9 – Clash Between Titans
DISCLAIMER
The following is a fan-based story of Fiction
Highschool DxD, New, BorN, Hero and other products related to the DxD series are all owned by Ichiei Ishibumi, Miyama-Zero, Fujimi Shobo and TNK
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NOTE! This Story is recommended for those over the age of 18+ as this story involves actions such as violence, blood, nudity, etc.
NOTE! Any Original Characters (OC's) added into the story were all created by me and are owned by me
Enjoy!
The stage was set for Rias and her peerage to take on Riser Phenex. As they all sat in the ORC, they were all doing there own things to calm their nerves. Rias and Akeno were drinking tea, Kiba was cleaning his blade as he now sported arm and shin guards. Koneko was doing her usual, eating a piece of chocolate, except now...she was sat on Takeda's lap.
He didn't mind it, as he was doing his usual source of calmness. Meditation. Not only that, but Takeda was wearing something new, a gift Iruku had called it. He is now wearing blue robes, with purple and black layers underneath. He isn't wearing a top underneath the robes, giving a small view to his upper body. The robe parts at his legs, giving view to the baggy black pants, tucked into armored boots. His arms are also covered by guards, which are attached to black sleeves. The sleeves reach far up his hands, acting also as fingerless gloves. Unlike his usual messy hair, Takeda's hair is now combed down, falling freely down his back, his two frontal bangs helping to frame his face.
The group was awaiting not only on Issei and Asia, but also Grayfia. As a means for the others of the group, Raynare was with Sona and Tsubaki, who were helping broadcast the Rating Game. This way, the she could watch the game as well.
Soon enough, Issei and Asia walked in, and as he saw them all, Issei couldn't help but give a small smile.
"Of course, our amazing leader shows no fear." Issei said, before noticing Koneko sat on Takeda's lap, still eating her chocolate. Issei gave Takeda a glare filled with jealousy, before Grayfia appeared, a stoic expression on her face as usual.
"It is time." She stated, as everyone stood up slowly. "I would also like to announce that the Great Devil Lucifer will be watching this game." Grayfia said, shocking the fellow Devils in the room.
"Oh...? Brother dearest..." Rias muttered.
"Hold on, did I hear wrong or did you just say brother!?" Issei asked in shock.
"No, you heard right. Rias' older brother is the Current Great Devil Lucifer." Kiba said. "Sirzechs Lucifer. A man who at birth held so much demonic power, it could barely be contained."
"But wouldn't he be Sirzechs Gremory?" Asia asked in confusion.
"That would be the case but at least seven decages ago, their was a civil war between the Devils, and the Old Satan Faction. They believed they were the rightful rules of the Underworld after the death of the previous Satans. Four new Satans were needed to be chosen after the War, and so, Sirzechs was chosen to hold the title of Lucifer. He's at this point considered a Super Devil." Kiba explained.
A magic circle appeared near the door, large enough to cover over half the room.
"This magic circle will take you all to the battlefield. I wish you all good luck." Grayfia said, as everyone stepped onto the magic circle. Slowly, everyone was transported.
Takeda reopened his eyes, and saw himself and the others still in the clubroom. Something was different, however. The amount of demonic energy in the air was much more easier to feel.
"Huh? Did I mess it up or something?" Issei asked, but Takeda shook his head. He walked over to the window, opening them to show the multicolored sky. The main color seen was a light green, as other colors mixed together all over the lands.
Grayfia proceeded to give out instructions, detailing the bases and any needed information, as communication devices were handed out between the group. The group stood around the table set in the middle of the room.
"First, we have to take down Raiser's Pawns. it will be troublesome if they all promote into Queens."
"President, you seem pretty calm." Issei said to Rias with a wondering look on his face.
"The Rating Game has a meaning only if you use the battlefield to the fullest. Usually the base would be a fortress, a castle or even a tower. There are forests and rivers between the two bases and we battle using those areas. This time the school is our stage. Yuuto."
"Yes."
Kiba then came over with a map of the school that is gridded like a chessboard, and he spread it out on the table in front of them. Rias then started marking both their and the enemies bases, she then looked towards them and stated.
"There's a forest near our base. It's safe to assume that this is also our territory. In other words, the new school building would be Riser's territory. It's quite possible that there will be an ambush when you enter their territory. The school field is visible from the new school building. So it's dangerous to pass through here."
"Then do we have to go through the sports ground to get to the new school building?" Issei asked.
"Normally, yes. But the enemy will also know that. So he'll have his servant positioned at the sports ground. He'll have his Knight and Rook positioned at one of the club room's located in the sports ground. No, if it's a sports ground, you will need a person with mobility. So he'll have one Knight and three Pawns, a total of four servants positioned here. Then he'll have control of the whol sports ground."
Kiba looked at the map, pointing towards the gym.
"President, it's about the gym near the old school building. Shouldn't we occupy this location first? If we capture it here then we will have a route to the new school building. The gym is a passage to both of the buildings so we could also restrain the enemy's movements."
Rias nodded to Kiba's words.
"Yes, I also have the same opinion. First we will capture the gym...In terms of location, the opponent may have his Rook positioned there. Since it's inside the building, it would be better to use the Rook with destructive power over Knight with mobility."
After stating this, Rias turned her attention towards Kiba and Koneko.
"...Yuuto, Koneko, you two set a trap in the forest. Take another map with you and make sure you mark the places where you set the trap in. I will make a copy afterwards and hand it to everyone."
"Yes."
"Got it."
Both Kiba and Koneko left the room, but not before taking a map along with them, as well as a weird looking tool box. Rias then turned back to the others.
"Everyone else will be on standby until they finish settingup the trap. Oh, Akeno."
"Yes, president?"
"After Yuuto and Koneko return, can you cast illusions and mists around the forest and the sky? Obviously a trap that only reacts to Riser's group. That's how the start of the match will be like, though it seems like this battle will become intense midway through it. So I'll leave the issue regarding the mists and the illusions to you, Akeno."
"I understand, President."
"President? Do you need me to do anything?" Issei asked.
"No, not at the moment. But, Ise since you're a Pawn you'll need to use Promotion."
"Right!"
Rias then turned towards Takeda, who had a magic circle right in front of him. From it appeared Ophion in his miniature snake form.
"Been a while, Ophion."
"That is has, Nakamura Takeda. We are in the Rating Game you spoke of, correct?" The serpent asked.
"That's right. We could use your help."
"I am your familiar, it is my job to help you. What do you need me to do?" Ophion asked.
"I just want you to keep watch on the enemy from the ground. If there's movement near someone on our team, we need to know. Relay it to me and I'll get it known to the rest of the group." Takeda spoke.
"I see. Then I shall do just that." Ophion moved over towards the open window, turning back to Takeda. "I wish you luck, Nakamura Takeda." The raven haired Devil nodded as the snake slid down the building wall, practically blending in with the grass and dirt covered grounds.
"Takeda." The young man turned to see Rias looking at him. "Your performance in this Rating Game is critical. Your showing in the clubroom let Riser know you're the key to our victory. Even then, don't feel like you can't rely on the rest of us, alright?"
Takeda nodded his head in agreement. He then noticed Rias sitting on the couch, patting the spot next to her. She smiled at him lightly, before he walked over and sat next to her. His eyes widened lightly as she pulled him into a hug.
"Listen, Keda. You have to beat your opponents no matter what, okay? You can't hold back, as they won't hold back against you."
"I understand. We'll win no matter what." Takeda said.
"I'm counting on it." Rias said, releasing the hug. She looked towards Issei, seeing him glaring at Takeda while Asia pouted at Issei. She couldn't help but smile at the sight. "I'll be relying on you. Do your absolute best."
"Yes, president." With a smile, Rias turned to Issei.
"Ise, come here please." Quickly, Issei ran to the couch, taking Takeda's place as he stood and leaned by the door. Slowly, Rias placed Issei's head on her lap, before her hand was placed on the side of his head. "When I first brought you back to life, I had used all of my pawn pieces to do so. However, your body couldn't handle the power that came with it. Due to the training you did with Iruku and Takeda, your body can handle more of it. I won't release all eight, but I'll be able to release 4 of them. Continue to grow stronger, and eventually I'll be able to release them all. Can you do that, Ise?"
"O-Of course. I'll become really strong in no time!" Rias gave off a giggle, as she took her hand away from his head. Slowly, Issei sat up, as Rias gave him a smile.
"I'll be looking forward to it."
Meanwhile, within a viewing room in the Underworld, a group of Devils are watching the screens with interest. The first person in the room is a middle-aged, handsome looking man with long crimson red hair that is tied in a loose ponytail with a black hairband. He has bright blue eyes. He also has a short and red beard or stubble.
The next is young woman with flaxen brown hair and violet eyes. Her appearance could be considering very similar to that of Rias', just with shorter brown hair. Sited next to her is a handsome man who seems to be in his early 20's. He has shoulder length crimson red hair and blue-green eyes.
"This should be interesting." The woman spoke. "From what Rias said when she contacted me, she and her peerage had some special help during their training." She stated.
"Is that so, Venelana?" The bearded man asked with a raised eyebrow. "Any idea who?"
"Not a clue. She didn't specify when we spoke."
"I'm hurt Venelana. I'm sure you were able to sense my energy when you two spoke." Another voice spoke. All heads turned to the doorway, to see Iruku leaned against the door frame.
"King Iruku? My, it's been quite a few years since we last saw you." The other crimson haired male said, standing up and greeting Iruku with a handshake.
"It has, hasn't it Sirzechs?" Iruku said, turning to Venelana. "Lana, so good to see you again. How long has it been?"
"Far too long, I'm afraid." Venelana spoke with a small laugh. "So, you helped my daughter?"
"That wasn't the original plan, but I did help some of her group. After all, my student is a member of her peerage." He spoke, turning his eyes to the screen. The Devils followed his eyes, seeing him looking towards Takeda, who was on the move with Issei and Koneko.
"You know of him?"
"Hmmm...I met him long before he became a Devil under Rias. He called upon my help, and I've never been one to turn down a student." Iruku spoke, taking a seat on one of the couches. "For now, let us enjoy the game. I'm sure it'll be quite the thrill."
Back within the Rating Game arena, Takeda, along with Issei and Koneko, had just arrived at the gym. Rias originally wanted the three of them to disable the movements of any enemies in the gym so Akeno could take them out in one fell swoop.
Those plans were dropped though, as it would take lots of Akeno's stamina for just that one attack. The three of them were free to take down all enemies with no remorse.
The group of three walked in through the back entrance and onto the stage, hidden behind the red curtains.
"...Presence. Enemy." Koneko muttered.
"We know you're there, servants of Gremory! We watched you come in." A voice spoke. The three allowed themselves to be seen, seeing 4 enemies before them. A young woman with black hair dressed in a chinese styled dress, a set of twins with light green hair, and the girl known as Mira that attempted to attack Issei in the clubroom.
"Boosted Gear, standby."
[Boost!]
"Issei, you take the twins. Koneko, can you handle the Rook?" Takeda turned to the neko, who allowed her ears and tail to appear.
"Don't worry about me, I'll handle her." Koneko said, receiving a nod. Takeda's eyes fell on Mira.
"Then that leaves me with the other Pawn." Takeda said. Koneko and the fellow Rook both took stances before they charged at one another. Issei led the twins to the other side of the gym, while Takeda and Mira stared one another down.
With Issei, he held a shocked expression on his face as the twins both pulled out chainsaws.
"Disassembling time." The two said at the same time. Issei was slightly creeped out by their cheeful tones, before he had to begin dodging their attacks.
"Split, split, split, split, split!" They both said.
[Boost!]
Issei felt his power increase a bit, as he continued to effortlessly dodge their attacks. He could see it in their eyes they were beginning to grow frustrated.
'I guess Iruku-sensei's training really was worth it...I feel so light on my feet now!' Issei thought to himself, remembering back on their 10 days of training, specifically the last day and what Iruku told him.
"We may not have unlocked the Balance Breaker, but your ability with your Sacred Gear has grown much more. I'm sure Takeda has told you the saying himself. A loss means you have room to grow. Take parts of that saying, you still have room to grow even if you are eliminated from the Rating Game. Learn from it, and become something better."
Issei knew it himself, he would have to pull back on his usual tendencies, perhaps it would be for the best in order for him to focus on growing stronger.
'We'll win this, and then...I'll prove I can be called your rival, Takeda...!' He thought.
"Ah, geez! This is so frustrating~!"
"Why isn't it hitting him!?"
[Boost!]
Issei allowed a smirk to grow on his face as he hearad the third boost from his Sacred Gear. He held his hand out.
"Let's do this, Boosted Gear!"
[Explosion!]
Issei felt overwhelming power begin to surround his entire body, as he smirked and started his own counterattack.
"I'll take care of you first!" He shouted, charging at one of the twins, appearing in front of her and knocking her towards the ground with a stiff shoulder tackle.
"You! How dare you hit my onee-chan!"
The other twin charged towards Issei with her chainsaw, but Issei rotated his body around and dodged her attack. With a swift hit to the back of her neck, she fell to the ground unconscious.
"Within the human body, there are certain weak spots. Hit them, and long lasting damage will be done to them. It'll give you an advantage in a fight. If possible, you could try to attack the pressure points of the body to knock the opponent unconscious."
Issei rememberd Takeda's words, smiling at seeing how right his supposed rival was. Speaking of his fellow Devil, Issei turned and witnessed Takeda, with a spear in hand, block a strike from Mira.
He used his own spear to push hers down to the ground, before kicking it to the side. Her eyes widened in shock, before Takeda hit her with a spinning sidekick. The force of it alone pushed her back and against the wall, groaning in pain before she fell unconscious.
Both males turned to see Koneko had finished off her opponent, as all four enemies disappeared in a blue light.
[Riser Phenex, three Pawns and one Rook, retired]
"Woah, what happened?" Issei asked, confused at what he just saw.
"It's how they take people out of the game when they can't fight any longer." Koneko explained, earning an 'oooh' in response.
[Ise, Koneko, Keda. Can you hear me?]
The voice of Rias was heard from their communication devices.
"We're here Rias. Hear you loud and clear. We've just finished our opponents here." Takeda explained.
"That's good to hear. Kiba should be done with those Sif found in the forest soon enough. I'll want for you three to meet up with him at the sports ground.]
"Understood." Takeda answered. He turned to the others, who both nodded as they all left the gym. As they moved along the ground, Takeda heard the voice of Ophion in his head.
"Look out from above!"
Within the small amount of time he held, Takeda grabbed both Issei and Koneko. he grew a pair of shadow arms along his ribcage, using them to give him a boost, as he pushed himself and the other two away from the area.
A large blast hit the ground, causing rubble and dust to fly high in the air. Takeda got to his feet quickly, looking up to the sky. There he saw Riser's Queen, staff in hand.
"Fufufu, great reflexes, I must say." She spoke, lowering near the ground. "Being honest, I expected to take you all out here and now, and you foiled that plan."
Takeda didn't answer her, as a bolt of lightning, struck her, surrounding Riser's queen in a cloud of smoke.
Once it cleared, it showed she had been hit, as there were tears near the bottom of her clothing. Akeno neared them, lightning still crackling in her hand.
"Ara ara. I will be your opponent. Riser Phenex's Queen, Yubelluna. Or should I call you the 'Bomb Queen'?"
"I don't quite like that name because of its bad taste, 'Priestess of Lightning'. Though I was hoping I could fight you." Yubelluna spoke.
"Ise, Takeda, meet up with Yuuto. Koneko and myself will take care of her here." Akeno spoke.
"B-But-!"
"Ise. You have your own role, correct? Go then. This matter here is my job." Akeno said. Issei looked to argue again, but Takeda placed his hand on his shoulder.
Don't worry, she's got Koneko to back her up." Takeda said. Slowly, Issei gave a nod, as Takeda looked towards Akeno. "Good luck you two."
"We'll be fine, Keda. Believe in us." Akeno said, making Takeda smirk, as he and Issei slowly ran off to the sports ground. As they neared, an announcement was heard.
[Riser Phenex, three Pawns retired]
As the two continued running to their destination, they found Kiba knelt down just near the sports grounds.
"Hey Ise, Takeda."
"Kiba." Takeda greeted back.
"Was it you who defeated the enemy Pawns?" Issei asked, recieving a nod.
"Yeah. The clubroom located at the sports court is an important location. So it's natural that there are lots of enemies. I managed to lure the Pawns that were keeping their eyes over there and took them down. But the person in charge of this location is quite calm and hasn't responded to my provocation. Well, it seems like she used the Pawns to watch my attacks. Seems like Riser likes to battle by sacrificing his servants. It's something only he is able to pull off because of his immortality and the number of servants he has."
Takeda took to scanning the area, as his eyes landed on every shadow within the area.
"One Knight, one Bishop, one Rook." He stated.
"You can tell?" Issei asked.
"It's an ability I have. Shadow Sense. If someone is within the shadows, I can feel them and where they are. As long as they are within a certian range. The more I train, the longer than range becomes." Takeda explained.
"Interesting. Well, it looks like we got an even number on both sides for no, but in terms of offense, we have the upper hand."
"I did place a trap at the Gym, so if any of our opponents go there, it should deal with them. If not, then Ophion should be more than enough to handle them. Hopefully it won't come to that." Takeda stated.
Just as Kiba as about to speak, another voice spoke.
"I'm the Knight of Riser Phenex, Karlamine! I've become bored of trying to sniff through each other's strategy! Rias Gremory's Knight! I challenge you to a duel!"
All three looked over to the baseball court to where there was a young woman clad in armor standing there.
"Since she introduced herself, I can't hide myself both as a Knight and as a swordsmen." Takeda went to call him back, but he had already walked out. Takeda sighed, deciding it would be best to help him if needed, as he and Issei stepped out as well.
"I'm the Knight of Rias Gremory, Kiba Yuuto."
"I'm the Pawn, Hyoudou Issei."
"Nakamura Takeda."
"i'm happy that there are warriors like you three in Rias Gremory's group. Coming out here directly from the front. That's something people with normal sanity won't do." She spoke.
"Coming from the girl who's standing in the middle of a field and leaving herself open to an ambush." Takeda stated with a sigh, as Karlamine drew her sword from its sheath, Kiba doing the same with a slight smirk on his face.
"The match between Knights. I have been waiting for this. Personally, I would like to fight in an intense sword fight." Kiba spoke.
"Well said! Rias Gremory's Knight!"
Both charged at each other with great speed as their swords started clashing, sparks flying into the air. As they were watching the battle, Takeda sighed while rubbing his head.
"I told him about something like this..." He muttered.
"You seem bored."
Takeda and Issei both turned their heads and saw a young woman wearing a half face mask, near her being a young girl with blonde hair styles in drill shaped curls, as she wears a pink western dress. She then looked towards Issei with a slight calculative expression.
"Hey mario, I found your princess..." Takeda muttered, earning a slight laugh from Issei at the small joke.
"So, this is the special Boosting Piece's taker?" She asked, looking towards Takeda. He stared back at her, his gaze hardened. "Please don't look at me in such a way, for I won't be your opponent. Isabela, why don't you be his opponent?"
"I was planning to in the first place. Now then, let's fight since we are both bored."
"Wait a minute! What about her, why isn't she gonna fight!?" Issei called out, an accusing finger pointed at the blonde.
"Because, she's Riser's little sister. Lady Ravel Phenex." Issei and Takeda looked a bit in shock. "Now then, here I come!" Isabela yelled, charging Takeda.
"Issei, you may want to move."
"Got it." Issei jumped back, as Takeda caught an incoming fist. He pushed the palm of his hand against her stomach, sending her skidding back. It wasn't to do any serious damage, just a simple way as to create space.
He took his own Kung Fu stance, awaiting for Isabela to charge again. She did just that, launching strikes from unpredictable angles. Had it not been for his incredible reflexes, he would have probably been hit by a few. Every time he dodged, she threw another. Finally, she went for a kick, but instead of dodging it, Takeda grabbed her leg.
"Waah-!" She barely got her scream out, as Takeda forcefully made her flip, and as she was mid air, he jumped and kicked her straight in the ribcage. She tumbled a few feet back, as Takeda kept his stance.
His senses picked up on the sound of the wind. He turned, seeing Kiba's blade was being blown apart by Karlamine's sword, which was surrounded by flames.
"Unfortunately, your Sacred Gear won't work on me." She stated with a smirk.
"Then I will also tell you this. Unfortunately, this isn't everything of my Sacred Gear." Kiba retorted.
"What? Nonsense. Knight of Gremory, it's unsightly for a swordsman to..."
"...Freeze." Kiba's sword began to be surrounded by ice, and formed into an all new blade completely made out of ice. "In front of this sword, 'Flame Delete', all types of fire will disappear."
"A-Absurd! Are you telling me that you have to Sacred Gear!?"
As the two blades clashed against one another, Karlamine's sword was completely turned into ice and shattered. With a low growl, she threw the handle away, latching onto a short dagger from the strap on her hip.
"We are members of the almighty House of Phenex that ruke over fire and wind! Taste it! The whirlwind of fire!"
From out of nowhere, a large amount of wind and fire engulfed the area in front of Karlamine, creating a large whirlwind that began to get closer and closer to even her own comrades.
"That Karlamine. Has she forgotten that her allies are here as well!?" Isabela yelled out, shielding herself from large winds. Possibly so sharp they could cut through their skin.
Kiba's ice made blade was then melted away to nothing, but he still held a smirk on his face as he held the handle tightly.
"I see...you are trying to burn us with the whirlwind of fire...but..."
Kiba's sword changed once again, into a sword with a open circle in the middle of the blade, as the flames were sloly sucked into the hole, completely disappearing.
"Replenish Calm. It's been awhile since I last showwed more than two Demonic swords for one battle." Kiba stated , as Karlamine looked in shock.
"...Mulitple Sacred Gears. Are you a Sacred Gear possessor who takes the weapons of other Sacred Gear users and makes it their own?" She asked, but Kiba shook his head.
"I don't have multiple Sacred Gears. I also don't take the Sacred Gears of others and make them my own. I created it."
"Created...it?"
"Yes. Sword Birth. I can make any type of Demonic swords. That is the name of my Sacred Gear and its true ability." Kiba stated.
Takeda took in the information, never truly knowing that there was another Sacred Gear user within the peerage. He turned back to his own opponent, seeing her just as shocked. With a sigh, he made multiple hand gestures, before placing his right palm on the ground.
"Grave Bolt, Drain the clouds..." He muttered, as a giant magic circle appeared under him. Isabela turned back to him, as Ravel looked towards him as well. Dark clouds appeared above in the sky, as more magic circles appeared, stacking upon one another as they raised to the skies above.
"Isabela! Defeat him, now! He has the power to change the outcome of the battle!" Ravel called out.
"Affirmative! I will take him down before that happens!" The Rook charged again, but Takeda smirked once she did.
[Night...]
What sounded like thousands of voices speaking called out, all holding a dark and ominous sound to them. Takeda's Sacred Treasure appeared, the young man using it for the first time since the Rating Game started.
Isabela neared, as the already slit pupil sharpened even more, black veins pulsating around his right eye. Isabela didn't notice it, but his hands had been held near each other the entire time, a bit of space between them as if he'd clap.
Once Isabela was close enough, Takeda pushed himself back. Once the enemy Rook was in between the magic circles, Takeda clasped his hands together.
"Detinate.." He muttered, as the clouds above shot a dozen lightning bolts in the middle of the magic circles, though they held shadows around themselves The shadows made the lightning bolts look like one and in the shape of a dragon. The bolts hit the ground, a giant dust cloud was created, as the screams of Isabela could be heard from within the cloud of dust and smoke.
[Riser Phenex, one Rook, retired]
Takeda's Sacred Treasure disappeared, as Ravel stared at the dust cloud in shock.
"Apparently, Isabela and I have been taking that Special Piece too lightly. Just like I thought, I shouldn't take him as an ordinary piece. But a Demonic Sword wielder...what fortune. I may have a destiny of meeting swordsmen who wield special swords." Karlamine spoke.
"Hmm, so there is someone besides me who uses demonic swords?"
"No, it wasn't a demonic sword. It was an Excalibur."
At that moment, Kiba's expression completely changed, as he leaked killing intent from his entire body causing great confusion to Issei and Takeda.
"Tell me about that Excalibur."
"Hmm, seems like that swordsman has some connected to you. But since we are swordsmen, talking would be rude. I will answer you with my sword!"
"...Is that right...If your mouth can move, then it won't be a problem even if you turn into a state where you are on the verge of death." With those words spoke, Kiba charged her, as they began to clash swords again.
"What's up with Kiba?"
Takeda wondered the same thing, but he heard more enemies approaching.
"So it's here."
"Huh? Where's Isabela?"
"Don't tell me she was defeated?"
The two turned and saw a total of four enemies. Two more Pawns, a Bishop, and the other Knight.
"Seems like my brother made a challenge since Rias was doing well in this battle unexpectedly. It would have been our win if we fought normally, so he gave her pity. Though, it seems she hasn't accepted." Ravel spoke.
"Continue to underestimate us, and you'll be quite shocked with the outcome of this battle." Takeda told her.
"The Crimson-Haired Ruin-Princess, Priestess of Lightning, Sword Birth, Boosted Gear, and the Goddess's Eye. Just hearing the names gives me chills. But your opponent is the Immortal Bird. No matter what kind of power you have, it means nothing against the Immortal Bird-"
"That's where you're wrong." Takeda interupted her. "Sure, your House holds a name similar to the great Phoenix, but your powers are nothing compared to the real thing. See, I did some research, and in truth, your body is what's immortal, but your mind...that's a whole other story."
"Then are you saying you are going to beat him until he loses the will to fight? Or are you going to defeat him with a strike that rivals God? Are you trying to win this match?" Ravel asked many questions.
"You have no idea just what I can do..." He told her. Ravel sighed, turning to Karlamine.
"Karlamine. I will leave that Knight boy to you, but if you lose we wown't fight in one-on-one. We will defeat him together. Or are you trying to lower the name of Phenex? Siris."
"Affirmative." The other knight stepped closer, walking towards Issei.
"She is my brothers other Knight. Unlike Karlamine over there, she doesn't have any of that 'honor of a Knight.' She will defeat her opponent. Just like that."
"Takeda, you need to save your strength for Riser. Let me handle the rest here." Issei called out, as Siris charged him. Takeda looked at him with a raised eyebrow, but still nodded in agreement. "Kiba! Release your Sacred Gear!"
"Rias...start moving towards Riser..." Takeda said into his communication device.
[Are you certain, Takeda?] The voice of Rias called.
"Positive. We're expecting things to be done here in no time. Trust me." Rias didn't give a response, but Takeda did hear the sounds of movement on the other end.
"What?" Was Kiba's response to Issei.
"Just do it! Trust me!"
Kiba still held a raised eyebrow, but did as he was asked.
[Dragon Booster - Second Liberation]
"Sword Birth!" Kiba yelled, stabbing his sword into the ground. At the same time, Issei slammed his gauntlet covered hand against the ground.
"Boosted Gear, Gift!" He yelled, before a large sea of demonic swords started coming from the ground and nearly engulfing the entire field. Takeda allowed his shock to show, as he took to the skies to not be skewered himself.
Some of the swords stabbed the servants of Riser, each spitting out a bit of blood from the fatal attacks.
"...Impossible."
"Are you telling me this is the power of a Dragon...?"
[Riser Phenex, two Pawns, two Knights, one Bishop, retired]
Kiba himself looked around with a surprised expression on his face, along with Takeda who allowed himself to land on the ground next to his two comrades.
"Ise. I'm surprised. This power..." Kiba muttered.
"Yeah. I used the Boosted Gear to strengthen your own Sacred Gear, resulting in...well, this."
"Who would've thought you had such an ability." Takeda said. "Good work."
[Riser Phenex, Queen, retired]
Both Kiba and Issei grew smiles, while Takeda allowed a small smirk to appear on his face.
"All that's left is the King and Bishop." Takeda stated, earning a confused look from Issei.
"What're you...?"
"She avoided the attack." Takeda pointed towards Ravel, who held a shocked expression on her face.
"What happened? Yubelluna was supposed to have the Phenex Tears."
"Your Phenex Tears won't do much against the power of senjutsu." Takeda said, making her look towards him. "Our Rook is able to use it, and from what I've learned, it's able to stop certain factors within the human body. I did tell you that you would be surprised with the outcome of this battle if you continued to underestimate us."
"Takeda, you and Issei go on ahead." Kiba said, making the raven haired devil turn to him.
"You sure?"
"Positive. Besides, we'd probably only be in the way. You got this." Kiba said. Takeda and Issei looked to one another, nodding before running off. As they did so, Akeno and Koneko appeared beside Kiba. "Iruku said it himself. Those two are the key to our victory. I'm fine with putting my trust in them..." He muttered. Akeno and Koneko both smiled, nodding in agreement.
On the roof of the main school building, Rias and Riser stood across one another, Asia stood behind Rias a few ways back. They had been at it for only five minutes now, and the continuous regeneration was definitely an annoyance.
But...Rias remembered the talk she held with Iruku.
"You will only need to hold him off until Takeda and Issei arrive. I don't know for sure what it is, but they possess something to handle Riser."
Being able to hold off Riser as well, she wouldn't have lasted this long had she not taken her own training seriously. Her stamina had been increased by tenfold, as did her power.
"Give it up, Rias. No matter what you do, you won't win this battle. It matters not if my peerage has been defeated, nothing beats the immortal Phenex!" Riser proclaimed.
Rias kept her composure. She knew letting his words getting to her would only result in her making a fatal mistake. She couldn't allow that to happen. Attack when needed, and dodge any and all attacks, that was what she needed to do.
"Your words won't change my decisions, Riser." She simply stated, earning a sigh from Riser. He summoned more flames, making Rias ready her own attack back.
"Then I'll force you out!" He yelled throwing the flames. As they neared Rias, black flames rained down, causing the two to cancel each other out. "What the-!"
Takeda and Issei landed in front of Rias, Sacred Gear and Treasure out for Riser to see.
"Sorry if we're a little late." Takeda said as he looked back towards Rias. She simply smiled and shook her head.
"Not at all. Right on time, actually." She responded, as Takeda turned back towards Riser, who looked at him with a scowl on his face.
"Just the one I wanted to see, just so I could make you understand not to disrespect your betters." Riser said, making Takeda smirk.
"I don't see anyone like that here." Takeda simply stated. With a loud roar, Riser appeared near, fire in hand as he launched it at Take- no, he launched it at Rias.
Takeda's left eye sharpened, as he dashed back, grabbing onto Rias as Issei latched onto Asia, the two jumping away. He held Rias bridal style, Issei doing the same for Asia. They landed back near the ground near the others.
"You all may wanna back up." They all looked at him in confusion, before they heard yelling.
"You damn brat!" Riser launched himself at Takeda, tackling him away from the rest of them. They crashed through a bunch of the school building's walls. Takeda didn't budge though, keeping his defenses up as Riser threw punch after punch.
Finally they stopped, finding themselves in the main area of the school building, right near the stairs leading to the second floor.
"Tell me, you brat. Why fight so hard in this? In a situation that has nothing to do with you!? Tell me!" Riser yelled out, as Takeda kept his gaze hardened.
"Why should my answer matter?" Takeda retorted.
"Huh?"
"This entire marriage itself is a complete waste of time, and completely idiotic. If this is how the older Devils see how things should be done, then they are just as idiotic as you."
"Disrespecting the elders won't do you any good, boy."
"Why should I care. These supposed elders of yours have done nothing for me to show respect to them. Besides, respect is earned, not just given on a silver platter." Takeda stated. "I have no reason to answer your question, so I'll give you my answer in a different way."
Takeda disappeared from Riser's sight, before the Phenex felt pressure against his chin. He looked to see Takeda hitting him with an uppercup, knocking him in the air.
He tried to get his bearings, but Takeda was already ready, kicking Riser right in the chest. The kick was so hard, it caused his entire chest to cave in, before he went flying through the air.
Takeda landed silently, as Riser slowly got to his feet.
"You know...I don't want to waste my time with you. After I take care of you, I take out that pathetic pawn, then the rest of those maggots, before making Rias succumb to me!" Riser yelled out, as Takeda began to be pushed back.
Riser's flames shot out in all directions, as the wind in the air pushed against Takeda's skin. The shadows around him surrounded his body, acting as a shield.
"DIE YOU PATHETIC LITTLE SHIT!" Riser launched a large fireball at Takeda, who prepared himself for it, but as he tried to, the winds were making it near impossible to do so. "DIE!"
The fireball neared him, as Takeda's eyes widened. It nearly filled the entire main room of the building. The winds pushed him forward, before the fireball came in contact with his skin.
But...he felt no pain. The flames were doing nothing to him. He couldn't waste anymore time...it was now or never. Lightning cracked around his body, as he grasped Riser's arm.
"Issei, get ready." Takeda called out through the communication piece in his ear.
"What the-!" Suddenly, the two disappeared from within the school building. They appeared back outside, confusing Riser. "Ho- uggh!" His eyes widened, as the fist of Issei found itself in Riser's gut, sending him flying back. Some ways away, the rest of the ORC can be seen.
"Lightning teleportation. Not only can I teleport myself, but whoever I touch will teleport with me." Takeda stated, as Issei smirked.
"Let's show him how we do things, huh, Takeda?" Issei questioned, punching his fist into his other hand. Takeda smirked, seeing Riser coming back to his feet. Takeda lifted his right hand, using his thumb to push against his point finger, and cracking the bone.
"Yeah..."
"You...insignificant, miserable little wretches...I've about HAD IT...with you..." Riser's eyes appeared flame red, as his aura continued to increase. Takeda and Issei readied themselves. "I'll...I'll..." Riser raised his head, revealing the deep scowl on his face. "I'LL ANNIHILATE YOU!" He screamed, as the winds picked up, pushing against his opponents.
Takeda and Issei shielded their faces, as Takeda looked back at the rest of the ORC.
"You all need to make some space. Make sure you're out of the area!" He yelled out, recieving a nod from Rias as their wings sprouted. They flew off, as Takeda turned back to Riser.
His aura continued to grow, before it began to form and take the shape of an actual phoenix. The beast let out a mix of a roar, along with a few caws. The winds began to slow down, as the two members of the ORC lowered their arms.
"FEEL THE POWER OF THE MIGHTY PHOENIX, LOWLY DEVILS!" Riser screamed from within the aura made beast.
Slowly, Issei released a smirk.
"Well...it's a good thing we didn't fully go out before, huh?" Takeda matched his smirk, simply nodding before their own aura's began to take form. "Hey, Ddraig. Let's show him the power of the Red Dragon Emperor! Boosted Gear!"
[Explosion!]
Issei's aura's exploded in a mix of red and green. Not one to be outdone, Takeda's own aura exploded in a fit of Erebus' hellfire, lightning crackling throughout the flames.
"WHAT COULD THE TWO OF YOU HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH AT THIS POINT!?" Riser questioned with a widened smirk on his face.
"How about this, Riser Phoenix...what's a lowly phoenix...two a pair of dragons!" Takeda yelled out, as Erebus's voice boomed throughout the area.
[You would dare call yourself a true phoenix, devil? I'll show you just how wrong you are!]
[To work alongside an Elder Dragon, you stand no chance Riser Phenex]
Ddraig also spoke. Deciding he was done with idle chat, Riser charged the two.
""Let's go Ddraig/Erebus!""
[[Red/Shadow Dragon!]]
The two devils aura's continued to grow, before they began to take shape, just like Riser's aura had done. Slowly, wings and horns grew, sharpened eyes. Surrounding Issei now was a dragon made of red aura, covered in flames, with piercing emerald green eyes. Surrounding Takeda was a dragon made of black hellfire flames, lightning crackling throughout the aura as well. Wings that appear to be made of shadows. Piercing golden colored eyes, a wicked green on it's face.
The two dragons stared down at the phoenix, roaring wildly as the winds picked up. With Rias and the others, they were in shock at what they were witnessing.
"They turned their aura's into dragons...Just what kind of training did the two of them do?" Kiba asked what was on all their minds.
"Let's go, Ise!"
"Yeah!"
"DIE YOU LOWLY DEVILS!"
The three titans charged at each other, taking to the skies, as Issei and Riser crached against one another, gritting their teeth with glares in their eyes. From below, Takeda's dragon crashing into the chest of the phoenix. It cawed in pain, as the shadow dragon bit into its neck, tearing a piece of the aura out. With a roar, the red dragon raised a fist, punching the phoenix down to the ground, causing the ground to shake.
The two dragons stared down at the dust cloud, which slowly disappeared as the phoenix raised back to its feet. They looked closer, seeing it's neck regenerating.
'I just may have to use those powers. Being a devil, they would work better.' Takeda thought, as he and Issei charged again. The phoenix looked up at them, shooting flames out of its beak. The two dragons mouths opened, as flames built up in their mouths. They shot out, as Takeda's hellfire ate Riser's, continued towards Riser. The phoenix quickly dodged, the hellfire landing and completely obliterating the school building.
Riser looked down at the school building, seeing it melting away into nothing.
'The rumors definitely weren't subtle, the hellfire of Erebus the Elder Dragon...Riser needs to watch out for those, for even Riser's regenerative abilities would take too long to heal from those.' Riser thought.
"Where you looking, asshole!" Issei yelled out, the red dragon slamming against the phoenix, causing Riser to spit out blood due to the impact.
[Boost x10]
The red dragons tails wrapped around the neck of the phoenix, as the shadow dragon was positioned high near the clouds, which were slowly darkening. With a smirk, the red dragon threw the phoenix into the skies above.
"Combine the flames of the Moon Dragon...with the lightning of the skies above..." Takeda muttered, as the skies began to rumble. "...Taste the Dragon's Rage!" Takeda yelled out, as the shadow dragon spewed hellfire, while lightning struck from the skies above, combing with the flames upon contact.
'Shit...SHIT...!' Riser thought in worry. Quickly removing himself from the aura made phoenix, dropping to the ground. Upon contact, the phoenix roared in pain as the flames began to consume it, lightning continuously sending tremors of shocks through the body. Finally, the phoenix exploded into nothing, as the shadow dragon lowered to the ground, staring down at Riser.
Quickly, the Phenex went to create another phoenix, but the shadow dragons tailed slammed into him, not allowing him to move. Red came into his vision, as the red dragon roared as it charged down at him. Being held down by the strong tail, Riser couldn't move and braced for impact, as another explosion occured, creating a large dust cloud.
The shadow dragon moved away from the cloud, as Issei jumped out of the dust cloud, no longer covered by the red dragon.
Slowly, the shadow dragon formed back into a natural aura, before fully disappearing.
"I can feel it, he's exhausted his stamina and power just creating that thing." Takeda told Issei.
"Heh, good thing we worked on stamina control then." Takeda nodded in agreement to Issei's statement, as the dust slowly fell back to the ground. The sillhouette of Riser could be seen slowly rising to his feet, a good portion of his body not even there anymore.
Finally, they could see him, as the left side of his upper body was completely destroyed, as it slowly regenerated.
"It's slower than before. The less stamina he has, the longer his regeneration takes." Takeda quickly took note. 'I may not need to use the light of my fallen angel powers. If we can just exhaust him, he eventually won't be able to do a thing.'
[Precisely, Takeda. Though, if it comes down to it, you just may need to use those powers. Who knows how long this could take.]
'I hear you, Erebus.'
Issei had already charged, not wanting to let Riser regenerate as he went on the attack.
"Erebus, I think it's time." Takeda spoke.
[You want to end this now, huh? Very well. Remember, it isn't fully tested yet.]
"Well we won't know until we try." Takeda turned to Issei. "Ise, keep him busy for me!"
"You got it!"
"Little wretch!" The now fully regenerated Riser yelled out, striking at Issei who dodged and blocked the attacks, before going with his own attacks. Takeka, meanwhile, stood still, raising both hands. Slowly, he began to perform multiple hand signs. He performed them at such high speeds, his hands were barely visible to the natural eye. As he continued, his aura grew around him, his hair raising from the winds picking up. His aura remaianed black, and yet specks of white could be seen growing within the aura.
Riser felt the rising aura, turning to Takeda.
'This brat...!' He went to charge Takeda, but had to catch a fist from Issei which pushed him back. 'You...!"
"Sorry, but you're dealing with me." Issei stated with a smirk. Back with Takeda, he opened his eyes, revealing them to be slightly glowing. With a boost of power, Takeda charged at Riser. Issei could feel him coming, flipping over Riser, who had no time to dodge. instead, he created flames in his own fist, cocking it back.
"Bastards!" He yelled, as their fists clashed. Takeda grunted, not from the flames, but from the punch overall. Riser smirked, feeling no pain from the attack, but...
"That won't work on..."
At that moment, Rier started coughing up blood. He fell to his knee's, as Takeda looked down at him.
"W-What did you do to me, you brat!?" Riser asked as he continued to cough up blood. Takeda sighed, before allowing his wings to be seen. "Y-Y-You..."
"I'm sure you felt my aura during your visit to our clubroom. Now you know exactly why." Takeda said, as his fallen angel wing came forward, the devil/fallen hybrid stroking his own wing. "You didn't notice it, but I placed some holy energy in my fist to do full damage."
"Y-You...you could kill me, you filfthy lowborn!" Riser coughed out, as Takeda scoffed.
"Was it not you who said deaths in Rating Games aren't an unusual thing to occur?" Takeda retorted. "Don't worry though, I don't plan on killing you. If I wanted to, I could have added more to my punch." Takeda stated.
"E-Even then, using holy elements after becoming a Devil will still damage yourself...Unless you gave parts of your body to the dragon in your Sacred Gear!" Riser accused, but Takeda shook his head.
"That's not it. Of course, after becoming a Devil, using it would prove difficult, unless..." Takeda proceeded to reveal his entire aura, all of it a golden hued white. "I've trained myself in using such powers."As I said already, I won't kill you. There's no point in doing such a thing."
Riser got his bearings together, as Takeda hid his aura once again.
"You asked me earlier why I'm fighting so hard in something that shouldn't be my business. First things first, this is my business, as a member of this peerage. To answer your earlier question...never in my life, before my adopted parents, had I felt such care. When I needed someone there for me, she was. What kind of person would I be to not be there for her in her time of need? If ending this pointless marriage will repay her kindness, then I'll gladly defeat you." Takeda spoke.
"S-So that's it...you want Rias for yourself, huh?"
"Not at all. I'm simply repaying her kindness by ridding her of you. In the end, she isn't some object, so stop referring to her as if she is." Takeda demanded, Riser looking up to see a hardened glare in Takeda's eyes. Yet behind him, appeared the head of a dragon, licking it's lips in delight of the feat it felt from him. Slowly, Riser backed away, his eyes slowly growing with fear, before he bumped into something. He slowly turned and looked up, seeing Issei also staring down at him, a red dragon behind him as it glared down at the fake phoenix.
He tried to get to his feet, only for his knee's to buckle before he fell back down.
Suddenly, Ravel appeared by her brothers side, staring at Takeda, and yet he could see a small bit of fear in her eyes.
"P-Please, you've done enough." She spoke, as Takeda walked closer. She closed her eyes in fear, only to feel a chop at her neck, before she dropped to the ground. Takeda did catch her, laying her down, before she began to disappear.
[Riser Phenex, 1 Bishop retired]
Seeing he was now completely alone, Riser gulped down a bit of built up saliva.
"H-Hold on! Do you even know what you are doing!? This engagement is important and necessary for the future of all Devils! It's not something Devil brats like you can butt in to!" Riser yelled out, as Takeda shook his head in annoyance.
"Who's to say it is? You? You don't care for this marriage, all you want is another toy to play with. Do you think I'd let that happen? If it's your 'elders' who say this is good for your race because it follows the 'old ways' then perhaps the old ways are wrong. Who's to say a Devil, or any other supernatural being can't find love in someone other than your own kind? That's nothing but a load of bullshit..."
Hellfire appeared in Takeda's hand, a small bit of holy properties within it as well. With incredible speeds, he appeared right in front of Riser. The Phenex held no time to block the attack, as Takeda hit him straight in the chest.
The force of it alone made him spew up blood. Takeda didn't stop, uppercutting him into the air. Takeda's wings sprouted, as he put his arms in the shape of an x, his palms open.
Sparks began to build up in his palms, as Riser slowly fell to the floor.
"Issei, let's go!" The Pawn nodded, building up his own power from the ground. The sparks continued to build up around Takeda, making bolts of lightning as they came together.
Slowly, he moved his hands to where his palms were getting closer and closer, as the bolts of lightning came together and into one.
"The lightning in my left, and the holy lightning in my right..." He muttered to himself. "Turn them into one, and you shall receive the Lightning's Blessing!" He shouted, as he threw the ball of lightning down onto Riser.
"You ain't ever touching the president again, ya hear! Dragon..." The built up energy in front of his palm grew a bit, before he punched it, sending it directly at Riser. "...SHOT!"
The two attacks neared Riser, eventually combining into one ultimate attack. Riser's stamina had been drained. He couldn't do anything to dodge, block, or counter the attack.
"Damn you! Damn you to the darkest pits of Tartaros!" Riser yelled out, before the attack overcame him. His yells turned into screams of pain, as the attack hit the ground. The others watched the explosion, more so Akeno.
'To think he learned this much this quickly about lightning magic...you really are something else, Takeda...' She thought to herself.
The loads of dust slowly fell away, revealing a large crater was made, with Riser in the middle. His clothes were all in tatters, burn marks and bruises all across his body.
"F-For...me to lose...like this..."
[Riser Phenex has retired. It is the victory of Rias Gremory]
Takeda heard the voice of Grayfia announce. He allowed himself to lower to the ground, as all of his energy disappeared.
He landed right next to Issei, who was also breathing heavily. Takeda himself was also breathing heavily, allowing himself to fall to his knees, as did Issei. The sound of running steps caught their attention, to see Rias and the others running their way.
Slowly, his consciousness faded, as Takeda hit the ground, Issei soon to follow.
Back in the viewing room, Iruku had a satisfied look on his face.
'If only you could see him now, you'd be so proud of him...well...it may not be too long before you see your little boy again...Adolfa...'
Stay Safe...
Stay Healthy...
Have a good one!
