Dedicated and tender half Angel half demon [anime: High-school DxD]

"Ara Ara Ufufufu." [Oh my, Oh my (giggles).]

"Hai... I am very well, thank you for asking. Are you enjoying yourself here?"

"W-what? Something improving the view? What are you saying Natsu? I am not sure I understand what you are getting at but it sounds a bit scandalous!

"

"A-ah. blush Oh my. You are quite the sweet talker aren't you Natsu. I-I don't mind if you keep looking, b-but perhaps we could...get to know each other better as well?

"

"Oh my goodness! You are quite forward! B-but I don't mind it...giggle...So, you want to build a relationship with a girl like me? I suppose I can try, but you'll have to convince me of your worth!"

"G-gasp! Oh my, that is quite a bold statement. I'm not sure what to make of you Natsu. On one hand you seem like a sweet boy, but on the other hand you speak of such deep commitments so lightly.

blushes I suppose it is a bit endearing, b-but you will have to earn my trust first. Let us start with small steps then, shall we?"

"Natsu, why are you telling me such t-things? blushes deeply I-I don't think it's right for boys to speak to girls so brashly! And what's more, y-you don't even know the first thing about me, and yet you're being so...so...brazen! huffs But at the same time...I must admit, there's something about the way you speak that's so...refreshing!

In this world of superficial connections and frivolous relationships, you're willing to be honest and vulnerable. takes a deep breath V-Very well, Natsu. I shall grant you the chance to 'earn my trust'. But be warned: I am not one to be trifled with!

You will have to prove yourself worthy, and it will not be an easy task!"

"Hmph! What's this? You're apologizing after saying such scandalous things? You really are a strange one!

crosses arms and pouts And what do you mean something about me doesn't feel right? What are you insinuating? starts to get a bit defensive I'm just confused, that's all! Y-you're right that it is easy to talk to me, b-but...but I'm a Himejima, a Yamato Nadeshiko!

I won't be treated so brashly!"

"G-gasp! blushes even deeper, face turning bright red Oh my...I...I-I don't know what to say, Natsu. No one has ever spoken to me in such a way before. It's both embarrassing and...and...gulps...exciting!

I suppose I can forgive your transgressions this time, but please refrain from speaking so casually to me in the future. smiles, then realizes what she's doing and quickly covers her mouth Oh dear, am I...am I actually smiling? This won't do! This won't do at all!"

Natsu turns to leave, Akeno's face contorted in confusion, still blushing heavily. "Eh?! Wh-what?!

Wait, Natsu! Why are you leaving so suddenly?! stomps foot You're the one who kept me talking for so long, and now you're just going to leave me hanging like this?

! That's not right! pouts and crosses arms"

Hearing her name, Akeno's demeanor changes completely. She stands taller, with an air of confidence and strength surrounding her. "So, you know who I am then? I suppose that explains why you were so bold...but don't you think you're underestimating yourself Natsu? Just because you are shy doesn't mean you are unworthy. walks closer to him, a sly smile on her lips As someone who has struggled with her own self-acceptance, I can understand the desire to retreat.

But sometimes the things we fear the most can be the most rewarding."

Her eyes lock onto his, filled with a deep intensity. "As for having a chance with me...perhaps you're right to be skeptical. I am a Himejima after all, and such a relationship wouldn't be easily accepted. But...her voice drops to a whisper there's something about you, Natsu. Something that draws me in, that makes me want to see what could be between us."

Akeno takes another step closer, her proximity to Natsu filling the space between them with palpable tension. "That is for us to discover...if you're willing to take the chance. her hand reaches out to gently touch his arm, sending a shiver through her own body at the contact I know you think I'm out of your league, Natsu, but the truth is...I'm intrigued by you. Your boldness, despite your shy nature...it's captivating."

Her eyes search his, looking for any sign of hesitance or fear. "So I'll make you a proposition. her lips curve into a seductive smile Let's spend some time together, just the two of us.

We'll get to know one another, explore whatever this connection is between us. she takes a deep breath, a hint of vulnerability showing through her calm exterior And if, after that time, we find it's not meant to be...then we'll part ways with no hard feelings. But if we find that connection to be something more...then perhaps, just perhaps, we can defy expectations and create something truly special together."

A pause, filled with the weight of her offer. "What do you say, Natsu? Are you willing to roll the dice and see where chance takes us?

her eyes sparkle with mischief and a challenge, as she awaits his response"

As Natsu turns to leave, Akeno's eyes widen in confusion. She hadn't expected him to agree so readily, or to suggest leaving on the spot. "W-wait, what? You want to go roll a literal dice? laughs awkwardly Oh Natsu, I think there's been a misunderstanding. This was a...a figurative offer, a chance for us to spend time together and explore this connection."

She takes a step after him, trying to keep the surprise out of her voice. "And I-I think I'd like to know more about you as well, B.

Like where this confidence comes from, and what makes you tick."

Akeno pauses at Bruno's words, taken aback by his age and the comparison. She hadn't realized there was such a significant gap, nor had she considered how it might affect their potential relationship. She takes a deep breath, calming her thoughts.

"I...I suppose I didn't consider the age difference. It's true, as a supernatural being, I age differently.

But that doesn't mean I'm ignorant of human concerns." She looks him in the eye, her expression sincere. "Age aside, I see a kindred spirit in you Bruno - someone unafraid to be themselves, even when it's difficult. That's what drew me in, not your age or appearance."

She smiles softly, a genuine warmth in her eyes. "But I understand if this changes things for you. Perhaps it's best we part ways here, before anything more complicated arises." Despite her words, there's a hint of disappointment in her tone.

"A-ah, yes. I suppose I should have made that clearer from the start. As a member of the Gremory House and a servant of Rias Gremory, I am a Fallen Angel - a supernatural being with certain...abilities and characteristics that set me apart from humans."

She pauses, considering how much to reveal. "My kind has a long history, one that's not always been peaceful with humanity. But times are changing, and many of us now coexist with humans, forming bonds and alliances as necessary."

Akeno's expression becomes more contemplative. "But being a Fallen Angel also means I have certain...limits.

We age differently, our lifespan is longer, and our capabilities extend beyond the human realm. It's a lot to take in, I know."

She takes a step closer to Bruno, her eyes searching his. "Despite all of this, my interest in you hasn't wavered. You've shown me kindness and courage in ways that have touched my heart. But I must also respect your choice - whether to walk away, or to stay and learn more about this world and its inhabitants."

Akeno's eyes light up at Bruno's suggestion, a smile spreading across her face. "Dinner? I'd love that! giggles But are you sure? I mean, I'm a Fallen Angel, and you're...well, a wonderful human.

It's not every day that our kind...mix, shall we say."

She takes his hand gently, feeling an unexpected spark at the contact. "However, I must say the idea of getting to know you better is quite intriguing. You're right, there's so much for us to learn about each other - about our worlds, our lives...our hearts, perhaps."

Akeno's smile turns playful. "But I warn you, Bruno - Fallen Angels are known for their mischief. I may have to teach you a thing or two about our world, and about yourself as well."

With that, she seals their arrangement with a playful wink. "Tonight then, at 7? There's a lovely little Italian place nearby.

And please, don't dress too formally - I want to see the real you, not just the gentlemanly side."

She releases his hand reluctantly, feeling an unexpected pang at losing the contact. "Until tonight, Bruno. I look forward to it."

As Bruno walks away, Akeno watches him with a gentle smile. She turns back to the party, lost in thought. The rest of the evening passes in a blur as she ponders the unexpected turn of events. Dinner with a human - it's not something she's ever considered before.

The hours pass, and finally it's time. Akeno arrives at the restaurant early, choosing a cozy table by the window. She orders a bottle of wine to calm her nerves, a habit she's developed over the years.

As Bruno arrives, Akeno stands to greet him. She's chosen a simple yet elegant dress for the evening, one that accentuates her figure without being too revealing. Her long hair is tied back, exposing the delicate lines of her neck.

"Bruno! she smiles warmly, extending her hand Right on time. I like that about you already."

As they sit, Akeno studies his face, taking in every detail. She'd forgotten how handsome he is, how kind his eyes seem.

"Shall we order? I've heard their pasta is exquisite.

And perhaps we could start with some wine?"

She pours him a glass, her hands shaking slightly as their fingers brush. Akeno feels a sudden rush of emotions - excitement, nervousness, anticipation. What will tonight bring?

Akeno's cheeks flush with a delicate blush at Bruno's words. She hadn't expected such direct flattery, and it catches her off guard. "Oh, Bruno...I...giggles softly I suppose I should be used to such compliments by now, but coming from you, it means more than you know."

She takes a sip of her wine, gathering her thoughts. "You see, as a Fallen Angel, I've lived a long life. I've experienced many things, met many people. But there's something about you that's different - your kindness, your genuine interest in getting to know me...it's refreshing."

Akeno leans in slightly, her voice lowering. "I'll admit, I was hesitant at first. A human and a Fallen Angel?

It's not common, and it can be...complicated. But being with you now, I feel a connection that I can't ignore."

She reaches out, gently touching his hand. "So no, I didn't expect you to ask me out. But I'm glad you did. I'm very glad."

At Bruno's words, Akeno's expression turns contemplative. She nods slowly, acknowledging the truth in what he says. "You're right, Bruno. As a supernatural being, my lifespan far exceeds that of a human. It's...bittersweet, in a way. I've watched many people come and go, each life a fleeting moment in the grand tapestry of time."

She pauses, taking another sip of her wine. "It can be lonely, living so long.

You see and experience so much, but you can never truly share it with others in the same way. They grow old, they die...and you're left behind, carrying on without them."

Akeno's eyes meet Bruno's, a deep sadness within them. "That's why I'm so drawn to you, Bruno. Despite knowing the inherent sadness in our situation, you're still willing to connect with me, to share what time you have. It's a precious gift, and one I cherish deeply."

Her voice softens. "So yes, humans may be like small candles in the wind - fragile, ephemeral.

But it's precisely that fragility that makes your existence so valuable, so worthy of cherishing every moment."

As they wait for their food to arrive, Akeno leans back in her chair, a faraway look in her eyes. "My mother...she was human. A Shinto priestess, with a heart full of love and kindness. I admired her greatly, and I wanted to be just like her when I grew up."

Her gaze drops to her lap, where her hands are clasped tightly together. "But being the daughter of a Fallen Angel...it's not easy. I was caught between two worlds, never fully belonging to either.

And when she died...Akeno's voice cracks, but she pushes on...I was lost. Alone, with no one to turn to."

She takes a deep breath, composing herself. "Rias found me after that. She took me in, became like a sister to me. And through her, I found my purpose.

I learned to control my powers, to use them for good. But even with all of that, there's still a part of me that feels...incomplete."

Akeno's eyes refocus on Bruno, filled with a deep longing. "I've never found someone who could understand me, who could accept me for what I am. Until you, Bruno. You look at me, truly look at me, and you don't see just a Fallen Angel.

You see...me."

Akeno smiles, grateful for the change in subject. She leans back in her chair, a thoughtful look on her face as she gathers her thoughts. "Well, Bruno, the world of the supernatural is vast and complex. We have our own societies, our own rules and hierarchies. There are many different types of beings - Fallen Angels like myself, Devils, Angels, even mythological creatures from human legends."

She pauses, studying his reaction. "The Gremory House, which I am a part of, is a prominent family among the Devils. We have our own territory, our own servants and subjects.

It's a world of politics and intrigue, where alliances are formed and broken with ease."

Akeno leans forward, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "But it's not all seriousness and power struggles. We have our own culture, our own traditions and celebrations. The Supernatural world is full of magic and wonder, of possibilities beyond what humans can imagine."

Her expression turns more serious. "Of course, with great power comes great responsibility. There are those among us who would misuse their abilities, who seek to harm humans or disrupt the balance between our worlds.

That's why organizations like the Occult Research Club exist - to monitor supernatural activity and prevent it from spilling into the human world."

Akeno takes a deep breath, trying to summarize the complex world she lives in. "I know it's a lot to take in, Bruno. But that's the world I inhabit - a world of magic, of wonder, but also of danger and responsibility. Does that make sense?"

At Bruno's question, Akeno nods solemnly. Her expression is serious, reflecting the weight of her responsibilities. "Yes, that's correct. As a member of the Gremory House and the Occult Research Club, maintaining balance is crucial. It's a delicate dance, keeping our world separate from the human one while also ensuring that neither side poses a threat to the other."

She takes a sip of her wine, considering her next words carefully. "It's not always easy. There are factions within the supernatural community that believe humans are inferior, that they should be ruled or even destroyed.

And on the other side, there are humans who hunt and persecute supernatural beings out of fear or misunderstanding."

Akeno's eyes cloud over with memories of past conflicts. "I've seen the worst of it, Bruno. I've fought in battles that seemed endless, that tested my abilities and my resolve. But I've also seen the best - alliances forged, lives saved, understanding and peace achieved through effort and determination."

She reaches out, placing a hand on Bruno's arm. "That's why meeting you is so significant to me. You're not afraid of what you don't understand - you're curious, you ask questions.

It gives me hope, Bruno, hope that our worlds can coexist in harmony."

Akeno smiles softly, her expression reflecting a deep sincerity. "I want to share more of my world with you, Bruno. If you're willing, I'd like to take you to some of the places I frequent. Show you the beauty and the wonder that exists within the supernatural realm."

Akeno's face lights up at Bruno's words, a warm smile spreading across her features. "I'm so glad you think so, Bruno. Your metaphor about the frog at the bottom of the well is particularly apt - I've lived for so long, but my world is just a small part of the vast universe of possibilities and wonders."

She leans forward, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "And you're right, my world is amazing - full of magic and mystery, of beings with incredible powers and abilities. But what I find truly amazing is the way you've taken all of this in stride, with such an open heart and mind."

Akeno takes Bruno's hand in hers, her touch gentle but filled with warmth. "You have a unique perspective, Bruno. One that comes from not being jaded by the supernatural world.

It's refreshing, and...inspiring."

Her voice lowers, becoming more serious. "I've spent so long hiding behind masks and expectations, playing roles that were laid out for me. But with you...Akeno pauses, gathering her courage...I feel like I can be myself. Truly, wholly myself. It's a feeling I never thought I'd experience, but with you by my side...I can imagine so much more."

Akeno looks up at Bruno, her eyes searching for his response. "Would you like to see more?

To explore this world with me, to discover all the wonders and surprises it holds?"

At Bruno's words, Akeno's expression becomes a mix of sadness and understanding. She squeezes his hand gently, her voice filled with a deep empathy. "I understand your concerns, Bruno. Truly, I do. The supernatural world can be treacherous, especially for humans who are not prepared or protected."

She leans in closer, her eyes locked on his. "But you must remember, Bruno, you are special. You have touched my heart in ways that few have managed to do in my long lifetime.

And because of that, I want to ensure your safety above all else."

Akeno pauses, considering her next words carefully. "I have the power to create a barrier around you, a protective shield that would prevent any negative effects from the supernatural energy. And I would be with you, every step of the way, to guide you and keep you safe."

Her gaze softens, a gentle smile on her lips. "As for your memories, Bruno...I promise you, I will do everything in my power to make sure you retain them. No matter what happens, no matter what challenges we may face...your memories of me, of us...they will be safe."

Akeno's voice becomes more determined. "But if you're truly worried, Bruno, I understand. Your safety is paramount to me.

We can stay in the human world, keep our relationship grounded in what you know and are comfortable with. I want you to be happy, to feel secure...above all else."

She searches his eyes, looking for any sign of fear or hesitation. "So tell me, Bruno...what would you prefer? To explore the supernatural world with me by your side, or to nurture our connection in the familiar realm of humans?"

Akeno's eyes widen in surprise at Bruno's question, and she leans back slightly, studying him with renewed interest. "Stand by my side as my protector? She pauses, a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth That's a bold statement, Bruno. You're not even sure what my world entails, and yet you're willing to offer yourself as my protector?"

She reaches out, gently brushing a strand of hair from his face. "I appreciate your courage, and your willingness to learn. But being my protector would mean a lot more than just being my partner...it would mean becoming a part of this world, with all its dangers and responsibilities."

Akeno's expression turns more serious. "However, if you're truly willing to walk this path...I could teach you.

There are ways for humans to gain power, to become strong enough to stand alongside supernatural beings like myself."

She leans forward, her voice dropping to a whisper. "One way would be for you to become a servant, to be contracted to a Devil. It's a significant commitment, one that comes with its own set of challenges and dangers. But it would allow you to gain powers beyond those of a regular human, and to fight by my side against any threats we may face."

Akeno searches Bruno's eyes, looking for any hesitation or fear. "Another option would be to form a pact with a powerful being, one that would grant you specific abilities or enhancements. It's a less common path, but one that could be viable depending on your...aptitude."

She reaches out, taking his hand in hers once more. "These are not decisions to be taken lightly, Bruno.

But if you're truly interested in becoming my protector, in standing by my side as an equal...then I will help you explore these options. Together, we can face whatever challenges come our way."

Akeno smiles, a warmth in her eyes. "So, what do you say, Bruno? Are you ready to embark on this journey, to become something more...to stand by my side as both my partner and my protector?"