Mr. Crimson Fucker: I understand what you mean about training scenes not being interesting although this chapter has more stuff happening around the training that I thought would be good to include at this point. Plus some of what Kazuhiko has came up with isn't shown so it'll still be a nice surprise for the actual fights.
Stratos263: The fight between Riser and Kazuhiko will be one to watch and I do have the basic ideas for how it will go.
Raidentensho: I will actually be trying to put in music for most of the Rating Game and have a small list of songs that I may try and stick in at good moments. As for Kazuhiko unlocking Scale Mail during the game, I personally don't think he really needs it against Riser.
Giest: True. Rias knew that she was engaged to Riser and she should have been training Ise and Asia from when they first joined her peerage. As for Rias she will do some training although how much I have it affect the Rating Game I haven't decided yet.
ShadowUzumaki55: Yeah, Karasuba will put Kazuhiko through hell. I think she would be alright with sharing partly cause Kazu is going to end up continuing to train with her at various points and appease her sadistic side during those times, plus I think she would find it funny to watch the other girls fight over him when she can just as easily go and drag him off without the others noticing. As for Miya, I intend to have her appear when Kazuhiko next goes to Kyoto and was thinking she would be a higher up amongst the Oni Clan that could be there while Kazehana would show up during the party after the Rating Game.
SargentFalco: Glad you like it and Kazuhiko will gain several new tricks from his training with Karasuba although I intend to save them for the actual Rating Game. I aim to please with the Riser and Kazuhiko fight and going to try and make it bigger then what happened in canon with Rias or Ise. (Also to answer your question I have wrote part of a Sekirei story before I started writing with DxD)
Aspect of Evil: Thanks, I do try and make her seem a little unsure of herself around Kazuhiko given his obvious dislike for her and that she's trying to figure out a way to redeem herself to him.
MaskedRiderEnzo: Thanks (Don't worry, I have trouble with coming up with reviews)
Universal crunch: Thanks, I think Rias really only made a stupid choice at the beginning and that along with how Kazuhiko acts work to make her seem less understanding of how humans react to things differently to Devils. I can see what you mean about Kazuhiko being a badass and with a few of the things I have planned I can see it growing later on.
…
"" – Speech
'' – Thought
[] – Sacred Gear
[] – Albion
{} - Metatron
…
An explosion filled the air with dust as a stone pillar fell in pieces, a blast of [Lightning Flames] clearing it away to reveal Kazuhiko bloodied and battered as he wore his battle outfit as he picked himself out of the rubble of the stone pillar he had been punched into by Karasuba. [Divine Dividing] was active and Kazuhiko hadn't managed to land any sort of blow on her yet so he could start using its power to his advantage.
[Looks like she's pushing you to your limits] Albion muttered, Kazuhiko wiping away blood from his mouth as he started to make a move forwards as he mentally retort with a few winces
'Half an hour and she's kicked my ass six ways from Sunday…'
{Kazu-kun, are you alright?} Metatron spoke concerned as Kazuhiko mentally shrugged as he took a moment to regain his breathe before shooting towards a grinning Karasuba who was standing relaxed halfway across the field, her nodachi resting against one of the stone pillars behind her.
"Good… You're eager to continue boy. Being able to get back up is an important skill especially when fighting someone stronger then you" Karasuba spoke with a sadistic grin as she charged forwards, her first punch unleashing a shockwave after missing Kazuhiko's head by inches before he threw a punch at her stomach only for it to be deflected by her other hand before taking a step back as Kazuhiko threw a punch with his other, [Lightning Flames] covered, hand. Karasuba had settled to fighting at a level of a typical High Class Devil and not in her words 'one of those Clan Pillar Brats' so she could gauge his strength.
So far, Kazuhiko had showed a lot of potential to her as she ducked and weaved through attacks with ease before backhanding the brunet halfway across the training area, Kazuhiko digging a hand and his feet in to stop himself while panting deeply. Frowning slightly, Karasuba relaxed her stance as she waited for Kazuhiko to make the next move before speaking with a growl "No Devil is going to let you have time to recover boy… Get up!"
Kazuhiko staggered back to his feet, one hand going to wipe the blood from his mouth as he wobbling slightly and drew both of his pistols and started to fire off a barrage of [Rain Flame] bullets at Karasuba, who with a simple thought, summoned her sheathed nodachi to her hands and started to use it to deflect the magic bullets with a practiced ease as she continued her charge. A Spartan kick knocked Kazuhiko back against another pillar and making him cry out in pain, his guns clattering to the ground while the spider web cracks appeared behind him before he collapsed forwards with [Divine Dividing] disappearing from its exhausted host.
"He lasted longer then I expected…" Karasuba mused with a small smirk on her face as Seraphina and Asia rushed over to help Kazuhiko, only to be surprised as Kazuhiko managed to lift himself up slightly and offer them a reassuring smile.
'I didn't think he would be still awake after that…' Karasuba thought surprised, watching as the two girls tended to Kazuhiko after seating him at the now cracked stone pillar as Asia used her [Twilight Healing] on his wounds.
"Grrr~" Karasuba turned to see Blaire growling at her with a glare, Kazuhiko arching an eyebrow tiredly before speaking tiredly
"Blaire… leave her alone, she's only helping me get stronger" Blaire turned to look at Kazuhiko conflicted before back to Karasuba who smirked as the direwolf moved to sit down near her master.
"Karasuba-san did you have to do that to him!" Seraphina spoke with an angry glare at the grey haired young woman, Karasuba rolling her eyes before pulling out a large red apple from under her haori and holding it out towards Seraphina as she spoke sternly
"Get him to eat this and then we'll start again when he's recovered" Seraphina's eyes grew wide at seeing it, taking the apple from Karasuba before nodding as she crouched down next to Kazuhiko and gave him the apple as she spoke
"Here eat this… It's a Dragon Apple and should help you recover your strength quickly"
…
The spars continued till lunchtime, Seraphina and Asia had gone back to the former's home to put together a picnic which they currently had spread out before Kazuhiko and Karasuba as Albion muttered [Well at least by the end of this your durability will be better]
{I can't believe she's using you as a punch bag for her so called training…} Metatron spoke with concern in her voice as Karasuba was leaned against the pillar that Kazuhiko was sitting at as she spoke
"You know most people would've quit after the third or fourth time I'd kick there ass… So why would you go through this sort of training?" Seraphina and Asia shared a look between Karasuba and Kazuhiko, who shrugged before taking a large bite out of a sandwich as he answered
"I need to get stronger…there's a Phenex I need to destroy so I don't get more caged then I already am" Karasuba arching an eyebrow at hearing that before scoffing
"The Gremory-Phenex Union… Tiamat-sama told me about it. The new stronger generation of Devils I heard the two Clans call it, hah, what a laugh… Strength only comes to those who work for it"
Kazuhiko nodded in agreement as the group continued to eat, Blaire lying next to him eating a chunk of meat while opposite them was Asia and Seraphina as the latter asked "Do you want some tea, Kazu-san?"
"Yes please, Sera-san" Kazuhiko spoke with a smile, accepting the cup of tea and taking a sip from it before Asia pouted and asked
"Kazu-san, have some of the soup I help make"
"Alright, Asia-san I will" Kazuhiko spoke with a chuckle, Asia eagerly pouring him a cup of soup and handing it over only for a bolt of blue lightning to hit Kazuhiko just as he was about to take the cup. The smoke soon faded to reveal Kazuhiko's face black with soot while his hair was sticking out at random angles as he turned to see the snickering blue dragon which soon let out a scared sound as it took to the air to avoid Blaire's charge.
"…A baby Sprite Dragon" Seraphina spoke surprised, moving to pull out a small towel for Kazuhiko as Asia asked
"Why did it attack, Kazu-san?" The Sprite Dragon managed to avoid getting bitten again by Blaire as it flew towards Asia, clinging onto her chest even as Blaire stopped and growled at the blue dragon.
"It probably thought that you were making a move on Asia" Karasuba spoke with a chuckle as Kazuhiko glared at the blue dragon making it shrink away as Seraphina giggled
"Male Sprite Dragons get really defensive against males from other races but they only get attracted to those who are pure of heart…"
"…Right?" Kazuhiko spoke with a sigh as Asia hugged the Sprite Dragon as she giggled
"Raizu, stop that tickles"
"Raizu…?" Kazuhiko asked, curious as Asia gave him a smile as she explained
"Well I wanted to use part of your name with Raigeki because it can shoot lightning"
"That's a good name, Asia-san" Seraphina spoke with a smile, moving to pet the head of the newly named Raizu who gave him a look that half passed for a smirk before Kazuhiko scowled as he spoke to Raizu
"You'll look after Asia-san then, Raizu… and don't get any funny ideas" Raizu gulped and nodded before Asia hugged it tighter as she replied with a frown
"Kazu-san, don't scare Raizu-kun"
"I was just giving him a warning, Asia-san" Kazuhiko replied with a smile, Seraphina smiling as Raizu perched himself on Asia's shoulder after claiming a sandwich for himself as they settled back into eating the picnic.
…
Kazuhiko sighed as he sunk into the large hot spring, towel wrapped around his waist, the aches in his body starting to dull due to the healing property of the water. His training with Karasuba had been as pain filled as before and then they had taken a few hours to focus on his newer techniques so he could, firstly pull them off and then be able to get use to using them during a fight with as much ease as he could with his original ones.
[Looks like you've got the basics down for them both] Albion mused thoughtfully as Metatron added
{It's just a matter of learning the timing with the [Zero Point Breakthrough] and only using the [Snow Flame] at the right time due to his high magic usage}
"Well looks like you've become comfortable around here, Kazu" Karasuba spoke in an amused tone, Kazuhiko's eyes widening as he turned to see the grey haired woman walk unabashed at her nakedness to sit down with her back against a rock a few feet away from him, her towel left on the side. Kazuhiko turned his gaze away to avoid himself from staring at her as he mentally commented
'We still need to get the draining time with the [Zero Point Breakthrough] down because I was pretty scorched after each time but the dumping of the excess is working alright'
[Well [Divine Dividing] grows with the user so it'll start helping you fix the mistake after a few more tries] Albion spoke, Kazuhiko hearing a door open behind him before Seraphina sat down in the spring next to him with a towel wrapped tightly around her body, her hair in a bun and a blush on her face.
"Hey…Feeling better?" Seraphina asked nervously, Kazuhiko blushing as he flexed his hands and replied
"Yeah, just feel drained and tired now" Seraphina sighed in relief, her eyes flittering over Kazuhiko's unblemished torso as she silently thanked Asia and her healing power for stopping any potential scars.
"Sera-chan, Kazu-kun!" Sayuri called out making both gulp as the bluenette dove at her younger sister, completely nude and caused a large splash in the spring, making Kazuhiko turn bright red as he turned away.
"Sera-chan, now would be a great time to do some ecchi things with Kazu-kun… I'll go first!" Sayuri called as they both stood up, the elder of the pair having thrown away the towel Seraphina had been using, making her fluster as she shouted back
"No way, Onee-san. Kazu-san is my boyfriend and you can't just say stuff like that with Karasuba-san here!"
Karasuba chuckled as she watched the pair, aware that the two bluenettes were looking at her as she commented with an amused look "I don't care what you do just don't be too loud"
"See Kara-chan doesn't mind" Sayuri called, pointing at the silver haired woman before pointing at the tent in Kazuhiko's towel as she added
"And Kazu-kun is already warmed up for you"
"Onee-san, that's because you both walk around without any modesty in the bath!" Seraphina shouted, pointing accusingly at her older sister who grinned lecherously and Karasuba who shrugged as Sayuri countered
"You're showing your all to Kazu-kun too now, Sera-chan" Seraphina's whole body turned red as she realised it, shuddering as she caught Kazuhiko looking at her with a completely red face before his eyes rolled back and he sank into the water
"Kazu-san!" Seraphina called, rushing towards the brunet while Sayuri rushed to help her, not wanting her sister to lose her boyfriend while Karasuba shook her head as she chuckled and reclined to enjoy the healing waters some more.
…
"RAAAAHHH!" Rias shouted as she shot a blast of her [Power of Destruction] at one of the many trees before her, dozen more ruined trees around her as her anger not fading since Kazuhiko compared her to Riser. A thin sheen of sweat covered her whole body, soaked into her red tracksuit and making it cling to her body as she fumed
"I… I can't believe he would compare me to that womaniser!"
"Rias…" Akeno spoke concerned, standing several feet away to avoid getting caught in the waves of aura Rias was releasing before hearing Kalawarner chuckle from where she was sitting on one of the higher branches of a tree
"Looks like Kazu-kun's plan worked…" Kalawarner was wearing a t-shirt and a pair of comfy jeans, Akeno flying up to her as she asked seriously
"What was Yuuki-kun's plan?"
"It was to get Gremory to train herself… You really think you stand a chance against Riser's group when your [King] doesn't put the effort in to get stronger with her servants?" Kalawarner answered, Akeno blinking surprised before she replied
"Yuuki-kun has [Divine Dividing] and Mittelt-chan has her Light Magic…"
"The Sacred Gear of the Vanishing Dragon and Fallen Angel Magic may be game changers with other peerages but you are dealing with a Phenex, regeneration means you not fighting a one time opponent but someone who keeps coming back and I doubt she has the means to break Riser's will" Kalawarner countered, pointing a hand towards Rias as Akeno frowned as she spoke seriously
"Don't underestimate my [King]…"
"Don't overestimate your [King] as well… Kazu-kun could beat her without much effort if he really wanted" Kalawarner shot back casually, Akeno's eyes widening in surprise as she asked
"How…?"
"Like I said before [Divine Dividing] is a game changer but Kazu-kun doesn't use it like a crutch like your [King] with her [Power of Destruction], his diversity in battle would trump Gremory's pure power approach" Kalawarner answered, Akeno looking thoughtful and conflicted as they turned to watch Rias start to run out of magic as her breathing became more laboured.
…
Blaire lay across the bottom of Kazuhiko's bed as he slept, her ruby red eyes glancing between her master and the closed door of the guest room he was staying in as she mulled over what she had learnt since attacking her now master. One of her primary abilities was her empathic link with Kazuhiko, who had overwhelmed her with emotions the moment she had linked into him and had caused her to lash out violently at him until she could control it.
The link had taught her that her master didn't trust Devils, especially after what Rias Gremory had done to him, and made her wary around them as well. Mittelt was an exception due to her Fallen Angel side as well as giving her some treats while waiting for Kazuhiko to come back from one of his contracts. Her comfortableness around Seraphina, Matsu, Asia and Kalawarner was also from her master but also from her own observations so she could pick the best human appearance so she could spend more time with Kazuhiko.
The door slowly opened, Blaire turning to see Sayuri trying to slip into the room wearing a loosely tied light blue dressing gown that barely reached halfway down her thigh and was gaped open at the chest. Blaire hopped down from the bed, shooting an annoyed look at Sayuri who waved her hands down as she spoke in whisper "Relax Blaire-chan… I just want to help Kazu-kun"
Blaire growled lowly at Sayuri, knowing she couldn't let the Sayuri steal Kazuhiko away from Seraphina as Sayuri took a step forwards as she spoke "I just want to sleep next to him and help Sera-chan get closer to him"
Blaire's body glowed as she stood her ground, shifting into a five foot nine athletic human form with shoulder length black spiky hair that was parted at the front. She wore a corset style strapless dark blue top that showed off her toned stomach and was held together at the front by three belt buckles, a black leather jacket and cut off denim shorts. A brown collar was around her neck and thigh high black socks brown boots covered her legs while her wolf ears and tail was on clear display.
"No…Sera-sama wouldn't be happy to see you here" Blaire spoke in a stoic voice, crossing her arms under her chest as she gave the surprised Sayuri a serious look before pouting as she whined
"Mou~ but sleeping nude next to someone you care about is normal…Please Blaire-chan let me pass" Blaire blinked as she took in that piece of information, shaking her head as she started to push Sayuri out of the room as she replied
"…No… Master is in need of rest and doesn't need you to distract him during this serious time"
"Meanie…" Sayuri pouted childishly stomping her feet before turning and heading back to her own room as Blaire stepped back into the room, closing the door behind her as she spoke thoughtfully
"Sleeping nude next to someone you care about it normal…" Turning her gaze to Kazuhiko, Blaire allowed Sayuri's words to echo around her mind as she moved towards Kazuhiko's bed.
…
Seraphina pouted slightly as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes, her mother having insisted that she sleep in her own room while Kazuhiko took one of the spare rooms. She understood that her mother was making sure that Kazuhiko would get enough rest so he could continue his training for the ten days but it still irked her that she couldn't sleep next to Kazuhiko like she had gotten use to back at his home.
Walking over to the spare room that Kazuhiko was staying in, Seraphina ran her hands through her hair to quickly fix it before knocking on the door as she spoke "Kazu-san breakfast is ready!"
Seraphina frowned slightly at not hearing a response, hoping that Sayuri hadn't snuck into the room before as she knocked the door again before opening it as she spoke "Onee-san you better not be in here!"
Stepping into the room, Seraphina looked shocked at seeing a black haired young woman on her hands and knees over a still asleep Kazuhiko, a ball of blue flames ignited in the palm of her hand as she spoke "Who are you and what the hell are you doing with my Kazu-san?"
"Sera-sama…" The black haired young woman spoke as she turned to look at Seraphina, making the bluenette pause as Blaire continued
"I was going to wake up Master for you…"
"B-Blaire…?" Seraphina gasped in surprise, having realised the similarities between the direwolf and the young woman before her as well as noticing the wolf ears atop of her head.
"Yes Sera-sama?" Blaire asked curiously, Seraphina taking a moment to organize her thoughts before asking
"You can take human form?" Blaire moved from under the covers, revealing her naked body as she stood before Seraphina and nodded as she answered
"Yes… I was attempting to choose a pleasing form for him until Sayuri-san attempted to barge in last night" Seraphina fumed where she stood, hearing the sleepy mumblings from Kazuhiko as she started to wake as she spoke to Blaire
"Get dressed now"
"Yes Sera-sama" Blaire spoke, moving to the folded pile of clothes and quickly putting them on as Kazuhiko groaned while rubbing the sleep from his eyes
"What's going on…? Please tell me Karasuba-san isn't in here already" Seraphina giggled at the slightly scared tone in Kazuhiko's voice, shaking her head as she sat down on the bed as she spoke
"No, it's just me coming to tell you that breakfast was ready"
"Morning Sera-san…" Kazuhiko spoke as he sat up, giving her a quick kiss on the lips before noticing Blaire finishing getting dressed as he asked confused
"Who is that and what is she doing here?"
"That's Blaire…" Seraphina spoke with a giggle, Kazuhiko looking surprised as Blaire bowed to him as she spoke
"Yes Master, I am Blaire…"
…
"…So let me get this right. You were observing me and the others to pick a human form to take so I would be happy?" Kazuhiko asked after taking a sip of his tea, Asia, Raizu and Ageha looking curious while Sayuri pouted at Blaire who nodded
"Yes… Sayuri-san forced me to reveal myself to protect you, Master" Sayuri smiled nervously at seeing her mother look seriously, Seraphina frowning at her older sister as Kazuhiko spoke between bites of he breakfast
"Just called me Kazu, Blaire… I don't like being called Master" Blaire nodded in understanding, Asia looking confused as she asked innocently
"Why would Kazu-san need protecting from Sayuri-san?"
"Because Sayuri-san wanted to disrupt Kazu-sama rest before seduc-" Blaire started only for Kazuhiko to cover her mouth with his hand as he continued
"…Sayuri-san wanted to force me to stay up playing games even though I was exhausted and I have training today… Isn't that right, Blaire?" Kazuhiko looked seriously at Blaire, having realised when talking to her earlier that she was rather blunt with her words. Kazuhiko moved his hand away as Blaire nodded and added
"That's correct…"
…
"I must say I'm impressed with Kazuhiko-san's progress in such a short time" Tiamat spoke with a proud smile as she watched Kazuhiko and Karasuba spar, their swords clashing rapidly even as the brunet was forced to step back and dodge a few of them, Matsu smirking next to her as she replied with a nod
"Yeah, Kazu-tan has unlocked his third and fourth [Pawn] Pieces and it has only been halfway through the training time." Matsu's eyes moved from the magic circle before her, which showed Kazuhiko's stats, to the spar before her.
"It's a shame Kazuhiko-san has to hide his full power" Tiamat commented with a sad tone, Matsu nodding as she replied
"If he did show his true power the Devils would be scared of him… An Angel/ Devil hybrid is considered dangerous and forbidden but one with Albion's power as well…"
"Heaven, Grigori and the Underworld would never accept him and could even try and destroy him instantly… the mere fact Metatron's host was made a Devil would cause an uproar or war for the Angels if they found out especially with how Kazuhiko-san became a Devil" Tiamat continued sadly, Matsu nodding as she explained
"Those sealing bangles are the best I can come up with to hide his Angel side from everyone… I mean Kazu-tan does train with his Angel side but I don't think he'll ever be truly able to relax and use it fully with Ria-tan and her group on his back and he can't leave them as Devils may try and use his Tou-san and friends against him" Tiamat agreed with a nod, Kazuhiko didn't strike her as being someone who would abandon those he cared about and would fight to protect them if he had to.
"It would be a shame if Sera-chan lost her mate after he's made her so happy" Tiamat spoke with a small smile as she turned her gaze to where Asia, Seraphina, Blaire and Raizu was playing around as Matsu nodded as she added
"Kazu-tan wouldn't be as relaxed without Sera-tan around either"
Tiamat smiled at hearing that, focusing on Asia as she commented "I knew there was something special about Asia-san… but I didn't think she was capable of being a dragon tamer"
"Yeah I suspected that Asia-tan had the ability from how she affected Sera-tan and Kazu-tan at times but I didn't think she would get her own dragon partner by coming here" Matsu replied with a smile, Tiamat retrieving a piece of paper with an intricate magic circle drawn on it from her dress as she approached them as she spoke
"Asia-san, here this is for you… Once Raizu has put some of his power into it, it will allow you to summon him whenever you are in need of protection"
"Tiamat-sama, a summon circle…?" Seraphina spoke surprised, Tiamat nodding as Asia accepted the paper with a bow as she spoke with a bright smile
"Thank you Tiamat-san!"
"RAARGH!" Kazuhiko roared in frustration as he closed the distance between himself and Karasuba, blue energy covering his sword as he launched numerous thrusts towards the grey haired young woman who smirked as she dodged the attacks.
'[Dragon Fangs]' Kazuhiko mentally declared as he forced his stabbing attacks to move faster, blurring as Karasuba kicked up a modest sized rock which was soon reduced to dust from the numerous stabs connecting with it.
"Looks like you've got an interesting new move, it was carving away at the space between us" Karasuba spoke with a smirk as Kazuhiko panted softly, the energy dispersing around his sword as he looked at the dust as he replied
"Oh, I was just copying someone else. Let's continue" Karasuba's eyes widened at hearing that before a grin formed on her face as she took a ready stance with her nodachi as she replied
"Fine…" Kazuhiko jumped back as he allowed his sword to glow a white/blue as he shouted while swinging his sword down at Karasuba
"[Fang Slash]" The blast of energy shot forwards in an arc, Karasuba grinning as she covered her sword in midnight blue flames and launched her own attack back, an explosion occurring between them before Kazuhiko had to dodge the rest of Karasuba's flames as he landed crouched on the ground before both combatants charged at each other again.
…
"It's nice to hear, Kazu-kun is doing alright" Kalawarner spoke as she and Mittelt took a break from there own training to talk to Matsu. The trio was sitting in the dining room of the summer house Rias had brought them to train at, drinking tea as they chatted.
"So how are they doing?" Matsu asked curiously, a slight smirk at knowing Rias was eavesdropping on them as Kalawarner shrugged
"They seem to be getting better, even Gremory is getting in on the training as well but chances of winning is slim given the lack of numbers on her side"
"I can't believe that Kazu-san planned to rile Buchou up enough to make her want to train herself… It seemed almost too easy for him when he did it" Mittelt spoke with a giggle, drawing chuckles from the two others as Rias shouting shocked
"What?!"
"Nice of you to finally stop hiding, Ria-tan…" Matsu spoke with a smile, Rias looking guiltily away from them at being caught as she asked with a frown
"He used my hate for Riser to do this…? So I would train myself and not focus on a [King's] true job of strategizing a plan for the Rating Game"
"A team is only as good as the leader, Rias…" Matsu started, drawing the attention of the redhead by her oddly seriously tone as Matsu started to clean her glasses as she continued
"…and a [King] isn't just there for the plan, they are suppose to lead there comrades into battle not to be some sort of armchair general who moves pieces around a board… How can you expect people to follow a leader if they don't have the power to defend there allies or even match them in power?" Rias' eyes narrowed as she looked at Matsu before asking
"So you think I'm too weak to lead my peerage?"
"I never said that… I'm just saying that strategy and planning will only get you so far in the Rating Games. Any [King] can fall to a [Pawn] if they haven't trained themselves as well" Matsu countered with a sigh, Rias slumming slightly where she stood at realising that Matsu was right as she started to think on what she had been told before turning to leave and continue with her preparations for the Rating Game.
…
Seraphina smiled as she leant against Kazuhiko's side as they stared up at the night sky, there arms wrapped around the others' waist as she spoke "So… Tomorrow is the day of the Rating Game?"
"Yeah…" Kazuhiko replied with a sigh, Seraphina looking concerned as she asked
"Still worried about it?"
"Of course… If Gremory falls before I can take out Phenex then all of this will be for naught" Kazuhiko replied with a frown, Seraphina smiling as she kissed his cheek as she reassured him
"You'll do great. Karasuba-san said you was ready to handle this and I've heard it's hard to get any sort of praise from her, you've even been working on your new moves even during the breaks"
{You've got a near perfect control over those moves so it's all down to the game now} Metatron spoke in a reassuring tone, Albion nodding in agreement as he added
[She's right, just relax and enjoy yourself tonight]
Kazuhiko took a slow deep breathe before nervously chuckling as his eyes shifted to the large hole through one of the nearby mountains as Seraphina spoke with a smile "I can't believe you could unleash that much power at once… At least there was no one hurt in the blast"
"I think I surprised myself then, seeing as I don't usually focus on the power output from my attacks" Kazuhiko spoke as he nervously scratched the back of his neck, Seraphina smiling as she replied
"Karasuba-san certainly helped you in that area… especially with [Divine Dividing] being able to absorb additional strength from others"
"She's certainly Ultimate Class… Its no wonder I couldn't win any of our spars against her" Kazuhiko spoke with a small smile, turning back to see Karasuba chuckling as she retorted
"I've had decades of training to get to this level, Kazu… You'll reach it eventually with hard work and you're Sacred Gears combined powers."
[She's right your power will grow the more you train so the Red One won't stand any sort of chance against us] Albion spoke aloud with a smirk, Kazuhiko frowning slightly as he asked
"The Red One…?"
[I'll explain after the Rating Game... so you don't get distracted by it] Albion countered as Kazuhiko nodded, not noticing Seraphina and Karasuba sharing a knowing look to each other as he spoke
"We best head back before Sayuri-san tries to teach Asia-san or Blaire something bad" Karasuba chuckled in amusement while Seraphina blush as she and Kazuhiko got up and started back towards the house.
…
The next morning saw Asia, Seraphina and Kazuhiko ready to leave, standing outside the bluenette's house as Tiamat and Karasuba approaching while Ageha was speaking to them "It was nice to see you again Kazu-kun and good luck with your fight. Asia-chan, Sera look after Kazu-kun and make sure he doesn't burn himself out"
"Yes Ageha-san/ Kaa-san" Asia and Seraphina spoke with a nod, Kazuhiko jumping as Blaire spoke from behind him
"I'll make sure of it as well Ageha-san"
"Woah Blaire, where did you come from?" Kazuhiko spoke surprised, a small smile playing on Blaire's face as she answered
"I was making sure nothing has been left behind"
"We'll be rooting you on during the Rating Game, Kazu-san. Matsu said she would set up a link for us to watch the game. Feel free to come back if you need any more help" Tiamat spoke with a smile, Kazuhiko nodding before Karasuba added with a smirk
"Make sure you beat that arrogant prick… I don't want my first student to appear weak in front of others or I may have to give you even more training" Kazuhiko gulped nervously as he nodded, part of him realising Karasuba would enjoy training him again even if it was beating him into the ground half of the time as the grey haired young woman added in a oddly serious tone
"Remember, the most important thing you have is your willpower and determination so as long as you can get back up you still have a chance to win the fight"
"Right… Thank you for the training" Kazuhiko replied with a serious nod, Tiamat's smile growing at seeing Karasuba's small smile as she spoke
"It's nothing Kazu-kun…"
"Good Luck" The three dragons spoke with smiles, Seraphina and Asia smiling as they took hold of Kazuhiko's hands as the magic circle formed under their feet, Blaire taking hold of Asia's other hand before they were transported away.
…
Matsu grinned as Kazuhiko, Kalawarner, Mittelt, Asia and Seraphina entered half an hour before the Rating Game. Blaire turning to Kazuhiko from where she had been reading some manga Matsu had given her since the group's return from there separate training trips.
"So what did you want to talk about before the game, Matsu-san?" Kazuhiko asked curiously, Matsu turning to pick up a nearby pile of clothes as she started
"I've got your battle clothes sorted for the Rating Game, Kazu-tan…"
"Doesn't he already have battle clothes…?" Seraphina asked confused, Matsu nodding as she continued
"…Yeah he does but he can't use them during the Rating Game otherwise people will be able to link him with the jobs he does through my links"
"Damn, didn't think about that" Kazuhiko spoke, scratching the back of his neck as Matsu pushed the pile into his arms as the glasses wearing young woman spoke
"Go get ready, Kazu-tan"
"Alright…" Kazuhiko spoke with a roll of his eyes before starting to find a room to get ready in, Matsu sending an amused smirk to Kalawarner and Seraphina as Blaire stood up as she spoke
"I'll help you change Kazu-sama"
"No, no… I'll be able to do it myself, Blaire" Kazuhiko replied quickly, holding a hand up to stop Blaire who frowned softly before accepting it as Kazuhiko left the room as Mittelt spoke up
"I can't believe Blaire could take on human form till you told us, Sera-san"
"It was a surprise to me too when I found out" Seraphina replied with an embarrassed look, Blaire looking at her stoically as she asked
"Was it not right to sleep next to Kazu-sama like Sayuri-san instructed?" Kalawarner arched an eyebrow in amusement as the younger bluenette flustered as she shook her head and answered
"O-Onee-san was just trying to get past your guard during the night so she could try and se-seduce Kazu-san the morning after" Blaire nodded as if taking in the information, Kalawarner chuckling while Mittelt looked surprised at them both.
A few minutes passed before Kazuhiko came back out, a frown on his face as he looked over his new clothes. It resembled his school uniform in some ways, although most of it appeared tight against his frame. The pin-stripes on his shirt was now cyan in colour and his, now white, blazer had a stiff high collar that would protect his neck and [White-Fang] rested on his back in its sheathe while it flared back at waist level to stop at his hips. His blazer also had metal silver armguards that included elbow pads and fitted in with the sealing bangles and white leather gloves that had metal covering his fingers. His black slacks had silver hip guards and the belt and holster for his two pistols rested around his waist so the guns rested on his back. Knee high black boots covered his feet with metal shin-guards that extended into knee pads.
"What the hell is this?" Kazuhiko asked as he signalled to his new appearance, his frown deepening at seeing Matsu's perverted grin as she answered
"Well it does fit, right?" Asia and Mittelt blushed as they looked away, Kalawarner leering at him while Seraphina blushed as she stared at him. Blaire looking nonchalance about her master's new appearance as Kazuhiko countered
"Yeah but that's not the point…Does it have to be so tight on me?"
"It's based on the exorcist uniforms the church uses. So it protects you and doesn't get in the way while offering you full range of movement, White Knight-kun. Plus its not like it's a bondage outfit right?" Matsu replied with a giggle, Kazuhiko frowning as he took a moment to test it out before sighing as he asked
"I guess…What does the church exorcists use anyway?" Matsu smirked as she turned the monitor of her computer towards him, enjoying how Kazuhiko's eyes widened as a blush covered his face at seeing the full body skin tight black outfit of the young woman in the photograph as he asked shocked
"What kind of perverts are in charge of the church now?" Kalawarner and Matsu chuckled amused while Seraphina blushed as she found herself staring at Kazuhiko's backside for a moment, Blaire noticing as she commented with pink covering her cheeks
"Kazu-sama's training is starting to show" Seraphina and Mittelt nodded in agreement, the latter blushing embarrassed along with Asia as Kalawarner smirked as she looked him over.
"Don't know… but the church typically weave all sorts of defensive magic into them so they can protect them against the Strays the Exorcists are sent after" Matsu answered, grinning at hearing the girls' comments as Kazuhiko nodded in understanding as he turned his attention to the clock before sighing as he realised the time as he spoke
"We better get going…"
…
Rias bit her lip as she shifted her gaze from the door to the clock, wondering when Kazuhiko and Mittelt would arrive before an orange magic circle lit up the floor of the clubroom, Kazuhiko, Seraphina, Mittelt, Asia, Kalawarner and Blaire stepping out of it.
Looking around the room, Kazuhiko noted that the others were relieved at seeing him and Mittelt before turning confused at his appearance. Rias standing up as she spoke with an annoyed tone "It's nice of you to finally show up…Who's that?"
Signalling to Blaire, Kazuhiko mentally sighed as he took a moment to notice Koneko had martial artist gloves on while Kiba had gauntlets and lower leg armour, Kazuhiko shrugged nonchalantly as he replied "I'm here aren't I? The match doesn't even start till midnight so I'm early still and that…"
"… I am Blaire, Kazu-sama's familiar" Blaire introduced herself with a bow, frowning at Rias and Akeno before it darkened as she settled on Koneko who frowned back.
Rias crossed her arms in confusion as she looked at Blaire before shrugging and taking in Kazuhiko's new appearance, quickly finding that she was staring at him with a blush, along with Akeno and Koneko, as she asked "What's with those clothes?"
A magic circle appearing in the middle of the room saved Kazuhiko from answering, Grayfia stepping out of it and taking a look around to make sure everyone was there before she asked "Is everyone ready? It's ten minutes before the match."
Once the others had stood up, Grayfia continued starting to explain about the battle "When it becomes the time to start the battle, you will be teleported to the battlefield through this magic circle. The location of the place is in a different dimension used for battles. You may fight with all your power. It's a disposable space so feel free to fight to your satisfaction"
Kazuhiko smirked at hearing that, glad he didn't have to worry about not destroying the battlefield or holding back before the door opened behind them and Sona entered the room, drawing everyone's attention as she spoke "Sorry of the intrusion but I wanted to wish you luck Rias… I and the Student Council will be assisting with the broadcast"
"Thank you Sona… and try and keep the commentary neutral" Rias replied with a confident smile, Sona arching an eyebrow at Kazuhiko's outfit before Grayfia explained
"This [Rating Game] battle will also be viewed by members of both households from a different location through broadcast. Maou Lucifer-sama will also be viewing this battle. Please do not forget about it."
'Great now I have Gremory's big brother watching' Kazuhiko thought with a scowl as Rias commented seriously
"Onii-sama is? …I see so Onii-sama is also going to view this battle." An awkward air filled the room for a few moments, Mittelt giving Kazuhiko a concerned look only to see him smile back at her.
"Please just come back, Kazu-san" Asia spoke with a concerned look on her face as she clutched at Kazuhiko's hands, Kalawarner nodding in agreement as she added seriously
"Yeah, there is no point winning the game if you're not going to make it back"
"Don't worry I'll be fine" Kazuhiko spoke with a smile, squeezing Asia's hands reassuringly before Kalawarner kissed him lightly on the lips as Sona spoke up
"You can watch the game with me, Seraphina-san, Asia-san, Kalawarner-san" Seraphina fidgeting nervously as she stood before Kazuhiko, hugging him tightly quickly as she kissed him deeply on the lips. Rias scowled at watching it, feeling jealous as the brunet wrapped her arms around Seraphina's waist and drew her in closer, Akeno blushing as she looked over Kazuhiko's body while Kalawarner smiled warmly as Asia, Kiba and Koneko looked away embarrassed.
"There's no need to be worried, Sera-san…" Kazuhiko spoke softly after they had ended there kiss, Seraphina blushing slightly as she replied
"I can't help it… You're going to fight a Phenex, Kazu-kun, anyone would be worried"
"I'm going to come back no matter what, Sera-san so just wait for me" Kazuhiko spoke with a reassuring smile, kissing her forehead and making Seraphina's blush darken as she smiled and stepped back with a nod as she spoke
"Alright, I will. Good luck…"
"Kazu-sama will win…" Blaire spoke stoically to reassure Seraphina, drawing a smile from her as Kazuhiko chuckled
"I'll at least make sure he won't have it easy… Stay here with Sera-san and the others, Blaire"
"Yes, Kazu-sama" Blaire answered with a serious nod, moving towards the others as Grayfia spoke
"It's about time. Everyone, please head to the magic-circle." The Gremory group gathered on the magic circle, Kazuhiko doing a final check to make sure he had his guns and [White Fang] with him before stepping on the magic circle.
"Also, once you get transported, you cannot use the magic-circle until the game ends." Kazuhiko nodded seriously as he watched the symbol on the magic circle change before glowing brightly as the teleportation started.
…
When the light faded, Kazuhiko opened his eyes to find that they were standing in the clubroom still. Sona, Grayfia, Seraphina, Kalawarner and Asia no where to be seen as Metatron spoke up {Amazing, this is the dimension for the battle…}
(Hello everyone. I am Grayfia, a maid from the House of Gremory and today I will be the arbiter of the [Rating Game] between the House of Gremory and Phenex) Grayfia spoke up over the school broadcast system as she continued
(In the name of my Master, Sirzechs Lucifer, I will be keeping my eye on this match. By using both Rias-sama and Riser-sama's opinion, we created this battlefield which is a replica of the school, Kuoh Academy, which Rias-sama attends to in the human world)
[Home field advantage then… This makes things somewhat easier] Albion spoke up, Kazuhiko nodding as he took a look outside of the nearby window to see the dark green sky as he thought amused
'Yeah… I always wondered if I could destroy the school or not…' Albion laughed at hearing that,. Metatron just smiled while shaking her head at her host's thoughts as Grayfia continued explaining the details
(The location where both teams were transported will be their [base]. Rias-sama's [base] would be the Occult Research Club's clubroom located in the old school building. Riser-sama's [base] would be the Student Council's room located in the new building. For the [Pawns] to use [Promotion], please head to the enemy's base to do it.)
Kazuhiko took a deep breathe as he realised that he would need to get into the Student Council room to use his [Promotion], despite how much he didn't want to have to rely on something Rias had stuck in him, even if it did save his life at the beginning.
{Promoting will help your chances of defeating Riser… Even with the training from Karasuba and unlocking the fifth and sixth [Pawns] during the latter half of the training you will probably need every scrap of power you can get} Metatron spoke seriously, Kazuhiko nodding before Akeno tapped him on the shoulder, making him turn to face her as she spoke
"Here Yuuki-kun… Please put this transceiver in your ears" Kazuhiko grudgingly accepted the small pink ball of light before putting it in his ear as Rias explained
"At the battlefield, we will be using this to communicate with each other."
(Now it's the time for the commencement of the battle. Also, this match will continue till dawn in the human's time. So, Game starts now.) Grayfia finished before the school bell rung to signify the start of the match.
…
"First we have to take down Riser's [Pawns]. It will be troublesome if they all promote into [Queen]." Rias spoke confidently while sitting on the sofa, Kazuhiko rolling his eyes at how obvious that was while Akeno started to prepare some tea.
"Buchou, why are you relaxing now?" Mittelt asked confused, Rias smiling as she answered the blonde
"The battle has just started, Mittelt. The [Rating Game] is originally a game that doesn't finish in a short time. There are times when it becomes a [blitz], but mostly it's a game that takes very long, just like an actual chess game."
"Well you should be actually making plans rather then sitting on your ass now, Gremory" Kazuhiko shot out, Rias frowning slightly at him as she continued
"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 spoke as she spread a map of the school onto the table, the map itself was divided into grids like a chess board with English alphabet and numbers running along the sides. Rias drew a circle around the old and new school building with a red pen, marking out both bases as she spoke
"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."
"It would be easy for Phenex to just go with bait ploys to draw us in and then snipe us from the windows of the new school building… but he'll probably expect us to use the sports grounds or gym to get to his base and will position guards for anyone taking those routes" Kazuhiko spoke as he looked over the map from where he was leaning against the wall, earning surprised looks from the others as he closed his eyes and thought for a moment before adding
"I would think [Knights] at the sports field probably supported by a [Bishop] while a [Rook] would be in the gym with a few [Pawns] put in both places to make up numbers"
"Y-Yes… That's what I was thinking as well, Yuuki-kun" Rias spoke shocked, wondering if Matsu had taught him strategy and about Rating Games while helping him training before shaking her head as Kiba asked
"Buchou, its 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"
"If they don't just fly over it…" Kazuhiko quipped to quiet for the others to hear, Rias nodding to herself as she replied
"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 like Yuuki-kun thinks. The [Rook] with destructive power would work better then a [Knight] with mobility."
"…Yuuto and Koneko, you two set a trap in the forest. Take another map with you and make sure you mark te places where you ser the trap in. I will make a copy afterwards and hand it to everyone."
"Yes."
"…Roger"
Kiba and Koneko replied before leaving the room, taking a map and a toolbox with them as Rias continued "Everyone else will be on standby until they finish setting up the trap. Oh, Akeno"
"Yes?" Akeno asked curiously as Rias continued
"After Yuuto and Koneko returns, can you cast illusions and mist 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, Buchou." Akeno spoke with a nod, Mittelt settling down on one of the sofas while Kazuhiko moved to sit next to her as Rias turned to them
"Yuuki-kun, you will have to use [Promotion] once you get to Riser's base."
"Figures." Kazuhiko replied dismissively, Rias patting her lap as she spoke
"Sit here."
"Why?" Kazuhiko asked annoyed, Rias sighing silently as she explained with a slight smile
"I need to undo some of the seal on your body"
"Tch, you really suck at sensing down you Gremory?" Kazuhiko asked with a smirk, Rias turning confused as he started to explain
"I have full control of the seals you placed on my [Pawn] pieces Gremory… I've been undoing them as and when I have been able to control there power. So there will be no need for you to try and make some stupid gesture just to attempt to get my guard to lower" Rias' eyes widened in shock as she gulped nervously before asking
"How many [Pawns] do you have unsealed?"
"Six" Kazuhiko answered, resting his feet on the coffee table mentally grumbled
'Still not even half of my full power though' Metatron and Albion had explained it to him that his Mutated [Pawn] pieces were each worth two regular [Pawns] so while he said six to Rias he really meant that six of the [Pawns] inside of him had the first level of the two layered seal, unlocking that much power in such a short time wouldn't have been possible for him without Karasuba's training or the effects of the Dragon Apples.
Rias felt her hopes at winning the game grow at hearing that, Kazuhiko being that strong from his training would mean that he could handle more of the enemy peerage, before feeling depressed at realising that she had had no hand at helping Kazuhiko get to that level and that he was right about her being unable to help with him getting stronger thanks to Matsu.
…
Author's Note
Hope you enjoyed the chapter. Firstly, Blaire's human form is based on Saya from Project X Zone and hope the explanation of why she shows it here instead of when she first met Kazuhiko makes sense. Secondly, Kazuhiko's new battle outfit made sense to put in given that he can't use his original battle clothes in the Rating Game where loads of people would be able to see him and potentially link him with when he's using Metatron's powers. Plus Matsu was having a bit of fun with Kazuhiko with it.
As for Kazuhiko having six pawns unlocked I figured he would get a good boost from his training with Karasuba although it was more durability and physical then what he's been doing with Matsu.