The Golden Dragon Empress - Chapter 36: Familial Relationships

Natsuki finally meets Amaterasu...

The Next Day 

After about an hour of staring at the ceiling, Natsuki finally decided to climb out of bed, walking towards the windows and watching the sun slowly rise over the city’s skyline. 

She let out a yawn, rubbing her tired eyes before stretching her arms above her head. She had slept fitfully throughout the night, leaving her feeling exhausted as her thoughts had continued to spiral. 

She hated how much this situation was bothering her, how much she wanted, loathed, and especially feared what was to come. 

Subconsciously, the Devil found herself staring at the warm shades of gold that the sunrise created, shuddering at the power she could feel coming from it, even from this distance. But it was not just the sun, all around her, Natsuki could sense countless auras awakening alongside the city, and more importantly, she could feel large amounts of power coming from different parts of the environment like the sky, the earth, rivers that she now aware of flowing through, around, and even beneath the city, the shrines scattered throughout Kyoto, and even the mountains. 

She knew from her interactions with Odin that Gods were more than capable of masking their presence, so the fact that she could feel so many in this moment when she could not yesterday, showed her that this display was intentional. 

I wonder if the others will be able to feel them too when they wake up. Natsuki thought, almost finding herself addicted to the energy, just as she was before Yasaka had helped her center herself. 

“Lux, can you-” 

“I can feel their power as well,” Lux answered before Natsuki could finish her question. “I believe this to be a show of strength on their part. They will undoubtedly wish to remind your faction of whose territory they are residing within and the consequences of having kept you hidden all this time and for turning you.” 

“What do you think they’ll ask of Maous as payment?” Natsuki asked, walking away from the window and toward the suite’s bathroom. 

“You seem sure that recompence will be demanded,” Lux said lightly. 

Natsuki scoffed. “Why wouldn’t it be asked for? If the Shinto Pantheon wanted bloodshed, they would have already attacked the Underworld and try to take me by force instead of calling for this meeting. And if they don’t ask for some kind of reparations or even a formal apology, then it would make them look weak to the other Pantheons.” 

“That is true,” Lux conceded. “And given your leaders reluctance for war and their clear violation of the social contract, the Gods of Takamagahara have them by what you kids say, ‘the metaphorical balls’.” 

Natsuki let out a startled laugh, shaking her head in disbelief. “Where did you even hear that?” 

While Natsuki could not see the dragon’s face, she knew that Lux was grinning as she spoke. “I am a very long lived and well-traveled dragon, Natsuki. And I have had the pleasure and displeasure of spending these last few months listening to yourself and your companions converse. I have come to understand that colorful idioms are a surprisingly effective means of communication.” 

Natsuki laughed again as she went to get ready for what knew would be an excruciatingly long day. 

After showering and changing into a pair of blue jeans, a black long-sleeved shirt, and a light buttercream colored jacket, she took one last look at herself in the bathroom mirror. 

Since finding out the truth about the other half of her parentage, looking at her appearance had become an increasingly strange experience as she started to wonder which of her features belonged to which parent. 

Which of my mothers-wait, would they both be my mothers? Obviously, they're both women, but one of them would’ve had to... 

Natsuki immediately stopped that line of thinking, disgusting herself as images of what her possible conception could be like flashed through her mind. 

The Devil spent the next hour and a half sprawled across the couch, absentmindedly flipping through tv channels before a sharp knock at the door echoed through the suite, and caught her attention. 

“Natsuki-chan?” Akeno called through the other side. “Breakfast is being served downstairs. Rias wanted everyone together before the meeting.” 

Natsuki sighed, turning off the television. “Give me a minute.” 

When she opened the door, Natsuki saw that the Queen was dressed in a dark violet blouse beneath a cream-colored cardigan and a long black skirt with her hair falling freely over her shoulders. 

Akeno paused the moment she saw Natsuki. “You didn't sleep much, did you?” 

“Do I look that shitty that you tell just by staring at me for a few seconds?” Natsuki sarcastically asked, closing her door as she stepped into the hallway. 

Akeno smiled playfully for a moment. “No, but you’re not as stoic and unreadable as you like to believe.” 

“I think most of Kuoh would disagree with that claim,” Natsuki said dryly. 

“Well, it's a good thing that their opinions don’t matter and that I know you better than most people do.” 

Natsuki rolled her eyes and Akeno giggled in response. 

For a moment, the two fell into a comfortable silence as they made their way down the corridor toward the elevators. 

But when Natsuki glanced at Akeno, she saw that the other Devil’s smile had fallen away, and Akeno was now staring at the ground, her expression having grown distant. 

Natsuki watched her for another few seconds before speaking. “Are you going to be alright with everything going on?” 

“Why wouldn’t I be?” 

“I remember what Nurarihyon had said about the Five Principal Clans when we first met him,” Natsuki said. “Would being in the midst of the Amatsukami be a good-” 

The older girl turned her head to look at Natsuki, an almost amused smile returning to her lips. “It’s sweet that you worry, but I doubt that the Gods would care about my presence. The pact that the five clans broke was between the Youkai and the Youkai only, they are still on good terms with our-their overlords.” 

Natsuki caught Akeno’s slip of the tongue but did not comment on it, instead focusing on the rest of what she said. “What is this pact exactly?” 

A thoughtful look appeared on Akeno’s face. “The Five Principal Clans are very conservative and are deeply suspicious and intolerant of supernatural beings and besides the Nakiri Clan, are the same with practices outside of Shintoism. But over five centuries ago, the Youkai came into possession of a special kind of ink called Tenboku, ink that was far stronger than the ones that the clans previously used for their paper talisman.” 

Natsuki frowned. “I've never heard of it.” 

“Most people haven't, especially normal humans,” Akeno replied. “Tenboku is produced using wood from trees that only grow in territories beyond this plane of existence and that is controlled by Youkai. Talismans written with the ink are significantly stronger and can remain active for far longer without losing their potency. At first, the five clans tried to replicate Tenboku by when that failed; they began negotiations with the Youkai who agreed to sell the clans Tenboku, but only under very strict conditions, such as, prohibiting the clans from attempting to cultivate or steal the trees themselves, forbidding the resale of Tenboku to third parties, and allowing Youkai to travel through their lands without fear of being attacked or killed. For nearly three hundred years, the arrangement benefited both sides, but eventually the clans decided they grew tired of depending on what they viewed to be an inferior race and launched a coordinated assault on the sacred forest where the trees were cultivated, slaughtering its guardians, seizing countless seeds and saplings, and kidnapping a few artisans who knew how to make Tenboku.” 

Natsuki could not say she was surprised to hear this, knowing how quickly those in power could justify committing atrocities when it benefited them. “And let me guess, this led to a war between the two groups that wasn’t resolved until relatively recently?” 

“The war, if you could call it that, didn’t last that long, only a few weeks before the Gods intervened and recommended that the clans and the Youkai sue for peace,” Akeno said, smiling a bit when she saw Natsuki’s eyes roll at her use of the word recommended. “Almost two centuries have passed, and things have settled and now the two sides are more neutral than before but there some grudges to be held.” 

Despite her ostracization from the rest of the Himejima Clan, Akeno grew up listening to stories about the conflict, being reminded why the Youkai were not to be trusted. 

She knew that this was mostly done to further highlight her own otherness, to remind herself and everyone else that the blood of a Fallen Angel flowed through her veins and that she would never truly belong among them no matter how faithfully she followed their traditions. 

And despite the monsters her relatives tried to make the Youkai out to be, Youkai had made Akeno feel like she was an outsider before killing her mother and trying to kill her. 

So, this is basically the supernatural equivalent of neighbors who smile at each other while secretly hoping the other's house burns down. Natsuki thought, staring at the glowing buttons of the elevator. 

“If any Youkai do try to give you any trouble today, trying to mess with you because you’re a Himejima, just tell me and I’ll set them straight. You’re dad too if he keeps acting like a cunt.” 

“You know,” Akeno said, teasingly. “I had come to get you this morning so that I could try and make you feel better, not the other way around.” 

Natsuki shrugged, the corner of her mouth lifting into a faint smile. “You looked like you needed it more than I did. Besides, I don’t think there’s anything you could say that would that would keep me from thinking of my possible death today.” 

Akeno’s smile instantly disappeared, and she turned her body fully to face Natsuki, staring at her with hurt and frustration. 

“Don't joke about that,” Akeno said quietly. 

Natsuki blinked, leaning back against the elevator wall. “I wasn't joking.” 

Akeno shook her head. “Yasaka said that-” 

“That I my death wasn’t guaranteed, but that doesn’t mean the possibility isn’t there,” Natsuki said, looking infuriatingly resigned to Akeno. “The Gods may decide that getting rid of me-” 

“Is that why you were so adamant about coming here alone? Because you’re sure that the Gods will... that they will... And you did not want us to be here to witness it?” Akeno asked. 

“Partially,” Natsuki admitted after a long pause. “But I do think that whether I live or die-” 

“Natsuki, we talked about this before, our friends and I aren’t going to let anything take you away from us, it doesn’t matter what the Amatsukami or the Maou decide.” 

Natsuki felt her hands become clammy as Akeno’s earnest and determined gaze fell upon her, hating how her heart started to race at the unwavering certainty in the older Devil's voice. 

Thankfully for her, the elevator chimed as it reached the lobby and doors slid open, allowing Natsuki to escape the conversation. 

As the two stepped out of the elevator, Natsuki did not look back at Akeno again, ignoring the feeling of Akeno’s eyes on the side of her face. 

God, what is wrong with me? Natsuki thought as her stomach began to twist itself into knots.

~X~

“Wow, what is this place?” Issei asked aloud as he and everyone else had found themselves in front of a large golden torri gate. 

Beyond the gate was an immense complex that seemed to rival a small town in size with several opulent buildings within it. From where they stood, they could see that the property was covered with Sakura trees, koi ponds, and streams so clear that every pebble at their bottoms could be seen. 

“It’s a shrine, Issei,” Natsuki said dryly, before then pointing to the ground. “And that’s grass, in case you didn’t know what that was either.” 

Issei rolled his eyes. “Ha, ha, fuck you, asshole.” 

Before anything else could be said, Rias spoke and answered Issei’s question. “This is the Yasaka Shrine. While the human world only sees the public shrine, what lies beyond this gate exists in a separate bounded space maintained jointly by the Kyoto Youkai and it serves as Yasaka-sama's official residence.” 

Yasaka had sent word to the Devils, Fallen Angels, and Norsemen that morning to come to the shrine, explaining that the conference would be held within her residence. 

The enormous golden torii gates then slowly began to swing inward and standing before the group was a young, short girl that looked no older than eight or nine with golden, blonde hair that was tied in a ponytail and matching eyes. She also had nine golden fox tails and matching ears on the top of her head. 

She was wearing a traditional miko outfit and tall geta with white tabi, the sleeves of her haori featured a giant red star-shaped pentagram, surrounded by five smaller pentagrams in between the points. 

The young fox Youkai had a mischievous grin on her face, golden eyes sweeping across the assembled delegation and her tails swishing happily behind her the moment her gaze landed on Natsuki. 

“Welcome to the Yasaka Shrine!” She announced cheerfully, placing her hands behind her back. “Okaasan said I was to greet our guests. I am Kunou, please follow me. Okaasan and the other important people are already waiting for everyone.” 

“Thank you, Kunou-san,” Rias said warmly, inclining her head toward the young fox Youkai with a practiced grace. “We are honored to be welcomed into your mother's home.” 

Sona stepped forward, adjusting her glasses. “Thank you for receiving us, Kunou-san. We are grateful for your mother's hospitality.” 

Kunou beamed at the acknowledgment; her tails fanned out behind her with barely contained excitement before she composed herself. 

Kunou turned on her heel and led the group through the torii gate, her small frame moving with confidence. 

The moment the group crossed the threshold, the atmosphere shifted, and the group reacted in varying ways to the crossing. Everyone except for Natsuki, Koneko, Azazel, Odin, and Rossweisse, reacted with awe as the scenery around them changed, showing that the property was far larger and more impressive than they were first led to believe. 

At the same time, Koneko's ears had straightened, her pupils narrowing into slits as her body was instinctively responding to the concentration of spiritual power around them. Natsuki was experiencing the same thing, shuddering as the different energies she had been feeling since she woke up felt even more concentrated, washing over her and making every nerve in her body feel as if a livewire had been brushed against them. 

Asia clasped her hands together, her eyes sparkling as she looked around. “It's... It’s so beautiful.” 

Xenovia nodded enthusiastically. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a place like this before.” 

“Ah, you brats are so easily impressed,” Odin scoffed, rubbing at his beard. “It's a nice shrine, sure, but it’s nothing compared to the palaces and cities of Asgard.” 

Kunou stared her head and glared at the God, planting her hands firmly on her hips as all nine of her tails flared behind her. 

“Hmph!” Kunou huffed. “Then Oji-san has bad taste.” 

Odin blinked. “Excuse me?” 

“Okaasan says comparing homes is rude,” Kunou continued matter-of-factly. “Besides, our shrine is prettier than any of your palaces.” 

Rossweisse quietly pinched the bridge of her nose. “Kunou-sama, please forgive Lord Odin. He enjoys provoking people far more than is healthy.” 

Odin glared at his Valkyrie. “Don’t apologize on my behalf, this is why you'll always be the Valkyrie who never had a boyfriend; you're too stiff and too serious, no man wants a woman who lectures him every five minutes.” 

To the surprise of most, Rossweisse’s eyes started to fill with tears, her shoulders shaking as she struggled to maintain her composure. 

Meguri leaned close to Hanakai, whispering to her and the other members of their Peerage. “Is she going to-” 

“L-Lord Odin! Must you bring that up every single time?!” Rossweisse exclaimed, her voice cracking and her lips quivering. 

“Of course I do,” Odin replied without remorse. “You're nineteen and still haven't found a husband. Frankly, it's impressive.” 

“Th-That isn't something to be impressed by!” 

“I disagree. It’s very impressive that not even the lowest of men wants anything to do with you.” 

Azazel burst into laughter at the scene. “Hahaha! Old man, you're unbelievable! She's actually tearing up!” 

Rossweisse rounded on the Fallen Angel. “Governor General Azazel, you are not helping!” 

Is this her real personality? Or is the mention of being single just a trigger for her? Issei thought. 

Kunou ignored them, deciding to resume leading the group along before Rossweisse could truly start crying. “This way, everyone!” 

Kunou led them along a stone path that was curved between the Sakura trees, the petals drifting down occasionally in the still air. The koi ponds they passed were large enough to be called small lakes, the fish moving slowly through water. 

“Okaasan says that the koi are over three hundred years old,” Kunou announced, deciding that commentary was within her duties as escort. She pointed at a particularly large orange and white fish near the surface. “That one is called Daikichi. He always pretends he's starving even though Okaasan says he's the fattest koi in the pond.” 

Asia knelt beside the edge of the pond, smiling as Daikichi lazily swam toward her. “He's beautiful.” 

“He knows it,” Kunou replied with complete seriousness before continuing to lead the group to the main hall. 

Natsuki noticed that during the walk, the fox Youkai kept looking back at her, quickly turning away whenever their eyes would meet. 

“Is something wrong?” Natsuki eventually asked. 

Kunou flinched when Natsuki. “You're a demigod!” 

Natsuki blinked. “I guess I am. Is that why you were staring at me?” 

Kunou’s ears fell forward, pressing themselves against the top of her head. “Sorry, Natsuki-sama, it’s just I’ve never met a demigod before or someone who smells so much like sunlight!” 

Everyone looked toward Natsuki, amused by the girl’s confusion and Kunou’s clear awe of the Devil. 

Natsuki frowned. “...I smell like sunlight?” 

Kunou nodded enthusiastically. “Uh-huh! It's warm and shiny! Kind of like when Okaasan takes me to watch Amaterasu-sama's blessings during the summer festivals!” 

Is it possible to smell like sunlight? I guess it’s because of Amaterasu, but still, that’s pretty fucking weird. Natsuki thought. 

Kunou then abandoned telling the group about the shrine as she went on to ask Natsuki a litany of questions. 

Natsuki tried to answer them to the best of her ability, unaware of the soft and loving way Akeno was staring at her. 

Most people who only knew of Natsuki from her reputation would be surprised to see how well she got naturally she got along with children. She answered every one of Kunou's questions with the same dry honesty she always used, never talking down to the young Youkai despite the barrage of increasingly bizarre inquiries. 

When Akeno looked away for a moment, she saw that Rias was giving her an amused, knowing smile. 

Akeno's cheeks immediately became warm. “Don't.” 

Rias’ smile grew wider. “I'm not saying anything.” 

“You don't have to, I can see it on your face,” Akeno muttered. 

Rias laughed, choosing not to push the matter any further. 

They were then led past two smaller buildings and through two inner gates before the main hall came into view, and even Natsuki, who had been deliberately keeping her reactions measured, felt her breath catch slightly at the sight of it. 

The main hall was enormous, built in the traditional style with a layered roof that curved upward at its edges against the sky, its dark timber a weathered grey brown color. Paper lanterns hung in long rows from the eaves, unlit in the daylight, and the steps leading up to the entrance were flanked by stone foxes. 

Several Youkai stood positioned around the entrance in formal dress, watching the approaching group with expressions that ranged from carefully neutral to openly assessing. A few of their gazes moved to Natsuki and stayed there, and she met each one until they looked elsewhere. 

Yasaka and Nurarihyon stood at the entrance to the hall, the contrast between them as pronounced as ever.  

Yasaka smiled, looking completely unsurprised by her daughter's behavior as the girl was still talking to Natsuki, unaware that they had finally reached the main hall. 

“Kunou,” Yasaka said softly. “Don’t you have something to do?” 

“Ah, Right!” Kunou straightened her back as she looked at their guests. “This is the shrine’s main hall. Please remember to be respectful because many important people are here and fighting will not be tolerated under any circumstances.” 

“Good,” Yasaka smiled. 

“You actually came,” Nurarihyon said, looking at Natsuki with something between approval and amusement. “Finally realized that you can’t run away with your tale between your legs, huh?” 

Natsuki rolled her eyes and said nothing, which Nurarihyon seemed to find equally entertaining judging by the way his grin widened. 

“The fact that she's here at all should be more than sufficient, Nurarihyon, so leave her be,” Yasaka said with false pleasantness. 

The old Youkai shrugged, utterly unbothered before turning his attention to Yasaka’s daughter. “You enjoying yourself, Miss Princess?”  

Nurarihyon ruffled Kunou’s hair and Kunou pouted, batting his hand away with both of hers. 

“Nurarihyon-sama!” She complained, trying to smooth her now messy hair back into place. “You’ll ruin it!” 

The old Youkai laughed loudly. “That’s half the fun.” 

Kunou puffed out her cheeks before hurrying over to stand beside Yasaka, who gently fixed a few loose strands of her daughter’s hair. 

“There,” Yasaka said warmly. “Much better.” 

Kunou smiled at her mother, leaning closer to her. 

Yasaka stepped forward, directing her attention to the group as a whole. “Thank you all for coming promptly. I know that this morning has already demanded a great deal from everyone.” Her gaze moved briefly to Natsuki before returning to the wider assembly. “The Gods of Takamagahara are already inside and waiting. I will ask that everyone conduct themselves with appropriate respect. do not reach for your Sacred Gears, your Demonic Power, or any ability you possess. Any display of power inside that hall, however involuntary it may seem, will be read as a provocation and dealt with accordingly.” 

The last part was directed at Odin, who rolled his eyes when he saw Azazel smirking at him and Yasaka staring at him blankly. 

“Are we the last to arrive?" Rias asked. 

“The Maou Sirzechs and Leviathan arrived at first light,” Yasaka said. “While Michael-sama arrived shortly after on behalf of Heaven. Lord Odin, Governor General Azazel, and the rest of you were the final delegation we were awaiting.” 

“So, everyone’s already inside?” Issei asked, suddenly sounding much less enthusiastic than he had moments before. 

“They are,” Yasaka confirmed. “The conference cannot begin until every invited representative is present.” 

The doors to the main hall swung open, pulled from inside by two Youkai in formal dress, and the light that spilled out from between them was warmer and skinned brighter than the morning light outside. 

Natsuki felt as if she was drowning as she felt more of the magical power that had been emanating from the building. 

She forced herself to take a deep breath, looking around when she felt eyes watching her, but seeing no one presently staring at her. 

Natsuki could tell that whoever was watching her wanted her to be aware of their presence,  

“Natsuki-sama?” Yasaka asked quietly. 

Natsuki tore her gaze away from the entrance and nodded once. “I’m fine.” 

Yasaka started at her for a moment before stepping aside and gestured toward the open doorway. 

“Then let us not keep them waiting.”

~X~

“This place just keeps getting more impressive,” Saji said, craning his neck as he looked around the hallway they had just entered. 

The interior of the main hall was far larger than the shrine’s exterior should have allowed. Massive cedar pillars rose toward a ceiling painted with scenes depicting the birth of the Japanese islands, the creation of the heavens, and countless stories from Shinto mythology. Rows of enormous paper lanterns floated high overhead, bathing the area in a warm golden light. And the polished wooden floor reflected nearly everything in the hallway. 

“Why, thank you, it is always pleasant to hear visitors appreciate one’s home,” Yasaka said proudly. 

Kunou copied her mother’s mannerisms, walking with the same proud gait that she did. 

As everyone else took in the hall, Natsuki could still feel herself being watched, the sensation feeling like ants crawling across the back of her neck. 

“Is something wrong?” Akeno asked quietly, falling into step beside her, having noticed the slight change in the other Devil’s demeanor. 

Natsuki hesitated before answering. "It’s nothing, I just-” 

“Haha, you know, it’s quite rude to keep a room filled with deities waiting. One would think that none of you understand the importance of this day.” 

Everyone turned at the sound of the deep, amused voice, instinctively searching for its source.  

Standing atop one of the massive cedar beams overlooking the corridor was a man who looked to be somewhere in his early thirties, broad-shouldered and powerfully built, with sun-bronzed skin and long dark hair tied loosely behind his head. A white haori embroidered with flowing clouds hung open over a dark kimono, and a gourd rested casually against one shoulder. He grinned down at them brightly, showing off his sharp canine teeth as he did, looking extremely confident and proud. 

Natsuki could instantly tell that the being before them was not mortal, feeling the aura that wafted from his body, vast and untamable. 

Yasaka, Kunou, and Nurarihyon immediately fell into very deep and respectful bows at the sight of the God. 

Yasaka spoke on everyone’s behalf, still keeping her head lowered. “Please Forgive us, K-” 

“No need to be so nervous,” The God said with a broad grin, slinging the gourd onto his shoulder. “I am not one of my uncles or my third brother, I will not take offense to imaginary slights. And if nothing else, I was simply making a joke, though perhaps it was one made in poor taste.” 

Yasaka slowly straightened her back. “You are too generous.” 

“I was just so excited to meet the little demigod, I couldn’t help but rush out here once I felt her presence,” The Shinto God looked away from the Youkai and his eyes immediately found Natsuki’s. “I am-” 

“You’re Kumanokusubi,” Natsuki muttered, frowning as she did not know how she could have known his name, but feeling that the knowledge was imbedded within her very soul. “The God of the Mountainous Wilderness.”  

The God smiled sharply when Natsuki said his name, the corners of his amber eyes crinkling with delight. “You certainly are one of our own. And if you know both my name and domain, then you must know how we are related, don’t you? Surely the mortals of this realm teach their young that much in their institutions.” 

Issei blinked several times before looking between Natsuki and the smiling deity. “How are you two related?” 

Kumanokusubi laughed heartily, the sound echoing through the vast corridor. 

Rias sighed, inwardly admonishing herself for once again not making sure that her Pawn knew the basics of Shinto mythology. “Ise, Kumanokusubi-sama is one of Amaterasu’s five sons. That would make him one of Natsuki’s half-brothers.” 

Issei’s eyes widened. “Seriously?” 

He looked at Natsuki and Kumanokusubi again but struggled to see any kind of resemblance between the two. Besides the fact that they were both tall, had a similar sharpness in their facial features, and possessed dark hair, there was nothing else that Issei could see anything that they shared. 

Kumanokusubi laughed again, clearly delighted by the exchange. “Hahaha! I like this one! He just says the first thing that comes to his mind!” 

Odin snorted. “That's one way of describing the brat.” 

The mountain god hopped down from the beam and despite falling from such a height, he landed without making so much as a sound.  

He walked directly toward Natsuki, stopping about a meter away as he continued to study her openly. 

“You only really have our mother's eyes,” Kumanokusubi said, tilting his head slightly. "Everything else must be from your other parent.” 

It was not the first time that Natsuki had heard this, and she ignored the discomfort that came both with the comparison and Kumanokusubi’s continued examination of her. 

“Are you going to keep staring at me or are you going to let us proceed?” Natsuki asked flatly. 

“Natsuki!” Rias hissed, but Kumanokusubi’s smile only grew in the face of Natsuki’s disrespect. 

Faster than she could see him move, Kumanokusubi placed his arm around Natsuki’s shoulders, squeezing them with enough force to make her stumble half a step toward him. 

“Excellent!” he declared with a booming laugh. “With that attitude, I’m sure you'll fit right in! Well, if we decide to keep you instead of calling for your extermination.” 

The hall fell into a tense silence at the God’s words, the casualness of his statement confirming what most of the younger Devils had feared and did not want to believe was true. 

Natsuki's eye twitched, both at the God’s touch and the reaction he had just caused within her friends. “Get off me.” 

The God smiled and ignored her words, pulling Natsuki along like they were old friends. “Come, come! We shouldn’t keep mother and the others waiting any longer.” 

Natsuki pried his arm off her shoulders with visible annoyance but followed Kumanokusubi as he began to lead the group through the main hall. 

It did not take long for them to reach a set of doors that stretched all the way to the ceiling, each carved golden accents that depicted the sun rising over the Japanese archipelago. 

In front of the door stood two shrine maidens who bowed deeply at their approach, opening them without a word. 

Beyond the doorway lay a vast chamber with massive wooden pillars, a skylight that allowed streams of sunlight to pour through the ceiling and bathe the polished floor in warm golden light. A shallow channel of crystal-clear water flowed through the center of the room before disappearing beneath the raised platform at its far end. 

On either side of the room, sat two long tables, each facing one another.  

Sirzechs sat at the center of the table on the left side of the chamber, with Serafall and Michael sitting on either side of him. The redhead’s face was expressionless as he looked ahead, not turning when the chamber doors had opened while Serafall’s expression was less bubbly and brighter than usual.  

Irina stood behind Michael’s seat, and next to several stern-faced Angels that her leader had traveled with. Since their arrival, no one had spoken, only giving each other tense and meaningful glares, leaving the atmosphere in the conference room to meander into an uneasy silence. 

“Wow, this seems like a very festive and happy group here today,” Azazel muttered under his breath, not caring that everyone had heard him nor did he care for the glares that were sent his way. 

Azazel himself broke from the group and took the seat on Michael’s right side, leaning back in it and placing his feet on the table. Baraqiel followed the Governor General without comment, taking his place behind him as his escort while Odin wandered over at his own seat next to Serafall, dropping heavily into it as Rossweisse quietly moved to stand behind Odin's chair. 

“What do you think you are doing, Kumanokusubi?” A rough voice demanded from the right side of the room. 

On the right, the Gods unlike the leaders of the Christiaan and Norse Pantheons, sat in raised thrones carved from polished white stone on top of a dais, allowing them to look down at everyone else. Their table was far longer than the one the Maous, Azazel, and Odin were sitting at due to the sheer number of Gods that were present. 

At the center of the elevated dais sat a woman whose presence eclipsed every other being in the room so completely that Natsuki instinctively looked toward her first. 

She was dressed in flowing white and gold robes that shimmered like sunlight, her long black hair cascaded over her shoulders like a river of silk, her pale skin was almost luminous beneath the beams of natural light pouring through the skylight, while a delicate golden crown resembling the rays of the sun rested upon her brow, helping to frame her other-worldly beauty and delicate features of her face. 

But the thing that drew Natsuki’s attention the most were the woman’s eyes, seeing that they were the same shade of burgundy red as her own. 

That’s… That’s her… Natsuki thought to herself, forgetting how to breathe for a moment. 

At the same time, Amaterasu simply stared blankly at Natsuki, not giving away any indication of what she could be thinking. 

“Well, are you going to explain yourself, Kumanokusubi?” The God sitting on Amaterasu’s left side asked again. 

The God was a handsome, wild-looking man with dark purple eyes, large unkept black hair and a similarly long beard. He was dressed in a simple loose-fitting blue kimono with black armor placed on top of it.  

In front of the God was a long, double-edged blade measuring close to a meter long in length, a weapon that he refused to let go of, keeping on hand on the sword’s hilt. 

Totsuka-no-Tsurugi. Susanoo’s personal ten-hand-span long sword. Natsuki thought, once again, having knowledge about things that she should not be aware of. 

Kumanokusubi laughed loudly. “I just couldn’t wait to see my new little sister, uncle. Apologies.” 

Susanoo’s eyes narrowed. “Now is not the time for your antics, you should know better than to choose now of all times to indulge your curiosity.” 

“Let us not waste time trying to make sense of our nephew’s foolishness, brother,” The God sitting to Amaterasu’s right said calmly. 

Unlike Susanoo, whose very presence carried the feeling of a storm, this deity radiated an eerie stillness and darkness.  

His hair was a bright silver color that fell neatly to the middle of his back; his skin was paler than Amaterasu’s, making him look as if he was a living ghost along with the gauntness of his face, and his eyes were completely black, not allowing his pupils to be seen. He wore layered robes of black, silver, and deep indigo embroidered with crescent moons and stars that shimmered faintly whenever they caught the light.  

“Our guests have traveled a considerable distance,” Tsukuyomi continued. “Let us not keep them waiting any longer to hear our judgement.” 

Susanoo clicked his teeth together. “Do not act as if I require a lecture on courtesy from you of all the Kami, Tsukuyomi, for you are not much better. Save your false modesty for someone of weaker mind.” 

“Brothers,” Amaterasu said before Tsukuyomi could respond, and despite speaking softly, her voice traveled through the room, carrying an authority that silenced the room. 

Susanoo turned to look away from their brother while Tsukuyomi merely inclined his head in response. 

The Sun Goddess had been looking at her youngest brother when she had spoken, making no move to even glance in Tsukuyomi’s direction. After a few moments she looked away from Susanoo and towards the youngest of her five sons. 

“Take your seat.” 

“...Y-Yes, Mother.” The mountain god scratched the back of his head sheepishly; his earlier bravado having vanished completely as he walked toward the dais.  

A few of the assembled Kami smirked at his expense, while Susanoo let out a satisfied grunt at the reprimand. 

Kumanokusubi sat on the right side of the table, walking past four other Kami who were each looking at him with varying expressions. 

The God next to Tsukuyomi, who was wearing an elaborate dark red tunic that match the colors of his eye with long, silkily, straight black hair, a mustache, and a goatee that framed a sharp jawline, highlighting his cheekbones. He glared at Kumanokusubi as he walked past, thoroughly unimpressed with his actions. 

The second God looked the most like Amaterasu, possessing the same dark hair, red eyes, intense beauty, and pale skin, the only difference between them being that his features were noticeably sharper and more masculine, and his white ceremonial robes were embroidered with stalks of ripened rice. 

His expression remained composed, only glancing at Kumanokusubi for a few seconds before staring his newly revealed demigod sister with curiosity. 

The third God physically looked the youngest of the four, having the face and body of a teenage boy. His light brown hair was styled into a mizura, he wore robes of white and sky blue, the sleeves hanging over his hands, and his bright blue eyes crinkled at the edges as he smirked at Kumanokusubi, enjoying his discomfort. 

The fourth God had the same amber eyes as Kumanokusubi, but where his brother carried himself with a wild openness, this God demeanor was less intense, smiling at him with exasperation and fondness, moving a gold coin between his fingers. His dark hair was pulled back neatly, and his robes were a deep forest green embroidered with silver thread in patterns that resembled diverting rivers. 

Ame-no-oshihomimi, Ame-no-hohi, Amatsuhikone, and Ikutsuhikone. 

Natsuki followed the rest of her Peerage and the Sitri Peerage to the left side of the room, ignoring how almost every present was blatantly staring at her. 

As she settled against the wall behind the table, Natsuki took note of the other Gods in front of her, instantly able to recognize all of them and their myths just as she had been able to with her half-brothers, uncles, and mother. 

“Now that all delegations are present,” Amaterasu said.  “We may begin this... meeting.” 

Susanoo let out a scoff under his breath before leaning back against his throne, one hand still resting atop the hilt of the Totsuka-no-Tsurugi. 

“There a several matters that we must discuss this day, beginning with the theft of my demigod daughter, Sukehiro Natsuki,” Amaterasu continued, ignoring her brother’s interruption. 

Natsuki fought the urge to flinch when the Goddess said her name, refusing to lower her eyes as she looked at her. But Amaterasu's gaze was kept on Sirzechs, her face expressionless as she waited for a response. 

Sirzechs folded his hands atop the table. “Allow me to begin by saying that the actions taken by myself, and no one else were not meant to offend or undermine the sovereignty of Takamagahara.” 

Susanoo's grip on his sword tightened. “You say this after you and your ilk have been caught within your lies?” 

Susanoo’s words galvanized many of the other assembled Kami. Several of them murmured among themselves, their expressions ranging from open outrage to quiet disdain, looking at Sirzechs with barely concealed contempt. 

But they soon quieted themselves when Amaterasu slowly lifted her hand, the simple gestureforcing the chmaber into silence once again. 

“You say that, but I find it quite peculiar that Sukehiro Natsuki is your sister’s servant, Maou Lucifer. And not only is she your sister’s servants, but my sources have told me that she became your sister’s servant shortly before the Gremory Peerage fought a Rating Game against one Riser Phenex, in a match to decide your sister’s engagement to him,” Amaterasu said evenly. “Tell me, Maou Lucifer, was this merely an extraordinary coincidence?” 

Every eye in the chamber shifted toward Sirzechs, and even Azazel's perpetual smirk faded slightly.  

Sirzechs, however, remained composed. “No, I cannot say that. And while I can admit that I did use Natsuki-chan to save Rias from her betrothal to Riser, the reason I did not reveal her existence when I discovered her five years ago was because I feared for the fate of such an innocent being.” 

Rias’ gaze fell onto the back of her brother’s head, staring at his head, not having expected him to say this. 

Sirzechs had told her before that he did care for Natsuki and Issei, even if he did see no issue using them to protect her. She found herself wondering whether those words would be enough in this moment and how true they were. 

Tsukuyomi rested his chin upon his hand as he leaned forward, smiling darkly at Sirzechs, letting out a humorless laugh. “You expect us to believe that a Devil decided to act for the benefit of another? You dare come here and insult our intelligence with these lies of yours?” 

“Ever since the Pact of Equilibrium was created, Gods throughout the realms have taken little issue with either smiting their offspring and those of their peers or looking the other way when harm would come to them, not caring if they lived or died. And even within this very room, I have heard tales of countless bastards born from this lot, how many of them still live?” 

“You have quite the nerve!” Tsukuyomi roared, his composure finally cracking, Divine energy rolling off the Moon God in waves, the air around him trembling as moonlight flooded the chamber. “To sit before us and attempt to justify your theft by casting aspersions on how we govern our own affairs? You are a Devil, Lucifer, and you will remember your place in this hall!” 

Susanoo stood from his throne, causing the floorboards beneath him to groan under his weight. He pointed the end of Totsuka-no-Tsurugi at Sirzechs, which caused Serafall to jump up from her chair, her Demonic Power crackling around her. 

Michael stood from his chair, his hands raised in a placating manner, speaking gently to the room. “Please, no one gathered here wishes for this discussion to descend into violence. We came to resolve this matter, not make it worse.” 

Neither Tsukuyomi, Susanoo, or Serafall backed down, and Sirzechs remained seated, meeting the gazes of both Gods unflinchingly. 

“I only speak the truth,” Sirzechs said evenly. “I did have some good intentions with my actions.” 

The chamber erupted again and several of the lesser Gods rose from their seats, Divine energy flared in every direction. 

“He admits it!” 

“The Devils have grown arrogant.” 

“He mocks the authority of Takamagahara.” 

Serafall took a step forward, ice beginning to crystallize around her feet. And this caused the Devils and the Angels that she, Sirzechs, and Michael had brought with them to activate their powers as well. 

“Keeping pointing that oversized toothpick at him and see what happens next.” Serafall growled. 

Susanno grinned viciously at her. “I’d be more than happy to oblige your measly threat, woman.” 

“Enough, Tsukuyomi, Susanoo,” Amaterasu's voice did not rise as she said their names. “The promise of safety and no bloodshed was given so that all in attendance could feel comfortable coming here and discussing the Devils’ crimes. So, I would appreciate it if you two, and everyone else would conduct yourselves with some tact and understanding.” 

The Storm God's grip tightened around his blade before he returned it to its sheath for the first time since the meeting started and angrily sat down. 

At the same time the Moon God and the others put away their Divine energy, still glaring at the opposing faction. 

“Omoikane,” Amaterasu called one to one of the few Kami who had remained seated during the exchange. “If you would please.” 

The God who stood up from Susanno’s left side, was slight in build and unassuming in appearance compared to the overwhelming presence of his peers. He had kind, observant eyes that were bronze colored, a soft face, and with long hair that was tied up under a kanmuri. His robes were a simple grey blue with no embroidery, and he wore no adornments save for a single length of white cord tied around his wrist, making him look like someone's favorite teacher. 

“Thank you, Amaterasu-sama,” Omoikane said, his voice mild looked out over the chamber. “While it had taken some time to reach an agreement, we as a collective found it imprudent to devise this list of concessions that we expect to be carried out if conciliation is to be reached. First, all involved with keeping the existence of Sukehiro Natsuki secret, will formally acknowledge that they acted without the knowledge or consent of Takamagahara. A public apology will be issued before the representatives of our pantheon gathered here in Kyoto. Second, all information regarding the Devil Pawn contract currently binding Sukehiro Natsuki to the Gremory Peerage will be handed over so that reviewed by a committee of our own making.” 

The second stipulation drew immediate frowns from the Christian delegation. 

While the knowledge of the Evil Piece system had been shared with the Angels and Fallen Angels as a part of the truce between the three sides, allowing the Angels to create Saint Cards and used in what they now call the Brave Saint system, turning humans like Shidou Irina into Reincarnated Angels, it was still considered by Devil kind to be a closely guarded secret. 

Not even the Norse or other pantheons that had come to join their alliance were privy to the intricacies of the Evil Pieces as it was one of the greatest achievements of Devil magic, and a military asset as much as it was a cultural institution. 

Serafall's eyes narrowed. “Reviewed? Or replicated?”  

A murmur swept through the chamber and Omoikane smiled pleasantly. “Merely reviewed. Surely the Underworld has nothing to fear from transparency in matter as delicate as this.” 

Natsuki's jaw tightened; she knew this was coming, aware that the Shinto Gods would not allow what the perceived as a grievous insult against them and their authority to pass unanswered. And she worried about what else would be demanded because of her involvement. 

“Third,” Omoikane continued. “The previous agreement of non-interference that allowed your faction to control Kuoh Town and to move about Japan unimpeded will be rewritten with new terms. Use and control of Kuoh Town along with the ability to traverse the country, will now come with an annual tribute, payable directly to Takamagahara, together with the establishment of a permanent headquarters within the city to in which a representative will remain to oversee compliance with our laws and agreements.” 

“You are asking us to surrender sovereign authority over territory that has been under our administration for centuries.” Sirzechs said. 

“We are asking that all acknowledge whose land it has always been.” A Goddess sitting next to Omoikane corrected gently. 

She a graceful looking young woman with long black hair that was styled into an elegant shimada, pierced with multiple decorative kanzashi, pale skin and white, pupilless eyes. She wore traditional, teal-colored robes and was holding a biwa in her hands. 

Benzaiten, One of the Seven Lucky Gods, Goddess of wisdom, water, music, eloquence, and the arts. Natsuki thought. 

Benzaiten smiled warmly, her fingers idly brushing the strings of her biwa. “For decades, we have permitted foreign powers to maintain a military and political presence within our borders. That arrangement was born from trust but now that trust has now been broken, so you cannot blame us for wishing to fix what our previous pact neglected to prevent and predict.” 

“Thank you, Benzaiten” Omoikane said with a nod before turning his attention back to the other side of the room. “Our fourth demand will be given once our fifth demand is met and completed.” 

When Omoikane said this, Natsuki already knew what the fifth demand would be and clenched her fists. 

She turned her head to look at Amaterasu, and the Goddess met her gaze unflinchingly, still not showing any emotions on her face. 

So much for motherly love, huh. Natsuki thought, contemplating if running away was still an option, but knowing that she would not get far if she tried, not against beings as strong as this. 

“Our final demand is that the fate of Sukehiro Natsuki will be decided by this council, determining whether she will live or die.” 

A silence followed Omoikane, but it was quickly destroyed by Issei jumping forward, filling the space between Sirzechs and Serafall’s seats and slamming his hands against the table. 

“Are you serious?!” He shouted, his voice cracking, the last word filled with disbelief as the red gauntlet of his [Boosted Gear] flickered into existence. “You're sitting there talking about whether you’re going to kill Natsuki, acting as if she is an object and not a fucking person?! What is wrong with you?!” 

“She is one of ours, of course her fate is for us to decide,” One God said derisively. 

“Well, I’m not going to let you take her! Natsuki isn't your property!” Issei growled. 

“Calm down, Issei,” Sirzechs said, keeping his gaze forward. 

Issei glared at the Maou. “No! I won’t just-” 

“Enough!” Sirzechs spat, glaring at the Pawn from the corner of his eye, his Power of Destruction bleeding into the air, the energy was not directed at the Gods, but at Issei, forcing the young Devil to freeze in place. 

Issei broke out in a sweat, clenching his fists. “Sirzechs-sama-” 

“You have made your point, Onii-chan,” Rias said, taking a step forward. 

“Then control your servant,” Sirzechs said coldly, turning around to address the other pantheon and releasing his Power of Destruction. “I cannot agree to those terms, I admit fault in way we have handled thing, but you ask for too much.” 

Rias placed her hand on Issei’s shoulder, silently urging him to step back. Every instinct in the young Devil screamed at him to keep fighting, to keep shouting, but the look in Sirzechs' eyes told him that anything more from would only make matters worse. 

Reluctantly, Issei stepped back beside his King, though his fists remained clenched tightly; his nails dug into his palms. 

The rest of the Gremory Peerage felt the same as Issei, anger and disbelief warring with helplessness as they watched the Gods discuss whether it would be a good thing to let Natsuki live. 

And as they looked at Natsuki, they saw that the girl had gone completely still and instead of looking angry or frightened, looked visibly tired. 

“Natsuki,” Akeno whispered, her voice barely audible.  

Natsuki did not respond, keeping her gaze on the polished tabletop, watching her own distorted reflection. 

“Yeah,” Azazel leaned back in his seat. “I agree with the siscon, I’m started to doubt you even give a shit about the kid, this is all just an excuse to shake us down-” 

“You all misunderstand the situation that you find yourselves in,” Amaterasu said, cutting off the Governor General, her burgundy eyes piercing into the souls of those present. “This is not a bargaining table, the leadership of all three of your factions knew of my daughter’s existence as sought to use it for your own benefit. While I have no desire for war, I will have no issue leading people to the darkest pits of Hell and the golden gates of Heaven as recompense for your crimes. Which is why I am giving you the opportunity to agree to our terms.” 

Sirzechs frowned. “You would truly seek such destruction? Do think you would win such a bloody affair, and come out unscathed? Because I can assure you that-” 

“You have allowed your strength to make you overconfident, Maou Lucifer. You and Maou Beelzebub have been said to be comparable to some of the most power beings in existence, but you are just two men. Your weakness is evident in the fact that Devil kind had to end your centuries long cold war with the Angels and Fallen Angels because even you were aware that at this moment, the strength of your race would fail to match future threats. To us, there are certain things we will be willing to lay down our lives for, and this is one of them.” 

Odin finally spoke for the first time since the meeting began, the corner of his remaining eye crinkling as he smiled. “They’re still young, Amaterasu, they don’t understand the old ways.” 

For pantheons as old as the Norse and Shinto, they could remember a time when the world was in a constant state of war as it was the only tool used to resolve disputes, no matter how small and petty they were. 

It was a time of madness and death, differing factions trying to rise above each other, distrustful of Gods they saw as too different from them and what they knew. 

Amaterasu raised an eyebrow, showing the most amount of emotion so far. “And yet you have aligned yourself with them, Odin. And from what I hear, it’s because Loki has risen against you.” 

Odin shrugged. “I’m not as good at controlling my subordinates as you are it seems. But despite understanding why you feel so strongly about this, I think that the constant bad blood between different pantheons gets tiring after a while. We have more to gain living in harmony with each other instead of giving into our murderous impulses.” 

“Time has changed you; the Odin I remember would have been of a different disposition,” Amaterasu said softly.  

“I still like a good pair of breasts if that reassures you that I have not entirely changed,” Odin said with a grin, glancing at the Goddess’ body. 

While her brothers and sons bristled at the comment and the God’s lecherous look, Amaterasu was not offended, knowing what Odin was like and ignoring him as she looked back at Sirzechs. 

“Will you and your fellow leaders accept our terms, Maou Lucifer?” 

Sirzechs glanced at Serafall, Michael, and Azazel, receiving only silent nods in return.  

He let out a slow breath before returning his attention to Amaterasu. “We agree to your terms.” 

Akeno could not stop the lightning that sparked around her arms, her body shaking as she stared at the back of Sirzechs head. 

Fear gripped her heart at the realization that Sirzechs had just agreed to let the Gods decide whether Natsuki deserved to live. 

She could vaguely hear her friends speaking around her; she could vaguely hear her friends speaking around her, their voices distant and muffled as though she was underwater. Her eyes were locked on Natsuki, seeing that Natsuki was no longer looking at the table but at her mother, matching her blank expression. 

She remembered what Natsuki had said back at the hotel and wanted nothing more than to grab her and run away from this room and the shrine itself. She felt like a fool for promising the other girl that everything would be okay, and the lightning on her arms grew in response to her emotional state. 

Akeno was pulled out of her though by the feeling of someone grabbing her arm, and when she looked away from Natsuki, she found herself staring at her father’s face. 

Baraqiel took Akeno’s lightning into his own body, allowing it to dissipate, and when he was done, he looked at his daughter, the concern in his eyes impossible to hide. 

“Do not do anything rash,” He said quietly. “Not here.” 

Akeno jerked her arm from his grasp, voice trembling with barely restrained anger. “And if they decide to kill her? Am I supposed to stand here and thank them for it?”  

Baraqiel's expression hardened. “Losing control now will not help anyone, least of all her.” 

“You don’t care about her; don’t think I have forgotten what you said about Natsuki-chan back in Kuoh. So don’t tell me not to lose control.” 

Baraqiel shook his head and turned away, still standing next to Akeno, refusing to leave her side, further angering Akeno. 

At the same time, Rias glared at her brother, not knowing if she wanted to scream or hit Sirzechs. They were supposed to belong to a family that cared for their servants more than anything; that would do anything for them, and yet Sirzechs was not willing to do so for her Pawn. 

And she hated how a small part of her understood why Sirzechs and the others made this decision, knowing that Nastsuki’s singular life could not stand up against those of the Underworld and Heaven. 

You need to calm down, partner. Ddraig said through his and Issei’s mental bond. 

No! Why-Why should I?! They're going to kill Natsuki! Issei thought, ignoring the blood seeping through his fingers due to how hard they were digging into the palms of his hands. How can I just stand here and-. 

A sharp bitter laugh drew Issei and everyone else’s attention, and it was immediately obvious that the sound was coming from Rias Gremory’s second Pawn. 

Natsuki was smiling darkly at Amaterasu. “Do I get a fucking vote in this? You’re making this big decision about my life, so will I get a say?” 

Amaterasu did not falter, once again keeping her face passive. “No, you do not.” 

Natsuki’s body started to shake with rage. “You didn't even know that I existed until now, why do you even care if-” 

“Because you are mine,” Amaterasu said, still not raising her voice. “You are my responsibility as you have always been, whether either of us was aware of it or not. The circumstances of your birth, the choices made by others regarding your concealment, the life you were forced to build without the knowledge of what you are, none of that changes what you are to me. And none of it changes the fact that the question of your existence, must be answered that how we do things here.” 

“I'm a vulnerability?” Natsuki asked, the color of her eyes flickering between red and gold. “You can’t just-hmmph?!” 

Amaterasu flicked her wrist and a spark of finger formed from her fingertips and flew towards Natsuki, sticking itself to Natsuki’s face and covering her mouth. 

The fire did not burn the girl, but it kept her from continuing to talk, muffled shouts were all that could be heard as she tried in vain to remove the now adhesive flames but to no avail. 

The Sun Goddess then looked at the rest of the congregation. “If you would all please exit this chamber so that we may deliberate in private.” 

“What?” Issei whispered. 

“They’re going to vote right this second?” Saji asked, looking around the room horrified. 

The leaders of the Three Great Factions stood from their chairs silently, even Odin merely sighed as he pushed himself to his feet, the old god's single eye lingering on Amaterasu for a moment before he silently reached for his staff. 

The Angels followed Michael and Irinia looked back at the Gremory Peerage with pity before following. 

Baraqiel looked at his daughter, but eventually moved to follow Azazel and Odin, seeing that she was only focused on Natsuki. 

Akeno placed her hand on Natsuki shoulder, but the girl only glanced at her before staring at Amaterasu again. 

The goddess still looked at Natsuki passively and the Devil glared at her before allowing Akeno to lead her out of the chamber, the rest of the Peerage gathering around her like a shield, even if every single one of them knew how meaningless such a gesture truly was in the presence of so many Gods.

~X~

Once the doors to the chamber were closed, Amaterasu addressed her fellow Kami. “We have once again found ourselves at a familiar crossroads. I believe that last time we decided on the fate of a demigod was forty-three years ago with a son that Raijin had sired, a one Emanuel Araújo.” 

The God of Lightning, Thunder, and Storms crossed his muscular arms over his broad chest, his three fingered hands squeezing his biceps tightly enough that the muscles beneath his crimson skin flexed beneath the strain. His face twisted into a deep scowl, highlighting his Oni-like features. 

“I remember him,” Raijin muttered. “That little fool used his power to become an assassin.” 

Emmanuel had discovered his demigod powers at a young age, using them to escape the countless enemies that had sought to kill him for his heritage. Eventually, he found himself enmeshed within the supernatural community that existed in Brazil and decided that contract killings were the most efficient use of his abilities and the best way to enrich himself.  

He then would spend the better part of two decades building a reputation as one of the most effective supernatural assassins in South America, taking contracts from criminal organizations, human governments, and occasionally from factions who wanted plausible deniability for their more politically inconvenient problems. 

Eventually, Emanuel grew too well known to be ignored, the final straw being the murder of a very important priestess of Vesta, leading to Amaterasu to send out Yatagarasu to capture the demigod. 

“Emanuel may have turned out to be a corrupted soul, but that does not mean the same will be true for Natsuki,” Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy said, said softly. “Twenty years before him, we deliberated over a daughter that Ōkuninushi and decided that she would live, and now Laila al-Nouri lives on as a Zuijin.” 

Tysukuyomi watched his sister slowly raise from her throne, knowing that she was preparing to leave the chamber. 

It had been decided centuries ago that the parent of the demigods that were brought before them would never cast a vote, nor remain within the chamber during deliberations, as no judgement could ever be considered impartial while a parent remained present. 

He had never thought that Amaterasu would be in this position, especially because he has never seen her interested in anyone, whether they were godly or mortal. 

And this included himself as even before committed the shameful act of killing Ukemochi, the Megami of food, Amaterasu did not care for him as a lover, having only wed him because of their father, Izanagi's command. 

But despite only loving him as a brother, despite the anger and disgust she felt over his worse actions, Amaterasu had not turned him away or abandoned him, allowing him to stay by her side. 

And right now, after finding himself waiting to hear about what their peers had decided to do with his own demigod children serval times in the past, Tsukuyomi felt the need to return the favor. 

When the Sun Goddess crossed the threshold, she found the shrine’s guests standing in the hallway before the doors, with certain members of the group arguing with each other. 

Sirzechs and Serafall’s sisters seemed to be carrying most of the conversation, their male Pawns following their Kings’ leads while Michael and Azazel occasionally chimed in. 

Nearby, she saw Odin speaking to her daughter, the girl surrounded some of her King’s Peerage, ignoring the God while the others looked at the two with either anger or sadness. 

Sirzechs was the first to notice her arrival, frowning as he watched the Sun Goddess leave the chamber. “I thought that you would remain inside until the council reached its decision, Amaterasu-sama.” 

“I have abstained from voting, Maou Lucifer. It is our way in such matters, my presence would compromise the impartiality of the council's judgment,” Amaterasu explained. 

Natsuki scoffed, the sound devoid of much emotion. “You really don’t give a shot, do you?” 

Amaterasu frowned, showing the first hint of emotion that day. “I do care about you, Natsuki.” 

“You say that, but you don’t know anything about me, and you’re letting your fucking subjects vote on my life! Aren’t you supposed to be the Queen? Shouldn’t you just...” Natsuki trailed off, grinding her teeth together. 

She hated that she felt like a small child before the Goddess and did not know what she wanted from Amaterasu as her emotions were all over the place, warring within herself. 

“Because I am not a tyrant,” Amaterasu said. “What kind of Queen would I be if I placed my family above my people and above our sacred law?” 

Natsuki's jaw tightened, but she did not respond to the question. 

Amaterasu took a step forward, ignoring the way the younger members of the delegation instinctively shifted closer to Natsuki, and were looking at her wearily. 

“Your death would sadden me, more than you can presently comprehend. And if you were condemned to death, then I-” The Goddess turned her head slightly, angling her ear in the direction of the chamber. 

A heartbeat later, the great doors behind her were slowly opened, drawing everyone's attention.  

Omoikane stepped out into the hallway, inclining his head towards his monarch. “Amaterasu-sama, the council has reached its decision.”