The sky over the Phenex estate was bright and cloudless, the warm breeze trailing across the immaculate gardens and white stone towers of one of the Underworld's most prestigious noble houses. The air shimmered faintly with residual heat, magic warding off the intensity of the natural fire that permeated the estate.
Today, a carriage bearing the Gremory sigil stood before the estate's grand gates. Inside stepped out Rias Gremory, dressed in an elegant red and black dress that fluttered slightly as she moved. Her scarlet hair framed her youthful face, and though she held her chin high, her sapphire eyes darted with cautious curiosity.
"I'm only here because Father said it would be polite," she told her escort, crossing her arms as if steeling herself, making it seem as if she herself didn't ask for this.
"Of course, Lady Rias," the servant said with a half smile, clearly used to her airs.
From across the courtyard, Riser Phenex approached with calm, composed strides. At ten years old, he already stood five foot eight taller than most adult devils with a form that show how much muscular and graceful he's become, wrapped in a tailored crimson coat lined with gold. His bright golden eyes sparkled with warmth, and his expression was respectful, but not overly formal.
"Heir Rias," Riser said with a bow, offering a slight smile. "Welcome to House Phenex. I hope the journey wasn't too taxing."
Rias looked him over, cheeks coloring faintly but she scoffed instead of answering right away. "You look like a statue come to life. Do you always try to look that perfect?"
Riser raised an amused brow. "Only when we're hosting royalty."
Rias snorted, then turned her face away so he wouldn't see her tiny smirk.
And so the Tour Begins
Riser led her through the estate's expansive halls and gardens, offering tidbits of history and detail. Despite her earlier attitude, Rias listened more than she let on, occasionally asking questions though always couched in sarcasm.
"And this is the courtyard where I usually train," Riser said, gesturing to the scorched marble and obsidian arena ringed with enchanted flame resistant wards.
"Of course it is," Rias said. "Let me guess you light yourself on fire and fly around like a torch?"
Riser chuckled. "More like a comet."
That made Rias giggle, but she quickly covered her mouth. "You're not supposed to be funny," she muttered.
"I'm full of surprises."
Moving to more quieter place where one can have a Private Conversation
they sat at a balcony overlooking the central flame gardens, where red and gold flowers bloomed in harmony with flickering elemental fire. A breeze carried the warmth of the estate's core.
"You seem more different then what I expected," Rias said suddenly. "Not like the other nobles who wish to rush things."
"How so?" Riser asked, sipping a goblet of cooling fruit wine.
"You're polite, but you don't treat me like I'm just a Gremory. You talk to me like I'm just me Rias."
Riser tilted his head. "Would you rather I only see your title?"
"No," she said quickly. "That's not what I meant."
They were quiet a moment before Riser spoke again, more softly. "I'm planning to request a territory in the human world soon. A small one, just to begin building something of my own. My father supports the idea."
Rias's eyes widened. "Really? You want to live in the human world?"
"I want to rule something, shape it with my own ideals. I've studied their culture their technology, their spirit. It's chaotic, but also beautiful. There's so much potential. Magic and innovation side by side."
Rias looked thoughtful. "I've read about their world too. I thought it was fascinating. I always imagined going there someday."
Riser smiled, looking at the horizon. "Maybe one day we could stay there together after I build my territory there."
Rias blinked, cheeks glowing crimson. "T, Together?"
He turned back to her with a raised brow. "If we're to be married, it makes sense, doesn't it?"
"I, I didn't say I was okay with that yet," she snapped, looking away.
"I know," Riser replied, leaning back casually. "But time changes many things. I'm willing to wait until you're sure."
Rias bit her lip, then huffed. "You're annoying when you're nice."
Riser only laughed. "Thank you."
A Budding Connection
As the sun set over the Phenex estate, casting gold and orange over the skies, Rias stood by her carriage once more. She looked back at Riser, who had walked her there.
"This wasn't terrible," she admitted.
"That's high praise coming from you."
"Don't get used to it," she said with a flick of her hair. Then, quieter: "But maybe you could visit the Gremory estate sometime. I suppose I wouldn't mind that."
"I'd be my pleasure."
As she entered the carriage, Rias peeked out once more. "Don't think this means I like you or anything."
Riser grinned. "Of course not."
The carriage door shut, and with a swirl of magic, it began its journey back toward Gremory territory.
Riser turned back toward the estate, a quiet smile on his face.