Prelude to Rating Game!
Issei P.O.V
The night before the decisive battle with the Sitri family.
We gathered in sensei's room and had our last meeting. Makoto hasn't woken up yet, but that doesn't mean he wont! Even now, Chelia and Serafall-sama are by his side, not leaving for an instant. I would be there also if this wasn't important.
So, we were having a meeting about the Rating Game. Right away, Azazel questioned me who had attained Balance Breaker.
"Ise, how's the state of your Balance Breaker?"
"Yes. I've managed to get used to it, but there are several conditions to it."
I somehow was now able to use the Balance Breaker Boosted Gear Scale Mail, but several conditions were attached to it, and I was still far from being able to use it freely.
"First, when I change into Balance Breaker, it takes time for the transformation to occur. The time until the transformation is displayed on my gauntlet's jewel. Moreover, when I have entered that waiting state, I can't use my Sacred Gear. Both doubling and transfer are impossible. Furthermore, I can only transform once per day, and even if I cancel the transformation before it ends, my Sacred Gear will be deprived of almost all its power."
Sensei nodded as I answered his question.
"Yeah, its just like the data says. Its almost exactly the same as past Sekiryuutei's. Though there were also cases in which they could use the Sacred Gear even once they released their armour. So, what's the time needed for the transformation in your case?"
"Two minutes."
"So the time was shortened thanks to your training and getting used to it. However, those two minutes are a matter of life-and-death. To put it bluntly, its hardly useful in actual combat. Above all, the time until the transformation during which Boosted Gear can't be used is just too painful. Since there are a large number of people that can defeat you within those two minutes. You have to think of how you can take care of yourself until you transform. Those two minutes are your greatest weakness."
…He instantly repudiated my Balance Breaker right to my face. As expected of sensei. That's why my objective was also easy to see now, though. What should I do during those two minutes until the transformation? Did I have no choice but to evade and run away?
"The normal Boosted Gears doubling and transfer are also important, since they have a wide range of uses. However, Balance Breaker is indispensable when fighting a powerful enemy. The normal state and the Balance Breaker State each have their advantages and disadvantages. So, for how long can you use Balance Breaker?"
"Yes, at full, I can use it for thirty minutes. When I use my power, it decreases more."
"That's pretty good for your first time limit. That's the results of your training. However, in an official game, that is completely out. It's out of the question if it's just thirty minutes, and what's more decreases as you use it more. There will also be games with long stretches of distance and time. We have no choice but to increase Ise's time limit from now on."
So the training I did still isn't enough. When will I be able to catch up to Vali?
However, Balance Breaker also depended on the time and situation. I had attained the power I wished for, but depending on the circumstances during battle, there would also be times when skillfully using the normal doubling and transfer ability would be better than using Balance Breaker.
I could use the transfer ability while in Balance Breaker as well, but the chances of me running low on gas would be quite high if I did use it. If I beat the enemy before I ran out of gas it was fine, but I couldn't guarantee that. Yeah, this really was difficult.
As I thought all these things with my very lacking brain, sensei made a poking gesture with his hand while having a lewd look in his eyes. I responded with a smile, and also poked the air just as he did.
Seeing that, sensei offered his hand for a handshake. I accepted it!
Yes, sensei! I attained Balance Breaker by poking Buchou's breasts!
I silently communicated this to sensei! With both of us mutually filled with emotion, we returned to the conversation of the meeting.
"Rias, Sona Sitri knows about the Gremory group to some degree, right?"
At sensei's question, Buchou nodded.
"Yes, she understands us roughly because she's a sneaky bitchy lesbian. For example, she knows the main weapons of Ise, Yumi, Akeno, Asia and Xenovia. Video recordings of our battle with the Phenex group were partly open to the public, after all. Furthermore, Gasper's Sacred Gear and Koneko's background have also come to light."
"Well, she roughly knows about you all then. So, how much do you know about her side?"
"I know the abilities of Sona, of her Queen the vice-president, and of several others of her servants. Though some of their abilities haven't been confirmed yet."
"So you're at a disadvantage in that regard. Well, such a thing is fine for a game or an actual battle. That is often the case in both the games and in actual battles. There are also cases of a Sacred Gear evolving and transforming during battle. You should pay careful attention. The number of your opponents is eight."
"Yes, one King, one Queen, one Rook, one Knight, two Bishops, and two Pawns, for a total of eight enemies. It seems she still doesn't have a full set of pieces yet, but it's the same numbers as us."
Iyaah, the conversation with sensei continued! Buchou also precisely listened to sensei's comments.
Rather, so there were eight opponents. On our side, there were eight of us, including Buchou, Akeno-san, Kiba, Koneko-chan, Asia, Xenovia, Gasper and me. It was the same numbers…
Next, sensei wrote something on a white board he had prepared.
"The Rating Game classifies players into different particular fighting-types. Power, Technique, Wizard, and Support. Out of these, Rias is a Wizard-type. The type that is superior in magic in general, so to speak. Akeno-san is the same. Kiba is a Technique-type. She fights with speed and technique. Xenovia is a Power-type that excels in the area of speed. A player that aims for a one-hit-certain-kill. Asia and Gasper are Support-types. Also, if you classify them with even more detail, Asia is closer to a Wizard-type, while Gasper is closer to a Technique-type. Koneko is a Power-type. And lastly, Ise. You're also a Power-type. However, you're also good at being a Support-type as well. With your Gift power."
"Sensei, I want to know what type Makoto, if you would."
"Why? What difference does it make to you?"
I narrow my eyes at him. Why doesn't he just tell me the fucking answer I want! Because one day, I would like to fight against him, in a battle. Its only fair, right? If we push one another, we become stronger so if I could challenge him to a fight, then it would be something I would be honoured to do.
"Just tell me already!"
"Ugh, fine. If you had to class him as anything, it would be a Technique-type and a Wizard-type. However add his Sacred Gear into the mix and he is also a Support-type and also a Power-type. He's a very well rounded person but he truly shines as a Technique-type you could say. So he is a danger to Power-types like yourself."
Seeing the confused me, sensei spoke again.
"The things that Power-types have to be most careful of are, counters. A troublesome class among the Technique-types. That is the counter-type ability. There are counter-types even among the Sacred Gears, but when fighting an opponent who carries one, Power-types like Ise, Koneko and Xenovia can have their situations turned around by a single counter blow. Its because counters return the opponent's power to them plus the power of the one who counters. When one is strong, its natural for there to be damage just as strong."
I-I see, it certainly is scary when your attack is returned to you. If the power of my Balance Breaker state in particular was countered, it would cause damage to not only me, but my friends as well.
"If there's a counter, I just have to overcome it with power."
Xenovia said that bravely. However, sensei shook his head.
"Its possible to overcome it with that, but it's another story when your opponent is a genius in that field. Avoid attacking as much as possible. Its better to face counter-users with the spell-user Akeno, the technique-user Kiba or Gasper with her special vampire abilities. Everything is a matter of compatibility. Power-types are simply strong. But the risk is big for them when fighting against Technique-types."
Xenovia was silent to sensei's explanation. Since Xenovia has an abundance of battle experience, she was likely understood his meaning. Sensei turned to look at me.
"Ise, you have Balance Breaker now, but do you think you can win against Kiba?"
"…Speaking honestly, she would probably toy with me using her speed and receive no attacks."
Those were my real thoughts. Certainly, I've attained the tremendous Balance Breaker. But, when asked whether I can win against Kiba, the answer is no. It's impossible for me, who has just attained Balance Breaker, to win against Kiba, who has attained it since over a month ago. Most of all, the difference in our battle experience was great from the start.
The power I showed during the time with Vali was temporary. It was possible when I was enraged. The power of the usual me still wasn't enough.
"That's how it is. Whether it is against Kiba or anyone else, you have openings for counter-attacks. Ise, if you don't create a counter-measure against counter-users, you won't be able to win against Kiba for life. That is what battle compatibility means."
Nuuh, so first I have to get past the wall of Kiba. If I can't cross over that, I won't be able to catch up to Vali, right?
Sensei spoke to Buchou.
"Rias, if there are counter-users in Sona Sitri's group, they might run into Ise, you know? If a counter eats up his enormous power, it will be an instant out. You need to come up with and refine some tactics for that."
"But, if the opponent is a female, the possibility of that is…low."
Buchou, what do you mean? I wondered about that, but I soon knew the answer.
"…Dress Break. Since he's the enemy of women, I don't think they'll want to fight him at all since he is the opposite of Mako-kun, disgusting."
Koneko-chan's sharp words! Ah! What a certain kill! I see, so I'm the enemy of women! Buchou was also nodding! So it was like that!
That's right, they wouldn't want to fight against an opponent who sends their clothes flying!
"By the way Ise, the fact that you attained Balance Breaker was noticed by people nearby during the attack of Bikou and the others. Sona Sitri should also know about it. You should be thoroughly careful. Since the possibility of you being crushed before you transform into Balance Break is high."
Sensei, you're that worried…I gave a bitter smile.
"Fuh. Don't worry. I'm an adult."
While putting my hand to my forehead, I responded with a nihilistic smile.
"What's wrong? Somehow, you were acting as if you've matured a lot?"
"Sensei. I'm an adult. Because I poked them."
Giving a thumbs up, I nodded vigorously. Yes, I have a special existence that has poked Buchou's breasts. I've climbed the stairs to adulthood.
"Ah, I get it, I get it."
"...I really hate you Ise-senpai sometimes."
Koneko-chan's words cut deep! Gasper is hiding behind her! For the love of! They are both scared of meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
"I'd say that the chances of you guys winning in this game is over eighty percent. I do believe that you'll win, but, I don't believe you'll win for sure. And the value of pieces isn't absolute either. Like an actual game of chess, the value changes according to the situation on the board."
Sensei continued. Everyone listened seriously and attentively. This person's words, had great effect. In the root of both the mind and body.
"I have lived a long time. In that time, I have seen a great variety of battles. That's why I will say this. I have seen guys win despite having less than a ten percent chance of victory. Do not take even a one-percent chance lightly. Don't believe that you'll definitely win. However, think that you want to win no matter what. This is the last advice I can give to you all in this training camp."
"Azazel! What are my chances against Chelia in a fight!?"
"Why ape?"
"Don't call me an ape Azazel! Just fucking tell me you cheesy bastard!"
Sensei rolled his eyes at Buchou who raised a hand.
"Fine, your chances of winning are less than one percent."
"W-What!? How could that be!? She couldn't be more powerful Makoto himself, right!?"
"Makoto is stronger than you also ape. Don't pretend that he isn't, because he is. Also, Chelia is in a different league altogether. She could take everyone in this room, if she wanted."
...Everyone made puzzled faces. Is sensei included in that also? Is she really that strong!?
"Explain yourself Azazel."
"Ape, Chelia has a very special ability. Her power of Negation. She can negate any special power. Makoto has a special ability of Combination. Think of it as opposites. If he can bring things together, then she can rip them apart. He combines powers together, she can negate them apart. The only real way to beat Chelia is to challenge her to a fist fight, or a sword fight. However, the chances of even getting close to her are minimal at best."
Minimal at best? Just getting close to her? How is that possible?
"Why wouldn't anyone be able to get close to her?"
That was my obvious question. Azazel takes out a pen and draws on the white board. It looks like a crude image of Makoto's and Chelia's heads. Azazel circles Makoto's head as he explains.
"Makoto is the up-close fighter. He fights the close-range enemies while she supports from behind. The thing that makes them truly dangerous is when they are together."
What passed through my mind was what the crazy Makoto said that time.
[I need her, she needs me. We need one another. Stronger together, weaker apart.]
So he meant that with them together, they are stronger when fighting together. That finally makes sense. I only thought it meant that he needed her personally, not in a battle.
"So, you are saying that it would be impossible to defeat them?"
"Not impossible, but pretty damn close to it. The thing you have to remember about them, they were groomed to fight. For years, they were groomed to fight enemies with strong powers. They are the ultimate monsters after all."
"Ooh~ Speaking about me are we Azazel~?"
[Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!]
We all let out screams at the mysterious voice! We all turn around and see Chelia...hehe, she doesn't look happy with Azazel who shrinks under her gaze.
"C-Chelia...what a pleasant surprise..."
"Is it? Is it a pleasant surprise for you!?"
"Ooh shit I'm sorry!"
She's scared Azazel-sensei! The leader of the Fallen Angels is actually frightened of Chelia. She is a scary person if you look at her when she's angry.
"Yeh...be sorry Azazel. Anyway, my ears were burning so I came to see what it was about. But, it was Azazel talking about me and Makoto huh. Well, it is something you would do. Tell the whole world what we can do why don't you!? Actually, since you shared something about me, why don't I share something about you?"
Sensei froze at the smirk Chelia is offering him.
"D-Don't..."
"Why not?"
"Please...you promised you'd never tell anyone."
"Ooh well, I suppose I wont tell everyone that you once made out with a dude...oops, did I just say that? Well, I guess the Fallen Angel is out of the bag now, hehe."
We all give sensei a shocked face. In turn, his face is mortified.
[You kissed a guy!?]
Everyone shouted at him! Azazel cried at Chelia.
"Why did you do this to me?"
"Because you keep telling people things that I would rather keep secret. Then again, it isn't like I would lose, even knowing my Negation power. I have other skills also."
"B-But..."
"Whatever, you kissed a guy. How was he at kissing?"
"In my defence, he was a pretty guy!"
That's disgusting Azazel-sensei. Azazel-sensei then burst out crying. Chelia started laughing at him.
"Azazel, don't mess with me. Anyway, I came to say that there's no change with Makoto, just incase everyone wanted to know. Vali is with him right now anyway."
...What did she just say!? She did just say Vali is with Makoto right now!? Isn't that dangerous!?
"Chelia! How can you let Vali near Makoto right now!?"
"Azazel, I might make lots of mistakes, but there's something I do know about, love. Even if Vali is a terrorist or whatever, it isn't like she is going to hurt him. And I had personal business with Vali anyway. So, if anyone tries to remove Vali, they will answer to me."
Ooh shit. She's scary when she is acting scary. I wouldn't want to take her on. She's too frightening.
"Ok..."
"Damn straight ok. Anyway, I have to go now."
With that she disappears out the door. Azazel shook when she left. She must've scared him more than I thought she did.
The day of the decisive battle.
There was a huge magic circle underneath the Gremory castle for the exclusive use of transporting us to the game area.
Our group gathered on top of the magic circle, and prepared to transport to the game area, where the battle would soon be commencing.
Besides Asia and Xenovia, we were all wearing our Kuou Academy summer uniforms. Asia was in her sister clothes, and Xenovia was wearing her bondage-like battle clothes that she had worn the first time we met. Both of them seemed to be full of fighting spirit. And the Sitri side also seemed to be wearing their Kuou Academy uniforms.
Buchou's father, mother, Millicas-sama and Azazel-sensei spoke from outside of the magic circle.
"Rias, you've lost once before. Win for sure this time."
"Fight a battle that won't make you ashamed as the next head of the family. Everyone else as well, okay?"
"Do your best, Rias-nee-sama!"
"Well, I've taught you about the things you needed to be informed about this time. All that's left is to exert yourselves and go all out."
Sirzechs-sama and Grayfia-san weren't here, but they seemed to have already moved to a spectator's lounge for the exclusive use of VIPs. It was said that not only the leaders of the three great powers were present, but also VIPS from the other powers were invited. It seemed that sensei would be heading there after this.
Our game was getting a lot of attention… As expected, among the promising young Devils, the fight between the two little sisters of the Maous was being basked in attention…
A feeling of tension floated in the air, but the magic circle mercilessly began to shine.
At last, the game had begun!
The place we arrived at after jumping through the magic circle was—a place full of tables.
…This was a wide restaurant somewhere? When I thought that and looked at the surroundings, it seemed to be a dining floor, with fast-food restaurants surrounding the tables.
Was this also an exact replica of a real place, prepared in a space for our exclusive use? The power of devils was just as amazing as usual.
Huh? I feel like I've seen this place somewhere before… Things like the shop arrangement matched somewhere within my memories.
I stepped out from this floor a bit and looked around the interior. There was a vast shopping mall there.
Familiar stores were lined up within the interior, and there was a glass-ceiling atrium! Light spilled down through the glass.
This oblong shopping mall and this glass atrium! They were ones that I knew well!
"I didn't expect that the department store near Kuou Academy would serve as the stage."
Buchou said this as she came up next to me.
Yes, the game stage was the department store we often went to! At that time, we heard an announcement in the store!
[Good day to everyone out there! I, the Queen's replacement of the Leviathan group, Chelia, will be carrying the role of arbiter in the Rating Game between the Gremory group and the Sitri group on this occasion. Originally, my cute Otouto Makoto was supposed to be the arbiter for this match since Grayfia-chan asked him too, however he is indisposed at the moment and I didn't want to let my cute Otouto down so, lets get along!]
Chelia!? She's going to be the arbiter of this match in the place of Makoto? So Makoto was originally going to do this, but Chelia has taken his place instead. So she really is Serafall-sama's replacement Queen after all.
[In the name of Makoto's Master, Serafall Leviathan-chan, I will watch over the battle between these two families. Its a pleasure to be here today! To get right to the main topic, the battlefield for today is the department store within the neighbourhood of the school Kuou Academy that Rias-sama and Sona-sama attend, which has been prepared within a separate space as the game field.]
Since the game field was once more somewhere that we were familiar with, you would think that it would make things easy for us, but the same goes for the Sitri group as well. Since they've also come to this department store many times.
This department store which had become our battle stage was a two-storied building. It wasn't that big in terms of height.
However, it was a long shopping mall across its two floors and the atrium, so it was considerably large horizontally. The rooftop was a parking lot. Besides that, there was also a multi-storey parking garage elsewhere.
[Both groups have been transported to their respective bases. Rias-sama's base is on the second floor of the east side, while Sona-sama's base is on the first floor of the west side. In order for Pawns to promote, please go to your opponent's bases.]
Our base and our enemies base were on opposite ends of the department store. We were on the second floor's most eastern side. The opponents were on the first floor's most western side. Around our base, there was a pet shop, an arcade centre, a dining floor, a bookshop and a drugstore. On the first floor beneath our base, there was a branch store of a major second-hand bookshop company, and a sports-supplies shop.
Over on the opponent's side, there was a grocery shop, an electrical appliance store, a junk food shop, and a general goods store.
During the battle, each side would have to respectively head towards the other end of the department. That was simple and clear, but it wouldn't go like that.
[This time, there will be special rules. Documents on this have been sent to each group, so please check them. A single bottle of the healing item Phoenix Tears has been provided to each team. Furthermore, the time to strategise before the battle is thirty minutes. Contact with the opponent during this time is forbidden. If you meet with one another, then I will chop off your heads! Kidding! But seriously don't meet up or I will evict you from the game, as I have the power to do such things! The game is scheduled to start after thirty minutes. Then, let the strategy time begin. Please everyone do your best!]
After the announcement, everyone quickly gathered together. We couldn't waste even one minute of this time. However, Chelia was very upbeat then. I guess she didn't want to let Makoto down at all. Since she still blames herself for such things.
"The battlefield is modelled on the department store near Kuou Academy. So it's an indoor battle."
Buchou said this while looking at a guide map of the department store's interior that was depicted on the dining floor's wall. There was also a personal diagram of the place divided into chess squares in Buchou's hands.
We had encamped ourselves in the aforementioned dining floor and were planning out our strategy.
An indoor battle! So the Rating Game has that kind of battlefield as well!
I thought about how each side had a base on this certainly wide battlefield, and how we would have to run around within this field. It was like that during the House of Phenex battle as well.
Rather, the stage was the department store near our school! This was a place we often came to on our way back from school.
"The rule this time states 'Don't destroy the department store which has become the battlefield' in other words, we can't do any showy battles."
Buchou narrowed her eyes and seemed to be thinking about this rule.
"…I see, so to me, Akeno-san, and Ise, this is a disadvantageous battlefield. We can't do attacks that affect a wide area."
It was just as Xenovia said. By saying that it was an interior battle and furthermore that the building itself couldn't be destroyed, I couldn't use my Boosted Gear-raised Dragon Shot! The great fire attack that used doubled fire magic, which I obtained at great pains in the training with Tannin-ossan, was also impossible here! It would turn into a conflagration! Akeno-san also couldn't use her extra-large lightning attack by creating thunder clouds unless she was on the rooftop, right? It seemed that, if she didn't suppress her power, she could deal damage to the building as well!
Xenovia also wouldn't be able to unleash her holy slashing wave with Durandal either. Even at the best of times, it was a sword that gushed out a holy aura even in its drawn state, so it couldn't be recklessly swung in order to not break the rule.
"That really is troublesome. A battle of large mass attacks has been mostly sealed."
Akeno-san put a hand against her cheek with a troubled face. She gave her opinion after letting out a sigh.
"Gasper-chan's eyes also won't be as effective. There are too many places to hide within the department store. All the goods and products have also been exactly reproduced, so there is an overflowing amount of objects to obstruct her vision. There is also the possibility of surprise attack in the dark…Its troubling. This is a disadvantageous battlefield for our special characteristics. Because the Rias Gremory group's forte is to battle showily, we're completely sealed."
Damn. I believed that we were strong, but everything has completely changed just because of this rule!
Buchou shook her head at Akeno-san's words.
"No, Gasper's eyes couldn't be used from the start. They put in a restriction on it here. 'The use of Gasper Vladi's Sacred Gear is forbidden' it says that. The reason is clear and simple. Since she still can't perfectly control it yet. They judged that it would be problematic if the entire game was spoiled by her eyes going out of control. Giving her Ise's blood is also prohibited. It seemed that they've provided her with Sacred Gear-sealing glasses developed by Azazel. 'Since it was made for Gasper's exclusive use, it won't have any particular bad influence on her body' so it says here. Really, he likes to prepare."
What another problem! So Gasper's Sacred Gear couldn't be used! Now that you mention it, I heard that Gasper's training didn't go well in regards to her Sacred Gear. She made a lot of progress, but it seems it will still take quite a bit of time for Gasper to master her eyes. Besides, I doubt it would be good even if she simply unleashed it.
"Then, will Gasper fight using magic and her vampire abilities?"
Buchou nodded at my question.
"That's right. From the beginning, her time-stopping power carried a lot of risk. The other side has not only the counter-types I mentioned before, but also Saji-kun, who possesses a Sacred Gear that absorbs the ability of others, so we don't know what kind of counterattacks they'll use. There are also other technique's to take away a person's vision. When talking about such things, it becomes impossible to use that power in either the games or actual battle. Using meticulous caution is only natural."
Vali also said the same thing as Buchou. That if you know that the ability activates from the eyes, its easy to deal with it. Buchou continued. Ah, Gasper had put on the glasses right away.
"…The Rating Game isn't something you can win simply by having a lot of power. The battle situation changes completely according to the battlefield and rules. Because this is a ground where even Devils that lack strength can depend on wisdom and rise higher, it has become popular in the Underworld and among the other powers. The rules this time may be disadvantageous to us. However, if we can't make up for this, we won't be able to win and advance in the games from now on. Even a Pawn can take down the King. This is not only a basic rule in chess, but also a proverb of the Rating Games. In other words, it implies that anyone can win with the proper method."
Akeno-san also approved of Buchou's words and nodded.
"That's right. There may be indoor battles like this on true battlefields as well from now on. If that were the case, we wouldn't be able to completely display our power like today. This may be a good opportunity for us. Today's battle is most suitable for getting used to indoor team battles."
Among this discussion where all the smart people were talking, I timidly raised my hand.
"U-Umm, Buchou. While I desperately trained to attain Balance Breaker and raise my power, I didn't practice holding back my power when fighting…"
"I know. This time, things came completely opposite from what we expected. Although the battlefield and rules are decided randomly, this game may be close to being the worst for Ise. Your power is too enormous. According to the rule, destroying the building means an instant out. However, there's sure to be somewhere where you'll be able to use Balance Breaker. But please hold back your power as much as possible while fighting. Don't shoot your Dragon Shot as much as possible as well. The department store may be blown away. Please survive with just hand-to-hand fighting somehow…I'm sorry for asking such difficult things from you."
"…Y-Yes. Rather, to be honest, I'm really worried, but…"
Seriously. As a Power-type, I was really at a disadvantage at a time like this. Oh well. Since I'm aiming for the top and will be participating in the games from now on, I have to get used to this kind of battle as well.
"Even if we attack, the atrium of this shopping mall is a problem. You can grasp the progress of the opponent from both the first and second floors. It's the same for the other side."
Buchou said this while looking at the interior of the store. Akeno-san also expressed her opinion.
"I've considered an attack from the parking garage as well, but they would also be looking out for that too."
"Yes, it's the same for moving from the rooftop. Whether it be breaking through the centre, from the rooftop, or from the parking garage, we have to advance along these routes. Since we can't leave the department store itself."
"There should be cars in the parking garage as well. That's what I feel, after seeing that they reproduced even the merchandise and merchandise shelves. They may have copied the cars that were parked there."
The discussion between Buchou and her Queen Akeno-san had somehow become really diligent. Yeah, this reconfirmed once again what the Queen was to the King.
Kiba raised her hand and gave a proposal.
"Buchou, I'll go look at the rooftop and parking garage. Since there are stairs nearby, I'll go check them out."
Buchou nodded.
"Please do, Yumi."
Kiba immediately headed out at a quick pace.
"Are the cars important somehow?"
I asked that question honestly. Why were they that worried about the presence of cars here?
"If they plunge into the store interior with a car, it'd be serious, you know? Besides, we have to openly consider the possibility that they'll use the car itself as a bomb. Though I don't think that someone like Sona would do something like recklessly driving inside the department store. Then again, it is Sona we are talking about. That crazy bitch will do anything for the sexual thrill..."
So said Buchou. Ah, I see. She really is thorough about this. Everything on the battlefield can also become a weapon. When thought of like that, a car was a big weapon. Although I didn't get the sexual thrill part.
"You're really cautious."
"Naturally. I still feel like this isn't enough. Its also possible for someone to rest and hide inside cars. Now that I think about it, we haven't seen the inside of the staff room before. We should go check it…Even if we have Ise's Dress Break, there are many clothes in brand stores within the mall…Since its a department store, there are an endless number of things to consider."
Buchou then gave instructions to Gasper next.
"Gasper, please change into bats and fly to every location within the department store. In the opening of the game, you'll inform us of the situation within the department store in detail."
"R-Roger!"
Ooh, Gasper also had some fighting spirit. That's right, to her, this is her first game.
The strategy-planning continued on after that as well and we decided on even the minute tactics.
Then, once half the time had passed since the strategy session started, we had solidified our plan.
Buchou looked around at us and spoke.
"The game will be starting fifteen minutes from now. We'll gather here again in ten minutes. Everyone, please remain on standby with your respective methods of relaxing until then."
At Buchou's words, we all broke up and walked away. However, Buchou called out and stopped just me.
"Ise, since you attained Balance Breaker, the power of the eight Pawn pieces I placed in you have all been forcibly released."
Yes, it was just as Buchou said. By attaining Balance Breaker, the power of the sealed pieces inside me had been released.
"With this, you may be able to completely use Ddraig's power, but your body still can't handle it. Ddraig should also save power in order not to break your body. Be careful. If you make a mistake with the Sekiryuutei's power, the host's body will be destroyed."
"Yes! I'll be sufficiently careful, Buchou!"
After that, Buchou entered a shop on the dining floor and began to pour herself some tea. So she was enjoying some tea until the time came. Gasper was eating donuts at a donuts shop.
Asia and Xenovia were talking about this and that in front of a hamburger shop. Kiba was rummaging through the drugstore beside the dining floor. I see, since it seems like medicines and the like were copied as well, she was trying to find things to take.
Gufufufu. Somehow, it was just like I thought! This bookstore was perfectly reproduced just like the rest of the mall! I went to the ecchi book corner, and looked for ero-books by myself inside the empty store! It's here, it's here! Amaziiiiiiiiiing! I could read all these ero-books as much as I liked! So there were also nice battlefields like this! Ah, which should I look at! Was this the feeling of a treasure hunter who had found an amazing amount of gold and silver treasure? I could pick and choose as I like!
"Ise-kun~ What are you doing? Ara-ara, you're reading very dirty-looking books. It's the remaining time before the decisive battle, you know."
"A-Akeno-san! T-This is! I was just checking the extent to all the copied objects had been reproduced!"
That was a lame excuse even for me. But Akeno-san didn't seem angry, and just kept her sweet smile.
"Ufufu. I'm not particularly angry at you for this. I don't despise you for it either. Rather, I'm relieved at how Ise-kun this is."
Akeno-san is more tolerant about things like this than Buchou. Then, Akeno-san looked at the book I was reading with a serious expression.
"…I see, so Ise-kun likes this kind of thing…"
For some reason, her eyes really seemed serious… As expected, is the ecchi onee-san also very interested in ecchi books?
"A-Akeno-san?"
While I was troubled about her reaction, Akeno-san pointed at the actress photographed in the ero-book.
"Shall I wear something like this next time?"
The thing that Akeno-san was pointing at was, the cosplay costume for ecchi games that the actress wore! But, this was practically nude! The area covered by cloth is so small! You wouldn't be able to put on underwear either!
"S-Seriously!?"
I reflexively asked that. Is this for real!?
"Seriously. Ufufu. Since it's Ise-kun, it's special."
She replied with a smiling face! Amazing! Akeno-san will put on such an outfit! I had to seriously order this next time. I see, so ero-cosplay really existed…
"A-Akeno-san, what are you doing?"
"…I'm getting courage from Ise-kun."
Akeno-san had a painful voice. I was surprised at the sudden change.
But courage, huh. Now that I think of it, Buchou had also said that she was getting courage by grasping my hand during the meeting between the three great powers.
"…I need the courage to fight… Because I might have to use the other power that flows inside me this time, I'm scared. I hate it. That's why, I'm getting courage from Ise-kun."
Akeno-san… So she's resolved to use the Fallen Angel power that she hates.
"If you're fine with me, please fully get courage from me!"
I grasped the hand of Akeno-san as she embraced me and spoke while smiling. If Akeno-san could gather courage from someone like me, it was the best.
"When I bring out my power of light, will you watch, Ise-kun? If Ise-kun is watching, I will be able to use it."
"Y-Yes! If Akeno-san can display her power just by me watching, it's a small price to pay!"
"…I'm happy. If I'm together with Ise, surely… You belong to Rias, but even so I will always… by your side…"
Akeno-san seemed to say something in a low voice that I couldn't hear.
Akeno-san moved away from my back. But, her eyes were moist. Suddenly, Akeno-san brought her face close to mine this time. A-Akeno-san's lips were.
"…Ise-senpai, its almost time to gather."
When mine and Akeno-san's lips were just about to touch, Koneko-chan unexpectedly appeared!
"K-Koneko-chan! This is, umm!"
I tried to come up with an excuse while being flustered, but Koneko-chan just sighed with half-closed eyes.
"Ara ara, Koneko-chan. You saw us. Ufufu. Ise-kun, thank you. I'm already okay now."
Akeno-san returned to her usual pleasantly smiling face, and tried to leave this place. However.
"…Next time, for sure… with you…"
She left behind some kind of whisper. Her expression as she left seemed regretful at having to part.
When I looked at Koneko-chan, she seemed really down. Is she still perhaps thinking about Makoto still?
"Koneko-chan..."
"...Ise-senpai."
"Makoto, is going to be fine you know? He would want you to fight strongly for Buchou and the others."
"...Even though it was I who didn't do a thing in the end. He was in pain, now he wont wake up. If it wasn't for me and Nee-sama then he wouldn't of been..."
[Koneko-chan. Don't blame yourself for what happened.]
That voice! Looking around, I didn't see anyone, until Koneko-chan focused her eyes on something.
"Mako-kun..."
Makoto! I knew it! Eh? He's transparent? A ghost? He's not dead! What the hell is this...his spirit?
[Yup! It is I, the ghost of Hyoudou Makoto, speaking to you from beyond the grave! Spooky or what?]
"...You aren't dead."
Koneko-chan sweatdropped at the see-through Makoto.
[Geez, you try and be dramatic...no, I'm not going to let it get to me. Koneko-chan, I felt your pain, I heard your words when you spoke to the sleeping me. Don't ever blame yourself for anything that concerns me. I chose what happened. I would rather it be me who is asleep than you. Don't worry, I wont be asleep forever...but I might not be the same when I wake up...don't concern yourself with that.]
"…Mako-kun, I'm going to use my Nekomata power...I hate what Nee-sama became. But as things are now, I may not be able to be useful to everyone. That's why, I'll use it."
[That's good. I will be watching you know. If you lose control, I will stop you. Because, I will be with you in spirit. And don't worry about Kuroka. I've kicked her butt once before, I will do it again and again until she finally stops or becomes the person I can see her becoming.]
Koneko-chan goes close to the see-through Makoto and tries to grasp his hand, however her hand just went through the ghostly body. Koneko-chan made a sad face.
"...Wake up soon, ok? Because, I only just confessed...you don't leave as soon as a girl confesses...so wake up then..."
Koneko-chan's face turned bright red.
"...We can go on a date."
She just asked a ghost on a date! That's a new and interesting thing. When I giggled Koneko-chan punched me in the stomach! Damn it! My stomach! I bent over in pain. Makoto makes a sad expression.
[...I hope I can...I have to go in a minute...I can't hold on any longer...Koneko-chan...I love you...]
"...Mako-kun...I love you also."
They smiled at one another. An expression of love then...Makoto glared at me. What is he glaring at me for!?
[I heard what you said to me when I was sleeping. That I would be having sex dreams about all the loli's in the universe!? And to declare myself as the King of all loli's!? I am not a lolicon!]
Hehe, so he heard that huh. I thought it might wake him up. But when he said he wasn't a lolicon...Koneko-chan's eyes sharpened incredibly...ehehe...she doesn't like when he says things like that.
"...Mako-kun..."
[I-I was joking of course Koneko-chan! I am of course a lolicon! A huge mega super lolicon! I am your lolicon!]
She smirks bewitchingly...similar to Kuroka actually...family trait? But she's got him trained, hasn't she?
"...Damn straight."
[Tell everyone to do their best for me?]
We both nod at him, then he starts walking away while glowing heavenly lights. He turns around and waves at Koneko-chan.
[...Goodbye...Koneko-chan...]
The goodbye sounded...different to a normal one. What was that about? Koneko-chan noticed it, but didn't say anything except narrow her eyes in confusion. But the game will start soon. I will just have to do my best!
Serafall P.O.V
"So my cute Ma-tan? Who do you think will win?"
I asked the sleeping boy. Of course I didn't get an answer. But, I am sure he is watching also. I'm sure he can do things like that, as he is my cutest Queen and my cutest Queen wouldn't let a silly little coma stop him.
"So Ma-tan. Who's your money on? Rias-chan or Sona-chan? Hehe, even as a Maou, I can't favour one over the other, but I want my Sona-chan to win~ That's between us my cutest Queen. No doubt Sirzechs-chan and the others would tell me that I favour Sona-chan because she's my cutest sister. You would probably tell me off for that though, wouldn't you? Being so super Sona-chan and anti Rias-chan! So, open your eyes and yell at me so I can make it up to you by placing kiss after kiss all over your adorable face."
I stroked his small hand which is always linked with my own, except when I'm not near him. Its, something I want to do. Keep our hands together means we are connected physically, as well as emotionally. If I make physical contact at all times, then he will know that I'm right next to him, not leaving his side, ever. Then, I can be the first to greet him when he wakes up. Ooh, I am getting thirsty. It is about to start, so I will quickly get a drink then come back to watch it on Ma-tans hospital television!
"I will be right back my cutest Queen. Tell me if anything happens, ok my sexiest Queen? Hehe, you would be embarrassed about me saying that also. You embarrass to easy my cutest Queen."
I stand up and kiss the top of his head then leave the room. I go to a vending machine and get a normal bottle of water. Then I make my way back to Ma-tans private room...
"If you are lucky like the number seven, then you will be going straight to Heaven~ If you naughty and feel unwell, then you will be going straight to Hell~"
...That's Ma-tans voice! I dropped the water and rushed to his room! When I got there, I saw the best sight! Ma-tan sat up in his bed, looking at me...
"Hehehe, I kill mice~"
Huh? What's that about? Well whatever! I go over and try and hug him, but he pushes me away with a curious look. What's wrong with my cute Ma-tan all of a sudden?
"Ma-tan? What's wrong?"
"Ma...tan?"
He tilted his head to the side...doesn't he know who he is?
"Ma-tan, its me. You know me right...?"
"...Leviathan Maou. ...A target..."
His voice suddenly went dark when looking at me. No...he hasn't...
"Project HDF?"
"...Yes?"
No...he's...like back then. That son of a bitch has done something to Ma-tan!
"Who...are you?"
"I'm no one, less than nothing...serve Master. Sekiryuutei...was here...before. My Aniki...Aneki was here also...I remember. In house, run through field, the flowers...you, are Serafall Leviathan, formally Sitri. I...why am I here? I don't understand. Where am I!?"
"Shhhh, calm down. It is alright. Look, at the screen."
He looks at the television and smiles like a child.
"Aniki~ Aniki~ Whats he doing Serafall Leviathan, formally Sitri?"
"Y-You can call me Serafall. And he is about to do a little fighting game. Would you like to watch that?"
"...Fighting is not a game. ...Fighting hurts and kills people. ...I would know it. I am a monster after all. I kill people all the time for Master. As Master is Master and I must serve Master."
So it really is like back then...poor child has had enough of this crap.
"Well, this is a fighting game the Devils have. You have heard of, Rating Games, yes?"
"...Oh, Rating Games. Aniki is in a Rating Game~ With Asia Argento? She's a good girl Asia Argento is. Pure Twilight Healing girl."
"Yes, she's a very good girl, isn't she?"
He nods and looks at the screen again. Then he looks at me.
"...Serafall..."
"Yes...Ma-tan?"
"I don't want to be here. I want to go back to where I was before. Its safe inside, out here is scary. Lots of people hurt me out here. I want to go back inside. Let the other one come out instead."
"So...you know about the other Ma-tan then?"
He nods and rubs his chest.
"Master has done something Serafall. I, don't know what...but the one you know is locked inside here and is calling "Sera-tan! Sera-tan! Save me! Save me!" But this Sera-tan can't hear him now."
Ma-tan is calling for me, and I can't hear it at all.
"That's me."
"Oh...heheheh, I kill mice~ I kill mice~ I kill mice~"
He started banging his hands together. This Ma-tan is the one driven insane by Akihiko. Only sometimes does he have lucid thoughts. Most times, he's like this.
"I will bring you back Ma-tan, don't worry."
"Has he gone somewhere far pretty girl?"
I shake my head with a fake smile at the crazy boy. He doesn't even remember what we just talked about. Akihiko really did damage this child more than anyone could know.
"No, he's just away at the moment. Don't worry your cute head about it."
He tilts his head at me as I place his glasses on. He looks around and smiles at me.
"Would you like to kill some mice with me? They have come into my cage and I don't want them to crawl over me when I am asleep."
"Ok, I will help you kill some mice."
"Ooh~ Thank you~ I don't like it when they crawl on me when I'm trying to sleep."
"Neither would I. I wouldn't like that at all."
"I only get 2 hours sleep you know? I don't want mice keeping me awake. Need to sleep before Master comes back."
I nod my head sadly. That's the reality this boy had to go through.
"I know. Lets get these mice so you can sleep."
"Lets kill mice~ Lets kill mice~ Lets kill mice~ Before Master comes back, then more experiments."
I stroke his head, instead of pulling away, he wraps his arms around my neck. A hug from the crazy Ma-tan. Hehe, it is almost like hugging my Ma-tan. I'm sorry Ma-tan. I wasn't there for you before, but I am here for you now. I will bring you back. Hey, its what I do after all, isn't it my cutest Queen? You get lost, and I find you again.
AN; And, that's the end of that chapter. Makoto is awake, well a certain part of him anyway and Chelia's power has been revealed, well one of anyway. Basically, she isn't almighty so she does run out of power eventually and she can't keep herself in a Negating Mode at all times however she is currently stronger than all the current Gremory group put together, even if Ise went Balance Breaker on her, she would still kick his ass.
The Rating Game is next chapter, although I haven't decided to do it as one big chapter or spilt it into two different chapters, but I am leaning towards two chapters.
A review pointed out that I haven't even considered the Sitri girls as apart of either harem! Ugh, I can be silly sometimes. They are all cute girls, yet I haven't considered it until someone pointed it out to me. So, should either guy get anyone from the Sitri group? I will let you all decide. As for Dulio or Slash Dog being gender bent? I had considered it, but I wouldn't know which to put with which guy. Anyway long winded AN but necessary, thanks for reading!
Issei; Rias, Akeno, Xenovia, Tsubasa, Ile, Nel, Aika, Yasaka, Bennia, Kiyome, Le Fay, Seekvaira, Isabela, Katarea, Elmenhilde, Mira, Karlamine, Xuelan, Katase, Murayama.
Makoto; Serafall, Koneko, Sona, Asia, Ravel, Gabriel, Kunou, Ophis, Irina, Rossweisse, Raynare, Yumi (fem Kiba) Gasper (fem) Vali (fem) Cao Cao (fem), Chelia, Valerie, Jeanne, Griselda, Kuroka.