Beware My Power Chapter 50: A Taste Of Pain

"I always want to wake up like this," Elros said, grinning. Rias, Akeno, Sona, and Tsubaki were all comfortably sleeping on and around him.

"Mmm… glad you like it," Rias said, yawning awake. She kissed his neck and brought him closer to her, pressing her cheek against his and nuzzling him. "Serafall is right. So warm and cuddly."

"Did you sleep well?" Elros asked.

"Mhm. Very well," she said, smiling. "How about you?"

"Like the dead," Elros said, kissing her head. "Had a dream you four woke me up wearing fishnet dresses. I think you were blowing me."

"Next time," Rias giggled, moving the others girls off him a bit.

"Awesome," Elros said, grinning like a schoolboy. He pulled Rias on top of him and brought her down for a kiss. Rias smiled into the kiss and pushed his arms down, pinning them to the bed as she took control.

"Good thing you're still not 100%. I'll be able to get some fun in at your expense," she said smirking.

"You're one heavenly devil, sweetheart," Elros grumbled.

"Thanks for the compliment," she said, giving him a peck on the cheek. "But seriously - how are you feeling now?"

"Hmm… not terrible. Better, for sure," Elros said, rolling his neck. "Still a bit beat. I think I'm gonna take it easy until our Game & my Duel. Unless I get called away again."

"Can't someone else fill in?" Rias asked, frowning.

"Nope. Besides, as my oath says, no evil shall escape my sight. I'm always ready for the call," Elros said.

"Doesn't mean I have to like it," Rias sighed, laying down on him. "It's still dark outside. Get a little more rest."

"In a bit," Elros said. A thin green construct appeared underneath him and lifted both him and Rias out of bed and close to the gla.s.s door that was now fixed. Rias helped him stand up and led him outside to the balcony. She stood with her back against his chest, his arms wrapped around her stomach as they both took in the cold night air.

"This is nice," Rias said, taking one of his hands and putting it on a breast.

"It is," Elros said, kissing her cheek before resting his head on her shoulder.

"The Ruins of Connection are almost here," Rias said softly. Elros smiled; while he was heading to the start of his mission, he had decided to read some of the books about the Gremory household. His idea of why the Ruins of Connection were so important was corroborated.

"I know. Are you looking forward to it?" Elros asked.

"More than you might think," Rias said, blushing. Elros kissed her blushing cheek, turning her even redder.

"For someone so seductive, you sure do blush a lot. It's cute," Elros teased.

"Don't ruin the moment," Rias pouted, puffing her cheeks a little.

"Sorry," Elros said, smiling and poking her cheek. "But I think I have an idea. I'm looking forward to it, too."

"Really?" Rias asked, turning around and looking up at him. Elros lifted her up and sat her on the balcony, holding her gently.

"Yeah," Elros said. "Like I said - the time I've spent with you has been… hmm…"

"Hmm?" Rias asked.

"I'm trying to think of the right word. Amazing doesn't quite cover it," Elros said quietly. "I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make sure I'm able to spend more time with you."

"The Ruins of Connection… you know, they kind of… engage us. Not completely," Rias added quickly. "But… it's like the next step in a relationship for our family."

"I remember," Elros said, recalling what Venelana & Rias had told him about them. "I'm going to be tested on etiquette, dancing, manners, the history of the family, and that all culminates in a Duel."

"Yup."

"Is it considered bad etiquette and/or manners if you and I f.u.c.k on the dinner table after dancing?" Elros wondered.

"I think so," Rias giggled. "Only if there're other people, though. If we're alone, then it's perfectly fine."

"Excellent. I think I'm going to eat dinner off of you one of these days," Elros said.

"Sounds fun," Rias smirked. "You know, you're supposed to eat caviar off of bare skin, so you don't affect the flavor."

"Ooooh, that sounds fun. And, being the cultured man that I am, I wouldn't want to eat it off a spoon like some philistine. Off your stomach, maybe? Or your b.r.e.a.s.t.s or lips or tongue?"

"All of the above?" Rias giggled, kissing his cheek.

"G.o.d, I love you so," Elros said happily.

"Lips & tongue might add some other flavor, though," Rias said.

"The tastiest flavor," Elros said, kissing her. Rias just smiled in response.

"I wonder who I'll have to fight, though. Is it gonna be you or Sirzechs or someone?"

"Not me. Maybe Zechs," Rias said thoughtfully. "You don't have to win, though. It's more about how you fight than who or if you win."

"When it comes to you, it's all or nothing. I'll win or die trying," Elros said seriously.

"You're sweet," Rias said, smiling.

"Do you have to do anything for the Ruins? Or are you just observing?"

"I'm going to be your partner for each of the events, except the fight. That, I'll just be watching," Rias explained. "Each of the events is going to be proctored, so we'll get a grade for each."

"So it's like a test?" Elros grumbled.

"A little," Rias said, giggling at his reaction. "A ceremonial test, I guess."

"And what comes after?"

"Mmm… I don't know how to answer that, honestly. My parents will be happier, and we'll have a go-ahead to… you know…"

"Marry?" Elros asked.

"Yeah."

"And what do you think of that?" Elros asked, leaning in with a smirk. "What do you think about spending the rest of your life with me?"

Rias gasped as she felt his breath on her neck. He was almost radiating heat; she could feel it from her side. She put her hands on his chest, clutching a bit and pulling him in closer. Elros placed b.u.t.terfly kisses along her shoulder, neck, and cheek before finally reaching her lips. He pulled her closer to him, feeling her heartbeat through her chest.

"I… want to," Rias said softly. Elros smiled and kissed her cheek before letting her down and hugging her close. Rias buried her face in his chest; she couldn't tell if her face was on fire, or if Elros was just really, really warm.

"What about you?" Rias asked softly. "Would you… you know."

"If I didn't, would I have agreed?" Elros asked, kissing her atop her head. "Like I said, I really enjoy spending time with you. Never thought I'd fall this hard for someone, honestly."

"I'm still surprised you did," Rias said.

"No one is more surprised than I," Elros said. "A good kind of surprise, though. I really f.u.c.king love you, Rias."

"And I really f.u.c.king love you too, Elros," she said, kissing him. "The day you landed, I was watching the news with everyone else about vigilantes on Earth. Then a few hours later, you came into my life. It's the biggest coincidence I can think of."

"How long did it take for you to start liking me?" Elros wondered.

"I dunno," Rias said, thinking back. "You're handsome, so I guess that happened pretty quick. But I think the biggest impression on me was how you were able to talk so easily to Gasper. He had a hard time relating to anyone, but he took to you so quickly. After that, when you were willing to Duel for me… I dunno, I think that's when I really started to fall for you. But what about you?"

"Honest answer?"

"Yeah," Rias nodded.

"I mean, you're gorgeous. So that happened immediately. When I heard you talk about how you wanted to change the Devil system, though, is probably when it really happened for me. I love people that try to make things easier for others, I guess. Beyond that, though, it's the little things, I think. The road to love is a journey, I think, not a light switch," Elros said.

"Well said," Rias said, smiling and giving him a quick peck. "I think it helped that you knew enough about the supernatural that I wouldn't have to hide anything from you, but not enough to know… like, have known about me already. I knew you didn't really care about money or status or anything."

"Can't afford to," Elros said, resting his head on her shoulder. "If I did, I couldn't do my job properly. People thinking money buys everything isn't limited to Earth. Sure, not everyone uses money to transact, but plenty of planets have similar systems; and plenty have cla.s.s systems, too. I have to look at everyone equally, though. No amount of money or status can interfere in my duty."

"I think that drew me to you as well," Rias said, tilting her head onto his. "Your entire life has been about being selfless. Even after everything you've been through. I dunno… I don't know if I help or hinder you being a Green Lantern, but it's really… amazing y'know? You always put others first. I think that's what I love most about you. You're a hero, Elros. As well as my hero."

"Makes me happy to hear you say that," Elros said, kissing her cheek. "How lucky am I? The fairest maiden in the land is my girlfriend."

"Mhm," Rias giggled. "Now I'm even more glad that I rejected everyone else."

"No kidding. I wonder how things would've been different if Issei had lost to Riser and then I ended up on your place."

"I think I'd still have ended up with you," Rias said thoughtfully. "You don't seem like the kind of guy to leave a girl in a marriage of convenience."

"Certainly not. I'd have just seduced you away, in that case," Elros chirped.

"Like you'd have to do much work. I was ready to have s.e.x with Issei just to get out of that marriage. Would've if Grayfia didn't stop me. I'd have cheated on Riser the first chance I got," Rias said.

"Issei's as adorable and innocent as Asia, now that I think about it. You wouldn't have had to ask me twice," Elros said.

"Don't I know it. I kinda wish you were more innocent and adorable," Rias said.

"I resent that. I'm Elros Eärendil, Green Lantern of Sector 2814. My very being exudes s.e.x," Elros grumbled.

"You are cute and adorable when you grumble," Rias giggled, ruffling his hair like a kid.

"Even though I've still no idea what happened to me after that mission, I'm happy things turned out how they did."

"You still don't remember anything?" Rias asked worriedly.

"Not a bit," Elros said. "Jeez, I hope I didn't get hitched or something to some alien."

"Better not have," Rias giggled. "That might make things weird."

"We live in weird times," Elros laughed.

"Back to bed?"

"In a bit," Elros said. He picked her up and took her to the ground. Rias shivered slightly as she felt the cold ground of the balcony. She tightened her hold on Elros, drawing warmth from his body.

"What?" Rias asked as he stared at her.

"Nothing," Elros said, smiling and getting down next to her. He touched her cheek, continuing to caress it.

"What is it? Something on my face?" Rias asked, blushing.

"Just a little blush," Elros said. "You're so gorgeous. I really just can't take my eyes off you, Rias."

"Where'd that come from?" Rias asked, smiling as her blush increased.

"The bottom of my heart?" Elros offered, kissing her cheek. "Absolutely stunning."

"Thanks, Elros," Rias said, hugging him tightly. She pressed her body against his, taking in the sensation of his skin. Rias pushed him onto his back and mounted him, running her hands up and down his stomach and chest. She leaned down, her b.r.e.a.s.t.s against his chest and smiled while her hand went down and grabbed him. She started stroking before guiding him in.

"f.u.c.k," Rias sighed pleasurably. "How about we get back to bed after this?"

"Fine with me," Elros said, flipping their positions and thrusting. "Don't scream too loudly."

"Then go slow this time," she said.

"Happily," Elros said.

-o-

Rias collapsed on top of Elros after he came inside her, breathing heavily.

"That was amazing," Rias said happily, nuzzling against him.

"I can still go another round," Elros said, fingering her. Rias squealed happily but quickly stopped him.

"I don't think so. You need to rest, sweetheart," she said, kissing him. "Don't worry. After you're back to full strength, we'll spend a few days getting it out of our system."

"Perfect," Elros grinned. Rias helped him back up, slinging an arm around her.

"Feel better soon," she said softly.

"I will," Elros said. "Thanks for taking care of me, Rias."

"I'll always take care of you," she said, kissing his cheek.

"One question," Elros said.

"What's up?"

"You free… hmm… 3 Fridays after my duel?"

"3 Fridays after your duel?" Rias asked. "I should be. Even if I'm not, I'll make sure I am."

"Perfect," Elros said grinning. "There's something I want to show you."

"Is it something that happens on that day?"

"Sort of. It's an ultrrare event, though. I wanna keep it a surprise," Elros said.

"Kay," Rias said, smiling. "There's something I need to ask you as well."

"What is it?"

"After you get some rest after the Duel, there's something I want to show you," Rias said.

"What is it?"

"Surprise," Rias said.

"Ooooh. When you say surprise, do you mean like after my Duel with those three?" Elros asked, grinning.

"Sort of. I think you'll love what it is," Rias said seductively.

"Excellent," Elros said excitedly. "f.u.c.k. I forgot I still have that Battle Royale coming up next week as well, then the fight with Yama. Fights here, fights there, fights, fights, everywhere! At least I can take it easy during the Royale."

"Mhm. I'm just happy no one's trying to come between us anymore with the Duels," Rias said.

"No kidding," Elros agreed. "Hmm. I think Riser will probably be there is well."

"What're you gonna do?" Rias asked.

"I'm gonna give him a piece of my mind first," Elros growled.

"Just don't strain yourself during that fight. Save it all for the one with Yama," Rias said.

-o-

"Come with me for a sec," Akeno whispered to Elros. He obliged and followed her onto the balcony. Akeno turned and smiled at him, giving him a tight hug.

"What's up?" Elros asked.

"Just wanted to get some alone time with you," she said, sitting on the railing and wrapping her legs around him. Elros smiled and kissed her cheek, resting his head against hers.

"Hey, Akeno? I'm sorry," Elros suddenly said.

"Sorry? For what?" She asked, surprised.

"I've been spending so much time with Rias, and I haven't been able to hang out with you as much as I'd like. I really feel bad about it. I know we see each other daily, but… I dunno. I should've taken you out on more dates, at least," Elros said. Akeno just smiled and shook her head.

"It's fine, Elros. I'm just happy that I get to spend so much time with you," Akeno said.

"It's the furthest thing from fine," Elros said, kissing her softly. "You're really important to me. This isn't an anime or something; you're a real human being. I don't want to hurt you or make you feel like I prefer Rias or something."

"I don't feel that at all," Akeno said, hugging him a little closer. "Everyone wants something different from a relationship, y'know? I like spending time with you, but I don't need to spend every waking moment with you. I know you'll come for me as soon as I ask; that's what I really want. Someone to always be there for me."

"I'll always be there for you," Elros said.

"I know," Akeno said, smiling. "Besides, we've got plenty of time coming up. Kuoh's a pretty nice college town, after all. Lots of date spots before, after, and between cla.s.ses. I'll still be with you a lot."

"Excellent," Elros said. "Still, after I finish my fights, I think you and I should get away from everyone for a few days. What do you think?"

"I'd love that," Akeno said happily. "Let's head out after our next date."

"Sounds good to me," Elros said, hugging her.

"Are you ready for your fights?"

"Yup. Going to relax today and tomorrow and then head out to train with John for a few days."

"Constantine?"

"The one and only," Elros said.

"If he hurts you this time, I swear I'm going to burn his f.u.c.king body into a crisp," Akeno growled.

"He's immortal, remember?"

"I remember. Which means I can really work some pent up sadism out of my system. He might not enjoy it, but I will," she smirked.

"Oooh, pent-up sadism, huh? I think I've got another idea, then…" Elros said, leaning in and whispering in her ear. Akeno kept giggling until she broke out into full-blown laughter.

"Sounds good to me. Can't let Rias know yet, though. We wanna surprise her," she smirked.

"Sounds good," Elros grinned. "Oh, she'll love this."

"Even if she doesn't, we will," Akeno giggled.

"Think she's a m.a.s.o.c.h.i.s.t?" Elros wondered.

"Oh, definitely," Akeno confirmed. "She plays innocent, but she has some secrets that even you don't know about."

"Like what?" Elros asked, intrigued.

"If I told you, they wouldn't be secrets anymore," Akeno said.

"Fine. I'll pry them out of her myself," Elros chirped.

"Mhm. That's probably why you're not bugging me to tell you," Akeno laughed. "It's fine with me."

"Are you just saying that because you wanna see me do that to her?"

"Pretty much," Akeno chirped. "Oooh, I can't wait to hear her scream!"

"And I can't wait to hear both of you scream," Elros chirped, squeezing a thigh. Akeno just smirked, slipping a hand in his pajamas.

"Sona, Tsubaki, and Rias are pretty much dead asleep. How about a little one on one?" Akeno wondered.

"Like you have to ask me twice," Elros said, kissing her neck.

"I can't scream, so I'll just bite you," she said.

"Go for it," Elros said, pulling her down and turning her. Akeno moaned in pleasure as a couple of fingers slipped inside her. She grabbed his arm as he revved up, stifling the screams that threatened to spill out.

-o-

"Who would've thought that Devils would have such heavenly bodies?" Elros wondered as Akeno, Tsubaki, and Sona came back to his room, ready for the day. Rias was already cuddling close, eliciting grumbles as she winked at the girls.

"Was probably a given, considering how seductive we're portrayed to be," Akeno giggled.

"And Akeno's part Fallen Angel, so she's seductive by nature," Rias reminded him.

"How're you feeling?" Sona asked, crawling on top and giving him a kiss.

"Better, Sona. Thanks," Elros said, kissing her cheek. He pulled Tsubaki and her on top, whispering loving words to both of them, interspersed with kisses.

"I hope you'll be getting some more rest today," Tsubaki said seriously.

"That's the plan. Gonna make sure Asia is okay, hang out with Koneko and Gasper, take Bella out to Metropolis, then probably have s.e.x with Marion & Bürent and finally, tease Issei and Asia. The order of those things is still up in the air," Elros laughed.

"Just make sure you let them do most of the work. Don't overexert yourself," Sona giggled.

"I'll do my best, my dear," Elros said. "So Rias said you guys are gonna spend the day strategizing or something. Are you positive you don't want an orgy with me, Marion, and Bürent?"

"Pretty sure," Sona said, rolling her eyes. "Considering how beat up you were, I'm not sure you'd last."

"I'll have you know that I take that as a vicious personal attack upon my person, Sona! Never, I say NEVER, have I been so insulted in my entire life!" Elros declared. Sona suddenly jabbed him in the side, causing him to double over.

"What were you saying?" Sona wondered.

"I… concede. This one time and never again!" Elros declared, his face still buried in the pillow. The girls just giggled as they helped him back into a seated position.

"Just take it easy today," Tsubaki said, smiling. "We'll get you something to make you feel better tomorrow."

"Is that-" Elros began before Tsubaki put her hand over his lips.

"No, that's not code for an orgy with us," she said.

"I think Tsubaki picked up mind-reading powers," Elros said.

"You're just that easy to read," Akeno said.

"I take umbrage to that, Akeno. I'm an international man of mystery," Elros said.

"Yeah, but when you're annoyed, you're more cute than hot; and definitely not mysterious," Akeno smirked.

"4 on 1 teasing is unfair. Unless, of course-" Elros began before Akeno put her hand over his mouth, smiling.

"Don't make us tease you even more, especially when you're not 100%," she warned.

"Mmm. Fine," Elros grumbled. "I'll see you all tomorrow, then. Let me know if something comes up," Elros said. "Hmm… maybe I'll take Gasper and Koneko to Lux or something. They can hang out with Lucy & Maze."

"Luke's bar?" Rias asked nervously.

"Yeah. Love that place," Elros said.

"Mmm… I don't think that's a good idea. I don't think Gasper and Koneko would have much fun there. Plus, they're still kids. What about just heading to Kuoh and getting some ice cream?" Rias said.

"Oooh, that's even better. I'll do that. Until then, though, I'ma get some more z's. Remember, you're all welcome to join me!"

"No, thanks. Sweet dreams," each of the girls giggled, giving him a kiss in turn before leaving.

-o-

"Hey, Asia," Elros said, smiling as he came upon the blonde and Issei.

"h.e.l.lo, Elros. Are you feeling better?" Asia asked worriedly.

"Much better, thanks to you," Elros said, hugging her. "I heard what happened. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you."

"It's fine! You had to save a lot more people. I'm happy you were able to help them," Asia said, smiling.

"You're so sweet. Still…" Elros trailed off, resting a hand on her head. "At least you were there, Issei. I heard you Hulked out."

"Oh yeah," Issei said, grinning. "Took care of business!"

"My man," Elros said, giving him a thumbs up. "So what're you two up to today? I'm about to head to Kuoh with Gasper and Koneko. You guys want in?"

"That sounds good to me. We'll catch up with you in a minute," Issei said. Elros left the two and headed downstairs, where Koenko and Gasper were waiting for him.

"Hey kiddo, little buddy," Elros said, hugging Gasper and Koneko.

"Much," Elros said, rolling his neck. "Man, that mission took a chunk out of me."

"Was it scary?" Gasper asked.

"Hmm…" Elros said, leading the two to the foyer and sitting down on a couch. "I dunno, Gasper. I don't think I felt scared or afraid or anything. It was more… there was so much going on, I couldn't really think about anything, you know?"

"I think so," Gasper said thoughtfully. "It was like… sensory overload?"

"That sounds about right," Elros nodded. "I heard you two did really well this past game. I'm proud of you."

"Thanks. Still, we couldn't do much to help Asia," Koneko said, frowning.

"Alls well that ends well, though. It was completely out of left field, anyways. I never pegged whats-his-face for being such a jerk," Elros said. "Deadora, or something."

"Diodora. He is Deadora now, though," they heard Kiba laughed overhead as he went to Karlamine's room.

"I'm gonna get stronger, Elros. I promise," Gasper said.

"I believe you, little buddy. Just don't get too strong. You don't wanna go through life on easy mode," Elros chirped. "So, what do you two say to ice cream in Kuoh? Issei and Asia are coming, as well."

"Yeah!" The two exclaimed excitedly; it had been a while since they were able to spend so much time with Elros. After being joined by the two, Koneko opened a magic circle, and they all stepped through.

"Man, this place never changes, does it?" Elros asked. It had been a while since he had been to Kuoh, but everything was still the same.

"Not really. Kinda nice though, isn't it?" Issei asked.

"Oh yeah. Peaceful and quaint. Two of my favorite things," Elros chirped. "Now, where can we get some delicious frozen treats?"

"I know a pretty good place," Issei said, nodding at them to follow.

"Elros?" Koneko asked, walking in stride with Elros.

"What's up, Koneko?" Elros asked, patting her head.

"Do you like Kuroka?"

"Hmm… I think I do, yeah. Does that bother you?" Elros asked.

"I don't think so. I'm just curious," Koneko said, resting her head against his side.

"Your sister loves you," Elros said softly. "I don't think she has a hard time showing it, but I get the feeling she doesn't know how to go about it. It's a difficult situation."

"I know. Still…" Koneko trailed off.

"I understand," Elros said, scratching her head. "Do you think she's changed since when you saw her last?"

"I think so. She seems to be different now," Koneko said. "Think that's your fault."

"In a good way?" Elros asked.

"Yeah," Koneko nodded.

"Good," Elros said, smiling. "If anything does happen between her and me, though, it'll be with your blessing. You're really important to me, too."

"Thanks," Koneko said, smiling.

"Have you seen her lately?" Elros asked.

"After the last Rating Game. She wanted to know where you were. I think she wants to see you," Koneko said.

"I'll give her a call later today, then," Elros said, rolling his neck a little. "Are you still upset with her?"

"Yeah," Koneko said. "Less, though."

"Good," Elros said, ruffling her hair. "You know, you're kind of like the little sister I always wanted."

"Thanks," Koneko said, smiling. "You always wanted siblings?"

"Yeah. There was this one kid that I grew up with, a long time ago. We were close, like brothers. I can't remember who was older, though," Elros said, thinking back.

"Are you still close?" Koneko asked.

"Not anymore, no. I lost him a while back," Elros said with a sad smile.

"What was his name?"

"Robin," Elros said. Suddenly, he stopped dead in his tracks, a sudden shadow coming over his face.

"Elros? Are you ok?" Gasper asked at his other side.

"Yeah, little buddy," Elros said, ruffling his hair. "Just thought of something from a while back. It's nothing."

"Here we are!" Issei said, missing most of the conversation.

"While we're here, we should give Elros a tour of the city," Asia said.

"Good idea," Koneko agreed. Ice cream in hand, the four led Elros around the city, showing him all Kuoh had to offer. Elros noted all the spots mentally - where he wanted to hang out, where he wanted to take a girl on a date, what just seemed interesting, and more.

"How long do we have left until school starts?" Elros wondered.

"Less than a month, I think. You're gonna be started at the college campus," Issei said, pointing to a large campus a few miles down the road. Elros saw some tall buildings rising out from behind a small wood. "The high school is pretty close, too, so I think we'll still see a lot of each other."

"Sweet," Elros chirped. "You know, for a place with so many supernatural beings, you'd think there'd be a lot more… you know, stuff, going on."

"Don't jinx it for us, man," Issei grumbled. "We deal with enough as is."

"No kidding," Elros laughed.

-o-

"Elros? Is that you?" Kuroka asked over the phone.

"Yup. Sorry for missing you last time. I was a mission," Elros said.

"It's fine. Are you back now?"

"I am. I wanted to ask if you're free tomorrow night," Elros said.

"Free?" Kuroka asked, turning a little red. "Like a date?"

"Yeah," Elros said, "If you want to."

"Yeah," Kuroka said, smiling. "Do you have something in mind?"

"You can't expect me to spoil it!" Elros explained, eliciting a giggle from her. "I'll text you a place to meet up at in Gotham. Sound good?"

"Yeah. See you tomorrow," she said seductively.

-o-

"Hey," Bürent said, greeting Elros with a kiss as he got to their room.

"Hey. Marion out?"

"She's just showering. Specifically told me to tell you not to interrupt her," Bürent giggled.

"I'm ASTOUNDED you think so little of me, Marion!" Elros yelled at the shower.

"AM I WRONG?" Marion yelled back.

"NO! BUT I'M STILL ASTOUNDED!" Elros responded.

"YOU'LL LIVE!"

"How do you feel?" Bürent asked worriedly, leading him to the couch.

"Honestly?" Elros asked, sinking in. "Beat. That was a h.e.l.l of a mission."

"What happened?" Bürent asked.

"War," Elros sighed, resting his head on her shoulder. "Fight over resources. Fighting isn't an American thing, a Devilish thing, or an Earth thing. It's worldwide. Some planets are just more warlike, as well. This was one of them. Took knocks every which way."

"Is there anything I can do?" Bürent asked, stroking his hair.

"You're already doing it," Elros said, kissing her cheek. "How're your parents like the territory?"

"They love it," Bürent said, smiling and hugging him. "Oh, my mom sent this for you just a little while ago."

Bürent presented Elros with a large box. She giggled at his reaction at seeing a ma.s.sive tiramisu cake laid out. The frosting on top read: "Thank you, Elros!"

"My G.o.d in Heaven," Elros said, taking a mouthful. "This is the greatest f.u.c.king cake I've ever eaten in my G.o.dd.a.m.n life. Jesus, Mary, & Joseph on a seesaw."

"She'll be glad to hear it," Bürent said. "Speaking of territory, your fight is soon, right?"

"Yup. Royale in less than a week, Yama in less than two. Then, off to college. Just looking forward to getting back to as normal as possible," Elros said.

"Same," she said, resting her head on his chest. "Think you're going to move into your new territory? Or will you still stick around here?"

"Good question," Elros said thoughtfully. "I think I might stay here, honestly. It's really nice. Besides, Mrs. G and I can team up and tease Rias, which is one of my main reasons to live."

"Yeah, I'm sure," Bürent said, rolling her eyes.

"Teasing you is pretty fun as well," Elros said, squeezing her thigh. Bürent just smirked and gave him a kiss before mounting him.

"You'll get yours someday," she reminded him.

"Oh, I'm looking forward to it," Elros said, sliding his hand underneath her shirt and tracing on her back. "So, have you thought about what you might major in?"

"A little" Bürent said, taking him down and laying on top. "I've been thinking of taking on the Culinary Science program."

"Really?" Elros asked, intrigued.

"Yeah. I guess part of it might be the maid in me talking, but cookings real fun. I only know Italian, German, French, and j.a.panese cuisine, though. I'd really like to expand my palette," Bürent said.

"Oh, only Italian, German, French, and j.a.panese, eh?" Elros grumbled.

"Mhm. I think I can pick up a few more. Maybe some different cultural Indian, Chinese, or Spanish. Every region has its own flavor, after all. Just saying German, French, Italian, and j.a.panese is painting with a really broad brush," Bürent said. "What about you? Have you thought of what you want to study?"

"A little. I'm thinking philosophy and theology," Elros said.

"Why those two?" Burent asked, intrigued.

"Theology because, as a Devil, I want to understand the way humans think about religion. And philosophy because I need to always keep an open mind as a Lantern. There's a surprising amount of cross-pollination between alien cultures, even those that have never met each other," Elros said. "Also, maybe some human anatomy cla.s.ses."

"Mhm. I bet you're really good at that," Burent laughed.

"Maybe you can help me with those. I've studied your anatomy pretty carefully already," Elros said.

"I bet you have," she said.

"A question," Elros said.

"What's up?" Bürent asked, resting her head against his.

"Are you alright with me having a harem?" Elros asked. "I know it's a Devil thing, and a bunch of alien cultures are polyamorous as well, but don't you want… I dunno, something exclusive or something?"

"I never really thought about it, actually. It's just so ingrained into Devil culture, y'know? Plenty of Devil women have male harems as well," she said.

"Do you want a harem?"

"Would you be alright with it?" Bürent wondered.

"It'd be hypocritical if I wasn't," Elros reminded her.

"I guess," Bürent said, smiling. "But I don't want one. Riser was a huge douche; he almost turned me off to men entirely. But I haven't really met another guy like you. I dunno… I'm not jealous that you have a harem. And I really don't want to have to manage my relationships; it's easier just to know that I can be with you. Simplicity is really underrated."

"You've no idea how f.u.c.king right you are," Elros said, running a hand through her hair. "If you're fine with it, then I'm glad."

"I really… you know… love you, Elros," Bürent said, blushing.

"I love you too, Bürent," Elros said, smiling and kissing her head. Bürent smiled wide; this was the first time either had said that to the other. She leaned up and kissed him, working her tongue into his mouth.

"d.a.m.n, I'm lucky. Seven hot girlfriends I'd want to kill myself for," Elros said, flipping their positions and kissing her with pa.s.sion. Bürent moaned happily and wrapped her arms & legs around him, pulling him in.

"Mhm. Me, Marion, Bella, Rias, Akeno, Sona, and Tsubaki. Might want to stop soon, playboy. I don't think you could handle much more," Bürent laughed.

"Don't I know it. I'd be dead but happy if you all wanted to go at the same time," Elros chirped.

"Yeah, I'm not sure you'd outlast that," she said.

"Won't know until we try," Elros said, sucking her neck.

"Maybe soon, then," she sighed pleasurably, gasping a little as he bit her. "Mmm, I love it when you bite me."

"Don't get started without me," Marion said, exiting.

"Wouldn't dream of it," Elros said. Bürent and Marion each grabbed a hand and led Elros to the bed.

-o-

"So you all showed up," Mazikeen said, rolling her neck. Rias, Akeno, Sona, and Tsubaki stood across from her, sweat evident across their faces. None had an idea of what to expect against Mazikeen; they had neither seen her fight or interacted with her much. But if they knew anything about Luke, it was that he was perhaps the most powerful Devil they had ever seen - and unquestionably the most respected. Even the Bael family seemed to step lightly where he was concerned. Someone who appeared to be his right hand would be extremely powerful, they reasoned.

Rias was most nervous. She knew that if they didn't win, she would be the one to break the news to Elros or else risk Mazikeen telling him. She had an inkling as to how he would react, and the thought didn't please her. Elros was kind and loving, but she didn't know what he would be like when he found out they'd betrayed him and lied to him for so long. And the excursion to Death Valley being her idea, she had no doubt that the hammer would fall hardest on her.

Looking to her sides, she was happy that Akeno, Sona, and Tsubaki had offered to fight alongside her. When Mazikeen grabbed her by the throat during the suitor meetings, she knew she was a powerful foe. Rias knew she wouldn't be able to win one on one, but thought that together, they might have a chance. She felt dirty as the thought crossed her mind.

'What am I thinking?' she admonished herself. 'We should lose, shouldn't we? Then we'll have to tell him the truth. But what will he do when he finds out? Elros…'

"What're the rules?" Sona asked, scanning Maze's form. She was decked out in black leather, her black hair let loose and flowing down her back. She held two demonic looking daggers in her hand. They were of a make and shape that Sona had never seen before. All she knew was that they looked dangerous & deadly and that the four would do well to avoid them.

"Beat me, you can keep lying to Elros. Lose, and you have to tell him the truth tonight. 4 on 1; I have to knock all of you out. I'll try my best not to kill you," Mazikeen said, bored. She spun a dagger around on her finger. "I'll only use these daggers. You four can do whatever. If you want to tap out or quit, just scream."

"You won't tell him if we win?" Akeno asked.

"Hey, if you win and you want to keep lying to him for the rest of your relationship, be my guest," Mazikeen shrugged. Akeno recoiled at the inflection in her voice; she knew who was right and wrong, and it disgusted her.

"You don't think he'll be mad with you if we tell him what you did?" Tsubaki asked.

"Elros is a big boy. I think he'll be able to reason who he should be mad at," Mazikeen said, obviously unconcerned. "Anyways, if that's enough yammering, let's get down to it. I have a BDSM orgy in a little bit, and I don't want to miss it."

"Get into positions!" Sona shouted at her friends. Immediately, they all shot out. Rias landed in front of Maze while Sona flew over and landed at her back. Tsubaki and Akeno were at each of her sides. Maze stood in the middle, unfazed.

"Now!" Rias shouted.

-o-

"Hey," Elros said as Yubelluna met him on the foyer. She wore a beautiful black dress and the robe that Elros had gifted her. "You look marvelous. Holy f.u.c.king h.e.l.l. Lord, strike me dead. If you were the last thing I ever saw, I could die a happy man."

"You're sweet," she said, blushing a deep red. She hugged him close, listening to his heartbeat. His arms went under her cloak and held her gently.

"I'm not even kidding," Elros said, looking at her. "You're so beautiful."

"Thank you," Yubelluna said, smiling wide. "You look quite handsome yourself. Is this how you treat every girl?"

"You'd be surprised, actually. Most of the time, I just went as relaxed as possible. But, for a cla.s.sy girl like you, I need to step my game up a bit," Elros said, grinning.

"I'm honored," Yubelluna laughed. "Shall we?"

"Lets," Elros said, holding his hand out for her. Opening a magic circle, the two stepped into Metropolis.

"I've never been here before," Yubelluna said, taking in the fresh air. She saw they were on top of a rooftop garden, and the sun was just setting in the different. She smiled as she saw a table with dinner near a gla.s.s railing that offered them an un.o.bstructed view.

"Thank you," Yubelluna said, kissing Elros as he pulled a seat out for her.

"The pleasure is all mine," he said before sitting across her.

"Do you come here often?"

"By myself? Yeah. But this is the first time I've taken a girl out on a date here. The building belongs to a friend of mine, so I made sure we won't be disturbed. Do you like it?"

"I love it," she said, smiling as she looked around. "The view is gorgeous. Wow."

"Gorgeous indeed," Elros said, staring at her. She blushed and reached over to take his hand in hers. She kissed it before bringing it to her cheek. Closing her eyes, she took in the sensation of him caressing her lovingly. A couple of green hands shot out from Elros' ring and began serving their food.

"That's quite handy. Literally, in this case," she said.

"Oh yeah. I love this little guy," Elros chirped.

"Do you enjoy being a Lantern, Elros?"

"I do," Elros said thoughtfully. "Takes a bit out of you, though. I won't be able to do it forever. But I'm gonna do it for as long as I can manage. It's the best job I could think of."

"Even though you didn't get to experience a traditional childhood?"

"Even then, yeah," Elros nodded. "It would've been nice, but I don't think I'd be as fulfilled as I am now if I had it so easy. I don't think that everything happens for a reason by any means. But if it does, then I think that I'm happy things turned out how they did. Otherwise, I might not be sitting across from you."

"And I would still be with Riser," Yubelluna said with a shudder. "It may be selfish to think so, but I'm glad how things turned out."

"As am I," Elros said, kissing her hand. They made their way through dinner, making light conversation. Elros created a green couch for the two to rest on, facing the sunset.

"This is wonderful," Yubelluna said, resting her head on his chest. "Thank you so much."

"This is just the beginning, sweetheart," Elros said, tilting her face to him and kissing her. "It's gonna be a long and happy road for us, I think."

"There's nothing I want more," Yubelluna said brightly, holding him close and tight.

-o-

Their combined attack did nothing. From the get-go, Rias launched her most potent Power of Destruction attack, leveling the area around Maze with her dark energy; Akeno charged up her strongest bolt of lightning and brought it crashing down like thunder; Sona shot out a surreally sharp piston of water; and Tsubaki summoned a Demon from her Mirror who took one shot and, upon seeing the target, quickly launched back into the mirror.

To their surprise and terror, Maze was left entirely uninjured after the attack. At most, their attacks did well to tear up some of the leather she wore, but even it, on the whole, remained intact. She continued to spin the dagger around on her fingers, shaking her head.

"If that's all you girls have, you're gonna have a hard time doing anything for Elros. You might be good in the sack, but if you think you can protect him, you've got another coming," she said. With ferocious agility, she shot to the left, coming up on Tsubaki. Tsubaki's eyes shot wide open as Maze loomed large over her, a fearful and unflinching look in her eye. Tsubaki let out a sharp cry as one dagger stabbed into her shoulder, and the other slashed her entire upper body. Maze kicked her hard in the stomach and sent her flying into a nearby tree. It buckled under the pressure and fell down on top of Tsubaki, who was out cold.

"Tsubaki!" Sona shouted in terror, rushing to her friend. Rias blasted the tree away and gulped as she saw the condition of her friend.

"That's one down," Maze said.

"You b.i.t.c.h," Sona snarled, tears flowing from her eyes.

"Sona, don-" Rias shouted, but it was too late. Sona launched forward at Maze, who just stood her ground. The water Sona shot at her might as well have been a gentle jet from a water gun. Maze barely felt the splash before jamming her boot right into Sona's face. Sona let out a shriek as her gla.s.ses broke inwards, cutting into her eyes. Unseeing as she was, she was not blind to the pain that followed. She felt Maze's dagger jam into her shoulder before cutting across her. She leaped backward but felt the dagger rip through her shoulder; her left arm went limp. Maze quickly followed her attack, driving Sona's face into the ground before kicking her back towards Tsubaki.

Akeno and Rias just stood flabbergasted. The two were unable to react; Maze's bout with Sona lasted less than 30 seconds. They barely even saw Sona fly between them. Slowly, they turned and saw Sona's form crumpled on the ground, her eyes and shoulders bleeding.

"Sona," Rias said weakly, leaning down near her friend. She wiped the blood away and put Sona on her back, tears streaming from her eyes. She knew what would happen next.

"This doesn't look good," Akeno said as Rias joined her at her side. The two stared at Maze, who just looked back at them.

"You can give up, you know," Maze shouted at them. "If not, then hurry up. I don't have all day."

"What's the plan?" Akeno asked Rias.

"I… don't have one," Rias said, turning white. "I'm sorry I dragged you all into this. This is all my fault."

"We're all at fault," Akeno said firmly. "No matter what, we're either going to win or lose together."

"Thanks, Akeno," Rias said, smiling at her friend.

"What're friends for, right?" Akeno said. The two turned back to Maze with a determined look in her. Quickly, they launched forward with ferocity.

Alas, all the determination in the world is of no use when you're fighting the Demon renowned for her skill as an impeccable warrior. Maze wasted no more of her own time. She speared Akeno and began laying into her with a barrage of punches. As Akeno put an arm up to stop her, Maze grabbed it and snapped it, eliciting a terrifying scream from Rias' Queen. Maze quickly launched a dagger behind her as Rias tried to sneak up on her. The dagger lodged itself into Rias' thigh, eliciting a bloodcurdling cry and sending the redhead to a knee, scrambling to get it out.

"STOP HURTING HER!" Rias screamed out at Maze. Maze just scoffed and slashed away at Akenos' body before squeezing her throat until she went cold. With another kick, Akenos body was launched toward Tsubaki and Sona, unmoving.

"Good move, Gremory," Maze said, going behind Rias and grabbing a fistful of crimson hair. Rias let out a painful cry and tried to claw her off, but it was no use. Even the Demonic Energy she launched point-blank into Mazes' face didn't deter the Demon. Maze grabbed Rias's cheeks between her forefinger and index finger and made her look at her friends' bodies.

"That's on you," Maze said quietly. "I just accepted your challenge. But the reason this all happened? All your fault. You're the one that got them into this, after all. And you know it's true. If you really loved Elros, you wouldn't have to go behind his back. Could've just waited, after all. But, the princess is used to getting what she wants, huh? Well, this is what you got. Now, I'm gonna knock you out cold. And when you come to, you're gonna go to Elros and come clean with everything. Otherwise, I'm gonna make sure you kiss that relationship of yours goodbye. You understand me?" All Rias could do was give a shaky nod.

"Good b.i.t.c.h," Maze said. The last thing Rias recalled was her face approaching the ground at a rapid pace.

-o-

"Rias!" Rias heard someone cry her name out. When she woke up, night had fallen. She saw Akeno, Sona, and Tsubaki's faces just above hers. They were all in terrible condition; b.l.o.o.d.y, dirty, grimy.

"Where is she?" Rias asked, gulping.

"Gone," Akeno said. "She left some first aid material for us. We've patched you up a little…"

"Thanks," Rias said, sitting up. She felt a sharp pain in her thigh; blood was visible through the gauze at the spot where she was stabbed.

"We lost," Sona said, opening her eyes slightly. Everything was blurry.

"I know," Rias said, her heart in freefall.

"How… do we tell him?" Tsubaki asked worriedly.

"I'll do it," Rias said. "It's my fault. I'm the one who thought this up. I'm the one who asked you all to join me."

"We all went," Akeno said firmly. "I think we… should all tell him."

"I agree with Akeno," Sona said. As much as she wanted to avoid this, she knew she couldn't. She'd never be able to look Elros in the eye again.

"So do I," Tsubaki said, gulping.

"I c"

"No, Rias," Akeno said flatly, helping her up. "It's all of us or nothing. We're all at fault."

"Alright," Rias said after a minute. Truth be told, she was happy they were all in this together. She admonished herself for thinking that way, but the feeling was still there.

"He just got back from his date with Bella," Akeno said, seeing a reply on her phone from Bürent as to where Elros was.

"Should we do it now?" Rias asked nervously.

"It's now, or she tells him. And if she does it, I don't… you know," Akeno said, tears welling up in her eyes.

"Right," Rias said. Akeno and Tsubaki helped her to her feet while Sona opened a portal. They stepped through and saw Elros on the other side. His bright smile slowly turned into a look of shock and horror as he saw their condition.