My Life In Blue Exorcist

(Next day)

I wake up to the rays of sunlight coming through the blinds as they greet me to a new day. It's 5 am like always as I drag myself out of bed to have my training with Sora. I wonder if she'll be hard on me because I missed a day of training? I have casual thoughts like those as I brush my teeth and use my flames to clean the sweat off my body. I don't even begin to fix my bed hair since I'm sure it'll get even messier while training.

(Sora): "Morning, Rin! Damn, you look like a Zombie."

As soon as I got outside the Dorm I was greeted by a lightly panting Sora who seems to have come back from a run. She's wearing the school white P.E. shirt and red bloomers, giving her the hardworking youthful vibe but weirdly enough she doesn't look like she's broken a sweat.

Seriously, what time do you wake up? It's only 5:17 in the damn morning!

(Rin): "And you're just as energetic as ever. Do you even sleep?"

I say that tiredly before looking at Sora with genuine confusion. Either you don't sleep, or you sleep way too early. Wish my children would have that kind of energy. They love sleeping in. I guess they love their naps like I do.

(Sora): "Haha, you'd be surprised that I do sleep. I'm just an early bird that catches the lazy worm."

Sora says that with a cheeky smile as her eyes shine with a mischievous glint. Why is this the most common eyes I see?

(Rin): "Oh? But this zombie worm has fangs, you know?"

I say that with a wide smile to show her my small fangs. Although they're small, they can easily cut through tough meats. It makes it easier to eat certain foods.

(Sora): "Even more reason to wake up early. Bet you didn't know the bird is actually a hawk!"

Sora says that with a chuckle as we both laugh a bit. We have the stupidest conversations sometimes.

(Rin): "Alright, let's stop this and start training. Are we gonna continue from 2 days ago?"

Seeing as our conversation wasn't going to end soon, I immediately cut it off so I could begin my strength training.

(Sora): "Oh boo, you're no fun. And yeah, you'll be learning how to throw a ball and score 3-pointers."

Sora says that with a small pout before heading to her bag to get a basketball. Sora usually behaves like a tomboy, but seeing her like this is cute.

(Rin): "Awesome."

I replied as I readied myself for the lesson. Sora taught me the basic form with an example as she shoots the ball into the hoop. I tried following her example as best I could, but I always ended up overshooting it.

I wonder if I'm just useless outside of combat? When the adrenaline rushes in me I'm just able to focus and do things my normal self can't do, that includes my flame techniques and normal output power.

I was having thoughts like these as I finally managed to hit the ring for the first time. Yeah, it didn't go in the hoop yet, but it's a start! I got happy before trying even harder to score. After another 30 minutes, I finally managed to adjust to the right power and since then I've been shooting 3 pointers even while moving around or being guarded by Sora. .

(Sora): "...You know professionals would kill you if they found out how easy you've mastered this skill."

Sora says that with a sigh before making a big smile and patting my shoulder. Looks like she's happy for the improvements.

(Rin): "Well, if they want to kill me then that means they're jealous, but acknowledge my abilities."

I say that with a smile as I take what she said as a compliment if anything. Though I wonder if they'll be an idiot who'll try killing me for such a stupid reason? Hmm, it's an anime world so you never know, huh.

(Sora): "Careful what you say, big boy, don't give the more crazy ones a reason to beat you up."

Sora says that whilst tip-toeing a little to pat me on the head with a toothy grin before making my bed hair even worse. This feels weird but comforting.

(Rin): "Oh? If I can't beat them in their own game, I won't give them the chance."

I wonder what it would be like for Demons to play sports? Surely that would be a madness for the scoreboards or the humans at the audience.

(Sora): "Alright, training is done for today, I'll continue my run before coming back here to grab a bite."

Sora says that as she ties her semi-long hair, that goes to her shoulder, into a loose ponytail before doing some stretches. Her skin-tight clothes emphasised her curves and muscles with every stretch she does. It's quite a sight to see, to be honest. Especially since she's the most muscular out of the girls.

(Rin): "I'll be waiting for the madam."

I say that with an exaggerated bow before getting back up to see Sora begin her run.

(Sora): "Haha, thanks, chef."

After waving our byes to each other, I headed back to the dorm room to wake up Kuro and Midori before heading to the bath for a long relaxing bath. After 2 hours, we finally left the bathtub and got changed before heading to the kitchen where Sora and the girls are at.

(Sora): "Wow, you take forever to take a bath. You sure you're a demon and not a bathtub spirit instead?"

Sora says that whilst laying her head on the table, holding her stomach as it makes a cute, loud noise. Sora blushed when she heard her stomach grumble, and tried pretending it wasn't here as I chuckled in response. I never thought she had moments like these.

(Rin): "Yep, I like taking long baths every day. It helps me relax and just think to be honest. Call me the 'Bath King' from now on."

I say a little joke whilst proudly raising my ċhėst. Taking a hot bath every day is the best. Fight me if you disagree.

(Naneko): "I know what you mean, I like taking naps in the bath or straight afterwards too. They feel soo much better than normal ones!"

Naneko says that as she does some stretches as if she's woken up. Well, I can't tell if she was sleeping or not since her hair makes it impossible to tell. Why does she always cover that eye with her hair? She'd look cuter if it was to the side instead. Oh well.

(Kuro): "Me too!"

Kuro immediately agrees to Naneko as they both air high five each other from opposite sides of the table since they're both too lazy to lean over. I wonder if this is just a cat thing?

(Naneko): "Yay, another member of the bathing nap gang."

The two of them agree to some kind of common interest as they smile at each other. These two are too alike sometimes.

(Akane): "I didn't think you two had a few screws loose."

Akane says that to Kuro whilst giving him a head pat. Kuro simply smiles it off, not minding Akane calling him weird while Naneko laughs it off.

(Sora): "Haha, like you're one to talk Akane."

(Akane): "Oi, I don't want to hear that from the muscle head."

Almost immediately afterwards, Sora comments on Akane who doesn't take it lightly. Yep, everyone here is weird, but I like it.

(Sora): "Oi, I'm not a muscle head!"

Sora stands up from her chair as she says that in protest. The two of them glare at each other before breaking into laughter.

(Rin): "Haha, just another morning, huh. Well, I'll make us some breakfast. Try not to ruin the place while I'm gone."

Seeing as things are normal like always, I decided to excuse myself to make some breakfast.

(Sora): "No prob. Oh yeah, I'm ordering bean bags and other stuff to decorate this place up, hope you don't mind."

Sora says that just before I entered the kitchen. The kids' expressions light up as soon as she mentions the bean bags. They've been big fans of them since going to the culture club. This room is just the clubroom V2, huh. Guess it doesn't hurt to add stuff to the place.

(Rin): "You might as well live here at this point. Yukio might complain about it, but I don't mind."

I replied with some interest in how she plans to decorate this place up before I head to the kitchen. I wonder if they plan to make this their hang out area or something. Oh well, breakfast was as 'normal' as it can be with 5 Demons and Sora sharing a table together as the girls start feeding the kids again.

(Sora): "See ya guys later! I'll be off to see my Tsuno now~!"

Once breakfast was done, our guest soon left once the clock hit 9. We said our goodbyes to her before I looked at my kids, Naneko and Akane for a talk. It's finally time.

(Rin): "Okay, let's get a few things started while we have this chance."

The kids give a 'Looks like it's finally happening' face whilst Naneko and Akane tilt their heads in confusion.

(Rin): "So, you guys remember why I made this organisation, right?"

I started with a question as the girls seem even more confused about what I'm doing.

(Naneko): "Because you have doubts about the Order and want to make sure Demons and Humans don't destroy the world?"

(Akane): "To fight against strong Demons and Humans?"

The girls give their answers before I give them my own. Seriously Akane? Though I can't deny that one. I've picked that up from you and Chelsea unfortunately.

(Rin): "It's a bit of an ambitious goal of mine, but yeah, I don't want the chaos of the future to affect my daily lifestyle of enjoying whatever random crap we do. But I can't lie, I do enjoy the battles though."

I say that whilst scratching my head thinking how childish my reasons are. Not really noble or anything, just selfishness that happens to branch over other people. Oh well, let's just see how they react to them.

(Naneko): "How very noble of you."

Naneko says that sarcastically as she rolls her non-hidden eye but she doesn't seem to hate the idea. This might work out.

(Rin): "Better than the people who proclaim to have a just cause but end up betraying everyone's trust. I rather have my intentions out, then and there"

I say that sarcastically in response to Naneko before being asked a question by Akane

(Akane): "Okay, but how do we go about stopping the chaos?"

(Rin): "No clue."

I give them an honest expression with a smile as I tell them the truth. The world is still unknown to me and I don't know every outcome possible. I have the feeling that even Canon stuff will change thanks to the things I've done so far, so I can't make a foolproof plan with too many variables in the way. Plus the anime and manga are too different. I wouldn't be surprised if the worlds are merged or something completely different happens instead.

(Kage): "Tou-san… you must have some kind of plan else you would not have called us here or form the organisation."

Kage was the first to speak as her black eyes glimmered in confusion. I give her a head pat before continuing speaking.

(Rin): "You're correct, Kage. Although I don't know how to stop the potential future chaos, I do know we can train up our combat and support abilities till the time comes."

I can't make plans with so many variables in this world like the Sin emperors or even Mephisto playing his hand in certain places. I wouldn't be surprised if I have to fight the emperors and what-not while dealing with Canon.

(Naneko): "And what makes you think that's the case? How are you certain that the future is as bad as you say it is or if the Order is as bad as you think."

Naneko, still sceptical of my decision, asks me with a look of seriousness and confusion. Looks like she's finally warming up on me though. Her reaction is natural, I wouldn't believe someone right away if they were doing things like me.

(Rin): "Because when I awakened my flames… I saw visions of the future. A future where there was chaos at every corner. In those visions, I had to make some hard decisions as well… I don't want that to happen when both me and the people around me are still weak."

I give them a half-lie to explain my decisions which causes everyone to nod their heads. But when I looked down to Kage, I noticed her eyes looked shocked before going back to normal. Did she notice something in my speech? Interesting.

(Akane): "Now that sounds noble enough, don't you agree, Nano?"

(Naneko): "Yep, definitely sounds a lot better than before."

Akane helps convince Naneko to the cause whilst I put my questions about Kage to the back of my head. I guess I'll question about it later. That seemed off to me.

(Akane): "So how do we get to a good enough level? It's not like we can devote all our time training while we manage our hobbies and school."

(Rin): "Simple."

Akane asked the question I was hoping for as I simply wave my hand while releasing silver flames to create the portal to the pocket dimension. The other side looks as empty as I remember it, but I'll fix that issue someday. Especially since I convinced Miss Moriyama for some basic plants and grass seeds. Now I just need to see if the soil is good enough for plants to grow, or see if my flames can give some nutrients to the herbs somehow.

(Akane): "Did you get a new ability?"

Akane says that whilst looking at the portal in confusion before poking at its water-like surface. It's the first time she's seen the pocket dimension, after all. The last time she saw me use this ability was when I came crashing into my room with Kage in my arms.

(Rin): "I'll explain more about this as we head inside. Can't be too sure if the walls have ears in this room."

I say that whilst looking at a certain bug on the wall wearing a bowtie and hat. Damn, I could just bȧrėly locate that little bastard…

(Akane): "Okay."

Akane nods her head and replies before walking into the portal. She was then followed by Kuro and the rest of the kids before the only one remaining was Naneko, who was still a little wary of me.

(Naneko): "This better not be a plan for something bad."

Naneko says that with her arms folded, emphasising her ċhėst a little. It's strange how she changes behaviour whenever I mention something about Demons. Must be something about her background.

(Rin): "Haah, it's not. It's more to protect you guys from anything that may happen because you guys are with me. You can choose to believe me or not, the choice is yours."

I got a little annoyed of Naneko's guard against me, but I guess I need to get used to this when I reveal everyone my flames. Only a few months left till the grand reveal. Gotta make it a good one for the history books.

(Naneko): "Alright, I'll believe you for now."

Naneko sighed before agreeing then entered the portal. I looked at her exit before thinking to myself a little on what to do with the little bug on the wall. I immediately made a crystal shard by burning time before throwing it towards Mephisto's bug body. He bȧrėly dodged that one, but I didn't stop as I threw a few more, making him get trapped in a mini crystal prison.

My accuracy has improved, huh.

(Rin): "Stop being so nosy in other people's business."

I say tiredly as this isn't the only time I noticed him lurking around. He's been keeping watch on me for the last few days, but I stayed silent because I thought he'd leave if I'm not doing anything suspicious. I'm pretty sure he was there yesterday when I chucked the Exorcist out of Shiemi's Mums shop.

(Mephisto): "Now now young Rin. Violence is not the answer."

I roll my eyes at Mephisto's words as he speaks in a cute high pitched voice in his bug form. This coming from the puppet master who likes creating battles for the original Rin for the sake of his entertainment.

(Rin): "Just watch yourself, I don't want to accidentally kill a bug when they get annoying."

I say that with a serious face as I hate people who involve themselves to me when I don't want them to. No reason to let him continue spying on me.

(Mephisto): "I do apologise. I was making sure the decorations were appropriate for the children's' I have guardianship of."

Uh-huh, what other bullshit excuse do you have under that hat of yours?

(Rin): "Don't blame me if I accidentally kill ya. Ciao."

I say that whilst giving him the middle finger before entering the portal, feeling the weird sensation of having time slowed down once again. I don't like that guy, he creeps me out and annoys me. I can imagine him being even more annoying in the future.

(Akane): "Geez, you took way too long getting here."

As soon as I entered the Pocket Dimension, Akane says that whilst frowning a bit. I guess even with the portal open, the time delay is still active.

(Rin): "Sorry, I had to make sure a few things were alright before heading in."

I pat the pouting girl till she calmed down a little before looking at the others to speak. Kuro and Midori seem the most excited about being here again, whereas the other girls don't have a clue of what's going on.

(Rin): "Alright, let's get started with our training."

I clapped my hands twice, whilst closing the portal to finalise this decision. Everyone but one seemed happy about this.

(Naneko): "I should've guessed…"

Naneko says out loud as she slumps her shoulders with a sigh. This cat really is lazy, huh. I guess my job is to fix that a little.

(Akane): "Nano doesn't like moving around a lot."

(Naneko): "Oi, that's not true!"

Akane says what I had in mind before being denied by Naneko, who tries to come up with something in response but couldn't think of anything. I had to hold my laughter a little before getting glared by Naneko.

(Kage): "What will our training include?"

Kage tugged on my sleeves before asking that question. I gave the kid a pat herself before replying.

(Rin): "Well it's different for everyone but first, I want all of you to fight me one-by-one. It'll give me a better understanding of what you guys can do and what to improve on."

The best way to train someone is to see what their strengths and weaknesses are. So a spar against me should clear some of it. I would say my anime knowledge would help me here, but all the animes I've watched are here in this world, so the others are aware of them. All under the company "Mephy Studios" which is a little suspicious.

(Naneko): "Won't you get tired after the 3rd person? You'd hurt yourself if you're not careful."

Naneko looks at me questioning if my average frame can support that many fights. Don't mess with a Demon, kitty. I may not look it, but I have decent muscles and can beat most Olympic athletes.

Though no six-pack yet, I'm working towards one...

(Kuro): "Father's stronger than he looks."

(Midori): "Yeah, he packs quite a punch."

Kuro and Midori immediately responded to Naneko which surprised her and made me feel a little warm inside. These kids are the best.

(Naneko): "Oh? So you've hit your kids huh."

Oi, don't make me sound like an abusive father!

(Rin): "For training purposes, idiot."

I quickly dismissed what she said before moving into the actual training. I hope those kids won't tell their teachers though. They'll definitely misunderstand and cause me a headache.

(Rin): "Now then, when we're sparring, remember to use all your basic abilities. The best way to get stronger is by repeatedly using those abilities until you find new uses for them."

(Kuro): "I'll go first!"

I tell them my instructions before having Kuro raise his hand out to pick him. I laughed at his eagerness before agreeing. He's the most experienced in fighting out of my kids, but still lacks techniques.

(Rin): "Sure little buddy."

(Kuro): "Yay!"

Kuro jumps up in victory before getting himself into position to fight. His starting form is like a sprinter about to run for a race. I got myself in position with a bokken before waiting for the countdown by Akane.

(Akane): "3... 2... 1… Fight!"

As soon as Akane reached to one, Kuro immediately pushed himself towards me with a higher velocity than when I first fought him. I smiled at the child who could bȧrėly walk when he turned humanoid to reach superspeed. I raised my bokken to block his claw before sidestepping to the left to avoid his other claw. The exchange continued as such with me mainly defending and analysing Kuro's attack patterns with occasional counterattacks when he wasn't expecting it.

(Rin): "Kuro, you're strong point is your speed by far and your attacks aren't lacking behind it, but don't forget about your original ability before you got a humanoid form. You're able to partially transform into your nekomata form so that means your size manipulation skill should still work!"

As soon as I said that, Kuro carried a thoughtful look before charging at me just like before. When I was about to dodge, at the very last second, Kuro's claws suddenly enlarged to double their size, making it almost impossible to escape with only a little scratch on my arm. The exchange happened very quickly but it seems Kuro's gained some insights. Good.

(Rin): "Good job Kuro! You should've been able to do this earlier though. Your training is to use your size alteration skill along with your Nekomata skill and hold that transformation for 10 minutes. Then we'll slowly increase the difficulty bit by bit with some spars. We'll focus on techniques on another training camp."

I decided to give him a somewhat easy task to do for the time being. Once he finishes with that task I'll have him spar while maintaining that form since it must use a decent amount of energy to sustain it. Adding meditation with that would help out too.

(Midori): "Nice one, big bro. Now's my turn!"

Midori quickly congratulates Kuro before trying to get his turn soon. This little guy is probably the most energetic of the three, as well as the smartest even though he doesn't look it. I guess he got that one from me, huh.

(Kuro): "No fair, I still wanted to continue sparring!"

Kuro complains to Midori as they both were about to argue on who's gonna fight me. They were face-to-face with a short distance between them. Looks like they're gonna fight it out. I smiled wryly at the sudden situation before stepping in to stop it from escalating.

(Rin): "Okay, calm down kids.

I give the two of them head pats to calm them down before looking at Kuro. I feel a little bad for picking one over the other, but I'm not done yet.

(Rin): "We'll continue sparring for a little more. I'm sure you have another ability as well."

(Kuro): "Awesome!"

Kuro jumps up and down in victory of continuing to spar while Midori pouts while looking down in disappointment.

(Midori): "Awww, I wanted to spar."

I felt a little bad for Midori, but I need to show some discipline to my kids. Well, I say that but I gave Akane a pleading look to help me out, in which she quickly understood my meaning.

(Akane): "Now, now, Midori. Don't make things difficult for your father. You need to learn to be patient. You can spar with me in the meantime, just for today though."

Akane hugs Midori from behind before patting his head. The scene looked like a mother/sister looking after their younger family member. I never would've thought I'd see this side to Akane but it gives a sort of surreal feel.

(Midori): "Okay!"

Midori quickly turns around to face Akane before giving her a huge hug. I wonder if I raised Midori to become a battle maniac like Akane? Oh well, if that's his choice then so be it. As long as he doesn't become reckless in process, I'm happy.

(Kuro): "Let's continue our spar!"

(Rin): "Aight."

We continued our little spar with Kuro on offence with me on defence. I won't lie when I say I started using this to train my reflexes a little. Kuro's main fighting style is using unpredictable moves whilst using his speed to disorientate his enemies. Mines more about analysing the others fighting style before dismantling it to my advantage.

(Naneko): "Damn that little guy sure is quick on his toes."

(Kage): "Kuro-nii is faster than you think he is. He is a nightmare when it comes to tag or hide 'n' seek."

I listened to the conversation in the audience before dodging another attack from Kuro. He turned his body mid-air before pushing himself off of the air, performing a double jump movement. The movement caught me off guard a little as his attack ripped the front of my uniform, but I was too excited to care.

(Rin): "And let's stop there. Good job, you've gotten stronger in the last few weeks. Now, in correlation to your other training, I want you to start training that double jump technique of yours. Start with making it into triple jumps before slowly increasing the number of jumps you can do."

(Kuro): "Thanks father, I'll do my best!"

I give Kuro one last head pat before turning around to the other spar happening behind us. Akane and Midori are still battling it out with a crazy smile on their face as they attack each other with their respected fighting style.

Yep, Midori has taken after Akane.

(Akane): "Come on, you can do better than that!"

Akane, who's still wielding her twin kodachi's, does a backflip to dodge a punch from Midori that destroys the floor below as creaks form. Shock waves formed from that exchange as the two get more daring in their attacks.

(Akane): "Black Blood Serpents!"

Akane yells before slitting her wrists as a ridiculous amount of black blood pours out of her wound before sealing up and creating two black snakes. The snakes gave off a menacing aura as they stood twice as tall as Akane, almost like she's their Queen before they started locking on to Midori.

Reminds me of when we first found out about each other's powers and went at it with each other.

(Midori): "Wow, they look strong."

Midori shows a fearless smile as he charges towards the snakes. He didn't blink for a second as he grabbed them with his enlarged Goblin hands before ripping then off to shreds. I gotta say seeing a child rip a monster four times his size with a smile on his face and covered in black blood is quite a powerful scene.

(Akane): "Awesome! Take this one as well!"

Akane says that with a fearless smile herself as she charges at Midori, swinging around her Kodachi's that have their blades suddenly lengthened to regular Tachi's. Midori, similar to Akane, charges up to her with his arms shining in a metallic hue, ready to take her attacks head-on.

(Rin): "Nice spar you two."

Seeing as this was becoming more than just a spar, I jumped in between the two of them, catching both of their forearms to force them to stop. Dust clouds form, showing how powerful those attacks were.

(Midori): "You crazy, father?! You could've been injured by those attacks!"

Midori was the first one to react as he started reprimanding me for buŧŧing in. I stick my tongue out a little whilst smiling which further annoys the little kid of mine. Though I have to admit, that was a little reckless of me. Midori's armoured skin packs a punch.

(Akane): "As strong as always."

Akane says as she reverts her tachi's back into blood and stores them into her body before walking back to Naneko and Kage. That's got to be unhygienic unless her body immediately gets rid of the dirt or whatever that's carried in her blood.

(Rin): "You did great Midori, you even noticed that your abilities are similar to Kuro and already applied them to the spar. Though it's a little dangerous using new skills in a serious battle, it's still better than nothing so nice one."

I began patting the young boy as I remember our first time meeting. Although he only made a contract with me out of fear, he still managed to grow up faster than I expected a Goblin too. I'm proud to call this bundle of energy my son.

(Midori): "Yes Dad!"

(Rin): "Alright, you and Kuro are gonna be put in the same training scheme to train your partial transformations as much as possible. Other than that, I want you to practise that metal skin ability of yours. Get it to a level where you won't be harmed by any weapons, that's the ultimate aim you should go for or even beyond that."

I gave him a cheery smile as I continued messing up his hair till I was satisfied. The kids are growing stronger but there's still room for improvements!

(Midori): "You think that's possible?"

Midori says that with doubts, probably due to his race and whether or not he's able to follow up on what I said. I've noticed he's been looking at Kuro as more than just a brother, but a goal to overcome. He's even been reading my textbooks and been answering those questions in his free time. I think his race complex got a little worse after meeting Kage, who has the potential of controlling an entire element.

Well, as long as it doesn't get violent, I'll support their little rivalry.

(Rin): "Why wouldn't it? Give it a shot and you'll get better. Just don't overdo it in training."

I said that on one knee to give him a little hug. Midori's face went from having doubts to a face full of energy once again.

(Midori): "I'll do my best!"

Midori says that with his usual grin as I gave him a head pat for his confidence boost, before running to Kuro as they talk about their training.

(Rin): "The next one is Kage."

I decided to skip Akane and go to Kage for the time being to complete the trio set. Also because her training won't be difficult to explain.

(Kage): "What should I do, Tou-san?"

Kage asks me in expectation as I give her my insight.

(Rin): "For now I want you to focus on controlling your Demon Aura. Right now your Aura is all over the place which makes you completely agitated to everything that happens. Learn to control that to your will and then you'll be able to get some ideas for what your other abilities are."

I'm hoping for her to get shadow manipulation as her primary ability. Having a child be able to use the shadows as an element would be powerful for surprise attacks and spying around. I might be able to sneak around in the Grigory and access their classified files about the emperors or whatever secrets they have too.

(Kage): "I will do my best to meet your expectations, Tou-san."

(Rin): "As long as you don't overwork yourself. I'll teach you how to control your aura soon."

I kept my plans to the back of my head as I gave the mȧturė child of mine a big head pat. I don't plan to make her a slave or anything for my group, but having someone with an ability like that is awesome enough.

(Kage): "Thank you, Tou-san."

Kage gave me a smile suitable for a child her age before joining her two brothers for their discussion. I'm glad the three of them are getting closer to each other. I smiled at the 3 of them before looking at Akane, who also has a smile on her face looking at the trio.

(Rin): "Now onto you Akane, your ability is similar to mine where it's kinda like an element. I'm able to make weapons out of my flames but you can already tell that's not what they were originally able to do. I want you to find other uses with your blood. Oh, and a heads up, I've learned from my abilities that the more details I put on the weapons or whatever, the more durable and stronger they become. Try using a multitude of different weapons before specialising on a single weapon. At least try getting a basic mastery of each weapon in case of emergencies"

I list out the various goals I have in mind for Akane as she writes them all out on the dirt before looking at me.

(Akane): "Sounds like a challenge. I'll do my best!"

After noting everything down, Akane briefly reviews her notes before displaying a grin to the challenges I gave her. Good, I like that kind of attitude.

(Rin): "Oh, and whilst you're all doing your training we'll be doing frequent spars to get our battle instincts on par with each other."

Since everyone's fighting styles are different, we'd get a better understanding of how to adapt to new abilities and stuff to a certain extent. Though we still lack real battle experience so I need to deal with that somehow.

(Akane): "I can't wait for our rematch. I won't let you win this time."

Akane says that cooly with a wink before heading towards the trio. Has that become the de-briefing zone now? Everyones talking about how they'd train and spar against each other.

(Naneko): "And what about me?"

And finally, the one who I have no clue on how to train yet has arrived.

(Rin): "Yep, last but not least we have the Neko in black. We'll be having a spar so I can get a better understanding of your skills."

Everything about Naneko is a mystery to me. I want to slowly understand her, her powers and her past. I want to know why she has a sudden personality change whenever I mention anything about demons.

(Naneko): "Oh? Can't I join Kuro's regimen?"

Naneko asks with a confused look as she looks at the other group. She seemed to want to avoid a fight if possible. I wonder why?

(Rin): "Oh? You can manipulate your size?"

I just realised I probably shouldn't have said that, huh. Naneko gives me a little glare before speaking again in an annoyed tone. I'm dumb.

(Naneko): "No, but I'm able to partially transform so having a fellow cat-sidhe in training should prove to be beneficial."

Naneko gives me a logical point, which makes sense, but something feels off about it. I feel like she's trying to avoid fighting with me. I have a few ideas on why that might be the case but I want to confirm them now rather than dealing with it much later.

(Rin): "You make a fair point but I'd still like to know where you are in terms of combat. If you would do me the honours that is."

I say the beginning seriously before saying the end jokingly as well as a bow. Definitely something fishy about her reasoning, and that's not because she's a cat.

(Naneko): "....Fine."

Naneko was very reluctant to agree huh. She has her secrets but I'm not humble enough to not pry into them. After all, I have to be able to trust them with my backs. Naneko and I walk about 10 meters away from each other before getting into position. I readied my bokken before getting into a stance.

(Naneko): "You're not going to use your flames?"

I was taken aback by the sudden question as I gave her a funny look. Why'd I use my flames when I'm just testing your basic skills?

(Rin): "I'm only testing what you're able to do. I'm not looking down on you but I mainly use my flames on someone with the intention to fight to the death."

I'd rather not use my flames when sparring. The thought of accidentally burning someone to nothing scares me to no extent.

(Naneko): "Like that makes it any easier for me…"

Naneko says that quietly which I almost couldn't pick up even with my hearing. I was about to ask what she meant by that but I had to turn my body to the right to dodge a claw to the face. I immediately retaliated to the surprise attack by spinning my whole body around to hit her with my katana, but Naneko bent her back to avoid it just bȧrėly.

Our exchange continued like that as I analysed her skills. Her instincts and reaction speed are amazing. She's able to dodge my attacks with minimum energy, always avoiding them with a small distance between her and the Katana. Even the strength of her claws surprised me as she nearly made me let go of the bokken a few times.

We continued our spar as my bad feeling got worse. Naneko's attacks went from nimble and graceful to aggressive and animalistic in a span of a few attacks. I separated the distance between us to get a better understanding of why that happened and then I noticed it.

(Rin): "!!!"

Her usual claws had only her hand transformed, but when I looked closer at them, I noticed luscious black fur growing from her wrist to her elbows. It wasn't only her arms that changed, the pupils of her golden eyes turned to emerald green slits as she carried a smug look on her face.

(Naneko): "Aaaaagggh!"

Naneko shouts out loud as her aura starts changing, with black miasma with golden trails being released from her body. Fuck, her inner demon possessed her!

(Naneko): "Take this, you bastard!"

Naneko pounces on me as I bȧrėly dodged her attack with just a scratch on my face. I take a step backwards as I ȧssess the shitty situation. Naneko's entire body is covered in black fur as I witnessed her morph into a giant shadow-like cat.

The cat gave off the impression of despair and other negative emotions as the aura it released feels sickly to the mind.

(Naneko): "Aaaaagh!!!"

Naneko screams out before knocking me over to the floor. I grunted a little before using my bokken to block her fangs from reaching me. My brain had a little pause from seeing the transformation but I quickly snapped out of it before kicking her off of me.

We made eye contact again, her eyes show fear, worry, anger and other negative emotions mixed in between. Just what the hell happened in her past…? I question this as Naneko runs away from us.

(Akane): "Nano…!"

Akane, who was with the kids, slowly walked towards Naneko with a lost look on her face. As if she's looking at the ghost that haunted her in the past.

(Rin): "Don't worry, I'll get her back soon. I promise."

I quickly tried comforting Akane before dealing with Naneko. Having her make rash decisions because of her emotions might cause more harm than good.

But when I tried reaching her to calm her down, she started running towards Naneko at high speeds with tears in her eyes.

(Rin): "Wait Akane!"

Fuck, she went tunnel vision and can't hear me anymore.

(Rin): "Dammit we need to catch her. It's too danger-"

I turned to my kids to inform them of their orders, but I stopped when I saw Kuro performing a dogeza with his face laying on the floor and his body shaking in fear.

(Rin): "Wait Kuro, what's up buddy?!"

I quickly picked up Kuro who jolted up in shock before looking at me in surprise and relief. I gave him a little hug and waited for his body to stop shaking before he spoke.

(Kuro): "I… I can't move. My body is on edge… For some reason my body submitted to her on its own… and I sensed anger coming from Neko kaa-san"

The young boy looks like he's seen his life flash before him. Must be an effect of Naneko's transformation. Great…!

(Rin): "Midori, Kage, look after your brother while I get back Naneko and Akane. Don't worry, she'll be fine. I'll make sure to bring her back soon."

I looked at the other 2 to make sure if they were affected like Kuro. Other than them feeling worried, they didn't show an extreme reaction like Kuro had. I thought Kage would have something since Naneko's current form looked like some kind of shadow entity, but I guess I'm wrong.

(Kage): "Kaa-san… Kaa-sama will be alright, right?"

(Midori): "They'll be okay, right?"

The kids look at me with worry in their eyes for both the girls. I give them both hugs and smile at them worrying for the two girls. Guess their feelings for a family are genuine. I'll protect them.

(Rin): "They'll be fine. I'll get them back, so look after your big brother for me in the meantime."

I entrusted the paralysed Kuro to Midori and Kage before going after Akane and Naneko. First Yanno and now Naneko… I can't be too relaxed when dealing with half-demons, huh. I guess Akane should be next. When I got to where they were, I saw Akane fighting Naneko as tears fell from her eyes.

(Akane): "Nano! Please wake up!"

Akane desperately tries convincing Naneko to wake up to no avail as she's about to get hit by another one of her attacks. I managed to catch Akane just before she got hit as I carried her by the waist under my arm.

(Rin): "Calm down, we need to work together. A few hits is all it takes to beat this kind of demon possession."

I say before jumping to avoid another attack from Cat Naneko. Yanno awakened his inner demon by not using his eye medication which managed his aura and ability to see demons. I guess Naneko knew fighting might cause her inner demon to react, hence why she was reluctant even though she's a decent fighter.

If that's the case, maybe each half-demon have some sort of one-time reaction catalyst to awaken their inner demon?

(Akane): "You're right… I'm sorry."

Akane looks down to the ground in reflection before getting interrupted by Naneko as I dodge another one of her attacks.

(Neko Naneko): "I hate you. I hate you!! I hate everything about you!"

Naneko says that as her voice becomes even graver. Just what happened to her to be like this…? What kind of Demon is she really?

(Rin): "Akane, you can reflect all you want later, but you think you can distract her for a little bit?"

(Akane): "I can try."

(Rin): "That's good."

Once Akane calmed down a little, I dropped her off to distract Naneko as I made some preparations. This is gonna hurt a little… for both of us.

-Akane's Pov-

As soon as Rin let go of me, I ran towards Nano with my Kodachi's as I try to reconsolidate her. Her eyes… Her appearance… It's just like that day all over again!

(Akane): "Nano! What happened in the orphanage wasn't your fault! It was my fault! You can't keep living like this!"

I shouted at her as I followed what Rin said and attacked her. I need to knock her out or distract her. When my blades made contact with her fur, they were immediately deflected as I got kicked away again.

(Naneko): "It was my fault! I hate them! All of them!"

Nano kept repeating those words like a mantra as her attacks got heavier and heavier. My clothes started to get ripped as the scars started piling up. With each scar, more black blood pours out from my body which I use to reinforce both my attacks and my skin for defence, but even then Nano still easily overpowers me.

(Akane): "Think for a fuċkɨnġ second! I was the first one to go berserk! I was the first one to kill someone! I even enjoyed it for fuċks sake! I'm the more messed up one."

I screamed louder than Naneko as I cried with each parry. I was the one who started this shit. I was the one who first killed. I did it and so did you.

Harder. I need to hit harder to free Naneko. I swung my Kodachi's as hard as I can whilst using the blood coming from my wounds to create other weapons. More. Just a little more. Get the fuċk out of my friend!

(Akane): "Guh!"

I miscalculated one of Nano's attacks as I got sent flying towards the hard soil. My blazer's ripped up and covered in dirt with bits of my skin and lingerie showing, but I had no time to worry about my appearance as Nano pounced on top of me. She pinned down both of my arms as she tried biting my head as I struggled to escape her grip. I let go of my kodatchi's to let them turn back into their liquid form before turning them into snakes to defend myself from her fangs. Her fangs easily shredded them in half but I kept transforming them back to snakes as an endless cycle of attack and defence takes place.

(Akane): "Nano! Don't fuċkɨnġ give up on me!"

I cried. I cried yet my will to save her never diminished. Think you dumbass, THINK! Save your friend already! I yelled at myself for not being able to do anything for my best friend.

(Rin): "This one took a while to prepare…"

While I was struggling in both the real world and my mental one, I heard the deep voice of Rin coming behind. I couldn't turn around to look at him while dealing with Naneko on top of me but I could feel the power coming from him.

Scary. Like the aura of death.

(Rin): "Satan's Chains!"

While I was stunned by the sudden power, black chains made of fire soon came towards Nano as she made a desperate attempt to flee against them but It didn't take long before they eventually trapped her and caught her. I was dumbfounded by the sudden turn of events and didn't react until I heard Rin's voice again.

(Rin): "You okay?"

I turned around to see the source of this new situation. Rin. But now his iris' are black with red pupils, giving him a more fitting appearance of a demon. Even the flames around him are black and his horns too. The look was sudden that I couldn't understand what happened.

(Akane): "I am, but that can't have been what you were preparing for? Just for your flames to change colour?"

I didn't understand what was happening. Everythings happening so fast that I couldn't keep up. I didn't realise it but this time I was grabbing Rins arms, even digging my nails into him.

(Rin): "Of course it wasn't, just give me a sec."

Rin puts his arm onto my shoulder before gently pushing me away. I look down realising I dug into his flesh as my hands are covered in his blood. I had a sudden urge to drink the blood as my heart started beating faster. It took me a while to subdue that urge before I looked up to see what Rin planned to do.

Weird, that's never happened before. What's happened to me?

(Rin): "Satan's Exorcism."

(Akane): "Rin!"

Rin said those words as if they were a trigger for more black flames to come out from him as they slowly engulfed Nano's beast-like body. I had the urge to hit Rin when I thought he was gonna kill her but luckily I didn't as I heard a glimpse of "Akane" coming from Nano's mouth before her body started shrinking back to normal.

(Akane): "Nano!"

I quickly ran up to Nano as I hugged her before letting her rest on my ŀȧp. I cried out rivers when I saw her peaceful face, unaware of what's happening right now. Her usually messy hair is even worse now. The same hairstyle that made people think of her as a lazy girl, sleeping peacefully as if nothing happened.

This girl has no clue how much she's worried me! I wiped to tears off my face as I give the catgirl a smile of relief.

*Thump*

I heard another loud noise as I see Rin lying on the floor behind me. My anxiety kicked in as I thought that attack Rin used must have been a deadly one for himself too, hence why he had to prepare but luckily my worries diminished a little when I saw Rin turn his body around and raised his hand in the air.

(Rin): "My heart nearly went to my throat there."

Rin looks at the 'sky' and the back of his arm as he gives off a distant look. He looked, well, lost a little. As if question if his action leads to the right path.

(Akane): "Rin…"

I felt like tearing up again. My appearance must be a mess huh. But… I'm just too relieved to care about it right now. Just thinking about what happened and my reckless actions made me want to hit myself.

I'm too weak, I need to get stronger.

(Rin): "Come one smile up a little. I won't die that easily and neither will Naneko."

Rin says that with a comforting smile as he gets up to give me and Nano a hug. It's warm.

(Akane): "Thank you, Rin…"

I returned the hug with my own as I sank my head to his shoulder. I began thinking about all the things Rin's done for me. For us. The more I recalled, the more I confirmed my feelings.

Rin, I love you…

(A/N: Alternative Titles: "Damn, things got heated real quick", "Akane confirmed her feelings. But when will she admit them?", "Beginning of the harem")