Azazel finally got the chance to rest he had been waiting for. Leaning back in his seat on the bullet train, he dreamed with anticipation of getting to know the beauties of Kyoto up close and personal. The position of assistant to the Gremory heiress' club could be useful for more than just cover. The only thing the fallen one regretted was the lack of someone strong next to him, onto whom he could push off the care of the youth.
Odin had originally planned to leave his assistant as a gesture of goodwill between the members of the nascent alliance, but at the last moment he changed his mind. The old man vaguely reported that he had received important information, after which he left Japan with his bodyguard. Such a gesture confused the leader of the Grigori, but he could not demand an answer.
Aside from the incident with the vampires, things were going well for the fallen one. Asgard had joined their Biblical alliance, and Serafall was planning to come to an agreement with the yokai soon. Even the resistance in the person of Loki could not shake the alliance, although the intervention of Ouroboros helped them in this, thereby reducing the damage to a minimum.
A clear demonstration of the difference in strength between them helped the young demons to look at their own situation objectively. It also gave an excellent incentive for the training of the heiresses and their retinues. It is a pity that only a few were able to achieve quick results, and only thanks to their sacred mechanisms.
The problem of the Sekiryutei with the loss of most of his life was also solved. Rias's "Rook" gradually pours life energy into Issei with the help of senjutsu. Not immediately, but in ten years the boy will be able to restore his longevity. Of course, there are better options among the techniques of the female yokai, but even if Koneko is taught it, it is not a fact that Hyodo will be able to use it.
Azazel did not understand the dynamics of the relationship between the teenager and the other girls at all. It seems like he publicly declared his desire to start a harem, there are plenty of women around him who are in love with him, but as soon as the situation approaches a certain point, outsiders interfere. Most often, this is done by Rias, acting like a bitchy owner, but she herself agreed to her pawn's dream. An extremely idiotic situation from the category of cheap anime harem, which is fun to watch from the outside. The Fallen even began to wonder when the teenager's patience will snap and he will send Gremory with her quirks, finally having sex with the others.
The leader of the Grigori was somewhat concerned about a pair of dragons, who, judging by the reports of observers and their photos on social networks, were currently in Kyoto. Considering the school excursion of the girl they liked, which began yesterday, there is nothing surprising in this, but it can cause huge problems. Fortunately, they were demonstrating their route, so the man took advantage of his position and sent the devils along that very route, rightly assuming that they would not cross paths that way.
After checking into the hotel and giving preliminary instructions to his charges, the man went to visit a certain establishment where attractive geishas serve their customers.
— Well, no... — Azazel muttered in genuine despair, sending the girl away when the Sitri figures contacted him. — I only asked for a few quiet hours! Father, where did I sin so much?
After listening to the whole story about the attack on the Sekiryutei cursed by fortune, the fallen angel realized the seriousness of the situation. Immediately contacting Serafall, he could not hold back his curses.
— So, my dear students, — he addressed the demons gathered in one room, — we have serious problems.
—What is it, sensei?
— In short, we're in deep shit, — the man said with a grin, as the students looked at him in shock. — But if you go into detail, we're in a very sticky situation. The leader of Kyoto, with whom we were planning to form an alliance, has been kidnapped. The culprits of this commotion are the members of the Khaos Brigade, or more precisely, the Hero Faction.
— Were they the ones sending all these fighters to us?
— Yes, and they're led by a True Longinus wielder, — the eyes of every demon widened upon hearing this, but the man didn't finish, — and besides that, there are two more Longinus wielders among the top heroes. So we don't have any chance against them, but we need to save Yasaka, because the terrorists' plan won't end well for us, so I decided to use this precious favor.
— What are you talking about, Azazel-sensei? Do you have the ability to deal with three Longinus wielders at once?
— I have some acquaintances. You managed to meet one of those two.
— Just don't tell me that it's...
— That's right, Saji. I'm talking about the Infinite Dragon God, — the man said cheerfully. — She and her boyfriend will be coming here soon, so I ask you, no... I beg you, Issei, control yourself, or better yet, keep quiet! If you were lucky last time and didn't face any consequences, then now even the slightest insult to Ophis will not end well. Silence is an incredibly jealous and cruel dragon.
***
When Hitori's class arrived at the hotel, the couple was already waiting for her there. Knowing in advance where they would be staying for these few days, they had booked the best room for themselves in order to be closer to their favorite. As soon as she left her things in the assigned room and went down, the guitarist instantly found herself in Ophis' soft captivity. They chatted among themselves, making up for lost time, while the rest of the students slowly descended into the building's lobby.
The school excursion had its own strict schedule, which was why the dragons had to endure discontent. The first day, the class acted as a whole; on the second, in previously chosen groups, they moved along one of the proposed routes, and the last day was free time. Hiratsuka and the other teacher watched through their fingers as Goto's acquaintances joined their group. As long as they did not interfere with the others and did not create problems, they could not be held accountable.
The first day flew by very quickly. The excited students visited the most famous cultural places of the capital and returned to the hotel to rest. The trip from Tokyo and the subsequent excursion exhausted the teenagers, who were already excited by emotions.
The next morning was a bit long for the Ouroboros family. During the night, a message from Hachiman came to Sai's phone asking to meet the next day to discuss an unusual incident that happened to him and Hiratsuka. Having received approval to participate in their get—together, Hitori joined them in a private room of the restaurant.
— Why such a serious atmosphere? — Silence broke the silence when their order was brought. — You finally decided to meet and want to tell us about it?
— Yes, but that's not the point.
— Seriously?! — Not only the young man was surprised, but also both of his companions, while a blush appeared on the concentrated face of the young teacher. — What could be more important than this wonderful news?
— Eh-h-h, I want to talk about your real identity, — Hikigaya took the nervous hand of the newly-minted girl. — I had to briefly explain to Shizuka about the supernatural world, but I don't know that much about it, so…
— Is it related to that incident yesterday? Tell me.
***
The teenager was sitting on a bench near the entrance to the hotel. In his hands was a can of warm coffee, bought from a machine nearby. Despite the fatigue from the past day, Hachiman was in no hurry to go to his room to rest. Due to the limited budget of the trip, three people were staying in one room, and he was not very lucky with his neighbors. Although the incident on the roof during the cultural festival caused some tension and condemnation from his classmates, it did not develop into anything more. However, Hayato really disliked him after that, so Hachiman preferred not to stay with him and one of his backup singers in the same room for a long time.
— What the?! — the teenager blurted out when he caught sight of a sneaking figure. — What kind of ridiculous outfit is that, Hiratsuka-sensei?
— Huh? — the woman turned her head because of the unexpected shout, finding the speaker. — Ugh, it's just you, Hikigaya.
— Just me? Did you want someone else to find you?
As he spoke, the guy glanced at his interlocutor. Instead of the usual suit and robe, she was now wearing a long cloak, a cap, and a mask on her face, and her legs were in tight jeans and shoes. She seemed to be the embodiment of the "disguise" stereotype, which is designed to attract even more attention.
— No, no. It's even good that you found me.
— What is that supposed to mean? Oh, and why are you dressed like that?
— Since you've already found me, I'll have to get rid of the witnesses.
— I won't be taken alive, — the boy responded to her joke with a smile. — Should I pretend I didn't see you?
— No need. Come with me instead. I was planning to visit a few nice places, and I'll treat you to some of Kyoto's best ramen as a bribe.
— O-okay.
The first place on their impromptu date was a small ramen shop. It was located in a maze of alleys, so Hachiman was surprised by the large number of customers inside. When their order was placed in front of them, the boy admitted that Hiratsuka was right — it was the best ramen he'd ever eaten. The woman's smirking face was filled with an —I told you so— look as she noticed the teenager's shocked expression.
Having finished dinner, the young man was already planning to go back, but this was not part of Shizuka's plans. She was planning to have a good rest today, and having fun in company is much better than alone. The next stop was an inconspicuous bar.
— I thought you would resist and refuse, but you have once again exceeded my expectations, — the girl either complained or praised him, taking a sip from her mug of beer.
— I don't see the point in refusing, — shrugging his shoulders, Hikigaya ate fried potatoes with his alcohol. — The main thing is to know when to stop. Nothing will happen from a few mugs of beer.
— Ha—ha! Good mood, — she extended her mug to him, — here's to a great start to our trip!
— Kampai!
The leisurely drinking couple started their usual conversation. The topics touched on various areas, from plans for tomorrow to the latest anime of this season. Time dragged on, and the amount of drinks had already exceeded ten mugs. Involuntarily, the conversation touched on the delicate topic of their relationship.
— Are you really so worried about my age? — Hachiman asked, his tongue slightly slurred. His head was already feeling light from the drink, but the young man kept his mind clear.
— I won't say I'm not worried, — the emboldened woman answered. — In fifteen years, I'll already be over forty. There's a chance that my partner will be drawn to someone younger.
— I don't think so. Considering how young you look now, I'm sure that in fifteen or twenty years, you'll look great. And also, — the guy allowed himself a more predatory look at the body of his interlocutor, — Silence managed to convince me of his point of view.
— And w-what is this point of view? — Shizuka didn't miss the change in his eyes, but she liked it.
— Older, dark-haired women are gorgeous.
— Ahem... Don't say things like that so suddenly, — the girl almost choked on her snack when she heard that. — Although I like spending time with you, I can't return your feelings.
— What's the reason?
— I'm your teacher, Hachiman. When others find out, and they will find out, it's hard not to notice, you know what a storm will arise, right? The school will accuse me of seducing a student, there will be a scandal, maybe the news will get into the press. I don't want all my efforts to go to waste... even if it costs me my feelings.
— ... So, it's the current situation that worries you, and not me? — the teenager asked after a moment of silence. The initial sadness from the rejection disappeared. — If things were different, could everything have worked out between us?
— Maybe, but reality is what it is.
— I have a solution to this problem — we just need to change our status.
— And what does that mean?
— It's simple, — taking the girl's hand in his, he said without hesitation, — marry me, Shizuka.
— What the hell!!! — the surrounding customers turned their attention to the woman who suddenly jumped up. — Sorry for disturbing you! Please continue your rest, — apologizing for her harsh reaction, she returned to her seat. — What the hell did you just say, Hikigaya? And you better not joke like that anymore!
— Why did you think this was a joke? You can't be accused of anything or punished if our relationship is so official.
— You're drunk now and don't understand what you're talking about.
— No. Even taking into account the alcohol, I am perfectly aware of my words and actions. Next year I'll be eighteen, and I'll be able to get married without any problems.
— Marriage isn't some kind of game, Hachiman. It's a very important decision that shouldn't be made so spontaneously.
— Then we can try to start our relationship, and then decide whether we're right for each other or not.
— Didn't you hear me? It's more than half a year until you turn eighteen, what do you suggest we do if they find out about us?
— In that case, I can ask Silence to register our marriage retroactively. I won't even need my parents' permission.
— Silence? Are you trying to forge documents? That's a crime.
— No, no. It's all official, no shenanigans, — Hikigaya cheered up, remembering his friend's capabilities. — Silence is simply a wizard in such matters. With his powers and position, he can easily do something trivial. So, what do you say?
— ... I need to think. I'm too drunk to make informed decisions.
— Okay. Then, shall we head back? Should I call a taxi?
— Yes, we'll go back. But let's walk. I need to clear my head and calm my thoughts.
Their path was silent. Each was deep in their own thoughts. Hachiman thought that he had acted too hastily. He did not regret the decision itself, but he could have acted more smoothly. Shizuka could not believe what she heard. Of course, she dreamed of getting married, but not like this! They knew each other and had been actively communicating for several months. The same trips to the summer camp and Okinawa can be considered dates, but... You need to weigh everything well with a sober head. Right now, such an offer sounds too tempting, especially Silence's capabilities.
The girl noticed oddities about this couple. Their behavior and huge financial opportunities coupled with a lot of free time for traveling, and a couple more unusual moments, but it's better to see for yourself.
— Girl, would you like to join us on this wonderful night?
They were brought out of their thoughts by the call of one of the group of tipsy students. Among them were six guys and two girls. The company clearly did not want to stop their fun this night, looking for a pleasant addition to them.
— We will refuse, — Hachiman answered for her, walking a little ahead of the girl. — We are already finished for today, so we are going home.
— I did not ask you, kid. And in general, aren't you too young to be in the company of such a beauty?
— Never complained about the size, and what, — the teenager looked at the face unburdened by intellect and smiled defiantly, — a sore subject?
— Ah, you! — to the laughter of his acquaintances, the guy rushed with the intention of smashing the joker's face. Without wanting to, Hikigaya touched him to the quick. — I'll kill him!
— Ouch. It seems I hit the nail on the head, — slightly regretting his long tongue, the teenager braced himself. Taking advantage of the fact that he was underestimated, he ducked under the blow and delivered one precise jab to the opponent's chin. — Maybe we should stop here and go our separate ways?
Hachiman's hope for a peaceful solution was not crowned with success. The remaining guys decided to avenge their unconscious friend, even the threat of calling the police from Hiratsuka was ignored by the students heated up by high—proof drinks.
— I have a very reasonable assessment of my capabilities, — Hikigaya threw his phone into the hands of his panicking companion, — so you can call Sai and ask him for help. It's okay if they just beat me up — I deserve it, but I'm afraid they might hurt you too.
— Y-yes, right now.
— There's no need for that, — a completely unfamiliar voice spoke, and a group of students, including girls, fell to the ground. Several inhuman figures appeared in front of them. — There's no need to worry, we just put them to sleep. Later, we'll contact the police to take this group away.
— Thank you, — the young man spoke up, while Shizuka clung to his hand, struggling with horror. — But why did you decide to help us?
— Such are the orders of our leader, — the youkai answered slowly, noticing the calmness of the interlocutor at the sight of him. — While you are in the territory of the Western youkai, any person associated with Ouroboros is under our protection.
— Thank you. I'll mention your timely assistance to Silence.
— You're welcome, that's our job. Have a nice evening.
— And to you too.
Taking the initiative, the boy pulled the completely unresisting woman forward. When they had moved a decent distance away from the scene, Hiratsuka came to her senses.
— What was that?! Those were youkai! Living karasu tengu, just like they're depicted!
— You better calm down, Shizuka. You're talking too loudly.
— How can I calm down?!! I met real legendary creatures! And why are you acting so calm? Do you know something? And why did he mention that couple? — the teenager was buried under a whole bunch of questions. — I'm waiting for answers!
— Have I already told you how much I love you? — Hachiman's cunning attempt to change the subject was unsuccessful. — Ha-a-a... Then we're in for a long conversation, which everyone involved would do well to attend.