A.N.: I highly doubt this will work but to all readers, please read the author notes (A.N.) instead of asking for updates. Without further ado...
I do not own Highschool DxD.
Chapter 13: Go for Broke!
Issei and Akeno went to the warehouse to meet up with Kiba and Koneko, all the while ignoring the faint sounds of explosions in the distance.
[Combatant Riser Phenex-sama's 3 Pawns retire]
"Huh? Who did that? Daisuke's still fighting the Queen."
"Most probably Yuuto-kun and Koneko-chan managed to retire their opponents."
True to Akeno's word, they saw the other two who were surprised to see them.
"Akeno-san? Why are you here? And where is Daisuke-kun?" Kiba asked in confusion and in slight trepidation for her answer.
The Knight and Rook knew he should be fine since her expression was neutral, albeit with concern. All four of them went to the warehouse to seek cover while talking. But she didn't get the chance to explain.
"Akeno!" Rias' voice sounded through, "Go back and help Daisuke! He shut off his communicator and wouldn't listen to me!"
The Queen hesitated but Kiba and Koneko just got more worried about the situation, "Buchou, what do you mean?"
"He knew about this and decided to fight Yubelluna alone." Rias was calmer, trying to come up new ideas to save the black haired Rook in high tension would just be worse, "He's making the same reckless decision to fight alone again. You have to help him." She had to choose her words carefully. One slip up and Daisuke's secret would be publicized to all devils.
"Buchou, I understand how you feel, I truly do. But Daisuke-kun's eyes were resolute, and he thinks the enemy may have an ace up their sleeve. As much as I wish to go back and help, I also wish to have faith in him."
"Why can't he just accept help from us? Just because he knows, that doesn't mean he should shoulder this responsibility himself. Go and help him before he gets himself killed."
Issei could see Akeno's trembling hands, her face grew more and more worried. Kiba and Koneko was not doing much better and he himself was really worried as well, it was Issei's fault that Daisuke got hurt to save him. He gritted his teeth and said what was in his mind, "Buchou please listen to me."
"Issei?"
"I didn't see that much because their Pawns were chasing me with chainsaws, but I saw enough to know that Daisuke's strong enough to beat that Queen." Issei wasn't lying, despite not knowing the full powers of the Bomb Queen, he still has faith that his friend will win, "You should have seen him, he totally thrashed a Rook and a Knight at once like they were nothing."
Now that shocked everyone present, even Rias paused for a few moments to process that.
"Daisuke's strong, and he said that he'll win and catch up later. He believes in us, that's why I'll believe in him too. Daisuke won't give up, and we will win this. You might even- Never mind! Forget I said the last part!" Issei was pretty sure the oppai encouragement was just to get rid of his worry more than anything.
"... What else did he say?"
"H-huh?"
"What else did Daisuke say?"
Issei thought back to the calm and powerful look on the Rook's face, "He said make sure to win."
"Very well." There was a distinct hint of resignation in Rias' tone, "Changes are bound to happen sooner or later. Akeno, continue provide the rest with help in Daisuke's place. Everyone else, proceed as plan."
"What will you do, Buchou?" Akeno asked.
"I will fight Riser myself."
"Are you sure that is a good idea? I know you are powerful, but so is Riser."
"Looking at the current situation, it is safe to assume all his pieces are already dispatched. All of you are already somewhat tired and the enemies are still fresh. If I can end this with Asia's support, then you don't need to defeat them, just stall for time."
"A sound judgement." Kiba evaluated with more vigor than before, "But it is very risky."
"Perhaps, but it is our best option. I will not allow my adorable servants continue to suffer without me taking action."
They could hear their King's conviction. After exchanging glances, they responded in unison, "Rodger Buchou."
With Rias confronting Riser, Akeno, as second in command, is needed to lead the group, "First, let's reassess the situation. After hearing the announcement, all Riser has left are 2 Pawns, 2 Bishops, 1 Knight, 1 Rook, and his Queen. Daisuke-kun is currently confronting the Bomb Queen, so that leaves the rest to us."
"They are most probably stationed around the new school building."
"Then we will need to draw as much attention to ourselves to clear a path for Buchou."
"... Let's make some noise." Koneko punched into her palm.
Akeno charged up lightning into her palm, "Everyone, please stand back." Realizing what the Priestess of Thunder was thinking, nobody complained and did so. "HA!"
The door was flung through the air before a boom resounded, leaving it charred and smoking. Three enemies were surprised but not caught in the blast. The Knight stepped forward with her sword pointing at the warehouse, "Who goes there?"
All of them emerged, "Good morning, everyone. I hope you are doing well." Akeno casually greeted with a threatening undertone.
"The Priestess of Thunder!? Impossible! Yubelluna should be clashing with her!" Ravel was now on high alert along with the Rook and Knight. With Akeno's presence, they will need to be careful with how to face them. Ravel knows they will ultimately be the victor, but still needs to be cautious.
"She's getting her ass kicked by Daisuke." Issei summoned the Boosted Gear and already started doubling his power.
"The Rook?" Isabela whispered before a moment later, all three of them laughed despite being outnumbered and possibly outmatched.
"Care to share what is so funny?" Kiba asked with his Holy Eraser already drawn.
Ravel was first to regain her wits, "A Rook fighting our Queen? It is clearly obvious who will win. He must be either brave or incredibly stupid."
"Well you guys are wrong. Once Daisuke finishes, he'll join in. We're all gonna beat the crap out of you and win!"
"No one has defeated Yubelluna. Your friend will retire soon and you will join him." Ravel's enjoying this. She's been holding a grudge against him since two weeks ago for his brazen insinuations about her relationship with her brother, "My only regret right now is I cannot witness his retire myself. Isabela, Karlamine, finish them."
Isabela slowly walked forward, as opposed to Karlamine's slightly enthusiastic one, "Knight of Rias Gremory, I hereby challenge you to a one on one duel! Do you accept?"
Her two comrades just sighed at the display, muttering, "There she goes again."
Kiba's eyes glinted with challenge. Turning his head to get approval from Akeno later, "I am Kiba Yuuto, I accept your challenge!"
They both sped away from the group and engaged, sparks flying at the moment of impact their swords meet. The rest of them introduced themselves. Koneko was taking forward position with Akeno behind her to provide magic back up. Issei's at the back, charging up for his second Boost. Isabela was out front as Ravel stood back, watching the scene unfold in safety.
Isabela rushed forward with a punch ready. Koneko ducked and went for an uppercut to the chin which was blocked by a hand grabbing her fist. The enemy Rook backed up for a kick to the guts, but only grazed it. They continued exchanging blows and kicks which were nearly equal. Koneko's shorter limbs made it harder to reach but her frame made it harder for the opponent to land a hit.
Akeno was charging up enough lightning to retire the brunette. She had used quite a bit of magic blowing up the gym and making their earlier grand entrance, but a little rest would do the trick. Issei's keeping his desire to jump in and help in check, watching the Knights and Rooks fighting in their specialties. He knows Kiba would be fine and focused on boosting just enough so he can surprise Isabela, giving a chance for Akeno to fire.
"Impressive, I guess the Rooks of Rias Gremory are not just talk."
"You're not bad yourself."
The smaller Rook ducked and shoulder slammed, forcing back her enemy in surprise. She didn't give Isabela a chance to relax and crashed her foot into the stomach. Isabela sent an upward kick and launched Koneko back with a grunt. Isabela made a charge but had to jump to the side, away from a certain red gauntlet.
"Akeno-san, now!"
Issei jumped, giving Akeno a clear shot. Isabela widen her eyes in fear, she was pushed back and her momentum made her unable to dodge in time. Just as lightning was about to be launched, a red blur sped forward and knock Akeno away, the lightning missed its target.
"Wha-"
Issei didn't get to finish his words in time before another red blur sent him crashing in the opposite direction of his friends. Sliding on his back, Issei looked up and saw two newcomers that look like cat girls.
"What are you doing, nya?"
"Don't let your guard down, nya!"
"Ni, Li, Mihae, so you have come." Ravel casually looked to her right to see her fellow Bishop, her hands clasp together while emitting red glow.
'Scratch that, three newcomers.' Issei thought grimly.
"Forgive our tardiness. We have heard an explosion from our position and came to your aid. Although the Priestess of Thunder was out of Riser-sama's expectations." Mihae said politely.
"It doesn't matter, now we can finish them off."
The tides have been turned. The Bishops were at the back, Issei's facing Isabela and Koneko's going against the Nekomatas in the middle, Akeno recovered and flew into the air to get an aerial view. A similar red glow enveloped Isabela like the ones on the Nekomatas, re-energizing the Rook.
Issei gulped in nervousness, preparing another boost, "What is that glow?"
"Surprised?" Ravel said with a smile, "This is one of our trump cards, Mihae, with an enchanting ability, can temporarily amplify her targets abilities." Mihae, like Ravel, does not wish to directly participate in battles, but will support if necessary.
Looks like they might be biting off more than they can chew.
Though his master's future is depending on him, Kiba can't help but feel exhilarated. Aside from his bouts with Daisuke, he hasn't had a good sword fight with another expert in a long time. He and Karlamine race through the sports ground, it was big enough for them to fully make use of their Knight speed and giving it their all.
"You're better than what Riser-sama says. I guess those two weeks of training made you better."
"It helps that I had someone to teach, it reminds me of the basics and improve on what I need to learn."
Both of them were sweating but not breathing too hard, each of them had yet to show what they could really do. Karlamine's blazing sword met Kiba's Holy Eraser and they keep exchanging strikes. The blonde's horizontal swipe was dodged as the brunette leaned back and made a downward swing. Kiba parried it to the left and swung upwards in one fluid motion.
She received a shallow cut to her torso. Deciding to get more serious, she upped her speed which Kiba reciprocated. Their swords were now nothing more than blurs to average eyes. Kiba's eyes occasionally flickered to where his friends are to see how they're doing. Swords clashed as both wielders used more strength to push each other back.
"Worried about your friends? How kind of you."
"Not really, I know they will win. I was just wondering how much more time we can fight each other before they come to get me."
"I like warriors like you. You say what's on your mind and fight straightforwardly. But..." Karlamine immediately struck through Holy Eraser, destroying blade to bits, "... I do not intend to lose."
Kiba backed off to get some space, "That makes both of us. Come, Flame Delete." The ice appeared around the guard and created another blade.
"So this is Sword Birth, interesting." Karlamine withdrew a dagger with her free hand and held it in reverse grip. It flared to life just like her normal sword, raising the surrounding temperature even higher, "What do you say? Your Sword Birth against my dual flames?"
Kiba smirked in response.
Koneko was not having fun. Other than the fact that she needs to buy time or better yet, beat her opponents to help her King, she's actually facing two Nekomatas in sugar rush mode. That already gave her an emotional turmoil because of her species.
"Is this really all you got, nya?"
"Why don't you use your ki, nya?"
"Shut up." Koneko said with a little more anger than she wanted to show.
The white haired cat jabbed forward and then did a roundhouse kick, both were evaded. Ni jumped and Li ducked, they're making use of their cat-like reflexes to dodge in awkward movements that resembles more of felines. They would either dodge or attack, blocking was out of the question. They may be powered up, but still didn't want to test their defenses against a Rook.
Due to Koneko's training with Daisuke and his clone, the experience from her two-on-one matches were showing. Koneko blocked a punch from her left and ducked a kick from her right, she did a full spin kick. They jumped back as Koneko head towards Ni and elbowed her stomach before barely dodging Li's right hook.
"What is this, nya?"
"Why are you holding back, nya?"
"I don't need that power." Koneko answered with her eyes narrowed. Their 'nya's were really starting to get to her as they keep reminding her of a certain someone.
""Are you sure about that, nya!""
Koneko tried to dodge but got ki enhanced kicks to her right leg and left shoulder. She could feel her spirit weakening and loosing strength quickly. After so many years have suppressing her natural powers, she's taking it only slightly better than a non-senjutsu user. Even when she let her ears and tail out, she made sure to stay as isolated and far away from people as possible.
"Your onee-chan caused quite a bit of trouble for us, nya."
"We were persecuted because of her, nya."
Struggling to remain vigilant, she could only listen, trying to recover as much as possible.
"However, because of her, Riser-sama found us and took us in, nya. We are fighting for what our master wants, nya."
"And yet you're not doing the same, nya. Are you really that pathetic, nya?"
Koneko knows. She knows that she could do more, she knows her powers could help her win. But she also knows she can't risk losing control and hurt her friends in the process. Memories of what her sister did to their former master flashed to her mind.
The nekomatas kicked her flying towards Akeno, who was irritated by her lack of success. The Queen caught her junior before descending to the ground. She couldn't use her lightning without getting her juniors caught in the process and decided to switch her target to the Bishop. But whenever she tried, the enemy Rook stepped in and protected Mihae. While it did injure her, it was not much. Charging up will take too much time when the others were slowly getting beaten, and repeatedly firing lightning will drain her stamina faster, not to mention one of the nekomatas will take advantage if she looses focus. A testament of their teamwork, something the newer members in Rias' peerage didn't have time to train in.
Ravel was still standing back and watching the fights unfold. It was really surprising for her that the Gremory group managed to push them further than any other opponents in their Rating Games, especially when her fellow Bishop needed to step in. This was the reason why her brother wasn't concerned about having only one functional Bishop. Her rare and unique spell that can bolster other members was already good enough without another Bishop needing to pitch in, not that Ravel can properly fight anyway. Though the spell can only be used on three people at once.
But still, the younger Phenex was wondering what's taking Yubelluna so long. One mere Rook shouldn't be difficult to finish, especially when she also has a grudge against him for insulting her brother. Squinting her eyes, she spotted the two fighters flying around the tennis court, with the Bomb Queen bombarding large amounts of fire.
Her view was obstructed again when Isabela shielded her from lightning. The Rook then went back against the Sekiryuutei, Ni and Li confronted the Nekoshou and Priestess of Thunder. At this rate, the Gremory servants will tire themselves and victory will be in Riser's grasp. Ravel tried looking back to where the Bomb Queen was fighting again but found nothing, she assumes they must have landed.
Issei's doing his best to try boost as much as possible, but Isabela's punches and kicks were hard to ignore. It was like sparring against Daisuke with his gear. He barely leaned left in time from a punch but took an uppercut to the chin. His opponent was getting slower with each lightning she blocked but still has enough energy to give Issei a beat down.
Getting another boost, he briefly saw Akeno trying her best to dodge the cat girls swift assaults with Koneko behind her. He quickly cross blocked an axe kick coming from above his head. He could feel the pressure increasing and fell to his knees.
"Quite a display, but you are still pathetic for this generation's Sekiryuutei to tremble beneath my foot."
Issei gritted his teeth and pushed back as much as he can, feeling so frustrated that he can't change the flow of the battle.
"Don't worry, Riser-sama will take good care of Rias Gremory. She will-"
[Combatant Riser Phenex-sama's Queen retire]
"What! Yubelluna lost!?"
It wasn't just Isabela who shouted in distress, all members of Riser's peerage paused with their eyes wide in disbelief. On the other hand, the rest felt great joy knowing their friend kept his word.
"That's right." Issei found more power in himself than before, "Daisuke's counting on me to protect everyone." He got up and kicked Isabela's stomach, sending her away.
"He's doing everything he can to help us win!" Issei didn't know what's getting into him, all he knows is that he felt like screaming out his feelings, "I can't show him how lame I am like this! Not after he beat that bitch!"
The Boosted Gear shined brighter with each passing moment, "Hey Ddraig!" He yelled to his gautlet, "You said that you respond to my desire for more power right!? Well that's what I want! I know you got more in you! I couldn't save Asia before, but there's no way I'll let my friends down again! Give me more power!"
[DRAGON BOOSTER SECOND LIBERATION]
A surge of new power flowed from the gauntlet into Issei's body. Emitting bright green light, the Boosted Gear extended futher up his left arm, yellow spikes and a second green jewel emerged. Issei could feel the new power an acted quickly, "Akeno-san!" Rushing past the enemies who were still in their stupor, issei reached to touch Akeno's hand.
[TRANSFER]
Akeno couldn't believe when she felt a huge amount of power passed onto her. With Issei and Koneko behind her, she flew back into the air and immediately summoned a hug lightning bolt, "Resound Thunder!"
The boom drowned out the sounds of girls screaming in pain.
[Combatant Riser Phenex-sama's 2 Pawns, 1 Bishop, and 1 Rook retire]
Issei panted in exhaustion but the absolute glee of winning couldn't stop him from grinning, with the other two girls feeling pretty much the same.
Ravel felt the intense pain but healed seconds later. She silently glared at her enemies before seeking shelter back in the new school building.
Kiba noted her swordsmanship. Karlamine uses the long sword for offense while the dagger was meant for defense and counters, a good balance. He was doing fine, albeit with few scratches and first degree burns- he reminded himself to thank his friends again for the fireproof suit-, until he heard the Bomb Queen retirement. The flaming swordswoman became unnerved as she showed more and more openings.
What really made he decide to end the battle was the last announcement. He enjoyed himself, but it's time to end this, "I am sorry, but it seems I can't waste any more time. How about we settle this?"
"Do you think you've won!?" Her voice was loud, like she was trying to convince herself more than anything, "Riser-sama will burn you all to ashes. He will avenge us and win!"
"That is where you are wrong. We have reached this far because of our trust in each other. And we will also win because of it."
Kiba got into her guard with a forward thrust, slightly freezing her chest and forcing her to jump back. He stabbed his sword onto the ground, growing blades behind her to cut of her escape route. This surprised Karlamine until Kiba created more blades protruding from below and pierced through her body. Yelling out in pain, she succumbed to unconsciousness.
[Combatant Riser Phenex-sama's 1 Knight retire]
He flicked his sword to get rid of the blood and gave the usual polite smile to his approaching friends, "Good to see you are doing fine."
"Took you long enough, ikemen." There wasn't any real bite as Issei smirked.
The only fight left was the one on a rooftop. They could see the red flames and black energy violently colliding, with the green shields defending against the former. All of them feeling worried about their master, wondering what should they do next.
*Huff* *Huff*
After regaining my wits, I ran to the sports ground to help the others. But my mind was still thinking about the fight against Bomb Queen, it had been much easier than I thought. Besides the fact I couldn't get the tears, I practically overwhelmed her. Me, a Rook, single-handedly beating a Queen. I'm gonna need Rias to evaluate my stats once this is all over.
A familiar boom echoed, guess Akeno's having fun. Next thing I heard was that the rest of fire chicken's peerage has retired. After doing a mental count, all that's left is his Bishop, just like in canon. I made it to see a giant smoking crater and blades sticking upwards.
"Hey guys!" I got a good look at them and frowned.
"Daisuke." Issei was the first to greet with a wide smile, "You made it."
"And you look more beat up than I thought." It was a subtle message saying that I didn't know this would happen. They got the hint. "Mind filling me in on the details?"
Listening carefully to their brief explanation, I frowned even deeper about the Bishop. I never saw her fight in canon or in the videos Rias showed us, this was partly the reason why I asked Akeno to switch roles, but I didn't think it would be something like this. I can only assume that Issei and Kiba retired her in canon before she had the chance to use it. That, or the Bishop in this world's DxD picked up a new trick.
Looks like only Kiba, Akeno and I are in better conditions. I briefed them about my fight, getting surprised looks in the process.
"You drilled into her?" Akeno questioned with something I don't like in her eyes.
"Yes..."
"Ara ara~, Daisuke-kun. I didn't know you can be that rough with ladies." Akeno sensually licked her lips with her gaze even more intense than before.
Sensing danger from the sadist/masochist, I quickly changed the subject, "How long has Buchou been fighting?"
"Quite a while, we're not sure if she can win."
"I don't think she can." They looked at me with more worry than before, "But I'm not gonna let that happen. Guys, I got a plan. Are you with me?"
All of them smiled in relief and happiness at my words and nodded. Issei fist pumped, "We're with you all the way Daisuke."
Running down the halls, I scanned for a specific devil until I saw her standing grumpily outside the Student Counsel Office. I gave a small and friendly smile with a nonchalant wave, "Hello there little Phenex. How are you doing?"
"You!" Ravel pointed at me in anger, "Are you still delusional to think you can win. You may have come furthest out of all our opponents, but onii-sama will still win. Then, Rias Gremory will obey our wishes."
"Maybe he'll win, or maybe he won't." Despite acting casual, my guard was never down even for an instant, "Oh, what am I saying? He'll definitely lose. With you as an exception, his entire peerage is already retired. And you can't even fight. Why are you in his peerage anyway?"
She turned her head away like she's talking to a commoner with a disease, "In the future, I will also become a high-class devil and participate in my own Rating Game. My position as onii-sama's Bishop will grant me experience and knowledge for that purpose."
"And you sure you don't have a brother complex?"
Whipping her head back to me with a blush, "I do NOT harbor any incestuous feelings for my onii-sama! Do not keep presuming for the sake of your own delusions!"
Now I know why Kiryuu keeps making jokes like this, it's so much fun. Chuckling, I raised my hands in a surrendering gesture, "Okay, okay, I'll stop. Sorry."
"Humph. Try this again and I will send every girl in our peerage to attack you."
"Please don't, I already had enough from Bomb Queen. She kept peppering me with explosions, it's even worse when she had Phoenix Tears."
"Oh?" She dug into her pocket and proudly showed me a vial, "Do you mean this?"
"Thank you."
"Hey!"
The vial is pretty small, barely the size of my palm. If I remember correctly, this is a topical medication which restores health and magic, not sure about stamina and disease though. Regardless, I got what I came for, "I'll make good use of this. Think of this as repayment for trying to ruin Buchou's life. Quite a small price to pay, don't you think?"
"That is an important healing tool worthy to only us to emerge victorious in this Rating Game. I demand that you give it back." Ravel stretched out a hand with her palm open.
...
...
"No."
"Wha- you impudent little-"
"As much as I like trading banters with you, I still need to go back and help my friends." Safely pocketing the tears, "Since you're a non-combatant and younger than me, I'll make this completely painless."
The Bishop stepped back, showing fear for the first time since we talked, "Wait, what are you-"
"Genjutsu: Tenkugan." The light in her eyes started to fade as her legs lost strength. I caught her before she could hit the floor and set her down gently, "Huh, it actually works!" A light enveloped her.
[Combatant Riser Phenex-sama's Bishop retire]
"Time to move."
To be honest, Rias wasn't as sure as she sounded when she said she would defeat Riser. The fact that Daisuke pointed out he knew about this just made her all the more hesitant. But she was proud and believed in her powers, she refused to stand back and watch her adorable servants fight when she knew she could end this by defeating the enemy King herself. There was also a no small part of herself that she wanted to pay Riser back for all that he's done to her.
Riser, however, also knew that she would come alone and accepted her challenge without a second thought. They agreed to fight at the rooftop where they can unleash as much magic as they want without collateral damage. It was basically shoot, dodge and repeat, with Asia's shields blocking the balls of fire whenever she was caught off guard.
She kept throwing as much Destruction as she could. Her so-called fiancé wasn't very adept in dodging, but his immortality kept healing him faster than she could wound him. It infuriated her really, she thought they were nearly equal in terms of magic. While she was sweating from both heat and exhaustion, Riser was barely breathing hard. Rias was getting physically and mentally exhausted. Not to mention, she kept stealing glances at her servants and worry about them.
It was only until she heard the announcement of Yubelluna's retire. Shortly after, the rest of Riser's peerage retired as well. Rias was feeling elevated and a lot less stress, but Riser was the complete opposite.
"You have made a mockery of me Rias!" He sent a huge wave of flames that could be felt even through Asia's barrier and her fireproof suit. "I entertained the idea of your little struggle, but your servants have changed my mind. Did you think my threat to burn them were merely empty words!"
Rias gritted her teeth, sweated even more than before and strained her eyes to see past the flames. She was completely surprised that Riser was holding back.
"Buchou-san, are you okay?"
"Don't worry Asia. I will beat him."
She wasn't completely lying. No need to make her Bishop feel more distressed than she already is. They need to move, but Asia can't make a barrier and move at the same time, and that's if the barrier doesn't crumble first, she could already see many cracks and ready to shatter at any moment. Rias' only option was to retire her Bishop to ensure her safety and have a real one-on-one with Riser.
"I am Riser Phenex of the great Phenex Household. Your childish rebellion has gone too far! For my honor, I will bring you back to the Underworld whether you like it or not!"
Rias prepared Asia's force retirement.
"Think again fire chicken!"
The flames stopped as Rias and Asia got front-row seats to Daisuke roundhouse kicking Riser to the sports field. He only gave a two-finger salute before flying towards him with an almost manic grin.
"Double up x10!"
What happened next was just unbelievable to Rias' eyes. Daisuke was completely overwhelming Riser, the Phenex didn't even have a chance to counter. Daisuke severed his head, kneed him in the stomach, cut his body in half, uppercut his chin, stabbed his sword into his heart and yanked down to his waist, and kicked him in the balls, twice!
Riser's healing was about as fast as Daisuke's barrage. It wouldn't beat him but he's definitely feeling the agonizing pain, overloading his sensory nerves.
"A-amazing."
She could hear Asia's word in awe and she could only nod in agreement.
Riser felt his anger grow along with the pain, his pride ruined further and further by someone he deemed nothing more than a low-class, "Do you think- what you can- defeat- ALLOW ME TO FINISH MY SENTENCES!"
Daisuke paused, "Well, I could do that."
"So you finally know your p-"
"But I refuse!" Daisuke shoved his blade directly into his mouth and swung it downwards, momentarily showing his internal organs before it healed, but slower than before.
Rias stared the whole time, not even blinking as she watched her Rook's every movement. Despite being rude and a little barbaric, she couldn't help but become mesmerized by his actions. Her face flushed and heart soared as what Daisuke is doing to help them, to help her.
Daisuke fired his wind at point-blank range into Riser's stomach, sending him away. He was panting and stabbed his sword into the ground for support, he's drained. Riser's anger morphed into vengeful glee, "Is this it? Is this the extent of your powers? Valiant effort as it may be, you are still nothing compared to me." Fire ignited in his hand, "Any last words, scum?"
"Just two. Guys, now!"
Yuuto, Koneko, and Issei sprung out from behind Riser, each holding ice swords. Yuuto quickly sped in zig-zag motions around him, freezing Riser's body. Issei and Koneko just swung wildly to cover as much area as possible. Riser's skin color became pale before he quickly emitted flames to surround his body, prompting the three to retreat.
"You insolent fools! Numbers will not help you, it will take much more than simple ice to- GAH!"
"Alright here's the plan. I need to get something first from the little Phenex before going to fire chicken and beat the shit out of him."
"As enticing as that may sound, I do not think that will be enough to defeat him." Akeno countered.
"That's just to weaken him, we need to wear down his magic and stamina before landing a killing blow. Kiba, think you can make two more ice swords for Issei and Koneko?"
"It would not be a problem."
"Good. When I give the signal, you three hack him with as much ice as possible, make him feel more pain. He'll burn himself to melt the ice, so get away when that happens." The three of them nodded. "Akeno, you got the most important job." She paid even more attention. "While we're pummeling him, use that time to charge up as much as possible. Once the ice melts into water, make it rain thunder on him."
All them widen their eyes, "Water conducts electricity. Once he's soaked, dish out to fry his nerves form the inside out. Even if he's immortal, elemental weaknesses still apply to him. Don't hold back, be as sadistic as you want." I grinned dangerously.
"Ufufu, ufufu, ufufufufufu~. I have waited for a long time for someone to say those words." Akeno licked her lips.
Ignoring that, "After Akeno's done, the rest of you pitch in and try to hurt him further. I need to talk to Rias directly since my communicator's fried, and give her the chance she needs. If anything goes wrong, call me. I got a little surprise for him."
"Hell yeah, let's do this!" Issei yelled.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that that was the best time I've had in my life. Normally, I wouldn't be this savage but in this case, an immortal bird that can constantly heal his injuries, I could ignore his chances of death. The look on his face when I kicked his balls was totally priceless! And I'm not the only one, everyone had a great stress reliever if the smirks on their faces were anything to go by, even Koneko. With Akeno outright slaughtering fire chicken...
"GIGIGIGIGIGIGAGAGAGAGAGAGAGA!"
... let's just say I'll be replaying this scene over and over again once I get my video copy.
The lightning finally died down after about five minutes. Fire chicken was overcooked with smoke all over him, he staggered but didn't get the chance to do more before the other three continue the beat down. Guess who went in first.
"Dragon Shot!"
The red concentrated beam sent him flying. Speaking of flying, Rias, holding Asia in her arms, landed next to me. There are some holes that showed their skin, probably due to the fire after Asia healed their burns. Rias' expression was conflicted, "I do not know whether to be angry or happy."
I stood up, "You can be both once this is all over. Are you two okay?"
"Y-yes. Thank you Hanwei-san."
"We were backed into a corner until you showed up." Rias pinned me with a hard stare, "Daisuke, why did you disobeyed my order? You keep insisting on fighting alone against strong opponents."
"Because of the same reason as you did." She was dumbstrucked, "It's because there are people who needs me, becuase I didn't want to see you all getting hurt. And above all else, it's because you are my friends. What other reason do I need to fight?"
"W-well, you could have at least let me handle Riser alone. You should have allowed me this much." She turned away with... a blush?"
"Maybe. But take a look at the others." Both of us did as we saw Akeno throwing thunderbolts, Kiba slashing his joints, Issei punching his face, and Koneko puching his balls. If it wasn't for his bloodline, I'd bet he would be infertile right now, "You told me that you cherish everyone in your peerage, but it doesn't work just that. It works both ways."
I looked back into her eyes, "All of us were angry with fire chicken because he's trying to ruin your life. Just as you cherish us, we cherish you." Her blush intensifies, "We are your pillars. If you stumble along the way, we'll help you up. If you meet an obstacle, we'll clear it with you. I know you wanted to beat him yourself, but seeing you hurt also pains us just as much."
"I-I-"
"A good King doesn't overlook her servants and fight by herself, but fights together with her servants. Don't you think?"
Rias has her head down, face and ears red like a scolded child. I did a double take. The girl who would pounce on Issei naked, is embarrassed!? Did I jump reality again into an alternate DxD world!?
"I... I suppose I let my pride get to me. Perhaps you're right, I would like nothing more than to prove myself and defeat Riser alone. But maybe I did not consider the possibility of being outmatched."
"Well, it's not alone. But I got the next best thing." She perked up as I handed her the Phoenix Tears. Her eyes grew wide.
"Enough!" Fire chicken flared out wildly, realeasing his fiery wings. The others got burned and quickly stood back. "I will not allow this travesty to continue! You low-class scums have gotten too full of yourselves! You are all nothing more than dirt beneath my feet!"
All of us were sweating. The ambient temperature rised as his anger exploded. I walked forward without any fear, "Too full of ourselves?" Fire chicken's glare intensifies. "Oh please, this is our first Rating Game and none of us has suffered any significant loss as we defeated each and every member of your peerage, including your sister who is also a Phenex. Face it, you'll be the laughing stock of the century."
His face twisted into a crazed and defiant sneer, veins buldging in fury and hands trembling in rage, "I refuse to be humiliated by the likes of you!" Holding his hand above his head, fire chicken gathered a colossal amount swirling flames big enough to cover the entire sports field, "I have made a promise to incenerate you, have I not? Burn and despair as you all become smoldering ash!"
He threw the giant wave of fire at us. Sweat keep pouring as it gets closer, but I was more disappointed than anything. Sighing, guess I do need the trump card. The rest backed off and called me to stop, but I ignored them. I unpocketed and unfolded a piece of paper containing a specific magic circle. Putting it in front of me, the flames were harmlessly absorbed until not even embers were left.
...
All of them, including fire chicken, stared at me flabbergasted. The original plan was to make a water sealing circle and blast him with a mini tsunami. But the stabilizing core was too volatile, releasing the contents in seconds and I couldn't finish it in time. So, I changed it to a fire sealing version to store large amounts of fire. The paper was refolded as I threw it back to fire chicken. After all, I never did perfect that fire seal either.
*KA-BOOM*
He bounced a few times on the ground, his right arm and left leg were completely missing. I was about to say something else when I noticed he wasn't regenerating. Why isn't he regenerating? Shouldn't he be regenerating!? WHY ISN"T HE- oh, never mind.
"And there's one more thing I forgot to mention. You've been dancing on top of the palm of my hand this entire time. Guys, let's finish this!"
Issei and Koneko reeled in and punch his stomach, Kiba zoomed in with Flame Delete and sliced him in blurs, Akeno conjured up lightning which sent him flying towards me, and I gave him a Getsuga with the last bit of my magic left.
His face and clothes were ruined, glaring weakly at me, "This is not over! Do you think I am afraid of you!? I am the mighty Riser Phenex! I will win!"
"I'm not the one who you should be worried about moron!" I spat out.
The ground trembled as we all saw Rias amassing an obscene amount of Destruction. Fire chicken's face contorted into fear as she launched it straight at him, leaving a trail of destroyed path and engulfing fire chicken whole. All that remained was silence until a voice sounded out.
[Combatant Riser Phenex-sama retire. The game is settled. The victor is Rias Gremory-sama]
"Told ya I'd keep my promise."
Alex Jones: I have no idea what you're talking about, so I don't know how to respond.
Guest who asked for update: Here's the update.
Guest who reviewed at chapter 10: You'll understand more as the story progresses.
Guest: No stealing, groping, or frags. Why do you think Daisuke would do that?
Guest-Questioner: Thanks for being patient. I'm starting to think you're doing this on purpose just to get my attention. LOL.
A.N.: Hey guys! Guess who's back. I'm finally done with my final exams and on holiday, updates will be coming regularly now until school starts. Hope you guys weren't too bored, but the life of a university student is a hard one. As I would always say, please leave a review and tell me what you think.
Ja Ne