Sorry for the late update, Readers. I've been very busy for the past weeks, though everything should settle down now.
Hope you enjoy the chapter! ^.^
"YEAAAH!" "LET'S GET THIS STARTED!" "COME ON BLACK FLASH! I PUT A LOT OF MONEY ON YOU" "HAH! BE PREPARED TO LOSE THAT MONEY! I'M BETTING ON THE CRIMSON REAPER" "YOU BET ON A FALLEN ANGEL?!" "IT'S ABOUT THE MONEY! AHAHAHA! I COULDN'T CARE LESS ABOUT ANYTHING ELSE". Roars and shouts booms around the large stadium made of hard stones. The energetic crowd watch the large screen floating in the middle of the stadium. Four screens connect to each other and are face at each side to allow all the audience to view it.
In the south end of the stadium is built an even surface unlike the rest of the stadiums, which falls to five columns and extend in long rows that goes all around the stadium and stop at the platform. Luxurious carpet is fold down on the marble floor of the platform, and gold royal chairs are placed on it, where the faction's leaders will be sited.
"My, my, aren't the crowd getting rowdy!" Venelana comment out and release a giggle, though not because of the crowd, but instead of a certain someone sited next to her "Yeah… do you have to hold my hand so close, Venelana?" Yao reply, awkwardly and glance down at her right arm being held close by the Lady Gremory's hand "I just don't want you to get lost, plus it's been so long, Lady Yao!".
Walking behind them are Zeoticus and Jonathan, the two chuckles at their wife's antic. "Quiet the security you have, Lord Zeoticus" Jonathan commend, glancing at the six soldiers that are escorting them to their seats. Two heavily armed soldiers are station in front, back, and one of each at the sides.
Zeoticus just smile "The crowd can get rowdy, so it's best we have guards looking out. I've bought a fair amount of sits in the lower rows, so we won't have anyone unknown near us, spouting nonsense and we got the best and closest seats in the house" he said, though not in a cocky tone like other nobles, but just compose and kind, not bluffing about his rank or wealth.
Jonathan smile, when seeing the Lord Gremory isn't like most nobles he has encountered back in the day. "Thanks for inviting us" "Don't be. We owned your son a debt for helping our daughter. I have to say you've raised your son well, Jonathan. He's an interesting boy that has caught eyes of everyone" he commends, which makes Jonathan smile proudly, hearing his son gaining the knowledge and respect from a high noble like Lord Gremory "I'm overjoyed to hear that. He has always been a special boy".
The four reaches to the lowest row and start walking to the right, where their seats are at. When reaching the seats, they spot Rias along with the rest of group have already arrived and made themselves comfortable on the seats. Guards walk in and some stay behind, so they can be stationed at the right and left end of the seats. "Wow, you really took some space" Jonathan comment, holding an amuse expression and see some nobles giving the Lord Gremory a dirty look "I took some extra seats from the sides. I hate being cramped in" Zeoticus reply, completely ignoring the hard stares he is getting from other nobles.
"Hello, Rias!" Venelana greets her daughter with a loving smile "Greetings, Mother, Yao-san" Rias reply in respective tone, smiling at the two women "Hello, Rias, looking charming as always" Yao reply in a teasing manner "Indeed, isn't she just lovely. Took after her mother!" Venelana said proudly, much to the amusement of others and embarrassment to Rias, who's blushing brightly.
"Hi, Mama!" Asia exclaims happily, waving her hand at the dark-haired woman. Yao's smile and reach out to grab Asia's soft hand, giving it a gentle squeeze "Hi, Asia. You ok?" "Mhm-hmm! I'm good. Also for proper introduction" Asia grabs Koneko shoulder and smile "This is Koneko, Mama! She always looks after me and a really dear friend of mine".
Yao turn her sight to the shy white-haired girl, who is scooting closer to the blonde a bit, avoiding her eyes. "Ahaha, aren't you adorable, just like my little Asia" she giggles and send a warm smile to the Rook "We may have seen each other a couple of times, but it's nice to finally be properly introduce to you, Koneko. Thank you very much for looking after my daughter. She always has nice things to say about you" she said.
Koneko look up to the mother and form a faint smile "It's nice to meet you too, Yao-san. Asia is a dear person to me. I would do anything to protect her" she said, surprising Yao and Jonathan a bit, since they didn't expect the two to share that deep kind of bond. Yao smile in satisfy "I'm glad to hear" she utters, softly and releases her daughter's hand "I'm glad Asia has a friend like you, Koneko" she said, before Venelana pulls her down to seat "You can chat more later, Yao-san! The tournament is going to start soon!".
Jonathan takes a seat beside his wife while Zeoticus takes a sit beside him, at the end. "Where are the Phenexs?" Zeoticus question "Are those empty seats for them?" Jonathan question, looking at Zeoticus's side and see a dozen of seats still available "Yes. They should be here by now" "You know Rizel," Venelana comment in annoyance, shaking her head "That man is always late" "Hahah, very true".
The orange Phenex crest form on the ground, catching everyone's attention. The crest glows brightly before erupting in flames for a few second and scatter away to reveal the Phenex family. The man standing in front and center is Lord Rizel, who looks almost identical to his son, Riser. Rizel is a handsome, tall, muscular man with tan complexion, and sapphire blue eyes that holds power in them. Blonde hair like any other Phenex though his is styled differently from his son. His blonde hair is kept short, ruffled, and spiked, with two strands of hair near the opposite sides of his head falling over his face and one strand falling in the middle.
The Lord Phenex is dress more casually, a brown blazer with gold Phenex crest pin on the right side of the blazer chest-pocket. He wears a matching color pants with the blazer and black dress shoes. Underneath the open blazer is a black dress shirt that is kept unbuttoned enough to show his muscular chest.
"I heard that, Venelana" Rizel annouce in a deep and cold tone, snapping his sight at the Lady Gremory, glaring at her "I'm never late when it involves something important" he state and turns to Rias, his eyes soften slightly "Good to see you again, Rias… it's been a while". Rias gives a faint smile and nod "Yes… it's good to see you again, Lord Phenex" she replies, respectively.
Zeoticus, sensing the awkwardness decides to intervene "Take a seat, Rizel" he said, gesturing to the space next to him "It's going to start soon". "Scoot up, boys! Beth, come sit next to Lady Yao!" Venelana exclaims, waving at her friend "My, my, aren't you just full of energy!" Beth giggle and walk toward the girls.
Jonathan, Zeoticus, and Rizel sweat drop and scoot more to the right to allow Lady Phenex to sit. Ravel takes a sit next to her father while Riser plops down next to her. "It's a great pleasure to finally meet you, Lady Yao!" Beth said, wearing an exciting smile "The pleasure's mine" Yao reply back, kindly "Thanks for showing me and my husband a great hospitality" "Of course, anything for a woman that has helped us women. If it wasn't for you, women would still be housewives and never would have stepped foot on a battlefield and be treated as equals" Beth reply with admiration.
Yao smile "I did what I had to back then to survive, but I'm glad the path I left behind has changed your lives for the better… has changed the whole world. Sometimes I think I was a bad person, being the rebel" "For most of the factions, yes, but to us, who sees the bigger picture. You were a vigilante that the supernatural world needed at the time. You and your group has helped all of us immensely" Venelana said.
"They are talking too loud. I thought you wanted your identifies to be kept a secret?" Zeoticus comment, glancing at Jonathan "I already sorted that out. There's an invisible field surrounding us that blocks any sound from going out" "My, my, aren't you a sneaky one" Rizel comment, wearing a smirk and looks up to see a very faint golden barrier surrounding them.
Zeoticus send a stern glance at his longtime friend, knowing what he's going to say next "Don't, Rizel" "Why don't we have a dual, Golden Knight! Your reputation is quite one to behold" Rizel exclaims, ignoring Lord Gremory's word completely. Jonathan chuckle heartedly and smile "I'm flattered that you would like to fight me, but I'm officially retired. My wife and I are no longer the warrior we once were" "Ahaha, you say that" Rizel laughs and cross his arms, wearing a big smirk "But I have no doubt one day you two will raise up again and when that day comes… the whole world will shake" he said.
Jonathan just smile, but inside he frowns deeply 'I can only hope that the future won't force us out of retirement…' he thinks and glance to the left and see Yao sending him a comforting smile, hearing their conversation. Jonathan returns the smile and turn to face the arena ground that is dusted clean, getting rid of rubbles to create a clean and even earth surface.
"Where's Akeno?" Xenovia comment out, noticing the raven-haired girl isn't sited next to their King "She said she had something to take care of" Rias reply, wearing a knowing smile.
Inside Stadium: Hallway
In a large hallway that leads one way to either the exit of the stadium or the entrance to it. Both doors are made of hard wood and is build tall and wide. Between the exits and entrance are numbers of doors that house rooms where the contenders will be staying for a couple of days until one winner is crowned in the tournament.
Nawin exit the bathroom with a towel firmly wrap around his waist while using another smaller one to dry his smooth, flowing hair. "Mhm" he pauses, when sensing another presence in the room "You aren't supposed to be in here… Akeno" he comments, his lips form into a smile. He pulls the towel down and turn to the bed to see the Himejima sitting there, smiling sweetly at him.
"If nobody finds out, I'll be fine" Akeno reply, standing up and walk slowly toward the Makasha. She stops right in front of him and stare longingly in his eyes "Yesterday we couldn't spend time together and now you'll be here for the next few days… I just want to wish you luck before the tournament officially begins" Akeno said, cupping her lover's cheek.
Nawin smile, faintly and leans in to the Himejima's warm touch "I'm sorry" he whispers, staring back at Akeno's shining violet eyes with love "Yesterday I had my hand full of other matters" "Akame…" Akeno whisper back, her eyes sharpen for a second in jealousy, before it suppresses back to normal. Nawin pulls Akeno in for a hug, wrapping his arms firmly around her curvy figure "Don't be like that, Akeno" he utters, soothingly "She needed an ear to listen and as her king and friend, it's only right I help her. I'm not putting her above you, but she really needed my help".
Nawin feels Akeno slowly nod, though it was hesitant "Think about this, Akeno" he pulls back and smile at her "When this tournament is over, we will head back home and finally be able to live normally again. We will have all the time in the world to spend together, so please just be patients… just for a little longer" he said and leans in to kiss Akeno's soft lips.
The two's kiss for a few second before pulling back and stare at each other, smiling "I can't wait. Good luck in the tournament, Nawin-kun" Akeno whispers, releasing the Makasha though reluctantly and take a few steps back "Thanks, Akeno. I'll see you soon". Akeno smile brightly and nod "I'll be cheering for you to win this, Nawin-kun" she said, as the Gremory crest glows below and teleports her away.
Nawin stare at the spot where the Himejima just left for a few seconds before moving to the closet to get dress in his battle attire. Nawin exits the room and glance to the right, at the entrance and spot a large clock pinned just above the wall "… Five minutes" he utters and walk toward the entrance. The Makasha's room is the closest to the wall, so he didn't have to walk past any other contender's room.
"Hey, bro!" an unmistaken voice shouts and Nawin feel an arm sling around his neck "Bro?" he questions, turning to face the grinning Issei, clearly excited for the upcoming event. "Don't be so uptight! Anyway, excited for the tournament?" Issei questions "Indifferent" "What?! You mean you don't care if you lose or win?" "I'm not going to lose, but I don't care if I win" "You don't care about the prize?" "Not in the slightest. All I care is facing three opponents" Nawin reply, catching Issei's attention "Who?" he asks.
"Lucy, you, and that Fallen Angel… Akari" Nawin said and glance at Issei "Yours?" "Hehe, you know that you're in the list. The person I want to completely best in hopefully the first round would be that uptight Taiki Shiba. I'm going to show him just what I've learned during my training trip" Issei answers, his emerald eye shine brightly for a few seconds.
Nawin and Issei halt when they feel a heavy pressure push down on them. The two didn't wavier or show any sign of struggle. "You aren't all talk, lots would be in their knees by now" a cold and silky voice state, giggling. Akari stop at Nawin's side, glancing at him, holding a wide grin "I'm flattered you want to fight me… the feeling is mutual, just don't disappoint me, Black Flash" she said and continue walking toward the door.
Issei pulls his arm back, his expression hardens when feeling another presence behind him. He glances to the left and see Taiki walking past him, not giving a glance "You'll have to do better" he comments and resume to the door.
Nawin feels a hand slid into his and hold it firmly, making him look to the right to see Lucy smiling at him "Shall we, Big bro?" she said in her light and soothing tone that always calms the older Makasha. Nawin smile back and squeeze the blonde's hand gently, knowing she feels slightly anxious, even though she isn't showing it "Lets".
The three devils start walking toward the door together, all of them see the doors slowly open. Nawin expression hardens and give his sister a comforting squeeze when feeling her hand shaking a bit "Don't worry, Lucy. Just focus on your match and don't let the crowd distract you" he advice "Understood. Thanks, Big bro" "Anything for you" Nawin softly reply.
One by one, all the contenders enter the arena ground. The crowd cheers loudly at all of them and start chanting each of their names. Grayfia stand in the center of the stage and watch all the contenders line to the side, in a row, in front of her. Nawin gives Lucy one more smile and release her hand to stand in line. Issei takes the right while Lucy takes the left side from the older Makasha.
"SILENCE!" Grayfia use magic to raise her voice, booming around the stadium. Everyone immediately comply and stare on at the contender with eager and anticipation. "Before we begin. Welcome the Satans! Your Rulers!" Grayfia shouts, raising her hand to the platform where all the leaders will be seated.
The crowd gives a respectable claps and cheers, watching Sirzech, Serafall, and Ajuka walk up and takes their respective sits. "Next is the leader of Gregori! Give a warm welcome to Azazel!" Grayfia shouts, though with daring in her tone, telling everyone to be respectable.
Azazel appears in a flock of black feathers and smile at the crowd, seeing more than half is giving him a warm welcome 'Ah, those nobles and their dirty eyes. It never gets old' Azazel chuckle in amusement and takes a sit between Sirzech and Serafall.
"Lastly! From the Heavens! Welcome Lord Micheals and Lady Gabriel!" Grayfia announce, loudly. The dark clouds in the sky that hovers above the stadium are push back by an unknown force. Massive golden light rip opens the sky and three beams of light shoots down to the arena. Three figures descend down from the world of light inside the portal, their appearance is blurry, so non-could tell which is who and simply watch the three slowly descends.
Everyone watch the bright display with intrigue but also in anxious when feeling the holy mana pouring out from the skies and raining down at them. Causing some to shiver in disgust and others in great discomfort. The hole in the sky slowly close when the figure is near the ground. When their feet touch the ground, the portal shuts which cause the light beam to also disappear, showing the three's appearance.
Micheals stand in the center and on the left stand Juro. Everyone's attention turns to the individual in the right. Many gasps in awe and shock when their sight lands on one of the most beautiful woman they have ever laid eyes on. The woman, no doubt to be the Seraph Gabriel. She is quite tall, five feet and eleven inches to be exact and she has curly blonde hair that flows down to her waist with long bangs dropping to each side of her perfectly curve, pale face and glossy pink plump lip. The woman holds a pale complexion with a beautiful soft skin that many want to feel and touch. She bores a voluptuous figure that draws a lot of envy and jealousy from the women in the crowd while lust from the men. She also possesses a dazzling and bright green eye, exactly same shade as Micheal's.
The woman attire consists of white dress with golden outlines that match with a gold choker tied around her neck. The choker holds a golden letter N and L and by the way she's currently touching them with her right hands, it must hold some value to her. The dress's blouse stops just above her large breast, leaving her upper chest expose to show more of her soft skin. The dress is long sleeves and it drops all the way to her knees. For her feet, she wears a pure gold high-heels with red soles.
The woman's daze eyes sudden glows in life, which change into excitement and eager. Her eyes shoot around the stadium and down to the contender, scanning each of their faces closely. Her sight stops at Nawin Makasha, who is looking back at her with stoic and cold eyes.
Gabriel eyes widen significantly, small tears drip down her eyes and a bright smile form on her face. "My dear child… Nawin!" she exclaims in overjoy and runs toward the Makasha, who's cold expression breaks into shock, matching the same as the rest in the stadium audience, except for Yao, Jonathan, and Azazel, they smile at the display.
Gabriel suddenly appears in front of Nawin and wrap her arms around his waist, pulling him tightly into her to give a hug. The woman buries her face on his shoulder "My dear child… It's been so long since I've hold you! I'm ecstatic to see and heard you've grown into a fine man" she whispers with love and relief in her tone.
Nawin's first reaction was to push the woman away, but being held this close to her and feeling this warmth, it feels so familiar to him. He slowly finds himself to return the affection gesture and wrap his arms around the woman's waist. Nawin softly rest his chin on the woman's head and breath in her divine scent, the smell of vanilla. Nawin's expression turn into a revelation when he breath in the familiar scent. A static memory hits him and it shows Gabriel entering a house and he sees his younger self, no older than four-years old, running towards her, holding a bright smile and shouting her name with such fondness and love in his tone, as he jumps into the woman's welcoming arms.
"A-aunt Gabriel" Nawin whispers in quivering tone, his eyes soften and hugs the woman tightly, as he is afraid she would leave. "It's really you…" he whispers in disbelief, finding out that the woman who had looked after most of his early life is a Seraph.
"B-big brother?" Lucy stutter out, surprise by the whole ordeal and see just how happy her brother is by the shine in his eyes and bright smile, something really rare and it was the cause by the woman who is currently hugging him. Nawin hesitantly pull Gabriel back, both turn to face the young blonde.
Grayfia send a glare and emits her aura when seeing Lock is about to interrupt "Let them be. Any of you dare interrupt will be disqualified" she warns in her icy tone that send shivers down their spines.
"I-is that?" Gabriel stutter in disbelief, staring at Lucy while Nawin smile at his little sister "Lucy… this is our… Godmother" he states. Lucy, along with the whole people in the stadium are in the shock of silence when those words left Nawin's mouth.
"I-impossible! A Seraph is the godmother for those two?!" "Who in the world is their parents?!" "Huh, now that you brought it up… who are their parents?" "I'm afraid to know who is their Godfather." Many comments are thrown around the crowd, and Azazel silently chuckle at the last one, getting a dull stare from both Sirzech and Serafall.
Gabriel kneel down and gently place her hands on Lucy's shoulder, pulling her close. "You've grown so much, Lucy" Gabriel whispers, smiling beautifully and lovingly "I remember holding you when you were just born… I'm sorry I could never have stayed long to see you grown up. It was for your own safety that I left" she said in a low tone that only them three can hear while the arena is oblivious.
Lucy looks into the Seraph's shining green eyes and see just how much love and care she holds when she looks at her and especially her brother. Lucy slowly smile and relax her body from the Angel's touch "I forgive you… it's good to know that my godmother was their when I was first born, and you looked after my brother. I hope we can bond together now, Godmother" she said, causing Gabriel's smile to grow even wider and pulls the young blonde into a hug "Of course! I would love nothing more, my child!" she exclaims, happily.
Nawin smile, watching the two girls grinning at each other. 'A Godfather that is a Fallen Angle and now a Godmother who is an Angel… your whole family are one unique bunch, Nawin-kun' Sairex comment in highly amuse and intrigue tone 'Huh, that's another word to put it. A family full of Devil, Fallen Angel, Humans, and now Angel… sounds outrageous in my books' Tairex spat in disgust.
"Sister…" Michael walks toward them, holding a warm smile at the reunion "I'm sorry to interrupt this heart-warming reunion, but we must not delay the tournament any longer" he said, softly. Gabriel slowly nod and stand up, hesitantly letting go of Lucy "I understand, Brother" she utters, glancing at Micheals, before immediately turning her sight back at the siblings.
Gabriel gives a warm and breath-taking smile that freezes most men in the stadium "I promise we will catch up. For now, I'll cheer for you two, do your best!" she said, grinning innocently at her godchildren. Lucy gives her foxy grin points her right fist forward "Just you watch, Godmother! You shall see how much we have grown" she said "Indeed, just sit back and cheer for us, Aunt Gabriel" Nawin state.
Gabriel nod and turn around, her sight stops at the contender Michaels and her eyes widen slightly. He sends a faint smile at her and nod. Gabriel let out a quiet chuckle and returns the nod, before heading toward her brother. The Angels disappear in golden light and appear on the platform where the rest of the leaders are sited.
"Greetings, Sirzech, Serafall, Ajuka, and Azazel" Michaels said, giving all the leaders a warm and welcoming smile. Sirzech nod and gesture at the empty two chairs on his left "Please take a seat. It's good to see you again, Lady Gabriel" he said, smiling at the Seraph, who returns with her own smile "Indeed. It's wonderful to see you again, Sirzech. Azazel, I see you are looking fine" she said, turning to the smirking Fallen Angel "You are looking as beautiful as always, Gabriel" he jests back and gets a giggle out of the Angel "You haven't changed one bit, Azazel" she comments, fondly.
Micheal has already taken a sit and Gabriel is about to follow suit, but she pauses when feeling a heating glare aim at her. She smirks, knowing who is the cause "Please don't frown so deeply, Serafall… you will start getting wrinkles" she comments and walk to her seat.
The Seraph silently giggle when she feels the Leviathan's mana spike a fair amount by her comment. Michael send his sister an amuse glance, watching her elegantly take a seat and immediately have her sight focus on her godchildren.
Grayfia turns to the contender, her face holds an icy expression "Now, the display above of us" she indicates the large screens hovering in the center of the arena "It will pick by random to see which contenders will face one another in the first round" she explains.
The screen lights up and shows all the contenders name, then it starts scrolling through each of the contender's name for a full minute and stop. "… Issei Hyoudou versus Taiki Shiba!" Grayfia announce, and the crowd pops loudly for the match.
Grayfia turns to the rest of the fighters "All of you head up the stairs and enjoy the match. Make yourself comfortable up there if you wish and wait until your name is called out for the next round" she said, gesturing the small room build inside the stadium wall. The contenders turns around and make their way to the stairs while Issei and Taiki stare intently at each other.
"Go get him, Issei" Irina softly utters, knowing the Hyoudou catch it when he response with a wink. Everyone make their way up the stairs, the last one being Nawin, who pause and glance at Issei. The Hyoudou turn his head to the Makasha, when feeling his gaze.
Issei grin and lift his right hand up to give a thump up, causing Nawin to let out a quiet chuckle and send a faint smile at his friend, then disappear inside the stair that leads to the lounge room.
Stadium
"It seems like those two are fated to fight" Akeno comment, seeing Issei turn to face Taiki "Indeed, this battle is going to be personal" Rias adds. "Taiki Shiba is a prodigy and his records are nothing to be ignored. This isn't going to be easy for Issei. Even if he has been trained for the last two weeks by an Archdevil. Taiki has been trained by the strongest teachers in Drupada ever since he can walk" Zeoticus wisely comment, staring closely at the young devils.
Kokoro cross her arms and lean back on the chair "Issei will win this" she states out, strongly which garner attention from the rest "Why are you so confident? You know something?" Xenovia question, leaning over Yuuto to look at the Queen. "He promised himself that he would make it to the main event to fight with Nawin. Issei won't allow himself to loss until he reach that spot and the opponent standing at Taiki's spot is Nawin. Out of everyone in that lounge, Nawin is the person he wants to fight most" Kokoro said, looking at her king with admiration.
Jonathan lip form a smile when he hears Kokoro's word, while staring at Issei "Those two share a very interesting and strong bond" he speaks, catching everyone's attention "They are rivals, but they are also like brothers. They will go through hell for one another and would push each other to their limits to get stronger" he said. Rias perk up "Yeah… I've seen how Nawin-kun would always push Issei. Even though he used harsh words, I know he does it for Issei's wellbeing" she comments.
Yao nod and join in "Nawin has already lost a person he considered a brother and he blamed himself for that. Even though I thought it was impossible… Issei was able to make his way into that spot. Nawin is trying to not let the past repeat itself, that's why he is so tough on Issei." "There's no doubt in all of our minds that Nawin is the big reason for Issei's growth. I've seen how deep their bond goes when they battled against Kaizen" Elise said.
"Remind us of something, doesn't it, Beth?" Venelana giggles and glance at her husband and Rizel "It certainly does. Though Nawin and Issei seem to be in a more friendly term compare to those two back in the day" Beth reply, giggling amusingly while the two men roll their eyes and send a smirk at one another.
Lounge
"Big bro! Over here!" Nawin enters the lounge and see Lucy waving at him, already occupying a large couch and saving a spot for him. He smiles and make way towards her, taking a seat "Good pick, we get the full view" he commends, turning his head forward and see Grayfia standing between Issei and Taiki.
The other contender is spread out around the large room. Fallen Angels occupied a couch, same goes with the Angels. Lenna and Alis sits on the last couch and keep a large space between each other. Lock rest his back on the wall, crossing his arms and lazily stare at the arena with one eye.
Arena Ground
"Let's start this!" "GO SHIBA! BEAT THE WELSH DRAGON!" "MY MONEY IS ON YOU, WELSH DRAGON!" "MAKE THIS BATTLE TO BE REMEMBERED!" the crowd roars out all kind of comments to the fighters. Though the crowd's words fell on deaf ears, as Issei and Taiki glare intently at one another, disregarding anything going on around them.
Grayfia stare at the fighters and feel just how tense the air is, it can be cut right down by a knife, like butter. "I shall begin the first round by the count of three!" she exclaims, lifting her right arm up the air.
Issei gets to his stance. He bends his knees halfway, lift his right hand up just above his face and keep his left arm down to his waist. 'This stance… there's no opening like before' Taiki analyze the Hyoudou's new stance. 'Even if he got a new stance… does he have the combat skill to back it up' the Shiba thinks and gets into his own stance.
Grayfia cast a glance at both fighters, seeing them ready "One… Two… Three…" Issei and Taiki leans forward, readying. "Begin!" Grayfia exclaims, sending her hand down, then jumps back to not in the way.
Issei takes one pace forward and disappear in pure speed. Taiki drop down to dodge a right hook from the side and shoot his own right arm up to grab's the Hyoudou's arm. Taiki kick Issei's shin, knocking him down while pulling his arm back with both his hands.
Issei falls to his back and let out a scream when feeling his arm being pull back harshly. 'Get out of there, Partner! If he keeps a hold on that armbar any longer the injury will be too severed' Ddraig warn. "Give up?" Taiki calmly question, pulling the arm harder, causing Issei to let out a loud groan. "Like hell!" he retorts.
Taiki cock his head up when he senses mana being produce. He sees a rotation forming on the Hyoudou's locked hand and see him about to twist his wrist. Taiki quickly act and push the hand away, then kick Issei on the side, sending him sliding away.
Issei slowly gets to his feet, dispelling the rotation and swing his right arm around to ease the numb. "Not bad…" he commends, no worry in his tone, something which the Emperor's son take note. Taiki abruptly boost toward the Hyoudou in full speed. Issei takes stance, his mismatch color eyes sharpen, waiting for the perfect time to counter.
In the last moment, Issei duck down a clothesline and turn around. Taiki turns around and Issei immediately strike his head with numbers of right hands. Taiki stagger back by every punch and try to counter with his own right hook, but Issei dodge them and continue his assault.
The mask starts to creak from the force and Taiki take notice. He ducks quickly slither behind Issei's back, grabbing him by the back of his neck. Taiki lift Issei up and slam him face-first to the ground with such speed it would give a normal human a massive whiplash.
Issei shoot his right elbow back to smash Taiki's cheek, sending him barreling across the ground. "Satans! What's with that harsh grip?!" Issei swears, getting up and glares annoying at Shiba kneeling on the ground "That's going to bruise tomorrow" he utters to himself, rubbing his neck.
Stadium
"Why hasn't he summoned the boosted gear yet?" Xenovia question, confuse on why the Hyoudou isn't activating his power. "That's the interesting thing…" Rias speak, making everyone turn to her "Haven't you all noticed that Issei was able to perform the Rotation without needing to equip the boosted gear?" "Yeah… I've noticed that. He said it was impossible for him to use rotation unless it's with the boosted gear" Kokoro said, staring closely at her king with calculative eyes.
"He must be able to somehow wield the welsh dragon's mana without needing the boosted gear acting as the catalyst" Akame observe, impress at Issei's growth. "He must surely hold more surprises" Elise comment and the group nod in agreement while the adults silently observe the battle.
Arena Ground
Taiki gracefully gets up on his feet and lift his right hand to the mask, feeling the creaks made by the Hyoudou's assault. Issei regain his stance "I'm going to break that mask of yours" he swears "You aren't strong enough to do so…" Taiki retorts in a calm but seething tone.
Slowly, Taiki moves his right hand to the pocket of his combat pants, reaching for a pouch that hold throwing knives, but instead of getting all of them, he only take one and spin it around his index finger. Issei watch closely, seeing the Shiba hold the knife on his hand, intending to use it as a close-range weapon instead of throwing it 'He is still testing me' he notes.
Issei dash toward Taiki and send a roundhouse kick, which gets dodge when Taiki ducks down. Issei sees the Shiba point the knife up, intending to launch the sharp weapon to his leg. Taiki shoots the knife up with full force, but it misses when Issei use his other feet and jump up, but he wasn't done.
Taiki feel a huge force on his chest that send him sliding back. Taiki look down at his chest to see dirt on his black shirt and realize Issei countered his attack with a drop kick 'Smart… he managed to injure me and push me back. He is actually using his brain instead of mindlessly attacking me like before" Taiki state, slowly getting up to his feet.
Issei grin widely, like a dragon and points at the Shiba "Gonna take me serious now? Just to let you know…" he stops and smirk confidently "I had two chances to finish this match, but that wouldn't be fun would it? A warm up ending this quick" he said.
Taiki eyes sharpen in anger "Warm up? You dare treat me as a warm up?" he ominously utters and fires up his mana. The whole stadium starts shaking from the Shiba's intense magic. Everyone watch closely at the blue mana emitting around his body and produce a fierce wind, roaring at Issei's direction.
Issei grit his teeth when he is blown back by the wind, forcing him to release his own mana to counter the Shiba's. Red mana explodes around Issei, destroying the ground and anything near it. The two's mana is a complete opposite of one another. Taiki's is fierce but calm while Issei's is explosive and wild.
Red and blue mana clash together, with much force that the whole arena ground start creaking. Issei's mismatch eyes glare at Taiki's mask that covers the upper-half of his face. "I'm going to crush that mask!" the Hyoudou shouts and kick himself out of the ground, speeding toward the lanky individual.
Taiki throw the knife and as expected, he sees Issei easily swipe it away effortlessly and pull his right hand. Taiki jumps away, but he miscalculates the strength behind that punch and is send blasting away when the ground erupts in an explosion from Issei's punch.
Issei isn't finish and continue his assault by sending a drop kick. Taiki quickly roll away and push himself off the ground to get to his feet, dodging the devastating kick. "Come on! My morning exorcises is harder than this!" Issei shouts and immediately is punch in the face by a fierce wind blast.
Issei backflips and land on his feet "Crap" he utters, rubbing his bruise cheek 'What the hell… that wind just came out of nowhere' he notes, staring at his opponent, who's undoubtedly is glaring at him behind the mask. 'His power seems to involve the wind, keep your eyes keen, Partner' Ddraig advice 'Got it. Seems like he is finally taking this seriously' Issei reply and gets to his stance.
"You want me to take you seriously?" Taiki question out loud, walking forward "Then I shall grant you that request" he said. Issei suddenly feel an invisible force punch him in the stomach, causing him to stagger back and grip his abdomen in pain. In a burst of speed, Taiki appear on Issei's right and send a light backhand to the side of his face. The punch has more face than it visually seen and Issei is sending barreling across the ground and crashes into the hard-concrete wall.
Issei burst out from the wall and scan around 'Ddraig, is that wind attack? I've never seen someone being able to control wind like that. It's completely different from how Kokoro uses it' 'Indeed… It's like the wind he is controlling has mind of its own… he isn't controlling it with gestures like your Queen' Ddraig explain, eyeing the Shiba closely 'You'll need to go in blind… watch closely to figure out his tricks' 'Yeah… like Hunter-sensei says… Adapt in battle to get an upper hand'.
Issei slowly take one step forward and then another. He stares intently at Taiki, who hasn't moved an inch and just stare at him.
Lounge
"What's going on? What is hitting Issei, Big bro?" Lucy question her brother, eyeing the battle closely "It seem Taiki possess a wind ability… a powerful one. As you know, wind is invisible, so Issei must figure out how to find them and counter" Nawin reply, calmly.
Lucy turn to her brother, wearing a foxy grin "I'm guessing you already know the solution?" she questions and see a faint smirk grow on her brother's lip "I have indeed. Hopefully Issei will figure out soon… or he'll be in trouble'.
Arena
Issei take one more step and is blast away from the right, lifting him to the air and before he could move, another force is smash to his back, sending him crashing face-first to the ground. "Guh!" Issei grunt and slowly get up "Am I serious enough?" Taiki appears in front of the kneeling Hyoudou, questioning him in a calm but cold tone.
Issei freeze for a moment, shock by the Shiba suddenly appearance, but he recollects quickly and send a right jab, but before it could connect, Issei is blast back again by a fierce wind. Taiki let out a quiet chuckle, enjoying the Hyoudou's struggle "A dragon can't soar up the skies… because the storm will send them down" he states.
'How can I dodge a thing that I can't see? At least Kokoro's wind is slightly visible to the eye, but his is completely invisible' Issei thinks, standing back up and glare at Taiki. Issei feel a hard gaze on his right, making him turn to see Nawin staring blankly at him, but he spots something in his friend's eye, disappointment.
Issei grit his teeth and shoot his sight at the Shiba. 'He is going to continue this mindless assault?' Taiki note, seeing Issei start running toward him in great speed 'Alright then'. Issei is suddenly blast from the left, but he flips mid-air and land on his feet, continuing his haste toward the Shiba.
Issei's ears perk up and in complete instinct, he jumps to the right and the ground he just stood explode from the wind. Taiki gasp in shock, then feels a fist slam to his face, sending him crashing to the ground.
Half of the crowd roars in approval, chanting words of encouragement to the Hyoudou. "I see it now" Issei smirk and backflip to dodge another blast that destroy the ground. Issei lands on his hands and lift the left up while pushing the right to send him toward the right side to dodge another assault by the wind.
"You…" Taiki utters quietly, with seething tone "You didn't expect me to be able to see behind your tricks?" Issei cuts in with his question "You think so lowly of me… that will be your downfall, Taiki Shiba" he states, grinning widely and return to his stance "I'm going to show you and everyone here the power of the welsh dragon!".
Issei release his stance and stand straight, bending both his elbows up, hands near to his chest. Red aura slowly swirls around the Hyoudou while his emerald eye glow brightly "I'm done playing around" he states, staring at the Shiba with fierce expression.
The red swirl of pure aura turns into an explosion of dense mana that erupts the ground. The explosive aura starts getting bigger in size and reaching higher in heights. Issei clench his hands tightly and glare at the ground, intensely "This is my POWER!" he screams to the sky and the aura explode to the clouds.
The arena walls start creaking while the audience's seats are shaking from the amount of aura being release. The whole stadium is built to withstand these kind of situation, but it has limits and the Hyoudou is pushing it. Everyone stare in marvel and awe at violent and massive aura surrounding Issei.
Taiki take a few steps back in shock at the pure mana that the Hyoudou is producing 'I-Incredible! It feels like the whole of underworld is shaking… the amount of aura he is producing is equal to ultimate-class… possibly even Satan-class!'.
'Don't go all out, Partner' Ddraig advice, though he is grinning in anticipation, loving the feeling of his power being release in large masses 'Remember to save some more surprises for later'. Issei let out a grin, matching the welsh dragon's one 'Don't worry, I remember' 'Hehehe, then go on ahead, Partner!'.
Issei let out a mighty scream and the whole ground beneath him explode. Everyone in the stadium watch on in speechless as the red aura form into a massive dragon, resembling the welsh dragon. The dragon made of pure mana roars at Taiki, causing him to slide back by the fierce wind that the roar produce.
Issei lift his right hand in the air "DDRAIG!" he exclaims. The dragon roars mightily, causing the whole stadium to rumble, then shoot down to the Hyoudou's right hand. The dragon disburses to pure mana when nearing its wielder's hand. The large amount of mana slowly swirls around the hand, covering it. Slowly, the boosted gear start forming on Issei's hand, and completes it when the last trace of mana enters.
The boosted gear glows brightly and glint in red, causing a powerful wind current to push away from the Hyoudou. Issei smirk wildly, looking at the Shiba's shock form. "Now," he starts, getting to his stance, red mana once again swirls into existence "Let's get this show started!".
Next Chapter: The Prodigy Versus The Gutsy!