Chapter 22: I did it, now what?

Part 1

MC’s POV

After ending the conflict of the catgirls by handing some sweet bread to Kuroka-chan who lost against Shirone-chan, but could not accept the results and began to get rowdy with her sister again, I made the two sit in seiza and asked them what happened.

Long story short, they got worried when they saw me in a pinch, or what it looked to be that when they were in the Shrine watching my trial. Getting angry at Yasaka-san for not trying to stop the 'test', they both ran to the Torii to save me, only to go through a similar experience.

It froze my blood when I considered the possibility of these two facing all those fake-youkais. Kuroka-chan might be able to do something about it, but the Shiro Neko had no fighting skills.

"You two, I think you should think about your actions some more. You also need to trust me more." I scolded the two.

There is no way of saying all this nicely, but I think I need to say it. These two girls are important to me... If something happened to them, it would break my heart.

*Clap* *clap*

"Ok, that's enough. N-Shiki-kun, I think they already went through a lot. You can scold them later. Besides... Isn't there something else you should be saying? Maybe something you should do?" Kasen-san spoke in the nekomatas’ defense.

Argh. To be told that, I might've overreacted. Caring about them a lot is one thing, but they did pull that stun because of me. Had I been more skillful while dealing with this... they wouldn't need to be scolded.

Kneeling to match their eye level, I smiled wryly as Kuroka-chan and Shirone-chan looked at me pitifully.

Just like that, I gently pulled them into my arms, hugging them.

"Sorry, I shouldn't be scolding you. Thanks for coming after me." I spoke in a kind tone of voice.

While the two did not react at the beginning, perhaps because they were bewildered at my change of attitude, they did hug me back strongly when they processed my words.

"Anytime-nya." Kuroka-chan cheerfully said.

"...Hmm. You two would be lost without me. I did well, so I want a reward." Shirone-chan demanded.

It was difficult to deny those words. They indeed became important to me. Yes, in that place where I suffered so much pain... they became my light. 

Urgh, the cringe feeling. 

But it was not a lie.

"*Sigh* You are pushing it a little, but... Yes, ask away. However, when we arrive home, alright? Yeah, Kuroka-chan can ask something as well." I answered back as I pulled them from me, not forgetting about the black kitty that seemed to want something as well.

Turning around, I caught the sight of Kasen-san staring at us.

"Hehe, you guys get along very well." The pink-haired self-proclaimed hermit muttered with a chuckle.

It was a little embarrassing to be said that so I did not retort to those words. Instead, I proceeded to take a look around the interior of the house. After all, I hardly paid attention to it when I came in, focusing only on the Nekoshou pair.

The interior is very wide, and there are not many objects around. Hanging on the wall there are different ancient-looking paintings. Near the window, there is even a bonsai. It looks like a cozy and calming place, perfect to meditate in fact. Well, that is only what I am seeing now.

"You have my thanks for taking care of them. Although I still don't know much about you, other than your name. Not to mention this place…. Are you perhaps the same as Forest Wraith?" I questioned.

It is not strange to arrive at that line of thought. Arriving here was possible since I was on the trial ground.

"Hmmm, well... I am not the same as him. He is a shikigami, different from me, and while he is the guardian of this place, I just live here. Doing maintenance to the barrier that keeps this place is the way I pay to be allowed to stay, but that is a secret to the kitsune outside, so keep it a secret... Ok?" Kasen-san playfully said.

So she is not free-

"I am not a freeloader." Kasen-san’s playful words interrupted my thoughts.

Am I that easy to read? Mentally sighing, I noticed something.

"Wait, you still didn't tell me what this place was... or anything related to you." I inquired.

"This place is nothing strange. It is called Senkai. Different from the usual pocket dimension, or special spaces created using magic, this place was created using hermit arts. It is a place made specifically to suit me, a hermit, to train." Kasen-san explained.

That sounds im-

"It is nothing that impressive. I just know a thing or two about hermit arts. You could say I am still a rookie regarding my role." The pink-haired woman spoke.

She has a knack for interrupting huh.

*Sigh*

Sighing deeply, I thought that being easy to read is the reason for that.

...

...

...

Watching listlessly from one side as the younger sister eats, I started to feel bad for the pink-haired hermit that offered us lunch, and while Kuroka-chan isn't eating as much as she usually does... Shirone-chan is not pulling any punches.

"Sorry for this... I will repay you somehow." I spoke, apologizing to Kasen-san.

It was a simple offer, and it ended like this. Watching the woman who was moving skillfully in the kitchen to prepare more dishes, I felt kind of guilty.

"It's ok. I don't mind it one bit. It makes me happy that they are enjoying it. Although... If you say things like that, it could be misunderstood. It is not only girls that should avoid saying that, ok?" Kasen-san said in a joking tone, scolding me. "However... You could... Hmmm, you know... share some? You know, if you have sweets with you? Only if you have. Yes."

She asked while turning her head slightly to the side.

It was an interesting sight to see her act shy. Is it embarrassing for her to ask me for that?

"Then I will repay you in that currency, although I have not many things on me. I can come later if you want to deliver it to you." I offered.

One thing I wonder though... Weren't hermits the kind of people who were one with nature? And the types who left stopped needing to eat food to sustain themselves. I could be wrong though.

Nevertheless, as I watched Kasen-san nodding happily to my proposal, I thought that I need to revise my image of hermits.

"Oh, but... Hmmm, take this. You should be able to come here without having to go through those trials again." the pink-haired hermit, who after pondering for a moment took a wooden token out of her pocket and handed it to me, mumbled.

Is it alright to hand this so easily?

"I took a liking to you guys. Your Ki is very warm and clear, proof that you are good people. Not to mention, not just anyone can get in here… by the way, you still haven't given me the sweets." Kasen-san explained as she aptly threw a pancake that landed on Shirone-chan's plate just as she finished eating.

This woman... is good.

It is frustrating but her skills are beyond anything I can do. Is this the difference between classes (of cooking levels)!?

"Are you sure you don't want to eat something too? All the ingredients are fresh. I create shikigamis to help me get them from outside." Kasen-san, who threw another pancake that landed on Kuroka-chan's plate, asked

What have I been doing all this time in the kitchen? Is this the difference in talent? A wall you can't overcome no matter how much you try? No, I deny accepting it! I shall overcome my limits in the kitchen.

"...N- I want one too." I said, initially trying to say no, but observing her countenance darken I changed my words.

Which was the right answer as she brightly smiled, and began preparing more.

...

...

...

"Could you guys wait for a moment? I have something to do." Kasen-san suddenly spoke.

Standing up, she left the house at once.

It had been a while since the lunch was finished. The two shameless sisters were napping as each had their head on top of my lap.

Lap pillows work both ways.

Gently patting their heads, I found this place extremely relaxing. The concentration of Ki here is as high as Kaa-san's house, but, the great numbers of animals I can feel give a new type of charm. In that regard, Kaa-san seemed to only keep the necessary living creatures to keep the natural environment from collapsing. Only the necessary.

*Sigh*

My mood turned somber for a minute, I can't help but get depressed sometimes, and while it might seem rude to these girls, I still feel somewhat lonely.

"If you keep that frown on your face for long, it will stay like that, you know?" A voice I came to familiarize myself with only today said. 

Kasen-san, who suddenly looked at me from her standing position behind me, had a wry smile.

I will keep in my heart how I was slightly dazed by her looks and... let's say that gravity made me realize that she is the type to look slender with clothes, and I won't say another word.

"It is rude to appear behind others like that, you know?" I gave the only reply I could manage to come up with at that moment.

So far, people with that kind of ability could be counted with one hand, now they appear like it is normal. She is not a regular woman.

"You know what's rude too? Calling me, a woman, like that. I am still a fair maiden, you know? Young girl or girl would be pushing it too much, but at least refer to me as 'young woman', or I will be sad." Kasen-san muttered with a pout.

That is a youthful reaction alright.

"Sorry, it is mostly the way you look. You seem mature and have an adult aura, so I just... No, never mind. Let me apologize. Giving excuses is no good.” I mustered all the sincerity I could and said that.

Some people can be sensitive about their age, although it is not something that bothers me. I mean, I like Yasaka-san and I don't mind our age difference.

"Fumu, you are thinking about a woman at your age huh. You will have a difficult path ahead if you only think about those things." Staring me intently, Kasen-san who was trying to get a read on me, commented.

Oh, stop it. I am already easy to read. I need my privacy.

This call for-

"Hey, I will be leaving in a while, as soon as they wake up". I said.

A change of subject.

Nevertheless, it is true I have to go. Yasaka-san must be worried sick, and I already checked what I needed too.

My words made the mood sink a little. I had been staring straight into the pink-haired hermit's eyes, and they seemed to contain many emotions. It might be a wrong interpretation of what they are trying to express but... they seemed lonely and sad, however... there is slightly affection mixed as well.

Why does she look at me like that?

"I see... You can come anytime. To talk, or if you want, I can teach you some hermit arts as well." Kasen-san smiled like nothing was out of place, slightly stroking my hair, but soon took her hand off me. What a strange woman- young woman, YOUNG WOMAN. Jeez, why did the affection disappear like it was a lie? Those eyes could kill. What sadness, that is an angry expression.

"I am glad you seem to be having fun flirting with that lady when I had to go through a very, very difficult ordeal. Yes, I am glad." I heard a voice using a slightly icy tone coming from the house's front door.

I did not dare to retort about the 'flirting' part as I saw the state of the owner of that voice. One I was rather familiar with.

Shizuku-san was wearing her hakama, which could not be called that anymore as it had tears everywhere, showing her white skin below it, and the beauty of the person who wore such a thing.

"...What happened to you?" I couldn't help but question.

Last time I saw her was before I... Oh, yes. That's possible.

Before she was able to reply, I got the full picture. Yasaka-san sent her. It was either to keep an eye on me or to look for the reckless catgirls. Either way, she probably went through some difficult trials too.

Take a look at my clothes... I am not unscathed, or my hakama isn't at least. With tears here and there, this poor hakama had seen better days.

"...Don't make me start. Because I will, I will tell you all I went through. Don't ask." Shizuku-san threatened in a tone that screamed 'ask now, what are you waiting for!?'

Appreciating one of the rare moments where I can say with confidence that this is the high school DxD world, as Shizuku-san showed herself. I mentally took a picture. One would think there would be more situations like these, but lucky pervert moments are lack, wait, with Yasaka-san.. No, never mind, I said nothing.

Mentally hitting myself so I could get a grip, I was about to turn to Kasen-san when I noticed that she was looking at me with a blaming look.

Now, what did I do?

"You know what." Kasen-san muttered as a response to my thoughts.

I was bluffed, did she read my mind when I recalled the embarrassing situations with Yasaka-san or because I was appreciating Shizuku-san’s anatomy? 

*cough*

Maybe both.

...

...

...

Setting down the emotional kitsune, and hermit. I received an offer to take a bath. Which became a group bath as the Nekomata sisters woke up with the ruckus. It was intended for Shizuku-san so she could clean herself but with the addition of a rowdy Kuroka-chan who seemed curious and wanted to join and Shirone-chan who wanted to follow her sister. That left Kasen-san, the owner of the house who was going to join as well to teach them the place. Now, that left me alone.

Kuroka-chan and Shirone-chan were not against it, Kasen-san also did not seem to mind one bit. Making the only opposing party Shizuku-san, who kept muttering things about not being able to marry if I went with them.

Losing to her strong momentum, I was outside the bathing party, but I could not even feel relief or disappointment as Kasen-san offered me to take one together if the situation allowed it.

At that time I looked at her incredulously only to be dumbfounded when she looked at me with a mischievous expression similar to that of a child who pranked someone successfully.

Vowing silently to pay back that joke, I wondered why I was able to get along this well with her.

It was a strange feeling, but I did not feel anything out of place or even the slightest rejection on my part so I considered it something good.

Part 2

MC’s POV

Taking a separate bath, in the wide, wide space she had. It was pretty nice to soak in the water. It reminded me of an onsen and made me want to have one at home too.

However, in the end, we had to leave. Having changed her clothing for something Kasen-san gave her, Shizuku-san got rid of her rags. I did carry something to change on me so I was good. So, now we were at the Torii saying our goodbyes.

"...I wish a reimburse." Shizuku-san commented as she stared at me.

For my part, I avoided that look. She should ask Yasaka-san for that.

"Thanks-nya. You are a good lady-nya. You got big breasts but you didn't try to take Nora-nya away. We can become friends-nya." Kuroka-chan cheerfully exclaimed, who blurted rather private information.

Kasen-san didn't seem to mind it though, coolly reacting. As expected of one with an adult aura. No, wait, her cheeks are getting redder.

I saw nothing.

On the other hand-

"...friends?" Shirone-chan asked timidly but with a face full of expectations.

Resisting the urge to go and hug that adorable creature, I waited for the answer she would get.

"Of course, we are friends. You can come here anytime." Kasen-san patted Shirone-chan's head while carrying a kind smile on her face.

That's unfair, why does everyone get to pat her that easy when I had a hard time?

Argh, complaining won't get me anywhere.

"So, as long I have this token, I can use the Torii to come and go directly from the one near the Shrine, ignoring the trial grounds?" I asked out of curiosity, or simply to interrupt them out of jealousy over the situation.

"It is rather easy to use, but don't forget that you need to carry it with you. It will save you a lot of time." Kasen-san patiently explained again, not suspecting my second intentions.

Urgh, I am bad.

Before we leave, I would like to give it a try, a certain question that keeps bothering me.

Waving at the pink-haired wo- young woman. I moved slightly away from the rest of the girls.

"Hey, let me be honest with you. There is one thing I just need to know." "When we are going to take that bath just the two of us?" Such an exchange happened as I planned to seriously ask something.

It made me pause for a moment though, but her mischievous expression was proof that she was joking once again.

"...if you ask that again, even as a joke. I will seriously make it happen. You won't be able to back down." I declared.

I am not an amateur, putting aside Kaa-san who is a beauty on her right. I've had baths with Yasaka-san numerous times. Does this hermit think I would shy away?

Not sure why, but she did not say anything back. Still, I considered it as her understanding of my words.

"... Anyways, I will ask. Have we met before?" I inquired.

The looks she sometimes gives me make no sense otherwise.

"Are you learning pick-up lines at this age? Ok, ok, I won't play around. Still... You want to know, as expected." Kasen-san stopped as I stared at her with some unamused eyes, after she tried to joke to distract me.

Is it something you should be avoiding answering?

"I do know you, and yes, technically this is not the 'first' time we met. That is... as far as I can tell you. Just remember this, I am your ally. This much, you can hear. Regardless of everything else you might hear, I want you to believe in that." Kasen-san told me in a sincere tone, almost like she was begging for my trust in those words.

Meeting her... doesn't seem to be a simple coincidence huh. There is much to retort on her wording, but she is being quite emotional regarding this.

"...I can't guarantee that. I don't dislike you... however, there is the possibility that my thoughts might change." While those words poured out of my mouth, Kasen-san's expression visibly darkened. "Just... just tell me one thing, and depending on that..."

Even if my words were vague, they appeared to be enough for her to brighten considerably.

"...what do you want to know?" Kasen-san asked after a moment of silence.

My playful side wanted to crack a joke and ask for her three sizes, wondering if she would answer. Or maybe I just wanted the mood to go back as it was before.

"Are you going to be the enemy of those girls? The enemy of my friends? Maybe anyone I hold dear?" I inquired in a calm tone of voice.

This was a tricky and unfair question as you would doubt the person regardless of their answer... but it was one I needed to know. Although I had a liking for her, she is still someone I just met. If Kasen-san were to hurt or cause any harm to the people I hold dear... I would not just stay standing.

Nonetheless, she just smiled fondly, and closing her eyes, she said-

"As long as they are your allies, they will be my allies. Rest assured. This Kasen, wouldn't lie about that.” Kasen-san replied in a firm tone.

Once again, there were parts to nitpick. However, I will trust her here. She met Shirone-chan and Kuroka-chan first, and they are perfectly fine.

"Then, you are my ally too." I spoke at last.

Although I couldn't be completely assured, every relationship you have with someone you meet is like that. Yet, I will take my time to see whether her words are true.

Exhaling in relief, Kasen-san released the breath she at some point had been holding.

That is not good for your health, you know?

...

...

...

Giving one last look to the waving Kasen-san, I pulled Kuroka-chan who stared at the hermit with suspicion and kept muttering in a really low tone some nonsense about 'too soon to judge', to pass through the Torii.

This silly girl is having fun so I won't pry too much. Shirone-chan seemed reluctant as well, but she acted tough without looking back.

Shizuku-san... just walked slightly behind us, which felt kind of uncomfortable. I had told her to act more relaxed around us, and less... 'subordinate-ish' as she would act when Yasaka-san was present. She is the one she serves, not me. Later, I will have to have a chat with her, again.

-------------------------------------------

Kasen’s POV

Even as the rowdy group left, Kasen kept staring that way. Her gaze contained several complex emotions, but the relief was what could be read if someone took the opportunity to scrutinize her for a moment.

As there seemed to be a silence, agreed by all the animals and insects that the pink-haired young woman raised to allow her to ponder over the meeting she had. Some footsteps did not care about such a thing.

Not too loud, not too soft... there was the sound of someone walking and standing beside the self-proclaimed hermit.

"... Aren't you glad? You got to meet him after so long. Although... I wonder if it can be called that." Forest Wraith muttered in a kind and respectful tone.

Smiling wryly at those words, Kasen wondered the same thing. However, it did not matter. She met him once more. Staying here for so long, alone, did bear its fruits.

"... I am still a little uneasy. I asked him to believe me, but he knows nothing about me, and I know how unfair it was on my part. At that time, I was torn with curiosity... Is he going to turn hostile? Or act the same way? He didn't give me the answer to what would happen so I was afraid of things going south." Kasen spoke.

The shikigami beside her did not interrupt, limiting itself to listen.

Waiting a few seconds, it seemed to ponder slightly.

"...My creator likes to leave those sorts of things to others to find out on their own. He knew what kind of answer that 'child' would tell you, but instead of letting you know beforehand, he let you go through the whole situation where you would worry, and ask at the end." Pausing for a moment, Forest Wraith awaited for Kasen to nod before continuing speaking. "In a sense, he did not want to deprive you of the full experience. I think he would've called it not 'spoiling' you, whatever that means. So, how is it? Was it better that you heard those words from 'that child'? Or it would've been better if my creator told you beforehand?"

Tapping her chin with her index finger, Kasen took longer to answer than usual.

Not rushing her, Forest Wraith crouched and tried to lure a nearby squirrel. The little thing appeared to be curious but wary over the beckoning blue-eyed being.

"I think I feel much better." Kasen replied.

"Then, that is all that matters." Forest Wraith said while still trying to lure the squirrel.

Observing his antics, the pink-haired young woman recalled certain things.

"In the end, what happened to Yasaka? I could feel the ruckus all the way here." Kasen curiously said.

Forest Wraith getting tired of making the squirrel to come his way just stood up, and-

"Asking about her? Are you worried about the woman who would chase you away from Urakyoto if she finds, you?" The shikigami asked back.

Not amused, Kasen slightly raised her right 'arm' and pointed it at the shikigami who shrank back at once.

"My apologies, I could not help but ask. It is part of the personally my creator designed for me. I shall report to you about my actions so far." The shikigami fearfully replied while kneeling respectfully.

*Sigh*

Tiredly sighing, Kasen left him off the hook as she lowered her 'arm'.

"As you would expect, she seemed ready to break the barrier so I..." Forest Wraith began explaining.

Part 3

MC’s POV

What first greeted me when I left the Torii was, utter destruction. No signs of the shrine could be seen everywhere. A darkish crystal seemed to be still standing where I recalled being the location of the building.

Stomping her feet rather childishly, Yasaka-san whose beautiful visage was covered in dirt and dust, seemed to be paying her frustrations with the ground.

Two facts must be pointed out; one is that no matter what, an Ultimate-class being childishly doing 'something' causes 'at least' heavy damage. The Earth below her was cracking, a testament to her strength. Two, the shaking of certain heaven-defying 'extensions' of her body, must have a charming or ensnaring effect as my attention was pulled there.

Biting my lips to regain my bearing, I did not forget to save that image in my heart, although I could not help but shudder at the destructive power this memory has.

One look to my sides and even the girls had their mouths open. Yes, truly a dangerous power.

Thankfully, or not really. Yasaka-san noticed us.

*Cough*

A cough came out from an embarrassed Yasaka-san, and she tried to fix her appearance the best she could.

One look for me was enough to see that she was fine. Otherwise, I would've completely resisted that Forbidden spell she cast by stomping her feet and running to her side.

"You guys are ok. Good, let's go home then." Yasaka-san, who tried to ignore her surroundings, said

"...What happened?" The bravest member of the group, Shirone-chan, asked.

My words exactly. 

You are reading story Highschool DxD: A new opportunity at novel35.com

It would be absurd to say that a natural disaster came. Even though I believe that a rampaging Ultimate class can be described as such.

"Fufu... Nothing?" Chuckling, Yasaka-san still tried to act like everything was ok.

"Why don't we just go home for now?" I gave her a helping hand.

The nine-tailed woman sent me a grateful look, but she seems to misunderstand that I won't ask. Not going to correct her though.

"If Nora-nya says so..." Kuroka-chan accepted my words albeit reluctant after glancing at Yasaka-san and the destroyed landscape.

Shirone-chan, as the good kid she is, nodded. Even when she carried a worried expression, she followed what I said. I am going to bake a nice cake when we get home, just for you.

Shizuku-san continued to keep a slight distance between us, as she would accept whatever Yasaka-san would say.

...

...

...

The party had grown up to five people now that Yasaka-san joined, and considering what all we went through, I took the girls home. It was a tad difficult to convince Shizuku-san, who just made excuses to leave, to come. I considered that she should take some free time to relax after all she went through, so instead of letting her go back to her duties... I brought her to my place, where I will lend an unused bedroom to rest.

The blondie might be acting tough right now, but I know that she is tired.

The other kitsune... is still looking healthy. Her connection to the Ley Lines makes it difficult for her to deplete her powers since she refills them with the spiritual power coursing through it. Although I was slightly curious about how that works, what I cared was about the possible burden it would cause on her, and for that, I would need to do a closer check-up, which she won't accept as usual.

*Sigh*

If I pat her enough, would she let her guard down?

When will my skills reach that level...?

Despite my nonsensical thoughts, I was seriously worried about her.

...

...

...

"Nora-nya~ I want a chocolate cake!" Kuroka-chan cheerfully declared just as I turned on the oven.

The cake was for the good kid, Shirone-chan though. Look at that, Shirone-chan is pouting while she stares at her sister with an unfriendly gaze. I wouldn't try to upset the girl who shares a room with me, Kuroka-chan.

Well, she did try to look for me, going through such a damned trial. One cake wouldn't hurt, they are small after all.

Watching her smiling happily though-

Maybe two for Kuroka-chan, and Shirone-chan gets one more so three for her.

...I am too soft on them.

"Alright, everyone will get cakes so don't try to hit your Onee-chan." I stopped the smol girl's revenge by grabbing her hand.

Did she think she won't get anything when her Onee-chan asked for it?

"Shirone-nya!?" Surprised at that, the Onee-chan looked at her sister somewhat... guiltily?

Wait, Did she plan to eat her sister's share for real?

"Fufu, they are energic as usual huh. By the way, I want a strawberry shortcake, ok? With extra cream, Shizuku wants the same." Yasaka-san, who was observing from the kitchen door, spoke.

Fortunately, or maybe not, she changed into a new kimono, which as always... showed her cleavage, truly a kitsune that mesmerize males.

Shaking my head to keep my sanity in check, I choose not to comment on her decision to change into a different kimono that she keeps in the house, instead of using Youjutsu to fix her old one.

Looking at Shizuku-san who used the spell method to fix her gear, I wondered... Is there that much difference between a nine-tailed fox-like Yasaka-san and her? It never occurred to me to ask that, but as the two stood so close to one another, I couldn't help but compare.

Kaa-san had a book about it, so I will study it some more later.

...

...

...

It was late in the afternoon, and everyone managed to eat their cakes, not before eating their meals which I made sure to make. The girls ate at Kasen-san's but as expected; they needed a bit more to be full. Leaving the Kitsunes, which gleefully ate what I gave them.

I can't deny that I felt slightly disappointed that I could not eat Yasaka-san's homemade meal.

Convincing the Nekomata sisters to do me a favor, I managed to have them drag Shizuku-san to take a nap together. Kuroka-chan had some things to say as I was left alone with the nine-tailed fox, but as I made a promise to do something she wants... she agreed to leave without raising a ruckus. I need to be careful not to make that promise too often... or it will become difficult for me later on.

*Sigh*

Now then, I guess we got to talk.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Person POV

Being left alone, Nora signaled Yasaka to follow him. He did not say a word; just a simple gesture and Yasaka complied by following him.

It was somewhat expected of her, he surely had much to say. So instead of trying to avoid the subject, she decided to finish this at once. She did feel a bit weary today after her little fight with the shikigami who had her Sensei's appearance.

Just remembering how the fight went made her furious. He had an uncanny ability that let him match her level during the fight. Which she suspected had something to do with the place they were having their battle at.

While the trials occur after going through the Torii that Nora and the girls had used, the 'shrine' building and all the area were probably part of the trial grounds as well, making the damned guy able to use the annoying feature of matching the opponent's level.

It made her want to punch her Sensei so hard, regardless of grateful she was to him.

*Sigh*

Sighing for who knows how many times today, Yasaka came to a stop when Nora just sat on the engawa.

Smiling fondly, she recalled the times when, the three, Saya, Nora, and she would sit to drink tea as they watch the flowers in the garden, talking about nothing serious, purely nonsense.

"I think you know what this is about." A voice interrupted her musings, belonging to Nora.

Staring at him from her standing position, she found it uncomfortable to talk like that so she took a seat beside him. Not facing each other, but looking at the garden.

Nodding in response, she prepared to be reproached for her actions this time. He got hurt because of her so he probably was angry.

"I made it. I took the 'test' and now that I completed it, I will be able to do what I asked of you." Nora spoke.

Blinking slightly, Yasaka was confused for a moment. She was expecting something different.

"... Are you not going to blame me?" Yasaka couldn't help but ask.

Glancing her way slightly, Nora tapped his chin lightly for a moment before he started to nod.

This was it, he was-

"You sure did a number on me with the test. It was a tad bit harder than I thought so I had a bad time in there. I demand a reward, like, right now." Nora mumbled in a serious tone.

When he began talking she closed her eyes expecting a harsh reproach but she couldn't help to crook her head slightly when he started asking for a reward.

She was confused, however-

"What kind of reward?" The blonde woman inquired in a curious tone.

"I was planning to ask you to let me pat your tails a whole day but.... I will save that for later. A lap pillow sounds nice. Is that ok with you?" Nora replied.

Yasaka couldn't help but shudder when he mentioned something about patting her tails the whole day. Nora had a slightly unusual gift in that area, and his skills were pretty good, but... he also causes certain effects sometimes. An effect she tries to forget. The reason why she has not allowed him to touch her ears or tails. It was beyond her how a simple petting can become... No, no, she must not mention that, no matter how he has-

Shaking her head to get rid of those thoughts, she did not mind such a simple request.

Patting her thighs softly, she seemed to signal Nora to lie down.

"Why don't we save that one for later? Come here, this time, it will be you who will lie down." Nora said as he repeated her actions.

A little bewildered, she did as he said, while hiding her fox ears and tails just in case sneakily attacked her(pet them).

As she let her head rest on his lap, she found the feeling slightly foreign to her. No, she did remember a little, the memory was faint, but when she was about Shirone-chan's age... she was spoiled a lot by her mother. Many things happened, and she had to get involved in affairs related to Youkais, having to maintain a dignified front and taking the position of a responsible leader.

"Hey, stop with the difficult thoughts, ok? Just focus on the present." Nora said as he started to stroke her hair softly.

It raised her guard somewhat.

He did say he had feelings for her... would he try to take advantage of her?

"You see... I don't blame you, or maybe I do, just a tiny bit. I mean, you could've been more honest with me. I don't want what happened with Kaa-san to happen again. She never told me anything about what was going on... only knowing about her departure when she was about to leave." Nora spoke using a kind tone. "As I said before, I know that I am not reliable. It is hard to think of me like that. But next time, be honest with me if you don't want me to do something. Don't go using such a round out way... or I will get angry."

Ending his words, he emphasized his feelings by... pulling Yasaka's cheeks.

More surprised than bothered by what he said and what he did, Yasaka did not react.

This, in turn, made Nora stop his actions as he was not sure if he went too far.

"To be honest, I don't want you to go and get involved with human businesses. They are exorcists, people trained to deal with the supernatural. Even now, that I know about your strength... I find it difficult to accept your future actions. Do you have to go?" Yasaka asked in a worried tone.

Smiling wryly, Nora stared at Yasaka.

"What? Did I say anything weird?" The nine-tailed fox inquired as she did not hear an immediate reply.

"Just thinking that you are pretty when you worry about me, haha. That aside. I have no way of knowing how things will turn out. That woman and little girl might do just fine without me getting involved, but... I can't help but feel that a disaster will occur." Nora replied.

Not wanting to touch the subject, she did not speak about the praise she received, although she mentally thanked Nora... since she felt happy to hear that. Instead, she continued to think about his words. There was much more about what the precocious child was telling her.

The blonde-haired kitsune was not naive. His actions were suspicious since a while ago. Starting when he handed her a list with names of people she needed to find.

Not thinking much of it at the beginning, but then finding what the mother and child on the top of the list had been going through. It raised many questions about how he knew about it.

"And you think you can stop that on your own?" Yasaka questioned.

Many things coursed over her head, but she asked what was needed. Unbeknown to herself, Yasaka had already desisted her idea of stopping him as he had done wonderfully in the trials. A new worry had arisen this time around. Confronted with that situation, and the very high possibility of failing to accomplish it with his own hands. How would he fare?

"Haha, you made a really tough question. If I am being honest with you, I had the most naive idea of bringing them to Urakyoto after convincing them, however, that would require your permission." Nora with a bitter smile replied. Putting a finger on Yasaka's mouth, just as she was about to speak.

His smile changed to a mischievous one as Yasaka pouted when he prevented her from talking.

"Now, now. Let me finish, ok? Needing your permission doesn't seem like a big deal. Just asking, it was very likely that you would do it easily. Nevertheless, I wondered... Was that alright?" Nora paused for a moment to move a strand of hair that was messy on Yasaka's hair, sneakily using Ki in the process. "I was going to take a mother and her daughter out of their comfort zone, making them live among unfamiliar people. Not to mention, the father of the girl. How would they meet? As you have probably found out already, the father is a fallen angel and they have a complicated situation."

Carefully combing Yasaka's hair, Nora spoke slowly, trying to explain his point.

"Would it be fair to make it more difficult for them to meet? I don't think it is. It won't be fair to you either. You are not some convenient person I can just come to ask for favors whenever I please. I won't become reliable that way." Nora muttered with a troubled look.

Wanting to say that he was over thinking it, Yasaka tried to speak, but he once again put a finger on her lips.

"At the end of the day, I am just thinking about what is convenient for me. What I have in my hands right now, is the money I have earned, which could be used to get them a house, but that won't stop the harassment. My words? They carry as much weight as a feather. My fists? That is even more laughable. It would cause more trouble for them if I start to kill those guys. Even beating them seems like a difficult option." Nora said.

Staring at him from below, Yasaka could see his troubled expression. She couldn't help but wonder... When was the last time she had a real conversation with him? She has been saying that she was taking care of her best friend's son, but she had been neglecting many things about him, thinking only in keeping safe. Was that the only thing you had to do to take care of someone?

They were similar, she couldn't find the words or the energy to say something back at him... when they had a similar train of thoughts.

"For now, I don't have the answer to your question, but I still want to go and see with my own eyes what is happening, to see what I can do. However, I won't stubbornly deny that I can ask for help. In that regard, I don't mind being called shameless if I have a way to fix the situation just by swallowing my pride and acting 'unreliably'. Life is pretty important." Nora muttered. "Sorry, I might be a bit disappointing."

His words... were a mess. Yasaka could recognize easily that he had been thinking so much about it that he was going in circles. He did have another option, but she found it more to her liking to be relied on. Still, there was one thing she had to make clear.

"I would never be disappointed in you. Nora-kun... you must never say that again. I have so much I want to ask you about this, but I have no right to dig too much right now. Not when I have been acting so irresponsibly, alright, stop. It is my turn to talk now." Yasaka said as she copied Nora, putting her index finger on top of Nora's lip to stop him from talking.

Watching him blush from that simple action, brought a myriad of feelings, which she did not want to consider right now, although she had to try hard to resist the urge to tease him.

"Today's situation, could've been prevented if we had better communication between ourselves. I have been saying that I would take care of you, but it seems I have not been doing a good job." The nine-tailed fox spoke.

As she saw him make a strange face, she guessed that he wanted to deny her words. It made her happy that he thought that way. However, she had to be honest with herself.

"Nora Shiki. Today you accomplished a feat that not many are capable of. I give you permission to move freely, on one condition." Yasaka, pulling her finger back, declared.

"...What condition?" Nora asked.

Smiling at his difficult-to-hide anticipation, the kitsune told him what was coursing through her mind.

"Come back here, whenever you leave. I just want that. I don't want to lose someone else close to me." Yasaka muttered in a heartfelt tone.

At that, Nora widened his eyes for a moment, but without hesitating, he spoke.

"...I will accept that condition." Nora replied in a tone that carried strong conviction.

Smiling contently at those words... Yasaka started to feel sleepy. Blaming Nora who had been combing and stroking her hair, she wondered when he learned to use Ki along with that action. This method helped people to relax; her dear friend used this on patients on several occasions so she was aware of what it caused. Still, it felt wonderful so she did not stop him, having an idea why he was doing this. Letting him spoil her for a bit, she closed her eyes, trying to take a short nap.

In the end, Nora continued to stroke her hair using Senjutsu and Yasaka fell prey before her weariness, falling into a deep sleep. Even when her breathing proved her sleeping state, Nora kept stroking her hair making sure that she was relaxed.

She deserved a good rest, and Nora planned to let her have it.

...

...

...

Yasaka's eyes suddenly opened. The first thing she noticed was the difference in lighting. It was already dark, meaning that it was night.

Blinking confusedly, she was not sure why she slept for this long. Originally she planned to sleep shortly, five or ten minutes. Instead... she slept for who knows how long.

"You were tired. It is normal to sleep longer when that happens." A voice that pulled her out of her musings, said.

The blonde kitsune was familiar with that voice. Looking slightly higher, she could see Nora.

Finally recalling a certain detail, she tried to get up. She fell asleep on his lap all this time.

"Sorry. It must be difficult for you to do this for so long." Yasaka guiltily spoke, her tone was a little flustered.

A pair of hands held her from doing so though. Gently pushing her back, Nora did not let her get up.

"What are you saying? I don't mind it at all. I kind of enjoyed it to be honest." Nora muttered with a slight smile plastered on his face. "You should stay like this for longer. You are probably still tired. I am not sure what you did today, but it doesn't seem to be something simple."

Choosing to remain silent, she did not want to explain what exactly happened.

"*Sigh* Aren't you spoiling me too much?” Yasaka asked.

She did not mind it, but she was afraid of getting used to it.

"Anytime you want, this is the only thing I can do for you besides cooking. Besides... Isn't it a little late for that? I already make you sweets pretty much whenever you ask me." Nora replied.

Yasaka opted to turn her head to one side, not looking him in the eyes.

It was as he said, she indeed did that. Perhaps she was already too used to it that she did not consider it him spoiling her.

"I am happy to do it though." Nora said almost like he read her thoughts.

Wondering if he had acquired mind-reading abilities, Yasaka still felt grateful for those words.

Not wanting to continue this topic, she took the opportunity to ask something else.

"...Are you going to meet the mother-and-daughter pair? If you are after both of them, I think you should give up, she has a happy marriage. Although you can aim at the girl-ouch! It hurts!" Beginning with a serious question, she could help but to joke a little, only for Nora to pull her cheek.

Different from before, he applied more force to the act, stopping Yasaka in her tracks.

“Why are you starting to speak nonsense when it was a serious topic? *Sigh* I am not aiming at anyone. Besides, if I had to aim at a mother-and-daughter pair, it would be you and Kunou-chan. My dark side might like the idea of Rias-chan and V... *Cough* It was a joke, ok? A joke. I was just trying to make you understand my point." Nora hastily explained.

The first part made her quite happy, he was considering her little girl after all... the later part though, kind of pissed her off.

"Alright, let's talk for real ok? I will go see how things are going on for now. In any case, making preparations takes time, but I need to know what I should do." Nora spoke.

*Sigh*

Sighing in defeat, Yasaka knew that this was not going to be easy. She will have to offer her help so he doesn't get in trouble. It is something she won't try to negotiate.

"Can you let me get up now? I think I rested enough." Yasaka muttered.

"I would like you to stay like this for a while longer, but I guess I can't keep you forever like this. Kunou is sleeping in my room. Asamiya-san came by to bring her, and I asked her to take care of her for a bit longer. You were so tired that you did not wake up even when Kunou-chan escaped Asamiya-san's watch to see you. She got bored though and started to play with me."Nora explained. "Now, Asamiya-san let her sleep in my room as she wanted to go there for some reason, I am not sure why you girls like that place so much."

Tilting his head confusedly, Nora was lost in thought.

Yasaka was not going to be the one to tell him the reason so he will have to remain clueless for quite some time.

A little relieved, she got up. Nora did not stop her this time. The kitsune wanted to see her child. It had been a long day and it bothered how little time she spent with her.

--------------------------------------------

3rd Person POV

Dragging his body to his room, Nora had just come back from saying his goodbyes to the three blondies.

Kuroka and Shirone had successfully made sure that Shizuku slept despite her objections, the two girls complained about her snores though, a proof that she was weary. Nora was not sure how difficult the trial was for her, but considering the part where it matched the challenger's strength, then it couldn't be a simple test.

Thinking about it... Yasaka looked much better. Nora was glad that he made her take a nap. He also enjoyed her company and their small chat... which he would like to think will bring them a little closer.

Smirking a little, he recalled that Yasaka put an angry look when he joked about taking the mother-and-daughter pair of Rias and Venelana. Nora was happy that she reacted that way to his joke. The feeling was extremely faint, but he could be sure that it was Yasaka being jealous.

"Yasaka-san was jelly~ She was, she was~ Yasaka-san was jelly~" Humming and singing a weird song, Nora opened his bedroom’s door.

Only to find-

A pair of intruders had spread their futon mattress on each side of his mattress.

"You are late-nya. I almost fell asleep-nya! Look, Shirone-nya is almost there-nya." Kuroka pointed at Shirone who was sitting as she moved from one side to another.... her eyes barely open.

Blinking, Nora took one second to understand what happened.

Putting an expression like there was no other choice, he just shrugged his shoulders and walked in.

"Sorry, I made you girls wait, be right back." Nora went to look for his change of clothes before going to the bathroom to put on his sleepwear.

"Why do you leave your room every time you want to change-nya?" Kuroka tilted her head in confusion.

Sweating a little, Nora wanted to retort about he had to do so because they were in his room, but explaining about personal space to someone who sometimes breaks-in into his bathing time seemed useless.

"It is normal to do so." Nora said, not wanting to discuss.

"Nya? I don't understand-nya, but Nora-nya can do what he wants. Never mind that-nya! I got something interesting here. Read me this-nya." Kuroka exclaimed in a happy mood.

In her hands, she carried something familiar to Nora. A notepad... similar to the one he got on the trials. At those words, the half-sister Shirone reacted and raised hers with upturned eyes.

At this moment, Nora knew that he won't be able to sleep early. However, he was not able to say no. This was a simple request of the Nekomata sisters, which was something he found difficult to deny.

"Sure... Just wait for a moment." The green-eyed nekomata replied.

...

...

...

Minutes later, he was back. Taking a seat on his futon, he extended a hand to each girl to get the reading material.

Swiftly, they both placed what they wanted him to read them.

"Let's see... Kuroka-chan gave me... 'Steps for a perfect and beautiful body that he won't resist'? Wh-" "NYAAAA!? NO, NO, NO-NYA. IT IS THIS ONE-NYA."

Such an exchange occurred between Nora and Kuroka, and the kitty went red, taking back the notepad Nora was reading to replace it with another one.

Feeling like he shouldn't ask, Nora just let it pass. So he just tactfully began reading the new notepad.

"All about Nekomatas. Nekomatas are Youkais who have always been few in numbers so they are inclined to look for strong males to mate... KYAAAAA!!!. WHAT ARE YOU MAKING ME READ ALOUD, YOU DUMB CAT!!!" Nora complained.

He did not want to explain mating or anything related to that to them. It came as a huge surprise when he found himself reading about such a thing.

Sweating coldly, Nora wondered what kind of punishment game was this.

Kuroka and Shirone were clueless about what he meant. As they stared at him with pure eyes filled with curiosity, which made him sweat more.

Suddenly, Kuroka seemed to get an idea.

"I recall that Okaa-sama once said-nya, that once I find someone I like, I should make him my mate-nya. Then... Nora-nya is my mate-nya. What about Shirone-nya?" Kuroka asked.

"What is a mate?" Shirone questioned.

"It is someone who will always be with you-nya!" Kuroka happily replied.

The smol kitty just nodded in response. It could be that she was accepting her sister's words, or she simply was too sleepy to answer. Only she knew.

At that, Nora was once again sweating. He had complex feelings about it. He was happy to hear it, but he could not be completely happy as they were clueless, and he also felt that he would be taking advantage of them here if he just accepted their words.

Reluctant to explain the whole business, he suddenly had an epiphany... he could leave this to someone else. What a wonderful idea, Nora thought.

"I think it is a little early for you girls to talk or decide about that. You don't know a thing about it... so why don't you ask Shizuku-san and Yasaka-san? They would surely answer your questions." Nora sagely muttered.

Once again, the two girls were not sure what he meant, although-

"But I don't like anyone else besides Nora-nya. I think I will still choose you-nya." Kuroka spoke.

"I like Nora." Shirone nodded.

This left the male Nekomata a little confused as he was not sure how to face their pure expressions.

Instead of trying to talk about it more, he avoided the topic by taking a look at Shirone's notepad.

"Here we go. 'Innate use of Ki. For those who unconsciously use Ki, it can be hard to learn complicated techniques. But there is one thing they find easy to do, and that is to find the point to perfectly synchronize Senjutsu and Touki. It brings incredible effects, raising the combat power and natural abilities exponentially. It is called Natural State, and it is something difficult to the archive by those who work consciousness of their ki'. Ok... This is too hard for a bedtime story." Nora muttered as Shirone practically fell to one side, waking up when he held her. "Can you look for a book to read her? Sorry, but I will spoil her today a bit more".

Sounding apologetic, Nora asked that.

The Onee-chan of the white Neko just nodded.

Walking out of the room to look for the book, Kuroka stopped just as she crossed the door.

"I don't mind-nya. Instead.... do the same thing you did to that lady to me-nya. I want to fall asleep on your lap too-nya" Kuroka said as she swiftly left to look for a story to read.

Smiling wryly at those words, Nora just-

"Sure, anytime." Nora muttered to himself... and Shirone who was resting her head on his lap already.

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