dandyrr0403: Glad you enjoy it. The three way battle between Kazuhiko, Issei and Saji was something I enjoyed writing.
dragon slayer of death 98: Thanks. At the moment I don't really have plans for him to learn other magic although I may have him learn some magic from Harry Potter or Norse Magic during the Loki arc but would be the sort of stuff he can use with his Flames fairly easily.
zeldawolffang: Glad you like its inclusion.
ShadowUzumaki55: Yeah, do agree that Akeno and Kazu had a lot in common given their pasts. I haven't decided on Koneko and still kinda working with her taking the role of little sister to Kazu. Koneko and Kuroka's relationship should improve that that Koneko knows the truth. The fights going to be pretty good between the three of what I'm thinking of as the 'protagonist trio' given they each took a main character as inspiration.
OechsnerC: Thanks. Hope you enjoy how I continue this.
Raidentensho: It made sense to have Kazuhiko fight them both especially as they want to reach his level and having Heavenly Judgement not involved means its somewhat of a more balanced field between the pair. As for Kazuhiko's Mid Class status, that was achieved back after the Treaty in Chapter 22 for defeating Kokabiel and defending the meeting although I probably should have made more of a fuss about it happening then rather then just a small mention by Sirzechs. As for High Class I intend for it to happen at the same time Kiba and Akeno take their middle class tests as I figure besting Sairaorg would be a good enough reason for him to get it.
thehearne97: Yeah, they would be a excellent pairing given the reasons you've given. I just didn't really think much about including her before given the fact they are part of two different groups although I could easily work something in soon given Kazu would be helping her with her Rating Game school and Sona might want to test Kazu's intelligence on a more equal stage.
Arthanos: Thanks. Glad you enjoy this story. I do enjoy taking advantage of the whole Imagination based nature of Devil Magic and something I kinda half expected Rias should have done given her Japanophile nature.
...
"" - Speech
'' - Thought
[] - Sacred Gear/ Announcements
[] - Albion/ Dragons
{} - Metatron
() - Communicators
...
Seraphina watched impressed as Issei and Saji seemed to hold their own against Kazuhiko as they fought at the centre of the plaza from the VIP box with the leaders of the factions who had attended and the other girls who had been at the Gremory Manor, including Kuroka, and even Karasuba and Tiamat had shown up. She knew her mate was holding back somewhat between the rules of the Rating Game and not tapping into his full power but could tell Kazuhiko was doing it more to test the two dragonic Sitri [Pawns].
"So that's the young man who you met Rossweisse?" Odin spoke intrigued, Seraphina turning to see the silver haired Valkyrie blushing as she nodded before Kuroka cackled "Nyahahaha~ Kazu-chin does seem to be taking it easy on them."
"He's probably testing how strong they've gotten." Kalawarner commented, Azazel chuckling as he retorted "At least he's entertaining those watching as well."
"Of course, Kazu-tan could have used [Divine Dividing] to gain an obvious advantage from the start." Matsu spoke with a smirk, her focus drawn onto one of the other screen that showed Mittelt and Koneko.
...
Mittelt and Koneko walked along their path to get to the enemy base, using the huts and stores for cover to avoid being surprised by any enemies from the Sitri peerage.
"I don't get why I couldn't just snipe them." The blonde muttered, a bow made out of light in her hands already as Koneko rolled her eyes as her cat ears and tail twitched as she tried to sense anyone nearby only to occasionally glance towards the centre as she commented "Too dangerous."
"You worried about Kazu-san as well." Mittelt spoke with a fanged smirk, Koneko's cheeks reddening as she retorted "No. His aura is hard to block out."
"Sure it is." Mittelt replied sarcastically as she tried to move ahead, Koneko holding an arm out as she spoke seriously "Enemy ahead."
Standing several feet in front of them was two figures, the [Rook]: Tsubasa Yura and the [Pawn]: Ruruko Nimura.
"So you two are who we'll be facing." Tsubasa spoke, slightly disappointed as she added "I suppose it'll be enjoyable to watch Kazuhiko-kun fight afterwards."
"Y-Yura-senpai..." Ruruko spluttered out embarrassed, "You shouldn't say something like that with an audience watching."
Koneko and Mittelt shared a confused look before Tsubasa countered "I didn't say anything bad though and I'm sure you'll enjoy watching your 'Gen-kun' fight later on."
Ruruko's face darkened further as Koneko's eyebrow twitched as the meaning caught on, Mittelt letting out a cackle as she suggested "I wanna fight Yura-senpai."
"Fine. You deal with the pervert." Koneko spoke as the pair swapped places so they were standing in front of their chosen opponent, Tsubasa raising an eyebrow as she spoke "There's nothing wrong with watching men fight."
"Let's begin!" Mittelt called as she flared out her wings and took to the air, aiming her bow at Tsubasa and started firing off holy arrows down on her. Tsubasa weaved and dodged around them as she ran towards Mittelt, trying to give a surprise attack to a charging Koneko only for the white haired Nekoshou to duck under the attack and keep moving towards Ruruko to had took a ready stance waiting for her.
Koneko dodged under the high kick from Ruruko before throwing a fist which was dodged by leaning back and falling into a back-flip which she used to try and land another high kick on the Nekoshou. Their fight turned into something of a dance compared to Mittelt and Tsubasa's one, each landing a few hits despite Koneko being superior in hand-to-hand fighting. This changed when Koneko's fist grazed Ruruko's cheek, making her body shake a little and her eyes swim.
Koneko capitalised on the opening, cladding her fist in a pale white aura before driving it into Ruruko's chest and making a loud noise ring through the surroundings before Ruruko dropped to her knees as Koneko explained "...I drove a fist clad with spirit energy into you. Since damage was also dealt to the blood vessels flowing inside you at the time, you won't be able to build up magic anymore. Furthermore, the damage also pierced through your insides... You can't move anymore."
Mittelt blinked at the pair as she recalled Azazel's words about Koneko's fighting style [Koneko's true fighting style, which mixes Senjutsu and hand-to-hand combat, will certainly become a weapon the more she trains it with Kuroka. An attack that not only deals damage to the opponent's body, but also their blood vessels that circulate within their body will break the enemy's aura from its foundation. However, if she becomes consumed by power, she must stop using it immediately. Senjutsu can read and handle spirit energy, but it also takes in the malice and ill will that floats in the world.]
"...Yura-senpai, I'ms sorry." Ruruko spoke before she disappeared in a pulse of light which retired her as the announcement was made [Sona Sitri-sama's first [Pawns], retired.]
"...I have become a hellcat. I won't lose!" Koneko declared, Mittelt smirking as she retorted "I should finish this up quickly as well then."
Her light bow glowed brighter as the arrow notched in it split into three before she fired at Tsubasa, sending streams of arrows at the [Rook] who threw her hands forwards as she shouted "Reverse!"
The arrows changed from holy to demonic as they closed in on Tsubasa, the blue haired [Rook] punching them out of the air with her fist much to Mittelt and Koneko's shock.
...
Kiba and Xenovia walked cautiously into the car park area, the former leading the way to confirm that there was no one hiding under cover ahead of them before calling for the latter. The car park was very large due to the plaza and the nearby shopping centre.
They were about of the third across before Kiba spotted a silhouette in front of them, his eyes focusing to realise that he was Tsubaki Shinra, Sona's [Queen], in front of them with a naginata in her hand.
"How do you do, Kiba Yuuto-kun, Xenovia-san. I knew that you would come here." Tsubaki spoke indifferently, another girl at her side with a Japanese sword and had her auburn hair in two bunches. Kiba recognised her as Tomoe Meguri, Sona's [Knight], and knew she was from a clan that made their living exterminating evil spirits.
Xenovia unsheathed the blade on her back while Kiba produced a holy-demonic sword for his own use.
[Rias Gremory-sama's first [Bishops], retired] The announcement came, surprising the pair as Kiba thought, 'Gasper-kun was taken out.'
"How calm you are." Tsubaki spoke, Kiba replying calmly on the surface "Yes, since I won't be able to endure if I don't get used to something like this."
"Geez, it's because he didn't train his body enough." Xenovia spoke with a sigh, appearing calm but her eyes were still as a dreadful pressure came off of her as she continued "But even so, they took out my cute kouhai. I'll have to avenge him."
Kiba and Tsubaki and Xenovia and Tomoe both clashed respectively to begin their duels, sparks flashing from their blades as they clashed and let out ringing noises.
"...A holy sword!?" Tomoe spoke surprised, Xenovia answered with a smirk "Yes, this is the [Master Sword]. Matsu-san created this blade for when I can't use my true sword by using a bit of Kazu-sama's holy power."
Tomoe looked shocked as the pair continued to fight, Kiba and Tsubaki continuing as all four switched between offence and defence as both Gremory [Knights] knew that a single strike with their swords would give them victory against the pair.
Xenovia switched to defence as she made a hole in space nearby, making her opponent wary that Durandal would appear only to be surprised as a holy aura drifted out and wrapped itself around the [Master Sword] much to Tsubaki's shock as she asked "While keeping Durandal locked up in the space!? You're taking out only its holy aura!"
Xenovia smiled as she replied "Yeah, I was suggested an interesting way to use Durandal. I somehow managed to achieve it in my training. Now, I can use it more than sufficiently."
Xenovia was proud that she had managed to control Durandal's aura to do such a thing as it had been a suggestion by Kazuhiko, Matsu and Azazel to strengthen the sword Matsu had made for her to use.
Silver light and sparks flashed in the parking lot, the skill and sword possessed by Tomoe was surviving under the onslaught but she was gradually being cornered by Xenovia's speed and power.
"Take this! Skyward Strike!" Xenovia called, releasing a wave of holy aura at Tomoe. A ripple in the air appeared and Reya Kusaka appeared out of the illusion she was hiding within, stopping in front of Tomoe as she threw both her hands forwards and called "Reverse!"
Xenovia's attack suddenly changed from a holy aura to a demonic one, her attack trapped by momentum as Tomoe leapt over Reya's ducking form to destroy it without issue. Reya went onto the counterattack as the [Master Sword's] holy aura had been reversed into a demonic one making it more like an ordinary sword now as the Sitri [Bishop] soon disappeared again by using an illusion.
Kiba was shocked at seeing it happen, wondering if that was Reya's ability and worried what would happen if Xenovia received a counter from the hidden [Bishop] if she was still following Tomoe's actions.
"Xenovia! Switch with me!" Kiba called, Xenovia nodding as they switched places and respective opponents. Kiba was sure his holy-demonic sword wouldn't be affected by their 'reverse' as his power was blended together.
Tomoe renewed her attack against Kiba, the blond find he was now having to dodge of deflect magical bullets that seemed to come from random directions at Reya's hands. Creating a second holy-demonic sword, Kiba started to incorporate some of the skills he had been training with Kazuhiko's suggestions as they both took on a more curved appearance similar to the married blades: Kanshou and Bakuya's Overedge form.
"Those are...!?" Tomoe spoke surprised, Kiba smiling as he took a ready stance as he replied "You didn't think I wasn't influenced by Kazu-kun as well, did you?"
Kiba dashed forwards to strike at the [Knight], deftly swinging both swords to destroy the dozen or so bullets that the invisible Reya had fired at him around Tomoe. Tomoe soon joined in as Kiba was forced to use one sword to counter the [Knight] while the other batted away magic bullets, only able to spare a brief glance to Xenovia and Tsubaki's fight before having to focus on his own.
Xenovia and Tsubaki were slashing at each other, the former's furious attacks intense and she pushed Tsubaki back towards a wall that cornered off the car park. A small smirk formed on Xenovia's lips as she entered a posture to use a finishing strike on Tsubaki as she spoke while swinging down her blade "With this! This match is decided!"
"Sacred Gear: [Mirror Alice]!" Tsubaki countered, a huge ornamented mirror appearing in front of her. Xenovia's slash continued without stopping and crushed the mirror only for a wave to be released from the broken mirror back at her, Xenovia looking bewildered before she spurted out blood all over the place from taking the strike.
"When this mirror is destroyed, the impact on it is doubled and returned to the opponent. I am a counter-user. Kiba Yuuto-kun, it was a mistake to send the Power type Xenovia against me." Tsubaki spoke with a sneer, Kiba's eyes turned to where Xenovia was lying on the ground, coughing up more blood as he realised they had fell into their trap.
"The only one remaining is Kiba Yuuto. You're the only one left." Tsubaki continued as the two visible opponents approached him. Kiba acted quickly and grabbed Xenovia before swiftly hiding himself within the shadows nearby cast by several of the cars.
Putting down the blue haired swordswoman, Kiba started to use some of the medical supplies he got on her. He had been shocked that Sona had stationed two counter-users at the car park and even had one staying invisible to make things tougher on them. He could tell that Xenovia was in the serious condition as she had received double the power of Durandal and the Master Sword to Tsubaki's Sacred Gear.
'How much has Kaichou predicted...?' Kiba thought turning his gaze to where several coloured clashed in the sky and guessed that Kazuhiko was most likely fighting Saji and Issei at the moment.
Shaking his head, the blond turned back to Xenovia and knew that her withdrawal from the battlefield won't be long now with her injuries and that she'd be completely retired with the next attack. Rias was the one with their [Phoenix Tears] so he couldn't use them and his own attempts at making a healing sword hadn't bore fruit yet either.
"...Abandon me, Kiba. I'll disappear from this place anyway when I retire soon because of these injuries." Xenovia spoke as she grasped Kiba's hand, Kiba letting go of her hand as he continued to treat her and replied "Yeah, I know that. But, you know. I promised that I wouldn't abandon an ally so easily."
"...How soft... Kazu-sama would say the same." Xenovia commented, Kiba smiling as he replied "That makes me happy. Because part of me also thinks that I'd like to become like him."
"Become like Kazu-sama? You mean become a Draphalem?" Xenovia asked curiously, Kiba shaking his head as he answered "No. I want to obtain his willpower and resolve."
"That doesn't suit you best, though." Xenovia retorted with a strained laugh, Kiba smiling as he added "True. But, as long as I can move even a single finger, I won't fail."
"...I see. Are you telling someone like me to move since I can still move a single finger? What a cruel guy." Xenovia muttered lightheartedly as Kiba continued "If I fall down, I'll do what I have to do, even if I can move a single millimetre or inch. Because otherwise... the regret of not doing anything would be so painful that I'd die!"
[Sona Sitri-sama's first [Pawn], retired.] Was announced, Kiba glancing skywards to see the trio of figures still clashing in the air of the central plaza before he thought, 'Must have been Nimura-san then.'
Kiba focused back onto the situation at hand as he heard footsteps approach, deciding to show Xenovia what he had been working on as he appeared in front of the two visible opponents. Tsubaki speaking up as she prepared her naginata "Have you resolved yourself?"
A small tear in space appeared behind Kiba by Xenovia's hand, the aura of Durandal flowing into him as he prepared to act as he called out "Durandal Birth!"
Holy-demonic swords sprang up everywhere within the parking lot, the aura of Durandal held inside of them. The attack pierced through Tomoe and Reya, the latter who faded into sight trying to sneak up behind him and Xenovia. Tsubaki had escaped and left the car park.
"Kiba. That was a nice attack." Xenovia spoke as her body began to shine from where she sat against one of the cars, a smile on her lips as she disappeared as Kiba spoke "Yeah, when you and I work together again, we can make more holy swords bloom."
A few beats of silence passed before the holy-demonic swords crumbled and dissolved into nothingness as the announcement was made for Xenovia's retirement.
...
Koneko's frown deepened as Yura once more used [Reverse] to turn Mittelt's holy arrows into demonic ones which she could safely bat away or tank. Mittelt had told her to stay out of the fight but the blonde was growing tired from spamming arrows.
"Let me help." Koneko spoke with a frown, Mittelt shaking her head as she panted and drew her bow back to create a new arrow.
'Tch... troublesome bird.' Koneko thought as Mittelt refused with a shake of her head as Yura's next punch just missed Mittelt's head as she ducked. Koneko stepped in at that moment, swinging a aura clad fist into Tsubasa's side, making her jump in surprise to dodge it before an holy arrow from Mittelt struck her chest.
"I didn't need your help." Mittelt retorted tiredly, Koneko shooting a glare at her as she countered "Taking too long."
(She's right, Mittelt.) Rias spoke through the communication ear piece, (You could have let her get in close and used a 'Seele Schneider' to finish it quickly.)
Mittelt pouted at hearing that, Akeno stifling a giggle as she added (I think Kazu-kun would have said something like that as well if he wasn't focused on Saji and Hyodo.)
(Offence team, Diversion teams, can you hear? We're now advancing towards the enemy base as well using the former's route.) Rias spoke up as she and Akeno made their move to follow the path, Mittelt and Koneko's route across the arena.
...
"Stop holding back!" Saji snarled as he threw a black flaming fist towards after the announcement of Ruruko's retirement was heard, Kazuhiko batting the limb away with an [Asteroid] flame covered hand before countering with a palm strike that knocked the sandy brunet back before Issei started to pepper energy blasts at Kazuhiko as he added "You've not used [Divine Dividing] once!"
"Zero Point Breakthrough: Revised!" Kazuhiko called, making the rectangle with his fingers so he could absorb the magic being fired at him much to the [Pawn] duo's annoyance as they charged at him once more.
"I would have thought even a pair of idiots like you would have caught on that I'm testing you." Kazuhiko retorted once he finished absorbing the magic, slapping his hands together as he continued "Let's kick things up a notch then. Shirohime, Cambio Forma!"
Saji and Issei stared in shock as the serpent dragon shone and merged with Kazuhiko's Vongola gloves changing them into white, dragonic versions of [Tsuna's Vongola Gear] with a dragon head with an open mouth pointed backwards towards his elbows and clawed fingers.
"I can't believe I forgot about that." Issei shouted before Kazuhiko slammed a fist into his face with [Sky Flames] shooting from the dragon head shaped booster to speed up his punch before Saji's own attack was blocked by the other gauntlet before Kazuhiko smirked and delivered a knee to Saji's stomach.
[Divide!] Saji gasped out a breathe as his power was halved before a back hand sent him flying towards the ground. Saji shot a glare at him as he thrust a gauntlet forwards and fired a dozen blue lines from the mouth at Kazuhiko, which he avoided, before managing to stabilise his flight with a burst of black flames.
"Kamehameha!" Issei roared as he shot the beam of magic at Kazuhiko, the brunet swiping a hand down with [Aurora Flames] covering it as he countered "Fang Slash: Aurora!"
The slash of flames cut the beam in half making the two halves travel around Kazuhiko without injuring him before he had to contend with another attack from Saji who roared out "Fire Dragon's Brilliant Flame!"
Saji ignited both of his hands before combining them above his head to make a much larger fireball which he threw at Kazuhiko with speed, making a large explosion as it struck him.
"Heh! Got him!" Saji spoke with a grin, Issei shooting him a serious look as he pointed out "There's no announcement yet! Final Flash!"
"Fire Dragon's Roar!" Saji added in agreement, the two attacks flying towards the smoke cloud only for the pair to look surprised at the sudden call [Divide!]
The two attacks shrunk in size before they struck the cloud, making a bigger explosion and expanding the smoke cloud. It was blasted away after a few moments to reveal a long white cloak covering Kazuhiko's form, Saji cursing as he muttered "[Mantello di Vongola Primo]..."
"He got that dragon to change so quickly and without saying anything." Issei spoke surprised, taking a moment to recover his breathe along with Saji while watching Shirohime return to the gauntlets that Kazuhiko had originally had her turn into before as he retorted "I did say something though... You're shouts just covered up my whispers."
Kazuhiko floated to the ground several feet away from the pair, taking a few deeper breathes small bits of light being emitted from his Sacred Gear as an announcement was heard.
[Sona Sitri's [Knight] and first [Bishop], retired.]
"Damn it... Meguri-san and Kusaka-san..." Issei growled, dashing forwards with Saji at Kazuhiko as they worked on their part of Sona's plan. Kazuhiko rose an eyebrow at the pair as he dodged, blocked and countered the punches and kicks from the two young men who thought as Xenovia's retirement was announced, 'We have to keep him busy as long as we can so Sona-sama can face Rias. After all the Rating Game ends with the defeat of a [King].'
[Sona Sitri's [Rook], retired.] Was added a few minutes afterwards, forcing both Sitri [Pawns] to fight harder against Kazuhiko who spartan-kicked Saji away before Issei's caught his punch.
[Absorb!] Issei's gauntlet called, Kazuhiko frowning at feeling a portion of his power draining as Rias spoke up in his ear [Offence team, Diversion teams, can you hear? We're now advancing towards the enemy base as well using the former's route.]
Kazuhiko smirked at hearing that, sending a [Lightning Flame] enhanced knee into Issei's stomach and making him gasp and let go of his hand before an uppercut made Issei spit out blood as his head snapped back as he was flung backwards.
"Ise, now is a good time to use that!" Saji shouted, Kazuhiko frowning as he wondered what that meant as Issei snapped his fingers. Kazuhiko's eyes widened in surprise at seeing the dozen magic circles that formed all over his body from where he had been struck at times during their spars.
"Boom." Issei muttered as Kazuhiko flared flames over his torso while crossing his arms and tucking his legs up before a giant explosion occurred. Issei staggered to his feet, wiping the blood from his mouth and looking to an equally tired Saji before he started to chuckle "He's gotta to have been put down by that or at least severely injured."
A shockwave blew away the smoke to reveal that Kazuhiko had lost both of the sleeves of his clothing along with the bottom halves of his pants. The rest of his clothes and body were also roughed up but his gauntlets and Sacred Gear looked perfectly fine as he coughed up some blood before retorting "That was a good try... Probably would have worked if I didn't cover my torso in [Asteroid Flames]."
"What sort of monster are you?" Issei spoke shocked, taking a step back as Zirnitra chuckled and retorted out loud [If you both trained from the start as seriously as Albion tells me his partner has, you'd probably be on his level but you've wore him down a fair bit. Protection based flames is a rather unexpected skill as its not associated with the element.]
"That's how he survived those blasts!" Saji spoke shocked, Kazuhiko covering his arms and legs in [Sun Flames] to heal his injuries before being replaced by [Star Flames] that covered his clothes to repair them fully with an amused yet tired smirk at the pair's shock.
"Take this then!" Issei shouted, firing numerous large bullets of magic around where Kazuhiko stood, Saji gathering on what his partner was doing as he sent identically sized of black flames out in much the same manner.
"Hellzone Grenades!"
"Fire Dragon's Meteor Storm!"
The large swarm of large bullets suddenly rushed towards Kazuhiko at the command of their casters, Kazuhiko's smirk growing slightly as he thrust a hand into the air as he wings shone as he spoke "Let's see how you handle this!"
[Half Dimension!] An invisible wave left Kazuhiko, expanding till it covered the swarm of bullets before they all shrank by half as they still charged forwards but at half the speed. Kazuhiko spread his wings before shooting into the air to avoid them, surprised at seeing them follow after him still as he dove at the pair. Issei and Saji looked surprised but redoubled their efforts to hit him with her bullets even as they fired off more straight at him.
{I think you've tested these two enough, Kazu.} Metatron spoke up, Albion soon adding at what he was seeing from both Zirantra's and Vritra's hosts, [I agree, they've made great strides but no need to keep it up any longer especially as we're in the closing stages of the game and neither had unlocked a [Balance Breaker].]
'Alright then.' Kazuhiko mentally replied, recalling that [Half Dimension] had been unlocked by fully activating his [Scale Mail] during the training with Karasuba and Rhea. The newly gained power had been a surprise at the time and seemed a bit pointless until Albion had explained that it worked on matter as well magic making it different to his [Zero Point Breakthrough: Revised] and something good he could use on his surroundings to target multiple enemies in close range or even using his surroundings to restore his own energy.
Kazuhiko shook his head to focus once more as he covered his Sacred Gear in [Comet Flames] as they flared wide before disappearing in a burst of enhanced speed as he dove at them. The pair took to the air to avoid him only to both get hit with a clothesline that flipped them over as Kazuhiko appeared in a crater on the ground behind them with [Solar Flames] dispersing from around his hands as they now clung to Issei and Saji's faces to confuse their senses.
Dispersing the flames over his wings as well, Kazuhiko turned to the pair and formed a orb of [Meteor Flames] in each hand before aiming them at the pair as he called "Condensed Dual Dragon Shot: Meteor!"
A tight beam of dark brown energy shot from each of Kazuhiko's hands, looking only be as wide as a girder while the tip spun like a drill, and traveled quickly towards the pair who was trying to orient themselves in the air and pierced through their stomachs before continuing on until Kazuhiko dispersed the attack.
[Sona Sitri's second and third [Pawns], retired.] The announcement came, Kazuhiko sighing as he dispersed his flames, powered down and deactivated [Divine Dividing] before taking a moment to stretch as Shirohime returned to her default form and cooed as she rubbed her head against his cheek as he spoke "Great job, Shi."
Kazuhiko took a moment to look around before casually strolling towards the enemy base while looking for a stall that had something to drink for him before he moved off to join the others.
...
"...So that's the current Hakuryuukou..." One of the other VIPs spoke impressed, Azazel grinning amused as he noticed the girls whispering amongst themselves. The [Limit Break] that Kazuhiko and created without even knowing that Saji and Hyodo were doing the same would be interesting to see develop more as depending on who they based it on the power up would be different each time and be a functional [Promotion] for any person. A part of him wondered if Vali would evolve in a different way to Kazuhiko despite both being anime inspired to begin with.
The [Reverse] used by the Sitri group was something that Grigori had researched and was still in that stage so whoever had offered it to the Sitri group had so on the condition of getting date of it during the game. It was dangerous as it forcibly granted someone an ability that they didn't original have and could have shortened the life and destroy their abilities for the one using it so he would have to advise that [Reverse] would be banned from the future games although he had never expected it to be used in such a way.
"Hohohoh, what an interesting battle." Odin spoke with a satisfied tone before turning to Sirzechs as he spoke "Sirzechs."
"Yes." Sirzechs asked curiously before Odin continued "About that kid who has the dragon Sacred Gear..."
"You mean Yuuki Kazuhiko-kun, the Hakuryuukou, or Hyodo Issei who wields Zirntra?" Sirzechs asked, Odin shaking his head as he answered "No, I mean the other [Pawn] of the Sitri family."
Azazel's eyes widened as he realised that Odin had paid attention to Saji just as much as the other two as the Elder god continued to speak "What a good devil. You should take good care of that one. He'll become strong. The achievement of keeping up with the Hakuryuukou who was testing him and Zirntra's host is huge, especially as he was keeping up with his teammate as well. Watching the Rating Games of devils is fun because of this. Those three put on a good show overall but that [Pawn] started at a weaker position to the other two and still managed to give as good as he got. This is what a true match is."
"That's right, that's right! Odin-ojii-chan really understands things, after all." Serafall cheery spoke, praising her sister and her group as well although having watched with a tearful face before.
'Looks like both of Hyodo Issei's and Saji Genshirou's estimations have rose more then Kazu-kun during this match.' Azazel thought, wondering what the whole of the Underworld would think of the fight as they watched the Rating Game.
...
Mittelt and Koneko arrived at the junction on the other side of the whole plaza to see Momo standing in front of them, holding a fist sized rock covered in glowing runes with a dome-like barrier up to protect Sona, who greeted them calmly, "How do you do, Mittelt-kun, Toujou Koneko-san. I suppose I was correct to send both Saji and Hyodo to face Yuuki Kazuhiko-kun, given the waves of power I'm feeling from the centre."
The trio stood off for a moment before Tsubaki appeared from the other outer path, being followed by Kiba.
"...Sona, you're quite bold. To have come right to the center." Rias spoke as she walked over with Akeno, from the path Koneko and Mittelt had used, Sona shaking her head as she countered "Haven't you yourself, the [King], also moved personally as well, Rias?"
"Yeah, since we've already reached the final stage either way. Though it seems to have turned out a bit different then I expected..." Rias replied with a rigid expression, trailing off as she and Sona both looked to the middle where the trio of dragon [Pawns] were still fighting.
"I agree." Sona admitted, "Yuuki Kazuhiko-kun is a dangerous opponent as witnessed by his power during the Rating Game with Riser and his fighting style is diverse enough to allow him to adapt to various opponents, even in a restricted manner like this. In fact, a part of me is quite envious that you had gained his power and intellect but I must admit the spirit and guts Saji-kun and Hyodo-kun have to face against him despite knowing they aren't on his level but they are determined to hold him back long enough to win."
Rias and the others of the Gremory peerage looked surprised at hearing that, Sona adjusting her glasses as she continued "Rias, what are you willing to bet on this battle? I'm willing to risk my life. My dream is a very difficult one, even with Kazuhiko-kun's aid to make the elders see sense. If I don't destroy the obstacles one by one, I can't cut open a path to the solution."
"Rias, I will destroy your pride and estimation." Sona finished with, Rias having a sour expression before muttered "So, he was right that you would target him from the start."
"Yes, its only to be expected he would work things out and yet still went through with it." Sona smiled bitterly as she answered before they stilled at the announcement [Sona Sitri's second and third [Pawns], retired.]
"So, Rias. Will you rely on Yuuki Kazuhiko-kun to win this match for you or will you try and win this match on your own merits?" Sona asked, Rias frowning at her friend before she commanded "Mittelt, cut through the barrier."
"Hai! Seele Schneider!" Mittelt replied, creating a vibrating sword of light in her hand before charging forwards to cut through the barrier. The sword looked like it would cut through the barrier before a blast of light shot back at Mittelt from where her sword had struck.
"Kyaa!" Mittelt cried before disappearing in a burst of light which followed the announcement of [Rias Gremory-sama's second [Bishop], retired.]
"W-What the...?" Rias spoke shocked, Sona smirking slightly as she adjusted her glasses and answered "Hyodo-kun and Zirnitra created this barrier to absorb energy until it brims and reflects all of the extra back at the one who attacked it."
"So, that rock is a rune stone, then." Kazuhiko spoke as he came to a stop near the Gremory group from the path he had walked. He was holding a can of iced tea in one hand which he took a sip from as Rias, Akeno, Kiba and Koneko looked slightly more relaxed at seeing him arrive.
"Welcome, Yuuki Kazuhiko-kun." Sona greeted, Kazuhiko nodding back before glancing to Koneko and asking "Have you lost those cat senses of your Koneko-san or just forgot about it? Take a sniff over to where Sitri-san and Hanakai-san are and tell us what you can pick up."
Koneko frowned at the brunet, wondering what he was getting at before turning her attention onto Sona once more. Taking a tentative sniff, Koneko's eyes widening in realisation at what he was telling her before she spoke "That's not the real, Kaichou."
"What?" Rias spoke shocked, looking to see Kazuhiko nod as he added "That illusion is good but you've forgot that for it to be the best it has to fool all of the senses."
"I knew I shouldn't test this illusion against you, Yuuki Kazuhiko..." Sona commented bitterly as Rias turned to ask Koneko "Koneko, can you feel her spirit?"
Koneko nodded as her ears moved timidly atop of her head as she answered "Yes. I couldn't detect it before but now I can sense Kaichou's spirit behind us at the central plaza."
Kazuhiko blinked as he realised he'd probably missed Sona as he arrived or she'd been hidden out of the way while he was fighting Saji and Hyodo as Sona spoke "Hanakai, do it now."
At that moment the barrier dropped around Momo, the white haired [Bishop] throwing the rune stone at Rias. Kazuhiko dashed to push the redhead out of the way before grabbing the rune stone before it could strike him and looked surprised as the barrier sprung up around him as the fake-Sona smirked pleased as she spoke "Now, your [Pawn] can't interfere any more."
"What?" Rias asked shocked, Kazuhiko crushing the rock only to see the barrier stay up around him as the illusion-Sona explained before she disappeared "That barrier had one other important feature built into it. Should it be moved over a certain spot it turns into a barrier that seals what is inside and the barrier acts from inside as it would outside but also rapidly drains the power of those inside."
Kazuhiko scowled as his shook his finger after a spark of magic had shocked him from just trying to poke at it before speaking "Very good back up plan, Sitri-san. Draining me of power so I'd be retired and keeping me out of the endgame of the Rating Game... but its not going to be enough."
[Divide!] [Divine Dividing] called as it appeared on Kazuhiko's back when he pushed his hand against the barrier once more, gritting his teeth as the sparks of magic tried to attack his hand. The barrier flickering once as it worked to absorb energy to quickly reform itself and counter the sudden drain before [Rain Flames] washed over the whole inside of the dome. The barrier turned to a similar blue as they were saturated in [Tranquillity] which slowed down the whole barrier's ability to drain energy before a blade made out of [Aurora Flames] cut a long slit through it so Kazuhiko could step out of it with little trouble.
"No..." Momo spoke shocked and amazed at how easily Kazuhiko had escaped from the trap Sona had devised with Issei and Zirnitra.
"Rias-sama, I think the barrier from before helped make it seem like Kaichou was inside of it by hiding her spirit and location." Koneko added, Rias nodding in understanding before turning to go in search of Sona down the path Kazuhiko had arrived by as she spoke back to the others "I'll leave you to take care of them."
"Koneko-san, go after her." Kazuhiko instructed, getting a frown from her as he added "Help her find Kaichou at least."
Koneko nodded and rushed off after their [King], leaving the rest of them to decide who would fight who.
"Now then, how shall we do this? As two blade-users, shall we decide it by the blade?" Kiba asked Tsubaki who responded "That is also fine. In chess, when a [Pawn] is promoted, in most cases they become [Queen]. However, the battle situation changes if they promote to [Knight] instead depending on the setting. There are also a lot of differences between actual chess and the Rating Games, but this will be a good match."
"Ufufufu... Now, I get to show Kazu-kun my determination..." Akeno spoke with an eager tone, sauntering towards where Momo nervously standing as the former looked to him and saw him nod to her as she added "I'm trying to overcome my hate for a power that was given to me..."
Lightning sparked over her whole body before the individual bolts gathered together in her hand into a large ball which she fired as she uttered "Electro Ball."
"Reverse!" Momo threw out both hands at the attack as she shouted, aiming to reverse the thunder but only to end up getting struck by the ball of lightning which expanded to electrocute her whole body as she was wrapped in light and disappeared.
"It seems it was useless. She tried to reverse the thunder, but what I shot just now was lightning. Thunder and Light. The reverse of the light portion wasn't enough to reverse it all." Akeno mused before the announcement was made for Momo's retirement.
[Sona Sitri-sama's second [Bishop], retired.]
"The power couldn't be overturned when the power being reversed was changed." Kazuhiko added, Akeno nodding and turning to skip over to the brunet and asked "How did I do?"
"Very good." Kazuhiko replied with a chuckle, Akeno smiling at him before they turned their attention to watching Kiba and Tsubaki continue to fight and Kiba's holy-demonic sword being blocked by the latter's naginata.
Tsubaki's gaze shifted momentarily to where Kazuhiko and Akeno were watching wary that they might step in to save Kiba before deciding that it was better to face the blond one on one and took towards the route she had previous travelled down with Kiba following after her.
Kiba's eyes widened at seeing Tsubaki take out a small bottle [Phoenix Tears] from her pocket, wondering what she was going to do with them as she threw them at him before cutting it apart with her naginata so the liquid would pour over him.
"Reverse!" Tsubaki called, Kiba realising that she was aiming to turn the normally healing elixir into something dangerous. Kiba's free hand move quickly, a demonic sword of water which he used to send a wave of water to mix with the tears and render them useless before discarding the sword.
"If an opening is made even just a little!" Tsubaki commented, turning her naginata to attack him. Kiba reacted instantly as a dozen holy-demonic swords bloomed around Tsubaki, destroying her naginata as he retort "The current me has no openings."
"Gate of Babylon." Kiba retorted, tapping into another of the suggestions Kazuhiko had given him as a dozen blades appeared behind him before shooting off in volley towards Tsubaki, who threw out her hands and activated her Sacred Gear to defend herself with the mirror breaking.
'Good thing that I weakened those swords.' Kiba thought as impact was returned to him with double the damage, gritting his teeth in pain before thrusting his left arm into the air as he chanted "Petro, Basileus, Dionysius, Holy Mary. Please listen to my voice!"
Space warped and a tear was created near his hand, Kiba stuffing it into it as Tsubaki spoke shocked "No way!? That's!"
"In the name of the saint lodged in the holy blade. I release thee... Durandal!" Kiba finished as he withdrew the legendary holy sword from the tear. His other sword disappeared before Kiba placed his other hand on the grip as he slashed at Tsubaki to give her serious damage.
'So, she can't use it continuously.' Kiba thought at not seeing his opponent use her Sacred Gear again before he explained "It was Xenovia's suggestion. That, in the case that she became unable to function and fight, she would transfer the sword's right of use to me, since this sword is too good for her."
"However, your holy-demonic aptitude is..." Tsubaki started as she was wrapped in the light signalling retirement as Kiba added "I had no past. Because of that, I saw hell, but... I'm different now. Thanks to attaining [Balance Breaker], it seems that I can also handle Durandal like this."
Durandal was emitting a quiet and peaceful surge, unlike the violet and rampaging surge it normally released with Xenovia.
"Kuh! This is...! You can handle it better than Xenovia-san!?" Tsubaki commented, Kiba shaking his head as he replied "...Since Xenovia has aura temperament that desires power. Durandal may have also reacted to that. But I choose certainty over power. Ability over strength."
Kiba shook his head as he looked at the carved up ground from his slash at Tsubaki which had travelled farther then the slash had and knew he had got a negative evaluation because of it as he added "I thought that it was a stubborn steed that didn't listen to the words of its wielder, but it really seems to be true. It cut more than I thought... So controlling it is still difficult."
'I wonder if you would behave for Kazu-kun...' Kiba thought to the sword, recalling seeing Kazuhiko fight with [Castiel] and even with Shirohime's [White Fang] form.
"This is outside of our calculations, Sona! Maybe even equal to Yuuki-kun..." Tsubaki started as she looked at Kiba, "Maybe another servant to pay attention to is you, Kiba Yuuto!"
With that Tsubaki disappeared before the announcement was made [Sona Sitri's [Queen], retired.]
"Unfortunately... I am still very far off being able of surpassing Kazu-kun." Kiba started with a shake of his head, recalling how the Rating Game against Riser Phenex had came down to Kazuhiko and he had saw fit to destroy the group of them, even if they now got along better then back then.
...
Rias and Koneko arrived at the central square where Kazuhiko, Issei and Saji had fought, not much in the way of damage around from the odd crater in the ground. Sona stood near the middle of the area as if waiting for their arrival before Rias asked "Sona, why here? And how did you avoid being spotted by Kazu-kun?"
"I've learnt much from how our [Pawns] have grown before this match. The main two being the usefulness of illusions to distract or draw the eye of your opponent and the versitity of the magic we can wield as Devils. The duty of the [King] is the survive until the end. After all, if the [King] is taken out, the game would be over, right?" Sona answered, Rias nodding in agreement as she replied "...Yes, I didn't question the profoundness of that."
"I used illusions to conceal myself so I could avoid being found while I went about gathering what I needed." Sona answered, signalling to dozens of open bottles around where she stood as she added "Witnessing those three fight... Saji and Hyodo may not have won against Yuuki-kun but they fulfilled their duty to keep him busy for as long as possible. I will not allow you to make light of those children."
"I wouldn't dream of it, Sona. Now, let's settle this." Rias spoke as she stepped forwards, Koneko frowning as she spoke up "If I sense danger, I'll help immediately. I won't let you fall."
Rias didn't react at hearing that as she took a few more steps forwards before coming to a stop, waiting for Sona to make the first move. That move was for the water from the bottles to all fly out and gather around Sona's form.
"Shooting Buster!" Rias declared, firing a number of bullets like a machine gun from one hand each of which were made up of her [Power of Destruction]. Sona countered by manipulating the water and made it into a wall to stop Rias' attacks, the water being annihilated in the parts where Rias' bullets had hit while more water drew in from the surrounding buildings to replenish her supply.
"Now then, Rias. I shall thoroughly display my water techniques to you." Sona declared, the large amount of water starting to change into many different creatures. Hawks in the air, serpents on the ground, valiant lions, wolves and even several huge dragons as well to make a legion of watery creatures for Rias to face before even approaching her.
"Just as I wished for, Sona!" Rias replied with a fearless smile. She created dozens of softball sized magic bullets in the air around her, each a compression of her [Power of Destruction] which showed how effective her own training had been.
"Meteor Barrage." Rias called, sending the barrier of magic bullets at Sona who had her menagerie charge forwards to counter. The two attacks clashed in between them, Rias' magic bullets destroying Sona's watery creatures while they had been able to destroy some of the bullets shot at them although it seemed to be going in Rias' favour due to her power.
[Resign confirmed. It is the victory of Rias Gremory-sama.] The announcement was called moments before several bullets managed to get close to Sona who closed her eyes in resignation and muttered something.
...
Kazuhiko sighed as left the room he had been pulled into for a post-game check up by the medical staff, he had tried to say it was fine but had been told it was procedure. Currently he was standing in front of a vending machine to get a drink as he pondered on who had been taken out during the game: Gasper, Xenovia and Mittelt, despite having won.
Grabbing the can of iced tea, Kazuhiko opened it and took a sip as he remembered their estimation had been lowered due to how quickly Gasper had been taken out and how Rias had literally ordered Mittelt into taken herself out without realising it when attacking the barrier. Rias was mortified about the latter.
He also there were achievements for Kiba who displayed ace-class strenuous effort and Kazuhiko, himself, had earned a little from escaping the barrier and fighting both Issei and Saji without damaging anything but he imagined they had earned much more given his level of strength and being able to hold him off for so long although he imagined most of those that knew him were aware he had held back, even with the restriction placed on him.
[I imagine that there's going to be quite a few children trying to copy you, Hyodo, Saji or the others now that powers they might recognise have been displayed.] Albion spoke with an amused tone, Kazuhiko's cheeks turning pink as Metatron giggled at imagining it happening, {You could be a role model for the children as well, Kazu.}
Kazuhiko shook his head at hearing that, not sure if he would be a good role model for kids as he decided to go in search of Saji and Issei to see how they were doing.
"Please take this." Sirzechs spoke from inside the room Saji and Hyodo was sharing, Kazuhiko looking in through the gap in the slightly open door to see Sirzechs, Sona, Irina, Issei and Saji in the room with the latter two on seperate beds. Saji and Issei were both holding an expensive-looking small box as the former spoke "U-Umm... This is...?"
"W-What is this?" Issei asked, both [Pawns] trembling nervously as Sirzechs answered with a smile "This is something awarded to the person who excelled and fought the most impressively in the Rating Game. They couldn't decide between you so agreed that you both deserved it."
"B-But we lost to Yuuki...?" Issei started, Saji grasping the sheets of his bed as he added "T-This isn't a situation where we should be receiving this."
"That's true. But, consequently, that Kazu-kun - the Hakuryuukou was stalled long enough to avoid him becoming more involved in the game. We watched your battle in excitement from the spectators' room. To the extent that even Odin of the Norse praised you, Saji-kun." Sirzechs spoke, signalled to the medals in the clear topped boxes before adding "You shouldn't humble yourself. Even a devil like you both can aim for the top. I'm happy that I can see promising young devils of the future. Devote yourselves more, I have high expectations of you both."
"It's fine no matter how many years or decades it takes. Continue aiming to become High Class Devils." Sirzechs spoke as he patted Saji on the head as he added "...Saji, Hyodo, you've both displayed a gallant figure to a lot of people because you fought a splendid battle."
Sona was brimming with calm and self-control from her eyes to hide the happiness at the two gaining such a huge estimation, Irina grinning and hugging Issei for much the same reason as the two [Pawns] spoke "Thank you very much!"
Kazuhiko smiled as he quietly left them, pleased that the pair got those medals as they deserved it after being able to keep up with him during the Rating Game and decided to check in with Xenovia and Mittelt.
...
"Kazu-kun." Seraphina called as she noticed Kazuhiko, the brunet turning to see her approach with Kalawarner, Astrid, Rhea and Matsu as he replied "Hey girls. Where's Kuroka?"
"She's gone to see Koneko-san." Seraphina answered as she hugged him, getting an understanding nod from Kazuhiko before Rhea spoke up with a seductive leer "It was so hot watching you fight that pair like it wasn't much trouble."
Astrid shot the violette a flat stare before answering herself "It was very interesting to watch the whole strategy involved in a Rating Game."
"I'm amazed who those two picked to emulate to get stronger. That barrier was an interesting plan to try and stop you and might have worked with more thought put into it." Matsu spoke with a smirk, Kazuhiko nodding in agreement as Kalawarner joined the hug between Seraphina and Kazuhiko as the former spoke up "How is Mittelt and Xenovia?"
"They're both healed up already but the staff wants to keep an eye on them for a little bit." Kazuhiko replied, Kalawarner relaxing as she smiled purred into his ear and making him stiffen, "Looks like we'll have something to celebrate when we get back."
"Like you need a reason." Seraphina shot off halfheartedly at the Fallen Angel, noticing the growing smile on Rhea's face and the reddening of Astrid's cheeks to show that the both had heard Kalawarner's words.
"Kazu-kun." Rias spoke as she and Akeno approached, leading an elderly man with one eye, a long beard and wearing a hat and Rossweisse towards them as she added "Thank you for your hard work in the game. This is Odin-dono, the leader of the Norse Faction."
"Hello Rossweisse, Odin-dono." Kazuhiko spoke, more formally for the God the the Valkyrie, who blushed as she replied nervously "I-It's nice to see you again, K-Kazuhiko-san."
"Hakuryuukou, its nice to meet you especially after the report from Rosswiesse about your help while in Niðavellir." Odin spoke while stroking his beard, Kazuhiko frowning as he noticed that Odin was taking the time to look over the breasts of the women around aside from his own guard but seemed to linger on Rias and Akeno's.
"Geez! Did I not already tell you that indecent eyes were prohibited?! Since there's going to be an important meeting now, please pull yourself together as the King of the Norse Gods." Rossweisse reprimanded after hitting Odin over the head with a paper fan before Kazuhiko could say anything himself.
"...Truly a Valkyrie with no openings. I know already. It's a conference on terrorist-countermeasures with the Angels, Devils, Fallen Angels, Zeus of Greece and Indra of Mt. Sumeru." Odin muttered with his eye half closed as he rubbed his head.
"Well, it's fine. The world isn't full of only trials, there are many fun things as well. Advance forward while both fully enjoying and suffering through it all. Being reckless is the only way for youngsters to grow up. Hohoho." Odin spoke jovially before he and Rossweisse walked down the corridor, the latter looking back to see Akeno had joined the hug with Kazuhiko with envious eyes.
...
Author's Note
Here's the second part of the Sitri Rating Game and the fruits of several characters training is finally shown. Kiba pulls off bits of Emiya and Gilgamesh in his fights while Mittelt goes Quincy and Akeno uses a bit of pokemon.
Can't think of much to put here so I'll leave it at this short bit.