Hey guys I'm back with a new chapter and I hope you all like it, now I am not covering the Rating Game in this chapter that will next chapter and I hope it goes over well, because... It's going to be action packed! Now I hope your ready for it because in there because Magnus will face a hard choice when it comes to fighting Saji. Now I just want to say thank you to everyone who has faved and followed my stories or me it means a lot so thank you guys. Same to my reviews it is great to see your support. Now time for the reviews! Ace I'm glad you liked the reference I thought it was kind of funny and yeah the chance was missed but I didn't think of it at the time. The character is an OC that appeared in that story but is solely mine and he much like Magnus came from my brain. As to Irina and Magnus do like some of the same things and still do and yeah they have debates. Now I don't watch wrestling so sorry, also thanks for the support for work. Also the Rating Game will be held in the underworld not LA trust me the ORC will be in LA one day just not so soon and Akeno and her dad will have some good bonding, plus dude they just got done with the Loki fight everyone is going to rest for a few days, so no training involved, also I knew about the fanfiction but I never read it, I need to though. Also yes I listen to the Foo Fighters why do you ask? Darth56 thanks man I'm glad you liked it and thanks for the support. Merendinoemiliano glad you liked it man and it's fine just knowing people read my stuff is enough for me. Blank Core Devil of course you know who it is, but don't tell it's a surprise... Also I'm watching you The Maverick fans don't spoil my surprise and if you read the The Maverick to find out who it is don't say anything keep it to yourself please. Because I am always watching 0_0. Anyway as of right now I'm working on the next chapter so don't worry I will get the fight done soon.

Three days... Three days of rest, that is all we got before the rating game with Sona and her crew, which may not seem like much but given the healing powers of Asia, the hot springs of the Gremory family and the overall comfort that Gremory Manor had… Three days was more than enough for relaxing. Plus, we also had less than three weeks before summer ended and we would be back in school. So, as we all relaxed and rested we all put the thought of the rating game from our mind. However, my time relaxing wasn't as relaxing as I would have liked because I was accosted by the girls at every turn… I guess me dying was pretty rough on them all, hell even Kiba and Gasper were kind of clingy, which was weird but I get it you thought a close personal friend died and there was no way to help him…. It can affect you greatly.

Also during this time relaxing I kept on asking Rias about the guy that helped calm her down and bring me back to life during the fight with Loki, she refused to answer and told me that it was best that I didn't think on it too much. However, I just couldn't get it out of my head, who was that guy… Was he a magician? He kind of looked like one but that didn't make any sense what so ever. Why would a magician be interested in helping me? I tried asking Sona about it but she like Rias refused to speak about it, plus with the rating game coming up she didn't want to speak to me since I was going to be fighting her and her team soon. So, I tried the one person I thought would help Sairaorg, but much like Sona and Rias he didn't want to talk about it he mentioned something about it being. 'To strange to believe' and left it at that.

(Day one of rest)

"Magnus, you really need to stop worrying about it and just relax." Rias told me with a smile.

Sighing I nodded. "Yeah fine… I still want to know but I will relax."

"Good boy." She smiled at me and gently kissed my cheek before leaving me alone in the Gremory family library. Watching her go I shook my head and went back to what I was doing, reading a book about the Gremory family history. See those lessons that Rias's mom ordered me to go through were still on going and part of my lessons was learning about the Gremory family but sense Sebastian the tutor believed I would be better suited to learning on my own I was left alone to do my own studying. I personally think he didn't want to deal with me because I was corrupting Millicas and making him a little prankster.

"Magnus!"

Speak of the devil (pun intended) I turned around and smiled watching the red-headed boy run into the room with an excited look on his face. "Hey there kid, how is it going?"

"Great I have some free time and I was wondering… Would you play with me?" He asked looking rather hopeful.

Poor kid I guess he doesn't get to play with people his age that much so I guess he wants someone, anyone to play with. "Of course, come on Millicas lets go." Closing my book with a smile, I set down on a nearby table, and let the little red-head lead me around the mansion until I led to what I believe is his room. As we walked in I shook my head, all around were posters from cartoons from various shows. Some I recognize, others I don't from I can I guess they were cartoons from the underworld. Who knew that the devils had their own tv shows? Also in the room were various boxes labeled for toys, I also spotted a very large tv with some consoles and a bed.

"So, what do you want to do Millicas?" I asked as the nephew of the girl that I liked and saw him pull out a couple of toy swords.

"Can we play knights and dragons?" He asked with a huge smile. "You can be the dragon that kidnaped the princess if you want?"

Laughing I grabbed the sword and schooled my face becoming the villain for the game. "Very well Sir Millicas shall we go and do battle for the princes?"

Holding up his sword like a little kid Millicas's face turned playfully stern. "I shall defeat you evil red dragon!"

"Has anyone seen Magnus?" Asia asked looking around the parlor. "He said he would help me with some new ideas for my sacred gear." Ever since the training camp Asia had been working on new ways to expand her powers and figured that one of the best people to help her was Magnus.

"He was in the library earlier, but after I made him relax I left." Rias shrugged with a smile. "He shouldn't be too hard to find."

Akeno who came into the room giggled slightly. "I know where he is."

"Where?" Asia asked with a curious look on her face. Motioning for them to follow the black-haired teen led the other two girls to a ballroom where the other members of the club were but also her parents and Grayfia. Pushing past the small crowd Rias smiled and shook her head, in the middle of the ballroom was Magnus and Millicas both were fighting with wooden swords.

"Who knew Magnus was good with children." Xenovia commented rubbing her chin in thought. "He will make a wonderful father."

"I think its sweet that he's playing with Millicas." Asia smiled her hands clasped together.

"Because of his status as the son of Sirzechs Millicas doesn't get to have a normal life." Grayfia said sounding sad before smiling. "It is good see that he and Magnus are bonding."

Rias smiled and nodded her head. "It is, Millicas doesn't play with children his own age and lucky for him Magnus is a big kid at heart."

"I will slay you evil dragon king and save the princess." Millicas proclaimed boldly.

Magnus let out a… well a loud belly laugh struck a pose. "You will never save her Sir Millicas, I will eat the princess and you will never see her again!" Looking their way, he winked at Rias just as Millicas put his sword through the small hole in his arm, squeezing it tightly the bronze-haired teen gasped loudly and dropped his toy sword. "I have been beaten! Noooo!" Falling over dramatically Magnus stuck his tongue out to the side of his mouth.

Rushing down to see if he was okay Millicas whispered. "You're not really hurt, are you?"

Grinning Magnus winked at the young devil. "Naw, now go and pick your princes, she's waiting over there."

"Okay!" Millicas smiled looking at everyone not sure who to pick he turned back to the teen and whispered. "Who should I pick?"

Sitting up Magnus looked at all the girls and shrugged. "In my book, their all princess's maybe all of them?" At his words, all the girls blushed which got him to grin even more. Getting to his feet Magnus picked up Millicas and set him on his shoulders. "Come on kid you're a hero now, which means a hero's reward." Leading over to the others, Magnus set Millicas down as he was patted on the head by his grandfather, Kiba even patted him on the back while some of the girls kissed him on the cheek. "Who knows maybe after this you, me, Gasper and Kiba if they aren't busy can play some video games together."

Eyes lighting up Millicas nodded and looked toward Kiba and Gasper who both smiled nodded. "I would like that."

Chuckling to myself I laid Millicas down on his bed and shook my head, poor kid he wore himself out playing today. "Goodnight Sir Millicas." Gently rubbing his head, I walked out of his room to find Rias's father standing there with a smile. "Oh, hello sir."

"Magnus good to see you. I was wondering if we may talk?" He smiled before motioning for me to follow him.

Shrugging I followed the older devil with my hands behind my head. "Sure, thing what about?"

"It's about Millicas, I just wanted to say thank you for that. Because of my son's position as king Millicas doesn't get to experience a normal childhood I suppose you could call it." The head of the Gremory family explained to me. "And because I am busy with my duties as head of the family I can't spend too much time playing with him either."

Nodding I bit my lip. "Yeah, I feel bad for him, not having many people he can hang with. So, I get it plus he's a good kid and fun to be around."

"That he is." Rias's father smiled turning back to look at Millicas's door. "I am glad he found a friend in you. You have a big heart my boy."

Smiling I nodded as I faced the older devil. "I'm a big kid, plus he's fun to hang out with. Not to mention I'm an older brother so playing games with him today reminded me when Mason and I were kids."

Placing a hand on my shoulder the older devil smiled before walking down the hallway. "I have a good feeling you'll be a great father to my grandkids."

"Wait what?"

(Day two of rest)

"Let's see… how to kill time… hmm…" Rubbing my chin in thought about what to do for my second day of relaxation when one of the Gremory butlers came up to me and bowed.

"Master Maverick you have a visitor waiting for you in the entry way, a Mister Nicodemus a pawn in the service of the house of Phenex along with a Miss Isabella a rook in the service of the house of Phenex. They wished to speak with you." The butler said in a polite and even tone.

Blinking in surprise I smiled. "Cool, and you can just call me Magnus."

"Of course, Master Magnus." The butler replied bowing again."

Sighing I shook my head. "Never mind." Sticking my hands into my pockets I headed for the entryway and found both the pawn and rook standing there, Nic looked a little nervous while Isabella seemed perfectly at ease. Walking up to the two I smiled and waved slightly. "Hey guys what's happening?"

"Ah, hey Magnus." Nic smiled slightly before whistling. "Nice set up you got here."

"Not my place bro, Rias's. I'm still her servant sort of so I get to stay here with the others." I shrugged looking around. "But it is a nice place."

Frowning Nic raised an eyebrow. "But I thought you two were- "He started to say but was nudged by Isabella who shook her head. "Never mind."

"It is good to see you again Magnus." Isabella nodded in my direction. "We have come here on behalf of the Lady Ravel Phenex, she was wondering if you had some time to come and see her for tea and cakes?"

Snapping my fingers, I nodded. "Right I promised I would go. Sure, why not I did promise after all."

"Great hopefully she'll stop bugging us to get you over her- "Nic tried to say but Isabella elbowed him again. "Oof… Right, right."

Chuckling I shook my head. "Isabella be nice to Nic, plus I know Ravel has a crush on me. It's not hard to see, but I have no idea why she would though." Shrugging I looked around for a servant and found of the maids. "Hey excuse me, but would you mind letting Rias and my friends know that I'm going to have tea with Ravel Phenex."

Bowing the maid smiled. "Of course, Master Magnus." With that she walked off without letting me correct her.

Groaning I rubbed my face and turned back to the other two. "So how we getting there? Magic circle? Train? Flying?"

"Circle." Isabella motioned for me to follow her outside while Nic fell in line next to me, following the brown-haired rook outside Isabella opened her arms out once we were a good distance from the house I watched as a fiery red magical circle appeared on the ground and the three of us were consumed in a bright fire.

As the fire dissipated I looked around and found I was now standing within a green-house of some kind, with all types of plants and trees. Letting out a whistle I was impressed, I may not be the type of guy that knew or liked gardening but I did know that something like this was impressive. However, I didn't get a chance to look around too much because Isabella motioned for me to follow her, shrugging I did. As Isabella was leading me to who knows where, Nic and I were both talking with one another both of us agreed that he should drop by the human world sometime and hang out at my place.

"We are here." Isabella said stopping.

Halting I looked around, if I had to guess this was the center of the garden, there was a delicate and ornate white table, with a tea set nearby and a plate with a rather awesome looking chocolate cake on it, there was also two chairs, in one of the chairs was Ravel Phenex, who was blushing and looking at me shyly… Aw that's so cute... Must resist the urge to say anything…Fight…it… "Hey Rave you look good with that shade of red on your face." Damn it brain! Blushing even brighter Ravel stood up and did her best to cover her face, while Nic who was right next to me was doing his best not to laugh.

"My Lady Ravel, I hereby present to you Magnus Maverick." Isabella said as formally as possible.

"Ah-Yes thank you Isabella you and Nicodemus are excused, thank you for bringing him." Ravel said clearing her throat. Bowing Isabella grabbed Nic by the arm and dragged him off somewhere most likely to keep him from laughing. Looking back toward me Ravel curtseyed. "Thank you for accepting my invitation Lord Magnus."

"Your welcome Ravel, I did promise after all. Also, just Magnus, none of that lord stuff please." I smiled rubbing the back of my head.

Clearing her throat again Ravel nodded. "Alright… Magnus, would you care to sit down?"

Nodding but I quickly remembered whatever manners I had and went around and pulled her chair out slightly for her. Ravel smiled though seemed in shock that I was acting like a 'gentleman' but nodded her thanks and sat down. Pushing her seat in I moved around to the other side and sat down as well. The young blonde and I then started to chat, poor girl really was flustered.

"Would you like some tea?" She asked shaking slightly.

Smiling I nodded. "Sure, but let me pour it for you." Reaching out I went to grab the handle of the pot but she stopped me.

"No, you're my guest let me do it." Lifting the pot of tea and grabbing two cups she poured each of us a cupful and set it down before grabbing a small knife and cutting a slice of cake she used the knife to serve the piece onto a small plate and placed it before me. "Please try my cake."

Looking down at the cake then at the table I found a fork, grabbing it I quickly took a piece into my mouth and tried it. Slowly chewing I closed my eyes. Sweet lord above and below this was perhaps the best cake I have ever had in my life. Swallowing my small mouthful, I looked at the blonde who was staring at me nervously. "That is no doubt the BEST cake I have ever had."

"Really?" Ravel asked her blush covering her entire face.

"Yes, really." Smiling I took another bite. "Mmm… I may need to either stop by and visit you more often or you should give me the recipe." Quickly I finished off the piece she gave me and started to drink the tea that was poured as Ravel set another slice in front of me. Nodding gratefully, I dug into the next slice with much more gusto than before.

"So… Magnus I-I made a decision." Ravel said fidgeting slightly in her chair.

Swallowing the most delicious devil food cake (get it? Cause she's a devil… Screw you that was funny!) I turned my head. "About what?"

"During your rating games, I will be cheering for you." She finally said with a cute smile.

"Thanks Ravel." Man, she is a cute girl, yeah, she can be a little rough around the edges but underneath she's nice. I spent a good portion of my afternoon just hanging out with Ravel and eating cake and drinking tea. After a couple of hours, I decided I should back but I was given a standing invitation to come by anytime, hell I even offered her one in return to come visit my house. As I was leaving with Isabella and Nic escorting me back to the Gremory home I told both Isabella and Nic the same thing applied to them. Nic was a friend, plus I really wanted to fight against him, I wanted to see what his sacred gear could really do, and Isabella? Well she was a cool person and I wouldn't mind having a rematch against her some time either.

"Thank you once again for agreeing to do this man." Nic laughed rubbing the back of his head. "Like seriously this made Ravel's week."

Isabella for once didn't hit Nic or scold him in fact she seemed to agree. "It's true, thank you Magnus Maverick."

"No problem, and like I told her and you guys. Your always welcome to drop by my place in the human world." Giving them a wave I slowly vanished inside the magical circle they had set up for me. Within the span of a few seconds I appeared just outside of the Gremory main house, and walked toward the door. However, I never got a chance to open it as the door swung wide opened revealing a group of angry girls. Gulping I grinned nervously. "Hi ladies…AH!" I screamed as a bunch of hands grabbed me by my jacket and pulled me inside.

(Day three of rest)

Despite the massive integration I received the other day from all the girls I got off easily enough when I had promised each of them that I would spend an hour alone with them doing… Whatever they wanted as long as it did not involve 'baby making' or practicing said, 'baby making' which seemed to disappoint Xenovia but she got over it pretty quickly. So, on my third day of relaxing I spent it with the girls of the ORC. The first part of my afternoon I was hanging out with Koneko what she wanted to do was… Well ever since the whole Loki fight she has been sitting on my lap… Like A LOT, in many ways ever since she started to accept her nekomata half the silver-haired girl has become more cat like. Don't get me wrong it was cute and made Koneko even cuter but seriously I wasn't sure how to deal with it…

Anyway, getting off topic, I spent an hour with Koneko just listening to music together, while she sat on my lap. It was a nice way to spend time together, despite the fact I didn't care for hip-hop that much we still had a good time just hanging out.

"What do you think of this song?" She asked turning her head to look back at me.

Listening to the beat I shrugged. "It's not bad." I smiled tapping my foot along. "I personally prefer rock music but this isn't bad." Koneko smiled at that and leaned back against me. Rolling my eyes, I gently rubbed the top of her head which caused her to meow…. Cute.

After Koneko it was Asia who just wanted to spend time together hanging out, which was fine with me. In many ways, it reminded me of the early days when it was just her and me before Rias and the others moved in. Don't get me wrong despite all the hassle it caused I liked having them at the house, but there was something about just me and Asia hanging out together like we did now that was just fun.

Right now, we were just hanging out in of the many library's together…. Seriously how many library's does this place have? I will need to check that out later. Anyway, we were just sitting together and talking about… Nothing in particular which was nice.

"I finished reading one of those books you loaned me, I loved them." The blonde smiled brightly. "It reminded me of the bible for some reason."

Chuckling I stretched out. "Well C.S. Lewis was a believer or so they say, and Aslan represents Jesus."

Asia's mouth formed a small 'o'. "That is amazing I just got that." Looking up the blonde smiled brightly. "Are there any other books you recommend?"

"Hmm… Maybe, The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings." Smiling I placed my hands behind my head. "You'll really like those I'm sure."

"Well if you recommended it than I'm sure I will love it." Asia said which caused me to blush.

Shaking my head, I coughed into my hand. "Anyway, since we didn't get a chance to discuss it yesterday I had some ideas for your sacred gear…." After that I began to give the former nun a few ideas on how she could expand herself combat wise, however the conversation didn't last too long as Asia's turn soon ended and now I was spending time with Xenovia and all she wanted to do outside of wanting to make babies or practice making them was practice swordplay together.

"Come on Magnus you must get better!" The holy-sword user shouted as she swung her sword Durandal at me. Blocking with Dyrnwyn, we both were locked in a stale-mate before I broke it by backing off.

"Easy for you to say Xenovia you had a life time of training and Kiba has tons of natural talent." I panted as I stared at blue-haired girl. "I'm catching up but barely." Swinging my sword around I tried going for an uppercut but found fiery sword blocked the blue blade that could cut everything.

"Be that as it may, if you wish to get better you must practice!" Kicking me in the stomach Xenovia jumped into the air her sword held high. Groaning I summoned Ascalon and used both holy swords to hold hers at bay, this went on for another few minutes before finally Xenovia deemed that we had practiced enough. We then spent the remaining time just talking, I found out how she and Irina met and became friends and I learned about her life growing up in the church. It was nice to see that outside of her 'I want to make a baby with you' and the whole seriousness of her training that Xenovia and I could both have a good time just hanging out together. It really put her in a whole new light.

After that it was Akeno's turn and it was slightly less horrifying than I first thought, kind of like how Asia and I spent time together Akeno and I just talked…. However, unlike Asia, Akeno had either my head in her lap or was clinging to me like her life depended on it. Granted I didn't mind, I liked Akeno and thought she was beautiful hell I didn't mind when the girls were being themselves, I just hated when they went overboard and either tried to kill one another, me, or some combination of the two. While Akeno and I spent time chatting I had to admit I liked this side of Akeno, it seemed more like a high school student… Huh I just thought of something maybe that's what I like about these girls is when they are just acting their age and being normal. Hell, I bet the only reason why they don't is the dragon aura that Ddraig told me about. May need to find a way to suppress that if possible…. Eh I'll worry about it later.

"Akeno I have a question." Staring at the older girl who was at the moment clinging to my arm.

Smiling the black-haired teen nodded. "What is it Magnus?"

"I was just wondering… Why we were having a rating game with Sona and her crew, up until now no one has told me why it was happening."

Giggling slightly Akeno covered her mouth before turning her head. "That's right you weren't than there when it happened. It was during the meeting of young devils, we aren't just having a rating game against Sona and her group, but all the other young devils." Akeno explained to me, which made a lot of sense now that I was thinking on it.

"Does that mean we'll have more rating games even after summer?" I asked turning my head with a raised eyebrow.

"That's correct, don't worry though. They shouldn't take too long." She smiled and shockingly kissed my cheek and pushed me down onto the couch. "Now enough about that, let's just enjoy our time together."

Blushing brightly, I looked up at Akeno who slowly leaned down her lips close to mine. "Umm… Akeno didn't I say no…" I tried to speak but stopped as she put a finger on my lips… This isn't fair…. No, seriously Xenovia obeyed the rule why can't Akeno? Don't get me wrong part of me was enjoying this but, seriously this isn't fair.

"What's the matter Magnus? Don't you want this?" The older girl asked her voice becoming husky, while her face flushed slightly. "I know part of you does." This last part was said with a smirk.

"He and I don't always agree, but come seriously Akeno you promised me." Turning my head to the side I did my best to hide my blush but it was kind of hard to do when I was stuck on a very small couch.

"You made Xenovia promise, not the rest of us." She said rather pointedly, frowning I thought over my conversation with the girls and remembered I only said it to Xenovia… Damn it, Akeno got me there. "Now come we don't have much time." Akeno smiled leaning down about to kiss me.

"Correction, you don't have any time."

Akeno looked up at Rias with a smile. "Aw is the hour up already?"

"Yes, it is and it seems I was right to come collect Magnus myself." Rias walked around to stand in front of us and raised eyebrow staring down at me a leveled glare.

Using my arms to help give me some leverage I looked up at the red-head with a slightly worried look. I knew Rias wouldn't hurt me hell I'm pretty sure at this point I was stronger than she was in certain areas, but that's with the boosted gear and its powers. Because without those she would kick my ass seven ways to Sunday. "In my defense, we were only talking for past hour. The rest of … This, just happened."

"Akeno we'll discuss this later." Rias gave the queen a pointed stare before turning around and leaving the room. "Magnus follow me."

Getting out from under Akeno I smiled nervously and waved. "See yeah Akeno."

"Bye Magnus." Akeno giggled and waved.

Getting out of the room I followed Rias through the hallway in silence, I reached out with my new senjutsu abilities, see another thing that senjutsu allowed me to do, besides sense spirit energy or suppress my own I gained a helpful ability to feel someone's emotions to an extent… Kind of like being a jedi which was awesome! However, what I was sensing from Rias was not what I was expecting… She wasn't mad, jealous, or anything. In fact, it felt like her emotions were being covered by something… I may need to look into that later. I was so lost in my own world that I almost ran into Rias, the older girl had stopped in front of a set of double doors and was looking down at the ground, looking embarrassed.

"Magnus… What I am about to show you is… Well only me and the maids have seen before." Rias said with a blush on her face…. Oh, my this isn't Rias the devil or the next head of the Gremory family this was the normal Rias the one that I always saw, the one underneath all the layers. "You just have to promise not to laugh." Staring at her slightly in surprise I nodded while promising her I wouldn't. Rias looked at my briefly before taking a dig breath and opened the door and stepped on through with me following her.

Stepping into the room I took stock of everything as a little shocked to see that the entire room was Japanese in nature, the design, the furniture, the decorations… Everything it was a little shocking to say the least, there was posters for Japanese bands, games, shows, movies, toys, videos, games, and much more. The entire room looked like it was a homage to Japan. "What is this room?"

"It's my room." Rias spoke in a slight nervous tone. "I have never shown anyone this room before."

Looking around I whistled and smiled. "I don't see why not, it's really cool."

"Y-you think it's cool?" Rias sounded surprised but relieved. "You don't think it's weird?"

"Well yeah." I smiled looking at the red-head. "I don't see why it would be weird. Yeah your obsessed with everything Japan but there's nothing wrong with that." Smiling I placed my hands behind my head and cocked it to the side. "I think it's cute."

"Cute?" Rias blushed brightly before smiling at me. "You think it's cute huh?"

Chuckling I nodded my head and looked around again. "Of course, now I kind of figured you were obsessed with Japan because every time you beat me to making breakfast you made miso soup, steamed rice, fish and a few other things that belong to a traditional Japanese breakfast, not to mention a few other things. However, this just confirms it." Smiling I lowered my hands to my sides. "Plus, you showing me this helps me see the real Rias underneath all the layers of being the next family head."

Now… I don't know if it was what I said, or Rias just relieved that I was so accepting but the next thing I knew I was on the ground with Rias on top of me… "Ummm… Rias… your um…" Blushing brightly as I was once again in a comprising position with an older chick, I tried to move but was stopped from talking as Rias kissed me. Just like the last two times I was completely unsure what to do… Screw it I turned off my brain for a second and kissed her back.

"I knew it!"

Non-existence God damn! This always happens, just as something was about to happen or did happen, something interrupted. (Granted in some cases I was glad it did, mostly because my brain was fighting for control, but hey my brain is off right now) Feeling Rias pull away I turned my head to see Asia, Koneko, Xenovia and Akeno all standing there, all the girls were looking quite pissed off…. Great how do am I going to get out of this one?

The answer was…. Azazel apparently, he needed to speak to all of us so he sent the girls to come collect the both of us all. To say Rias was angry that our teacher called us all together during Rias's time alone with me but she got over it when the fallen angel explained to us it was about the rating game with Sona. All off were standing around a small desk which Azazel was sitting in with his feet propped up. "Rias, Sona knows what your group is fully capable of yes?" The fallen angel asked with a raised eyebrow.

At his question, Rias nodded. "Yes, she understands us roughly. For example, she knows of Magnus, Kiba, Akeno, Asia and Xenovia's main weapons. Video recordings of our battle with Riser were partly open to the public, after all. Furthermore, Gasper's Sacred Gear and Koneko's background are out in the open. Not to mention Sona was there during the enactment party and we fought together against Loki."

"Well, she knows roughly about all of you then. So, how much do you know about her side?"

"I know the abilities of Sona, Tsubaki and of several others of her servants. Though some of their abilities haven't been confirmed yet." Rias frowned rubbing her chin in thought. "Tsubaki has a sacred gear that could be troubling, it can bounce attacks back at twice their power."

"So, you're at a disadvantage in that regard. Well, such a thing is fine for a game or an actual battle. That is often the case in both the games and in actual battles. There are also cases of a Sacred Gear evolving and transforming during battle. You should pay careful attention, you're not fighting just anyone. Your facing one the Rookie Four's." Our teacher said like it was supposed to mean something… Well I guess to some of us in the room it meant more but for me I got nothing.

"Yes, one king, one queen, one rook, one knight, two bishops, and two pawns, for a total of eight enemies. It seems she still doesn't have a full set of pieces yet, but it's the same numbers as us." Rias countered.

Right, so there were eight opponents. On our side, there were eight of us, including Rias, Akeno, Kiba, Koneko, Asia, Xenovia, Gasper and me. It was the same numbers… It could be an even fight but that's not including the multiple advantages we had over them. Shaking my head, I watched as Azazel grabbed a small whiteboard that was in the desk and pulled it out and began to write on it.

"The Rating Game classifies players into different particular fighting-types. Power, technique, wizard, support. Out of these, Rias is a Wizard-type. The type that is superior in magic in general, so to speak. Akeno is the same. Kiba is a Technique-type. He fights with speed and technique. Xenovia is a Power-type that aims for a one-hit-certain-kill. Asia and Gasper are Support-types. Also, if you classify them with even more detail, Asia is closer to a Wizard-type, while Gasper is closer to a Technique-type. Koneko is a Power-type. And lastly, Magnus. You're also a Power-type. However, you're also good at being a Support-type as well. With your transfer power, though with what you showed during the first rating game your good with technique but your focus is power."

I was bewildered by all these things that I suddenly had to learn and remember, but in other words there were various types within the families playing in the games. So, I'm a Power-type that can also serve as support, huh. To be honest that makes sense. Given the fact that ever since I created Dragoon mode and achieved my balance breaker I have fought with more power than anything else.

Azazel drew lines to form a cross, and wrote the names of the four types within each of the four quadrants of the cross, thereby making a chart. Our names were written on the chart according to location of type. I was located in the Power-type while being situated near Support. Kiba was in Technique. Xenovia was in Power-type, and each of the other members was located somewhere else on the chart.

" The thin is that Power-types have to be most careful of are counters. A troublesome class among Technique-types. That is the counter-type ability. There are counter-types even among the Sacred Gears, power-types like Magnus, Koneko and Xenovia can have their power turned around by a single counter blow. It's because counters return the opponent's power to them plus the power of the one who counters. When one is strong, it's natural for there to be damage just as strong, if not stronger."

"If there's a counter, I just have to overcome it with power." Xenovia said, which caused me to raise my eyebrow.

"That could work to an extent." I mumbled rubbing my chin in thought. "But with the right move you, it doesn't matter how much power you have."

Azazel nodded in my direction. "He gets it. While it's possible to overcome technique with power, but it's another story when your opponent is a genius in that field. Avoid attacking as much as possible. It's better to face counter-users with the spell-user Akeno, the technique-user Kiba or Gasper with his special vampire abilities. Everything is a matter of compatibility. Power-types are simply strong. But the risk is big for them when fighting against Technique-types."

Xenovia was silent during the explanation. Xenovia. Azazel then turned to the red-head in our group. "Rias, if there are counter-users in Sona Sitri's group, they might run into Magnus. If a counter eats up his enormous power, it will be an instant out. So be careful, even with his power over light it can still be dangerous. I'd say that the chances of you guys winning in this game is over eighty percent. I do believe that you'll win, but, I don't know if you'll win 'for sure'. The value of pieces isn't absolute either. Like an actual game of chess, the value changes according to the situation on the board."

The Governor General continued. "I have lived a long time. In that time, I have seen a great variety of battles. That's why I will say this. I have seen guys win despite having less than a ten percent chance of victory. Do not take even a one-percent chance lightly. Don't believe that you'll win for sure, that is all the help I can give you for now, since the battle is tomorrow."

The day for the battle had arrived and boy was it nerve racking, but at least the only thing at stake here was pride and not the future of someone we all knew so it made things a bit easier. Standing inside a large magical circle inside of the Gremory house everyone was wearing their school uniform, minus Asia, who was in her old nun outfit, Xenovia in her tight fighting black outfit, Gasper wearing the brave clothes and me in my usual outfit which had been repaired… again.

Standing next to us was Sona and her peerage all of them were wearing their school uniforms as well, we were all getting ready. While Rias's parents, Millicas, Sirzechs and Grayfia were standing just outside of it and nodded at all of us.

"Good luck kids, don't lose. Otherwise all that training will have gone to waste" Azazel gave us a lazy wave, while her parents gave out words of encouragement.

"You can do it Rias!" Millicas cheered for us aunt which caused all of us to smile.

Looking around I smiled and gave Sirzechs a thumb up before he left. "You made sure my family could watch yeah?"

"Of course, they will be in the VIP booth with us, alongside some important visitors." The devil king nodded at me before he and his maid left, leaving me to wonder who were the important visitors… Eh I will think on it later. Shrugging I watched as the light all around us obscured our view of the others, and finally it when it died down I started to look around with a small frown, we were surrounded by tons and tons of tables… Weird I wonder where we are… And why did this place seem so familiar.

However, when I saw a familiar golden arch my eyes went wide. "McDonalds? Why are we here?" Frowning I walked toward the window and saw we were inside a massive shopping complex, it reminded me of a mall. "Why is this place so familiar?"

"Because it's the department store back home." Rias said walking up to me a frown also on her face, I guess she was expecting something else.

"Attention everyone please, welcome everyone my name is Grayfia. I'm the queen in the Lucifer Peerage. I'll be your referee for today's match between the Lady Rias Gremory and Lady Sona Sitri."

Looking around for the voice of the silver-haired maid I raised an eyebrow. Her introduction was different than last time, eh must be because she isn't acting on behalf of the Gremory family but instead as the queen of Sirzechs. Makes sense I suppose.

"The battle field for today is a department store within the neighborhood of Kuoh Academy. Both groups have been transported to their respective basses, Lady Rias's home base is on the second floor of the most Eastern side of the building, while Lady Sona's base is on the first floor on the most Western side. For pawns to Promote they must reach the enemy base."

Frowning I rubbed my chin, well the promotion thing didn't matter to me but if Saji or the other pawn promote we could have problems. Shaking my head, I decided to focus on the locations we were all at. It made sense we were in the fast food place on the second floor, and if I remembered the geography of this place… Sona and her group were near the small grocery store… Seriously this place was like a mall mixed Walmart at times.

"This time, there will be special rules. documents on the rules have been sent to each group, so please check them. A single bottle of the healing item phoenix tears, have been provided to each team. Furthermore, the time to strategize before the battle is thirty minutes. Contact with the opponent during this time is forbidden. The game is scheduled to start after thirty minutes. Then, let the strategy time begin."

After that everyone gathered together to plan out the battle… This was not going to be as easy. "Since the battle is an indoors we will have a hard time." Rias mumbled. "The rules state we can't cause too much damage to the store. Which means we're limited in what we can or can't do."

Damn that… Is kind of clever I wonder if the rule was set up by Sirzechs to gauge to see if we could handle being limited in a certain way. "It just forces us to be fight smarter than harder."

"This also means Gasper's eyes also won't be effective." Akeno said with a sigh as she placed a hand on her cheek. "There are plenty of places to hide from his view."

"Sadly, his eyes weren't allowed from the start, they put a restriction on his sacred gear." Rias said holding up a paper which I assumed held all the 'special' rules for our battle. "Despite the progress he has made my brother and Azazel believe he needs more training before he can use it properly. To help they have provided these." Reaching into her pocket she pulled out a pair of round sunglasses with yellow lenses. "They are meant to block his sacred gear but other than that it won't affect his other powers."

"I'm sorry I am so useless…" Gasper started to say but stopped but when I placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled.

"Relax Gasper you're a lot power than before just give it time, plus you still have your awesome vampire powers." That seemed to do the trick because the blonde half-vampire cheered up at that and nodded.

Rias smiled at me before her face turned serious again. "Also, there is another rule and it's for you Magnus. Your forbidden from using Juggernaut Drive during the battle."

"Makes sense, otherwise I think I could end this in one blast." I smirked playfully but in reality, I knew that Juggernaut Drive was not a toy and shouldn't be used lightly. I had only used it twice, once during my training when I first unlocked it and the second time was against Loki. After both times, I felt… wrong, it was so hard not letting the power, and anger consume you. I wonder if this is how Bruce Banner felt when he took control of the Hulk's mind?

"The Rating Game isn't something you can win simply by having a lot of power. The battle situation changes completely according to the battlefield and rules. Because this is a ground where even devils that lack strength can depend on wisdom and rise higher, it has become popular in the Underworld and among the other powers." Rias explained with a serious look on her face. "The rules this time may have us at a disadvantage. However, if we can't make up for this, we won't be able to win and advance in the games from now on. Even a pawn can take down the king, this is not only a basic rule in chess, but also a proverb of the Rating Games. In other words, it implies that anyone can win with the proper method."

Akeno smiled and nodded her words echoing Rias's. "That's right. There could be other indoor battles like this on. This may be a good opportunity for us. Today's battle is most suitable for getting used to indoor team battles."

Frowning I rubbed my chin in thought when suddenly an idea came to me. "Rias, this is an exact replica of the department store, right?"

"It is, but I don't see how that should matter. What is your point Magnus?" The red-head asked looking at me with a raised eyebrow, while everyone else stared at me.

Grinning I shrugged. "Well can we use the stuff around us?" I asked and when I got a nod that we could I laughed and started to leave the restaurant.

"Magnus where are you going? We haven't finished planning." Asia asked looking at me confused.

Turning around I smiled. "Well… There's a shop not that far from us that I need to check out. listen you guys do what you need and contact on me the ear piece thing when you have a plan."

"What kind of store is it?" Kiba asked.

"A prank store."

After twenty minutes of browsing through the prank store and wandering through the mall but making sure to stay clear of Sona's base I made sure everything was set up I headed back to our home base and found that everyone was getting ready or just relaxing. Xenovia and Asia were hanging out together both were talking about… whatever former church-goers talked about, Kiba was near a drug store, guess he was looking for… medicine and bandages since this place had items we could use, so that made sense. Koneko was sitting on one of the many tables mediating with Gasper nearby, while Rias and Akeno were talking with one another.

Walking up to the ladies I smiled and quickly explained what I had planned and what I had set up, both Rias and Akeno smirked at one another both agreeing that what I had done would be useful. Than both girls explained to me what the plan was, Kiba and Xenovia would be our attacking force and would go through the parking garage, while making Koneko and I the diversion by heading straight to the enemy base, Akeno, Rias and Asia would follow quickly behind us with Gasper acting us our eyes and ears… I liked the idea but I had Rias change Gasper's part. There was a small grocery store close to Sona's base and that place would have garlic which they could use against Gasper. So instead the vampire's job was to have one bat each with the groups so he could provide support in some way or give us all feedback.

"It is now time to begin, furthermore, there is a time limit for the game. Three hours blitz style." Grayfia's voice echoed over the magical intercom, which I had still yet to find.

Looking up Rias smiled confidently and nodded. "It is time my dear servants, let us go forth and do battle."

"Yes ma'am!" Everyone but me shouted… Yeah, I may be technically her servant but I preferred to be thought of as an individual.

Kiba looked at Xenovia and smirked. "You ready?"

"Yes, Kiba let's go." Together ran off as Gasper who turned into three bats sent one of the bats with them.

Looking down at Koneko who summoned her cat ears and tail I grinned. "Together like always. You ready partner?"

"Yes." Smiling at me Koneko took off with me following close behind as one of Gasper's bats followed alongside us. Let the Rating Game between Rias and Sona begin.