A/N: Hello and welcome to chapter 9 of Road of Domination.
This chapter like said in the last one is going to be a Rematch between Issei and Risser though there would be a few flashbacks before it.
I hope you enjoy it.
"" normal talk
'' thinking
() Elsha talking in his mind
[] Ddraig
I don't own DxD all right's go to it creator.
Rematch Dragon vs Phoenix
It's been a few hours after the game between the Houses of Gremory and Phoenix.
While mostly everyone in the Gremory peerage was healed and rested. Only the Pawn of the peerage was still unconscious after the beating he has gotten from Riser. With their Ace in the hole in bed sleeping, the peerage decided to start preparing for the hated marriage party that they had to attend.
"Do you think Issei will be alright?" Akeno asked as she entered Issei's room to bring some food for Grayfia who was patiently sitting in one of the chairs in the room.
"Yes, you don't need to be worried about him Akeno. He will be alright, he did take some serious damage and exhausted himself from the fight. Thank you for the food." Grayfia replied as she gracefully took the food and thanked the Queen of Rias for it.
"It's no problem Grayfia. Thank you for keeping an eye on him. We appreciate it." Akeno spoke as she bowed to the Strongest Queen and exited the room leaving both Issei and Grayfia alone.
As Grayfia continued to watch over Issei while eating the food she got from Rias Queen. She couldn't help but remembered what she was told by her sister-in-law about the Red Dragon Emperor. She trusted Rias but the way she acquired him didn't make sense to her. It was as it was all set up too perfectly to be the truth. And she was worried that what might did happened was the worst case.
(Flashback)
As Rias was reading over some papers related to the Devil business she suddenly felt a magic circle forming in her clubroom. Seeing it belonged to her clan she expected it to be from either her brother or his wife. Which moments later showed that she was right as the latter appeared through it wearing her normal maid outfit.
"Grayfia, it's nice to see you. How are you been doing?" Rias asked not showing her uncomfortableness that she felt at seeing her.
"Rias, it's also nice seeing you. I'm good though I'm here on the orders from your brother to tell you that you have less than 2 months to prepare for Riser. He started to pressure for the marriage." Grayfia explained seeing Rias flinch and starting to get angry at the message.
"I thought that I still had time till that cursed marriage!" Rias shouted to no one in particular as she was getting even angrier at the thought of her and Riser.
"Yes you did, but Riser along with the Elders are pushing this."
"Well, I do have someone in my peerage that will force Riser into the Rating game and Riser will lose to him." Rias confidently said to the maid.
"And who do you have that can beat him?" Maid asked not knowing who in the Rias peerage was strong enough to beat Riser.
"That's easy, I have found Red Dragon Emperor, and he is now my servant." Rias told her in the voice full of pride and confidence.
Grayfia hearing that Rias has acquired the legendary beast had her eyes wide for a second before she got her shock under wraps. Though, that begged the question on how she was able to convince the Heavenly Dragon to become her servant. It was common knowledge that Dragons loved their freedom.
"And how did you managed to get him to become your servant?" Grayfia questioned her sister-in-law.
Rias clearly didn't expect Grayfia to question it, sweating a little bit, Rias quickly lied in a convincing voice.
"When I found him in school, I approached him and asked him to come to my clubroom. After that, I explained to him that I could sense a great power within him and that he would be approached by other supernatural beings and that he would be in danger. After he understood it, I convinced him to join my peerage which he accepted. And from then on, it's all history." Rias quickly lied to her, hoping that Grayfia will buy it.
Grayfia for her part just nodded, but it was something about what Rias said that made her suspicious. She knew that Rias was like a mother to her peerage but she also knows to well that Rias was too prideful to go out of her way to warn some human being, even if it had a powerful aura around him. She could only hope that she didn't do anything stupid to the Red Dragon Emperor because that would be catastrophic. But for now, she would accept her words.
With all said and done Grayfia excused herself and left, leaving Rias to sigh in relief at the close bullet that she dodged.
(Flashback End)
As Grayfia was eating her food she suddenly heard a grunting sound coming from Issei's bed. Lifting her head a little, Grayfia saw Issei sitting up and looking around a little confused.
"I see that you have awoken Issei, that's good." Grayfia told him making him turn his head around to look at her.
"Where am I?" Was all Issei could say as he was still confused about his surroundings.
"You are in your room Issei, I brought you here to after your injuries were healed at the infirmary." Grayfia answered him as he looked around his room before returning his gaze at the maid.
"I see, so what happens now? Ddraig told me that Rias surrendered to that bastard." Issei spoke, his voice full of hatred.
"I was assigned to give you this pamphlet when you woke up, so you could get to the party." Grayfia spoke as she handed him a pamphlet with the Gremory's magic circular.
"Hmm, what do you need of me Grayfia?" Issei asked as he took the paper from the maid.
"I'm here more as a messenger Issei, my master said to tell you this "If you wish to free my sister, crash the party." those were his words Issei, the party is in 3 days." Grayfia told him as she prepared a circle to go but was stopped when she heard Issei say something that made her widen her eyes.
"Hell no, I'm not going to help that murderous bitch that let me die for her own gain." Issei mumbled to himself but to Grayfia it was loud and clear.
Turning around Grayfia looked at Issei who was still holding the paper she gave him however his eyes were full of hatred and if you looked closely you would have seen his eyes turning from his brown to Ddraig's green. She felt pity for the boy as she remembered that her own sister was in serious trouble that might end up terrible for her. So she decided to stay a little longer and see why he said what he said.
"Issei, what do you mean about letting you die?" She softly asked him making him flinch a little at that since he forgotten that Grayfia was still here.
Issei looked up from the pamphlet he was given with a sigh and gestured for Grayfia to take a sit which she did as he started to explain what he meant.
"Did Rias ever tell you that I was Red Dragon Emperor before the "that night"?" Issei asked.
Nodding her head she replayed him. "Yes, two months before the Rating game she said that she gained a Red Dragon Emperor as her servant."
"And did she mention how she had gained him?" Issei questioned feeling his blood slightly starting to boil from anger.
"She told me that she found you at school and she approached you and asked you to come to the clubroom where she explained everything to you and where you accepted to become her servant." Grayfia told him what Rias said to her about him.
Issei was at first shock then his shocked vanished with it being replaced with extreme rage about the lie she used to tell Grayfia. His eyes started to turn green as his aura flared out making his house shake from it alone. Even though Grayfia was way stronger than him, she was still in awe at the power that Issei had in him. The moment Issei's aura exploded she knew that what Rias told her was a lie and now she knew that she was going to hear the truth and she would like it.
It took a few minutes for Issei to calm himself before telling Grayfia the truth of how she gained him.
"That bitch I should kill her now!" Issei whispered to himself but was again heard by Grayfia.
"As much as you want to kill her, you can't Issei, you would become stray and then be hunt down till your dead." Grayfia told him. She knew that her master and husband would kill Issei in a flash if he hurt her let alone kill her.
"I know that, but still." He sighs heavily before taking a deep breath calming himself.
"Know this Grayfia, what she told you was a complete lie. What she did, w-was letting me get killed by my date and then swooping in and reviving me. If she did what she told you I would have gladly accepted her offer of becoming a Devil. But she didn't go down that path, so you can understand why I'm not going to help her and I don't give a flying fuck about her. I hope she suffers." Issei explained to her in the shortest version he could, he still had nightmares from that date.
Grayfia was in complete shock when she heard his story, she now understood why he was completely against helping Rias and if Sirzechs did that to her she would have ripped his head off. Though Issei's next words gave her small hope for both him and her sister.
"All I ever wanted was to be loved by someone. I know I'm a huge pervert but still, what I went through on that day was something I wouldn't wish even my worst enemy the White Dragon. I swore over my friend's dead body that I will not be manipulated ever again. And I still stand to that, the only reason I fought Riser was so that I would be closer to getting to High class and breaking free from her, and I hate guys like him even if he was like me not too long ago."
Grayfia just stood there and listened to him as he let all of his emotions out. Issei was an emotional person she could see that clearly, so she just stepped closer to him and before he could do anything she embraced him in a warm hug.
"Let it all out Issei, I can see that you are still hurt from what she did, I know it's hard but you have to keep going if you ever want to break loose from her." Grayfia told him in a soft and warm voice that made Issei cry.
He was emotionally in such mess that he needed to tell someone how he felt and let all of it out of his system. Grayfia understood this so she put it on herself to be his support until he was ready to move on. Issei cried in her embraced for nearly ten minutes before managing to get control over himself.
"S-sorry Grayfia for seeing me like this… and for ruining your outfit." Issei apologized to the maid as he tried to get himself out of Grayfia's grip, but she wouldn't let him.
"Issei, what would you do if I told you that there is one person that is in similar pain that you are in. That the person is so emotionally in chaos that it nearly sent her to insanity?" Grayfia softly asked still holding tightly to Issei. Trying to see what would be his reaction to her question.
Issei, hearing that immediately answered her without thinking. He was that kind of the guy, he would always help anyone in need without question.
"I would do whatever it takes to help that person."
When Grayfia heard his reply causing her to smile at him and tightened her grip on him.
"Issei, I am going to tell you a story about that person, and I hope that you would truly help her since she desperately needs it."
Nodding his head, Grayfia released him and motioned for him to sit as she took the chair she was sitting in not too long ago.
"What I'm about to tell you Issei is the story about my little sister and what made her almost go insane. No one knows's about it and I hope you will keep what I tell you to yourself." Grayfia told him in a serious tone that made it clear to him that if word about her got out he would be in unimaginable pain.
Issei gulped a little hearing her tone but he never the less nodded which made Grayfia smile again.
"Well, this all happened during the Devils Civil war..."
(Flashback)
It was moments before the final battle of the war. Both sides were gathering their troops in position for the showdown that would finally end this needless bloodshed and bring peace to the realm of the Devils.
On one side of the Battlefield was the Old Satan Faction which was led by descendants of the original Maou's and on the opposing side was the Anti-Satan Faction lead by the strongest Devils alive. The location for the battle was non-other than the capital of the Devils Lilith.
As the battle started both sides pushed for supremacy in both land and air, the casualties were horrendous, so much so that even the largest battle in Human history, the Battle of Kursk was like a skirmish in comparison. Millions upon millions dead on both sides.
During the Battle of Lilith as it was called. Two siblings were fighting against two other people. One of the two that the siblings fought was non-other than their older sister Grayfia while the other was a red haired man that looked to be in his late twenties.
"Grayfia, I didn't know that you could fall so low that you sided with the traitors. Do we mean anything to you big sis?" One of the siblings asked. He was a tall handsome looking youth in his early twenties with long silver hair that went to a ponytail and red eyes. He was wearing a silver suit with some accessories.
"That's not true Euclid. I realized that if the descendants win there wouldn't be any of us anymore. They will make the Devils go extinct and that is one thing I don't want dear brother." Grayfia replied as she blocked an attack from the other sibling that was a girl that looked like she was in her late teen year with short silver hair with light purple tone to it and dark blue eyes that were full of rage directed towards her sister for abandoning their cause.
"That doesn't matter big sis, our clan gave full loyalty to Lucifer and his clan. And you side with the enemy of his, that makes you our enemy now." The girl told Grayfia as she attacked her again only for the red hair man to block it.
"Now, now Lucy I thought that you are smarter than this." The red hair man told the girl.
"You, Sirzechs shut up! If it wasn't for you, both my brother and I wouldn't have to battle our own sister!" Lucy yelled as she started bombarding the duo with all she had in her. All of her rage went into her attacks that consisted of Ice and Lightning, her most powerful elements.
The attack caught both Grayfia and Sirzechs by surprise. They knew that Lucy was powerful and to take her down they would need a bit more power than any ordinary High-class Devil. They both put their strongest barriers up to block her bombardment as it was going on, each hit on the barrier made a small crack in it.
Thankfully to both members of the Anti-Satan Faction, the relentless attack stopped before it could break through their defense. While the attack left Lucy exhausted for overusing her magic powers.
Quickly using her exhausted state, Sirzechs send his attack at her hoping to put her out of commission and then battle Euclid without worrying about Lucy. But to both Grayfia's and Lucy's shock Euclid position himself in front of Lucy and took the attack head on which caused a huge explosion to erupt where he stood that send Lucy flying back a good 20 meters.
As the debris was clearing it left the two girls in horror. Where Euclid stood now was only a 10-meter wide crater with no trace of Euclid to be found, as if he never existed. Seeing that Grayfia started crying as Lucy stood there shocked to the core, with the loss of her big brother she was left broken and just surrendered with no will to fight anymore.
(Flashback End)
"After that battle. Lucy was imprisoned as a prisoner of war. Though a few months later she was released but she is still unwilling to do anything and she is almost always locked in our clan's estate where she rarely leaves it. She is now like a shell, all life left her that day." Grayfia finished her story with a sad smile.
Issei just listened to the story and was shocked at what he heard. He couldn't even imagine how it must have been for both girls to see their brother get killed in front of them. So Issei just stood up and hugged Grayfia tightly surprising her.
"Is there any way to help your sister come out of her shell?" He softly asked her, making Grayfia's eyes widen at his question.
"I, honestly don't know Issei, I hope there is." She replied.
Nodding Issei just released her and turned around looking at the pamphlet he was still holding.
"What would you say Grayfia? If I could help your sister. Would you help me get free from Rias?" He questioned turning around to look at the maid of the Gremory. The look of determination in his eyes gave her hope that he just might be able to help her.
Without hesitation, she nodded with a smile. "You have my word that I would support and help you in any way I can." That answer made Issei smile.
"Then we have a deal Grayfia. I will help Rias to get out of this marriage and will do whatever I can to help Lucy. And you will help me get away from Rias."
"That is acceptable Issei Hyoudou. Now then I'll take my leave, remember you have only three days before the party. Use them well." With that said Grayfia teleported away.
When Grayfia left Ddraig and Elsha decided to speak with Issei.
[That went better than expected. If I would say so myself] Ddraig voiced his opinion on the deal Issei made with the maid.
(Yes, I'm also surprised at what she told you Issei. And that she accepted the deal you suggest.) Elsha added her 2 cents also.
"Same here, but from what we heard I wouldn't be surprised at that, I would also seek help for my sibling without a question." As he started to remember what he was told from Grayfia.
(Fair enough. Now though both Ddraig and I made your training schedule.) Elsha told him, making Issei snap back to reality.
"You did?"
[Yes, we did partner, the schedule is as such. While awake you will do the following: Run for 10km with weighted clothes, then do a series of exercises and final that would help you increase your stamina and physical strength.] Ddraig started the training program of thing that Issei would do in the next three days.
(But when you go to sleep, we will pull you into the gear and train you in both magic, fire breath, and combat so you can beat that Riser guy.) Elsha finished explaining the program that was planned.
"Well, that does sound good. And I can't wait to start. So let's go." Issei told both his partners in the voice full of excitement and joy. He was close to getting at that bastard who almost killed him. Oh, he could barely contain himself from excitement at the thought of kicking his butt.
[That's the spirit Partner. We will show those little Devils not to mess with us Dragons.] Ddraig roared with bloodlust as he was like Issei barely containing himself for some bird hunting.
Seeing this Elsha just sighed to herself, it looked like she would need to be the one to put the two in line. But being a warrior herself, she could understand their view and their excitement for the battle. But for now, she needed to bring both the dragon and the host to their senses.
(Now, now as much as I would also like to tear that bird to pieces. We need you Ise to train so you could be as strong as possible before kicking his butt. And Ddraig I know that you are battle hungry but could you wait for it at least a few more days?) Elsha told them both bringing them back to reality.
[Yes, you are right as always Elsha. Though in my defense I didn't hunt those birds for centuries so you can understand my bloodlust.] Ddraig told her getting a nod of understanding from the second strongest user of BOOSTER GEAR.
"Sorry."
(No problem you two, but now Issei go and do what we told you, and when you go to sleep we will train you more.) Elsha instructed Issei as he just nodded and run outside to start his training.
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After the full day of training, Issei was ready to go to sleep. He was surprised to see that no one from Rias peerage was present all day, not even her. But that only made him feel better as he was able to train in peace and talk to both Ddraig and Elsha without interference from the annoying Rias.
As he laid in bed and started to drift off to sleep he was immediately pulled into the Sacred Gear by no other than Elsha and Ddraig. Opening his eyes, Issei saw that he was on a meadow filled with all kinds of vegetation. It looked like Heaven as the nature and aura around it were peaceful and calm.
He was brought back to his senses when he heard a giggle coming from his right. Turning around he was meet with the sight that made him start to blush viciously, leaning against the tree was Elsha. She was wearing a crimson top with v-cut that showed some of her breasts with a pink skirt and black shoes, her long blond hair was tied up into the ponytail. In Issei's eyes, she looked even more prettier than before.
Seeing his face made Elsha giggle even more. She was enjoying the look on his face, she knew from Ddraig that he was a massive pervert and that he was trying to suppress it but getting a reaction from him was priceless to her.
"Now Ise, I know that you are enjoying the view but I brought you here to train." Elsha told him with a smirk that only grew when his eyes widened before he quickly turn around still red.
"Y-yeah you did, so what are we going to do?" Issei asked in a shy voice, still too embarrassed to look at her.
"Now, now my little Ise, you don't have to be embarrassed at all, you are doing well in keeping that side in you. Though if you wanna take me on a date, you have to work a bit harder you know." Elsha told him in a sweet voice before winking at him in the end.
"Y-y-yeah" Issei barely told her as he felt blood dripping from his nose and a little light headed that the girl like her that surpass any model would say that so easily to him.
Giggling a bit, Elsha composed herself before becoming serious. "Now Issei, first I will show the basics of Norse and Slavic magic, they are known for being really powerful and can be destructive in the right hands" Elsha explained as she created a small orb of magical energy that made Issei a little scared.
"What is that Elsha?" He asked scared as he sensed the power in that small orb.
"You don't have to worry Issei, this is only a sample of the magic from both sides, while both are powerful individually combined they are deadly if you know how to use them." She explained to him in a tender voice with a warm smile that made Issei blush a little bit.
"So how can I do similar things like you?" He asked
"Yes, though you will need time, I will start expanding your reserves slowly." She said as she sits on the ground and motioned to Issei to also sit.
With him complying of what he was told by Elsha, she started expanding his magic reserves and telling him all about magic and how to improve it.
xxxxxxx
As they were training in magic. Issei found a lot of interesting things about Elsha.
She told him that she was High-class form birth, born between Russian Boyar that served the Emperor and the Norwegian Valkyrie. Her great affinity for magic and her understanding of battle tactics and strategy made her great ally to both Pantheons. So to prevent the war over her it was decided by both leaders of the Pantheons that Elsha would become champion of both Odin and Perun.
With that decided she was constantly trained in both Norse and Slavic magic and combat skills. While she was training she would be given missions by both factions to do, so she could gain battle experience which later was proven critical as she helped Russians in their struggles against Ottomans and Norse countries against the Holy Roman Empire. Though she also did supernatural missions like assassinations and/or being an ambassador for both factions.
As their time for training was nearing its end, Elsha decided to make Issei do one last thing before ending it.
"Now Issei, I will show you something that could be useful to you in the future. So close your eyes and concentrate hard and try to manifest your gear here and then enter it. I will help you in this." Elsha told him in her calm and sweet voice.
Nodding, Issei did what he was instructed but even after 5 minutes, he couldn't go past the bringing his gear. So Elsha decided to give him a little magic boost. Taking his hands in hers ignoring his insecurity, she started concentrating and transferring small bursts of magic to him. Issei would lie if he did say that he didn't enjoy Elsha holding his hands. Her soft and gentle skin, her soft smile and warm, voice her killer body, the big breast was really turning Issei on and his blush becomes the even more crimson if possible.
He was barely controlling himself from groping her or pinning her down. But he also knew that even if he could gain an advantage of surprise it would only last shorter than a second before Elsha would beat the shit out of him. So for now, until become stronger he would wait and hope that maybe there is a chance to bring her back to life. But that didn't mean that he couldn't check her out and make a genuine scan of her features.
"ISSEI! Concentrate, I know that you are a highly hormonal teen, but this for your own good." Elsha scolded him a little seeing him check her out. Not that she minded at all, she knew what effect she had on him and she knew that he was in puberty, but for now she needed him to focus.
"S-s-sorry." Issei apologies bowing his head down hoping that she wasn't mad at him.
Though Elsha just smiled at him. He was way too honest and innocent. Even if he was a perv, he didn't try to lie to her about it. That was one of the things that she started to like about him. His honesty and his will, she saw the game that he fought against Riser and she was genuinely surprised that he was that strong even though he managed to unlock his gear only 2 months ago.
"Don't worry Ise, I'm not mad, but I need you to focus and after that, you will take a short break and go to Ddraig for more training. Okay, sweetie?" She told him gently as she stroke his cheek giggling a little as she saw his face turn from red to white at the mention of Ddraig and training in an instant.
Calming himself a little bit he nodded and continued to do what he was again instructed. After few more attempts he finally able to enter it. What he saw was all a blur but before he could continue to focus on it, he was thrown out of it.
Opening his eyes he saw that Elsha had a big grin on her beautiful face. Raising an eyebrow only made Elsha laugh.
"Ufufuf that was a good attempt Ise, I'm proud of you, you managed to be in it for 10 seconds. I honestly expected you to be there for 2-3 max."
"Why did you want me to do it anyway? It was hard as hell doing it." Issei said as he felt exhausted.
"Ufufuf that's for me to know and you sweetie to find out." Elsha replied in a sing-song tone with a wink that made Issei red.
"O-okay Elsha."He stated nervously a little bit feeling his blush worsen.
"Now Ise, it's time to go and training with Ddraig. Good luck you will need it and have fun." Was the last thing Elsha said before snapping her fingers sending Issei towards Ddraig. Issei saw the mischievous smile she had when she told him that final part causing him pale knowing that his partner was a battle maniac.
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Training with Ddraig proved to be just like Issei had imagination. He would get scorched, bruised, sent flying around, screaming in pain and nearly dead. Though just like Elsha said, when he woke up he didn't feel tired or injured. But he could still felt the pain he felt in the mindscape and that made him flinch every now and then just from the though.
As his remaining days, until the wedding night passed by, he felt that he still needed more power before he was ready to get at that damned Phoenix that nearly murdered him in the game.
As the time of the party neared closer, Issei decided to ask Ddraig and Elsha if there is anything else that he could do to gain even just a bit more power to defeat that bird.
(There is Ise a way to gain more power but...) Elsha started to answer him until she trailed of letting Ddraig finish it.
[But Partner you will need to sacrifice a part of your body for me to feed you more of my power. But it will also make you even more vulnerable to Dragon slaying items and magic.] Ddraig finished it making Issei widen his eyes.
"So...if I want to beat that damned Fired Chicken I need to give you a part of my body?" Issei questioned wanting to confirm what Elsha and his partner told him.
(Yes Issei, if you want to beat him you need to give a part as an offering to Ddraig. That will give you enough power to enter Balance-Breaker and beat him. But know this, when you do this there is no turning back from it, think about it carefully Ise. Also, note that when you do that you will start getting greater friends and enemies even more and quicker since your Dragon aura would strengthen.) Elsha explain it to him.
Issei started thinking about what both of them told him. Even though he didn't want to do it, to gain more power this way, he knew that it was necessary to win. If he was honest with himself he would much prefer to win it with his own power but he knew that at this point in time that it was impossible. But if he won, he would be a step closer to his freedom and maybe down the line he would be able to help someone else break free from the chains that locked her away. Sure gaining new even more powerful enemies is very bad but the extra power could help a lot more in the long run.
Seeing more pros than cons Issei decided to go whit it.
"Ddraig what part of my body you want?" Issei asked finally.
(Ise, are you 100% sure about this?) Elsha questioned.
"Yes, Elsha. I decided, I thought-out all of the pros and cons and honestly, there is a lot more pros than cons in the long run." He answered her before he again asked his dragon. "So partner have you decided which part?"
With a heavy sigh, Ddraig told him [Your left arm, Issei Hyoudou. That's the payment, I, Ddraig, the RED DRAGON EMPEROR want for the power I will grant you.]
(Issei you need to formally say… I, Issei Hyoudou, wielder of the BOOSTER GEAR accept your demand Ddraig, the RED DRAGON EMPEROR.) Elsha explained the rest of the procedure to him.
Nodding his head Issei repeated what Elsha told him.
"I, Issei Hyoudou, wielder of the BOOSTER GEAR accept you demand Ddraig, the RED DRAGON EMPEROR".
[Very well, my power is now at your disposal.]
When Ddraig finished his sentence Issei felt his power skyrocket, he felt like he could conquer the whole word with.
[Just to inform you, Partner, you are now able to enter the Balance-Breaker, but there is a catch you can only stay in it for 10s max.] Ddraig informed him getting Issei's attention. Though what Ddraig didn't tell him, was that he was already at the point where he could enter his Balance-Breaker. Though he hoped that if he pushed hard enough, Issei's emotions will unlock it.
"R-really Ddraig? Can I use it now?" Issei asked stunned that the legendary move was now within hand's reach.
[Yes, Partner. But remember to beat the bird you need to break his spirit or to exhaust him to the point where his regeneration won't work.] Ddraig remained him.
(Issei, I could help you in that, though I would also need payment for granting this to you.) Elsha suddenly spoke making Issei and Ddraig stunned.
"You can? Though what is the payment?" Issei asked.
(It's really simple actually, but I will tell you about it after the fight. Though do I have your word that you will keep the promise of doing whatever I ask for a payment?) Elsha told him.
"I shall keep my promise Elsha, I will do anything that you ask of me." He answered firmly and honestly making Elsha smile.
(Very good Ise. When the time comes I will give you enough strength to beat the Chicken.)
"Alrighty then it's time to crash the party, beat the crap out of that Fried Chicken and save that bitch from him." Issei shouted as he pumps his fist upright.
Taking the pamphlet that Grayfia game him, Issei flared out a little bit of his power making the magic circular appear under him teleporting him to the place of the party in a flash of light that made him close his eyes.
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As soon as he opened his eyes, Issei was speechless at what he saw. In front of him was a HUGE European Castle that had massive stone walls with also massive watchtowers that dominated everything except the Castles main building its self.
'Wow, look at this place it's MASSIVE!' Issei thought as he entered the compounds of the Castle.
While making his way towards the main building he realized that he was in the Phoenix territory. They had many sculptures of the legendary bird all in pure gold with fire coming out of their mouths, pictures of many heads of the House of Phoenix, though when they were getting closer to the chamber where the wedding was to happen, all three of them saw something that made their blood boil.
It was a picture of the Great War from what the trio could tell, but what made their anger skyrocket was that in it was shown a non-other than Ddraig in his former full glory fatally stabbed by a spear of fire that went from one side all the way through the other with his blood all around the ground. If Issei's anger was huge than Ddraig's was EXTREMELY MASSIVE. Issei was terrified as he felt his partner anger, he could practically fell Ddraig fighting himself to control the rage he got from the picture. Issei quickly jumped and tear the picture into pieces getting a thank you from the Heavenly Dragon.
Getting closer to the chamber Issei was meet with a few dozen guards that were position to guard the entrance of the party so no one could interfere. But to Issei, it was all but a nuisance as he manifested his gear and charged at them.
xxxxxx
As the little battle for the entrance to the party was underway, in the Grand Chamber many High-class devils and Heads of the remaining Pillars, their peerages, and Maou's were seen talking and enjoying the party and what would happen soon. Both Risers and Rias peerage were present, though while one group was happy the other was very depressed at the thought of their master marring that pig. Though all of them were unaware that soon they will meet a very pissed of Dragon that was in a rage and off for blood.
Soon enough Riser appeared in an elegant and formal clothing with a white suit with red accessories, white paints, and black shoes. Getting everyone attention as he walks a little bit forward before speaking. "Hello everyone, I Riser Phoenix, welcome you all to this great marriage between both the House of Phoenix and House of Gremory. Now I will introduce you to my beautiful future wife." with a snap of his fingers, Rias Gremory appeared in all her glory in white wedding dressed with white gloves that went all the way to her forearms with crimson high a huge applaud and cheers from the mass of people.
But suddenly it stopped as they heard screams coming from the other side of the double doors. Before anyone could question what was happening, the double doors were destroyed in a massive explosion that ripped through the room making a huge smoke screen. Many were wondering what happened, elders and heads of the other pillars were demanding an explanation from the Phoenix members but before they could answer, a cold voice cut them short.
"Damn guards I told them to stay out of my way, oh well they won't bother me anymore." The voice spoke.
"Who are you? What are you doing here? Can't you see that there is a special event going on?" Riser shouted to the figure only getting an energy blast to his cheest as an answer to his questions making him grunt a little as he hit the wall behind him from the blast. Riser got to his feet wiping a small amount of blood from his lip before he regenerated like nothing happened.
"You damned Fried Chicken shut up! Or the next attack is going to your head and I won't go easy on it like previously!" Issei yelled as the smoke cleared letting people in the room see him with his gear out.
"You peasant, what are you doing here, how did you come here in the first place?" Riser shouted again which made Issei create an orb of energy in his hand readying his attack again.
"I'm here to take back Rias Gremory and if it means I need to beat your shitty ass then I will do it! You belong in a KFC anyways!" Issei shouted making some of them gasp and others to get angry at the insult particularly Riser.
Though when Rias saw Issei, she let alone tear fall at the thought of him coming to her rescue while all of the members of the ORC surrounded Issei to stop any guard that might try and stop him. Seeing them Issei stopped gathering energy for his attack.
"Ufufuf Issei, nice of you to come, hope you don't mind our little help." Akeno told him in her sadistic tone as lightning was dancing around her fingers.
"Nice to see you come also Issei." Kiba also greeted him as he created two swords in his hands.
"You're late." Was Koneko's greeting to him though he saw that she was grateful that he came to help Rias.
"Finally you showed your lazy ass here you weakling." Raynare told him making him sweatdrop.
"Sorry to keep you waiting guys, I needed to take care of some annoying pets down the hall." Issei replied to them as she scratches his head a little bit.
"Everyone stand down." A calm voice full of power and authority told them as everyone stopped and released their weapons and magic.
The owner of the voice was a tall and handsome red haired man with soft blue eyes. He was wearing what Issei could guest a royal armor. He could almost immediately say that he was like a Rias only a male version of her and with a fuck tone more power.
"Lord Sirzechs Lucifer, what is the meaning of this?" One of the elders spoke not liking the idea of a Maou interfering.
"It's really simple actually. I very much enjoyed a Rating Game between both Riser and my little sister. Though I would say that the finish was a little anti-climactic. It was still a good match though." Sirzechs told them simply clearly hiding what his intentions were.
"So Lord Lucifer, you say that the match between both Rias and Riser was all for nothing?" Riser questioned.
"No, no the match was for real Riser and I applaud you for your power and your extremely good use of it. It would be bad if a Maou said that the result of it wasn't good, it would look bad to the older generation." Sirzechs smoothly told him.
"Then what are you saying Sirzechs?" Another red haired man told him making Sirzechs turn to him with a small barely noticeable smirk.
"Like I said father, I plan on making this event even more spectacular. Tell me what is better than a battle between a Phoenix and Dragon?" He asked his father.
Seeing his father nod after thinking a little bit made Sirzechs make a small smile before turning back to Issei and Riser.
"You boy, what is your name?" He asked in a voice still full of authority but it wasn't harsh it was soft and warm.
Nodding Issei replied the man. "My name is Issei Hyoudou, a student of the Kuoh Academy, the current Red Dragon Emperor, and Pawn of Rias Gremory."
"Hmm... Very well Issei, what are your intentions for coming here?" Sirzechs asked while faking his curiosity which little surprised Issei.
'He is a good actor, I will give him that.' Issei thought as he decided to play this little game.
"It's simple Lord Lucifer. I'm here to bring Rias Gremory back, its boring back home without her being there. And I'm sure that she could find a better husband than this fried chicken." Issei replied with a small bow at the end not missing a small smirk coming from the red haired man.
"Hmm...Riser what do you say about showing us one last time the beautiful power at your disposal? It would make this evening even more entertaining for both people here and Rias and me." Sirzechs asked with a little narrowed eyes daring him to refuse.
Seeing that look Riser sweat dropped a little bit before nodding. "If the great Lord Lucifer asks than Riser would be more than happy to make his final show of power."
Giving him a nod Sirzechs turned to Issei and asked something that shocked all the people in the hall. "Issei Hyoudou, what would you like if you win this little match? It could be anything you desire. Power, woman, peerage, gold."
"Lord what are you saying? How can you do this?" An Elder shouted in rage seeing what Sirzechs was doing.
"What? I asked him to fight for the entertainment for my little sister's wedding party, so it's only reasonable that we give him something in return." He answered in laid back voice before returning his attention to Issei.
Issei honestly would very much would have like to just get his freedom back, but that would do more harm than good right now and he made a deal with Grayfia so he won't turn his back on her now.
"While that is all nice and attractive what you told Lord Lucifer, I ask that when I beat him you give Rias Gremory freedom back and make it so that she won't be thrown into another marriage agreement without her consent." Issei replied getting a nod of acceptance from the red haired Maou.
"Good that could be achieved, of course, if you win Issei Hyoudou. Now let's get this battle started." Sirzechs told him as he snapped his finger teleporting everyone at the battlefield that resembled a ring with four king pieces on four corners.
xxxxxx
In the middle of the field, Issei and Riser stood glaring at each other. Issei was still in his school uniform while Riser changed in his fighting attire with a long white sleeved shirt with a V neck that showed his chest and black pants with also black shoes.
"You peasant you will pay for this. Riser will destroy you." Riser told him in treating tone as he took his stance.
Issei however completely ignored him as he turned to Rias. "Permission to promote?" he asked getting a nod form teary eyed Rias.
Nodding Issei also took his stance as the gear appeared and started boosting him.
'You can do this Ise' was all that members of the ORC thought at the same moment. Watching what their comrade would do and hoping for the best.
Grayfia suddenly appeared in between them making it clear that she would be a referee in this battle just like in the Rating Game.
"I, Grayfia Lucifuge will be the referee for this match, if I see anything that goes against the rules I will intervene and the one who broke the rules will automatically lose, is this understood?" Grayfia said to both males only getting a nod as a response.
Nodding back, Grayfia announced something that shocked Issei and ORC members. "This will be a one-on-one battle between Lord Riser and Issei Hyoudou the Red Dragon Emperor, the stakes are as such, should Riser win Issei Hyoudou would be immediately transferred to Phoenix family and the marriage would go through without questions, but should Issei Hyoudou win the marriage would be dissolved and Rias Gremory would be free from any other married agreements in the future."
Getting over his shock Issei steadied himself before the battle of his life.
"Now, without any further ado, let the battle begin!" Grayfia said as she teleported away.
"Promotion Queen!" Issei shouted as soon as Grayfia left feeling power swelling in his blood as he started to get his surprise underway.
"Riser would be worried if you were given three to six months more to train but in this state, However Riser will crush you with ease." Riser told him as he stood his ground waiting for Issei to attack him.
"You know you are right about that, I'm not genius with magic like Akeno, I'm not expert with a sword like Kiba, nor am I good with pure strength like Koneko or with healing like Raynare but you know what? I don't care that I'm not good in any of that. I will show you what happens when you try to kill and insult the Heavenly Dragon. DO IT DDRAIG!" Issei spoke his voice was in the being normal but it ended in a powerful roar that scared most of the audience.
"Riser this is what you unleashed, hope you are happy. Welsh Dragon Balance-Breaker: Scale Mail!" Issei roared full of bloodlust that was enhanced by Ddraig.
[WELSH DRAGON, OVERBOOSTER!] Ddraig roared as he also started fueling Issei strength even further.
As soon as the Devils heard the announcement coming from both Ddraig and Issei they knew that Riser was fucked. He may be strong but again it's the titanic powers now at Issei's command it was like trying to push the mountain. The red flash of light erupted were Issei stood blocking everyone's sight of him.
As the light finally died out, everyone was shocked at what they saw. Issei was in red draconic armor that looked intimidating to look at. There were 6 green gems 2 on his hands and one on each of his knees, his draconic helmet had two green eyes that made him even more frightening to anyone that faced him.
"T-that's a forbidden move." One of the elders said in shock.
Hearing that even the four Maou's paid close attention to the battle waiting to see what the legendary Welsh Dragon Balance-Breaker could do.
Now the true battle between the bird and the dragon began.
[Partner remember, you have only 10s to beat that damned bird. After that, your Balance-Breaker would wear off and you won't be able to use it again today.] Ddraig smoothly lied to his host since he with Elsha knew that Issei with his training with both of them reach that point was he needed strong emotions to bring it out.
(Ise dear, use this opportunity to inflict as much damage you can before you return in your base form.) Elsha instructed him also hiding the same fact that Ddraig hidden.
Nodding Issei rocketed towards Riser reading a punch as Riser quickly released his wing and shot towards skies.
[X]
Issei couldn't stop in time and he collided into King piece that was completely destroyed by the impact that occurred.
Lifting himself from the rubble, Issei spread out his dragon wings and took to the skies where Riser was waiting for him.
[IX]
Reaching where Riser was waiting for him he asked in a mocking tone. "What's wrong you Riser I thought you would crush me but all I see is you running away from me."
"Why you insolent brat! Riser will show you the power even you filthy dragons are scared of." Riser shouted as he charged at Issei at full speed.
When they heard his insult both Ddraig and Issei where pissed, so Elsha did what was necessary to win this battle.
[VIII]
(Issei, quickly inhale air and on my mark relist it, Ddraig when he attacks you transfer as much power as you can) Elsha explained a quick plan that would at least wear down Phoenix magic stamina a little.
Nodding Issei did what he was told as he relisted his helmet and took a big gulp of air to prepared a fire breath attack that he training with Ddraig. While Ddraig started Boosting Issei as much as possible.
[Boost, boost, boost, boost, boost, boost, boost...] Ddraigs voice was heard by everyone widening their eyes a little bit.
As the Phoenix close enough for the attack to hit him point blank Elsha gave her signal
[VII]
(Issei, Ddraig, do it now!) Elsha shouted in Issei's mind.
"Take this you fucking chicken!" Issei shouted as he relisted his helmet and send a torment of Fire that at first didn't do anything to Riser that is until Ddraig did his part in Elsha's plan.
[TRANSFER!] Ddraig roared as he sent all collected boost at the torment of fire that engulfed the Phoenix.
The result where spectacular, Riser was seen falling from the skies and Issei was right on his back reading the punch that he hoped would break his spirit.
But Riser quickly regained his bearing and flown to the other side making Issei hit the ground hard breaking it.
[VI]
"Damned, we weren't quick enough to damage him more." Issei cursed as he stood up again and charged at the Phoenix.
"Riser will admit that was clever and hurt like hell but now it's my turn." Riser said as he also again charged at Issei with great speed making both of them disappeared only to appear when their fist's connected with each other's face.
Issei's helmet broke from the impact of Riser's fist but what shocked Riser was that instead of Issei's brown eyes they were now green like the jewel in the BOOSTER GEAR.
"What happened to your eyes peasant, why are they green?" Riser asked Issei as they disengaged from each other.
[V]
"What are you blabbering about you damned KFC?" Issei asked as he put some distance from Riser.
"Your eyes are now green, why? Riser again asked still in shock.
[IV]
"Don't know, don't care, now where were we?!" Issei shouted as he again started to charge at him.
But as soon as he took a few steps towards Riser he heard Ddraigs voice that made him shocked.
[Times up!] Ddraig announced as Issei's Balance-Breaker vanished making Issei face hit the ground.
"Wh-what? How? Ddraig it you said 10 seconds, time hasn't expired yet!" Issei shouted at the great Red Dragon Emperor.
[You used more power and that put your body where it can't Balance-Breaker anymore.] Ddraig swiftly lied ["Come on you can do it, Partner, you need just a little push] Ddraig secretly thought to himself.
"Damned" Issei mattered to himself as he felt something lifting him by the neck.
"Now it's time to knock you out and Rias will be my wife finally. You put up a good fight and like Riser told you if you had three more months you would defeat me. So don't feel bad you did well." Riser told him honestly as he started to suffocate Issei hoping to cut his airflow so he would pass out.
Issei image began to become murky as he felt his body given up, but at that moment Elsha decided to try and make him snap back to reality and bring out his true Balance-Breaker.
(Ufufuf so you are giving up that easily Ise? I thought that you would put a much better fight than that. So it looks like what you promised Grayfia about saving her sister and I were all a lie.) Elsha sigh as she fake being hurt by him hoping to force his emotions out.
'What I tried my best agent's him, but it wasn't enough.' Issei sadly replied.
(So then that means that you forfeit your freedom, and Grayfia's sisters and lose your chance on taking me out on a date because you are weak? Should have known that, you know what to think that Phoenix will humiliate you even more than Rias.) Elsha decided to give one last shot before giving up and forcefully taking his body and beating that damn Phoenix.
Hearing that Issei's eyes widen. How could he forget why he was here in the first place, he was here to win his freedom and to help Grayfia. But what Elsha said made him shocked.
'Is there a way to bring you back?' He asked her.
Nodding Elsha gave him all that he needed to know. (There is but you need to win this here and now, So Issei do it! Become the Strongest RED DRAGON EMPEROR EVER!) Elsha shouted within his mind while Ddraig boosted Issei's emotions and Elsha's voice for Issei to finally break the barrier.
Riser suddenly started to feel pain as his arm that was chocking Issei started to hurt badly. Releasing him, he saw something that made him pale in fear. Red light again exploded form Issei as he was engulfed in it. As the light died down after a few moments Issei was in his armor.
[WELSH DRAGON BALANCE-BREAKER] Ddraig suddenly roared his voice battle-hungry and out for blood.
"Huh, I thought you said I can't use Balance-Breaker again Ddraig?" Issei asked as he felt his armor back on him.
[That was a lie to force you to unlock it by your emotions, I will explain later now though we have a Chicken that needs to be roasted.]
(I want it with extra sauce.) Elsha said making both males chuckled before Elsha did what she promised.
(Issei, I will lend you my strength use it well.)
Whit that said Issei felt his power rising even more to the point that he would easily fight any High-class devil. But what made it strange is that he felt from his left hand it was like a holy energy, decided to question it later he charged at Riser quicker then he could dodge impending his armored fist into his stomach making the Phoenix spit blood.
"W-where did you get this power?" Riser questioned as he felt the Holy power in his armored fist.
"Good friend of mine gave it to me, now say you're good bye." Issei told him before sending a punch at his face.
"W-wait this..." Riser couldn't finish his sentence because at that moment Issei's fist connected with his face sending him flying towards the undamaged King's pieces that were destroyed as Riser slammed into it.
Issei walked toward the fallen Riser wanting to finish him off once and for all, but before he could get to him a small figure teleported in front of him and stood there blocking him from finishing this.
"You little girl move aside I have no business with you." He said to her in treating voice but to girl's courage, she didn't budge.
"I-I won't let you hurt my brother." She quietly told him as he felt him put his hand on her head and pat her slowly making her blush a little from the gesture.
"Riser is really lucky to have you as his sister. Don't worry this battle is done anyway." With that, Issei turned around. Missing a huge blush that came over the girls face.
"This battle is over Winer is Issei Hyoudou." Grayfia announced as he felt him being transported back to the hall where he deactivated his armor.
"A deal is a deal Rias Gremory is free." Sirzechs told everyone as Rias and all of the ORC hugged Issei tightly with tears in their eyes.
"Thank you, Issei." Rias softly to him.
"You welcome so let's go home." Issei told them as he and the group went outside where Issei turned the pamphlet around and from it, a beautiful Gryphon appeared with silver wings and a mighty roar.
"Well, that's one way of traveling." Issei spoke making everyone laugh.
"Come on Rias, let's go home, guys talk to you in the morning." He said as she lifted Rias into her seat and getting into his.
Whit one mighty swing of its powerful wing Gryphon took to the skies leaving the ORC members alone on the ground beloved. As they were on their way back Rias tried everything to get Issei attention but to her luck, she saw him staring into the distance clearly in thought. Frowning she lightly shake him making him turn to her.
"You need something Rias?" He asked.
Nodding Rias spoke. "What would you want for a reward for saving me?"
That made Issei think for a few moments before he turns around and told her something that she didn't expect.
"I want to train more. So I can help someone in need."
"You don't want my virginity or my first kiss?" Rias asked hoping to draw his perverted side out.
"Nah, I would like to train more." He told her and after that, the ride to Kuoh was in silents.
xxxxxx
As they finally gotten to Kuoh, Rias decided to from now on sleep with Issei so she announced it to him.
"Ise from now on I would move in with you. That way we could expand our bond even more." But to her shock he just outright refused her.
"Hell no, I did saved you, but that doesn't mean that I will let you do whatever you want with me. I'm off to sleep, sleep well princess." Issei told her before she could say anything to stop him, she had forgotten that he was still mad at her for what she did and that he would soon find his way out.
But what Issei didn't know is that Rias was falling in love with him and that would create a whole new set of problems for him.
Done.
A/N
For those that aren't familiar with Russian titles, Boyar is a Nobel class of citizen in Feudal Slavic countries.
Also to how Issei got his Holy power, it's because of Elsha transferring it into his gear. Note that she was a champion of both Head gods of Factions.
Perun is Slavic Head god and god of Thunder and equivalent to Odin from the Norse.
Issei Peerage:
King : Ise Hyodou
Queen : ? (Mutated Piece)
Knight : ?
Knight : ?
Bishop : Ravel
Bishop : ?
Rook : ?
Rook : Elsha (predecessor Booster Gear) (Mutated Piece) (model Elizabeth Mable from Freezing)
Pawn: Chelsea (6x)
Pawn: Murayama
Pawn: Katase