Alternate Reincarnation

The Date at Last: Part I

Hello again! Time for Chapter 9, "The Date at Last, Part I"

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It was almost dawn. The sun had just begun to rise, embracing the world with its warmth.

It was just what Rinne needed, after a long, cold night.

In the graveyard Rinne had come to like, the Ruler Spirit, in her usual transparent blouse, was staring against the brightening horizon, sitting under a large tree.

Rinne had always loved sunrise. It marked the beginning of a new day, a new cycle. Another day for her to plow through.

It also helped her ease her nerves.

"Are you really that nervous, partner?"

The sound came from her trusted timekeeper.

Kurumi -clad in her black Lolita dress- sat right behind her, their bodies leaning against each other, Rinne's back against Kurumi's.

Rinne liked the feeling it gave. It was comforting, to feel someone leaning on her like that. It reminded her of one thing.

"That I'm not alone."

"Yes, I am nervous. This will be my first date..." Rinne whispered.

"Really." Kurumi chuckled. "You are modest."

"I can't help it. I didn't get a chance to date anyone as a human, and I certainly don't have any after I received [Cassiel]..."

"And neither did I. Don't worry, Shido-san can handle it."

"I know he can handle it." Rinne sighed. "What I'm not sure is whether or not I can handle it."

"Fufufu... you worry too much." Kurumi snickered. "It's just a date. What's the worst that can happen?"

"AST, DEM, or even another Spirit... so many things could go wrong." Rinne listed.

"There's no need to bother yourself with such trivial matters. This is your date, relax. I will personally ensure that you get to enjoy it." Kurumi smirked.

Rinne widened her eyes a bit, understanding what Kurumi meant.

"...Thanks."

"You've been saying that a lot recently."

Rinne chuckled. Yes, Kurumi was right. Since last night, since yesterday.

Since she met Shido, face-to-face.

"Maybe Shido is infecting my head."

The Nightmare Spirit giggled creepily at that. Suddenly, Rinne felt uncomfortable.

Stifling her laughter, Kurumi spoke.

"Well, if you are really grateful, I want you to do something for me during your date."

"Hmm?" Rinne raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

"Oh," Kurumi's tone became sarcastic, "you will like it."

"...Why do I have a bad feeling about this?"

"It's because you have a sharp instinct."

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"Papa? Where are you?"

Shido could barely manage to hold his laughter as he heard Rio's sing-song voice from the distance.