04/28/2012, Gremory's Training Ground, Morning.
'Makoto are you ready?' asks Ryoji as Thanatos from inside the boy's mind. 'Yes, I am. I just hope everything will be fine, Rias and everyone did their best, but I don't know if it will be enough and I can't help but feel... anxious I guess' replies Makoto. 'This is not good Universe! Smile and cheer for them! Your usual stoic and gloomy face will not be able to light up their hearts! I cannot accept it!' says Cendrillon, a cheerleader spirit surging within her. 'I agree with Cendrillon, hee hoo. The Priestess, the Hanged, the Magician, Akeno and Yuuto all put their faith in you. Now it's your turn to have faith in them, hee hoo' says Jack Frost. 'I couldn't have explained it any better Universe. The Magician did a wonderful job and not only she made it for the Priestess, but also to make you proud. Fafnir can confirm it' says Kohryu.
'I hope you are reeeady to lose your bet All-Father' creaks the metallic dragon, mocking Odin. 'I wouldn't be so sure lizard. The blonde is something to be reckoned with, his willpower isn't to be underestimated' says Odin. 'The All-Father speaks the truth. Kuba Yuuto has been a good student. Now it's time for him to prove himself as a worthy warrior in a real battle' says instead Yoshitsune anticipating the Rating Game. 'You are making me feel jealous' says Thanatos wondering about the training Rias and her peerage undertook. 'Next time you don't hide things from me Ryoji' immediately tells back Makoto.
'It does matter not. This game is already over, the Priestess managed to overcome her mental obstacles regarding her power' comments Lucifer. 'Am I imagining things? Lucifer are you perhaps saying the Priestess is worth your time?' asks Ryoji amused. 'Me and Makoto had the same exact reaction' replies Messiah causing a loud chuckle from the other personas, and even Makoto who's usually indifferent by his other selves' jokes. 'Shut up, you all. Especially you Apollo' says Lucifer taking the joke a bit better than usually as he didn't even threaten the other personas. 'Why do you always target me?' laments the Sun God, but before he can receive an answer Makoto is sent back to reality by a knock on his door.
"Lord Yuki" says Grayfia politely knocking on the door of his bedroom. "The teleportation is ready, I am waiting for you" tells the maid patiently waiting Makoto's response. "I am coming" he answers taking the handle of the door and exiting his room. "Where are the others?" he asks, not seeing anyone else nor hearing them. "Lady Rias and her servants already departed for the Rating Game dimension. We are instead taking a different teleport towards the VIP booth. Lord Lucifer is there too, he'd like to meet you if that's not a problem" explains Grayfia. "What do you mean by Rating Game dimension?" asks Makoto. "To prevent serious damage to the structures where Rating Games are held the real fights happen inside a pocket dimension so that more security measures can be taken".
"Security measures? It is not deadly isn't it?" Makoto's voice has a faint hint of worry. If they used alternative dimensions to fight in it obviously means the destruction can be quite massive. "There are some risks, but the magic of the Rating Game dimension will withdraw the combatants before their demise or if they can't fight anymore". Makoto nods his head and follows Grayfia. 'Ryoji did you remind Elizabeth to come?' asks the boy.
'She accepted the Tower's offer to visit Takamagahara and meet the other shinto gods. Izanagi followed her too, but he will be with us at a minute's notice in case something happens' explains Thanatos. 'Today, of all days? We can't do anything about it. Let's go'. Makoto and Grayfia arrive at the teleportation room and they are sent to the Underworld.
04/28/2012, Underworld, Morning.
Inside the Gremory's peerage preparation room Rias is giving a speech to her servants. "Are you all ready?" asks temhe girl for starters, her voice devoid of any insecurity. Now it's not time to esitate, but to be a beacon for her family and friends. "Yes!" shouts everyone. "Before we go and beat Riser for good... there is something I want to tell all of you. I... thank you for everything. I've never really thought about what great family and friends you are. So, thank you" says Rias tears of gratefulness forming under her eyes.
"We are here because we believe in you Rias. Let's fry that chicken and sign the first win of the team of Rias Gremory, future Rating Game champions" says Akeno, her sadistic side tasting already the upcoming battle. "I want to punch Riser Phenex in the face" decides Koneko slamming her fists against one another. "I will show you I am worthy of being your knight President" says Kiba with a confident smile. "Say it aloud charming prince! We are going to win this game President and show that arrogant prick his place!" declares Irumi. 'I see fire in your heart partner. Don't waste it' says Ddraig. 'You don't even have to say it Ddraig'.
[The Rating Game is starting in 10 minutes. Please, both peerages head towards the teleportation towars the Rating Game dimension]
A synthetic voice alerts the Gremory peerage about the start of the match. All if them adjust their uniforms, reinforced versions of the Kuoh Academy standard clothing, and start walking the corridor leading to the Pocket Dimension ready for what's to come. Riser's Peerage too, with the Phenex leading the group, do the same with the synthetic announcer starting the countdown.
04/28/2012, VIP booth, Morning.
"Zechs are you okay? You seem quite shaken" asks Serafall, looking at her crimson-haired friend. Sirzechs lets out a sigh before opening his eyes and looks at the current Leviathan. "Yes how can I be not?I am just preoccupied about Rias. This is her first Rating Game and she's just 18 I have all the rights to be concerned about my little sister" cries the Satan holding his chest in exaggeration. "Don't worry Mako surely did a great job with them!" chimes Serafall. "Yuki Makoto... to think that the Messiah would have helped my sister I would have done something to thank him. Now I'm also feeling ashamed for my own lack of manners other than worried" says Sirzechs conflicted between his gratefulness for Makoto and the moving diplomatic incident he is.
"Don't sweat it Zechs! Mako is a good boy! He won't ask anything in return he just did it because that's who he is" tells Serafall to reassure Sirzechs. "That doesn't resolve the fact I don't have anything but words to express my gratitude. My Father would reprimand me for it!" whines again Sirzechs.
While the two satans are talking another devil is waiting for the arrival of Makoto. A middle-aged man with calculative purple eyes and black hair which hide a scar on his forehead made by an old enemy during the Great War. He wears elegant clothes matching the solemn and wise aura emanating from him. Zekram Bael, ancestor of the Bael House. The Great King and the oldest devil in existence still alive. He has been visited by his long gone Creator and master, Lucifer. A meeting he was waiting for since the latter's death. It was only a matter of time after all, not even death can defeat a real devil. This is the ideology Zekram is so convinced in and that guided his every move. Devils are the supreme race, an ideology deeply rooted in his political front.
'Five centuries have passed. Our reunion will be the most pleasant experience I had in a long while' thinks Zekram remembering the words Lucifer, the persona, told him when he visited him just few days ago. While he wasn't busy with training Rias, Lucifer managed to arrive in the Underworld by forcing the magic trigger of a portal of the Gremory Mansion. Upon arriving in the Underworld he met with Zekram Bael who immediately recognised him as the Morning Star and swore his loyalty to him once again. 'On the 28th of this month you will reunite with my true self at the match between Rias Gremory and Phenex Riser. Be there' that was Lucifer's command.
Zekram was able to discover a few things the current Satans tried to hide from the public and the pillar parliament. The existence of the so called Messiah, the one spoken in almost every known mythology. 'You have come back to save our race my lord and reclaim your rightful throne as our king'. The Great King leans on the wall pending the arrival of Makoto, the other devils not daring to question the Great King's presence. However a woman approaches Zekram, the same violet eyes as him. "Ancestor, what a surprise to see you here. I didn't know you were a fan of Rating Games, especially unofficial ones like this" tells the woman, Venelana Gremory, formerly a member of the Bael House before marrying Zeoticus Gremory.
"Venelana good to see you my child. How are you doing?" asks the Great King in a sooth voice, immediately understanding Venelana's attempt to discover his reason to be here without asking it directly. "I'm fine Ancestor. I bid you a pleasant day I am going to reunite with Zeoticus now" tells with a respectful bow the woman, bidding farewell to her Ancestor. "Tell the boy hi from me, dear" tells the Great King before his descendant walks away.
Said descendant goes to search for her son, Sirzechs, the presence of Zekram alarming Venelana, as he never does something without a precise purpose. 'What is Ancestor doing here of all places? He has never been interested in the affairs of the Gremory House. Could it be that he wants to be sure to see the marry secured? No. He doesn't waste his time like this'.
Venelana knocks on the door of the VIP booth before entering and being greeted by Serafall and Sirzechs. "Lady Gremory, hello!" says chiming Serafall. "Mother? You and Father are already here?" asks instead Sirzechs, not expecting the arrival of his parents at least not before the start of the Game. "Luckily I came here before your father" sighs Venelana. "The Great King himself is here too, do you have any idea why our Ancestor is, now of all times, interesting himself in the matters of the Gremory House?" asks Venelana, fearing the potential schemes Zekram is plotting.
Hearing the Great King's name Serafall and Sirzechs share a look, which doesn't go unnoticed by Venelana. "What's the matter?" asks the woman. "Mother...". Sirzechs hates to lie to his parents. Even if it is about top-secret government information. "I understand" replies Venelana, knowing her son too well and readying his expression like an open book. "I hope the situation isn't too difficult for you two to handle. I leave you alone,if you allow me". And so Venelana exits the room leaving the two satans to discuss with each others.
"I fear Ajuka's worries are right" says Serafall. "We must meet with the Messiah before the Great King does" declares Sirzechs with Serafall nodding her head. "Alright let me go!". Before Sirzechs can even blink Serafall is already out of the room.
When Grayfia told the New Satans that Makoto had the Persona of Lucifer Ajuka immediately highlighted the danger of such a thing. If the Great King Faction was to discover the existence of the progenitor of the devils all the premises of the current government would crumble. And who knows how much chaos would be generated from it. First, the faction of the Great King would immediately disown the New Satans. And the many consequences to the Devil race would follow like a waterfall one after the other. Moreover this scenario was not considering the potential reaction of the remaining forces of the Old Satan Faction. "And even if the Messiah doesn't do anything the only mention of Lucifer being alive can provoke a revolt from the most radical parties of the senate not affiliated with the two major factions of the New Satans and the Great King" sighs Sirzechs.
[The Rating Game is starting in 5 minutes. Please, both peerages prepare for the teleportation to the Rating Game dimension]
Makoto and Grayfia appear from the magic circle. "Where are we?" asks Makoto to the maid. "We are in the Runeas Arena, it is the official Rating Game stadium of the Gremory Territory. It is named after the common Ancestor of House Gremory" explains Grayfia. 'They have proper stadiums for it, like the arena there was at Olympia' comments Apollo, reminiscing the ancient greek Olympic games.
"If you may follow me Lord Yuki, we're now heading towards the VIP booth" saya Grayfia as she leads Makoto through the alleys of the building. The corridors are painted in white with the crest of the Gremory House drawn on the sides, just like the logo of a sport team depicted on their home stadium.
"Good morning. It is a great pleasure to meet you Messiah, Lord Lucifer informed me about your presence here today".
Grayfia and Makoto are stopped by Zekram who, to Grayfia's shock which the dutiful maid doesn't show, slightly bows to Makoto. 'Lucifer care to explain?' asks Thanatos at the sight of the Great King. 'I just made sure to contact someone who could help us. He might not look like THE Bael, but this man is still the supposed Bael of this world' explains Lucifer. 'So you were searching for the King of Bel? What about our agreement to not interfere in politics?' asks Kohryu, uttering the name 'King of Bel' with respect. 'King of Bel? You were wondering if the devils of this world had something similar to him?' asks instead Odin, more curious than surprised. 'King of Bel, that was a name I haven't heard in a while' mutters Leviathan before sinking back into the depths of Makoto's soul.
'What are you talking about?' asks Makoto, not understanding what his personas are saying. 'Nothing. It isn't something which should concern you Universe, and we too. Speaking about the deads of another place and time isn't going to be of help' says Yoshitsune.
While Makoto and his personas are resolving the matter of the 'King of Bel' Grayfia looks at Zekram. "Great King, Lord Lucifer didn't inform me that you would grace us with your presence today" she says. "You are wrong Lucifuge, I didn't mean Sirzechs when I was speaking about Lord Lucifer. I was talking about our creator. The Devil himself" corrects Zekram, making a polite, yet sinister, smile.
Grayfia suppresses a frown, instead she politely nods her head before addressing Makoto, but the Great King once again interrupts her. "Messiah, you and Lord Lucifer should come to the Bael territory. Then we will head to the Capital the people will be more than welcoming to the return of their ruler. I forgot to mention it when Lord Lucifer gave me the pleasure to visit this faithful servant of his, but things changed much for the devil race he created. Not only because of the death of our four original kings".
'What is the Great King plotting?' thinks Grayfia. Yes, the Great King Faction and the current government don't have the best of relationships and are always trying to harm each other's reputation in some way or another, but... this could lead to another Civil War. 'Morning Star. Are you trying to take control of the devils?' asks Odin, not surprised by Lucifer's actions in case this was the reason behind this.
'Me? No. I have no interest in governing ants. These devils need a miracle not someone like myself. Instead if you are asking if I am making the Universe their ruler, then my answer is yes. The Attendant is doing it too with the not so hateful copy of Azazel and his Grigori while Izanagi will conquer the shinto gods' states Lucifer, misunderstanding greatly the actions of both Elizabeth and Izanagi.
'Makoto is not a politician' say in unison Thanatos and Messiah. 'Ahahahah. Morning Star you are completely misunderstanding the intentions of both the Attendant and Izanagi' laughs Apollo, not believing Lucifer really said what he just heard. 'THEN WHAT!?' roars the Morning Star, having enough of being played around by the other personas. 'YOU WANT TO PUT AN END TO THE MADDENING ACTIONS OF NYARLATHOTEP!? START DO SOMETHING'. Lucifer's thundering voice full of rage and disgust sends a jolt of pain to Makoto's head.
'Lucifer isn't completely wrong. I too was wondering about it'. While Makoto says this, Grayfia and Zekram notice the boy's change. "Lord Yuki are you doing alright?" asks Grayfia. "It is the first time in the Underworld for you Messiah, right? It can be difficult to accustom onself" points out Zekram. "Take me to the place where the Rating Game is going to be projected. And all of you shut up for the time being" tells Makoto, ordering the last part to his personas.
Hearing Makoto's tone Grayfia doesn't protest and leads the way. "We'll speak at a later date" says the blue messiah to Zekram which nods his head, satisfied with what he heard.
'He doesn't fear giving orders. You are right my Lord he will be the best leader for our race' thinks Zekram as he leaves the Runeas Arena. At first, even if it was his creator saying it, he was skeptical. Giving a human boy the control of the Underworld? Heretical. But after seeing him? He was really the other self of Lucifer. "I just need to be patient, right? I have all the patience in the world and beyond".
"Grayfia who was he?" asks Makoto. "Zekram Bael, the ancestor of the Bael House and the shadow leader of the Great King Faction, the opposition to the government of the New Satans" explains Grayfia. Makoto nods his head and speaks to his personas again. 'Lucifer, how much of this were you aware of?'. 'Everything' replies the Devil. 'Ok. Let's watch Ito and the others now'.
04/28/2012, Runeas Arena, Morning.
"Calm down Rias, you are too nervous" says Akeno looking at the crimson haired princess while trying to ease her with a shoulder massage. "Your shoulders are hard as rock, come on breathe and relax" says the queen feeling the entire body of the Gremory trembling for the nervousness.
"I know Akeno, but this is probably the most critical day of my life. If we win, not only the marriage contract with Riser will be over but I will make a great debut. I fear not only my family and the Phenex house is present her today. While if we lose... I will also shame myself infront of the whole Underworld" sighs Rias.
While the Rating Game isn't an official one and there will be no live recordings it's uncertain if someone will manage to sneak inside and witness to the match. A Rating Game of a member of the Phenex House members has always been an acclaimed and appreciated show for the devil audience.
On the other side of the stadium the Phenex peerage is waiting for the automatic teleportation magic to take them inside the dimension. "Listen here everyone" says Riser. "Let's end this quickly so we can be home for lunch okay? I don't want to waste anymore time with Rias' childish tantrums" after saying this Riser strokes a lock of his hair, ready to put up a show for the public.
"Moreover I want to show to all the Underworld I am just as good as my brother Ruval" he adds, making Ravel to sigh. "Are you still thinking about the lesson brother gave you?" she asks reminiscing a beating the older son of Lord Blazalon Phenex gave to Riser.
"Obviously not!" remarks Riser, his voice louder than he wanted. "I am simply stating the truth here" he insists, avoiding to specify anything else about the heir of the Phenex House and one of the greatest Rating Games players. "If you say so" dismisses the matter Ravel with a roll of her eyes.
[Both peerages please stand on the teleportation platform. The Rating Game is starting in 3... 2... 1...]
"This is... Kuoh Academy? President why are we at school?" asks Irumi as soon as the peerages are sent to the dimension where the Rating Game will take place: a replica one to one of Kuoh Academy. "Riser conceded to let me choose our battleground" replies Rias with a bitter remark. Riser leaving her deciding the shape of the pocket dimension hurting her pride. "But it will cost him greatly" she adds, happy to at least have the advantage of knowing the place much better than the enemy.
"Good morning. My name is Grayfia Lucifuge, servant of the Gremory House. I've been tasked by both the House Phenex and Gremory to be the referee of this Rating Game. Taking into consideration the opinions of Lord Riser and Lady Rias, the Rating Game dimension is an exact replica of the Kuoh Academy in the human world" comes the voice of Grayfia, geard throughout all the dimension.
"The peerages have been sent to their respective headquarters. Lady Rias' one is in the Occult Research Clubroom located in the Old School Building on the south. Lord Riser's headquarters are instead in the Principal's office on the north. Pawns will be able to promote uon reaching the enemy base" ends Grayfia.
"Senpai take this" Koneko gives Irumi a red auricular. "We'll use this to communicate with each others across the battlefield" explains Rias. "Without further delays. Let the Rating Game begin".
"President what is our plan of action?" asks Kiba as all the peerage is gathered around Rias' desk in the ORC, where the planimetry of the academy is laid on.
"Riser is in the New School Building. As you know there are two main ways to arrive there" points out Rias examining the blueprint. "Let's just burst through the main entrance! It is an open space we don't risk being ambushed, no?" suggests Irumi. "That's true, but we have a number disadvantage. Better not to risk it" observes Rias dismissing the plan. "What about passing through the athletic field and the back entrance?" wonders instead Kiba, showing the path he's suggesting on the map.
"I think the Phenex would expect it. Attacking the rear is too obvious" says Akeno. "We must be careful about the queen, she outranges most of us" says Koneko. "I think they will probably try to charge at us and. When you are exceeding the enemy 3 to 1 is the most logic thing to do" says Irumi, surprising the others. "That's smart... I didn't expect it coming from you Senpai" saya Koneko.
"Yeah did you see? Master Kohryu explained it to me!" says proud of herself the Red Dragon Empress. 'This is your first real battle partner. The first of many. Don't be reckless' warns Ddraig. 'Yeees' mentally replies Irumi with a sigh.
"Following Irumi's reasoning Riser will certainly send against us his pawns and maybe even his high-speed knights" theorizes Rias. "I suggest we take the gymnasium. It is in the center of the school ground, and from there we can reach the New School Building easily". Rias nods at Kiba's plan. "Like the center of the chessboard" murmurs the heiress between herself. "Right. We have a plan. In a closed space like that a rook is a better choice than a knight". Rias then looks at Koneko. "Koneko do you think you can handle it? Just in case Irumi, go with her" orders Rias.
"Akeno place a curtain of defensive spells around the building, while Yuuto. You scout for the position of our adversaries. When we will have a view of their movements Koneko and Irumi can move towards the gymnasium. Is everything clear?" asks Rias. "Yes!" shout her peerage as they depart for their assigned tasks.
04/28/2012, VIP booth, Morning.
With the offical beginning of the Rating Game, Makoto finally arrived to the VIP booth after Grayfia showed him the way before going to referee the match. "Makooo!" Serafall rushes to hug the messiah as soon as she sees him. "How are you feeling? Did the Bael Ancestor put bad thoughts in your head?" Serafall squeezes Makoto, who ignores the Leviathan accepting her antics.
"You must be Makoto Yuki. Nice to meet you, I am Sirzechs Gremory". The figure of the crimson Satan enters the room, offering his hand to Makoto while taking Serafall by her collar. "Sera, please control yourself" calmly says Surzechs in a casual tone. Makoto shakes back Sirzechs' hand, but before the three of them can say anything else the transmission of the Rating Game begins with a large magical screen appearing to cast the match and Grayfia's voice starting to explain the Game's rules.
'Fancy! I can see myself doing a lot of beautiful performances thanks to a technology like this!' exclaims Cendrillon. 'Oh, that's Akeno! Go Akeno!' rejoices the Ash Princess. On the screen Akeno is seen setting up a series of traps and defensive spells aided by her familiar. 'Sheeee's just playing with her aniiimal' screeches Fafnir, not understanding what Rias is doing. 'No, hee hoo. She is safeguarding their base, hee hoo' explains Jack Frost. 'Jackie did you teach her doing it? I am quite sure I didn't cover anything like that' asks Cendrillon. 'You were busy wreaking havoc. 'Safeguard' isn't in your dictionary, girl' remarks Odin. 'That's not true! Universe Odin is being mean to me' whines Cendrillon.
The scenery shown on the screen then changes to the Phenex peerage. The two knights of Riser, Karlamine and Siris, are heading towards the Old School Building. The camera shifts to look at Kiba, who's lying in ambush near the position of the two Phenex knights. "Is Grayfia managing the broadcasting too?" asks Makoto, turning back towards Sirzechs and Serafall. "Grayfia is only doing the referee. It is actually Sona conveying the Rating Game" replies Sirzechs.
04/28/2012, Rating Game Dimension, Morning.
"President, the enemies are reaching the Old School Building illusion" says Kiba to Rias using the auricular. "How many of them?" asks Rias. "Two, both knights. They seem to be alone I am not seeing anyone else" replies the blonde. "Good. Once they will discover the illusion take care of them. Then Koneko and Irumi will have free roam towards the gymnasium".
"Is this their base?" questions Karlamine. The first knight of Riser's peerage has light brown hair hidden by a white headband with green eyes. Covering her body is a full set of silver armour, resembling both a medieval european armour and a samurai one. Around her belt she carries a dagger and a backsword. "Siris, should we burst in?" asks the girl to her fellow knight.
"Now that we found them, we only need to gain enough time for the others to arrive. Isabela and Mihae should be just behind us" replies Siris, looking around herself. Siris, more than Karlamine, is a tall girl with very long blue hair tied in five ponytails which almost reach the ground. She carries a big zweihander on her back. "Don't you find it strange that we didn't see any of the Gremory's servants yet?". Siris' doubt is soon proven right as the Old School Building in front of them disappears, revealing the illusion.
"A trap!?".
The two knights look at their feet as the magic circle of the Gremory House appears beneath them. "I am sorry knights of the Phenex peerage. I am afraid your Game is over, you have fallen into one of the traps placed by our queen. You can't escape" says Kiba, revealing himself to the two knights. "Don't be so full of yourself! I am Karlamine, proud knight of Lord Riser!" snarls Karlamine unsheathing her weapon. "You are two versus one. Don't celebrate too soon" says instead Siris. "Apologies. I didn't mean to disrespect you. I am Kiba Yuuto, knight of Rias Gremory" answers Kiba, bowing respectfully before commencing their clash.
Karlamine with her weapon firmly in her hand sprints towards Kiba to make try and disarm him, but her opponent is quick to dodge the attempt at taking off his weapom. Before the blonde can attack Karlamine to her side, however, Siris jumps in the fight hovering her two-handed sword over her head aiming at the enemy in front of her. "Sword Birth!". Kiba summons a wall of blades to block the incoming attack from Siris who smashes against the 'shield' of swords destroying it, but without scratching Kiba. "Sword Birth? You have a Sacred Gear?" asks Siris getting back on her feet.
Siris' attack gave Karlamine time to reposition herself behind Kiba as she's able to make a second attack, but this time the blonde jumps away from the danger. "Fire Sword!" Kiba summons a saber made of an orange metal which immediately is set ablaze. "We are servants of the Phenex House, using flames against us won't help you!" shouts Siris, her two-handed sword clashing against Kiba's saber. "Karlamine now!". Hearing her comrade Karlamine tries to stab Kiba with her dagger, as the blonde is occupied with preventing Siris' sword to harm him.
However, instead of seeming preoccupied, Kiba smirks satisfied. "Sword Birth!". Like against his last spar with Makoto Kiba summons a cloud of tuny blades to obscure the two knights' view. Then he ignites the Fire Sword again firing up the cloud of daggers with it in a chain reaction. Karlamine and Siris shout in pain as they fall on the ground, trying stop the fire as they get back on their feet.
"Yield now, there is no shame in doing that" says Kiba looking at the two girls while pointing his swords at them. "Never... we won't disappoint Lord Riser!" shouts Karlamine. Kiba nods his head and sends a wave of fire against the two knights, but Karlamine creates a gust of wind to extinguish the flames.
'She can use wind magic even though she's a knight?' thinks Kiba, destroying the Fire Sword to substitute it with the Repression Calm. "Come on Siris, it is not over! We won't surrender". "Yes! It's time for the second round!" shouts Siris, ready to commence the battle again.
'The blonde is taking too much time' says Odin. 'He's respecting his opponents by not underestimating them' retorts Yoshitsune, not agreeing with the Norse God. 'You call respect what I call naivety, samurai'. 'What All-Father, afraaid you might lose already?' creaks Fafnir.
"Messiah, what do you think of Yuuto's performance?" asks Sirzechs, trying to break the ice. Despite his exterior calmness, work of many years of politics, internally he doesn't know how to approach Makoto. Should he address him like THE Messiah? But he is just a seventeen years old human boy. But he's a friend of Rias, no? He should be far more relaxed around him. Sometimes he really wonders how can Serafall behave like she does. Well, she's Serafall that's more than enough for an answer.
"Come on Zechs! Don't treat Mako so coldly!" protests Serafall shaking the crimson Satan. "Then what?" cries Sirzechs. "Just be yourself!" pushes Serafall, similar to a mother teaching her child how to make friends. 'What am I hearing?' asks Lucifer, not believing his own ears. 'It seems every Lucifer has some quirky trait' jokes Apollo, but he doesn't receive any reaction by the Morning Star. 'Morning Star? Are you okay?' asks Thanatos. No answer from the Devil.
Back on the battlefield Kiba is withstanding the attacks of Karlamine and Siris waiting for an opportunity to strike the decisive blow.
"Karlamine! Siris!". Kiba grimaces hearing the voice of a new member of Riser's peerage. Despite the magic field disturbing the communication and magic they still managed to find him while he is still fighting the knights. The voice belongs to the maids of Riser, the pawns Marion and Burent. 'Pawns? I should still be able to fight them' thinks Kiba as he hurries to finish off Karlamine and Siris.
"Sword Birth!" shouts Kiba trying to block the pawns from reaching him. The swords sprouting from the ground slow their movements, giving Kiba enough time to prepare his next attack. "I wanted to save this for your king, but it seems I don't have the luxury anymore. Winter's Outburst!".
The temperature suddenly drops as the pristine blade appears around Kiba's hands. Karlamine and Siris try to block the incoming ice covering their face, but the snowstorm is just a distraction. Kiba targets Siris first because.of her being slower than Karlamine. Before the ponytailed girl can react the frost of Kiba's weapon take the vest of her, freezing her arms leaving space for Kiba to strike her.
'Next one'. Kiba repeats the exact same attack against Karlamine, balancing her off with the hilt of the Winter's Outburst, sending the knight to the ground. "Girls!" shout the two maids, their vision obscured by the storm. "I didn't think this weapon was so strong. Fighting against Master Yoshitsune and Senpai distorted my view" says Kiba as the maids fall too. "Two pawns and two knights of Lord Riser have been retired" declares Grayfia, confirming Kiba's victory.
"President. The area is clear, we can move on with the plan" proudly declares Kiba, smiling at himself. "Well done Yuuto! Koneko, Irumi you heard Grayfia. Head towards the gymnasium. Akeno, keep surveying the area along with Kiba from the sky" orders Rias.
"Prince Charming made it! Koneko we must not lag behind!" energetically says Irumi, full of motivation after hearing of Kiba's victory. "Yes, Senpai" answers Koneko, signaling Irumi to be quiet as they are now approaching the gymnasium stealthily.
"That... That was... Incredible! How can Kiba Yuuto be so strong!?". Saji's reaction doesn't surprise Sona and her peerage, as they too were taken aback by Kiba's win against four members of Riser peerage at the same time. Even though his peerage wasn't built to win Rating Games they weren't novices as Riser has won other matches in the past. "I didn't remember he being able of such a feat" murmurs Sona, deep in thought. 'Yuki made them improve so much in just less than two weeks' she thinks while adjusting the screens around the room with the help of Tsubaki.
'That was really good, hee hoo. The snow looked really comfy too, hee hoo' says Jack Frost complimenting Kiba's victory. 'Four to zero for me lizard' mocks Odin. 'What are you sayiiiing All-Father? We betted on who would take down the chiicken' screeches Fafnir. 'What's the matter Fafnir? Afraid of losing?' challenges Odin, calling Fafnir by his own name which upset the dragon even more. 'Fiiine. The Magiician and ol' Draiig will show you how iiit's done!' replies the metallic dragon.
"Mako did you teach Yuuto how to do it?" asks Serafall, curious about Kiba's attack since it is related to ice. "No. He came up with it alone". The Leviathan then hits Sirzechs on his side with her elbow. "Come on Zechs don't be shy" she whispers. "That was surprising considering Yuuto is just a low-class devil" says Sirzechs. "It isn't. He was already strong before I met him. He just needs to overcome whatever troubles him" says Makoto, remembering Kiba's wrathful look at the Deus Xiphos. 'While it might be true Universe. I think you are exaggerating it. Kiba Yuuto is a warrior with a warrior spirit. That's the important thing, nothing else' says Yoshitsune.
Koneko and Irumi are sneaking their way in the gymnasium, searching for the presence of any member of Riser's peerage. "If Kiba took down four people it means we are now twelve versus five, that is including Phenex" says the Red Dragon Empress, lost in her thoughts. "Senpai focus" says Koneko, snapping Irumi back to reality. 'The girl is right partner' repeats Ddraig. "Yeah sorry... it's just that today is the first time I can really do something useful since..." Irumi shakes her head not wanting to have bad thoughts in her head. Especially now.
"Senpai, over there". Koneko stops pointing towards the center of the basketball field inside the gymnasium where three girls are waiting any sort of movement. "Lady Ravel, I don't think you should stay here" says Mira to Riser's sister. "No. I am sure Lady Rias will send at least one of her servants to scout here..." replies Ravel holding her chin in thought. "Those girls..." Irumi frowns at the sight of Mira and Ravel, remembering well their first meeting hasn't been really smooth. "There is also a Rook with them" points out Koneko, looking at the chinese girl with Ravel and Mira: Xuelan.
"President what should we do?" asks Irumi, trying to not be heard by the Phenex servants. "Gather as much time as possible. When Akeno will be ready exit the gymnasium" tells Rias. "I have a very nice idea in mind. I hope Cendrillon won't be mad if I stole her attack" comes the voice of Akeno dreaming the moment when she'll strike the Phenex pieces in the gymnasium down.
"Got it. Senpai take care of the pawn and the chicken" saying this Koneko clenches her fists and jumps against Xuelan, surprising the chinese girl. "Gremory servants you finally show yourself! I will defeat you for both Lord Riser and avenging our fallen friends!" shouts Xuelan aiming a kick against Koneko which thr nekomata blocks using her arms as a shield.
"Red Dragon Empress" says Mira wielding her bo staff with both hands and rotatig it. "The Red Dragon Empress and Lady Rias' rook. Just like I thought she sent half of her peerage here. I usually don't fight, but if it is against you Red Dragon Empress I can make an exception" says Ravel starting to form a ball of fire in her left hand. "I said I am sorry for what happened last week come on!" says Irumi, but she can't add anything else that Mira already is charging towards her. "Ddraig I need a bit of help here!".
{BOOST!}
"Perfect!" Irumi claps her hands sending a shockwave towars Mira which forces the pawn to stop herself to not be sent flying away. 'She's stronger than before' notices Mira, surprised by the change in strength in Irumi. Riser's pawn grips her staff and rotates it in front of herself, taking a more defensive stance. "I will show you once again your place Red Dragon Empress!".
Koneko is dodging the furious swipes of Xuelan kicks, but in doing so she's been slowly moving towards the wall making her movement space smaller and smaller. Noticing this the nekomata grabs the other rook's leg and, thanks to her momentum and own strength, flips over Xuelan slamming her to the ground like in a wrestling match. Xuelan grunts in pain, but refuses to yield.
"You are a strong rook I concede that, but I am too angry to let you win like this!" roars Xuelan. Koneko tries to throw a punch at Xuelan who replies with a fist herself. The clenched hands of the two rooks collide against each other with both of them trying to overcome the other.
The two fighters are even in sheer power so none of them is able to break through the other's defense. The fight between Koneko and Xuelan continues like that. Fist against fist. Kick against kick. Elbow against elbow. Knee against knee. 'I just need to gain some more time. Senpai Akeno should be here soon' thinks Koneko as she takes a look towards Irumi to check on her.
{BOOST!}
Irumi is still fighting Mira, while doing her best to avoid being accidentally burnt by Ravel's spells who fortunately seem to not being too successful on hitting Rias' pawn as the magic flames hit almost everything, but their target. "Stay still!" shouts Ravel angry at Irumi not being hit by her spells and by her own lack of aim. Mira throws her staff to Irumi, coordinated with Ravel who sends a bolt of fire to the Red Dragon Empress. "Wrong choice! Rhythm: Uno Due!" shouts Irumi. The shockwave destroys Mira's staff and diverts Ravel's spell. "Now it's my turn!" Irumi runs towards Mira with the lasting sound barrier around her preventing any type of of hit from the pawn and Ravel to reach her and punches her with the Boosted Gear in the stomach.
{BOOST!}
Exactly like how Mira did with Irumi in the Occult Research Club, the Red Dragon Empress tosses her opponent towards the ceiling causing the pawn to cough up blood before falling to the ground. "Ddraig I did it!" shouts Irumi. 'Well done partner' congratulates the dragon. "One pawn of Lord Riser has been retired" declares Grayfia. "Koneko, Irumi. Akeno has arrived exit the gymnasium as fast as possible!" orders Rias.
'Seeee old man? The Magiician is catching up' creaks Fafnir, trusting Irumi to make him win the bet with Odin. "This must be the most unique usage of the Boosted Gear I've ever seen or heard about" comments Sirzechs. "That's because Ito is a genius, she doesn't seem so but inside her there is a fire burning trying to achieve for her dreams" says Makoto in a serious tone. 'Attaining one's dream requires a stern will and unfailing determination' comments Ryoji, remembering Nyx's words about the Magician Arcana.
Sirzechs looks at the screen showing the figure of Irumi. "This generation's Red Dragon Empress. Rias really reincarnated an interesting person" tells the crimson Satan. "Good job Zechs" whispers Serafall, smiling and making thumbs up at Sirzechs for being able to strike a conversation with Makoto. The current Lucifer faceplams in shame for both himself and Serafall. 'I have never made such a bad gaffe in my entire life. It almost seems like I am the young devil I was before the Civil War once again' thinks Sirzechs.
Akeno just arrived above the gymnasium and is patiently waiting for Irumi and Koneko to exit the building ao she can level it and forcing the other two pieces to retire. "I am getting quite eager up here" says Akeno licking her lips. An explosion is sent against Akeno, taking Rias' queen by surprise hitting her. "Akeno!" shouts Rias. "Akeno, you receive me?" asks the Gremory heiress. 'Akeno!' shouts Cendrillon causing a jolt of pain to Makoto's head.
"The Bomb Queen..." mutters Akeno as she stands up, looking above she sees Yubelluna flying over her. "Thunder Priestess. I'm afraid I can't let you do as you please. Especially with Lady Ravel inside the gymnasium" says Riser's Queen. "It just means I have to change target" smiles Akeno.
"Change of plans everybody! If Riser sent his queen it means he's not playing around anymore. I will take him by surprise and crush his spirit! His body might be immortal, but his mind isn't!" declares Rias.
"President it's too dangerous!" protest Kiba, but the heiress doesn't withdraw her idea. "He doesn't expect it. Trust me". "We will take out his other leerage members President! Go and defeat him for us too!" says Irumi, trusting Rias.
"Guys, the rest of Phenex peerage is coming towards the gymnasium. I will try to intercept them" informs Kiba. With Koneko fighting Xuelan, Irumi facing Ravel and Akeno clashing against Yubelluna with Kiba and Rias trying to make a surprise attack, the Rating Game enters its second phase.
Xuelan takes advantage of the surrounding area, tearing off one of the gymnasium seats and launching it at Koneko. The young nekomata kicks the incoming obstacle and sends it to the side of the gymnasium. "Your queen will soon fall to Yubelluna. You are not going to win this" says Xuelan. "Don't underestimate Senpai Akeno" replies Koneko.
{BOOST!}
The sound barrier around Irumi keeps on maintaining her safe from Ravel's fire making her able to close the distance with the bishop. 'Partner you don't have enough-'. However, before Ddraig can end his phrase and Irumi can reach Ravel a shockwave originates from the lightings of Akeno and the explosions of Yubelluna clashing starts to quake the gymnasiumz making the whole structure to tremble dangerously. 'This is gonna be our grave if we don't get out of here' thinks Irumi looking at the exit of the building. "Koneko!". The nekomata understands the danger, but Xuelan pins her on the ground by jumping against her. "You won't get out of here" says Xuelan as a flake of plaster falls beside them from the ceiling of the gymnasium.
One of the lights hanged on the ceiling crashes to the ground, missing Irumi by a few centimeters. "That was too close" says the Red Dragon Empress, shifting her attention from Ravel to Koneko. "Senpai, go" says Koneko, but the pawn doesn't listen to her as she rushes to free Koneko from Xuelan's clutches.
Outside the gymnasium Akeno and Yubelluna are fighting in the air, shooting against each other their spells. "It seems your tactic is retorting against you, Thunder Priestess" says Yubelluna looking down at the crumbling gymnasium. Akeno clicks her tongue as a chain of lighting appears on her hands. "Let's see if you can resist a bit of electrocution, Bomb Queen". The magic, steonger than Riser's queen expected, bumps directly into Yubelluna which falls to the ground. "You are really strong, Thunder Priestess. However, that was your last spell of that strength" comments Yubelluna.
"I will be back in shape with just a bit of rest, now it is time for us to depart Bomb Queen. It's over" replies Akeno smirking descending to finish off the enemy queen. "I wouldn't be so sure" Yubelluna smirks as she takes out a bottle. "That's! Phoenix's Tears?" gasps Akeno.
Irumi launches herself towards Koneko, but before she, or the sound barrier surrounding her, can reach the nekomata the entire gymnasium falls on them. "Koneko!" shouts Irumi as her vision is obscured by the debris of the building. "One rook of Lord Riser and one rook of Lady Rias have been retired" announces Grayfia.
'The Hanged is fine right?' asks Kohryu. "Where is the place the retired are sent to?" asks Makoto to the two Satans. "To the infirmary section of the stadium" replies Sirzechs. "Where is it? I am going to heal them" says Makoto heading towards the exit of the VIP booth. "Mako are you sure you want to go now?" asks Serafall. 'I agree with Serafall Makoto' says Messiah. 'I am sure the Priestess and the Magician would prefer if you watched them until the end, hee hoo' adds Jack Frost. Makoto grits his teeth, but understands Jack Frost's reasoning. 'They will be fine' says Ryoji. 'I hope so'. With that decided Makoto turns back to watch the Rating Game.
"Ito!" shouts Kiba as he runs towards the crumbled gymnasium. "Yuuto, what happened?" asks Rias from the auricular. "The gymnasium fell apart and Koneko was taken out by it. Ito is still somewhere buried here" replies Kiba starting to search for the pawn. "Reunite with Akeno and search for Irumi together!" orders Rias, but her hopes are soon destroyed. "Lady Rias' queen has been retired". Rias and Kiba pale at the announcement when a loud explosion and the falling Akeno are seen with Yubelluna, now completely healed flying over the destroyed gymnasium.
"It's over knight of Gremory" declares Ravel. "You are surrounded". The rest of Riser's peerage. His five remaining pawns and his bishop appear around Kiba's position with Yubelluna and Ravel ready to finish Kiba off. "President... Sorry" apologizes Kiba, accepting his defeat and closing the communication with Rias. 'Are we too weak?' asks himself Kiba, his right hand trembling. 'Am I once again not able to help my friends?'. Kiba gulps as he looks at the Phenex peerage surrounding him.
04/28/2012, VIP booth, Morning.
Sirzechs looks down, not wanting to see the miserable sight in front of himself. "Zechs..." murmurs Serafall, her tone sad too. "What are you doing?" asks Makoto, hands in his pockets looking at the two Satans right in their eyes. Sirzechs and Serafall look at him surprised. "Are you stopping believing in Rias?" he asks. "N-no..." replies Sirzechs stuttering, causing him to shut his mouth with his hand when he notices it.
"As long as someone believes in you there is always hope. Even if it the undeniable you are up against. A man once said me that with my power nothing is beyond the realm of possibilities. You know what? It's false. It is not the power of the Universe Arcana. It is the power of believing in each other. Despite all the difficulties and challenges to continue to believe in who you love. Hope won't die as long as even one person believes in it. And you won't lose as long as one person believes in you". Looking at Makoto Serafall and Sirzechs doesn't see a boy. They see a beacon. A beacon far brighter than anything else. Hope... this is what they lost. This is what they stopped believing in.
Before the birth of her sister Serafall hated her life. It was dull and boring. She stopped believing in herself and the others. The world stopped having its colours. Only with Sona coming into her life she was able to remember the beauty of the world, but she was still afraid. So afraid of losing that fragile spark of hope. Afraid of seeing it dying out. Now she's seeing that spark becoming a bonfire and then a burning blaze.
Sirzechs once believed in ideals far higher than his current actions. Before the Civil War he believed in peace and harmony. He really was an optimistic person always convinced that all will turn out good. Then the war came and it changed all. After that he became Lucifer to try and maintain the peace they fought so hard for, but the work of a Satan drained himself. He saw the most brutal political schemes.
He had to deal with factions ready to destroy his own race and make his peace disappear. When he could not help his sister due to his position as Satan Lucifer he was completely destroyed. He could not even save his little, innocent sister from the horrors of the world. He was so afraid of speaking with Makoto because he feared ruining the only chance at peace they still had.
But. He, Sirzechs Gremory, and she, Serafall Sitri. They are bearing witness to the answer to their innermost fears. In front of them there is the key to reach the world they desired so much when they became Satans. A Messiah. A saviour who would reunite everyone under the same banner. "You are right Yuki. I won't let my Rias down. Can I call you such?" asks Sirzechs, his eyes shiny from the tears building up. "Thank you so much Makooo!" sobs Serafall hugging Makoto. "Yes, call me what you like" replies Makoto.
'I am Thou. Thou art I. Thou hast established a new bond. Thou shalt have the Universe blessing when choosing to create personas of the Devil Arcana'.
04/28/2012, Rating Game Dimension, Morning.
"Yuuto! Answer me! What happened!? Yuuto!" shouts Rias. "Are you finally understanding the reality of the situation Rias?" asks Riser. The two high-class devils are facing each other on the roof of the New School Building. "The only reality here is that you will lose Riser!" shouts back Rias shooting a bolt of destruction towards Riser which tanks it and soon regenerates from.
"Ehy Prince Charming" Irumi manages to free herself from the debris covering her as the forst things she sees is Kiba looking around himself, Winter's Outburst in his hand. "Ito!" shouts Kiba looking at the Red Dragon Empress. Irumi gets on her feet and slaps Kiba's face. "Did I hear you giving up!? What would Senpai think of us if he... No! He's seeing us do you want to give up so easily? Because I won't! I promised the President I would have take her out of this bullshit and that's what I'll do!" declares Irumi. 'Well said Partner! Show them your resolve! Show them what a dragon really looks like!' praises Ddraig. "Yeah... I won't go down without a fight" confirms Kiba as he and Irumi get ready to fight the resto of Riser's peerage.
{BOOST!}
"Oh, Sword Birth and Boosted Gear together. What a peculiar duo" comments Ravel. Riser's pawns start to attack Kiba and Irumi along with Isabela while.the other bishop, Mihae, supports them with magic spells. "I am going to assist Lord Riser" says Yubelluna to Ravel.
{BOOST!}
"This isn't good. Ito do you think you can reach the President and help her?" asks Kiba. "And what about you?" asks back Irumi as she punches a girl wielding a chainsaw. "I will take as much enemies as possible down with me" says Kiba ready to give his all for a last gamble. "Let me help then! Ddraig explained me a special ability of the Boosted Gear, but I need something. Can you create a guitar-sword with your Sacred Gear?" asks smirking the Red Dragon Empress.
{BOOST!}
"Ehm... I think so? What do you want to do?". "Just prepare your strongest attack!". After she says it Kiba creates a red sword with its hilt being the body of a guitar and the blade itself having green felts on it, as such the colours match with the Boosted Gear. "That's incredible! Ddraig turn up the volume!" shouts Irumi smiling widely as she hits a solo. 'This is the strangest thing someone has ever done with the Boosted Gear' states Ddraig. "Now Kiba! Booster Guitar: Empowering!".
{TRANSFER!}
The blonde knight feels the power of the Boosted Gear flowing through his veing as he lets out a battle cry and digs Winter's Outburst deep into the ground. "WINTER'S OUTBURST!" an much more powerful snowstorm start to ravage the area surrounding the two young devils as blades made out of ices pops from the groudn and stab the Phenex peerage members. "Five pawns of Lord Riser have been retired".
"See? What have I said you? Ito is a genius" says Makoto looking surprised at the screen. 'If Orpheus was here I bet he would be green with jealousy' laughs Ryoji. 'Waiiiit this counts as points for Odiiin? it was clearly the Magiiiician's doing!' protests Fafnir. 'Accept your loss lizard' chuckles Odin. 'It was team work that made them succeed All-Father. We must admit it' accepts Yoshitsune. 'Now it's the Priestess' time to show herself, hee hoo' announces Jack Frost. 'I DON'T HEAR ENOUGH ENERGY FROM YOU!' shouts Cendrillon. 'Say Hip Hip Hooray!' demands Cendrillon. Silence. 'Hee Hee Hoo!' exults instead Jack Frost.
'Partner you pushed yourself beyond your capabilities. You can't take anymore boosts' alerts Ddraig. 'We need to at least even the ground for the President' replies Irumi, as she gasps for air feeling the strain of the overuse of ber Sacred Gear. "Ito? Can you keep fighting?". Despite his words Kiba is at his extreme too as he barely manages to stand still. "Let's do it one last time. Does it sound good, Prince Charming?" asks the Red Dragon Empress. Kiba nods his head and delves into battle one last time side by side with his comrade and friend. "One pawn and one knight of Lady Rias and one rook and one bishop of Lord Riser have been retired".
"My servants aren't to be joked around Riser! Your entire peerage isn't worth half of mine!" declares Rias, pointing her finger towards Riser. "Uh? It doesn't change the fact you can't beat my Rias. I am an immortal Phenex! You should accept the truth Rias, just give up. This is a checkmate. You are alone now, all your servants have been defeated" tells Riser, his hands in his pockets. "Don't make me laugh Riser. As long as the king is standing it's not a checkmate" retorts Rias when Yubelluna lands besides Riser. "Step aside Luna. I am going to teach a lesson to my dear Rias personally". Riser walks towards Rias. "Teaching a lesson to me? No, I will be the one to teach a lesson today". Rias too walks towards Riser their wings fully spread.
"A final duel?" asks Tsubaki looking at the screen displaying the two devils ready to fight each other to the death. "Senpai Gremory won't lose, right?" asks Momo. 'A one on one against Riser? Was this what you wanted from the start Rias?' thinks Sona, without leaving her eyes from the screen.
In the VIP booth there isn't a sound. Makoto, Sirzechs and Serafall are all waiting to see the final showdown of the Rating Game.
"So you are not going to surrender? If it's possible I would like to not hurt you Rias" says Riser. "Silence! After everything they have done for me I will not yield!". Rias creates a disc of destruction and launches it at Riser cutting of his hand, but it regenerates almost immediately.
From the VIP booth Sirzechs frowns. "Is there a problem?" asks Makoto noticing the Satan's change. "Immortality, the clan trait of the Phenex House shouldn't be able to regenerate this fast from the effects of the Power of Destruction, not matter how weak the demonic power of its user might be. And Rias isn't low on demonic power by any means" says Sirzechs, as the most proficient and knowledgeable, along with Zekram Bael, regarding the Power of Destruction. "What do you mean?" asks Serafall. "I don't know. A mutation maybe? But Riser Phenex isn't a prodigy like his brother Ruval or else Lord Phenex would have shown him around like a jewel of his house" ponts out Sirzechs.
"This was your choice Rias" says Riser, having enough of this foolery he considered the Rating Game be. Riser calls forth the crest of his House, from which a wave of flames emanates, by pointing his right arm in Rias' direction with his palm open he controls the flow of the flames, using his own arm as a flamethrower. The Gremory starts flying around to avoid being struck by Riser's fire.
"Flying around is useless Rias. Stop wasting my and your time alike. Remember the benefits the Underworld and the devil race will gain from our engagement. It is our duty as devils ensuring our race will prosper" says Riser. "The devil race? My duty as a devil? You are wrong Riser! You know nothing of what a devil is!" shouts the Gremory continuing her bombardment of magic against Riser. "What is this childish nonsense Rias?".
A fireball from Riser clashes with a Sphere of demonic power from Rias. The two large magic orbs slowly eating each other with the fire hot and powerful enough to resist Rias' magic.
"I couldn't care less if this marriage is for the 'sake of the Underworld' or to gloat your own overgrown ego! I am Rias Gremory and I won't bend down to yours will or anyone's will! This is what means to be a devil! This is what means to be your own person!" shouts Rias shooting a spear of destruction that pierces Riser's overgrowing fireball, slinging relentlessly towards his chest. "Lord Riser's queen has been retired" declares Grayfia as the cameras show the figure of Yubelluna taking the hit instead of Riser.
'The Priestess has finally chosen to follow her will and tread a path of thorns' comments Lucifer, liking Rias' answer to Riser. 'You seem excited Morning Star?' asks Apollo. 'Just cheer for the Priestess Apollo!' encourages Cendrillon.
"Yubelluna!". Riser looks wildly at Rias, blinded by anger. "I've offered you a peaceful way to get out of this Rias! Now I will not refrain to use force" he groans starting to toss bigger and bigger spheres of fire to the devil heiress. Riser's rage doesn't let him aim properly letting Rias to dodge the fatal flames. 'Since when was he able to use the Hell Fire so well?' asks herself Rias surprised by the sheer intensity of Riser's power.
The two high-class devils keep on exchanging magic spells, with Riser overpowering Rias' ones forcing the girl to move defensively. However one of those attacks behaves like an hand granade and many lapillus from the nearly exploted fireball reach her wings, causing Rias to fall down.
"I am not... done yet" gasps Rias looking at the smirking Riser. "You can't fly anymore Rias. You could yield now, but I won't let you". Once again Riser sends a sphere of flames towards Rias, but now the attack is unavoidable for the red-haired. Rias looks at the incoming flame, feeling its burning heat on her skin.
"Extinguishing Star!". Rias figures the picture of the Star Lucifer ignited in her soul. She imagines it burning bright as she calls the magic circle of her house. Rias puts all her remaining reserves of demonic power into this ultimate, desperate, attack. A globe of dark destructive energy radiating flares of magic, all similar to a Solar flare. The collision of the two abilities, on one side the Hell Fire and, on the tmother side, the Power of Destruction results in the win of the former with the Extinguishing Star reversing the fate of the battle.
04/28/2012, Old Satan Faction Headquarters, Morning.
"Truly interesting" says Nyarlathotep as he too has been watching the Rating Game to keep an eye on his experiment: Riser. Instead of using the hidden cameras inside the Rating Game dimension they are using the flies created by Shadow Shalba using the King of the Flies which he sent to spy inside the Runeas Arena.
"The effects of the Reverse Persona are starting to be seen" points out Shalba standing right by Nyarlathotep sitting on an armchair. "He will still lose by this rate" states Nyarlathotep. "And is not that what we want? So that the Priestess' bond with the Universe can continue to grow" asks Shalba. "Indeed we need Makoto to nurture his bonds so he will be at his strongest when the first part of the Prophecy will be fulfilled. However I don't want to waste the opportunity of meeting the Universe as Jun Kurosu at the wedding of Riser Phenex" says Nyarlathotep opening the Shadow Compendium. "Isn't it too soon to do such a thing Father?" asks Shalba looking at the Crawling Chaos' movements through the book. "We will see it ourselves" declares Nyarlathotep, stopping on the page of the Reverse Phoenix.
"Reverse Phoenix Awaken".