when that returned. She held me when I lost my brother. Rias continued weeping into my shoulder.

Akeno looks at her friend and king with pity and understanding. She joined in the hug as Rias whimpered out.

"No one has ever called me that except my brother or his wife. It's always for my sister or mom. I'm told that I'm never going to be that. You really think that I'm beautiful?"

Oh, Machine God how bad are the Gremory to her? Akeno saw the look of horror looking to Rias for permission to explain. Rias nodded into my shoulder catching it out of the corner of her eye.

"It's not her family its mainly the social circle they are in. They are extremely snooty and her parents and sister do stop it as much as possible, but it still happens. Lex, they don't do what we got."

That settled my fear as I rub Rias's back in comfort. Before I say to her.

"You really are beautiful, Rias-san. I won't lie there. You are not ugly. You will never be that. They are so very wrong. Please believe me."

Rias looks up into my eyes and still has tears, but seeing my honesty and understanding makes her finally believe. She smiled, and I understood why Issei could love her. She said while the tears were slowly drying.

"You are like a real lord. Please help me. No one else is. I just want a person like you who is kind. I don't want anything else in life."

Oh, that's not good. She is that desperate yet this isn't manipulative or anything. I looked into her beautiful eyes.

"I will try. I don't understand everything and I'm lost too. I believe in the strength and certainty of steel and iron but faith can overturn a galaxy and the stars. I will be here for you, Rias like how I'm there for my cousin. Please have it till I understand what this world is like."

At that moment, Rias and I intertwined like the moment Issei did with her in so many other realities. She smiled like Sol and it was truly beautiful in its glory.

"I will try for you, my Lord of Iron. I want to see them too. I want to see the stars and leave this behind."

I widened my eyes at that title. Please don't, universe I can't do this. That's not me and I'm not him. She can't do this to me either. She can't fall in love with me I'm not Issei. I'm just an idiot that shouldn't be here, yet he is not real. She needs hope, and the world is vastly different. Her eyes that smile and the sheer amount of faith it takes to admit this.

"Please do. I'm not that. I'm just a random person who is nothing."

That doesn't shake her.

"I am that too. You, however, are something to me. Please be my something till it gets better."

Fuck I'm not Perturabo. I'm not that man-child. Koriel snarked at me, enjoying the torment and the sheer funniness of it for her.

"You are like him, you idiot. He was a wonderful person to teach, too. Now shut up, you bitch, and take the title. I was making a new design when you started freaking."

I'm not him! Akeno seeing me freaking started fufufuing embracing her teasing nature fully.

"That's a good title. Rias, I'm going to get a pin and put that on him. He is a Lord of Iron."

Oh, fuck you bat rat! Rias started smiling more than ever before she began to giggle happily.

"Only I can call him that Ke. He is my Lord of Iron, not yours!"

They began the evil giggling of extremely good friends as Akeno kept the hurt going.

"He is definitely one. Oh, I want an invitation to the wedding, Ria I'll be a wonderful bridesmaid. I might even see his friend being the best woman. Oh, that would be fun as she would piss off the circle. We must get you and Lex together! You making them kiss your rear would be wonderful!"

Rias giggled more than ever, and I hated how that sound was so good. She is happy. Actually happy not lying happy.

"You will get one. He would be extremely dreamy in a suit."

Machine God damnit. They kept giggling and I don't want this. Yeah, she is a redhead, but there is so much crap there! Her siscon brother and possibly sister. Her protective father and extremely strict disciplinarian mother. Her sister-in-law is Grayfia, the strongest queen in the underworld. Bruh, this is not good. They kept tormenting me and Akeno is pleased by my suffering.

"Oh, we will have so much fun as real sisters, Ria. This is the best thing since sliced bread!"

They kept giggling, and I didn't like this. I wept anime waterfall tears that just made them giggle more. For fuck sake I'm a Skitarii, not a husbando to a redhead who is severely depressed. That momentary anger was gone remembering Kate holding me. That had been the best moments of my life when I got that way. It was that way for her, too, and now Rias. Have empathy you cur. Akeno just led me by the hand while they kept giggling and egging each other on discussing how it would be. Rias, however, does eventually stop yet the smile stays. She instead leaned on my shoulder and looked up at me through the long black eyelashes she had. She smiles, and that is so sexy.

"I will win you over, Gregor. I'm willing to do whatever it takes to get my Lord of Iron."

That last part was said wishfully.

"I'm not a regular teen. I have plans and dreams. To see places that are different. To make history and make the doubters eat my shorts."

Rias smiled.

"I will get my Lord of Iron his dreams like how I will get mine."

She has done it by the new dreamy smile she gives me. Akeno keeps fufufuing up a new unholy storm. I, however, don't want an army of thirsty women chasing me for being a good person. I don't want what Issari wants. Rias kept being happy but if I am going to have her chase me, I will try to actually have her help herself.

"I dream of standing beside a strong partner."

Rias grew sad and then extremely determined to get her desire in me. Akeno is horribly amused, and yet this also seems to answer the likely unspoken question she so badly wanted to ask. I offer to her as the afternoon is now getting cooler.

"I'm willing to talk with you again tomorrow, Keno. I need to do something in a little bit."

Rias stiffened badly and clutched onto my hand tightly. It was if she is afraid I'm going to disappear forever. She gets ready to plead that I stay but Akeno gently pulled her friend and king off me. Seeing that fear increase I help Rias, who is so very broken.

"We can get dinner tomorrow night, Keno. Rias-san probably knows all the best places in the city so we can try again to make the day better for the three of us."

Rias gets tears ready again, but her smile is real. So very real and relieved. I do turn to her, and I say to her again.

"I'm here till the seas boil, and the stars fall, Rias-san. You won't be alone."

She just hugged me and kept hugging me. I look at Akeno, who is amused at my clear discomfort just fufufus at my situation and agrees.

"That's a good idea, Lex, but you probably know what I want to talk about with you tomorrow before dinner."

I smile.

"I do. The conversation will be interesting. I'm not sure what is going on. It's better to get this out early than let it fester and become harder to approach."

Akeno is fufufuing again.

"Ever the logic man again. Yes, and I will hear your side but please hear mine before you make a decision."

I gently began to separate myself from Rias who is reluctantly letting me go. I smile and tell my cousin.

"I want both sides. Then my decision. But it can vary depending on what is learned. I'm open to new things Keno."

Akeno smiles softly.

"It's a long story."

I responded as I began to move away from them.

"I'm sure it is. I'll see you both tomorrow. Thank you for the run. Rias-san, I am really sorry for making you cry. It was and is never going to be my intention."

Rias is still ready to plead with me. Ready to scream her secret to me. Ready to beg me to be the person she so very badly wants. But she just looked down and didn't say anything but goodbye.

"I believe you, Gregor-san. Have a good evening. Please don't hate me."

That was so very sad at the end.

"I don't think I will, Rias-san. I want to get a full picture. Please have a good evening, too."

With that, I smile and begin to move. I feel Rias and Akeno watching me. But this stray needs to die, and I need this battle to truly be forged in Iron and Blood.