SWNOVELXO Chapter 9: Next day
Another warm and cheerful morning bathed the world in a gentle glow as Raizel sat in his usual serene posture, quietly sipping his morning tea.
The peaceful atmosphere seemed to blend seamlessly with his calm demeanor, each sip deliberate and graceful. Standing beside him, ever loyal and composed, was Frankenstein, his long-time servant and confidant.
Frankenstein watched his master with a subtle smile, the morning light catching the faint glint in his eyes. "Master, it seems the world is adapting well to your presence," he remarked, his tone respectful yet filled with a quiet pride.
His gaze steady and thoughtful. "The world may change, but some things remain constant," he said softly, his words carrying a profound weight.
Frankenstein nodded, understanding the deeper meaning behind Raizel's simple statement. "Indeed, Master. However, the students at Kuoh Academy are certainly curious about you. It seems your presence has stirred quite the intrigue."
Raizel offered a faint, almost imperceptible smile. "Let them be curious. In time, they will come to understand."
The two remain in comfortable silence, the quiet morning air filled with unspoken understanding between them. It was a rare moment of tranquility, a brief respite before the inevitable challenges of the day.
After some time had passed, Raizel set down his teacup, his calm gaze shifting to Frankenstein. "Tell me," he inquired softly, "what do you know about the devils at this academy? Why are they here?"
Frankenstein straightened slightly, his expression serious yet respectful. "Master, the devils here are part of a noble family within the underworld. They've integrated into the human world to observe and maintain balance, much like other supernatural beings. They are not hostile, but they are certainly cautious."
Raizel nodded slowly, his eyes thoughtful. "And they are aware of my presence?"
Frankenstein hesitated for a moment before answering. "Yes, Master. I took the liberty of informing them about you. I felt it was necessary to ensure transparency and prevent any misunderstandings. They are aware of your power and your role as the Noblesse."after breif pause he continued. "I know you don't want them to interfere in the human society too much."
Raizel's expression remained unreadable, his calm demeanor unwavering. "I see. Their curiosity is understandable, but they must know I have no intention of interfering with their affairs."
Frankenstein bowed slightly. "Of course, Master. They seem more intrigued than wary. However, I will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure there are no complications."
Raizel gave a slight nod of approval. "Very well. Let them observe as they wish. We have nothing to hide."
The conversation ended as smoothly as it had begun, the air filled with a mutual understanding between the two. Though Raizel's presence had undoubtedly drawn attention, he remained steadfast in his purpose, unfazed by the intrigue surrounding him.
....
As Raizel walked along the road, a group of girls eagerly approached him, their chatter filled with admiration and curiosity. He acknowledged them with a calm nod but continued on his way, his presence alone enough to draw attention.
As he walked, his sharp eyes spotted Rias and Issei standing nearby, deep in conversation with Sona and the student council. They seemed to be discussing him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and caution.
Issei, true to form, couldn't resist his usual antics, loudly bad-mouthing Raizel in a bid to vent his frustrations. "What's so great about him anyway?" he grumbled, earning a playful jab from Akeno. Smiling mischievously, she teased him, "Jealous, Issei? Maybe you should learn a thing or two from him."
Noticing the commotion, Akeno sauntered over to Raizel, her usual playful smirk in place. "Raizel," she began, her tone dripping with charm, "you're always so calm and composed. Doesn't anything ever faze you?"
Raizel regarded her with his usual calm gaze, his response swift and disarming. "It's difficult to be fazed when in the presence of such beauty," he said softly, his eyes never leaving hers.
Akeno's confident demeanor faltered instantly, a flush rising to her cheeks as she stammered, caught off guard. The sudden shift in her composed facade left everyone stunned—especially Issei, Rias, Sona, and the student council, who had never seen Akeno so visibly flustered.
For once, the tables had turned, and it was Akeno who found herself speechless, her usual teasing bravado completely shattered by Raizel's effortlessly delivered compliment.
Akeno, still flustered, tried to muster a comeback, but her usual wit failed her. "I... you..." she stammered, her cheeks growing even redder as she fumbled for words.
In an attempt to regain her composure, she forced a smile, but the blush remained, leaving her a blushing mess.
Meanwhile, Issei continued his usual antics, oblivious to the shift in the atmosphere. "See? Even Akeno can't handle him! What's so special about this guy?" he blurted, earning a collective sigh from the others.
Rias, however, kept her focus on Raizel. Her curiosity about him only deepened with every interaction. "Raizel," she began, her tone more serious, "we've heard a lot about you. What exactly is your purpose here at Kuoh Academy?"
Raizel met her gaze calmly, his expression serene. "I am here to observe and learn," he replied simply. "Nothing more, nothing less."
His straightforward answer left Rias thoughtful, while Akeno continued to struggle to regain her composure.
The others, including Sona and the student council, watched the scene unfold with intrigue, realizing that Raizel's presence was far more impactful than they had anticipated.
As Akeno stood there, still struggling to compose herself, she suddenly heard Raizel's calm voice in her mind. "It's quite lovely when you blush," his telepathic message echoed softly, catching her off guard.
For a moment, she was confused, her eyes widening as she glanced around, wondering if she had imagined it.
Then, the realization hit her—Raizel had spoken directly into her mind. Her blush deepened, and she bit her lip, trying to suppress the flutter of emotions stirring within her.
Determined not to let him have the upper hand, she gathered her courage and leaned in slightly, her voice low but teasing. "Using telepathy now, Raizel? Are you always this bold, or do I just bring it out in you?"
Raizel's expression remained as composed as ever, his gaze steady and unwavering. "Perhaps you do," he responded aloud, his tone calm yet with an undertone that sent a shiver down her spine.
Akeno tried to keep her teasing facade, but the warmth spreading across her face betrayed her. Despite her best efforts, Raizel's effortless charm had left her flustered once again, much to the silent amusement of the others watching the exchange unfold.
.....