A week had passed since Rias’ visit, and the Gremory group had settled into their school life in the human world. Their days followed a steady rhythm: school during the day, devil work after hours. Things had finally found their pace.
One night, Rias received a phone call. After hanging up, she addressed her peerage:
“Everyone, I have news. This weekend, there will be a gathering of devil nobility. We are expected to attend.”
Kiba sighed. “Another gathering? Wasn’t the last one just two months ago?”
Akeno smiled. “Well, knowing the nobility, there must be a reason.”
Koneko muttered, “What a bother.”
Rias nodded. “I know this is unexpected, but I expect everyone to be on their best behavior.”
“Yes, President!” the room responded in unison.
Everyone returned to their tasks, and the weekend arrived quickly. The group prepared for the noble banquet, each donning their finest attire. Rias wore a striking red dress that matched her hair, Akeno dressed in a traditional yukata, and Koneko chose a more modest dress.
Together, they teleported to the Gremory estate in the Underworld.
Upon arrival, Venelana and Grayfia welcomed them warmly. Soon, they would depart for the gathering. Before leaving, Venelana called Rias aside for a private word.
“I need you to know, Lord and Lady Phenex will be attending. Riser will obviously be there. I just hope you won’t start a scene.”
Rias smiled reassuringly. “No, Mother. You don’t have to worry about me.”
Venelana studied her daughter, then smiled. “Good. Just be polite, dear.”
After a brief silence, Rias hesitated before asking, “I was also wondering if the youngest son of the Phenex family would be present.”
Venelana’s smile turned sheepish. “Oh? Someone you’re hoping to see?”
Rias looked away, slightly flustered. “Just… curious, that’s all.”
Venelana chuckled. “Well, from what I’ve heard from Rhea, she’ll be bringing Raza-kun this time. She can be quite persistent when she wants to be. Fufufu.”
“I see. Normally, he doesn’t attend these gatherings, so I was just curious,” Rias replied.
Venelana watched her daughter thoughtfully. “Is there something you wish to ask Raza-kun?”
Rias nodded. “I wanted to talk to him, actually. I’m just wondering what he’s really like. He has quite an… infamous reputation, as you know.”
“And what exactly are you hoping to find out when you meet him?” Venelana asked.
“Well… that’s what I want to find out. I saw him once, five years ago. He had this goofy smile, even as everyone whispered about him bringing Armageddon. But then I saw him with Sairaorg, and he just seemed… like he was where he wanted to be. I want to talk to him. It’s long overdue. By the way, did you know that he and Sairaorg have been training together all this time?”
Venelana smiled knowingly. “Of course, dear. I knew that as well.”
Rias gaped. “What? But how?”
Venelana simply grinned. “I’m not going to tell you everything I know, my dear. Fufufu. For what it’s worth, I think your decision about Raza is the right one. Now, go and get ready.
We have a banquet to attend.”
To be continued.