True Magician

Chapter 35

The forest of familiars.

- I'm so sorry, but why am I here? - I asked the question, looking at the two groups of schoolboy demons.

- Because it's your job? - Covering her mouth with the palm of her hand, Akeno giggled.

- Somehow I don't recall a clause obliging me to visit another dimension with my students in the list of duties as a nurse of Kuoh Academy, - my gaze went towards Sona, who had a smug grin on her face - I demand compensation for overtime, President of the Student Council.

- Oh? Need I remind you exactly how you work? - She fixed her glasses and raised her hand and continued, curling her fingers-"Late hours, leaving the workplace abruptly, damaging school property, unscheduled days off, sleeping on the wo-" I stopped working at that point.

At this point I stopped listening to her and looked around.

The landscape was beautiful. Untouched by industrialization, nature breathed life. The swaying leaves of the trees, the murmuring of the waters, the sounds of mystical creatures, and most importantly, the high concentration of mana, reminded me of Solomon's memories of the Other Side of the World. I think there would be something to do here.

And actually, instead of "looking after" these demons, I could be lying on a bunk in the med room, stroking Foe and sipping coffee. So much time wasted... I have something to say to them. And Sirzechs, of course.

- Are you listening to me, Romani-sensei? - Sona asked with displeasure in her voice.

- Why are there two retinues here at once? Isn't the forest of familiars only open to one?

- Romani-sensei? - Her voice became louder.

- Do you have some sort of arrangement with the local parody Pokémon trainer? Or did you utilize the support of your brother and sister? Again.

- Hey!

- We found a way out," Rias replied with her arms crossed, "And you're only here to ensure our safety, though I don't see the need for it. Lord Lucifer insisted on it.

Oh? He wants to see my power? Somehow I have a feeling that something is going to happen today with subtle assistance from Scarlet Satan. Well, I don't think he can do that. After all, there's nothing in this forest that could force me to act even the slightest bit seriously.

And while I was pondering this, a huge wave-like shadow appeared behind me, and my magic circle lit up. A huge wave of water hit my side with unnatural hardness, making a loud explosion sound.

BOOM

- What is that!!! - Issei exclaimed.

- When did Sona become so strong! She didn't show it when we were fighting! - Supported her retinue by Rias herself, who along with Akeno held protective circles in front of her retinue.

My circle extinguished, and I slowly turned my head towards the enraged Sona with her arm outstretched in my direction, and gave her a cheerful look.

- Oya? When did you become so irritable, Ms. President? - I smiled, at which two giant snakes of water formed behind her and roared at me - Maybe you should sniff some paper and ink to calm down? Or would you prefer I call your sister over here? Your irritability can affect your appearance, you know? Wrinkles, that sort of thing? But I have absolutely nothing to do with it, if you ask me.

And as soon as I finished speaking, the snakes came at me, trying to naturally devour me. Even though they were stopped by my circle, they were beating on it with the intention of getting to my carcass.

- Can you not annoy Sona, Sensei? - Rias questioned, looking at me sternly - We're attracting too much attention.

- Oh? Tomato Princess, please keep your seeds to yourself and don't interfere in other people's conversation. Or have you not been taught etiquette? - I raised an eyebrow, and Akeno giggled, as did Sona's entourage.