Chapter 14 - Things went pretty much as I expected them, well, except...

∆ Part 1

Taking a moment to catch my breath, I felt fatigue from the continuous fights taking a toll on me. The Ki I could use was not able to alleviate all of it.

"Now then...". Muttering softly to myself I took a look around.

The door behind me had closed before I knew it so I didn't have to worry about those guys for a few minutes at least, but I can't tell when someone will open it again. The best is to finish my business as fast as I can.

This room had a large number of computers?. Well I don't know if they can still be called that as they look more advanced that anything I have seen before. It seems they don't only focus on bizarre technology to make machines for experiments but these things as well.

I began typing on the computer I had closer... not sure why the keyboard is the only thing that is 'normal'. Reading through all the information that appeared, it seemed that there was need of a password to access any useful function. Straining my brain, I tried to remember the password I had seen before. I had slightly forgot it but lucky I managed to recall it easily. I was a little worried for a moment.

Ok. I am not an expert so this process took me a while. To begin with, I was only able to use this thing as I had seen other people(devils) doing it before.

...

...

A few minutes later I made some progress.

The restrains were finally released... but I was not going to stop there. I had many things in mind when I came here. It would be a shame to just leave without trying them out.

Huh? This is...?. The details about a barrier...? So it seems that it keeps people from finding this place. Unfortunately, it only shows the data about it, but I can't interfere with from here. Hmmmm.... I think this will also prove useful. But... I apparently have to go to Naberius' studio for this.

The lowest floor... Three floors more to go then.

If that is the only way, then I will go.

...

...

Finally done with everything I could think of, I was letting my body get used to the feeling of having my Ki back. Taking care of my wounds and fatigue from earlier was easily taken care of. No matter how much I hate to admit it... but my control at using Ki seemed to have improved greatly, not to mention my ability to heal my own wounds.

There was only one more thing to take care of... and that was to destroy this damned room so that they can't reverse any of the arrangements I made.

~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~

It took way too long but finally someone with a card that could open the closed door to the control room appeared.

Many guards had gathered already in the place, but not just anyone had the access card for this room, as the master of this facility did not trust most of the people who worked here enough to entrust them with an access card.

The large group of subordinates were anxiously waiting for that 'trusted' someone that could open the door so they could capture that little pest that kept breaking havoc everywhere.

The one who brought the key, was a devil named Nil who was quite old among the subordinate of Naberius. He who had worked for him since he was just a small devil, was his Buttler and a member of his peerage.

Lamenting this situation Nil observed as the large groups of devils were taking position to enter and apprehend that young youkai named Nora.

As he passed the card to one of the guards for them to open the door, Nil waited at a good distance away. He was pondering the poor fate of that child and many others under the hands of his master. Differently from Theodore, Nil was very found of children and he tried to take care of them even though they were forced to go through those experiments. He also tried to learn their names to never forget them as they did not last too long here.

It was heart breaking for him to have his master do those things, but he was already at the point of no return. Nil had become an accomplice by allowing Theodore to do these things. Even if he tried to take care of the needs of the children to lessen his guilt, he was not going to change the fact that he too was evil.

He had tried countless times to let the children escape but it has never been successfull. At some point he had just given up doing as he had failed so many times. Although he was punished for that, he could do nothing but receive the punisment. Still, he was allowed to live. Maybe his master just found him useful or it was just a plain trouble to explain his disappearance.

Yet... instead of the screams and yells of the child...

"What th-ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"

"Hey, y-gyahhhhhhh!"

"They are burning. Can anyone use water spells? We need to put out the fire! The flames are..."

"What are you guys doing standing there!? Move it!"

He heard the screams and yells of Theodore's subordinates.

Turning his sight to the door again, he could see a stunning sight where green wheel-like flames came flying out of the door and struck the guards who got in front of the door.

It made him doubt his eyes for a moment. He even thought that there was someone helping that child for a moment, but the reports said that only Nora was inside. Who could... No, if he had somehow removed his restraints then... he would be able to use his abilities again, and recalling what Nekomatas are capableof, it is not that strange.

But there was the question of how. No matter how he looked at it, Nora got too far away with his escape. Was there truly someone helping him?.

"Nil-sama, your orders. We are facing an unexpected resistance"

Suddenly a voice pulled him out of his thoughts.

As reclutant that he was to do this, he was still Theodore's subordinate.

"Have everyone retreat from the door, stay away from his view"

But maybe if he could give a little help...

"Do not engage yet, ȧssume a wait-and-see stand for the moment"

The questions is how.

∆ Part 2

Well, I certainly expected that there would be a lot of people coming my way but... wow.

The thing is that they quickly took their distance. Using Clarivoyance, I saw through the walls, and observed an elder looking devil neatly dressed as a buŧŧler. He seemed different from the other not only for his clothing but how everyone was listening to him. Which could be troublesome... I somehow have to take him down to avoid an organized mob trying to attack me.

At time like these... I wish I knew more Youjutsu spells. Throwing fireball and icicles at them is not going to be exactly effective as they are probably going to defend as soon as they saw them. My favorite plant manipulations is useless as I got no seeds to work with. 'Creating' plants using the same method as you 'create' fire or ice is not that effective as using seeds.

Transforming into a cat is... Hmm... unless I become a super cat it won't work but... I will certainly become smaller. Moving through them would considerably reduce the possibility of an attack so having an smaller body would help.

They are just standing there so I can give a try.

...

...

After making sure for the last time that I destroyed everything. I walked closer to the door nervously. Taking out the last thing I had from my pouch... the last bottle of alchool I thought of using but quickly dismissed that thought. It could come handy later.

Using Touki and Senjutsu to reinforce my body, I found my body filled with a familiar surge of power. Concentrating a somewhat high quantity of Ki on my feets, I compressed it further.

Then I leap outside the room, and ignoring one side, I gave them my back as I dashed to the other side. When there was enough distance, planting my right foot on the floor, I released the Ki in a burst like I had done that time before, impulsing me even faster to the gathered devil guards.

"He is out! Attack!"

"Don't treat him lightly, he is dangerous. He even held his ground against team 5 and 8"

Of course, they did not stay there just waiting for me to close in... a large number of magic circles appeared on the air, proof that they were casting magic. Although... I was observing that older devil from before and he did not seen to be giving them orders as they acted more according to the situation... since they seemed somewhat disorderly.

"Hey, why are you attacking before the order came?"

"Shut it, Am I suppose to allow him escape because the orders came late? We will just take care of him and later we will deal with any other problem"

I had to jump to avoid the first attack that came at me... from behind.

Bracing myself, I landed just to twist my body to evade another one. They are somewhat slower than the Senjutsu bullets Kaa-san sent my way when I trained with her.

Not wanting to allow an one-sided attack, I used Youjutsu to throw icicles and fireball at them, mixed occasionally with one Kasha or two. I was not aiming at killing them but just to stop their spells from raining on me.

At just a few steps, I created a great number of Kashas and threw them their way before transforming into a cat and mixing up between their numbers.

Now I was not avoiding magic attacks. Instead it was their feets that aimed to stomp me but... I somehow managed to stay safe before going through them.

...

I transformed back into my nekotama form after moving away from them. Although I was more nimble as a cat, I could cover more ground with a form that I was more familiar with.

Perhaps I should consider learning to transform into something faster after learning more Youjutsu... there is surely some kind of spell for that.

Thinking back, my escape felt rather easy. Are they preparing some sort of trap?.

Using my ability, I watched as they dispersed in smaller groups and started to give chase. Everyone except that older devil who seemed to ponder for a moment before going straight to the elevator. Was he called by Naberius?

The guy in questions is coming to this floor on another elevator though...

I will think about that later. If Naberius is coming here then his studio is vacant.

I would really like to go and have a little chat with that b*stard, but my priority should be preparing the escape route so I can take Kuroka-chan and Shirone-chan with me.

...

...

Leaving the 37th floor was easier than getting into the damned floor. Although those guys dispersed to search for me, I had already covered enough distance to get to the stairs before they were able to block them.

The 38th floor seems to be some sort of library as I am able to see many books. As for the content... I won't be stoping here to check.

It will probably be a waste of time.

If I had that wonderful magic where you can store things though... I could just take everything this place has.

...

...

For some reason there has not been anyone after me even after going to the 39th floor. From over here, I have to move to a particular place to get to Naberius's place.

Although I don't seem to be alone.

This floor is an extension from the last floor, as there seems to be books and archives lined up everywhere.

With my Clairvoyance, I saw someone waiting for me just where the stairs to go further are.

It is that guy... that buŧŧler.

...

...

"I have been waiting for you. There is not need to be wary". Said an aged and somewhat tired voice.

No... When someone tells you those exact words, you should be extremely wary.

Forcing that retort down my throat before I said it. I walked closer to the figure waiting for me. Grey short hair with grey eyes, he doesn't look to be taller than 1.80mts... dressed in a buŧŧler suit. That is the appereance of the man who stood in front of me. It truly took a lot of self control to contain the urge to attack him and just go down to the studio of Naberius but... I am curious at why he is here alone instead coming here with mobs of devils to deal with me.

"Well, I suppose that my words are not particularly trustworthy for you so I will just get to the point. I want to help you". Said the older devil.

Wut?.

Is this guy alright on the head?.

Did he go senile?.

Or is it a phrase like.... 'I want to help you... to meet your maker, hayyaaaaa!'.

"I can tell from your expression that you doubt what I said, but I am serious. I want to help you escape... in exchange, when you leave. Take the other kids with you. I won't ask you to just keep them safe all the time, but just take them out of here". Explained the older devil.

Hmmmm.... I am truly at loss here.

~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~

One look at Nora's face and it was easy to tell that he was not buying the words of Nil even after he repeated them.

Smiling bitterly, Nil pondered what should he do to show that it was not a lie or a trick.

"Follow me, you want to get to Theodore-sama's studio right?. Let us continue talking there... It is the place you want to go anyways". Said Nil as he carelessly turned his back to Nora and started walking.

Hesitation could be easily read on Nora's expressions. His face aside, his hands kept going from a tightly closed fist to relaxedd and open palms.

It was not until Nil almost left Nora's line of sight that he moved to follow after him.

It was as the devil explained moments ago, he was going to that place after all.

So he warily took a look at his surroundings using Clairvoyance as he walked. There were not hidden people, no ambush, nothing.

Everything seemed fine, and that is why it was quite unsettling for him.

...

...

Despite his worries, nothing happened to Nora after he arrived to an spacious room where a desk was located just in the middle of it. Around it there were shelves filled with all kind of books and documents. Nil waited for Nora just in the middle of the room.

"As expected you came here. You are probably after the barrier, right?. Then you should start taking care of it at once. In that bookshelf you will find a buŧŧon. Press it as I can't get close to it because of a certain spell prevents me". Said Nil as he gestured to a particular shelf.

Staring at the place for a moment, and confirming every corner of the room, Nora moved to check the mentioned buŧŧon. And after rummaging the shelf, he was able to find the buŧŧon. Hesitating, he took a book a used it to press the buŧŧon in case there was trick. In just a moment, there was a sound coming from behind him.

A panel had just popped out of the floor when he was not looking. It was a pretty strange sight, leaving Nora baffled.

"This panel controls the barrier, although you would need certain item to make it work. Only one person(devil) carries that item... I don't need to explain further, do I?". Calmly said Nil before Nora got closer to the panel.

Stopping in his track at those words...

"Damn it...". Nora cursed under his breath.

"Cursing is not something praise worthy at your age, Nora". Said Nil as he heard him.

"Not it is taking children and experimenting on them... Answer me, Why are you 'helping' me?". Asked Nora as he stared at Nil coldly.

It was a normal reaction as they were not precisely allies.

"You don't need to mind this old man too much. I just want to do something about a problem that I have not been able to anything about until now. Your appearence here is precisely what I needed it". Replied Nil.

Nora just raised an eyebrow at that answer that practically said nothing at all.

"Although I understand why you are wary of me. In that sense, I don't want you to trust me or change the way you think of me. I am not really a good person(devil) after all. Let's just say we will cooperating to get each what we want". Explained Nil.

Staring coldly at Nil for a few seconds... Nora spoke.

"Why should I? As you said, I don't trust you. To be honest, I just feel the need to strike you down right here to avoid any possible trouble". Sarcastically said Nora as he created a green wheel-like flames on his hands.

Under the threat of the Youkai art called Kasha, Nil did not change his expression on the slightest.

"You might say that, but to take care of the barrier, you need me. Of course, you can just kill me and leave, but the barrier is not easy to be deactivated. Only a selected few can bring it down. In that regard... I am the only that will actually cooperate with you to do so". Said Nil.

An uncomfortable silent followed.

"Let's say that I actually believe your words... not like I do. What do you get from all this?. As far as I know, devils don't take well betrayal. So there is no way that someone like Naberius would be forgiving you for this". Replied Nora with a slightly frown.

"I have tried doing this before but failed. And I am still here. Nevertheless... I have just never liked this kind of thing". Said Nil bitterly.

"By the way, Why do you know my name?". Suddenly asked Nora, basically ignoring what was just said by Nil.

It was a clear change of subjects, but without minding it, Nil just pondered for a moment before saying.

"There is a child that joined my master's peerage not long ago. I am basically in charge of taking care of her and her sister, they-". Said Nil.

"That is not what I asked". Interrupted Nora using a rather harsh tone.

"Well... I just heard them talking about you". Said Nil while smiling bitterly at Nora's tone.

Still with his hand holding a Kasha, Nora remained like that for a moment before dispelling it.

"Why can't I just destroy that thing? Wouldn't it do the trick?". Asked Nora in an uncertain tone.

He walked to the panel and started inspecting it.

Nil just observed at the spectacle of Nora hitting the panel lightly here and there.

"It is quite tough to do so. Theodore-sama considered that someone might try to do the same so he had it made from an incredibly tough material. And even if you broke it... The device is set up in a way that would keep the barrier active unless it deactivated through it first". Explained Nil after Nora gave the panel few a whacks here and there.

"I can see that...". Rubbing his hands and frowning, Nora replied.

Gazing at every part of the room, Nora stopped to stare at a particular point.

"Do you believe me now?". Asked Nil as he wondered what the young youkai was doing.

"Yeah, yeah... I just tested what you said. By the way... Can you open that?". Asked Nora while he pointed at the area behind the desk.

Walking closer to that spot, he knocked a bookshelf.

"How di-". Asked Nil before being interrupted by Nora again.

"Can you do it? Can't you?. As you have things that you are not telling me, I won't just explain every single thing to you". Said Nora while frowning.

"Fair enough... As for what you asked... I indeed can. But I don't understand what you want from there". Replied Nil, while walking beside Nora and taking a book out.

*Click*

Such a sound was heard, and a small part of the bookshelf opened.

"Such a cliche... Impressive, but still a cliche...". Nora muttered under his breath.

Focused on what was behind the bookshelf, Nil did not hear what Nora said. So he did not stop his actions and opened a safe located there.

"Aren't you helping me too much?. I understand if it is related to helping the children escape as you asked... but this is a completely different matter". Curiously asked Nora.

It was rather strange for Nora the acttitude of Nil. He would've ȧssumed that he was being kept here until the guards arrived and cornered him again if he had not been observing their movements using Clairvoyance.

"Talking about them, I recalled that there is something that belongs to them here. I don't know what you want, but this is something I will retrieve now that I have the opportunity". Explained Nil as he took out a rather small box from the safe.

Opening to confirm the contents, he was about to keep the box in his pocket when...

"Wait, I want what you have there. I wanted to take that". Said Nora.

Perplexed, Nil did not know what to say for a moment.

"But this is...". Muttered Nil.

"I know who that belongs to, and that is why I want it. Well, taking a look inside the safe... I would like a few goods stored there as well". Said Nora as he moved the chair located at the desk to use as a foothold to reach certain things from the safe.

Stored inside, there were a number of Phoenix Tears vials.

"This is the one he took from me... and the others are just the repayment for doing so. Indeed, it is fair...". Muttered Nora while nodding as he took all the vials of Phoenix Tears and put them in his pouch.

At that sight, the calm expresión on Neil's face broke a little as the corner of mouth twitched a little. But considering what the child will have to go through he just silently accepted it.

Nil stared at the box in his hands for a moment before handing it to Nora.

"Take it...". Said Nil.

Giving a side glance to Nil, Nora just extended his hand to grab it. With even more care than the valuable Phoenix Tears, he stored the whole box in the pouch as well... not before putting a few things inside the box as well.

"Then, what is the plan after Naberius arrives? He should be coming here soon". Said Nora as he finished arranging all the vials in his pouch.

Nora just stared at the ceiling after saying that.

His actions made Nil curious, but he did not ask about it.

"Before coming here, I heard that something occurred on the upper floors and they needed reinforcements, but I cut the connection of the spell they used to communicate that, just as I began moving this way... so he will probably be taking care of that. If he comes here, then he won't be coming alone considering the disturbance. The strongest devil in his peerage will probably be with him for protection so...". Explained Nil.

"So it will be complicated. A fight would inevitably break out. That is what you are trying to say. Not like I expected this to go smoothly. Can you tell me anything about the guy in question?". Said Nora after understanding the meaning of Nil's words. Although he had a somewhat satisfied grin the whole time.

Thinking that Nora was a strange kid, Nil started to think about what to tell.

His actions this time will possibly spell his doom as what he is going to do is practically betrayal, so there was no need to hesitate in what to tell Nora as long he could get away and help the other kids... Or so he thought. Still, it was a slightly difficult topic as he had his doubts about how useful the information was going to be.

"Well... to begin with...". Nil began explaining.

∆ Part 3

Finished with his explaination, the devil Buttler remained silent as I pondered for a moment. From what I understood, the enemy is someone at High-Class. And apparently he is the man(devil) that caught me.

Now my expression was fixed in frown contrary from the earlier grin at the news of commotion going on upstairs.

This fight could be dangerous in many levels.

Putting aside the fact that the devil Buttler described the guys as someone strong, actually being Naberius' Queen... or so he said. What worries me the most is the possibility of the Buttler striking my back at some point.

I had decided to not attack him after confirming his words regarding the panel. As it was certainly very tough. The other thing he mentioned could be true as well. Although I can't deny that I also hesitated at the mention of him taking care of Kuroka-chan and Shirone-chan.

Their appearances were always neat and clean, and they were well fed. Those two always got snacks as well so... if he is the one that was making their stay here more acceptable and comfortable for them, I find it hard to just strike him down.

*Sigh*

Regardless of my feelings about it, I do need his help for now so I won't think deeply about this. Still, I will have to exercise extreme caution.

As for his request... I can't promise anything. Although my arrangements from before might be of use.

I turn my eyes to the ceiling and activating my Clairvoyance I looked for Naberius. He seemed to be moving in the direction of the elevator with three other devils.

Along with Naberius, that would make four. Well, five depending this buŧŧler's thoughts.

His words sound rather touching at the mention of wanting to have the children escape. But it does not erase the fact that he did not stop it from happening. I don't think that if the devil's government was aware of Naberius actions so far, he would remain unpunished. Too many crimes were commited by the guy so the buŧŧer still allowed things to escalate to this point.

And a certain floor of this facility would just make any sane person want to hang the guy.

I can only hope that neither Kuroka-chan or Shirone-chan had seen that place.

The 18th floor... the disposal floor... or so I am referring to it.

It still brings a chill down my spine just thinking at what I saw there using Clairvoyance once. And as unsightly as it sounds... I had to throw up my lunch that day. Thankfully I was alone at that moment.

...

...

Changing locations, it was a much better choice to fight on the 39th floor. It is much more wide and it would give me more space to evade. Although that would give them more space to them as well.

It is shame that I don't have my bow. I could use to snipe them, or at least try. On that note... my bow was probably left behind on the woods where I helped Masaomi and Cleria.

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As Nora and Nil had discussed, they where going to wait for Naberius on another floor. The major problem was going to be taking down the people who would accompany him here... in particular a tough individual made it difficult.

"Hey... How far are you exactly planning to go?". Asked Nora suddenly to the older man near him.

The person near Nora did not answer at once, instead he...

"...What do you mean?". Nil replied with a question of his own.

"Don't play innocent... You are clearly aware what I am talking about. As you had said before, we only need an item that Naberius carries. No more. And there is the issue of those other guys coming with him. Will you interfere if I...". Muttered Nora seriously.

It was going to be a big problem if the guy turned on him midway. Although he is not sure if he will get an honest answer, or if the answer was going to be enough to satisfy him... Nora still asked.

"I... won't stop you. Still, I would like it if you could leave handling Theodore-sama to me when the time comes. Is that alright with you?". Inquired Nil.

"Don't expect anything...". Nora only replied that.

After his reply, he started to diligently gaze at the ceiling.

...

...

"I won't fight together with you, each one on their own... It will be the best arrangement". Suddenly said Nora after turning his gaze from the ceiling to the elevator door somewhat a distance away from them.

Noticing his actions, Nil also turned to look in the same direction.

"I won't have any problem with that, but it could be dangerous for you. I saw you before using those Youkai techniques before to attack from a certain distance, I believe that it would be better for you to-". Nil tried to convince Nora to stay behind his back.

"It would be even more dangerous for me. Even if you tried to protect me, I doubt that you could hold the attacks from that many people(devils) back. I also won't entrust my safety to you". Replied Nora while creating a small number of Kashas and making them hover around him.

It seemed useless to say anything else so Nil did not insist anymore.

The old Buttler began chanting began chanting a spell, and after the magic circle of the spell enveloped him... a rather antique long sword along with small shield appeared equipped on him. The long sword and the shield seemed to be weapons that expressed a well balanced fighting style so it picked Nora's interest.

"You belong to Naberius peerage... Are you a Rook or a Knight?" Asked Nora curiously, even while doing that he kept creating more Kashas.

"This old man is just a Rook. Nothing particularly special. By the way... How many are you planing to make?". Replied Nil, and with a somewhat amazed expression as he pointed at the green flames that hovered around Nora.

There were already close to a dozen of those... and as Nil recalled, one hit of one of those and a weaker devil might get killed if the attack lands in a bad spot. He had already confirmed the casualties report from the battle when they had Nora cornered, it seemed that those green flames were quite dangerous.

"As many as I can... well, I won't be able to create more. They are coming!". Warned Nora as he got into position while observing the elevator.

Both of them where standing in a place where they could observe from a straight path, when the elevator's door would open. It was decided by them earlier as they discussed the best arrangement for the future fight. Their standing spot was close to great number of archives stored in the floor, in case they needed to take cover at some point.

Nil, hearing Nora's words took a deep breath. He worried about the outcome of what was going to come. Even if he made up his mind, he was still going to raise his hand against someone whom he had served for a long time as it was a tradition on his family.

"Hey, don't go having second thoughts now. If you are thinking funny things then I will strike you down before I do so with Naberius". Suddenly Nora with a frown as he could see Nil's hesitation.

Smiling wryly at those threatening words coming from such a small child, Nil thought that he can't just go having doubts at this point.

"And here they are!" Exclaimed Nora as he swung his arms forward sending more than half of the Kashas around him flying straight at the elevator door, that by the time those were half way through the distance... the door began opening.

It was a rather timed attack as just as the doors opened completely, the Kashas arrived at the doors. The only thing that the devils riding the elvator were able to see as the doors opened were numerous green flame-like wheels coming their way.

"Why!!! GyAhhhh!"

"This is n-Ahhhhh!"

From their position, Nil and Nora were just able to hear screams, as everything was engulfed in fire upon contact.

Just in case, Nora send a couple of Kashas again in that direction. However, before they got close to the door... something came flying from inside the elevator, colliding with the Kashas.

The result was Nora's Kashas and what came flying exploded mid-air.

Nora frowned and turned to Nil to give him a signal with his hands.

Understanding the simple meaning of the signs, Nil nodded before both of them retreated to a place where they were not seen from the elevator.

As there was no noise coming from the elevator, Nil pondered for a moment. Thinking back, he tried to recall exactly how the screams sounded like. Basically replaying those screams in his mind, he came to the conclusion that neither of those voices belonged to his master, or his fellow peerage member. The attack probably took care of other devils that came with his master this time.

Nil was about to warn Nora before he heard him clicking his tongue and...

*Tsk*

"No luck on taking out those two, well... at least they are alone now". Muttered Nora softly as he gazed in the direction of the elevator.

Stopping on his track, Nil wondered if Nora was using some kind of spell or technique from the Youkais to observe what was happening. Still, he did not pry.

"I will try to separate them so you should-". Tried to say Nil but was interrupted.

"I will attract their attention better than you. That guy probably won't kill me as soon as he sees me. The experiments were not done yet so he will probably try to capture me first". Explained Nora with a bitter expression.

"Still, that does not garantee that you will be completely alright. You should stay here while I do it". Said Nil with a frown.

None wanted to accept the other idea, Nil just wanted to help raise the chances of Nora getting out of this situation, but Nora didn't trust Nil for this task and thought that it would be better if someone like him did it as he was still an important test subject.

"You can't always expect to do everything by yourself...". Said Nil with a shake of his head, he began walking forward without looking back.

"Hey, where are you going I said that-". Tried to say Nora but was interrupted.

"It is ok. I will just try to bring them closer, it is not like I will fight them by myself". Muttered Nil as he kept walking.

...

...

As the fire burning calmed down, Nil was able to look at the espectacle that occurred thanks to that attack. There were two bodies lying down on the floor, and many burning wounds covered them. They were not moving so their fates could be discerned.

A little behind them, there was a magic circle that most likely worked as a shield. He was not sure as it was dispersed before he got close enough.

"Naberius-sama, there has not been more attacks. We should take this chance to leave". A voice was heard coming from the elevator, it was a familiar voice belonging to his master's Queen.

"I don't need you to tell me that, Chad. Let's quickly go to my studio, this place got messed up by that little b*astard, so many insects are running around, it would be a shame if they somehow came down here and messed the research data that I kept stored". Said a voice that Nil could recognize that belonged to his master.

Nil could only lament the obsession that his master had with research, at some point he could not think about anything else other than that. Was is simply because he was not good at anything else that he turned like that?.

~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~°~

"Hmmm? I don't see the attacker. Can you see him?". Asked Theodore as he glanced around his vicinity.

Trying to strain his eyes, not much was visible, so he was not able to see too far away.

"No, I can only see Nil-sama. Although I have never seen him using that kind of magic before... I believe that we should be careful as we can't rule out that possibility... Besides, he has his sword and shield equipped". Replied the devil accompanying Theodore.

"Nil? Oh, now that mention it... That is indeed the case. He did not respond to my summons despite how much I tried to contact him with communication magic. I thought he was a goner but he seems to be doing just fine... Chad, disarm him first. I have many questions that I wish to ask Nil". Ordered Theodore in a light tone.

While his tone was not harsh, Theodore was not exactly happy with Nil. There was a terrible mess upstairs and Nil instead of joining the others and trying to fix it, was here wasting his time. It seemed that some discipline was going to be needed.

"As you wish...". Replied the devil named Chad, before walking forward to apprehend Nil.

As there was some distance within the two, they did not meet immediately. But Chad and Nil were walking, reducing the distance.

Not staying too far away from Chad as it was dangerous since the attacker from before was not seen. Theodore walked behind his Queen.

It was a sudden attack, and something he did not expect so there were some casualties on his side. Well, they served their purpose as those two became a good meat shield, buying enough time for Chad to cast magic and protect both of them.

"Theodore-sama...". Called Nil in tone strong enough to be heard by Theodore.

Frowning a little in displeasure, Theodore thought of not saying anything but he spoke at the end.

"If you are trying to ask for lighter punishment, then give up. Right now I am not in a good mood. I am very disappointed on you... Besides, there is a need to ask some questions. Like for example... Where were you when the attack from a moment ago happened? You don't have the appearence of someone who just came after taking care of a foe... which makes me wonder what exactly is going on". Said Theodore in a questioning tone.

Glancing around he could not see traces of battle so it was not possible for Nil to appear coincidently after taking care of the attacker and be unharmed. That is, of course, after he ruled out the possibility of Nil being the attacker. He never had affinity for fire, even his demonic power was on the low side.

"Sir... I am well aware of my failures on this occasion. But I have a very good reason. Right now the entrance to your studio is closed, but there was a intruder just now. It is a very swift individual, and as you know I am lacking on the speed departament so I have not been able to catch him. I implore you to please keep the punishment for a later time after be caught him. Even as we speak, I believe that he must be nearby. If you could lend me some help I should be able to take care of him". Explained Nil in a regretful tone.

Not finding anything strange with the tone of voice or his expressions, Theodore thought that it seemed possible. Still, it felt a little strange. Nevertheless... while Nil had been a little rebellious as he helped some his test subjects to escape, that habit disappeared after giving them a gruesome end in front of him.

"Hmmm, I will call for more people to come here. Although there a not many to spare as they are taking care of the escapees. The little episode of letting subject 10032 run around causing problems is bringing me too many headaches. You will come with me and Chad to my studio, I wish to confirm if the more important data is completely safe...". Concluded Theodore.

No matter what, he had to check that none of the documents in his studio were damaged or missing. He had already left instructions to take care of the mess upstairs. There was no need to keep alive the worthless test subjects as they are easy to replace.

"Thank you for your tolerance, I will lead the way then. Please, follow me". Said Nil as he turned around and walked away.

Sharing a glance with Chad, he nodded. Indicating him that he should follow after him.

Only after Theodore signaled him, was that Chad moved.

Observing his two servants walk one after another, Theodore thought that he should perhaps consider raising his number of peerage members again. It has been enough time since the last ones died in an experiment gone wrong so he would not stand out if he looked for another one again.

He only wondered if he could get someone more useful than the last ones.

...

...

Moving through the archives around him, Theodore was considering getting someone to move this to another facility. It was beginning to be filled with too many things as many research projects were done here. Failures were the ones that filled the most space... still, it does not mean that this data is completely useless so getting rid of it is out of question.

As he walked, he stopped frowning. Suddenly there was a smell of something burning.

"Naberius-sama, there seems to be something being burn in that direction". Said Chad as he pointed at a certain direction.

Moving his gaze to that direction, Theodore was able to see that there was a growing fire extending to the numerous data stored in the place.

"And what are you two doing? Go and put the fire down". Ordered Theodore with an annoyed expression planted on his face.

He can't rely on the automatic system that would use water to put the fire down as all the systems are down. Another thing that subject 10032 seemed to have messed up.

Sharing a glance, Nil and Chad moved. As Nil was further ahead, Chad was closer so he took the lead. Nil began walking as well but came to a stop a few steps later.

Staring at Chad as he got farther from him, Nil turned to Theodore and spoke.

"Theodore-sama, Sir. Can I ask you something?". Muttered Nil in a very soft tone.

Frowning at that, Theodore was bȧrėly able to hear what his servant said.

"Speak louder, I bȧrėly understood your words just now. If you have nothing important to say then you shouldn't have stopped. So it better is". Replied Theodore at his Rook's words.

"I think that I did a terrible job as a buŧŧler at some point. But I lacked the awareness of it until there was no way to fix it... No... I just did not want to accept the possible solutions at that time...". Said Nil as he began getting closer... to Theodore.

At those actions, Theodore slightly panicked. Turning his sight to his Queen, he had found that at some point the fire had extended.

"Chad, Come back here! Forget about putting down the fire". Yelled Theodore.

He was expecting a positive reply right away but...

*Boooom*

Only the sound of an explosions came back as an answer.

"I let you go to the stray path with trying to correct you... Yet, I think it is time I did something about it. It took me this long get my resolve". Said Nil as he kept getting closer.

Now, it seemed clear to Theodore that he was being betrayed. He had a slightly suspicious that Nil had done something stupid again, but he never thought that it was going to be something of this level.

Quickly creating a magic circle, spellad raised his arm to cast the spell in front of him when he felt a terrible pain coming from his arm.

"Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!!! B*stard!". With a shriek of pain and throwing an insult, Theodore backed away.

Looking at his arm, there was long and deep slash wound freshly made.

It came as a huge shock since he did not expect his Rook's speed to be that fast.

"How dare you! After all I have done for you!!! And what is with that speed? You are suppose to have a Rook piece! Not a Knight piece!". Complained Theodore as he once again tried to cast another spell but he was interrupted when another pain coming from his stomach made him flinch and then scream.

"AaaaaAAaaah!! Damn it! Damn it!". Even as he threw insults, Theodore tried to desperately move some distance away to catch a breather.

Managing to get away from Nil, he heard him speak.

"It is not like there is a rule that states that if you become have certain piece means that your other abilities will disappear or that you can not use them. Each piece only boost a particular stat, you should be aware of that... Evil pieces are not absolute". Explained Nil as he was going to dash in Theodore's direction.

But before he did it...

*BAAAAM*

Such a sound was heard and it was followed of a figure that came crashing in the middle of the two devils.

Theodore could identify a small figure wobbly standing up.

"Don't mind me, don't mind me. Just keep having your fun, I will do my stuff over there". Said the voice belonging to that figure before dashing in the direction he came.

It did not take too much effort to Theodore to identify that figure, be seeing it or just hearing that voice. He was familiar with it. Subject 10032, that hateful test subject was the cause of everything he-

"Arghhhhh". Groaning from the pain, Theodore lost his balance as a new slash wound was left on his leg after Nil cut him with his sword.

Falling to the floor, he could only awkwardly crawl away.

*BOOOOOOM*

*BAMM*

*BOOOOM*

A series of explosions were heard, before a familiar figure crashed near Theodore and Nil.

Standing up with some difficulty...

"I almost got it this time, don't mind me. Sorry for interrupting. Oh, hi there. How are you doing Naberius? Looking good huh? Well, see ya". Subject 10032 muttered that in a happy tone before he dashing again to the place where he came from.

"That annoying little...!!!". Said Theodore, as he glared viciously in the direction of that youkai, cursing his own situation internally.

"That look... Theodore-sama, it is that look that made me do this. You have gone too far. No, you had gone too far since long ago". Said Nil in sad tone.

"And what? Are you suddenly some kind of hero of justice? Your hands are also dirty. You have done a lot stuff like me as well. Or you are going to say that I forced you?". Trying to desperately cover his bleeding wound, Theodore lashed out at Nil.

Leaping in his direction, Nil swung his sword at Theodore again, and attack that he awkwarly evaded. He tried to use magic but even before he was able to cast some magic he was attacked so he delayed any try, and he saw how he was not attacked again.

Not answering, Nil just remained silent at those words. And Theodore smirked.

"You obeyed my orders. There were many opportunities where you could've just gone to the government and inform them of my actions, yet you did not so. You are such an hypocrite!". Exclaimed Theodore.

Those words made Nil flinch, and he looked visibly shaken. But before Nil was able to reply.

*BOOOOM*

*BAAAAM*

Someone was sent flying in their direction again.

Lying down in the ground that figure took longer than the other times to stand up.

"*Cough**cough* A little help here would be nice... or just change with me for while. You are taking too long". Complained subject 10032.

Nil just looked at Theodore one last time before he moved in the direction of Chad in order to face him... escaping from the situation he was in.

Thinking that it was his chance to get away and get into his studio to treat his wounds and call for more subordinates to come here, Theodore tried to stand up.

"I knew that the buŧŧler would not be able to take care of you. This works for me actually. I feel that there is a need to repay you what you have been doing to me". Said subject 10032 in light tone of voice, although his expression said otherwise.

At those words that sounded like mockery to Theodore, he could not help to stop his escape. It was one thing to be look down by someone stronger than him, but this b*stard was just a Low-class(high) as he recalled.

"Don't get ċȯċky! You think that what happened before is something that will repeat itself? You had just caught me off guard at th-". Theodore angrily spoke but his words were cut as had to cover his face with his hands since a green flaming wheel was thrown at him.

Due his wound on his leg, he was not able to make a better effort at evading... or that is what he told himself as he did not want to accept that he was taken aback by the attack.

As the the flaming wheel made contact with him, he felt his arms getting burn a little but it was less hotter than he thought, and just as he was going to mock subject 10032 for his pathetic attack... he felt a terrible pain coming from his stomach.

Looking down he could see as subject pushed his hand into his abdomen. The pain almost made him faint, but he held onto his consciousness by biting his lips, and swung his arm at subject 10032, who avoided the attack by stepping back... not before dragging part of the content of his stomach outside when he pulled his hand bad.

Observing that hand, he could see that it looked different. A somewhat translucent form of energy formed an extension from his hand, making his fingers have a sharper form. Is that a Youkai art?

"Killing you quickly would be a blessing for you as you are someone I can't forgive. Really, even the kindest person would pretty much spit on you after they heard what you have done in this place...". Muttered subject 10032 expresionlessly.

"Ha! Are you going to give a talk about what is right or wrong as well?". Spitefully said Theodore as he tried to buy time for his Queen to come back to help him.

*BOOOOOOM*

He could hear explosions on the background so he seemed to be struggling. But it was impossible for Chad to lose to his buŧŧler.

"What? No. You are nuts, even if I tried to explain it to you how awful were the things you did, you wouldn't even give a damn. Besides, I am not here to do justice for others, I just wanted to leave this place... in order to do that I had to do this. Although... taking care of you is more a personal grudge about something you did... and what you might do if you are left alive". Commented subject 10032 as turned his sight for a moment to the explosions location.

"Personal grudge? So it is plain revenge for what I did to you after all". Said Theodore as he prepared to cast some magic only to stop when subject 10032 glared back at him.

Somehow creating two of those flaming wheel, that he just kept at his side.

"Revenge...? Who knows. I don't desperately seek something like a pay back for what you did to me. I understand my position as just some weak youkai. My words probably wouldn't matter as I am now... Just leaving here would've sufficed for me until I was in position to actually do something". Explained subject 10032 with a somber expression.

"Then... Why are you here now?". Asked Theodore.

He was curious why this kid went this far then.

"Oh, that?. You doing those things to her, put me in one terrible mood. When she came crying... I knew that I could not stand waiting any longer to leave. Being indecesive caused that. If I only had the guts to take you down before, she wouldn't have gone through that". Replied subject 10032 in an icy tone.

Flinching slightly at the sheer animosity contained in those words, he found it creepy seeing a child giving that aura.

But, the words he had just said... made him doubt his hearing abilities for a moment.

"For that..? You are saying that you are here... trying to kill me... FOR JUST THAT!!! FOR HER? YOU MEAN THAT STUPID YOUKAI? THAT DAMNED BISHOP? HA! YOU SAID I AM 'NUTS' BUT YOU ARE CLEARLY INSANE!". Yelled Theodore emotionally.

"Oi... Just shut up". Said subject 10032 icily as he threw the flaming wheels at Theodore.

Already having recieved that attack before, Theodore half covered his head with one arm, clearly understimating the damage it could cause... a terrible mistake.

This time's flames were clearly different from the last ones... they were hotter, they did not go off quickly, in fact they keep burning him after they crashed into him.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH". Screamed Theodore as he could not hold back his screams this me.

Being burned from the upper half, Theodore was not able to see anything. He only felt several slashes on his unharmed leg, which he was using to lean on.

As the wounds caused his already difficulty to remain standing to pummel down, he just fell yo the floor when he could not hold it anymore.

"AAHHH! WAIT! JUST WAIT! I WON'T YOUCH HER AGAIN, I WILL LET HER GO TOO! JUST LET ME GO!". Begged Theodore as he got the chance when the flames died out enough.

"Oh? Really?". Asked subject 10032 in an expectant tone, his icy tone was no more. Although Theodore was not able to see his still expresionless face.

"YES! I WILL. YOU JUST HAVE TO LET ME GO AND I WILL NEVER INVOLVE MYSELF WITH YOU TWO AGAIN". Hearing subject 10032's tone, Theodore continued to beg.

He was by no means going to follow his words, but he was up against a kid, he had to lie to him so he would let his guard down. After getting into his studio he will use his stash of Phoenix Tears and heal his wounds... paying back all the things that b*stard did to him can wait until then.

"I see, then I suppose I can let you go... or not. You think I am stupid?. You were not going to do what you said,I t is easy to tell. When a scum like you starts talking nicely... there is clearly something wrong. Let's see... you planned to go to your studio and use your secret stash of Phoenix Tears, right?. How predictable. Really, it is just a waste of time hearing you speak. Just die, you sicko". Said subject 10032 icily again, and Theodore was now able to look at his expression that never changed from a expresionless mask.

For a moment, Theodore could not help but remember that this child was the one who planned to kill him before... that look he gave him, it was not just from animosity, subject 10032 was looking at him... just like he looks at his dead test subjects.

Ah, now it dawned onto him... he was just being played by that kid, no, that wicked child. Those were the eyes used to look at a dead man.

"Curs-". Theodore tried to curse one last time but his voice was cut as subject 10032 had came closer and with a hand that reminded him to a claw, punctured his ċhėst... just where the heart is located.

Darkness instantly filled his vision. He wondered for a moment if he was already dead when... he could think no more.

∆ Part 4

How much time had gone by?. Kuroka lost count of how many times she asked herself that.

At some point, the collar attached to her neck came off. The bothersome collar that would hurt her was no more, but she could not feel relief as it probably meant that someone did something about it... Nora... he did say how he would take her sister and her out of here.

There were a couple of times were there were knocks on the door and a voice calling her was heard. It happened multiples times.

How much time had gone by?.

"Onee-sama...". Muttered worriedly a voice beside Kuroka.

Shirone was by her own initiative leaning on Kuroka. She tried to stay as closer as she could to bring a little conform to her sister, expecting Kuroka to take the opportunity to hug her like she likes to do. But she see seemed to be too distracted to do so.

Kuroka, of course, knew what Shirone was up to... yet, she could not muster the energy to act like her usual self. The anxiousness was too much for her.

*Knock* *knock*

At the distinctive sound of a soft knocking, both Nekomatas tensed up. They had been very careful to follow Nora's instructions to stay in the room, and everytime there was a sound, they tried to remain really silent to avoid being detected.

*Knock* *knock*

Holding each other's hands to calm themselves down, they waited the sound to stop.

"HEY! NORA EXPRESS IS HERE! Hmmm, that is one phrase I always wanted to say". Yelled a voice from outside their room.

Their mood instantly made a complete turn as they practically leaped from where they were seated. Jointly working, they managed to remove all the things they piled up to block the door, and opened it.

As Kuroka first saw Nora, the wide smile that she had after finally hearing his voice was erased and it was replaced by an almost crying expression. Kuroka felt her heart ache as she observed him.

Hastily moving closer to him, she started to pat him all over to check if he was hurt... after all, he was covered in blood all over.

"Hey, hey, where are you touching? I won't be able to ever get married like this...". Nora tried to joke to ease her worries.

She understood his intent but she did not stop until she made sure that he was not hurt. Even Shirone cooperated with her by touching here and there.

"No, really, I am fine... This is... You know, 'This is not my blood'". Joked Nora again.

"Nora-nya, be quiet-nya!". "Nora should stay quiet until we tell you to". Spoke Kuroka and Shirone respectively.

"...Yes". Replied Nora with a wry smile.

Only after making sure twice, that he was fine did Kuroka stop.

"Finished? Alright, sorry for being sudden, but take this. Do never give this to anyone else. If someone tries to take this away from you... Just drop the names of the Gremory household or the Sitri household. Ask for either Sirzches or maybe Grayfia... then when you meet them, show them this and tell them to lend a hand... well, remember this just in case". Nora explained a number of things as he took a pouch he brought and gave it to Kuroka.

"Wait-nya! Wha-". Tried to ask Kuroka but was interrupted.

As Nora looked up to see the ceiling, he seemed to be in a hurry.

"Let's go, our chance came... Everything will be ok". Hastily said Nora as he took Kuroka and Shirone's hands and pulled them as he began to run.

...

...

...

Continuously running, they were stopped a couple of times, but Nora took care of any devil getting their way by throwing a green colored Kasha that surprised Kuroka as she didn't know that Nora could use it too.

Some other times, they would find some test subjects that were easy to identify by the similar clothing they had as it resembled to Nora's. At those times, Nora would hesitate for a moment but he would still lend a hand.

...

...

Getting closer to the exit of the facility, they found a different group of devils wearing a different uniform from the guards of the facility.

They stopped them and offered to take them out. Although they separated Nora from her and Shirone.

Kuroka was about to resist but Nora just told her to calm down... and how they would reunite later. He also told her to not forget his earlier words.

Watching as he was taking away in a different direction from her, Kuroka felt at loss but holding onto his words... she just took Shirone's hand and followed the directions of this new group of devils.

Hey there, Author here.

Here is the next chapter of the story.

There are many points that people will probably complain about, so let us talk about them.

First, about Nora's power up? Sure, it might look that way, but you gotta remember that in the last chapter he struggled a lot because he was only using scarses amounts of Ki to strengthen himself... This time? Full power of Senjutsu and Touki. His abilities will surely go up. And as he was not fighting tough people, there is no need to struggle like before. The Kasha? That is a high ranking technique... and as Nora's ki is quite high quality... it gives him quite the power.

How he escaped? I just thought that method was more 'realistic' than staying holed inside room as many more devils came.

There is the fact that he killed more naturally than before... Well, that will be talked over in another chapter, be patient for now...

Now, for the death of Naberius... and the appearence of Nil. I created the Buttler as someone who took care of the Nekomatas. They were taken care of, remember? Well, he did it. I also wondered how was Kuroka able to escape all on her own in the canon so I thought she might've gotten some help. As for Naberius... yeah. He was nuts. I planned for Nora to kill him... Any comment about it, please save it until the next chapter where I will write about what will happen...

I know I kept asking you to wait and wait, but really. I think some of your questions will be answered after you read the next chapter.

Good day to you....