Shinigami's Manor. (Shinigami's Entry)

[Warning]

Kaida was not surprised at the very least at the first part. Reika was always a mystery but that part of her and the questionable road she had chosen in her life only gave her a certain reputation added to what rumors spread at the school about it. Something Kaida would keep for herself as such thing probably was trivial for what they needed to know. She still had the one question in her mind: Why did Reika involve her? Sure, Kaida knew her, for reasons she could not quite explain to Jumi and the others, but was it the only reason? Not many who dealt with Reika at the time were still around. The event of the death had created quite some troubles at the schools for the students.

For now, Kaida took care of the animals a last time, before she would leave them to Tenshi. Her absence would mean that Tenshi would be required to stay at the home for them. The school would be fine since they are prepared with other nurses, exactly in case something like this would happen. With Hikaru leaving as well, Nall and Mao did well to finish eating if they wanted to. Tenshi, for herself, barely spoke a word. What could she even say? Everything that she had heard was beyond any of her competences. It was something for Kaida to worry about... If only a special someone was there right now, maybe she could get some answers. That and maybe some cake to go along.

Nall finally stretched and looked at Jumi. "So we're getting another friend along, huh...? I wonder what kind of name is "Little Dragon" and why she is named that. I sense something familiar about her but I can't put the paw on what.", he said while tilting his head and pondering. A gaze on tenshi but not for answer surprised the nurse who only widened her eyes but otherwise stayed quiet. Nall shrugged and just eyed Jumi again. "We have to go back to that fox and hopefully, she didn't cause troubles in the temple. I wonder if Reika can find her while we're not there... Do you think they would be in danger without us? Or will that godly presence smite her?", he playfully wondered.

Kaida anyhow was soon done and went to her personal room to pick up some things, along with some medical resources. If she was going to check on Shinigami, if the possibility of that opened up, she needed some items with her. Her magic might be useful as well, in due time. After she was done and ready, she headed outside and waited a little, to make sure that everyone was ready. Best was to remain patient... If she was going to go in a car or the like with them, space should not be an issue anyhow, with Mao and Nall being so small. There was no way that they were taking a lot of space. She was not quite aware yet that Hikaru had already left and waited at the car already.

 

Shinigami, on her side, waited that Umi was done to create a gate back to her bedroom. "Then this is where we head... Your clothes will be there and I will be cleaning the mess anyway. That should not take too long. I will be wandering on my own and maybe I will pick some food. Gotta recover that lost stamina.", she teased and went through, leaving the gate open for Umi to go through when she was ready. First step for Shinigami was to clean the bed sheets. Or at the least, put them away for them to be cleaned later. Find new ones... Put them on the bed anew. An odd thing for one beast of death, as she knew how to clean things, a little thanks to Reika showing things to her.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

“Familiar.”  That was an unexpected thing to say.  Jumi would not have thought Nall would have known anything about the woman.  Granted the name was slightly unusual for a Magical Girl, if anything sounded a little more like Nall.  Kaida had not seemed to act like she knew Nall either, but it was probably not something to think too much about.  “Nice to another friend, though don’t know how often we will see her after we get back home.  Nice to have some more experienced who will be closer to Mitsuko when she is in classes though.  Some extra help if she needs it.”  Hopefully the school would be left alone, not very likely for demons to attack such a place, but that goddess was less predictable.

”But yeah, temple first, see how long we stay there.  Then take you and Shinigami to your new home.  Figure out how that will work out.  Make some more adjustments after Mitsuko is back.”  It would not be too crowded tonight.  But after Mitsuko was back some things, especially sleeping arrangements would have to be figured out.  Shinigami and Nall would be secret additions too, while there would be paperwork with Mitsuko.  An official roommate, among other things.  But that was a little in the future.  Possibly a few nights spent with just Shinigami and Nall.

She made her way out of the building, took a moment to look for Kaida and stepped over to her.  “Hikaru already went to the car.  If you are ready, I’ll go over and join him.  Up to you, if you think it will be easier to sit with us or follow in your own car.”  Better to let Kaida decide what was easiest, with first the drive to temple, then Jumi’s place, either back to the temple first or to Kaida’s place, depending on what vehicle she chose to take.  “Should not be too long, at least for the temple, just outside of town.  My place is a bit more of a drive.”  She did not live in town after all.  This was Alexandrine’s territory.  That said, it was not too long by car to get where she lived.  Thankfully Mitsuko’s commute to school after getting back would not be too painful.

 

After drying herself a bit, Umi stepped through the portal.  It was perhaps the best way to do it.  In the novelty of using such portals, she had forgotten her clothing was left behind her, not brought along as she usually did.  She took out some fresh clothes, more or the same as what she wore before and began dressing.  It would not have been a big deal to get the sheets washed herself or ask someone else in the temple for help, it was nice Shinigami was willing to do it though.  She did not yet wonder if it would be stranger to sleep in the bed tonight, after what happened, her mind was focused on the next task, as it often was.  “I will keep you company until the sheets are clean then at least, see what happens from there.  Though I doubt we will be apart long, before the others return.”  Their proper patting would be after they got everyone to Jumi’s place.  Any time separate before that might not be very long,

[Warning]

Despite the troubles so far, Nall at least felt excited to head for a new place to call home, trusting that Mitsuko would somehow be alright according to Jumi. He could not help but feel odd about something but he thought that it was probably nothing. Tenshi herself started gathering dishes and cleaning the table, letting them leave once they were ready to go, waving goodbye to them as Nall and Mao followed Jumi outside where Kaida was waiting patiently, looking at the sky a little, only pulled away of it by the Fairy coming to tell her that they were ready to go. With her implying that Kaida could also go with her own car, the Little Dragon had another thought but hesitated.

Kaida was not the kind to show off but with Shinigami being at the temple as well, perhaps coming up front about who she was rather than hide it for the last moment was not the worst of ideas. It could also allow Jumi to see who they are really dealing with. Besides, she needed to wake her magic side up. "I think I will go by the air... Think you will be able to keep up?", she asked her, with a gentle smile. Soon, Kaida stepped back and started her transformation, her hair glowing some as she changed her clothes to one of a mage of sort, an impressive staff forming in her hands. As it was almost over, a magic circle formed behind her before a sizeable dragon soon flew out of it.

As the beast landed obediently behind the mage, Nall's jaw only dropped, getting a form of confirmation about what was so familiar with her. Mao instead did not look impressed at all but her eyes did keep a close watch on that beast that was much larger than she was. Kaida stood there and eyed them. "This will be my ride... Although, I admit this will probably go faster, I will be close up there until we arrive. I can keep an eye in case anything happen or tries to follow you. Although, chances are their eyes will be on me. Please head back to the temple. Hopefully, my friend will not be a problem once there.", she told them, getting ready to climb onto her winged beast to ride it.

 

Shinigami proceeded with what she had to do. Cleaning the sheets would have been easier with Mao being able to do things many can't exactly do. Even a "goddess" of death could not do all on her own, after all. But she still did it on her own in the manor so she didn't complain. Umi dressing up was an entertaining sight, at least. "I do not mind that... But I have to take care of them all by myself. I suspect you humans have a mean to wash dirty sheets and clothes. I will bring those there and put new ones here for this bed. Then... Eating would not be too bad right now.", she said to the priestess, showing her more casual nature and that she was still a beast that can get hungry.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

Well, that was something.  Jumi had not quite expected to see anything like today, and she had had a share of sights over the previous days.  It would certainly make an easy ride for her.  Though she wondered how it was going to work when they made their way to her place.  Use the dragon as a distraction to keep eyes off Shinigami?  Could work outside, though there was still the trick of moving her around in the building.

”Looks like you can get a better flight than the sorts I am used to.  Hikaru will do his best to go fast enough to keep up and lead the way.  But going like that, you could find the temple on your own.  Probably sticks out in those woods, when seeing it from above.”  If she wanted to at least, but looked like she would be keeping close enough to not get there a head of time.  “I’ll go let Hikaru know how you are coming.  I’m sure it won’t be an issue at the temple, with you coming with us.”  Jumi turned and began walking to Hikaru’s car.  Coming along with him, she could not imagine Kaida’s ride being an issue, though if she she showed up alone and by surprise it sure would have caught the temple off guard.

 

”Yes, the details vary, but we have our ways of washing such things.  I will lead you there first.”  Umi was not going to bother Shinigami with descriptions of all the different ways such things could be washed, with or without machine and the variations in the machines.  Shinigami would probably see at least several variations over time.  For now, after finishing dressing, she opened the door, let Shinigami gather things and led her down.  “It is in the general direction of the dining area, but a few rooms away.”  Down the stairs, through the halls, but taking a different turn, to the laundry room, with several rows of machines.  “People living by themselves, or with just one smaller family do not need so much, but this room is shared by all of us.”  She explained, opening one of the machines so Shinigami could put stuff in.

[Warning]

Kaida nodded to Jumi, giving her a gentle smile. "I will probably not go too fast. I doubt that the head priest would appreciate it. However, if I find it, I will stay above. Hopefully, it will not attract any unwanted or concerned attention. I will be waiting until you arrive... Staying in the air will not be a problem. If I see anything, I will lure any follower away. Be safe for now.", she said to them as she mounted it, waiting that Jumi would safely be away before she made the beast take off. Nall would simply stay quiet and follow Jumi wherever instead, along with Mao doing the same. Only when they arrived at the car and they went inside, did Nall watch Kaida fly off to the sky above.

"So, she has a dragon... I almost thought she would transform as one. I knew something felt suspicious about her. Althena would probably like to hear about it. She has dragon friends too and the cutest one is right here.", he finally said, feeling a little proud of the last part, whether he was speaking the truth or not. Though, something of a concern suddenly seemed to trouble him while his expression changed from his playful one to something a little more serious. "Jumi... Maybe I'm wrong but I can feel something happening. I can feel Althena's magic normally but something feels different. I don't like it...", Nall expressed his concerns while Mao gazed at him but sat quietly.

 

Shinigami made sure that she had her own clothes on before she left the room, at least for the sake of a bit of decency. She was curious to find out what means they had. Only carrying the sheets she had undone now, she followed Umi down the hall. She eyed the surrounding but otherwise remained close until they reached the room itself. "Hmm... These? More devices. Humans truly are ingenious, aren't they? Everywhere I look, you always have these machines doing things for you.", she remarked, stepping closer and looking at the one machine. She then put the sheets through the opening then stepped back. "At least you get things done... Now what?", Shinigami then asked, wondering how Umi would start this thing. The sooner they did, the sooner that their mess was going away so they could focus on eating and the rest of the day afterwards.

Edited December 21, 2025 by Warning

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

“Funny, I was going to say the same thing.”  Jumi remarked, with an amused smile, to the suggestion that Kaida might have transformed into a dragon.  Would have been unusual, but not completely impossible.  Some Magical Girls or Knights did appear somewhat inhuman after transforming, but usually not to that extent, and usually when it happened there was a good chance their father or grandfather was a demon who forced himself on a Magical Girl.  “If she had, that might have explained what you thought was familiar, you might have known her.”  She also had a suspicion it was occasional possible for certain non-humans to take human disguise.  A Guardian Beast could have something like a dragon’s body, but be able to transform into human form at times.  Kaida appeared to be a human though, if she was capable of such transformation she probably would have done it.

What he said after that was a little more concerning.  But whether she could do anything about it, depended on exactly what Nall meant.  “Do you mean, in general, some connection you have to her or where she lives…?”  If it was that, it was maybe something to be concerned about, but not something she could do much about, might need help from the godly side at the Temple.  See if Maxim could do anything, at least look into it.  “…Or do you mean Mitsuko specifically?”  That would be more troubling, but something she might be a little more capable of handling.  She glanced to Mao.  “…Someone told me she would give updates on Mitsuko, if needed…”.  She was not saying it to Mao specifically, not upset at her, but was not sure if Reika was listening through Mao.  Whatever else might happen, whether Reika made herself an enemy or not, Jumi would like to believe what was said earlier.  That they would be completely honest with each other, no lies or deception between them.   That if there was something that needed to be said about Mitsuko, Reika would tell her.  Of course, if Reika was distracted by something sudden with Mitsuko that needed her attention, Jumi would accept that and be fine waiting a little to hear about it.  “Either ay, it is probably best to get back to the temple first.  See what we need to do from there.”  She began walking, a little fast to Hikaru’s car.

“We all have our skills.  It is impressive what some of us have come up with.”  Umi did not take credit for what a small number had accomplished over the years.  But it was nice Shinigami found it impressive.  “The first step does not take long to start, but it takes some time to wash.  You may or may not still be here by the time it finishes.”  She let Shinigami watch as everything as put in, she added detergent they closed it and pressed the buttons to get the setting she wanted and started it.  “There is nothing else to in this room for now.  It would probably be the best time to get your food then see how long it takes the others to be back.”9

 

[Warning]

Nall was not sure about what he felt with Kaida but with her summoning a dragon, it was clear that a link was confirmed. Did he know her personally, though? Not as far as he knew. He didn't know many if any humans of this era but her feeling familiar at least made some sense now. What he felt about Althena however should probably be better explained. "I can feel Althena's magic. You could say that I do have a connection with her. But... Something feels odd and I can't just communicate with her as I like. I was sent to keep Mitsuko safe. Althena will let me know if she needs to say anything. Odin would not do anything to her, though. It would cause a lot of chaos if he did.", he explained, positive but still worried.

Normally, he would be able to feel Mitsuko as well but since last time he tried, he could not do much to find her. "I still can't feel Mitsuko either but I am sure that something is going on. Whatever is going on, I don't like that feeling.", he told her but looked at Mao when Jumi glanced to her. Mao only eyed them both. "My mistress did not tell me anything about her... She only told me to stay with you.", she precised, unsure of what Jumi expected there, not knowing what she thought for Reika, whether she indeed was or not listening through her. Her expression remained otherwise calm and neutral as she sat still, just waiting. Nall however would agree with Jumi and wait to get to the temple and see what happens.

 

Shinigami watched the priestess do her human thing with the machine and stepped back, waiting for her to be done. "So thing thing will do its, uh... thing, for a while. Good enough for me. I don't plan to stay here to watch it finish anyway.", the fox said, with a bit of amusement in her voice. As for what was next, it was time to get out there and get some food while waiting for the other to come back. In fact, they were taking a while, wherever they had gone. Perhaps they found something... Hopefully not troubles. "Right, food. Good... I'll be taking a look around as well, then. I'll see you around. If there's a need to deal with some troubles, come find me.", Shinigami warned Umi before leaving the room, first to go eat.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

“Don’t worry about it.  I’m reminding her to say something, if something important happens.  Assuming she’s listening.”  Jumi addressed Mao’s point first, clarifying that was for Reika.  That was the easier and quicker thing to address.  Nall’s concerns were more troublesome, no easy way to check on.  “Concerns just keep piling up.  Well, a Magical Girl’s life is rarely easy.”  She was not shrugging it over, but she was not going to panic about it either.  Especially when they still did not know exactly what was going on.  Hopefully it was nothing too problematic.  “No easy way to check on it, I suppose?”  No communication, but she had no idea how easy it was for Nall to go to and from such a place.

There might not be an options there other than wait and see what happened, or maybe pray for some insight from Maxim, whether or not to do that could be decided at the temple.  For now, she had reached the car.  She got into the front seat and waited for Nall and Mao to enter.  “Kaida is ready to follow us, but she has chosen a pretty unique form of transportation, see if you see it from the car, or after we reach the temple.”  She updated Hikaru, who seemed surprised but did not ask any questions just yet, as he started to drive.

[Warning]

Mao looked confused at first but simply nodded, still making hard to tell if Reika could hear this or not. She would head to the car while Nall followed Jumi. "Althena would be the one to check on me, not the opposite. Any communication would need the sword but Mitsuko had it with her. Reika couldn't have...", he started saying, wondering how much the reaper knew about Mitsuko and her connection to the goddess. "I am starting to think that it was not a good idea to leave her in her hands... That nasty girl would be a worse problem than Lenneth if she found a way to use that sword.", he commented, sighing before he entered the car, both then sitting on the back seat together.

As they started going, Kaida had already taken to the air while the two pets remained quiet or at least for a moment. Mao appeared to look through the window as they moved but soon moved her little butt closer to the door while Nall looked at her with curiosity, wondering why she moved away from him. The answer was given not long afterwards as magic energy formed between him and her, pushing him to move away as well. As sudden as it came, Reika appeared on the car's back seat with an usual pleased smile while her eyes focused mainly on the front passengers. "Did I hear that you wanted to talk to me? Something on your mind?", she asked as Nall only stared in fear.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

“I was not thrilled leaving Mitsuko with her myself, but Shinigami seemed to trust her enough, and she knows Reika better than any of us.”  Jumi was trying to give Reika the benefit of the doubt, but she could only wait to see if Reika lived up to her word or not.  If Reika was right that she would be happy with the Mitsuko she saw after it was over.  “I should have a chance to get updates soon, maybe or maybe not tonight.  I don’t know if I will see Mitsuko herself, but if I do, I will see if I see the sword on or around her.”  Was it risky or not to say this, with the uncertainty over whether Reika was listening or not?  She could only hope that whatever happened later, Reika would not be their enemy at least until Mitsuko was healed.  They were not in the greatest position to do much else.

…or so she thought, but it looked like the question of whether they were being listened to was answered.  She was not entirely surprised to see Reika appear.  Hikaru was a little more surprised, glancing at her through the rear view mirror, but otherwise focusing on the driving, and letting Jumi do the talking, maybe Nall if he wanted to join in.  “If you heard everything we’ve been saying, you already know.”  Of course it was possible she was only half listening, just noticed she was being talked about.  For the moment she was somewhat willing to give the benefit of the doubt.

”On the way back from that little errand you sent me on, learning about you.”  She kept her thoughts on what she learned about Reika to herself for now.  “Since you aren’t saying anything about it, I’m assuming you don’t have any significant updates about Mitsuko.”  She would be disappointed at least, if there were and Reika did not say it on her own.  But for now, there was no hostility or suspicion in the voice, just a reminder.  A confirmation, she’sstill hoped for at least complete honesty between the two of them. “Your work is not having unexpected results unrelated to Mitsuko?”  She would wait a moment to ask about the sword, a more general question first.  There was a chance Reika was not intentionally up to anything, but just the way she was doing things was having unintended side effects, causing what was troubling Nall.

[Warning]

Reika did not look too surprised to be where she was, in a moving car. She even sat pretty comfortably while Mao was near her but focused on the outside view rather than whatever happened in the car. Though the implication that she may have listened made her smile, "I might have or not... Worried about the girl, aren't you? Or... something else? You wanted me to say something about her so here I am... Updates, hm? I was taking good care of her.", Reika said playfully but not in any creepy way out of line. "Oh right, you DID find about me, I am guessing. Then maybe you know how all of this started... We are getting close to the finale. I had fun, though.", she added, eyeing Jumi.

Whatever she meant, Reika soon brought up and apple. "This is for you... Nothing too odd about this one but it will make you nap. If you want to see Mitsuko... To answer you, I don't see what you mean by unexpected results. Especially, some unrelated to Mitsuko? She was sleeping, at least last time I've checked... It might not be the case, soon... The good thing is I do not have to be nearby when she wakes up. Nothing can get to her where she is so I would not worry about that. There's much I need to say but... That will be for another time. Even Shinigami had to be lied to. I'd feel bad if it wasn't of you making her choose you. Maybe you can give her a better life.", she commented.

Even for Reika, something in her voice seemed to bother her. Mao kept her completely unfazed attitude as she observed the outside world without ever looking back at Reika once or anyone else but Nall could not shake off that feeling as he stared at Reika just being vague, probably on purpose. At least the reaper did not appear to be threatening or show any hostility. Even if he wanted to say something, he was not sure where to begin and speaking to her about Althena did not seem to be the wisest thing ever. It did not take long before Reika would notice his presence and try to pet him, doing so for Mao as well. Except Nall only looked more concerned, unsure to fight it back.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

Once again, not a straight answer.  Just like how she was sent here instead of Reika just answering who she was.  Though that did pass some time.  Meeting Kaida also was at least a potential for someone else who might be able to help at times.  So maybe it was for the better.  “I know as much as Kaida can tell about you at least.  As for Mitsuko, I’m trying to take your word.”  Jumi was not as worried about that as Nall was, though she would be happy when Mitsuko was finally healed.  Her concern was more about what Nall was concerned about, which hopefully had nothing to do with Mitsuko, and also hopefully was not anything too dangerous.  But if it did not have anything to do with Mitsuko, Reika was not likely to know anything about it.

”Unfortunately you probably don’t know anything about what is actually concerning us, would hope you already know what it is and would be telling us about it if you did.”  And then there was another apple, and words that could not really be ignored.  “Can’t ever just spit things out can you?  Or do you think that time is the best to tell it?”  Was that going to happen now, if she took a bite, or was Reika still waiting for a certain time.  “I keep my word, what I learned won’t change that.”  Perhaps an answer to Reika saying she did not feel bad about something because of her and Shinigami.  Jumi was still willing to let Reika vent, take things out on her.  Her thoughts about Reika were more complicated now, but she still intended to go through it.  She could endure it.  Part of it felt symbolic too.  She and Mitsuko were technically united with Shinigami by this woman.  Mitsuko and Shinigami both had their experiences with her, even if it was short for Mitsuko.  Part of her felt she should at least once experience something with Reika, though what that experience was would be up to Reika.  It might be more pain than pleasure, but she would go through whatever was offered.

Were these things something she wanted to gloat about while punishing her?  Or wanted to wait until Mitsuko was healed for one reason or another?  She glanced to Hikaru, then in the mirror to Nall.  “Don’t worry about me. I’m going to go check on Mitsuko.  Up to Reika there if she wants to spell things out or take care of last business between us now or later.”  The details of the punishment session of course were a secret between her and Reika, Jumi assumed even Mao did not know.  Since she did not consider herself in danger, she would not say more about it.  She might or might not tell Mitsuko or Shinigami after it was over.  Of course she did not know if it was going to happen now, or later.  But she prepared herself, just in case.  At the very least she would check on Mitsuko and see if the sword was anywhere in sight.  Taking a breath, she took the apple to her mouth bit into it.  At least Nall probably did not have to worry about Reika petting him now.

[Warning]

Reika was having a little too much fun listening to Jumi rambling about her methods and other things. She was not really concerned with their concerns. Her plan was in motion. Sharing some of her own life to them only felt natural. Even Kaida however did not know everything. "This is more fun this way, Jumi... Don't worry, it's not time for fun yet. Mitsuko is waiting... I am sure that this man will take good care of your body meanwhile.", the reaper commented, with a smirk toward Hikaru. Taking a good look at Nall, she wondered if that she should do a little more for that furball. At least, Mao did not seem bothered by being with them so far. Leaving her a little longer was fine.

For now, Reika waited for Jumi to take the bite and most likely fall in a quick nap but before it went to waste, she made sure to pick the apple. "Well, no worries for her now. She truly will only nap for a moment. Her mind will be elsewhere but she should not take too long. Either way, she will not be in danger.", she told the priest, mainly. Then, she turned to Nall. "Your turn... You can choose to not go along with this but if you do, you will find Mitsuko. I have no need for your soul, I am just doing this out of kindness. I understand that you're somewhat connected to her.", she said to him, watching his reaction as he stared at the apple. "It's safe, I would not kill you here.", she said.

Her words did not sound threatening but that did not reassure Nall much. Still, she was right... If Jumi was right about the temple AND Hikaru, it would be a bad move to try to do anything to him and Jumi right now. The problem was more that Reika did not come off as hostile like an enemy yet felt like one in some way. A magical girl with no good intentions. But if Jumi was somewhere, he had to follow if he was given the chance. Just in case. For Mitsuko as well. Approaching slowly, he looked at the apple offered to him then took a bite as well. At the very least, it tasted fresh. It felt like an apple, in all appearances. But his mind soon felt hazy, sleepy before he just fell asleep.

"Good... Now we can relax on the way back.", Reika finally said, sitting back casually on her seat. Jumi and Nall on their side would wake in a familiar place, at least to Jumi, where they could find the large glass tube that Mitsuko was inside. All seemed normal for a moment before the system started behaving differently, showing some alerts. The calm water of the tube finally found some disturbance from movements inside as Mitsuko opened her eyes slowly, feeling confused by where she was. She could breathe, thankfully, but everything else felt out of place. As if by magic, the reaper appeared behind them from the corridor that lead there, before she stopped near the two.

"I'm not really here so listen... She can't hear this just yet. In fact, she can't see you right now.", Reika preemptively said, looking in their vague direction. "What you see here is what I intended for you to see. She can't hear me so let's be brief... I might have lied about Mitsuko. If I did want to hurt her, I'd have done so but my feisty beasts are soft enough to treat even the most fragile girl in the best way. I mean, even Shinigami did not harm her, did she?", she said and winked, guessing what happened between them before. "I noticed the power of Mitsuko and I'm not the only one, it seems. That girl that interfered before is no magical girl... What god did you anger?", she asked.

Expecting no answer from her perspective, Reika continued, "Either way, I had to try one of my experiences on her. Even I don't know the results but I feel like it will benefit you. As Death, I should not tilt the balance but I am sorry, I simply can't resist... I could have punished you for the pain that you gave me last time but this will have to wait... Your princess is waiting.", she said and walked close to the tube before she slammed the button on it with her palm. Soon the water started draining slowly until the opening was safe to be opened, freeing the girl inside, who panicked a little more while her body ejected the fluids that had penetrated inside her from all of holes but one.

Reika hurried and removed the mask thing that allowed her to breath, letting her cough as she held her close. "Good morning... You were exhausted but I fixed that for you.", she told the girl who did not seem to notice Jumi or Nall, only the reaper. "W-where am I...? W-why does my body feel...", the valkyrie started but Reika smiled. "Let it all out. You will feel good soon. As for where you are...", she said, glancing a bit toward Jumi, "You're at my home. The sealed basement. I had to take measures to restore your strength. I hope the little game did not feel too wrong for you.", she told her, referring to what they felt before. Mitsuko barely remembered but still blushed a bit.

"I... No, I-I enjoyed it. Thank you... I think... But did Shinigami not destroy your home?", Mitsuko asked curiously. "Oh but she did... But I have my ways. Feel better yet?", Reika then asked in return. The valkyrie nodded slowly, "I do, But where-", she started but Reika interrupted, "Not here. I had to bring you alone... Shinigami knows. For now, on your feet... You're still human and you have to eat to regain strength.", the reaper helped her up, not making her nudity weird but also not doing anything to cover her. "In fact, I will bring you to where you can clean up first. A meal will be set for you. I'll have to keep an eye on you for a few days, to make sure you're fine.", she told her.

Mitsuko was not sure what was happening but she did feel better. Being naked seemed like the last thing to worry about right now. Something about the reaper felt oddly calming. She could only go along with what she was suggested. A proper shower after being plunged in this invasive water sounded right. Surely Jumi and the others were safe. Her only concern was whether she worried them or not. Reika vaguely turned toward Jumi's general direction as she walked away with the girl. "We will see your friends soon... I think they will be glad to see you.", she said, with a grin that Mitsuko did not take notice of, still feeling wobbly on her feet but slowly getting used to walk.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

Jumi was left uncertain with that wording, she was sure Reika intended to have fun when the time came.  But it remained to be seen if Reika intended for it to be fun for anyone else who was not a masochist.  She was not going to bother asking for details, she suspected Reika would say something like the surprise was part of the fun.  She would just wait and find out when the time came.  Besides, the apple’s magic prevented her from saying anything else, until she found herself back in that room.

From what Reika said, she was not positive if this was Mitsuko in the moment, or a flashback of sorts, just to see her as part of the healing.  “I barely know more than you about that one, it is Mitsuko and maybe Nall she is after.”  She answered questions about the god in question first.  Not something she considered herself enough of an expert on to answer.  As for the not intending to hurt her.  “Like I said, I’m trying to take your word on that, though I will reserve final judgement until it is all over.”  What she learned from Kaida had an influence on her thoughts of Reika, but in the end it would be Reika herself who determined Jumi’s final opinion of her, good or bad.  She had a feeling it would end more ‘complicated’ as Shinigami described her own feelings towards Reika, but it might end either more positively or negatively compared to Shinigami’s feelings.

She was not thrilled to hear about lies, but she bit her tongue about pointing out again, she hoped they were at a point of honesty at least.  It was more important to check on Mitsuko than get in another argument with Reika, she was trying to be better than the first few times they talked.  “Do whatever you need to when the time comes, whether tonight or some other time.”  She reasserted she was not backing away from that, punishment or fun.  Though now was not the time to explain her reasoning.  Not a lie or omission, just waiting until later to admit it, for the time that would be just the two of them.  She did not know if Reika would mock her for it, or like it, she would find out later.

Then she watched Reika pull out Mitsuko, wake her up.  If she was awake, did that mean the healing was closer to done than expected?  Maybe Reika could answer that in a little while.  It now appeared more likely to be the present, but Mitsuko seemed only aware of Reika.  Maybe this was a way to learn more.  She was interested in what Mitsuko thought and felt about the whole thing.  She did not seem upset.  Of course that was another influence on the scales inside her.  If the two of them continued to positively interact it would lean Jumi to wanting to have at least one experience with Reika, something else she Mitsuko and Shinigami could share.   She knew the risks, had no intention of joining Death or giving Reika her soul, but her own complicated thoughts towards Reika did not leave her with absolutely no desire.  She expected it to be a one time thing though, unless Reika was pulled away from her past and death.

”We should probably follow.  See as much as we can of Mitsuko.”  She told Nall as her eyes roamed the room, and Mitsuko’s lovely naked body.  Though Reika answered one question.  At least a few more days.  “Do you see or sense the sword?”  She asked Nall, while Reika was still focused on Reika, prepared to follow, if she could, when the two left the room.  She was not sure just how long Reika intended to let them watch, if it would end as they left the room, or she would let them see a little more.

 

[Warning]

Reika did not seem to react or do much about what Jumi said, if she even heard. If she did listen, it might or not be from this one the fairy saw. Following did not seem like a bad idea but Jumi's question troubled Nall a bit. "I can't sense anything from here... Not even Mitsuko or that woman, It's like they're not even here... Sorry, I can't tell if she has it or not.", Nall said, looking depressed as he tried to find answers as well but nothing in this place really gave any. Whatever magic was in this place, it either did not allow him to sense anything or there was not anything to sense at all, but being his first experience joining Jumi, it did creep him out a little. He did not like this feeling, anyhow.

After the two left and Jumi decided to follow, they would find the exit to the ground floor a hallway further; A recognizable room that used to be sealed before. Reika helped Mitsuko walk around to the stairs bringing to the second floor. "I think you know where the baths and showers are already, don't you? You can probably recognize the place. Think you can make it there?", the reaper asked Mitsuko who took a good look around then nodded to her. "It's... It's the same. Yes, I will be fine, thank you.", she replied, a little confused but not asking much about why things were like this. She was not sure yet what to expect with and from Reika. All she knew now was that she woke up there.

Nall as well noticed that this place looked almost perfectly the same, including the frames, furniture and everything else. "We saw that fox destroy this place with a loud bang, didn't we? Does she own many same places or what? She must be rich. Or did she really bring it back?", the small creature questioned. Reika herself did not appear to hear him, only watching Mitsuko walk on her own to the bathroom before the reaper headed back down to the kitchen. "What is she planning anyway? Whatever she is doing, she can't be doing this to be good. She played nasty with Shinigami and she was the reason we escaped.", he commented, still clearly not liking or trusting the reaper very much.

The dream did not seem to stop there or allow them to go after one other, only shifting back to what appeared to be a somewhat larger kitchen than what they might remember. Reika was there and humming as she was preparing something. A reaper in unusual good mood with a little dose of her insanity. Mitsuko soon walked in, eyed around then headed to Reika who turned to her as she she heard her. "There you are... Better, isn't it? Now for the main course. Although maybe I should be fair with you.", she said and made her own clothes vanish so she could be as naked as her guest. While Mitsuko inevitably blushed with surprise, Nall cringed slightly, wondering why she did this way.

"Nothing wrong with this I hope...", Reika commented while getting a plate filled with the valkyrie before bringing it to a table and setting it down. Before Mitsuko could get to it, the reaper went to her and behind, embracing her. "How do you feel? I mean, how does your body feel? Nothing out of place?", she asked curiously as Mitsuko tried to remain calm. "N-no, I don't think so. Am I alright? You said I had to stay for a few days... You're not playing with me, are you?", she asked, just making sure. "Don't worry about that. I need to make sure that you're stable... I don't intend to do anything to you. Rest, wander, eat... I'll be around. Soon, you'll see them again.", the reaper responded.

Nall was not quite sure what her deal was and not being able to detect anything did not help. Plus, it's like the two of them were not really there. Mitsuko could not see or hear them, even if they shouted for her. Seeing Mitsuko just go along with her plan and sit down to eat reassured him somewhat that she was alive and "well" but her whereabouts were unknown. Would Reika really just return her and be done? He was not really trusting any of it. Jumi however seemed to give her more leeway. "Do you think she says the truth? That Mitsuko is okay? If she is lying to her, I will bite her face. She did nothing but hurt everyone.", he snarled, being a little upset that he felt a bit powerless.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

“…Not too surprising, we are only sort of here, after all…”. Jumi said with a sigh, her eyes still roaming.  “We can continue to keep an eye out for it at least…though I still wonder if it was absorbed into Mitsuko’s body earlier.”  It was the easiest answer, if Reika did not move it.  It was maybe a cause or partial cause of the changes Reika hinted at maybe?  All they could do was follow around, look around as they did.  “Mitsuko can’t see or hear us, can’t tell if Reika can or can’t right now either.  I’m mostly interested in hearing as much as we can from Mitsuko.  See how she is doing what she feels about this.  See how those two interact.”  Jumi was going to juggle multiple influences in her opinion of Reika, Nall of course, but Kaida’s information influenced it, Shinigami and Mitsuko’s opinions of the woman were especially important, all that mixed with what happened between the two of them in private later.

As they stepped out of the room, in someways it reminded her of the dream, except without all the undead running around.  “It is strange, I have to wonder if Shinigami understands.  That woman’s power, what she is and is not capable of, are hard to predict.  Kind of like Diamond, in the variety of it.”  She had no idea if this house was a creation of hers or not…or… “Maybe it was Shinigami that lived in a copy of this place, made through her power…”.  With how it was destroyed, the end of Shinigami’s relics, she could not rule it out.  “Hopefully it is nicer outside than what Reika showed me in the dream where I met her.”  

Reika was doing a good job, treating Mitsuko nicely enough, inching the scales a bit towards Jumi desiring the later private meeting between the two.  Was it the real Reika, or a trick?  Jumi was not being too naive, but as a proper Magical Girl, hoped Reika was not completely twisted, capable of showing genuine warmth at least to the right people, at the right time.  She would give Reika the chance to prove it one way or the other.  “…She is hard to figure out.  I’m not letting my guard down completely, but I’m willing to watch.  Hopefully this is what she really feels.  She has done very unpleasant things, may continue to do so, as long as she is connected to ‘Death’, but I’m going to give her a chance to prove this is how she really feels, not an act.  She must know neither Shinigami or I will accept it if she does anything to hurt Shinigami.  I truly believe she does not want Shinigami to hate her, at least.  What she thinks about Mitsuko is harder to guess.”  There would be consequences if her trust was betrayed, but Jumi would try to trust her as long as she behaved.  But her eyes were mostly on Mitsuko, curious how she would continue to interact with Reika.  Whether the earlier experience, and how they were interacting now would lead to positive responses or not.

[Warning]

Nall didn't like that idea or what it might ultimately do if that was what had happened to Mitsuko. Althena's power was given through that sword. The worst was that there was no way to tell with the way Reika had set this upon them. Was this part of her plan? Right now, he wanted to keep watching despite the oddity of it although not surprising considering what Shinigami wanted out of both girls. Reika wanted him to see Mitsuko as well, probably because she knew he was worried but still. Another point that Jumi had made that made him curious was exactly how much did the dumb fox know about her "mistress" if she had lied to even her? At least her birth seemed genuine.

The idea that Shinigami lived in the illusion or magic of Reika also made sense to Nall, if she was capable of creating such home or copies at will. One home gone, only to make another, if Jumi was right about this. He barely remembered the outside, though. According to the windows, the outside did not look too bad at least. The night time made it hard to tell but the sky was however calm and starry. Honestly, Nall couldn't really understand how this world or whatever worked. If it was created by Reika then could she also create weather? Or was it an illusion? "I don't think I want to go outside... Mitsuko looks alright, though. Even with her being a big meanie before.", he told Jumi.

Mitsuko was eating, did not look too worried about Reika. Even if she did not see or hear about who Reika was, she was still fully aware of what she had done, what she was, as far as she knew, but despite that, something about the reaper now, didn't alert her too much. The said reaper was awfully affectionate right now, almost borderline romantic with them being naked and her hugging Mitsuko from behind. "So, you will have your own room for the days you will be here. I think you know which already. Make yourself comfortable.", she told the girl. Mitsuko looked back a bit and nodded. "I will. Still, you're acting odd compared to what you've done before.", she then remarked.

Reika gave a sigh, feeling irked but kept her composure. "Your friends expect you back in one piece... I could not leave you hungry or hurt. Maybe a little of a thank you for entertaining me before as well. No hesitation to play around with death. In fact, you already showed your interest in Shinigami, I almost envy her... Nevermind that. Jumi is a lucky woman but she is about to find just how lucky she really is. You really do not feel anything, do you?", she asked, holding the girl close. Mitsuko blinked, looked at herself but shook her head. "Should I? You're starting to worry me.", she replied. Reika smirked, "You have been reborn inside that pod. Renewed... You're fine.", she told her.

Mitsuko was left speechless, unsure what she was meaning. Now that she was reminded, the pod did feel like she was floating in a womb but surely it was not what Reika had meant. After all, she did not feel different. Renewed was an interesting word, however. Mitsuko could not help but look at herself, touch herself a little and even feel her breasts but nothing felt out of place. Maybe it was nothing but a very efficient recovery, she did feel better than ever. "Well... I do feel better. I am glad for that... It's like I slept for days.", the valkyrie said, only getting Reika to nod. "Mhm. But for now, finish eating. Report to me if anything feels wrong." She said, before she left her to her food.

Nall, hearing the words for the first time that were first spoken to Jumi, did not like the sound of that too much. What crazy experience was Reika doing on Mitsuko? All he thought about doing was bite her face off anyway. He did not trust her but seeing Reika leave Mitsuko alone did not change anything for the valkyrie. She still did not look alarmed or worried. No signs of her wanting to escape. If anything, she did think of Jumi and Shinigami, wondering how the two were faring in her absence. Them and Nall but she could not notice any of them right now. She was currently all alone and the only person she could turn to if she needed anything was Reika until she was back.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

Jumi did not really care what Reika did, as long as she did not hurt or try to manipulate Mitsuko.  She could not ignore the hint of how Reika was treating Mitsuko, but it was not enough to make upset or jealous, or anything, as long as Mitsuko was not uncomfortable with it.  Mitsuko at first glance at least seemed to have an attitude not completely unlike her own, not hostile, but not cautious.  It was hard to tell if Reika would try to push it further, either because of Mitsuko herself or maybe for the audience Mitsuko was unaware of.  Was Mitsuko thinking like her, one time only, or had enough of Jumi rubbed off on her that she might be cautiously receptive to the woman she already crossed the line with?  It was possible of course that Reika might be tempted but hold back because Mitsuko was healing.  Both naked like that, it was hard to predict what might happen, what Reika wanted, how receptive Mitsuko was.  Jumi just watched though, not uneasy but not excited either, mostly just curious.

”She isn’t a good person, by her own admission. but she is human.  Not as depraved as demons.  Her loyalties do make me wonder whether or not we will have to fight in the future, but for the moment at least, I’m not too worried how she will treat Mitsuko.  But I’m not sure what she is aiming for at the moment.”  She shrugged “She might just be trying to comfort Mitsuko, or feel comfortable with them both being naked.  Would not get nervous about her motives there…”  Try to keep Nall from getting nervous about seeing something he did not want to, unless a direct move was made.

”Mitsuko has not asked about the sword yet either.  Maybe we will get a hint of whether she has an idea of what happend, or just has not thought of it yet.”  IF it had been drawn into her body, she might have felt it, even with all the other stuff going on.  Or maybe she knew something she did no one else noticed at the time.

Or maybe not, Reika left Mitsuko to eat, it was hard to tell if they were nearing the end or not, if they would see much more of Mitsuko or not, or what else Reika and Mitsuko would do in the house over the next few days.  But a different statement stuck with her.  “Not sure how to feel about her saying I’m lucky…she isn’t exactly happy about how me and Shinigami have got closer.  But after last night, I’m hoping we resolved that enough not to be a source of fighting.”  The talk last night seemed constructive, of course their later meeting, punishment, pleasure or both would hopefully burn off as much resentment as possible.

’Invisible’ as she was, she walked up closer to Mitsuko.  She did not attempt to touch her, but looked her over.  Just to be close to her.  Also looking for any hint of visible changes.  Any hint of the surprise Reika hinted at, though she did not expect to see anything too obvious.

[Warning]

Nall sighed from hearing it from Jumi. He knew that Reika was not a good person, he felt it in his guts. Her not being a demon however did show some of whatever was left of her human nature. Reika was clearly plotting something but what, that was hard to say. Mitsuko did not seem to be too bothered by it. Or rather, she was oblivious to it. At least Nall was explained a bit about why the both were naked, even if that didn't explain much about why they appear to be naked often. He guessed it was better not to question humans in this case. He would be a hypocrite if he said that there was not something attractive to it. Best was not to think too much about Shinigami's time.

The topic going about the sword made Nall shift his mind to something more serious. As Mitsuko was naked, there was no sign of the sword. No pendant on her neck or nothing close. It was very possible to simply hide it magically but unfortunately, he did not feel anything at all in this place. "I don't remember seeing the sword anywhere, where she woke up... Reika better not have stolen it.", he said in an annoyed manner. At least Reika felt confident that Mitsuko would not go anywhere enough that she left her alone without hesitation. Where she went was hard to say and rules of that world were hard to define. Maybe there was a way to know. Nall took off, trying to follow.

On the side of Mitsuko, the valkyrie was completely naked to Jumi. The dream was real enough that she was seen like she was there, with nothing to hide from her. If she inspected her body close enough, she might notice very subtle details of flawlessness to it. Any damage repaired, any curves perfectly whole, every inches of her body seamless like she never aged. Granted, Mitsuko was herself young in her adulthood so these details may be less apparent. Otherwise, her body did not change in shape or size. A moment later, Mitsuko looked up like she felt something close, her blue eyes scanning the room before she concluded that she was alone, returning to finish eating.

Edited December 30, 2025 by Warning

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

“We may not get another update about Mitsuko and what she gets up to her until we hear it from herself after it is over.”  If the two of them went any further, it might be kept secret, like the time Jumi would eventually have with Reika.  She guessed it was mostly up to if Reika wanted to show off.  Jumi was not thinking much about it at the moment, but if she was given a show, it would be hard to not watch Mitsuko have a good time.  She trusted Mitsuko though.  Neither of them were going to go too far with Reika, as long as she clung to her ways and loyalties.  A balancing act, don’t push her away too hard, but don’t get too close either.  Encourage Reika’s warmer side, but don’t let it lead them into darkness.

She had not known Mitsuko long, but had admired her body plenty.  A few times she thought she might have seen something different, that she might have managed to become even more beautiful, but she did not want to jump to conclusions on what it meant.  “She admitted she has not told us everything yet…not thrilled about that.  But me and her are going to have at least one more good talk before Mitsuko is back, I suspect she intends to tell me those things then.  If she did something with the sword, good chance we will find out then.”

She smiled as Mitsuko turned, almost noticing her it seems.  “So close to seeing me.  I’d be half tempted to touch her, but might as well not offend our host.  I’d like to stay as long as she intends us to.  See as much as we can.”  It would be a few days otherwise, she could not be blamed for wanting to spend a little more time with Mitsuko, see whatever Reika intended to show of their interactions.

[Warning]

Nall would still try his paw at finding out how far he can make it. IF Reika even can be followed in this place. Mitsuko on the other hand kept eating until she was done and despite her odd action of before, she did not seem to hear Jumi speak. After she was done, she then got up, gave herself a good stretch while thinking that nobody else was around to see her like this anyway then went to discard her dish properly. Stepping to walk away, Mitsuko soon stopped again, looking in the general direction of Jumi and bit her lip. Something seemingly troubled her even if she should not see anyone but Reika. A feeling maybe, as she tried to see something that was not really there.

The kitchen was otherwise empty of sounds. Not even water dripping could be heard. Holding her own head, Mitsuko started wondering if she was not losing it but she just had woken up from a long sleep in a water chamber... For how long had she slept? Reika had not made THAT clear. What did happen during that time? The valkyrie went on to leave as Nall came back quickly to report his finding but the close encounter made Mitsuko slow down and hesitate again, blinking as she looked around once more. "Reika disappeared... That woman is taunting us with her magic. At the same time, this place is not real, right?", Nall proceeded to ask Jumi while Mitsuko walked away.

The process of her doing so finally shifted the dream, making it fade away while Nall was startled and turned around in the air, looking around in panic. "What now...? She is playing with us again.", he said, only for Reika alone to appear from the void. "Not quite... You've seen her, now... It's time to wake up. Besides, you're almost there, now... You would not want to be carried, do you? What would Shinigami think? We have time for questions if you have any but not yet... ♪", she snapped and playfully cast a form of gate below the two. One that would anyway suck them in if they tried to move away. One which would force them in a slumber only to wake up to their true bodies.

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

Jumi could not blame Nall for his suspicion.  His attitude felt similar to what Jumi felt about Reika before last night.  Jumi would like to believe that side of Reika she saw was genuine, that she at least sometimes showed it to some people.  That Mitsuko would see more of it over these few days, but it looked like she would not get to see more of it, unless Reika showed her later.  She did not say anything about the state of Mitsuko’s body or the sword.  If it was here and not part of Mitsuko now, they would not likely be able to touch it.  She thought the place was probably real, but she and Nall were not completely present.

“Probably not too bothered, I would hope, but fair enough.”  It would be Hikaru doing it, carrying her, if necessary, might slightly annoy him.  She would hope Shinigami would not be too annoyed, especially about checking on Mitsuko, but it would be nice to be up to see her, and see Shinigami and Kaida meet.  “Don’t keep me waiting too long, have something to tell you myself when that time comes.”  A hint of the admission she intended to make next time it was just the two of them, one she could only guess how Reika would react when she heard it.  She did not know if Reika would care, but it felt right for her to also have something she intended to wait to say.  Reika would decide the time, tonight or another time, she did not know if that would influence it.

She closed her eyes, relaxed, would let the gate do its thing.  She had not had a chance to try to comfort Nall, but hopefully he would calm down a little once they were back in their bodies, in the car.

[Warning]

Reika only seemed to watch in amusement as they disappeared painlessly in the void. Nall didn't really like it, even panicking a bit but slumber did take him just the same anyway. Only then did Reika also disappear to leave nothing. They both would wake up soon after, probably close to the temple now if they were still on the road. Nall looked grumpy by it, opening his eyes slowly only to shoot them open as soon as he noticed Reika's butt near him, realizing she was still there. "Yikes.", he slipped out, moving away. "Now now, not a way to behave... I hope you had good dreams.", she replied with a smile to him then checked on Jumi. "Time to wake up... You two had a small nap. Hopefully a good one."

Nall was upset but still glad to at least have seen Mitsuko or a vision of her alive. He doubted that she was an illusion, seeing how she behaved. It had to be her. There would be no reason for Reika to go all the way only to play them like fools and waste time. He'd like to question the reaper about certain things but it was best to hold back for now. Mao still did not seem bothered at all, still looking outside at what appeared to be flying closer until it landed in an open area near them, surprising even Nall who had almost forgotten about that. "Well, there is someone I did not see in a long while, now. It's like she did not age.", Reika commented about Kaida first making sure her dragon was doing well, now.

It did not take too long before the Little Dragon's eyes looked toward the car, only to stare at who she had recognized on the back seats. The confusion visible on her face did not change how cautious she now was, even making sure that her dragon beast stepped back some from the car but otherwise did nothing except taking a good look at them and not losing her sight on them. "Looks like someone has noticed. From this moment, I think things will get very interesting, won't they?", the reaper asked rhetorically, as tension probably was going to be felt being at the temple with her anyway. If anyone else noticed the dragon anyway, Kaida would keep it behaved, not wanting it to show any hostility.

Edited December 31, 2025 by Warning

[SataiRolePlayingGuy]

Jumi let the waking come, still relaxing for the moment before hearing that voice again and opening her eyes.  “Staying with us, hm?”  She had expected Reika to go back to watching Mitsuko, not seeing her again until their private moment.  The comments about Kaida shifted her thoughts.  Looked like Reika did not listen to everything that was said earlier, if she listened at all.  “Surprised?  She wanted to see Shinigami for herself after hearing about her.”  Did not age though?  That brought up questions about Kaida again, perhaps more than she seemed after all?  A hint of Nall’s recognition?  She would not ask though, it might come up on its own if they talked.  “I asked her if there was anything she wanted to tell you earlier, in case you were listening.  She declined to do so, don’t know if that will change with you standing in front of her.”  She had no idea where this was going, how long Reika intended to hang around or what else she had planned.  Though at least the girl would not be following her and Shinigami home after finishing at the temple….probably.

They were getting close to the gate now.  Hikaru briefly stopped the car.  Those who watched it of course recognized it.  They might have been a little distracted by the dragon, but since it was not acting hostile and the car was not trying to escape it, they took it to be an approved guest and the gate opened.  The car slowly drove in towards the main building.  “I hope you two will both be civil in my home.”  He calmly stated towards Reika, hoping Kaida would do the same, if not provoked.

Umi stood near the door, after staring the laundry, and following Shinigami to the kitchen, she had excused herself, letting Shinigami know she would be waiting here for the others to return.  That she would take them to Shinigami, if she did not join her before then.  She watched the car stop.  Jumi stepped out first, she guessed Hikaru would let them all get out, take the car to its garage before rejoining them.

[Warning]

Reika only looked more intrigued when Jumi mentioned it. "Of course she would... I am not worried about her, though. She might just end being another girl she plays with.", she replied in a snarky manner. Still, a slice of annoyance could be heard in her tone as well if someone listened well enough to notice. Her gaze turned to the fairy. "That will be interesting to see. Her and I, we have a story to finish. In all of its due time.", The tone of annoyance increased a little but she otherwise remained calm. Once they were allowed inside, Kaida made sure to follow the car at a safe distance, walking dragon steps to a safe spot near the temple, leaving the beast to lay down after it finally arrived to its resting space.

Once Kaida dismounted and heard Hikaru but also gave a look to Reika and Mao getting out as well, she politely ignored them for now. Something felt strange inside her seeing this one girl again but she expected that this might come soon or later, with Mao AND Shinigami showing up. Her only question was how did Reika find her way with them while she was certain that nobody had approached the car at all during the ride. That reaper had some tricks up her sleeves to go unnoticed by her like this. Reika only shrugged but nodded, "Sure... We will make peace while inside your home.", she agreed, even if with a certain tone to it. Kaida thought best to ignore her for now. Nall preferred to remain away.

Kaida headed to the temple itself, finding the first person at the door and bowed politely to her. "Greetings. It is a honor to be here. I hope my dragon friend will not be cause for worries. In fact, it will stay there to rest. It might look fierce but unless hurt or provoked, it will not mind anyone being curious.", she told Umi, trying to be polite and social, putting aside her excitement to find that beast of death. If she was there, she would see her soon anyway. Reika and Mao instead watched from the distance, the reaper feeling some irritation while the cat remained as neutral as usual, if anything watching Nall out of curiosity while he was himself keeping an eye on the dragon from afar, being in a good mood.