A Devil's Flock

by Kerlongsj Evert Orlejov

Request fic for whitetigerwolf. Minato Sahashi was taken in by Serafall Leviathan as a young boy. After a decade, he went back into the human realm to fulfill a dream. Little did he know that he would be dragged into a game of Aliens and Ashikabi's. Well, at least, he could turn this Flock of him into a Peerage. For him, this could be the chance to prove himself as a young Devil.

7. a Devil has a Match

Hello everyone. How are you all doing? I hope you're well. Summer has now officially arrived and I have been to Graspop by the time that this chapter is over.

This will easily break to the 100K mark of my fic and this is the first one that has done so in a long while. Really happy about that.

Since the 7th of March, I remember that day. I was in Turkey and sick as a dog with food poisoning. That was no joke.

---

Graspop was a fuckton of more fun. I have enjoyed the time with my friends there and met a few new people.

The sun was beating down but I learned a few more new groups at Graspop. Like Bloodywood. Indian metal band. Fuck, they were good.

Got a few signatures from them. Not only from them but also from Epica, Eluveitie, Heidevolk, and Testament.

Those guys really rock there.

I have seen such a nice number of groups there and I have enjoyed myself.

Those four days were a good party, buying a lot of stuff, like new patches, and my other ideas so for me, it was a good holiday.

Ghost was awesome but Guns N' Roses was too damn long to really enjoy. Three hours and my head began to kill me. I paid for the early rise that day.

Vanaheim is something new but they should do something about their bass. Pity for Saltatio Mortis.

Airbourne, I missed it as I watched Finntroll. Those guys were also a nice party. Met up with a few friends.

Really enjoyed Amon Amarth. Disturbed, Gojira and Machine Head were also picked along but unlike the big one, Sabaton, last year. I missed them.

I didn't have any big ones that I really wanted to see on the main stage. With 30 degrees Celsius, that was simple to explain.

Also picked up Vended. Looks like blood runs thicker than water. The Raven Age has a son from Steve Harris (Iron Maiden).

Vended has two sons from Slipknot.

I missed Skindred due to a fucking headache. I have forgotten who I got a signature from. I believe Testament at that point.

Korpiklaani came through and I didn't want to miss them. Too bad that Parkway Drive played. Some of you guys might like the song. Prey.

I also got on Slipknot. But from far away and I filled my stomach.

Sunday, I had rain so I stayed in my tent. Hellmut Loti, for those wondering, is a Belgian Singer. The guy was there for a goof. A goof that got him an audience of 10K people.

But I had signatures for Bloodywood to get. I told them. Didn't understand one word you said but fuck me, sideways. It sounded good.

And I got a piece of Three Days Grace.

While not such a great lineup for me personally, it was still one awesome five days. I was there on Wednesday and stayed till Monday.

---

Now for the numbers.

491 followers. That is an increase of 42. I really appreciate all the support that I have gotten. I hope that I can get to 500 before the next one.

437 favorites which is an increase of 50 since the last one. That is a bit better.

66 reviews. 6 more and that is a bit lower than I had hoped/thought I would have.

But there are no guest reviews and some have shut it down so they don't want me to reply hence why we are not going to do that.

I'll have done a part before Graspop and a part after that festival. That is also on my mind. And I did something really stupid and if this is written out, it means that the laptop that I took along for Graspop has survived the trip.

I have never done that but given the relatively weak line-up, the fact that I was there, the evening before, and that I was in the mood of why not, I have written parts on the festival. That'd be a first. And I don't think a last.

If this is written, I would have written until the battery died.

And on Sunday, after three days of damn hot weather, it started to rain. It does mean that I have stayed cooped up in my dry, comfortable tent.

There could have been a few groups that I wanted to see but the biggest thing is that after four days of taking this laptop along, I finally have a reason for using it.

Started on 05/06/2023

Ended on 21/07/2023

---

If there was one thing that Minato would admit, it was the fact that he could think on his feet.

He also appreciated that others could do the same.

Jonas had called over his Fallen Angels to make sure they would be watching over them. To prevent attacks from either Peerage, they were wearing very signals. Bright lights on their backs sent out a clear signal.

He did hope that Jonas would use his head faster next time.

Then again, the Soldier wasn't used to Rating Games so it was right on time to come up with ideas.

Minato heard from Kalawarner that Jonas had given them flare guns. Why he had them laying in his truck, the Ashikabi would never ask.

But the mercenary would use them to signal the start and end of the match. When he found that the match could end, he would fire that one.

His Fallen Angels would do the same if they deemed it necessary to end the match.

They were carrying small headsets and they'd use that to communicate.

Mittelt was the one who would watch over Rias while Kalawarner was the one assigned to Minato's side of things.

Plus, he also requested them to hold back away from the most obvious lines of fire. Something that Kalawarner relayed to Jonas.

The thumbs-ups were pretty clear on what Jonas thought of it.

Then it came time for strategies and Minato sent the blue-haired beauty on her way. With a salute, she left the group, far enough from them.

The Ashikabi gathered his Peerage around him and began to explain the roles.

"As befitting like a true Rating Game, we have thirty minutes of preparation. We are going to make the most of it. Luckily, we have these." In his hands, he held small orbs that lit up and showed their colors.

"These are communicators. Rias-sama will have the same one. This way, we can communicate with each other over the field. All of you, take one and plug them in your ears."

It was similar to wearing an earpiece but it did still feel weird. Kusano needed some help from Minato to get the piece right in her ear.

When all were settled in, Minato began to explain.

"There are three combat zones. Home, defense, and offense. The defense will be largely done by you, Akitsu. I want you to make traps closer to our front. Riser-sama will not show Rias-sama an easy time so the harsher we are now, the easier it'll be for her to fight against him."

Akitsu nodded and kissed her Ashikabi on the lips. They would use all advantages they had and Noritos were just one way for them to receive the necessary power boost.

The Yuki-Ona left with a spring in her step while Minato stayed behind with the remaining Sekirei.

"Home will be our base so to speak. That role will be done by Kazehana, Kuu-chan, and Matsu-san. I'd like to keep you here, Kazehana, as my [Queen] and my strongest Piece. You'll be watching over from the sidelines in the back here."

The Wind Flower nodded and it was her turn to get kissed.

"Kuu-chan, you and Matsu-san aren't fighters. I'd like to be easy on this one and fight in case that is needed. Matsu-san, if you have ideas about my strategy, I'd like to speak up."

The two nodded as Minato turned to his remaining Flock.

"Musubi-chan, Yume-san, I'd like you two to take Haihane and Benitsubasa along. You'll be the tip of my spear to speak."

He ignored the whistles from the older members as the reference flew over the heads of Musubi, Haihane, and Kusano.

"Hikari-san, Hibiki-san, you two are going to take a flanking route. Most likely, Rias-sama will have sent out her own Pieces like that. That way, we can meet them. Don't fly but use the terrain to traverse. Akeno can easily shoot you two out of the sky."

"If I might make a suggestion, Mina-tan." Minato nodded to Matsu as she spoke.

"Only send out Musubi and Yume out in the front. Let Benitsubasa and Haihane take the opposite side flank out. If our group meets the fighters of Rias-sama, that would still make it better that one meets their [Queen] instead of their own. Plus, as we are out in the open, I can use satellite images to pinpoint our location. It'll be cleaner and easier. What I suggest is that you [Pawns] remain stealthy and sneak to Rias-sama. Unless you discover her [Knight], I'd suggest you remain quiet."

The Sekirei of Wisdom took a deep breath.

"Rias-sama doesn't have as many Pieces as we do. Count out Asia-chan, that leaves her with four offensive players. Mina-tan, how many Pieces does her opponent have?"

Minato scratched his cheek as he made a regretful sigh.

"Riser-sama has a full set of 15 pieces. He has an even bigger number advantage than I have." The Sekirei looked a bit more surprised by that part as they heard that.

"How did he get that many already? You are still falling behind with 10, hun. Despite your quickly growing number of Sekirei." Kazehana watched how her Ashikabi spoke.

"One could argue that I got lucky that I am an Ashikabi as we are two things at the same time. I'm an Ashikabi and a [King]. You are Sekirei and [Peerage] members. But I wasn't always like that. I had to earn my place."

When he revealed that truth, the girls waited.

"Riser-sama was born a High-Class Devil and as soon he was old enough, he filled his Peerage with girls. While that isn't uncommon, and he does treat them a tad better than some, it doesn't relegate the fact that he has taken his Peerage for one reason."

Minato answered her question but that wasn't enough for Hikari.

"What do you mean by that, Ashikabi-kun?"

"Like my own Peerage, his are all women. But I took you as Sekirei, he took them as women. Those who get it, understand. Those who don't, well, you don't have to know it."

The reference flew over Kusano's head while even Musubi got the message of how Riser worked over his Peerage.

"You are saying that he?" Hibiki asked, with a hint of disgust and revulsion.

"Yes." Minato solemnly answered. He looked over at the calm twin who was trying to calculate that out.

"I'm sorry if we are wasting time, Ashikabi-kun."

Minato waved his hand as if it was not to worry.

"We have our plan, we can't move until the flare goes up. And I rather put your mind at ease." Hibiki nodded a silent thank you.

"I have two questions. One. Why can he then marry Rias? Two. Why did you never make such a move?"

Minato again sighed at that question.

"It's a marriage between two High-Class Devils, no matter how stupid that word might sound. It's not cheating as it's his Peerage. While polygamy isn't exactly uncommon, there are limits to that. Don't ask me how it works. I am not born one. As for your second question. While I am a High-Class Devil, I was born a human with human morals. I don't believe in that."

His head turned to his Sekirei.

"I have taken you in for your powers and you are reacting to me. Is that enough information?" Minato asked as he looked over at Kazehana. Something stirred in him but he would wait until that was done.

"For now, yes." Then they looked up to see an orange flame, lighting up the sky. It was clear the game was on now.

"That's it, girls. Traverse through the land, keep low and in contact with each other. One question for my four [Pawns]. If I can promote you, how much do you think you could handle?"

Hikari and Hibiki shared a look with each other until they turned to their Ashikabi.

"We should be good till [Rook]. When do you promote us?"

"When you the base of Rias-sama. Same for you two. How much do you two think you can handle?" Benitsubasa bristled on that reply but she was short on replying.

"[Bishop.]"

Minato cursed in his mind.

"That'd be useless in your case. That means, [Knight]. What about you, Haihane?"

The claw user was, uncharacteristically of her, a bit more motivated for the fight.

"I should be good to be a [Knight] as well." Minato smiled at her.

"Reign your partner in, will ya? But before you leave."

Yume got the first kiss, by virtue of being the fastest. She moaned in the kiss when she felt her power surge. Her Piece responded to Minato's power.

The next one was Musubi. She was a bit more relaxed on it but there was also the power that she gave when she pressed on Minato's neck. It felt nice as she warmed up.

"Go kick butt, you two." The two [Rooks] nodded and ran off to the fight. They could make noise, stealth wasn't needed.

"Now, as for you two. Hikari, Hibiki." The twins followed up with that.

Hikari went first, slipping her tongue inside while feeling the lightning running through her veins. It was enjoyable and warm. It made her feel wanted.

Hibiki was the opposite. Gentle, chaste, and short. But the effect was the same.

"Keep your head down and keep in contact. Good luck." With that said, the Thunder Twins got out and went through the woods.

They were fast but they knew exactly how to get through.

Benitsubasa saw it as nothing more than a reminder of how she missed Natsuo. The kiss was quick, harsh and she strutted off already. Haihane was a lot more welcome to it, her body molded with Minato as she felt more power going through her.

"Good luck you two," Minato shouted off to them.

It wasn't before long that he heard Yume and Musubi through the communicators.

[We just passed by Akitsu-chan. She has made a wonderful trap. You can be proud of her.]

Turning to his remaining [Pawn] and [Bishop], he opened his arms.

"You don't have to ask. You can have your own kisses as well."

Kusano's kiss was the same as he normally got. A chaste kiss from an eight-year-old girl who could feel her powers calming down. With not that many eyes on her, Minato got an idea.

"Kuu-chan. You can communicate with the plants, right?"

The Green Girl had a cheerful nod as an answer and a "Uh-huh." as a partner.

"Well, then ask the plants what is coming our way. We might need your help as well, Matsu. But we can use all the help we can get."

Kusano immediately got to work, checking out the plants and sending out signals for extra information.

Matsu pouted when Minato told Kusano about her extra task but when she felt her body, surge with the kiss, plus a nice squeeze on her ass which caused her to moan in the kiss.

He whispered in her ear.

"Don't get jealous of an eight-year-old, you'll have enough competition." Matsu moaned further in that kiss. With that done, Minato sat back.

He had trust in his Sekirei and their capabilities. Whether he liked to admit it or not, the odds were seriously in his favor.

He had higher numbers, he knew Rias well and he could plan ahead for that.

This wasn't looking good for Rias. And the outcome of this match could prove to be serious trouble for Rias and her Peerage.

Scene skip. At Rias base

Rias Gremory had expected something as preparation. How kind of her surrogate older brother to help her out with this? It could also get the jitters out of Issei and Asia for something of a fight.

And if she was honest, this match could help out herself, and her other Pieces.

"Okay, listen up everyone. As you might know, this is just a Mock Rating Game. I expect all of you to fight your hardest!"

"Yes, Buchou!" The five shouted.

"We don't have much time to prepare. For starters, I am going to give you these." Her hand opened and it showed the glowing orbs in them, shining like jewels.

"Buchou, what are those?" Asia's green eyes lit up in curiosity.

"Those are communicators, Asia. With these, we can communicate over longer lines. All of you, take one."

It took Issei some issues to get one in but when it was good, it was like he could hear Rias talk in his head.

"Now, we have thirty minutes to prepare. Let's make the most of it." When they heard the flapping of wings, they saw Mittelt watching them.

The petite blonde just smirked and raised her hands.

"I am here on behalf of Jonas, Red. He is letting up a flare to start the beginning of the game. He assigned me to watch over your end. I'm in contact with him, using this little thing. Good luck, you are going to need it."

With her wings opening, Mittelt flew out of the danger zone.

"Before we were interrupted. We don't have the luxury of numbers against Riser or against Minato-niichan. Therefore, we are going to play offensive. Koneko, Kiba, Akeno. I want you to place traps. While I imagine that Minato-niichan has started training his Devils or Sekirei as he calls them, I doubt they'll be as well versed in traps as you are."

Rias halted for a second.

"Go out, I'll be telling more over the comms. It's a great way to test them out." The [Queen], [Rook], and [Knight] nodded to their master and bowed to her.

"You think that he'll be that big of a fighter, Buchou?" Issei asked with apprehension more than present. During the last few days, the Red Dragon Emperor had developed a healthy amount of respect for Minato.

"Minato-niichan, Issei, is a person that I grew up with. One that your senior Devils grew up with. He is a strong person and a smart guy. He does know me pretty well. That is a disadvantage. Riser will also have that upper hand. What I hadn't expected was him to have that many Pieces so quickly gathered."

Both Asia and Issei got really quiet from that revelation.

"Eh, Buchou. I am afraid that I don't follow that. Could you give a bit more of an explanation? You just said this guy grew up with you." Issei hadn't heard much about it.

"I wasn't wrong, Issei. Minato-niichan was a Human that Serafall-sama took in. She's Sona's older sister. Unlike myself or Sona, Minato-niichan got promoted to High-Class Devil last year. If my understanding is correct, he got nearly ten Pieces in just the span of three weeks."

Issei's brain caught on to several things.

One was the fact that Minato grew up with Sona and Rias as children, that he was human, and that became Harem King in a few weeks.

"What a guy! What an example to follow!" Issei had dramatic tears, streaming down his face. Rias and Asia sweatdropped from that display but if Issei would follow his example, that would be better than Riser.

While Issei was away dreaming and praising Minato, Rias sighed and talked over the comms.

"Minato-niichan knows us and Asia and Issei. While he does have those Sekirei, I doubt we know them as well as he knows us. With our limited numbers, as mentioned, we can't have a big fight. Therefore, Koneko, as soon we are permitted, you'll travel with Issei to Minato. The trees should give you cover to reach his base."

[What do we do, Buchou, should we discover opposition?]

"Fight, don't let anything stand in your way."

She addressed her other Pieces.

"Asia is going to stay with me. It'll be better for us in case we get compromised. Akeno, you are going to keep overwatch. Get up high but remain out of range for attacks."

[Ara, ara. Yes, Buchou.]

"Kiba, I want you to take another route. Minato-niichan will send others our way and we can use that to cut him off."

[Understood, Buchou.]

Issei snapped back into reality. "Buchou. When we defeated those others, we push through to Minato, right?"

The heiress nodded at the question of her adorable [Pawn]

"Correct. Knowing him, he'll have left behind some Pieces to protect him. We don't have the advantage in numbers. Therefore, we'll take the fight to him. Push through and don't stop."

Rias then saw the flare lighting up the sky.

"You got your orders. Now, make me proud." Puffing his chest, Issei stood up proudly.

"I'll do so, Buchou!" He ran off while the heiress watched him leave.

Koneko would wait and they'd traverse.

Outwardly, she was confident and ready for the fight.

But in the core of her body, she realized one uncomfortable and inconvenient truth.

This fight wouldn't be easily won. If won at all.

Scene skip

Yume and Musubi traveled through the forest, together but fast. There were no paths to really use and since flight was forbidden, they used the trees as paths. It was easy enough to orientate themselves and jumping over nature's wonders was something they had long grown used to.

The sounds of the forest weren't as alien to them as they had thought or believed.

If they weren't fighting Rias in this game, they would be able to enjoy the nature around them.

But alas, that was not the case of happening as Minato's guess was correct. Rias had sent forth Koneko and Issei who had taken the same route.

"Looks like we can't exactly go by you." Koneko cracked her knuckles while Yume couldn't keep the regretful sigh in.

"Unfortunately not, Koneko." The older [Rook] looked her over while the first-year was ready.

"Issei-senpai. Take care of Musubi-san. I'll be fighting Yume-san."

Musubi nodded, eagerly for a fight.

"Yes! I, Musubi, Sekirei from Minato Sahashi, accept your fight."

Issei summoned his [Sacred Gear]. It shouted the first [Boost!]

"In that case, Issei Hyoudou, [Pawn] from Rias Gremory accepts your fight."

His training paid off dividends as he had to jump out of the way. The brunette had taken to the sky and was ready to smash down.

The only thing he could do was jump back from the impact.

'Did she forget we don't have to go overboard?' Issei mentally complained as he had to avoid the several strikes from Musubi who was now eager for a real match.

The moves weren't elegant, refined, or well-performed but they kept Issei out of harm's way.

Koneko had also taken to the fight and the strikes that came through from her were all blocked by Yume.

The Sekirei of Fate could have taken to her light beams or maybe some sword experience.

The words of her Ashikabi had been ringing in her head.

'This is practice. Not a real match. it is meant to test out our fighters.'

So that was why she allowed Koneko to get close and use her physical power on her. The little girl was switching up her attacks from just fists

Against one like Musubi or Benitsubasa, she could hold out in those matches. But against one like Yume, a woman who knew her exact limits and had done this far longer than her.

Koneko knew that Yume wasn't going overboard on her. When her left hook was grabbed, the Sekirei threw away the first-year.

Smashing into the trees, Koneko could feel her body taking several hits. She could thank the sturdiness that the [Rook] Piece had brought her. It could have been much more serious.

"Koneko-chan!" Issei's attention was turned away from Musubi to worry about his squad mate.

"Pay attention!" He paid dearly for his rookie mistake and only the most dire of his reflexes could make him bring up his arms to block the fist from Musubi. He could feel the blow within the gauntlet and the pain that it brought him.

Just like Koneko, he was smacked into the trees.

There was more than just fighting. It was being able to be in combat.

Issei might have cursed Jonas and Minato for being so hard on him.

But he realized when he crawled back from the trees that there was a reason why they were so harsh on him. Why they kept breaking his limits, body, and spirit. It was all to make sure that he was able to take what was to come.

Now, Issei was getting back and he could see how Musubi and Yume were waiting for their opponents to come back.

'If this what Riser will bring, it'll be really tough.'

"Hope you are not done yet, Issei-san." The [Rook] had a hint of worry on her face as she watched the [Pawn] groan and moan while he tried to get back out of the hole that he was buried in.

"No, I'm good. Just a second."

His hands found that the wood had an extra cut in them.

"Do not worry. I'm not done yet."

[Boost!]

Issei could feel a power-up going through while he climbed out of it. His breathing evened out and his body was surging with power.

[Boost!]

Musubi stood ready for the next attack but Yume turned back to Koneko. The cuts and scraps on Koneko were visible as well.

"You are strong, Yume-san." The younger [Rook] had newfound interest in her foe but Yume was more than just a bit worried about Koneko.

[Boost!]

One more time, Issei let his gauntlet ring and then he found his power had enough.

"I have been trying to hold back, Koneko. We don't need serious injuries."

If it surprised Koneko that Yume had been holding back, she didn't let it see.

"No, we don't need them indeed."

[Release!]

The secret technique that Issei had hoped for, wouldn't come to pass here. That would be pushing his limits now.

He had to use this power to actually fight.

But he felt the power from the [Boosted Gear] flow through his body.

This time, it was his turn. Musubi found herself forced back when she felt a serious kick in her face. She hadn't guessed that Issei could move like that.

But that was to be expected if she thought about it.

It actually dazed her for a few seconds until she felt her body, getting up from the hit. Issei wasn't going to let up though.

His next foot ended up at Musubi's forearm and like a soccer, he tried to kick it away. Yet, the woman remained as steadfast as before. She grabbed the leg of Issei and like a ragdoll, smashed him through the trees.

Issei got again a few heavy hits until Musubi breathed in.

Koneko and Yume felt the same energy from Musubi. She went right after Issei. The fact that the chest was swayed by the move was enough to deter the smashing punch coming right at Issei. This time, there was no stopping the heavy fist from being lodged into his stomach.

Koneko turned back to Yume who was ready for another attack. The fists of Koneko came through, harsh and fast but it appeared clear that Yume had no issue of keeping up the attacks.

When a punch came back through too harshly, Yume forced Koneko's hand behind her back. Despite the struggle, Koneko was grabbed and the lock came through.

Issei had punched Musubi back but staggered from the hits that he had received. The Dragon was the one struggling on his feet, not the [Rook]

Before the fight could continue, a whistle rang through. Standing on the trees, was Kalawarner. The blue-haired beauty had stopped the fight.

"Enough. As it was a Mock Game, this match is now over. Yume-san, Musubi-san. You can continue. Toujou-san, Hyoudou-san, you are retired so to speak. It's clear who has won this."

The [Pawn] dropped to the floor while tears of frustration ran down his face. Koneko was also dropped and just like Issei, she was incredibly frustrated with how the fight ended.

Grabbing the walkie-talkie, that she received from Jonas, she talked into it.

[Jonasavo-sama, Hyoudou-san, and Toujou-san have lost their match. I told Yume-san and Musubi-san they can continue their road.

What are my orders?]

The mercenary took only a second to reply.

[If you got any first aid, provide that to them. If they need it. After that. Take them to the cottage.]

"Roger." She jumped down and speaking a few spells, Kalawarner began to patch up Issei who lay on the floor.

"You have permission from Jonasavo-sama to continue your mission. I suggest you won't waste time."

The two [Rooks] nodded to each other and continued their path. Before she left though, Yume was kind enough to carry Koneko to Kalawarner. And with that done, they continued their path.

Scene skip

The hand of Jonas left the headset and he cursed inwardly.

Rias had lost two of her five members. That meant that she had lost 40% of her force. That would be enough to be considered combat ineffective.

This wasn't boding well for the real Rating Game. With how things were going now, this would prove to be detrimental.

It was like Raynare could read the mood of her boyfriend.

"Not good, right?"

The mercenary shook his head and in his eyes, she could read how worried he was.

"Not good at all, Raynare, not good at all."

Scene skip

When the four [Pawns] heard from their master how the match between Yume, Musubi and Koneko, and Issei, there was something of a relief that came flooding through. With two of the most foes out of the way, they only had to worry about Kiba and Akeno.

The two teams kept crawling through. At least, that was what Haihane and Benitsubasa did as they took the order from Minato literally.

The Thunder Twins did keep a lower profile but they walked lower and slower to prevent detection.

As their Ashikabi had suggested, one of the two teams encountered Kiba.

"There is no use in hiding. Why don't you come out?"

Cursing and moaning was what Kiba heard and he was polite enough to filter that out as he saw Haihane and Benitsubasa crawling out of their hiding spots.

"Damn it, Haihane. It was your fault that we were caught."

"Can I help it you are so slow. It's weird though. With your chest."

"Is that a way to talk to your squad mate?"

"It's the truth. Flat chest."

"Eh-hm." A polite cough caught off their bickering and Kiba pulled out a sword.

"Are we going to stand around all day or are we going to fight?"

Benitsubasa answered his request by jumping up into the sky. Unluckily for her, she had a lot to learn about Devils and their Pieces.

Haihane had a cooler head and before she would join in the fight, she contacted Minato.

[Minato. Your prediction ran through. We encountered Kiba. I don't think we'll get out of this fight.]

From his spot, Minato raised his hand to his earpiece.

[I expected as much. Give him hell, girls. Thanks for the heads-up, Haihane. Remind me to thank you later.]

A small blush washed over her face as she realized how much fun that reward was going to be. That would be fair compensation as this fight wasn't going to be fun.

Outstretching her claws, Haihane knew she had a better chance against Kiba but the best they could hope for was to delay and damage him as much as they could and let her sister-wives take care of him when this was over.

Scene skip

Minato relayed the information to the Thunder Twins that through the rules of engagement, their restrictions were gone.

They could make a beeline to Rias and her home turf. In his guess, they would encounter Akeno but that was within calculations.

His lovely Twins were the perfect counter to Akeno and her magic.

"Good news, Minato?"

Turning to Matsu, it was time to put his brainiac to work.

"Matsu, use your satellites if the news I have received is true. I'd like you to do the same, Kuu-chan." Both Sekirei got to work on their own specialty.

Matsu began to look over the fight that Minato had foreseen. As foretold, she could see how Yume and Musubi were going forwards. Their moves were aligned with the Thunder Twins while Benitsubasa and Haihane were fighting Kiba.

Kusano saw the same through the trees and when she nodded to Minato, the Ashikabi made a painful face.

"Something wrong, Ashikabi-kun?" Matsu wondered what Minato had to worry about.

"On the one hand, I'm glad that the plan is working out, but on the other hand, this doesn't bode well for Rias-sama and her upcoming Rating Game. If we already can take her out like this, and remember, we are playing nice, her chances of winning that Game are slim."

The Ashikabi had to put his brain to work on what to do when Rias lost the Real Rating Game. And he would have to employ some guys like Jonas to help him out.

"If she loses, she has to marry that guy, right?"

The solemn nod made them gulp. It would be akin to being forcefully winged to an Ashikabi they didn't want.

A fate, second in place, to being scrapped. ]

"Yep, and that isn't something that a lot of us look forward to."

With that said, they began to realize how fragile it all was.

The Sekirei had to play this hard, to prepare Rias but if this was any indication, it wasn't good.

Scene skip

The Thunder Twins had run through the forest and had kept in touch with Yume and Musubi. Communication went a long way in this game.

[You are keeping up with us. How do things look?]

Hikari looked as if she could see Yume through the trees.

[We're fine, Yume-san. Do you see anything?]

Before they could continue to ask, they heard something from Matsu.

[I see movement up ahead. That has to be Akeno-san.]

[Hikari, Hibiki. Your powers are a much better match for Akeno. We stick to the plan. If you are close enough, you can be promoted. That'd be fair on the rules of engagement. Matsu, where is she?]

Minato was hoping his plan would work.

[Right above Musubi-tan and Yume-tan. Clockwise, ten o'clock from Hikari and Hibiki. She is ready for an airstrike!]

[Girls, promotion to [Rook] is accepted. Get to the skies. Do not, I repeat, do not allow Akeno to attack the [Rooks]!]

The Thunder Twins nodded and they had permission from Minato.

"Promotion [Rook]!" The chant came and they could feel their Piece got stronger in their bodies. When up to the skies, the flight was easy enough. Akeno had nearly finished her chant when she felt danger coming in.

"Now, that was rude to interrupt a lady." Her eyes flickered dangerously while the two Promoted [Pawns] shrugged.

"We apologize, Akeno-san, but we have orders of our own." Hibiki simply admitted while the three raven-haired beauties sighed. From the tree tops, Mittelt was watching them fight.

If she wasn't so damn sure they were Devils, they could pass for Fallen Angels. They looked way too similar to Raynare.

She contacted Jonas through her own means.

[Jonas, the Twins are fighting Akeno.] Lightning was shot and returned as different sorts of magic followed on the fray.

[From what I can see, the two [Rooks] are making their way to Rias. So far, no casualties.]

The voice of Jonas had one edge that none of them had heard before.

[Figures the fight. Mittelt, keep watch over them. When one goes down, let me know.]

Then he switched to Kalawarner.

[Kala, how are you doing?]

[Just dropped off Hyoudou-san and Toujou-san. Orders?]

[Fly to Kiba and where he is. We'll see from there.]

Mittelt hadn't paid attention to the remaining words as Akeno was shooting all her magic at them while the Twins just scattered and used their own power against her.

While normally incapable to do anything when they weren't together, their Evil Piece had made that a minor detail.

Akeno could barely keep up with them as they switched their positions and fired from the side. It didn't matter how hard you could hit, it wasn't worth a damn if you couldn't hit your target.

The Thunder Twins were far more nimble than Akeno was and they didn't worry about friendly fire. You didn't need to worry if you were practically thinking with the same head for most of your life.

For them, it was as natural as breathing. When Akeno used different spells to hit them, it was merely avoided.

"You girls seem to be having a lot of fun. Maybe a bit too much." The eyes of Akeno had darkened as she was trying her hardest to fight back.

Hikari was more aggressive and pushed closer, relying on her sister to back her up.

Engulfing her fist with lighting, it was like the gap between her and Akeno didn't exist. What she hadn't expected was that Akeno grabbed the fist and twisted it back.

The harsh blow knocked her back a few feet while she shook her head, hoping the fuzziness would go away.

"It appears you forgot that I'm a [Queen]. And Kazehana-san was right. I have to use all my attributes."

"Good thing you came up with that now. Sis was trying to be kind."

The voice of Hikari was enough to make Akeno feel dread.

Did they? Oh, no. They did, didn't they? They were trying to hold back to fully test her.

Not that she'd allow that to happen.

Hibiki was about to curse out her sister as it was her turn to be flown back. The fist that came through from Akeno was blocked with the cross of her arms. Her forearms felt like a giant press had come through on them and she was damn sure she could feel blood, seeping down.

Luckily though, Hikari made good on that by firing her own lighting.

The gasp from Akeno shouldn't be that sensual from being hit by electricity but they broke off the attack and allowed Hibiki to fall back from it.

Akeno's eyes flickered between the twins who were more than ready to take her on.

"You forget that we're Promoted. And Akeno-san, we have just begun."

Their powers weren't longer limited to what MBI did but also to what they could do themselves as Devils. Combining their lightning, their chant was much shorter than Akeno but she could only fling herself to the side as again lighting came through.

This wasn't looking good at all.

Scene skip

Kiba had never thought that his high speed would be so beneficial. Benitsubasa's attacks were rough and harsh but she wasn't used to a being whose primary mode was to hit and run.

Haihane had better luck, keeping up with him as the focus was on the pinkette. Unfortunately for her, Benitsubasa had never learned to hold back on attacks which often resulted in Haihane being in the blast radius of the attack.

It was something that Kiba learned to avoid but Haihane wasn't so lucky.

"Damn it, washboard. Keep me in mind."

"Shut it, shut in. I'm trying to land a hit on him."

"Can you do that without me getting caught in?"

Kiba had fallen back and it came down to Haihane's reflexes to avoid the attack from actually hitting her.

The two had been bickering and while he did try to get closer, it proved that fighting was in their nature.

Now, if they could do something about their coordination, that would be much appreciated.

Or not, depending on his view.

He got closer, right at her head but found that blocking swords came easy enough with the claws.

"You really know me well, don't you?" The Sekirei couldn't help but blush from the compliment. Normally, she didn't get so worked up.

It must have been that Evil Piece that got her so worked up.

Mittelt was watching the scene with a certain weariness as she found the fight to be shameful. Kiba wasn't even trying and he was getting more damage in.

It proved to be the end when Benitsubasa came crashing through like a bull in a porcelain shop and he avoided the knockout that took care of Haihane.

For once, the [Knight] didn't even think of hesitating and knocked out Benitsubasa with the handle of his sword.

From the tree tops, and out of the corner of his eyes, a black feather spread as Mittelt landed on the floor.

"Nice work, blondie. Just give me a second." The Fallen Angel called in Jonas.

[Jonas, Kiba managed to knock out the two [Pawns] of Sahashi. Orders?] She was learning the proper conduct.

[Let him pass, get them to the cottage. And let Minato know, will ya? Thanks.]

Mittelt leaned back and scooped the two off. Carrying heavy stuff wasn't lady like but she had learned better than to question Jonas's orders.

Five days without food wasn't fun. It made the body weak and the mind delirious.

"You heard the guy, get moving."

Opening her wings, Mittelt looked after the [Knight]. He had won, yes but the fight had taken its toll. There was just a question of how he was ever going to get to Minato.

From what she had picked up, this wasn't looking good.

Scene skip

Akeno had never thought that two juvenile [Pawns] could prove so much trouble. With her body battered, and her magic depleted, she found that the Sekirei had proven themselves to be formidable adversaries.

"Here you go."

The magical lighting was answered by the lighting of the Sekirei themselves. Hits weren't uncommon and none of them had fought with the purest intention.

It didn't mean they weren't serious but they weren't going overboard.

"I don't think so."

From two ends, Akeno had gotten her own share of taking it.

The Twins were somewhat pleased that the [Queen] was one who could take the fight.

She had zapped them, and gotten close but was beaten, time and again by the excellent teamwork. In raw power, they didn't hold a candle but in terms of teamwork, communication, avoidance, hand-to-hand combat, and a few other things, they had Akeno beat.

Not that the Thunder Twins had anything bad to say about their foe. Both were thoroughly exhausted from the fight.

Kalawarner had been watching over the fight and found that this had taken long enough.

"Enough." All turned to the cool voice of reason.

"None of you have the power to continue this fight. We can have this but it has proven to exhaust Akeno-san before the Rating Game. By the power vested in me, by Jonasavo-sama, I hereby declare you three retired. You can let your masters know but I want you to retire from the game."

The three wanted to protest but all found that the darkened face from Kalawarner was enough to halt the talking.

[You heard that, Jonasavo-sama?]

The mercenary barked a laugh when he heard that.

[I really gotta find a way to call myself with my name. Kala, just a headcount. This means that Rias only got Kiba and Asia in the fight, right? Genius only lost four Pieces, right?]

She knew damn well that Jonas had been keeping track.

[You are correct.]

[Kiba got that fight with the two other [Pawns] done? Okay, that's a wrap. Game's over.]

No one could halt Jonas as he lifted his flare gun. Everyone could see the flame going up. Those at the bases, those at the cottage, and those in the field.

Kiba had just witnessed how Akitsu had frozen fields over as traps while Yume and Musubi had found the base of Rias. The heiress was about to start her own fight when they saw the flame.

On his base, Jonas sat back with Raynare who had a worry, etched all over her beautiful face.

"I take that Minato has won."

There was a big part of Jonas that he couldn't nod but the truth was out there and it was far from pretty.

"You are smart enough to figure that out yourself, Ray. I hope it's not too much to ask that you give me a lift."

There had been a lot of discussion on Jonas and being airborne. Given the fact that the obvious take was out, the mercenary would either use the ground as he ran alongside them.

With his physique and endurance, that proved seldom an issue or they had to carry him.

His reputation was a lot to him so a bridal carry was out of the question. A shoulder carry proved to be too strenuous on Raynare so they had opted for lifting him up under his arms and carrying him like that.

For the Fallen Angel, eighty kilograms of a human wasn't exactly an issue to handle.

With that done, Raynare carried Jonas alongside her while they flew back.

Scene skip

"I don't think I have to tell you who won that Game, right?"

Jonas had landed as he watched how Asia, Kusano, and Akitsu were handling the wounded while Rias glared at him defiantly.

"I could have won this fight."

Jonas squashed that protest down without a second thought.

"You had just Kiba and Argento in the Game. Your [Knight] wouldn't have won against two [Bishops], one [Pawn], one [Queen], and the [King] himself. That's an unwinnable scenario. Even if he managed to take down Akitsu, it would have left you to contend with two [Rooks] as well. And even so, it would have cost you too much energy. We can't exactly have that when your real one rolls by in four days."

Minato looked over at Jonas.

It was his call to make as referee. They didn't have the luxury of the magic of the Rating Game. That was why human precautions might have been the right one.

"I know that I called it in early but sixty percent of your fighting force was out and what remained wasn't exactly operational. Genius, your thoughts?"

The Ashikabi wasn't exactly pleased with Jonas but he did his job.

"I have to agree with the Soldier. Everyone, do you mind helping out the wounded? Soldier, a moment of your time?"

The Sekirei nodded and began to help out those around them.

The Ashikabi motioned they had to walk a good bit so they were out of earshot.

Looking over at his Sekirei, he was proud of them but saying that, was just pouring salt into an all-too-fresh wound.

This fight had meant to prepare Rias for her upcoming fight, not squash down the hope to actually win the real one.

"What do you want from me, Genius?" Jonas leaned against a tree while Minato had hoped this wouldn't be too hard.

"Soldier, the last Game proves that Rias-sama isn't prepared to take on Riser-sama? I implore you again to become part of her Peerage."

The mercenary crossed his arms and shook his head.

"Apologies, Genius but no can do. I do not want to be part of anything where I have to give up my freedom. That is my highest good."

The Ashikabi was never going to beg but this time, he was getting close.

"You can't be saying that it doesn't do anything to you."

"You think that I am glad with this outcome? Far from it but there are things I won't do. Becoming a Devil, voluntarily, I might add, isn't exactly up for it."

"Any other reason why you are so averse to the idea of becoming a servant of Rias-sama? As you have seen, she has a marvelous way to treat her servants." Minato shot back and Jonas pinched his nose.

"A leash of gold or a leash of metal, it doesn't change the one thing that it's a leash. I had to wear one for most of my life. I refuse to wear one ever again."

The eyes of Minato narrowed at him.

"There are worse beings that could hold your leash."

Jonas's fingers tightened around his M1911A1 as he looked at Minato.

"Most things that have tried to become my master are no longer alive."

Minato's eyes narrowed at the mercenary.

"Let me tell you something, Genius. I do have a person holding my leash. She has one more year to go as that is when the legality of her guardianship expires. I don't think you do know her but here is a famous exploit of her. The mess was caused by the previous overseer. The Devils hired a local to help the Church to clean that mess up."

Minato was too young to really hear the story when it happened but he did hear enough shards of it to puzzle together the awful tale.

It was something that he wished, was not even true.

"You are telling me that?" The pits of dread came into Minato's stomach and it was hard to ignore.

"Yep. If she figures out that I became a Devil, something that she had strictly forbidden me to do, what do you think would happen? To you, to Rias, to all around you?"

The stories from the local, as he gave her a name, were the sort of horror stories that most believed weren't real.

Like she was some sort of boogeyman that came out from under your bed to scare you.

"The woman you fear is a woman that I love. Nee-chan is sweet and kind but she can do unspeakable things. Never has she ever aimed anger at me and I would like to keep it that way. I understand your desperation, Genius. In fact, I share it."

His fingers weren't around his handgun and they were on Minato's shoulders.

"I made a deal with Rias to protect Raynare and her friends. If that deal were to come to Riser, well, let's just say it'd be unpleasant."

Minato now understood where Jonas stood and how to make the most of it.

And maybe with some probing, he could get him to work.

"Unpleasant is putting it mildly. This match has done two things. It proved that we have to ramp up their training. It also showed their weaknesses. They can turn this loss into a lesson."

The mercenary spat on the ground.

"That is pedagogical advice. In other words, shit you can't even wipe your ass with." The eyes of Jonas showed what he thought about that.

"The only thing that it showed is that Rias will need a fucking miracle to get out of this. As you are all Devils and I'm not exactly canonized, we'll need something else. Any ideas?"

Minato wondered why it became his time.

"Why do you ask me?"

Jonas went to stand in front of his face and signaled to Minato.

"You ain't a weakling and I'm not a fucking idiot. But we two have something we shine in. Yours is that of being a genius. An operator. A fucking handler for all I care. Mine is that for being a soldier."

Minato found that unwavering devotion and conviction weren't something that Jonas often carried with him.

It could be seen as a compliment that a man like him was trusting him with that much.

"When this game goes south, we'll need each other to work this through. You know that as well as I do. If no one else had made a contingency plan for Rias."

That did make a bell ring in Minato's head. Sirzechs had to find something for his younger sister.

But that was something he didn't know and so, they would have to make do with the means they had.

When he joined Jonas, the two walked back to the house.

The Peerage of Rias was patching back up but with how the fight went, it wasn't exactly easy to stay positive.

When Kazehana saw her [King] coming back up. Her eyes signaled to the group to stay put. No one dared to ask what she would do or what her intentions were.

There was an authority around her and she would help him out.

"Had a nice chat, Kerevechko-kun?"

The mercenary glared up at her and his tension was high but he found himself calming down.

"Not at all. But he's all yours. Good luck, miss." The Soldier walked the Fallen Angels and he just looked over the sorry state of Rias Gremory.

This wasn't good.

"What is wrong, Kazehana?"

The [Queen]'s voice had an authority that even he, her master, had to obey.

"Follow me."

And from what her eyes signaled, it was clear that he had to obey.

Neither of them talked for a bit while he followed his Sekirei.

Patience was a virtue but being led by the nose was something that Minato didn't look forward to.

"Okay, Kazehana? What do you." He was cut off by that as her lips attached themselves to his and her tongue slipped in his mouth.

He had been kissed before but it felt like Kazehana was completely dominating his mouth.

Hormones surged through his body and his nerves were lit. But this time, they were others compared to the ones that were often going harsher on him.

The fact that he had Kazehana's body pressed against him and his hands, nearly automatically, investigating the delightful ass that the Wind Flower had. When his fingers pressed a bit too hard, she yelped.

She was just as out of breath as he was and the validation from that sight was making him smile.

"Kazehana?" Her name was a command, a question, and a demand for an explanation for this all.

"You are too stressed, love. This last fight is now eating you and while I don't know what you and that Jonas boy talked about, I can't imagine that it was pleasant. Therefore, I believe it's time you need to take a break."

His eyes were nearly deadpan.

"Do you honestly believe that I can do anything else today? We are all exhausted. All of our limits were pushed so I was thinking that I."

The kiss again cut him off and it made Minato pause while Kazehana grabbed his arms and pinned him against the tree. Her hips rolled over him and she freed her left hand by going down.

She had been practicing and her hands made short work of his belt and button.

Kazehana growled in the kiss, especially since she felt how Minato's dick grew. It appeared that the last days had gotten him worked up.

And seeing his Sekirei in various stages of clothing and undressing, clearly had more than a little effect on him.

It was nearly painful how aroused Minato was and Kazehana's left hand was offering much-needed solace.

"I don't think I need to tell you what I want to do. And I think we can't exactly ignore it."

Minato sighed as he found that protesting was useless when your dick was this hard and ready to go.

"Fine, you win. Do what you want."

Minato hadn't expected her to drop to her knees while stroking the guy. Her mouth hovered over his head and it was like she was waiting to touch him.

For Kazehana, it wasn't the first time that her tongue touched his dick but it was the first time that her tits weren't there to accompany her mouth.

It would be tricky this time but she found that fellating Minato was high on her long list. And from the taste of it, she was falling for that idea of sucking him dry.

So when her mouth went to work, she grabbed the Ashikabi closer to her. The knees buckled and Minato felt himself lost in the pleasure.

While Kazehana had used her soft bosom to achieve release, this was the first time that he was actually getting into her body. Her throat took his length in while she buzzed with excitement. From the groans and moans that he made, it was clear that Minato appreciated it.

Her head bopped up and down while she kept her Ashikabi close. There was no way he could escape it. Even if he wanted to.

Normally, Kazehana would have wanted some compensation from Minato and with the way how she worked, even demanded it.

But she had dragged Minato along, undid his pants, and began to suck him off.

This was simply allowing Minato to take his mind off the disaster.

"Kaze, Kazeha, aah. Strong." Her Ashikabi panted with lust and her mind was just continuing on the smell.

She could feel his shaking and her mouth filling with his taste.

His head was tasting the same as his tongue. And now, with the strong scent, it might not have been the brightest idea to suck off her Ashikabi while they had a Rating Game.

There was a definitive scent to his body, not a stench as she would have imagined. It was driving her wild and her fingers travelled downwards to feel her wet folds. But she couldn't afford to.

Sucking him off to get his mind off was one thing but fucking him would make him shut down. And then she would have quite a few women mad at her.

"Mhmn, nnngh, aahn, mmh." Breathing through her nose, three of her senses only had Minato. Her eyes, mouth, and nose told Kazehana how much she loved this guy.

And when she felt a shudder, she realized that the words were true.

He had normal resistance but with the pleasure he received, she tasted his seed before he said anything.

It tasted nice, salty, and just the right thickness. The amount was also a nice addition. She didn't drown in it but it was enough to make this protein shake work.

Her mouth disengaged from his dick and it looked like Minato was able to keep standing.

The breathing came quickly and roughly but he did feel his mind swimming and his body settling. It did feel awesome and while he felt like the teenager that came too fast, there was more in his system.

"What the?" Pressing a finger on his mouth, Minato got quiet.

"I believed that you could use something to distract your mind. With all the things you went through."

It did make Minato incredibly grateful for noticing that but a blowjob wouldn't be his first choice.

Kazehana did take care of his stress and it did feel awesome. So there was no way in hell he would scold her.

Minato pulled his pants up while Kazehana got helped up by him as well.

He didn't care that her mouth had sucked him off. The kiss that followed up was one where he swallowed her tongue.

"Hun, there is something else on my mind." The Ashikabi remained quiet when he got over that bit.

"I understand you have been waiting and while I am touched you are fine with me, being your only sexual partner, you got eight women, waiting and willing. And I think that you should engage in more than platonic shows of affection."

"Shoving a tongue down a throat is not my definition of platonic." Haihane, Matsu, Musubi, and Akitsu all engaged in activities like that.

And while the joke broke some bits of the tension but not as much as Kazehana would have liked.

"They are progressing, love. Hard to hold them back."

Placing a finger on his first Sekirei's mouth, there was a certain amount of relief plus, gratefulness.

"I understand and I thank you, Kazehana. But let us first survive this whole debacle. When that is over, I promise you that either we two cross the last boundary or I'll start with the girls on going to phase three."

Kazehana winked at him.

"In Miya's house? Good luck, love. I think you are wiser to move out."

The Ashikabi remained quiet on that remark.

'We should be figuring something out for that. They got more patience than some.'

Scene skip

The end result of the Rating Game had a nasty effect, namely, the end result of harsher training for Rias and her Peerage.

Matsu had gone even harsher on the games, Akeno was often too tired to even move when the Fallen Angels and Kazehana were done, wounds had become frequent for Koneko and Kiba and Issei experienced one personal hell.

More than once, Minato would let Jonas go further with Issei and only allowed Asia to heal the bare essentials. The exhaustion had settled in for them.

More than once, Minato came back to one important part.

They were not ready.

The training had made them harder, faster, and stronger. Yet, the stinging experience of the loss kept ringing in their heads.

Eventually, the day had come where the last day of training had come.

Akeno, Kiba, and Koneko had been allowed into their bed while the Sekirei had also taken rest.

There were only four souls awake.

The [Pawn] was outside, listening in on what his master had to say. She was reading one more book, advised for the Rating Game.

"Did you know, Issei? The reason that I came to the human realm. Everywhere, in the Underworld, I am the heiress of the Gremory clan and the little sister of Sirzechs Lucifer. I just want someone that loves me for Rias."

The redheaded bombshell admitted that while she was looking outside at the moon.

Issei had listened to her.

"Is that why you refuse to marry Riser?"

"He sees me for the heiress I am. That and the fact that I refuse to become the prized jewel of that pig."

The [Pawn] looked up at her in admiration.

"I don't care what your name is. I like you, just for you. And I'll do anything to make you win."

From the shadows, the remaining two persons had been up. Inside the house, Minato cleaned up the kitchen while Jonas had taken care of the dishes.

"We gotta come up with a plan," Jonas asked as his eyes peered outside. The fatigue had also caught onto him.

"We have given them all the support we could have. Tomorrow, morning, we return back to Shinto Teito. I'll be able to watch the match. You?"

Jonas stretched his back while he looked over at Minato.

"I believe that Sona can offer me a place to watch. I'll hear from you later. Now, permission to retire?"

It felt natural to ask that of Minato as if he was a person that could order Jonas. If that was the case, it showed just how much Jonas trusted him.

"Just one question. I believe that your stance on reincarnation still stands. For example, you wouldn't allow me to reincarnate you."

The Soldier turned back to Minato and got close to him.

"You'd be correct. The only way that my leash-holder would ever allow me to be winged is if I was reincarnated to save my life."

That was enough information for Minato.

"I see. Granted to retire."

Jonas saluted and left the place while Minato stayed behind, looking over at the group.

'This isn't going to be well. But what else can I do?'

Scene skip

The mood of the Peerage/Flock hadn't improved after that morning. After saying their goodbyes to Rias and her group, they teleported back home to Shinto Teito.

When his eyes opened, they had landed again in the Inn of Miya.

"We're back." The rustle came through and from the hallway, ran Uzume to the group.

"Hey there, Uzume-"Before he could even add the suffix, Minato felt a powerful hug from her as she grabbed the male Ashikabi close.

Physical affection wasn't exactly uncommon for Minato. Not as a Devil in the Peerage of Serafall, nor now with his own as the Sekirei often love to hug, brush or be around him.

It was the first time though that he got that from someone to who Minato hadn't established a lifelong bond. That was the case with Uzume. Now, while he could get away from it, the fact that none of his Flock had budged, either because of shock or because of the fact they thought Uzume needed that, Minato kept Uzume close to him.

The shaking in her body subsided and his arms hung around her waist.

"Good to have you back, King." The whisper was soft and quiet but there was enough underlying from Uzume that spoke that she needed help from the Ashikabi.

"Hello, Uzume-chan. How have you been?"

Letting him go, she looked at him, and in her eyes, he was reading so many uncertainties and needs for help.

"Just glad to have you back. All of you." The Sekirei gathered around their roommate while Miya and Kagari walked back in.

"Good to see you back, Sahashi-kun. How was the training?" Miya calmly asked as she could read the mood of the group. It was not exactly a pleasant one.

Kagari remained quiet and watched how Minato began to talk.

"That was exhausting, to say the least. The Rating Game is tonight and I don't think we can't afford not to watch."

Stretching out, he felt the fatigue hitting his body.

"Let's get some sleep and wake up later. I'll set an alarm clock." Walking up to his room, followed by his Flock, Minato watched his bed.

"Home sweet home. I'll change first, join me later." It wasn't much though. He kicked off his trousers and would sleep in his boxers.

He crashed into the bed and shouted.

"You can enter." All Sekirei quickly changed into sleeping wear. They were all deprived of being around their Ashikabi in the night so this would be one rare and valuable treat.

Even despite their tired bodies, none of them could sleep easily. Their match showed that Rias would be one uphill battle.

Scene skip

The night of the Rating Game came far too quickly for the Peerage. All of them had gathered around the small tv that Miya kept in her living room.

But as that was far from appropriate to watch such a spectacular match, Minato had gotten the screen enlarged to a home cinema. All of the residents had gathered the tv, even Miya, Kagari, and Uzume had done so.

They could see the countdown.

"So this is kind of a match between Devils? Like we Sekirei have." Miya asked as she was sure to read the mood from Minato and his Flock.

"It's more like a training before War but now, it's a way to earn prestige. Although, for Rias-sama, it's a way to earn her freedom."

The solemn tone and the subtle messages made Miya a more relaxed view of it as she realized that none of the Sekirei were in a particular mood to share this story.

All they could do was watch and hope.

Scene skip

Issei Hyoudou had hoped the preparation would be enough to keep his [King] safe.

The training had been harsh, unrelenting, and demanding. Yet, the loss still played in his head.

Asides from the bodily fights, his mental state had also changed. While ambition still reigned in him, he had to postpone his idea of the Dress Break and shelve up until later.

The clock had slowly begun to turn until midnight.

"Just a bit more before we have to leave. I need to get to Asia." The door opened and if Issei couldn't see through the dark, he found Asia standing in the middle of his room.

She was wearing her nun habit while forgoing her rosemary.

"Buchou said to fight in the clothes we find most comfortable. I couldn't forsake this."

The [Pawn] smiled and nodded.

"I think it suits you, Asia." With that done, the two teleported to the clubroom.

Inside, they found the rest of the Peerage gathered. Koneko was wearing cat paws while Kiba had taken up a sword. Behind the desk, they found Rias and Akeno. The president had been seated while the [Queen] had a demure smile on her face.

"Good to see you are all gathered here."

The door opened and it revealed Sona and Tsubaki.

"Good to see you are watching. But after this, I think you owe me an explanation a bit more about Minato."

The Sitri Heiress blinked as she heard that name again.

"Minato-niichan helped us during our training," Akeno helpfully added.

"You also met his Peerage?" Sona inquired while already knowing the answer.

"Ten Pieces, filled out. He got himself one nice Flock." Rias shot back.

"We do need indeed a talk with him. But onto current matters. We'll be watching this game. Good luck, Rias. In related news, Jonas and his group are watching with my Peerage."

Of course. It wouldn't be in Jonas nature to avoid watching this game.

Another circle opened and Grayfia came out. Everyone showed proper respect towards the Ultimate [Queen].

"Milady, it is time. I will also inform you that Lucifer-sama will be watching. He sends you his support"

"Onii-sama?"

Issei had picked up the news of Rias' older brother being the Lucifer that had taken the mantle as leader.

"It'll be a closed watch. I have also taken the liberty to provide Minato with a way to watch. Good luck, miss."

With that done, the two left the building while they just waited on the teleportation of the Game. It would signal the start of it.

And before long, they were taken into the place and the magic had done its job.

Scene skip

In other places, there would be quite a few spectators of this match. One of those spectators were the parents of the would be couple.

Zeoticus Gremory had invited the lord and lady Phenex into their home.

The father had a similar appearance to his son but there were enough differences between them. The lack of a bad boy attitude and the addition of a beard was the most distinct.

"It's good to see you again, old friend, despite the circumstances." Zeoticus shared the sympathies.

"I know. Maybe, this would be a great way for them to get on a better foot." The ladies of the house had also gathered and both knew of this match.

When a circle opened, Sirzechs Lucifer came walking out. There was a thing as proper decorum but the super Satan waved that away.

"Please, no need for that. I'm here as an older brother, who wants to see his sister's first Rating Game."

Venelana Gremory crossed her arms under her sizeable bust (a trait that Rias had inherited) and her eyes could make the Super Devil waver.

"A word, son?"

Guiding him around, Venelana got the Lucifer Devil to an uncopied room.

Sirzechs wondered what his mother could want from him but as soon as the door closed, her eyes remained locked.

"I heard a funny little thing. It turns out that our adopted boy was around to help Rias prepare. I have to ask, was that your or Serafall's doing?"

Despite his name, there were some people that Sirzechs would never lie to.

His mother was one among them.

"Would you believe me if I told that it was actually Grayfia's idea? She went to visit Minato and took Milicias along in the guise of a visit but she roped Minato in helping out Rias Peerage."

Hearing that news took the former Princess of Ruin for a loop when she heard that.

"She was the one. That is something I would have never guessed from her."

"I do believe mother, we will hear quite a bit from little brother. Kuoh has seen some surprises."

Venelana would have to grill Grayfia about that transgression later.

"Would you not visit your sister?"

"I have sent Grayfia in my stead. I think mother, that we have bended enough for this. We can only wait."

Scene skip

When the Occult Research Club opened their eyes, they found themselves in the exact room in which they started.

"Did something go wrong? We are still here."

Rias had a calm smile as she shook her head on her [Pawn's] question.

"Look outside. You can see it right."

The sky was a mixture of orange and green. Not blue as Issei had expected.

"They are giving us our home turf to play with us. It appears they are really not taking this serious."

Her eyes flickered over to the group.

"It gives us an advantage. Maou knows that we'll need plenty of those, Rias." Akeno's giggle helped calm down their nerves.

It was at this point where the voice of Grayfia rang over the skies.

[Hello, everyone. My name is Grayfia Lucifuge, a maid of the house of Gremory. I'll be the referee of this Rating Game between Rias Gremory and Riser Phenex. In the name of my master, Sirzechs Lucifer-sama, I'll be keeping an eye on this match. This battlefield which has been chosen by both Lord Gremory and Lord Phenex is a replica of the school that Rias-sama attends in the human realm, Kuoh Academy. The location to which both teams have been transported will be their base so to speak. Rias-sama's "base" would be the Occult Research Club, in the old school building. Riser-sama's "base" is in the Student Council room, in the new building. For the [Pawns] to use Promotion, they must first enter the enemy's base. Fighting will begin in thirty minutes but between that time, it is allowed to set enchantments.]

That had been a nice addition to it. Issei had gotten through his training and the end result was that he could handle onto the [Queen]'s Piece. It was one blessing.

"We got half an hour. Let's make the most of it. Kiba, Koneko. I want you two to take your Familiars and set out traps. Akeno, you are going to be surveillance and plant illusions. Issei, you are to remain here."

The Dragon nodded and as the other Pieces left, she sat down. Patting on her thighs, she looked over at him.

"Now, can you come here?"

The mind of Issei began to boggle on the request of his sexy master.

'She's going to let me lay on her lap. This is so awesome. I wonder what her ideas for this are, but I cannot complain.'

With the goofiest of grins, Issei laid down on the lap of his master while Asia was stewing in jealousy. It just wasn't fair how well developed, voluptuous and sexy Rias looked while Issei looked so happy.

Her soft hands began to stroke his hair and he could feel the softness. Plus, the delicious smell that seeped into his pores.

But then his body changed and he could feel something.

'What is this? I feel stronger.'

Rias looked up at him.

"Do you remember what I told you when you were reincarnated? I used all my Eight [Pawn] Pieces for you. Unfortunately, you couldn't handle them all hence why they were sealed in."

"Then? What I felt now."

The red-headed bombshell nodded and smiled.

"I released two Pieces of you. Your body can now handle the power inside of you. It'll be the extra power you'll require."

Asia was complementing and her old teachings had begun to set in. She really had to learn to stop praying if she wanted to avoid the headaches.

Scene skip

Miya had now decided. She would not complain about Minato's takes on how he would take care of his Devils. It was clear that compared to Issei, he was an upright, moral sound and not driven by his dick man.

Minato had sealed the eyes of Kusano as he wanted to avoid more damage than she already had received from being around Issei.

The rest of the Peerage had already gotten used to Issei's antics while Uzume was now uncomfortable from the way how Issei acted.

"Is that guy someone powerful?"

"I hope that by the time that he gets stronger, he learns more. But yeah, Uzume-chan, that guy right there is a Dragon. I'll tell you later what that entails."

Scene skip

Rias waited until her Peerage had returned before she would continue the talk of her strategy.

"Okay, everyone. Listen up. Riser's strategy hinges on his ability to regenerate. With his arrogance, he'll most like use that said strategy to take us on. Too proud to change up his tactics. For us, with our limited numbers, we can't afford something defensive. We'll need to go all out."

Her delicate fingers pointed over the map on where to go.

"The three places of importance are the gym, the school field and the sport grounds. We can't use the latter two as there is no cover. The same could be said for him. If I have to go from his previous fights, he'll send a few [Pawns] with maybe a [Rook] as protection our way. He has higher numbers with the hope that the [Pawns] can promote. We have to avoid that."

Her eyes shifted to her own [Pawn]

"Issei, I want you and Koneko to secure the gym. Kiba, you'll be taking the perimeter to prevent stragglers from coming through. Akeno, until the gym is secured, you'll be holding back."

For the [Queen], it was a delayed gratification but it had taken her great pains to realize those could be so much sweeter.

"Yes, Buchou!"

"Asia, I'll remain here. I want you to stay with me in case, Riser comes out of the school. Is that understood?"

"Yes!" For the gentle [Bishop], she wouldn't be in the heat of battle.

They had made the most of their time and the voice of Grayfia rang over the school grounds.

[The thirty minutes are up. From now on, fighting is allowed. Good luck to you all.]

"Before you all leave." Rias' hand revealed six glowing orbs. The same one that they had used during the game with Minato.

"I can't believe that we had nearly forgotten about them. Thanks, Buchou."

All of them got the spell in their bodies while they walked through.

Their preparations were done and they left the clubroom.

Issei and Koneko walked side by side to the gym. It felt unnatural. This place was their school but it wasn't at the same time.

"I don't think we'll be able to take the school quietly." Koneko had been more experienced and Issei agreed.

There was enough noise to wake the dead.

Scene skip

Riser was sitting back in the room of the Student Council. His preparations were unbecoming of a High-Class Devil in growing.

There wasn't an issue with how someone acted in private but for the ones watching, it left a foul taste in their mouths.

"Onii-sama, shouldn't we prepare?" The voice of Ravel brought him back.

"Don't worry, Ravel. Rias has only one shot at this. Her inexperience and that of her Peerage will be her downfall." Ravel wished that her brother would take his matches more serious. Even if they had the upper hand, leaving matters to the coincidence was asking for trouble.

When Grayfia's voice was heard, [The thirty minutes are up. From now on, fighting is allowed. Good luck to you all.], he smirked.

"They might be too weak for you but do not hold back! Crush them completely! It'll show Rias on how to take them down. The only reason why we play this silly game is to break down Rias' pride. Once I cut that down, she'll come to me."

There was only one other thing that Riser looked forward to asides from getting Rias.

Once the engagement ceremony was done, there were two men who earned his ire.

Jonas Kerevechko would be too easy to take down and even if he was the [Pawn] of Serafall Leviathan, she couldn't protect him if Riser decided that his interference had to be punished.

Scene skip

The gym had been the same as before and together, Koneko and Issei walked through. They didn't say anything as they felt the presence of their foes. The lights flickered bright and they heard the voice speak.

"We know you are there, servants of Gremory." The two looked from the side and sighed.

"You are right. Sneaking was an impossible task. I think it's time to put our training into practice."

Issei walked first with Koneko behind him. They watched over their foes.

Three [Pawns] and one other Piece. Issei guessed she was a [Rook]. That said [Rook] was wearing a traditional Chinese Dress that showed off her body.

Two of the [Pawns] were a set of twins. With gym outfits, they looked a bit cute. The last girl was wearing an haori and she had an stick out.

"Well, Riser-sama was right as always. Sending out her best plan was stupid."

Issei cracked his knuckles.

"Call her all you want. Only thing that matters is that we get you down."

Koneko also looked the group over.

"Issei-senpai. I'll take care of the [Rook]. Do you mind taking over the [Pawns]?"

The Dragon nodded and developed his [Sacred Gear].

The [Rooks] began their match as Xuelan used her own fire. Unluckily for her, Koneko's reflexes had gotten sharper through the fights with Musubi and Benitsubasa.

Koneko had gotten good at blocking strikes and avoiding them. Xuelan couldn't believe what she had done during that time to grow this much in leaps and bounds.

When Koneko got under the calve, a blow came right at the knee. There was a feeling of broken bones and Xuelan had to jump back.

Issei, on the other hand, began to avoid the strikes from Mira, Ile and Nel.

The male would never admit it but the things that Jonas and Minato were doing, were now paying off.

He wasn't being an amateur by avoiding the attacks as he used the flight through it.

While his [Sacred Gear] could give him the [Boost!], he couldn't risk that now. So he was using his base strength. The Gear protected him from the blow of Mira. When his hand got close enough, he smashed her skull in.

She hadn't expected that much power, coming from him. Was this the same boy who she hammered right to the roof in Kuoh?

[Riser Phenex. One [Pawn] retired.] Issei smirked as he watched how Ile and Nel were horrified by his actions.

It had taken him great pains and lengths to learn that talking during a fight, was often harshly punished.

So he refrained from commenting and used the few tense moments to use his enhanced strength to smash down the first pawn.

Nel gasped with the pain that she experienced as Issei clasped her through and her body felt the punch through.

Again, the voice of Grayfia sang over the gymnasium.

[Riser Phenex. One [Pawn] retired.] [Ile saw him still standing and from that point onwards, Issei had an idea that he conceived. Unfortunately, the idea of his [Dress Break] would have to wait but something else had come through.

[Dragon Shot!]

A ball of energy came rushing through and Ile had no chance to avoid that attack. Before his attack could even do more damage to her body, Grayfia's voice spoke again.

[Riser Phenex. One [Pawn] retired.]

He had learned heavy lessons from Jonas and Minato and those had paid off.

Scene skip

Minato watched back with the fight that Issei had done.

The [Boosted Gear] was something with unbridled opportunities and unlimited power. But it was to Issei himself to prove that and work that through.

The [Dragon Shot] was a nice start on it and it proved that his torture had paid off.

"Proud of your pupil, Minato?" The question wasn't weird but it was weird to hear from that person.

Haihane knew what the Soldier and Ashikabi did to Issei.

"He could have done better but there is promise." Not to mention that if he used it for something stupid, he would have to beat Jonas to be the first to start laying out a heavy punishment on Issei.

Scene skip

Koneko had Xuelan on the floor while she cracked through and completely broke Xuelan's spine top to bottom.

The face of her foe was confronted in pain when she saw that.

Grayfia spoke again while Issei didn't show any emotion in his face.

[Riser Phenex. One [Rook] retired.]

"That was hardcore, Koneko-chan." The Dragon commented to which Koneko shrugged.

"We do our best for our master. I have to admit, impressive work on your end, Issei-senpai."

Issei smiled and looked back at her.

"I'll admit this now, Koneko-chan. Your Nii-san knows how to fight."

Koneko was surprised that Issei would use that nickname for Minato but it showed the amount of respect that Issei had gotten.

"That he does, Issei-senpai, that he does."

They heard the voice of Rias through their communicators.

[Issei, Koneko. How did the fight go?]

"Buchou. We are fine. We are done with our foes here. Pretty nice, actually." With the immediate danger gone, he looked over at Koneko who had some ripped clothing.

Neither could stop the small brush coming up their faces, the youngest even pouting when Issei mentioned that.

[Glad to hear that. Akeno is ready to make her move now. Please, continue with the plan.]

Both had gotten their orders and walked out. They didn't want to be in the blast radius what it happened.

They had just gotten outside as Akeno fired her attack. A yellow seal, with the Gremory insignia, darkened over the sky. It hit the gym with such force that it blew Issei and Koneko away.

"Take." The voice of Akeno rang over. Issei admitted that it was kinda nice to see her in a Miko outfit while Koneko and Issei looked up to her.

"That was amazing." Issei simply said as he looked up to her.

Ozon trickled around in the air and electricity played around Akeno.

"Akeno-senpai is well known as the Priestess of Thunder. I heard those who know her are aware of her alias and immense powers." A blush washed over the face and it looked like Akeno was enjoying herself.

"The Priestess of Thunder, huh? That is a name I'll have to keep in mind."

Scene skip

Hikari and Hibiki watched her fight and began to think about how they would carve out their own name.

"Something on your mind?"

The Ashikabi asked and the two looked over at her.

"We'll have to think about our own nickname when you make your debut in Rating Games, Minato." Hikari spoke and the [King] knew what she was talking about. That could mean they would do some serious damage if they were playing around.

"Let's hope that we'll have time. Because I'd like you to be able to handle the [Queen] Piece. That means I'll have two girls like Akeno." The twins knew perfectly what they had to do.

Scene skip

Inside the Club Room, Rias spoke into her communicator.

[We are still outnumbered. It'll take some time for Akeno to be ready to fire another shot. We'll join you on the battlefield as soon as she recovers. Until then, both of you should start getting ready for the next phase of the plan.]

Issei looked over at Koneko.

"Next phase is."

"Meeting Yuuto-senpai around the track field, and annihilate the enemies in the area."

Looking over at the forest, Issei began to think of him.

"I wonder if Kiba is all right?"

For Yuuto, he had his own things to take care of.

The [Pawns] who had penetrated the forest, consisted of three players. Two maids and a showgirl. In the Student Council Room, Jonas looked over the way how they were dressed for a fight.

He had taken a screen for his own to watch some other developments.

"Remind me to get you something to fight in. You show too much skin." Raynare knew that it was a heckled point that she and Jonas were fighting about.

She was getting closer to him while they watched how the [Pawns] destroy the traps.

"Do they seriously think that traps like these can protect them?"

When the fog cleared out, they saw the Old School House.

"That must be their main base!"

Unfortunately, they forgot that illusions were also great ways to fight.

"What just happened?"

"Too bad for you." His polite tone did nothing to hide his malice.

"You can't get out of here anymore." The smile wasn't a friendly one, either. It was just a promise of pains and lots of it.

"You're inside a barrier that our [Queen] created."

The insignia was pure red and showed the alliance of it.

"Shoot, we were distracted by the traps and didn't notice!"

Tapping his head, Kiba smiled. There were some lessons they had learned.

"We need clever tricks to overcome our lack of manpower." The [Knight] was about to have some real fun.

"I don't want to say this since you're actually my type, but do you really think you'll defeat the three of us on your own?" The showgirl asked Kiba with honest intention.

Kiba smiled back at her.

"I had a hard teacher. And I am willing to make him proud. I have an older brother watching over me."

Kiba unsheathed his sword. Given the fact that there were not much weapons and they didn't look as bizarrely strong as Benitsubasa, those odds were far much in his favor.

Plus, the things that Jonas had taught him, were also sticking with him. The two had a few talks during their days.

Using his high speed, he was smashing through the showgirl. She barely had a chance to fight back when his powers came through.

"And I also have the words of a senior, to obey."

[Riser Phenex. One [Pawn] retired.] The voice of Grayfia spoke and he looked over the two maids.

"And I really can't afford to slip up."

The maids readied their sticks but it was wood versus metal.

The conclusion could have been forgone.

Scene skip, a bit before his fight

Issei and Koneko looked up to the building and while their start had been better than against Minato, they weren't out of the woods just yet.

The little [Rook] looked up and only had the slightest moment to push Issei out of the way. He came down, crashing and bouncing but alive and unharmed.

The same couldn't be said for Koneko who had taken the attack at full force. It was like a bomb that had been dropped.

"Take."

The voice drifted above them. Just like the woman. She was dressed with black wings and her right eye was covered by her hair.

The dress really didn't hide too much and the jewelry was closer to gauche than class.

Like a smoking gun, the staff in her hands was still etching with a flame.

"Koneko-chan!" Issei rushed over to his team mate.

The burns covered her nearly completely and the clothing was actually gone. He could scoop her up and keep her closer while his eyes glared at the woman in the sky.

"Shit, was that Riser's [Queen]?"

The woman was giggling as she watched her over.

"I think you should have kept your surroundings in mind, young boy. We have more numbers and we can take."

To avoid a bolt coming her way, she had to duck for that. Akeno was pissed from that attack.

"Like that is a concern to me. I'll take you on."

Issei was still cradling Koneko. The shivers and wounds had been really serious.

"Issei-senpai."

The boy looked at her.

"Sorry. I wish…. I could have…helped out… a bit more." There were nearly tears in her eyes as her body went up in particles.

Issei had seen the same thing happening with the Pieces of Riser.

Koneko had her limit and it showed that she had to go.

[Rias Gremory. One [Rook] retired.]

Issei heard Rias talk to him.

[Issei, calm down. Koneko is retired. Like in the Mock Game. She's fine. She'll be taken care of. Let Akeno take care of that [Queen]. You need to get to the school and meet Kiba there.]

The boy nodded and understood.

"Alright, buchou." He began to run and then heard the news of Grayfia.

[Riser Phenex. One [Pawn] retired.]. It remained quiet until he heard her speak again.

[Riser Phenex. Two [Pawns] retired.]

His smile went back on his face.

The communicators would work as well in another and he contacted Kiba.

"You took care of those three, didn't you?"

He had expected Kiba to talk back to him but then he heard the voice of his teammate, right next to him.

"It doesn't take long for me to get around. I have taken care of those [Pawn] Pieces." Issei smiled back at him.

"I guessed it was you. If you ask me, this is better than the Mock One." Issei began to walk to the sport fields.

"Don't jinx us, just yet." The two continued to walk to the same place.

"But yes, I think this is going well." Then they heard the voice of their Master.

[Yuuto, Issei. Can you hear me? Asia and I will launch a surprise attack on their main base, so distract as many enemies as possible to buy us some time.]

"Buchou, are you out of your mind? It is way too risky! Wait until we are sure!"

[I don't have another choice. The plan has to change now as Akeno can destroy each building. With her [Queen] out, that is out of the window. I don't have time. Riser is thinking the same. So if you two can take care of that, I can do that.]

They knew that it was no use arguing.

"Let's hope she is right."

Yuuto began to get more trust in Issei and when they walked through the fields, they stood back to back.

"It's time that we earn our stripes. I couldn't face Koneko-chan if we lost here."

There was more than just winning for Rias. They would pay dearly for what they did to Koneko.

Scene skip

All of Rias Peerage had taken harsh lessons from the fight with Minato and Akeno was the one with most to learn.

So it came down to her own power that she used from Kazehana and the Thunder Twins.

She avoided the attacks gracefully that Yubelluna sent her way and gave her dozens of her own.

The staff was impossible to keep in her hands as they got blasted out of hers.

It wasn't hard or powerful but just the right amount on the right spot that immobilized her opponent [Queen].

It all paid off as the woman came crashing down when the wings gave out.

But she wouldn't just leave it at that.

All the ideas that she learned from the Twins also came rushing back into her head. Before Yubelluna could touch the ground, Akeno had already gotten close.

Her hands were full with energy of lightening and they smashed into the face of Yubelluna.

She had taken far less injuries than she would have guessed. Maybe, it was a show that it paid off.

And that Minato avoided the mistakes that Riser had made.

Yubelluna wasn't a [Queen]. She didn't use the full extent of her powers. Something that Akeno was doing at that point.

Plus, she decided hat with all that Yubelluna had done on their end, she more than deserved the beating she was getting.

It was fun, it was exhilarating, it was a thrill that Akeno was now unleashing at the face of Yubelluna. When she got catapulted into the ground, with a vicious strike, the dust was still high while Akeno kept smiling.

And when it cleared up, Yubelluna was coughing up blood, and her face was still smeared.

"That was not something I expected."

"I had good teachers. Unorthodox, but good. And I will never be able to thank a set of Twins."

Scene skip

"I'll give you ladies a way to contact her. You get along well with her." Minato watched how the twins knew exactly who she was talking about.

"Thank you, Ashikabi-sama."

"Now, Minato-kun. Whose idea was it to train her that ruthlessly?" The visage of Miya's Hanya barely made Minato move an inch. Weirdly enough, it did nothing for the Sekirei either.

"Akeno has always been a ruthless fighter. The training only gave her ideas. Ideas that made this work. I wasn't the one training her. She got Hikari, Hibiki and Kazehana. Plus, some extra help."

Minato really liked what he saw and what Rias was doing.

His smile fell from his face when he saw the redhead leaving the building.

Rias was not playing along well. This could jeopardize the entire plan.

Scene skip

"You can come out! You are here, right?!"

The dust settled and out from them, came one woman with sandy blonde hair. The attire was a mix of European and Japanese influences. The chest plates, gauntlets and greaves, clearly showed that European part but the hips plates and shoulder guards were Japanese. Just like the headband.

A sword and dagger were hung on the hips and the sword had a red jewel on the pommel. It was also where her hands were on.

"You are fools to fight us here. But I can respect that. I like idiots like you!"

Her sword was engulfed in flames and it showed a challenge.

"I'm Rias-sama's [Knight], Kiba Yuuto." Unsheathing his own sword, he smiled.

"I was looking forward to cross swords with a fellow [Knight]!"

It appeared that Karlamine was more than eager for a fight.

"Well said, [Knight] of the Gremory." Using their high speed, their metal clashed, sparks came out while their battle began.

"Amazing!" Issei was amazed by the ferocity of the fight.

"But this doesn't mean that I won't have to fight." His words barely left his mouth until he turned to find a lady waiting for him.

"Not necessarily."

His head turned to find the punk [Rook] waiting.

From the other side, a haughty voice spoke.

"Karlamine. All she thinks about all day, is swords, sword and again swords." The frilly dress fitted a high class lady but Issei didn't know for sure if she was here to fight.

"She seemed upset about sacrificing some pieces too. What an unbelievably, unrefined girl. " she continued to talk.

"And when I finally found a cute boy, it turns out that he's another sword freak."

Issei found himself closed in by six girls.

Two from his sides, four at the front. Issei wasn't sure how it went.

Kiba's eyes switched to the back.

'He's using all his remaining Pieces to deal with us! Buchou's prediction was right.' Through the bushes and hallways, Rias and Asia managed to sneak through.

The girl kept talking while looking disapproving of Issei.

"But really, Rias-sama seems to have a strange taste in men."

Issei sighed when he heard those lines.

"Looks like I am spoiled for choice. [Boosted Gear]!"

[Boost!]

The gauntlet shouted while he was ready to fight back.

"Oh, excuse me, but I'm not fighting."

The [Bishop] had her hand up like she was excusing herself. With that done, she ordered the punk rocker to move

"Isabella."

"I am Isabella, Riser-sama's [Rook]. Here I come. Rias Gremory's [Pawn]." The first few attacks were not that hard to avoid.

Hell, if Issei compared her to Jonas, the [Rook] was testing out the waters while Issei was already pushing her back.

Her defensive parts were already covered but offense seemed to be her A-game. It wasn't like he was pushed to his limits but it was not too hard to keep up.

It was better to avoid her punches as they were good enough to knock a guy down. When she spun around, it slammed into his ribs but he was able to stay on his feet.

When he heard another [Boost!], he was already counting.

Isabella had flunked him back and when he saw her fist, he swung her over his shoulder and made her crash into a tree.

'That is five now. Enough for a [Pawn] but not for a [Rook].'

That is until he remembered something.

Minato had told him this.

'You don't have to keep using your [Boosted Gear]. You can use other tactics. If your body is strong enough, you can use that to push back.'

"It seems that you have gotten training. Who is the one who worked you over?"

Issei chuckled when he heard that.

"I won't tell you. I got a serious beating and that is what got me to this point. I won't lose!" "You seem to have a good teacher. I really wonder who he was."

Isabella got closer to Issei and there were more kicks and pushes coming through but Issei just remained as steadfast. Avoiding the attacks became like something normal but then, he avoided the blow. Instead of using his [Gear], it was his other fist that came through on the nose. When she laid on the ground, Issei had seen this move done on him, one too many times when Jonas sparred with him.

A vicious kick completely broke the mask.

Then he aimed his [Boosted Gear] and with the last time, it shouted [Boost!]

[Dragon Shot!]

Isabella was blasted away from that attack and it gave the remaining Pieces, Karlamine included paused when they saw Issei, hungry for more blood.

[Riser Phenex. One [Rook] retired.] It was like the voice of Grayfia was one that spoke reason.

"I was trained by the meanest sumbitch that Kuoh has ever seen. And I am happy for it."

Scene skip

Minato didn't disagree that the statement fit well on Jonas and he was happy that Issei didn't mention him.

It would be a serious headache to deal with if more people found out that he was helping them.

Not that they weren't in hot water already.

"Mou, who is Issei talking about? It doesn't sound like he appreciated you." The pout of Musubi was adorable but Minato just laughed.

"I don't think he is talking about me, Musubi-chan."

Scene skip

The fights had continued and the flame sword had broken Kiba's weapon.

"My Holy Eraser!"

Karlamine waved around the sword, filled with flames while Kiba stood back from her next attack.

"Unfortunately, that attack doesn't work on me."

The [Knight] of the Gremory wasn't outdone just yet.

"How about this? Freeze!"

From the empty handle, a sword, made completely out of ice, showed up.

"Damn it. You have two [Sacred Gears]?!"

Karlamine should have paid attention to chemistry classes as Kiba's sword broke hers this time. She didn't mourn the loss of her blade and pulled out her dagger.

"It doesn't matter. We, proud members of the Phenex family, control flames, wind and life! This is your loss!"

Her dagger broke his sword again but Kiba wasn't moved. Out of thin air, he made another sword.

The end of the blade had a small black hole, that sucked up the flames that the dagger produced.

Karlamine felt how Kiba was outdoing her.

"Really? How many [Sacred Gears] do you have?!"

The [Knight] smirked again and looked at her.

"I have just one. It's called [Sword Birth]. I can create any magic sword that I want." He forced Karlamine back.

And now, it was time for something really special. Touching the ground, Kiba made the ground rumble and the swords came out.

Issei had been avoiding the attacks of Siris who had taken over the attacks from Isabella. The Dragon began to think that Kiba would have liked to deal with her.

Her Zweihander was too big to even fight back against and while he could keep his [Boost!] up, it was getting harder to avoid it all.

Then something came that really shook him off.

"Hey, Siris. Allow him some rest. Look up there." Both men of the Gremory Peerage stopped while they looked up to the school roof top.

"You two. Can you tell what that means?"

Up in the green sky, Rias had taken Asia along for the flight.

"This isn't good."

Kiba was also worried.

"Did he see through our plan?"

Up in the rooftop, Rias looked at her foe.

"You knew I'd come, didn't you?"

With his hands in his pockets, Riser was boasting as if he had already won this match.

"A virgin like you shouldn't underestimate my experience, Rias."

The match wasn't over and Rias knew that.

"Vulgar as ever."

"You might have many special pieces. Ruin Princess, Twilight Healing, Priestess of Thunder, Sword Birth, and the Boosted Gear."

Ravel chuckled when she watched the boy over.

"We are Phenex. We're the immortal bird." The reprieve was enough to get the other Pieces to surround Issei.

"Do you now see that there is no hope for you?"

The Dragon sighed as he looked things over.

"As I heard once, who wants to live forever?"

That was enough to get the two [Pawns] to move. One of them got close enough to him but unlike what they had guessed, he grabbed her by the arm and swung her around.

Her sister couldn't avoid the attack and so it was Ile who kicked Ri. The Dragon didn't hesitate and with his [Boosted Gear], the claws dug in the flesh.

A crunch followed and it was the broken neck that Issei hoped for. He threw the limp body right back at Ile.

The [Pawn] could not stop Issei as he used his [Dragon Shot!].

From close enough, it was something that he had seen in a video game. It was pretty brutal how the body couldn't handle the shock.

[Riser Phenex. Two [Pawns] retired.]

Then it became the other fighter, Siris. The remaining [Knight] who was using her large sword while Ravel and the other [Bishop] watched.

Unfortunately, an explosion got his attention away.

"Buchou!"

It was reassuring to hear her voice that sang to him.

[I'm alright. Worry about your own opponent!]

Rias was not outdone by her own attacks.

[My adorable servant. Show them what one of Rias Gremory's subordinates can do!]

It was like her words spurred a fire into his heart.

'She is right. I'm her subordinate!'

It was at that point, he could stop the sword of Siris. For all remaining Pieces, it was enough to take them by surprise.

The power that flew through it, was something that he had never had before.

"I don't need to think! I am here for Buchou. Just to kick your asses!" He shattered the sword of Siris and then began to talk.

"Emperor of the Red Dragon. If you can hear me, respond! Lend me your power!"

The voice of the [Boosted Gear] spoke.

[Dragon Booster!]

He could feel more power in his veins but it was not enough. Not by a long shot.

"More! I need more! You feed on my emotions! Then feel them! [Boosted Gear]"

[Dragon Booster. Second Liberation!]

Engulfed by a green energy, that shot up to the sky, it blew all remaining Pieces away.

Another jewel grew beneath Issei's wrist, and more yellow spikes came out.

The Dragon looked amazed to his weapon.

"I-It transformed?"

It was just the right time to test it out and the right person to use it on.

"Kiba, liberate your [Sacred Gear]!"

It only took a second for the [Knight] to figure out what Issei meant.

"Hurry up!"

The blonde nodded to Issei and plunged it down on the ground.

"[Sword Birth]!"

It came racing down to Issei but the Dragon stood ready and absorbed the rest of it.

[Transfer]!

Kiba had never though that Issei could pull this off but from around him, metal work came out from all around them.

The entire sport field was covered by the different swords that Issei had made.

For the rest of Riser's Peerage, it wasn't as wonderful as it took out all of them.

[Riser Phenex. Two [Knights]. Two [Bishops] retired.]

Kiba looked at Issei in amazement. The [Pawn] had grown by leaps and bounds during his time;

Scene skip

In the Student Council room, Tsubaki commented.

"He boosted the [Knight]'s ability with his [Boosted Gear]?"

Sona was also watching in amazement.

"Emperor of the Red Dragon granted him a new ability: [Boosted Gear Gift.]"

Jonas had his arms crossed and looked damn proud at Issei.

"I will admit that his ideas are impressive. It was a good show."

The other guy in the Peerage was watching Issei in amazement.

'Looks like I'm not the only Dragon.'

Scene skip

There was no time to celebrate their new victory.

When they looked up, they saw something that made their hearts drop.

[Rias Gremory [Queen] retired.]

For all remaining Pieces, that was a hard pill to swallow.

On the rooftop, Rias was looking in horror to see her best friend go out .

"Akeno."

Riser was all too happy with that news.

"Looks like you lost your much-boasted right-hand woman."

The situation was dire but not as bad as with Minato's Rating Game.

"I still have Yuuto and Issei!"

Riser's smirk began to piss off quite a few people.

"You wish."

Issei had a hard time believing that news.

"I can't believe that Akeno-san was defeated!"

It wasn't bad enough as another strike came through.

"Kiba!"

Same as with Koneko, the Dragon saw the [Knight] disappear. And there was nothing he could do about it.

"Take." The same cruel voice spoke and Issei watched the [Queen] floating in the sky.

[Rias Gremory. One [Knight] retired.]

"Yuuto."

Riser watched it over and smirked.

"Resign already, Rias!"

The heiress shot her energy to him while she wasn't going over.

"As if I would!"

Despite the energy and the hits, Riser kept crawling back up.

"You still can't tell? You'll just end up injuring the [Bishop] and your cute little [Pawn]

Scene skip

Jonas had his smartphone already and the number of Minato dialed in. They would need to call him in when this was over.

'Same as with the Mock one. But now, it's Issei. And the guy already had a beating. I don't see them winning this. Genius, let's hope I am wrong.'

Raynare slipped a hand on his own and the two remained calm.

'The game is not over yet. Have faith.'

But that was getting hard to do.

Scene skip

Yubelluna smiled at the [Pawn]. The smile showed on her face that she was ready to finish her off.

But then, she heard an order. She fell back and Issei had no idea why she had shown him such mercy.

The Dragon could only hold himself up and watch over the battlefield.

He began to ran as fast as his feet could carry him to the new school building.

"I need a Promotion. A [Queen]'s Piece." It changed and Issei knew this was the best, the only chance that he had.

'Wait for me. I swear that you'll win this game, Buchou.'

Rias had a tough time staying up. She had been pushed back by Riser, her clothes had been gone and her chest hung half free. Asia clung to her for dear life and in the hopes to keep her clothes on.

"Buchou, Issei Hyoudou has arrived!"

The [Queen] floated next to her Master and Riser smirked.

"Are you sure you want to handle this yourself?"

The [King] smirked and he knew exactly what he had to do.

"Yes, Riser believes it's the only way they'll understand."

Rias replied with another attack.

"Don't get ahead of yourself. You'll need to defeat me first!"

It was broken off and the flames brought back the fire.

"Oh, Rias. Riser knows every move. I can get you checkmate!"

"Shut up, Riser. Checkmate. Know my moves? Don't make me laugh. I, the [King], am still standing!"

Riser chuckled. "Oh, really? Very well, then. Let your [Pawn] fight."

Issei looked over to his master.

"Rias, I know this is your fight. But this has taken it's toll on you. Permission to engage Riser?"

Her inexperienced [Pawn] was her only and last shot on this. Asia wasn't sure if he could handle it but there was nothing left.

"Yes. Go ahead." The Dragon nodded to her and his feet began to move.

He ran up to the heir.

"Come on. Just one more [Boost!]"

At that point, the [Sacred Gear] made another sound.

[Burst!]

The [Pawn] lost his footing and stumbled from the roof.

"Issei!"

"Issei-san!"

In the clubroom, Sona and Tsubaki were informing the others about the witness of the incoming disaster.

"The [Boosted Gear] places an immense physical burden on the host. Incomparable to other kinds of [Sacred Gears]. Perhaps, I should say it's a miracle that he managed to withstand so many rounds of power boosts."

Jonas knew at that point, the game was lost.

"Great fucking time for that damned thing to give it up, right before the finish line."

All their hard work was for naught. He already had his phone open and sent a message.

Riser watched the [Pawn] in amusement.

"It's over."

The only thing that Rias could do was fire her attacks in frustration.

"Riser! You."

"Rias. Even you don't have that much magic left. Be honest and admit your loss."

The defiance in her eyes hadn't died down. Her emotional side wasn't over with this yet.

"I'm all right, Buchou!" I'll do everything I can to win!"

The blood came out of his mouth and Issei felt nauseous yet, he refused to go down.

"I'll become the strongest [Pawn]! I promised you! You put me through all the training for that!" Riser decided it was the point that he had to end this.

"You're almost dead!"

Issei knew that he wouldn't go down here.

"I can fight! I will keep my promise!"

The knee was driven in hard and Riser just enjoyed the show.

"I'll fight. I'm your [Pawn]." The boy croaked out while Riser just kept pushing him.

"I can still fight. I'll win." It was no longer a fight but a beating. Riser refused to end this fight.

It was a show, a display of cruelty.

Riser was going to massacre Issei.

"Issei, step back! Issei! Obey my order!"

Asia had gone mute from the battle and when she saw the brutality, she lost her consciousness.

The Dragon refused to back down.

"If it's for your smile,"

Rias thought back on what he told her during that night.

He would be the boy that would love her, regardless of rank and name.

"You bore me!"

Lifting Issei up by his hair, the face was black and blue. Riser had done a gruesome job.

"You're a mere subordinate, yet so you firmly oppose Riser Phenex!"

The fireball had grown in size and it was clear.

"Riser, what do you?"

The heir spoke with a disdain and love for blood.

"You know what! Riser respects his feelings and will burn him down to the point he can't be saved. Deaths that occur during Rating Games are considered accidents, after all."

The look in Issei's eyes showed the defiance that he learned from Rias.

"Bastard! Burn!"

It was no longer a fireball but an inferno.

"Issei! Please! Riser, stop!"

She threw her arms around the Phenex and spoke the words to lose the game but save Issei's life.

"I lost. I'm resigning." Tears were running down her face as the flames died. Issei fell down from the rooftop. He watched how his beautiful master was hugged by Riser.

"Checkmate." Riser smiled as he hugged the heiress.

Issei watched in disbelief.

'Buchou. Why?'

[Rias-sama's resignation confirmed. Riser Phenex-sama wins this game.]

Then everything went black for Issei.

Scene skip

After Issei slid down from the rooftop, Minato asked Musubi Kusano out of the room. Just like Jonas, he knew what the score was. He did not want his youngest Sekirei to watch the beating.

Not that the others in his Flock were doing any better.

Kazehana had her mouth covered in horror, the Thunder Twins had a hard time holding their tears back, Matsu had turned away as she could no longer bear the match.

Uzume and Kagari had seen fights but none the likes of what Riser had done to Issei. They were just as horrified.

Akitsu's emotionless mask was cracking. It hadn't yet but the same couldn't be said from Haihane and Benitsubasa who had shared the same expression. They were frightened by the match.

Yume and Miya were only stone-faced due to the fact that some had to keep their expressions up. Internally, they had a hard time seeing the fight.

Minato had hoped they could have turn it around. That they could win this Game. Yet, the Ashikabi had to face the fact.

Rias was not ready for it.

The silence was broken by a phone call. With the Game ending, services were cut and sounds came back in.

Minato had a half a heart to block it but when he saw Jonas name on it, he knew this was one call he had to take.

The first words that Minato heard, were something that brought him hope.

"We need a plan."

---

I checked the date when I started this fic. Nearly two months. That is due to the requester being quiet for a long time and it's sporadic when he doesn't reply.

I also started to write "Harem of the White Saint" during that time and I finished that before I worked this over.

Both were finished at the same time though. One good day of writing this chapter out.

The funny part is that I have done the Rating Game for the third time now.

First time with "En Route to a better life" last year, the previous time in March for "Harem of the White Saint" and now, here again.

But this time, it didn't end as well as the previous Rating Games.

I needed a bit more to switch it up.

The right time to cut it off at nearly 20K in words.

The next update won't take that long.

23rd of September, it'll be here soon enough.

I also went to see Iron Maiden when I was writing this.

Hard to believe they are pushing 60.

Saluut.