So, I've recently had a burst of inspiration for this story, thanks to an idea I got from playing Arkham Knight. To that point, I'm thinking of starting a Batman fanfic and would like your opinions, on if I should go ahead with it.
I'll also say this one more time, but please support me on Pat reon if you can, so I don't need to take a hiatus, for anywhere between 1 and 5 years. I'm actually a third of the way to my goal (given currency exchange rates) and now have seven generous patrons, who I am immensely thankful for.
Also, I will get back to the stories I haven't updated yet, after my inspiration for this story abates. I've already gotten most of next chapter done as well, but things are starting to slow down, so I anticipate anywhere between 2-4 more chapters after this one, before switching stories again.
I would also really appreciate any feedback on my fight scene, since it is a bit different to what I usually write, given the lack of big flashy techniques.
In addition, you may have noticed I changed the character tags. This is reflective of the idea I got from Arkham Knight. If you've played the game, you'll probably be able to guess what I'm going to do. Don't worry about Kuroka and Irina being taken out of the harem, they are still in, but I've been weighing up the contribution of various characters in my mind and Gabriel is definitely the main pairing, but everyone else is sort of on similar standing. I added Raynare though because this story is revolving around her a lot and that will intensify next chapter, thanks to my idea.
I'm also still toying with other people in the harem. I know what I've said previously, but right now, the only one 100% in, will be Gabriel. Others are still really high, but I've been rethinking every character and their contributions to the story (as mentioned above) and am trying to figure out what I want to do.
This is because I have now changed the original ending I had for this story (the one I said would make some of you hate me, to extend the story a bit longer) and for that reason, have thought a bit further. For instance, you'll see in this chapter at least, that the Phoenixes will be more prominent in the story, much more so than I originally planned. To add to that, the angels will also have more of a focus, especially Dulio and Gabriel, which you will start to see next chapter.
Well, I think that's enough for now, but rest assured, there will be more to follow this chapter and soon.
Enjoy the chapter.
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the High School DxD anime/manga/light novel. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
'Ddraig talking and Sacred Gear sounds'
"Ddraig thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Chapter 9 – Clash of Titans
Issei entered the room and found it to be just as lavish as the rest of the Phoenix manor. The only difference, a key one at that, was the presence of a woman, who looked like an older Ravel.
'Thank you for agreeing to meet with me on such short notice, Red Dragon.' Said Lady Phoenix amicably.
'It was no trouble at all, I honestly had nothing better to do.' Said Issei, studying the woman currently sitting in a rich red armchair, encrusted with rubies.
'Please sit, I've prepared some tea as well.' Said Lady Phoenix, gesturing to a similarly fancy chair opposite her, as well as a small table, holding two cups of tea on a pure silver tray.
Issei obliged the older devil's wishes and made his way to the opulent chair, before sitting down.
'I've been told you wanted to speak to me, but not what it would concern.' Said Issei, a hint of suspicion in his tone.
'Yes, I've not made my intentions for this conversation known to anyone. I would also prefer if you keep the details of this conversation private, between only us.' Said Lady Phoenix calmly.
'Why would you want that? If what you say can be harmful, I won't lie to those I care about.' Questioned Issei sternly.
'Oh no, nothing harmful, although, I am glad that you would not wish to hurt those close to you.' Said Lady Phoenix.
'I believe that for the rest of my life, I will try not to… considering how much I disliked it.' Said Issei bitterly.
'I do extend my apologies for the recent… falling out… you experienced.' Said Lady Phoenix kindly, with Issei's frown lessening slightly.
'In any case, what did you want to talk about?' Asked Issei, hoping to move the conversation forward.
'Very well then. I will be honest, but in advance, forgive me for bringing up any bad memories for you… you see, when you broke Riser's engagement, our house suffered for it.' Started Lady Phoenix, noting Issei's expression souring, at being reminded of the past.
'Well, with what happened, it has been tough for the Phoenix, as far as our reputation is concerned.' Continued Lady Phoenix.
'I don't see where you are going with this.' Interjected Issei bluntly.
'Very well, let me hasten to the main point of this conversation then. The Phoenix Clan would very much like to form an alliance with you, the Red Dragon. As you can imagine, becoming an angel sent ripples through our society, so a link back to the devils, would do much to ease tensions.' Explained Lady Phoenix.
'Just why should I? I mean, I have nothing against you, but I don't particularly relish the idea of getting sucked back in, with all this devil business I've left behind.' Queried Issei.
'Well, we would require very little of you, in fact, almost nothing at all, barring you publicly approving of us, even just having a good relationship with some of our members, would be sufficient.' Elaborated Lady Phoenix.
'So, this has to do with Ravel then?' Asked Issei calmly.
'Indeed. You see, as you may have guessed, I am familiar with the events that transpired recently and to be honest, while I am a devil, I can also see your point of view and can understand why you would react the way you did.' Said Lady Phoenix, only for Issei to dryly laugh.
'You can understand the way I would react? With all due respect, the fact of the matter was; no one did understand me, so please don't act like you do.' Said Issei sardonically.
'I never claimed to understand exactly how you felt, merely that I could understand being hurt at being unappreciated. Of course, I have no idea how you felt personally, I was merely stating that your reaction was understandable, not your emotions at the time.' Reiterated Lady Phoenix, which caused Issei to give a small hum, but not speak.
'However, your feelings are not what I wanted to discuss with you today, but rather, the feelings of another.' Said Lady Phoenix calmly.
'Ravel.' Said Issei simply, getting a nod from Lady Phoenix.
'You see, she holds herself responsible for what happened…' Started Lady Phoenix, only for Issei to cut her off.
'What do you mean? Ravel had nothing to do with this at all. She did nothing wrong.' Said Issei in shock.
'I have told her as such, but she didn't seem too agreeable with me. I understand you have already told her you hold nothing against her, but if you could assure her on her innocence in the matter, I would greatly appreciate it.' Continued Lady Phoenix, getting Issei to adopt a thoughtful expression and rub his chin in thought.
After a brief lull, Lady Phoenix spoke up again.
'Would you mind if I speak honestly for a moment here?' Asked Lady Phoenix, to which Issei quirked an eyebrow, but nodded nonetheless.
'I hope you have realised by now, but Ravel cares for you, that is, more than a friend.' Said Lady Phoenix, getting a small nod from Issei.
'That being said, in light of what happened, she feels… unworthy… of pursuing her romantic interest in you, as she blames herself for what happened to you. To this end, I only ask that you be honest with her from this point on. If you return her feelings, please do make this obvious, as I'm sure you know now, the sense of unknowing and uncertainty can be crippling. Ravel is young, so should you break things off with her now, gently, she won't be too damaged by it… however, I simply ask that you don't string her along, if you don't return her feelings.' Requested Lady Phoenix softly.
'I see… Riser asked me something similar and I'll give you the same general reply. I swear I won't hurt Ravel. Ravel is a friend of mine and perhaps something more. I can't say for sure yet, but I do like her. I will try to understand myself and my feelings for her as soon as possible, as I don't want to string her along.' Confessed Issei honestly.
'That's all a mother could ask for, thank you.' Said Lady Phoenix calmly.
Issei gave a small nod, before grasping the cup of tea set for him, downed it and then stood up.
'If we are done here, I would prefer to meet up with Ravel and the others. Not to be rude, but while you and maybe a few others are fine with me, I don't think devil society, as a whole, is too pleased with me right now.' Said Issei.
'Of course, please, follow me.' Requested Lady Phoenix, before standing up herself and walked to the door, with Issei following.
As the duo walked through the extravagant building, Issei walked with a calm detachment, thinking on his most recent conversation. Lady Phoenix meanwhile, was content to walk in silence. After a few minutes, they reached another door, just as large and just as decorated as the one Issei had entered previously.
'This would be one of the living rooms in this house, closer to Ravel's room. No doubt, she would be here, I'm sure, after her little tour.' Said Lady Phoenix.
'Thank you.' Said Issei calmly, before reaching for the handle.
'Also, one last thing I'd like to say. Ravel is still growing at this point, both mentally and physically, however, even among devils, they say, if you want to know what a daughter will look like when she grows up, look no further than her mother.' Said Lady Phoenix, before giving a smile and turning on her heel and leaving.
Whether voluntarily or not, Issei's eyes followed Lady Phoenix's form, as she walked away, paying close attention to the sway of her hips, before shaking his head.
"Not exactly what I was expecting from Ravel and Riser's mother." Thought Issei in surprise.
Issei opened the large door and was greeted to a room that was equally large and well-furnished as the one he had left, only in this room, Irina, Xenovia and Ravel were present. Irina and Xenovia were sitting on a three-seater sofa, across from Ravel, on a three-seater of her own, both, in luxurious red upholstery. Ravel was sitting in the middle of her sofa, while Irina and Xenovia were sitting on either end of their sofa.
'Issei, you're back!' Exclaimed Ravel in surprise, as she had turned to face whoever had opened the door and sighted Issei.
'Um yeah… shouldn't I be?' Asked Issei in confusion.
'Oh, no, of course not! I was just surprised. Mother usually talks for a while; I wasn't expecting you back for at least another hour.' Said Ravel in embarrassment.
'Well, I didn't really want to leave you all alone for too long, so once we finished with the main reason for her wanting to talk to me, I requested to leave and then she brought me here.' Explained Issei.
'Mother brought you herself?' Asked Ravel in bafflement.
'Um yes?' Said Issei questioningly.
Ravel gave a small jump as a small magic circle appeared next to her ear, giving a few nods here and there. After a moment, she turned to Issei.
'Issei, would you like to have your battle with Sairaorg today?' Asked Ravel curtly.
'Hmm, sure why not.' Said Issei, after a moment of thought.
'In that case, Issei accepts, shall we say one hour from now?' Asked Ravel, communicating through the magic circle.
After another pause, Ravel gave a small nod to herself, before the magic circle disappeared.
'Well, it seems you will be able to fight Sairaorg very soon. In fact, I'm actually quite surprised at how quickly everything has been organised. It seems that a great deal many, wanted to see the Red Dragon, face off against the Strongest Youth.' Said Ravel.
'Not to sound pessimistic, but are you sure you can handle Sairaorg, Issei? He is outrageously strong.' Asked Xenovia, rubbing her stomach in memory of her battle with Sairaorg.
'Well, it has been a while since I fought with anyone, but considering that the last person I've fought with, was Kuroka, an outrageously strong devil in her own right, I think I can handle it.' Said Issei thoughtfully.
'You do have the advantage of being an angel as well.' Added Irina.
'Yeah… but I'm thinking about not using my light powers against him…' Confessed Issei, surprising the others.
'Why?' Asked Irina in confusion.
'Well, it's no secret that most devils aren't too happy with my change, so I was thinking it would be best to keep things under wraps. I still have the Boosted Gear and Senjutsu though, so I don't think I'll be too inconvenienced.' Explained Issei.
'Hmm, well, politically, that is a wise move, but are you sure you can combat Sairaorg otherwise?' Asked Ravel carefully.
'Of course, I might not have the ability to promote, but with Senjutsu, my body is more resistant, my attacks are stronger, and my magical prowess is higher. It is like I am promoting when using it, so I don't really think it will be that difficult for me.' Said Issei.
'Well, no matter what, we'll be cheering you on, right?' Asked Irina.
'Yes, it will be a great battle too.' Added Xenovia.
'Where will the fight be?' Asked Issei.
'The same arena where Sairaorg had his most recent battle.' Said Ravel hesitantly.
'I see, so the same place where Xenovia fought him, fitting, I suppose.' Said Issei calmly.
There was an extended pause at this point, reflecting the awkwardness around avoiding a certain Gremory's name.
'Should we make our way there now then?' Asked Issei.
'Very well, it will take a minute or two to get there if we transport, but it will take a while to set up the circle to carry all of us.' Said Ravel, before Issei plopped himself down beside her.
'*Yawn* Just let me know when it's ready, I might take a small nap now.' Said Issei tiredly, before resting his left elbow on the armrest and then resting his head on his fist, closing his eyes.
-line break-
Issei felt a hand caressing his cheek and leant into it slightly. The hand was soft, soothing and made Issei smile.
'Oh, does that feel good, Issei.' Asked a familiar voice which caused his eyes to snap open.
There in front of him, was not Raynare, but rather, her other form, Yuuma Amano.
'Isn't it bad enough that you taunt me, now you do it in two forms?' Grumbled Issei.
'Fine, fine, I just thought you might appreciate a more innocent face.' Said Yuuma, before morphing back into Raynare.
'*scoff* You are anything but innocent.' Grumbled Issei.
'Oh, come now, Issei, compare me to all the others and you know I am just as innocent. I have to admit though, that lady, she's certainly wordier than I.' Said Raynare, with a smirk.
'I'm not stupid. I know what Lady Phoenix was trying to do.' Said Issei calmly.
Raynare simply tapped her index finger on his nose.
'Yet you didn't call her on it. Sometimes Issei, I wonder if you like being pushed around and played with. First there was me, then Rias, now there's another.' Said Raynare mockingly, causing Issei to growl.
'I hate you so much.' Growled Issei.
'Oh, Issei, your words wound me… or at least they would, if they were true.' Said Raynare, leaning closer to Issei.
'I do hate you.' Insisted Issei, even as Raynare drew closer to him.
'Oh, Issei, we both know that isn't the truth.' Said Raynare, as she leaned in closer to Issei and briefly pressed her lips against his.
Issei quickly pulled back and wiped his lips with his right hand, making Raynare laugh.
'I know you felt it, Issei. You know the truth; you just can't accept it.' Said Raynare mockingly, before fading away.
-line break-
Issei grumbled as his eyes opened. That definitely wasn't one of his better dreams, but considering things, it wasn't his worst. Issei gave a big inhale and stretched his arms up, high over his head, before standing up. It seemed he had been left alone to rest, as Irina, Xenovia and Ravel weren't present. Issei walked to the door and opened it, only to be surprised, at who was on the other side.
'Riser, what are you doing here?' Asked Issei in confusion.
'To take you to the transport point when you woke up of course.' Said Riser, before walking off, with Issei following.
'So… how are things with you recently, Riser?' Asked Issei.
'Your attempt at making small talk is amusing.' Said Riser, with a grin.
'Well sorry for trying to be polite.' Grumbled Issei.
'To answer your question, I've been training. I want to get back into Rating Games sometime soon, so I'm preparing both myself and my peerage.' Said Riser.
'Hmm, I never would have pictured you for the training type.' Confessed Issei.
'I wasn't, considering I had never lost before. I had only ever relied on my immortality, which was usually enough.' Laughed Riser.
'I guess not many devils have access to Holy Water.' Commented Issei, getting Riser to laugh again.
'No, but I do enjoy it, it turns out.' Admitted Riser.
'Holy Water?' Asked Issei in surprise.
'No, of course not. Training. There is something about it which makes me feel more alive. I suppose flames aren't meant to sit still, they are meant to rage and grow.' Said Riser calmly.
'Well, good for you. Maybe next time we fight, you might actually stand a chance of beating me.' Teased Issei.
'As I recall, we are even at one victory each, don't get cocky.' Retorted Riser.
'Huh, I guess that's true. We'll need to have a tiebreaker soon then.' Said Issei thoughtfully.
'Well first, you can fight Sairaorg, I'll be watching in interest as well.' Said Riser, before stopping in front of a door, once again, large and lavish.
'In that case, you're in for quite a show.' Said Issei, with a smirk.
'I'm sure.' Said Riser, before opening the door.
Inside, were Ravel, Xenovia and Irina and in the centre of the room, was a large, yellow, magic circle.
'Oh good, you're here. It's ready to go.' Said Ravel.
'You coming along for the ride, Riser?' Asked Issei.
'Nah, I'll take myself.' Said Riser, before disappearing, with the use of his own magic circle.
'Show off.' Grumbled Issei.
The four walked to the centre of the circle, before Ravel flared her power and the circle activated, rising up from the ground and turning them into particles of light. The group materialised in a spacious floor, with tables and exercise equipment around.
'Hmm, it looks identical.' Commented Xenovia.
'Well, it wouldn't be changed, even for a one-on-one battle. In any case, we will go and watch from the stands. The battle will commence in five minutes, and an announcement will be made. Good luck.' Said Ravel, before the girls left Issei alone.
Issei took deep breaths and waited, calming himself down helped him control his Senjutsu. It was probably what helped lower his lust and gave Ddraig more of a break from his perverted thoughts. Without a calm mind, Senjutsu was dangerous, but with a calm mind, Senjutsu proved an impressive tool.
'Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the special exhibition match today, between the Strongest Youth, Sairaorg Bael and the Red Dragon Emperor, Issei Hyoudou!' Declared the announcer, causing Issei to open his eyes.
'It's time.' Said Issei calmly, as he stood up and walked to his entrance to the stadium.
Issei ignored the announcer as he hyped up the event and explained the specifics of the battle. It didn't matter to Issei too much. Both combatants wouldn't quit and would keep fighting with any injuries they took. Both knew this fight would only end one way: with the other unconscious. Nothing else would suffice. Issei saw Sairaorg march out, raising his right fist into the air. Issei looked up and saw Sairaorg's peerage looking on and cheering their hero. Issei gave a small smile at this, before hearing his own name called out and stepped out into the stadium as well. As Issei made his way towards Sairaorg, he was surprised to only hear cheers. It seemed, even with becoming an angel, the masses were still on his side. A few quick glances around though and Issei noticed the more official looking devils were not happy. Their stony gazes watched Issei carefully, studying his every move.
'Well, Red Dragon, I guess we will finally find out who is the strongest between us.' Said Sairaorg, with a fearless smile.
'The strongest you say.' Commented Issei.
'Indeed, this will be a true test of power.' Continued Sairaorg.
'In that case, what do you think about a purely physical battle? I must admit, it would be unfair of me to use light powers against you… and I don't believe it would be wise of me to do so either.' Propositioned Issei.
'Are you underestimating me, Red Dragon?' Asked Sairaorg, as his smile tightened.
'Of course not, but, I can't be as careless anymore, especially considering where I am. Does it not sound like an even fight? Your Touki and my Senjutsu. We both know little magic and in a one-on-one battle, tactics are not very useful. Why not make this a battle of power? Who can trump the other with their bodies, no fancy or flashy tricks?' Explained Issei.
'Haha, I must admit, that does sound interesting. I truly did want to fight you at your very best, but I can understand not wishing to endanger yourself.' Laughed Sairaorg.
'It isn't myself that I worry for, rather, what may happen to others, to get to me.' Said Issei, with a small frown.
'I see… in that case, I accept you challenge, a battle of pure strength, my blood is boiling already!' Declared Sairaorg.
'Awesome, in that case, shall we begin?' Asked Issei.
Sairaorg smirked, as a weird mark appeared on all four of his limbs. Shallow lights started to pour out from Sairaorg's limbs, before the marks vanished. A huge explosion burst from Sairaorg. The wind pressure from the blast, formed a crater under him. Sairaorg's body was now bathed in a white glow: it was Touki.
Issei stood in front of Sairaorg, within the crater.
'I have to say, I'm impressed. If this was before, I would be hard pressed to match you, even with the Boosted Gear, however, I've not been sitting by idly for the past few weeks.' Commented Issei, before black helical markings spread along his arms, neck and face.
'But I'm not the same person as I was before.' Finished Issei, as the marks seemed to shatter and a reddish-black glow surrounded him. The ground cratered even more around the two, as the audience watched in awe. In particular though, a certain red haired observer watched with a pang of regret.
"Issei… you've become so strong… without us…" Thought Rias sadly.
Sairaorg raised an eyebrow in surprise.
'I must say, I've never seen energy of this colour before.' Commented Sairaorg.
'It comes with being the Red Dragon… and also who trained me. My Senjutsu was rather rough to begin with, but with Ddraig's help along with my instructor, I was able to fit it to myself specifically. It not only draws on my life force, but Ddraig's as well, along with all the past wielders of the Boosted Gear. This is why, even if I do not directly use the Boosted Gear, in this state, I may as well be using it anyway.' Explained Issei.
'How terrifying, you are an interesting person, Issei Hyoudou.' Said Sairaorg, with a wide smile.
'As are you, but enough talk, now, it is time to speak with our fists.' Said Issei, raising his right hand in front of him, red and black energy dancing around it.
'I wouldn't have it any other way.' Said Sairaorg, before both launched their fists at each other.
The crowd instantly flinched, as a massive explosion of light blinded them all momentarily. When the light cleared and everyone regained their vision, the crowd looked on in shock. Behind Issei's right and Sairaorg's left, were deep trenches behind them. The clash of fists had shot through both combatants and tore up the ground.
Issei looked at his fist in surprise for a moment, bringing it back to his face, before smirking. Sairaorg too, gave a smirk, before both disappeared in a flash of light. The stadium was silent, as no one could see or hear anything, before a thunderous echo reverberated through the arena. Issei had launched an elbow at Sairaorg's head, with his right arm, while Sairaorg had blocked it with both palms. Sairaorg swung into action, bring his left fist into an uppercut aimed directly at Issei's solar plexus, only for Issei to harshly swing his right arm down and block the attack with his forearm, causing a massive explosion of energy on impact. The crowd gaped at the power behind each attack, before cheering loudly.
The two disappeared once again, before another thunderous explosion was heard. Sairaorg and Issei had both grappled each other, pushing against the other. It was a perfect stalemate, despite Sairaorg's greater size. The two disappeared again, only to reappear, with their right knees slammed against each other's. In that brief moment, you could notice a smirk of amusement from both of them, before they disappeared again. Numerous explosions continued to ring out throughout the stadium, showing Issei and Sairaorg momentarily for a moment, clashing, before disappearing again.
The crowd roared in excitement, despite only seeing occasional flashes of the battle. After a few minutes of intense clashes, the duo started to slow down and stopped two metres away from each other, both appearing ruffled and slightly out of breath, but still largely uninjured.
'I must say Sairaorg, this is one hell of a fight. I've never faced someone like you before, someone who throws themselves into battle this way.' Commented Issei.
'I agree. It seems the two of us are quite alike. Throwing our bodies into the fight, with reckless abandon.' Agreed Sairaorg, with a grin.
'However, now with the test of speed out of the way, I think it is time to move on to the main event.' Said Issei, as his aura swelled around him, causing wind to blow out from his position, pushing dust away from him.
'I can't wait.' Said Sairaorg, as his power also flared, meeting Issei's in the middle causing a loud clash to reverberate, from their power alone.
-line break-
'Wow, Issei is so strong.' Commented Irina in awe, watching the two release their energy.
'Yes, even when I fought Sairaorg, his power was tremendous, but right now, I can feel it is even higher. I think he must have been training for his fight with Issei intensely, both before our battle and immediately following it.' Added Xenovia.
'I never knew Issei was this strong though…' Muttered Ravel in surprise.
Elsewhere, two glasses clad women were also watching the fight in interest.
'He is a completely different person than before.' Commented Sona, watching with a calculating gaze.
'Not only that, he has yet to use his Sacred Gear. This amount of power is terrifying, both his and Sairaorg's.' Added Tsubaki, Sona's queen.
'Although, I'm sure he didn't plan this, but this will no doubt settle down many of the higher ups, who were disgruntled with recent events. To be this strong without even using his Sacred Gear, a Longinus at that… I don't think anyone would want to anger him.' Added Sona, before refocusing on the fight.
-line break-
'Well Sairaorg, since neither of us is holding back anymore, let me say this in advance, this was a great fight and I look forward to a time, when we can both fight completely unrestrained.' Said Issei, with a smirk.
'Haha, I hope I can have some time to train before then. You truly surpassed my expectations, even without using your powers of light and Balance Breaker, you are almost a match for my full power. It is embarrassing, but also exciting. Keep getting stronger after this and I will do the same.' Said Sairaorg, before his power intensified again, pushing Issei's away and pushing him back slightly.
Issei crossed his arms over his head, as Sairaorg slammed an axe kick down on them. Issei quickly opened his hands and grabbed on to Sairaorg's right leg and swung backwards, slamming Sairaorg into the ground. Sairaorg placed his hands down in front of him, cushioning the blow, in a modified push-up position, before twisting his body, throwing Issei to the side.
Issei flipped in mid-air, slamming his hand on the ground to slow his movement, only to find Sairaorg charging him with a right fist. Issei quickly charged to meet him and at the last moment, gave a right palm thrust to Sairaorg's inner elbow, numbing it temporarily, before twisting his body and launching his left elbow into Sairaorg's gut, stunning him. Sairaorg bent over slightly, looming over Issei's left shoulder, only for Issei to grab the back of Sairaorg's head in between his hands and run forward, before falling to the ground, slamming Sairaorg's head against the ground, Issei's back hitting it as well.
Issei quickly flipped over Sairaorg and grabbed him around the waist, before giving a mighty heave and suplexed the larger fighter over his head, slamming him head first into the ground. Issei didn't let go after his manoeuvre and picked Sairaorg up again, quickly turned around, before hefting Sairaorg up and harshly down, into another suplex. Sairaorg quickly brought his legs up and slammed them into Issei's chest, breaking his hold, before roughly getting to his feet, blood trickling down his forehead, from a cut within his hairline.
Sairaorg charged Issei again, this time, with a palm thrust of his own, and slammed it into Issei's right shoulder, spinning him, before launching a side kick into the small of Issei's back, propelling him towards the stadium wall. Issei slammed into the wall harshly, with a crunch, causing quite a few to cringe, at what sounded like bones breaking.
Issei pulled himself out of the wall, only for Sairaorg to suddenly appear behind him and push his face back into the wall.
The wall suddenly vibrated, as Issei gave a deep growl and launched his right elbow back, nailing Sairaorg in his ribs, before spinning and launching a roundhouse kick, which sent Sairaorg into the stadium wall to Issei's left. Issei took the brief reprieve to crack his nose back into place, grimacing as he did so, before spitting out a wad of blood, from when he had bit his cheek, when Sairaorg slammed him into the wall the second time.
Sairaorg clambered out of the wall as well, spitting out a wad of blood, as he moved his jaw around carefully.
Issei grinned, before rushing Sairaorg again and tackled him into the wall. Issei somersaulted back, avoiding Sairaorg's downward punch at his back, before launching a push kick into Sairaorg's chest, slamming him back into the wall and digging further into the construct. Sairaorg then grabbed Issei's ankle and twisted. Issei turned with the motion, to avoid having his ankle shattered, but couldn't protect himself from Sairaorg's elbow slamming into his knee, causing him to cry out in pain, as the joint barely held on, under the immense power. Placing his hands on the ground, Issei twisted his legs, hoping to throw Sairaorg, but he released Issei's leg and slammed his fist into Issei's gut, cratering the ground under him and causing spittle and blood to fly from Issei's mouth.
Issei recovered quickly and grabbed Sairaorg's arm, before throwing him over his legs, back towards the centre of the stadium. Issei pushed as much energy into his legs as they could handle and charged after Sairaorg. As Sairaorg's body flew through the air, Issei was upon him and launched numerous punches along his torso, before disappearing once again and reappearing in front of where Sairaorg was flying. Issei crouched down and waited for Sairaorg to reach him, before launching a back kick into Sairaorg's back, launching him into the air. Sairaorg groaned at the recent onslaught he had experienced, before widening his eyes slightly, as Issei has appeared above him.
'Take this!' Shouted Issei, before slamming a double axe handle, right into Sairaorg's gut, sending him flying to the ground.
The crowd gaped at the massive explosion that occurred, when Sairaorg impacted with the ground. The walls themselves were already cracked and would need repairs after the fight. The ground was cratered in numerous places and many wondered if the stadium would even last the match.
Issei slowly fell to the ground, creating a small crater on impact when he landed and dropping down to one knee, breathing heavily. Blood was still running down his nose and out of his mouth. Issei ripped off his school blazer, wondering why he hadn't clothed himself in something more appropriate for fighting, as he then ripped off his white, long-sleeved dress shirt, leaving him clad in his red T-shirt, showing his muscles and also, quite a few welts on his arms, from blocking Sairaorg's hits, as well as the impact of launching his own attacks. His pants were also frayed, revealing his ankles and the lower part of his shins.
Sairaorg groaned, as he stood up from the crater, taking a full ten seconds to get back to a vertical base. His white vest was in tatters after the onslaught it had taken and his black bodysuit was torn in many places, revealing fresh blood, dripping from his arms.
'I must say… this has been one of the most enjoyable and also most painful fights I've ever experienced. You are truly a worthy opponent, so much so, that I no longer feel worthy to witness your full power, if I'm losing this badly when you are handicapped.' Said Sairaorg, panting as he did so.
'Well, you're not making it easy for me either.' Chuckled Issei weakly.
'I'm not sure how much longer my body will hold together, so what do you say to one last attack, to finish this?' Propositioned Sairaorg.
'Sure, why not.' Agreed Issei, with a grin.
The crowd had been cheering wildly for the past ten minutes, but neither Issei, not Sairaorg could hear them anymore. They were too immersed in their battle to care.
Issei and Sairaorg both gathered energy to their right fists, their auras concentrating solely to their fists, leaving the rest of their bodies. Fatigue was setting in for both and just doing this was a task, but do it they did. Issei stood to his feet and Sairaorg strengthened his stance. The two faced off, both grinning fearlessly, before they burst at each other. The two reared their fists back and swung, causing an explosion of energy and blinding everyone temporarily. As the spots dancing in everyone's vision started to fade, they saw Issei with his right fist lodged into Sairaorg's gut, a solid uppercut to the solar plexus, doubling him over slightly. Sairaorg had launched a wicked cross, right into Issei's jaw, tilting his head to the side. There was silence for a moment, as the crowd waited with baited breath to see who would fall. Issei dropped to his right knee, stopping himself from meeting the ground with his left fist. The crowd was just about to cheer for Sairaorg's victory, when the devil, wobbled unsteadily on his feet and fell, right onto Issei's shoulder.
'You're amazing Sairaorg. You were barely holding on at the end there. You took my hit and weren't even conscious anymore, but you still managed to land your blow on me. You are truly a worthy opponent as well.' Muttered Issei.
Issei weakly raised himself and Sairaorg to their feet, before raising his left fist high into the sky, in victory. The crowd's roar was deafening, eardrum shattering. A fight such as this was truly worthy of praise and the spectators showed it. Issei struggled to carry Sairaorg away, before Sairaorg's queen, a beautiful blonde-haired girl, came and took him from Issei, despite the difference in size between the two.
Issei breathed a sigh of relief, and turned towards his waiting room. He took one step, before his eyes closed and fell forward: unconscious.