Chapter 37: Break - 1
Raizel's eyes remained fixed on the horizon, the last remnants of daylight fading into twilight.
His calm demeanor persisted as he addressed Azazel. "Is there anything else?"
Azazel chuckled softly, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "As you should know, due to recent events, the leaders of the fallen angels, angels, and devils have decided to hold a summit. A rare occasion, wouldn't you agree?"
Raizel turned his head slightly, his expression still unreadable. "Are you just here to inform me of this?"
Azazel waved a hand dismissively, his grin widening. "Nah, nah. That's not the only reason. I have a special request." He paused for dramatic effect, his tone taking on a mock-seriousness. "I want 'Mr. Noblesse' to accompany me when the time comes. It wouldn't be a proper summit without you, after all."
Raizel regarded him silently for a moment, then gave a simple hum of approval. "Hmm."
Azazel's grin turned sly as he leaned in slightly. "Now, while we're on the topic of rare occasions, I've been wondering about something else. Tell me, Raizel, do you have a love interest?"
Raizel's expression didn't change, but there was a faint hue on his cheeks that didn't go unnoticed. "Is that relevant to the summit?"
Azazel laughed, clearly enjoying himself. "Not at all, but I can't help my curiosity. After all, someone as powerful and enigmatic as you must have caught the eye of more than a few admirers."
Raizel remained composed, his voice steady. "I have no such distractions."
Azazel smirked, crossing his arms. "You're a tough one, Raizel. No hints, no slips. But if you won't share, maybe I should brag a little about my own love life."
Raizel's gaze shifted back to the horizon, his tone indifferent. "If it will end this conversation faster, by all means."
Azazel chuckled, taking that as permission. "You see, I've had my fair share of admirers too. The perks of being charming and powerful, I suppose. You wouldn't believe some of the stories I could tell."
Raizel raised an eyebrow slightly, his voice tinged with dry amusement. "I'm sure your tales are as exaggerated as your ego."
Azazel laughed loudly, clearly amused by the banter. "Touché. But you know, it wouldn't hurt to loosen up a bit. Maybe you'll find someone who can match your... unique qualities."
Raizel's expression softened slightly, a rare flicker of amusement crossing his face. "I'll take that under advisement."
Azazel grinned, satisfied with their exchange. "That's all I ask. Well, I suppose I've taken enough of your time for now. I'll see you at the summit, Raizel."
With that, Azazel turned, giving a casual wave as he disappeared into the night. Raizel remained on the rooftop, the faintest hint of a smile lingering on his lips.
The wind rustled softly, carrying away the remnants of their conversation. For Raizel, the night was far from over, but for now, he allowed himself a moment of peace, the distant stars beginning to twinkle above.
---
The summer sun shone brightly over the academy, casting its golden light across the grounds.
The peerage along with Raizel, had decided to take a break from their usual duties to clean up the school's pool, hoping to enjoy some light-hearted moments together.
The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and chatter as everyone prepared for the task ahead.
Raizel, ever composed, had changed into the academy's summer sports uniform. His perfect frame, lean and athletic, was on full display, drawing the attention of everyone present.
His dark hair contrasted sharply with his pale skin, and his ruby eyes glimmered under the sun's rays. As they gathered at the poolside, the group couldn't help but take notice.
Akeno, who had always maintained a calm and teasing demeanor, found herself feeling an unfamiliar pang of jealousy.
As the other girls giggled and exchanged playful remarks about Raizel's physique, Akeno stepped forward, positioning herself subtly between him and the others. Her usual teasing smile remained, but there was a hint of possessiveness in her eyes.
"Oh my, Raizel, you certainly know how to attract attention," Akeno said, her voice sweet but with an edge. She shot a glance at the other girls, who continued to giggle and tease.
Koneko, ever blunt, smirked slightly. "Akeno-senpai, are you getting jealous?"
Akeno's cheeks flushed faintly, though she maintained her composure. "Jealous? Of course not. I'm just making sure Raizel doesn't get overwhelmed by all the attention."
The girls exchanged knowing looks, their teasing continuing. "Sure, Akeno. Whatever you say," Rias chimed in, her tone playful.
Meanwhile, Issei, who had been watching the scene unfold, couldn't contain his jealousy. "Why does Raizel get all the attention? It's not fair!" he exclaimed, crossing his arms. "He's always calm even in a situation like this, it's really annoying. It's like he's trying to make the rest of us look bad!"
Raizel, unfazed by the comments, continued to clean the pool, his movements graceful and efficient.
Akeno, however, couldn't help but smirk at Issei's outburst. "Now, now, Issei. There's no need to be so upset. Maybe if you focused on the task at hand, you'd earn some attention too."
Issei groaned, feeling the sting of her words. "Easy for you to say. You're always around Raizel!"
Just as Akeno was about to respond, she noticed Raizel standing by the pool, his gaze fixed on her. Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world seemed to fade away. Akeno's heart skipped a beat as she walked over to him.
"Raizel," she began softly, her voice carrying a rare tenderness. "You've been quiet today."
Raizel tilted his head slightly, his expression serene. "There's much to observe. And I find these moments... peaceful and enjoyable."
Akeno smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "I'm glad. You deserve some peace after everything."
As they stood there, their faces drawing closer, the moment seemed perfect. But just as their lips were about to meet, Issei's voice rang out again, breaking the tranquility. "Hey! Are you two seriously about to—?"
Akeno groaned inwardly, her face flushing with embarrassment as the others turned to watch. Raizel remained composed, though there was a subtle twitch in his jaw.
In the depths of Raizel's mind. EL chimed in with its usual sarcastic tone.
[Well, well, another interrupted moment. You're really on a roll, Raizel. Should I start keeping count?]
Raizel's mental voice was sharp. 'Is this amusing to you?'
The system chuckled.
[Oh, absolutely. Watching you navigate these... human interactions is the highlight of my day.]
Raizel sighed internally, his frustration masked by his calm exterior. 'If you're going to troll me, at least be useful.'
[Oh, I am. After all, who else would keep you entertained?]
The system replied, still chuckling.
Back in the real world, Akeno crossed her arms, giving Issei a pointed look. "Issei, must you always interrupt?"
Issei looked sheepish, scratching the back of his head. "Sorry, Akeno. I just... well, I couldn't help it."
The others laughed, the tension dissipating as the playful banter resumed.
As the group returned to cleaning the pool, the summer sun continued to shine, casting its warm glow over them. The day was filled with laughter, teasing, and moments of quiet reflection.
...