*53

Scene: ORC Clubroom – A New Member Joins

I entered the Occult Research Club room, with Asia Argento gently holding onto my left hand.

She glanced around the room curiously, her gaze calm as she looked at the four people waiting inside. Having seen them in the dream-space, she wasn’t as nervous as I expected.

Lifting my right hand, I gave a casual wave to the crimson-haired beauty sitting in the president’s chair.

“Hello, President. Your amazing Pawn has returned!”

She tried to appear displeased, but her interest in the blonde girl beside me was obvious. Her curious side was clearly at odds with her usual strict demeanor.

Rias spoke with a serious tone.
“Matsuda, do you know why I’m upset with you?”

There she was—legs crossed, arms folded.

(…Does she realize sitting like that makes her look even more stunning? Focus, man…)

Asia looked surprised at my candid thoughts slipping out. She didn’t yet understand the full extent of my, uh… “unfiltered” way of speaking.

I responded, meeting Rias’s gaze.

“I know. I kept my plans from you on purpose. I knew you'd try to stop me—or worse, come after me. And that could’ve gotten everyone hurt. I’m sorry, Rias… I just didn’t want to risk your safety.”

I paused and bowed deeply at 90 degrees. Beside me, Asia did the same without hesitation. She still felt guilty about everything—adorably so.

Rias didn’t say anything for a moment. She shifted slightly, arms still folded, and gave me a mild pout before turning her attention to Asia.

“Welcome, Sister Argento. I’m Rias Gremory, heir to the Gremory household. Matsuda spoke of you and his desire to protect you from the Stray Exorcist and the Fallen. So… what do you want now?”

Asia bowed again, then answered with gentle determination.

“My name is Asia Argento. I’m grateful to Matsuda for saving me. He gave me two options… and I’ve made my decision.”

She clutched my arm tightly, her green eyes filled with unwavering resolve.

“As long as I can remain by Matsuda’s side, I would be honored to become a Devil—if you’ll allow me.”

I won’t lie—my heart skipped a beat. The way she said it… it felt like a proposal. The sincerity, the faith, the affection—she was even willing to let go of her former life just to stay with me.

Rias's expression twitched when she saw how close Asia was holding me. She gave me a knowing glance, likely confirming what I already suspected: Asia would be her Bishop.

With a mix of joy at gaining a talented healer and slight irritation from a hint of jealousy, Rias spoke.

“Asia Argento, I, Rias Gremory, welcome you as my new Bishop. From this moment on, you’re part of my Peerage—and yes, you may stay by Matsuda’s side.”

Kiba, Koneko, and Akeno clapped softly to welcome Asia.

I stepped forward and raised a hand.

“President, would you mind waiting a couple of hours before performing the ritual?”

They all looked confused, so I continued, gently patting Asia’s hands.

“I just want Asia to read her Holy Bible one last time before she becomes a Devil. Once she’s changed, she won’t be able to anymore. I want her to make this decision with no regrets.”

Asia’s eyes glistened with gratitude. Her joy made my heart ache in the best way. She looked into my eyes, smiling so brightly, it was like the entire room lit up.

Rias nodded and gestured toward the back room.

“Asia, you can use my resting room. Take your time.”

Akeno smiled and gently led Asia inside.


---

When the door closed, Rias looked back at me, her tone soft but firm.

“Matsuda… why didn’t you trust me enough to ask for help?”

She stood, leaning slightly against her desk, arms still crossed.

(Why does she always pose like that? It’s… distracting.)

I shook my head and answered sincerely—doing my best to ignore, well, everything else.

“Because I knew you’d put yourself in danger for me. And I couldn’t let that happen.”