04/20/2012, Kuoh Academy, After School.
As usual the bell rings to mark the end of the lessons and Makoto stands up from his seat stretching his legs and arms. "Yuki, I want to thank you again for our last chat. It was very useful" says Sona before Makoto can leave the classroom. "I assume you invited the person you were talking about then" answers Makoto, without obviously giving too much details about the peerage part. Sona nods her head. "Yes, his name is Genshirou Saji, a second year. He's too now part of the Student Council". "I hope what I told you will reveal as good as I hope" honestly replies Makoto. Before speaking again Sona ponders for a couple of seconds about her next words. "Yuki, it may sound selfish, but may I ask you to help him out like you do with Ito? When you have time obviously" asks Sona.
Makoto frowns not clearly understanding what Sona's implying. "Are you sure I can be of help? I'm not even sure if what I'm doing with Ito is having is giving fruits either". "Yes, of course it will surely be useful to say the least. Genshirou too has a dragon Sacred Gear like Ito after all" says Sona, explaining her reasoning. "Are Dragon Sacred Gears really so important?" asks Makoto in a low voice to not be heard by anyone besides Sona.
"You can't imagine how much, let me explain. You see Dragons are the strongest beings in our world after all and one of them, even if inside a Sacred Gear, becoming part of a devil's peerage is always an important event. He isn't someone like the Red Dragon Emperor Ddraig Ito has, but it is still a big result for my peerage and House". "Ok, I'll see what I can do. Now I have to go searching for Ryoji". Makoto and Sona greet each others goodbye as they go separate ways.
"Senpai!" Makoto hears the enthusiastic voice of Irumi calling him. "Ito, how are you doing?" asks politely Makoto interested about the Magician's wellbeing. "After Saturday's training Ddraig forced me to take some time off. He said I was overdoing, but now I feel more energetic than ever" says the red dragon empress. "Good for you, but he's not wrong don't overdo. I speak for experience" says Makoto thinking back at all the times he went to Tartarus without taking days off, sometimes even alone... with immeasurable amount of scolding by Mitsuru following soon after. But he had to do it. And he would do it all over again. It was for his friends' sake after all.
"Yes. Yes. You are speaking like old Ddraig now" jokes Irumi. "Senpai do you want to come to the Occult Research Club? I'm sure everyone would like you being there" she then adds smiling. "Sorry, but I need to search for Ryoji" says Makoto, but Irumi stops him by taking his arm. "Senpai Mochizuki should be at the club too. He's spending much time there lately, especially with the President. Do you know if there is something between them?" asks honestly Irumi.
'Death and the Priestess? Are we joking?' says Apollo, ready to gossip about it. 'Thanatos isn't so reckless. He knows he can't permit himself to do such things' points out Orpheus Telos. Leviathan murmurs without speaking any word. 'Leviathan are you fine, hee hoo?' asks Jack Frost to the whale persona. No answer comes from the biblical monster just some indistinguishable gurglings.
'We shouldn't think about these matters' says Yoshitsune finding this gossiping started by Apollo a waste of time. 'Apollo if you are so curious just ask Thanatos' tells Kohryu. 'Leet's follow the Magician I want to speeeaak with Ddraaaig' screeches Fafnir eager to meet the red dragon. 'I for once agree with the lizard. Let's go there and stop doing this childish gossiping Apollo. What are you? A god or an immature teenager?' scolds Odin.
Makoto vigorously shakes his head, his personas having manifested too many thoughts inside his mind at the same time. "Ehy Senpai are you okay?" asks worried Irumi. "Yes, yes. They are just being noisy" says Makoto. "I wonder how you can deal with so many beings talking to you at the same time. I barely manage to suffer Ddraig. Jeez he's like an old grandpa at times" whines the Magician. 'Nice joke partner' tells mentally Ddraig to Irumi, a little annoyed. 'Come on! don't take it so seriously!' replies the girl complaining about it.
After a while Makoto and Irumi decide to head to the Old School Building. 'Universe why are you searching for Death?' asks Orpheus Telos. 'I want to ask him if he knows what Elizabeth is plotting' replies Makoto. 'Are you suspecting the Attendant Universe?' asks in a dead serious tone Lucifer, his voice sending chills down a certain greek Sun God spine. 'No, but I don't like when she doesn't tell me straight what she thinks' answers Makoto. He would never doubt Elizabeth, but sometimes he hates how she behaves. Since their arrival here in this world his loved attendant has been way less cryptic with him, but it's still clear she doesn't tell everything to him. He knows she isn't doing it with bad intentions, on the contrary, but still he wants to reveal the truth.
04/20/2012, Occult Research Club, Afternoon.
Inside the clubroom of the ORC Ryoji and Rias are talking about the latter's possible strategies against Riser Phenex. "Rias why haven't you spoke about this mess with Ito yet?" asks Ryoji. "I know you are completely right, but... I just couldn't find the way to tell her. She's been a devil for a week and I don't want to drag her in this political mess. It's just too early I don't want to shock her. It makes sense no?" answers Rias, trying to justify her choice, but she doesn't seem the most convinced too. "You still need her for this and sooner you tell her sooner she's going to understand how it works" tells Ryoji. "You're right... Satans I made a mistake once again" growls in frustration the Gremory Heiress putting her hands on her face in frustration.
Akeno enters the room with the usual tea and biscuits on a silver plate. "What's with that long face Rias? Everything's going to be fine we even have Mochizuki here to help us" says Rias' queen reassuring Rias and winking at Ryoji as she puts the food on the desk. Ryoji chuckles and looks at Rias with his best smile. "Akeno is right Rias! Don't worry we'll deal with this matter easily. We still have ten days until your marriage right?" Ryoji tries to reassure the nervous heiress.
"Look at Koneko Rias. She's fighting against her fears just to be of help" says Akeno, a bit of shame in her voice, knowing well how she is too afraid of improving herself by fighting her inner demons... Koneko is much stronger than her. How could she do it? While Koneko was doing everything in her power to help Rias, Akeno... she hates it so much.
"I know, but I'm still worried. All my life I've had the constant weight of this marriage on my sould, restraining my freedom. I just want it to be over so much" whines the red haired girl. After a while Koneko and Kiba arrive to the club as they too just finished their classes. "Yuuto do you know where Irumi is?" asks Rias to her knight wondering about the whereabouts of her pawn. The blonde shakes his head. "I didn't see her after this morning. Maybe she stopped by the Music Club" answers Kiba. "She knows to come here let's just wait for her" says Rias.
Before they can say or do anything else a circle of flames appears behind them. An orange magic circle with a stylized phoenix encased in it. The flames soon die out revealing a blonde young man with blue eyes displaying a wide cocky grin on his face, wearing a red blazer over a white shirt. His shoes are black the same as his pants while around his wrists there are two golden bracelets. Behind him fifteen girls appear too from the magic circle. "Ah good Satan!" exclaims the man, Riser Phenex the third son of the Phenex Clan. "The human world is just as hateful like I remembered, I clearly don't see why you like it so much: dear" says Riser, emphasizing the last part, smirking at Rias who just rolls her eyes in annoyance in response.
"What are you doing here, Riser?" she asks coldly, crossing her arms. The Phenex ignores Rias' tone and annoyance and gets closer to her putting his arm around her shoulder, pulling her closer to him. "Can't I stop to visit my soon to be wife? How are you doing my dear, is this puny Earth treating you well?" he asks, not exactly interested about Rias' wellbeing as he said it just as a form of pleasantry, before turning his gaze towards Ryoji. "And who are you? A new servant of yours Rias?" questions the Phenex his eyes back on Rias after quickly gazing at Ryoji. "No Riser. He's not". "I'm Ryoji Mochizuki, nice to meet you" says the Death, offering his hand to Riser in an handshake. However the noble devil refuses to shake Ryoji's hand, instead he slaps it in disgust. "Don't touch me human" says Riser full of disdain.
"Riser I ask you to respect my friend" demands Rias frowning. "Friend? This human? Uh, this makes me laugh Rias" chuckles Riser causing the tension to grow inside the room. Rias growls in anger which doesn't go unnoticed by Riser who puffs and let go of Rias' shoulder. "It's fortunate you found me in a good mood human, I shall let you go" says the Phenex pointing towards the exit door. Riser looks at Ryoji expecting him to get up, turn his heels and exit the room immediately. However Ryoji doesn't comply to the Phenex's order and doesn't move an inch out of his seat, instead he looks at Riser with his usual smile. "I don't think you are the one to decide who leaves or stays in this room, instead Rias is". Ryoji openly challenges the high class devil in front of him, making Rias' peerage, especially Akeno, to smile in amusement at the scene. Obviously trying to not be seen by Riser or his peerage.
The Phenex grits his teeth and slams his fist on Rias' desk, conjuring the characteristic Hell Flames of the Phenex's house around his hands. "HOW YOU DARE HUMAN!?" he shouts, making to grab Ryoji before Rias stops him. "Riser!" she shouts. "Mochizuki, thanks for coming here, see you soon okay?" Rias tries to resolve the situation diplomatically, by asking Ryoji to leave. The former Appraiser of the Fall looks at Rias, confused, but decides to trust her and takes his leave. As Ryoji exits the door he meets the deadly stares of Riser's peerage, especially that of his queen: Yubelluna.
Yubelluna is a tall woman with long and wavy purple hair, the same colour as her eyes, down the her back with one string of hair that covers her right eye. She's wearing a white navy cape with golden reinforcements on her shoulders. Under the cape she has a long purple dress ending in a skirt, around her chest she has a blue corset with white strings and buttons. She also wears a headband to tie her hair with an orange jewel encased in it. Yubelluna hisses at Ryoji as she seems ready to attack him for having disrespected Riser. "Yubelluna don't waste your time with that mere human" says Riser, noticing what his queen was about to do.
"Thanks" says Ryoji looking at Yubelluna as he takes the handle of the door and exits the ORC. When he is gone Riser snorts. "Humans. I can't understand why you like them and their home so much, dear" says Riser, his attention back to Rias: much to the girl's annoyance. "At least here I can be myself Riser" says Rias. "You are still in your rebellious phase dear? And here I thought you finally accepted the matters as they stand". Riser sits down and looks at the empty cup of tea on Rias' desk. "I'd like a cup of tea too" orders the Phenex smirking at Akeno. The queen slowly nods her head and makes to take another cup of tea for Riser, although reluctantly.
"I'm not in a rebellious stage. I won't marry you, no matter what" states Rias. "Rias, Rias. My dear Rias. You can't think so selfishly. Remember that this is a deal made by our respective fathers with the sake of both clans and the Underworld as a whole in mind. Remember that it's the Gremory Clan who will benefit more from this deal after all" tells Riser. "This doesn't change anything. I will marry someone I decide, the future of my house isn't at risk!" deadpans Rias, standing up from her seat and slamming her hands on the desk to make the concept clear to Riser.
The Phenex shakes his head, frowning. He stands up and takes Rias' chin to look right into her eyes, a subtle hint of threat in the Phenex's eyes. Akeno and Koneko gasp at Riser's reaction with Kiba on the line ready to stop Riser at any movement. "Rias, I am a Phenex. I'm trying to be polite and calm, but your refusal brings shame to my family name. I will bring you back to the Underworld and there's nothing you can do to stop me, am I clear?" as he says this Riser's eyes burn with flames fueled by anger. Rias' own power of destruction too is conjured in reaction to Riser's threat. However, before either of them go on the offensive the door of the ORC is slammed open with a loud noise. "President, sorry for being late! I was talking with Senpai Yuki!" shouts Irumi bowing her head to apologize. Then, she slowly takes a look up, noticing Riser and his peerage and the girl she just hit with the door.
"Lady Ravel!" shout in unison the girls of Riser's peerage seeing their master's sister being hit by the door. Riser leaves Rias' side and instantly hurries towards his sister. "I'm fine brother, it's just a door" says Ravel unscathed, her devil physiology being much sturdier than a normal wooden door. "WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE!?". Riser clenches his fist and throws it to Irumi. "Riser!" shouts Rias. "Ito care-" Kiba sprints to take Irumi out of Riser's aim, but he stops when he sees Riser's fist blocked by someone else.
"What are you doing?" asks Makoto, Riser's fist in his hand. 'I hate arrogant brats like him' says Odin. 'However we must admit he's not totally wrong All Father, it seems the girl is his sister. Universe tell my apprentice to apologize' says Kohryu. Makoto looks at Ravel who got back on her feet and then at Irumi, still holding Riser's fist. "Ito, apologize" says Makoto. "Are you ignoring me?" growls Riser, trying to free his fist effortlessly as Makoto's doesn't seem to leave the Phenex's hand. "Let go of me!" shouts Riser. Seeing this scene Rias can't but giggle.
"Ehm... sorry" says Irumi bowing her head in regret. "You attacked Lady Ravel being sorry isn't enough!" says another woman, Isabela, one of Riser's rook. Isabela is a woman with light brown hair, with three red locks and grey eyes. She's wearing what seems to be a biker outfit with a leather green jacket and black trousers. Only now Makoto lets go of Riser's fist. "Rias care to explain who are these two pests?" asks Riser almost growling like a furious animal blinded by anger, looking at Makoto with a death stare.
"She's my pawn Riser" says Rias as Akeno takes Irumi by her ear and brings her where she Koneko and Kiba were standing. "Senpai what are you doing?" asks Irumi not understanding the situation. "Just be silent Irumi" whispers Akeno. The Red Dragon Empress nods her head obeying the Queen's order. "Kiba do you know who they are?" asks whispering to the blonde the Magician. "He's Riser Phenex, third son of the Phenex Pillar House and the one you just hit is his sister Ravel Phenex" answers the blonde. "They are noble high class devils like the President?" asks gulping Irumi. Kiba just nods his head. "You were stupid Senpai" murmurs Koneko. "Sorry...".
"And who is this annoying boy?" asks Riser towering over Makoto. "He's a friend Riser" Rias' answer doesn't satisfy Riser who still looks at Makoto like he's ready to kill him. 'Makoto this situation might escalate too fast' says Orpheus Telos. 'Let it be Universe. I want to teach this insignificant brat his place. I'm not liking the way you pacifists are dealing with everything since we came here' affirms Lucifer. 'Morning Star what are you saying?' asks Apollo, not liking what Lucifer's words imply. 'Lucifer not now' says Makoto dismissing the personas. 'Universe what do you want to do?' asks Kohryu. 'Look at Rias, she's clearly uncomfortable due to this guy here. I want to understand what is going on'.
"It's like Rias said. I'm her friend, the question is who are you?". Riser spits at Makoto's feet, disgusted by his tone, finding it utterly insolent. "Listen here human as I will only tell you once and once only before I lose my temper. I am Riser Phenex, son of the great House of Phenex. It's better you leave this instant before I turn you into ashes". Riser's wings sprout from his back. Differently from the normal devil ones, the wings of the devils from the Phenex Clan are featherly and permanently burning. Despite Lucifer's attempt to protest Makoto doesn't react. "Is this a threat?" asks the blue haired boy, not showing any sign of fear.
For the second time this day another magic circle appears on the floor of the ORC, the silver haired Grayfia appearing from it. "Lord Yuki, Lord Riser. I ask you stop fighting so we can resolve this situation in a civil manner" says the woman. 'The Queen of Lucifer? She just called this human Lord? Are we for real?' thinks bewildered Riser looking at the maid. "It has never been my intention to start a fight" says Makoto, as he sits on one of the free sofas. "However I must ask. What is happening here?" asks the boy decided to see this thing through.
"Yeah I'm not understanding it too" comments Irumi raising her hand, but Akeno is quick to shut her up putting a hand on the other girl's mouth. "Excuse her, she's new" says smiling Rias' queen. 'Partner this is a thing among high class devils. Just let them resolve this alone' says Ddraig.
04/20/2012, Occult Research Club, Afternoon.
Sitting on the sofas of the clubroom are Rias, Makoto and Riser with his arm around Rias' waist. On the sides of the room there are the two devil peerages of Rias and Riser with Grayfia that just finished explaining the situation. "Do you see now... Yuki?" manages to say Riser instead of calling him with a slur. "This isn't a matter regarding you" he says. 'I want to agree with this arrogant brat for this one. Stopping a marriage isn't what we are here for Universe' says Kohryu. 'The Huanglong says right. The Priestess will surely resolve this by herself' tells Odin.
"This doesn't change anything Riser" protests Rias making Riser to grunt. "Lord Lucifer already thought about the possibility of Lady Rias not agreeing with the marriage, so he suggests to resolve this matter by a Rating Game" says Grayfia.
"What is a Rating Game?" asks meanwhile Irumi to Akeno. "A simulated battle where the peerages of two devils fight each others like in a game of chess" explains the other girl. "Hmpf, fine by me. I already fought and won many Rating Games and I have a complete set of pieces" says cockily Riser, looking at the 15 girls of his peerage. "Tell me Rias, your servants are just those four over there?" mocks Riser. "And?" asks Rias annoyed by Riser's arrogance.
"It doesn't make any sense!" shouts Irumi, having enough of this. "You're just an arrogant prick Riser Phenex!" she says pointing her finger at the Phenex. "Learn your place girl or else I'll teach you a lesson you won't forget" replies Riser. The Red Dragon Empress summons the Boosted Gear and glares in anger at Riser. 'Partner what are you doing?' asks Ddraig. 'People like him are the ones I want to destroy. Arrogant and aggressive... He's just like the monster who killed my parents!' says Irumi to the dragon. "Mira, show this girl her place" orders Riser to one of his servants, the pawn Mira.
Mira jolts in front of Irumi, she's a short girl with blue hair tied in six ponytails. She wears a white jacket tied with a red belt. She also wears bandages over her arms and sandals at her feet. The girl wields a bō staff, the classic martial arts staff used in Okinawa. Mira launches herself at Irumi hitting the girl straight to her abdomen and sending the girl flying to the roof of the ORC cracking the wooden ceiling as Irumi makes contact with it. "Irumi!" shouts Rias hurrying to her side. "Aaagh, I think one of my ribs is broken" says in pain Irumi.
"To think that this generation's Red Dragon Empress is this weak. Hilarious" laughs Riser. Makoto stands up and kneels down to Irumi. "Sorry Senpai... the training isn't giving any results. Tell Master I'm sorry" says apologetically the girl. 'Stupid kid, she's too reckless' says Kohryu. "You are being too dramatic. Diarahan" says Makoto healing Irumi. "Thanks Senpai". "We accept. I promise you will be destroyed Riser" Rias stands up to face Riser, confidence in her voice. "Oh I can't wait to see it" says Riser amused heading towards his peerage. "See you at the Rating Game then, dear Rias" he says smirking before disappearing in a burst of flames along with his peerage.
"I shall inform my master of your choice then Lady Rias" says Grayfia, she too leaving the ORC. "Yuki, I'm sorry for what you had to see today" says Rias in shame. "You have nothing to be sorry about, but what are you going to do?" asks Makoto looking at all the members of Rias' peerage. "We're going to fight Senpai, that's obvious" says Kiba trying to keep a smile. "Senpai help us like you already do with me!" shouts Irumi looking hopeful at Makoto.
"No!" shouts Rias crossing her arms. "Yuki you don't have to worry, I'll deal with this" she says, refusing to annoy Makoto till the last second. "Rias, we are friends please let me help you" pleads Makoto seeing sorrow in Rias' eyes. "I can't ask you to waste your time with us". Makoto shakes his head. "No sense, just tell me what I can do".
"We'll need to fight in a Rating Game... How much time do we have?" asks Kiba. "Less than 10 days, the marriage between Rias and that scum has be settled on the 30th so the Rating Game will probably be a day or two before" supposes Akeno. "I want to punch Phenex in the face" softly says Koneko. "Yeah! Senpai can you ask Master to help us?" asks Irumi. "Master?" asks Kiba. "Yeah, Master Kohryu is a great teacher" answers Irumi nodding her head.
'I'd really like to have new students' chuckles Kohryu, feeling like a grandfather with new grandchildren. 'Ten days isn't enough to build strength' points out Yoshitsune. 'However it's more than enough time to improve one's technique' he adds. 'Are you really considering it Yoshitsune? We aren't trainers we are gods, demons, heroes!' protests Apollo. 'I remember you having fun like a kid last time with the Magician, hee hoo' points out Jack Frost. 'The Universe already decided. Helping a friend in need is our duty!' exclaims Robin Hood. 'I agreeee if I can speend with Ddraiig' screeches Fafnir.
"He says it's okay" says Makoto making Irumi to celebrate with a jump. "President we won't have to worry we'll do it" says the Red Dragon Empress clenching her fist in security. Rias' reaction surprise everyone, she starts laughing as small tears form under her eyes. "Rias?" asks Akeno starting to worry. "It's everything good. Ah, you are right Yuki, thanks for wanting to help me... Really I promise I'll repay you" says the red haired girl. "There's no need to". Instead of simply accepting Makoto's refusal Rias objects. "No no, my honour as a Gremory demands me to repay you Yuki. Just wait for it" protests Rias.
04/20/2012, Velvet Room, Afternoon.
Meanwhile Ryoji returned to the Velvet Room, where he found Elizabeth standing in front of the entrance door: waiting for him. "Attendant?" Ryoji asks, attempting to enter the Velvet Room, but the woman in blue bars the door. "Good day, Death. May I ask what are you doing with the Priestess?" asks inquisitive Elizabeth. "Are you talking about Gremory? Nothing, just assisting her with something," Ryoji responds, attempting to avoid being overly precise. "By any chance were you helping her dealing with her arranged marriage with the House of Phenex?" asks Elizabeth, surprising Ryoji.
"How do you know about it?". "It is not significant now, but you are acting foolishly. I'm already thinking about a solution to this problem. After all if the Priestess is forced to leave the human world her bond with Makoto is going to be damaged along with his powers" explains Elizabeth looking coldly at Ryoji. "Then what are your intentions?" asks Ryoji still doubtful. "I can handle the situation and resolve it in a peaceful and civil manner".
"The term peaceful coming from your mouth doesn't reassure me in the slightest" Ryoji snaps, not believing Elizabeth's interpretation of the word. "Trust me Death, I know how to behave following the social standards of this world. Now, how were you helping Rias?". "Gremory says there is a possibility to end the arrangement with a Rating Game, a fight between Phenex's group and hers". Ryoji yawns and heads upstairs, knowing it's useless to reason with Elizabeth if she's focused on something. Before leaving he looks one last time at Elizabeth. "Attendant, I don't know what your plan is, but think well if it can cause more troubles than good to Makoto" he seriously says.
"A Rating Game? That is the worst case scenario possible, even if you help the Priestess it's impossible to even the difference in power between her and her opponent" states Elizabeth. "And what makes you say that?". "Serafall was kind enough to show me some of the devils' beloved Rating Games. In one of them fought Riser Phenex. Rias doesn't have enough raw power to defeat his immortality". Ryoji, as the embodiment of Death, laughs at the mention of immortality. "Nothing is immortal, only Mother is" says Ryoji thinking about Nyx. 'I hope Mercurius is ready for a trip to the Underworld' thinks Elizabeth opening the Persona Compendium.
But before the Attendant can torment the God of Thieves again the door of the Velvet Room is opened again. "Liz, I will be away for some days. Do you know where Ryoji is?" asks Makoto. It's a rare sight to see Elizabeth without words, but she didn't expect Makoto from all people to say something like this so suddenly. "Did something happen?" she asks. "Rias needs my help" he briefly answers, sitting behind the counter. "I need to revise my personas for this".
'Ah finally I won't have to suffer these guys anymore' scoffs Apollo. 'You are saying it with too much confidence for my tastes' observes Odin. 'Who do you intend to call Universe?' asks Kohryu. 'I need someone who can help Koneko and Himejima. You and Fafnir are going to continue the usual training with Ito. Yoshitsune and Odin will help Kiba. As for Rias... Lucifer are you good with that?' asks the messiah. 'I'll come to terms with it if that's what you want Universe' says the Morning Star. 'May I suggest something Makoto?' says Orpheus Telos. 'Of course'. 'We've been thinking about it since Shadow Izanami's appearance. You should summon Izanagi-no-Okami' says the Master of Strings. 'And how do I do it?' asks Makoto. 'Fuse me and Robin Hood'. 'Are you sure about it?'. 'Yes Universe do not worry about us!' proclaims Robin Hood gladly accepting his role.
Elizabeth takes the record player and plays Aria of the Soul. "Makoto why do you need to change your stock?" asks the woman still unsure on what Makoto just said. "Rias needs to fight in a thing called Rating Game". Elizabeth doesn't let Makoto finish to speak and swiftly opens the Persona Compendium. "I guess the diplomatic way is out of our reach now" she says confusing her guest. "What do you mean?". "My theory is that the Rating Gane between Riser Phenex and the Priestess is now official, so there's no other way for her than to fight". Makoto frowns. "Did you know about this the all time?". Elizabeth nods her head. The blue haired boy sighs deciding to not complain about Elizabeth not informing him. "So who do you want to fuse?".
"I was pondering who could help me with Himejima and Koneko. Orpheus Telos suggested to fuse Izanagi-no-Okami to deal with Izanami, that would leave a spot free as Orpheus and Robin Hood would be fused" explains Makoto with Elizabeth closely listening to him. "Oh, the ultimate persona of the World Arcana, interesting. I also think the supreme god of Japan can be quite useful in the training camp you are so focused to set up" jokes Elizabeth.
"I know someone who can help us. I'm sure she and Himejima will get along" comes the voice of Ryoji, who just came back. "Did you both know about Rias' problem and didn't think about telling me? Really?" asks Makoto, a bit disappointed. "Ehy! In my defence I wasn't aware the Attendant knew about it" says Ryoji holding his hands in a defensive sign. 'I find their lack of faith disgusting' says Lucifer. "I heard that Morning Star" deadpans Ryoji.
"Let's just get over it" says Makoto, dismissing the matter to a later time. "Who's the persona you are referring to, Death?" asks curious Elizabeth. "Cendrillon" says Ryoji. 'Not that insufferable brat Thanatos' whines Odin. 'What is the problem, I find her a fun child' comments Kohryu. 'This is not your choice to make. It's Makoto's mind not yours' says Orpheus Telos. Makoto thinks for a second, Irumi suggested to let Kohryu train the rest of Rias peerage so he thought that it would be better to assign one persona to each one of Rias' group.
Kohryu, and Fafnir due to to the cybernetic dragon insistence, will train Irumi for obvious reasons: as Ddraig said a dragon is the best training partner for another dragon. Yoshitsune with the help of Odin will help Kiba, the grudging samurai is the one who gives Makoto all his prowess with the sword and the All Father is the best option for a quick and overwhelming fighting style. Lucifer and Rias on the other hand... Makoto is worried that the Morning Star will exaggerate, after all from what the Devil whispered in the boy's ear... it's better not reminiscing it.
However Lucifer remains a tactical genius and the Devil himself so he is the best suited for Rias and in case the situation degenerates there is Leviathan with him, calming down the Morning Star. Now, Ryoji suggested to call Cendrillon to train Akeno, suggestion which Makoto completely approves. The Ash Princess knows both magic and melee combat, perfect for a Queen like the Himejima girl. Sona explained him that Queens had all the other evil pieces' characteristics, but weakened. Cendrillon is a versatile Persona so it mirrors exactly what Makoto needs.
Lastly there is Koneko... he will probably need to talk with the girl more as he doesn't know much about her power. He does know she's a rook and from what he saw when they killed Kazan Ishikagawa she is a power type specialized in punches and kicks. Similar to Akihiko from that point of view, that should help Makoto coming up with a plan, but it doesn't. He has Messiah left, option which Makoto immediately discards as his Ultimate Persona might be deadly to a devil. Jack Frost is a magic caster, he could help Rias or Akeno, but not Koneko. 'Universe Universe, my dear Universe. I am all you need' comes proudly Apollo, interrupting Makoto's line of thoughts. 'Ok, you will be assigned to Koneko' replied Makoto immediately accepting the suggestion.
The boy looks at Elizabeth as Aria of the Soul nears its conclusion. "I decided. I want to summon Cendrillon from the Persona Compendium and fuse Izanagi-no-Okami" he tells to the Attendant. The ritual begins, Orpheus Telos and Robin Hood fuse together to form the Ultimate persona of the World arcana. On the last note of the song Izanagi-no-Okami appears floating in the Velvet Room.
"I am thou. Thou art I. From the Universe in thy soul I'm born. I will be the guiding light shed to illuminate thy path. I am the revealer of truth and the banisher of lies. The dispeller of the fog, I am the original god: Izanagi-no-Okami"
After this the Country Maker delves into Makoto's mind. 'Salutations, Universe. I am going to be the lighthouse illuminating your path. I promise to assist you in your noble task' says Izanagi, his voice giving off zeal and patience. 'It's a pleasure' replies Makoto. Cendrillon is summoned soon after from the Persona Compendium and she too delves into the boy's mind.
'Look who we have here!' giggles Cendrillon. 'Odin! Jack Frost! and Kohryu! How are you?' she asks. 'It's good having you on board Cendrillon, hee hoo' says Jack Frost. 'You are as energetic as always girl' tells Kohryu. Ignoring Cendrillon, Odin keeps quiet. "All Father cat got your tongue?" asks the cheeky dancer Persona, causing Fafnir to chuckle uncontrollably.
"Are we ready to go?" asks Elizabeth closing her book and putting the record player away. "We?" Makoto asks rhetorically, his gaze drawn to Ryoji and Elizabeth both. "Is there a problem Makoto?" Ryoji inquires. "You two are staying here in town, I don't wanna hear objections" orders Makoto surprising the other two. "Ehy Makoto I promised Gremory to help her too" objects the Death, but Makoto is adamant on that. "Death if Makoto desires so we just have to accept it. Our adversaries are aware of Kuoh Town, so he is not incorrect. We cannot abandon it without protection."
04/20/2012, Student Council Clubroom, Afternoon.
"That's what you need to do for today Genshirou, thanks again". Within the student council clubroom Sona is assigning her new pawn Genshirou Saji, a normal-height young man with grey eyes and blonde hair, his first assignments as a devil. "Thank you President" says bowing Saji as he takes the handle of flyers from Sona. Someone knocks at the door and Rias along with Akeno enter the room. "Senpai Gremory!? Senpai Himejima!?" says taken by surprise Saji, as he frantically trues tl hide the flyers Sona just gave him behind his back.
"Rias, to what do I owe your visit?" asks Sona to her friend and rival. "Me and my peerage will be away from tomorrow. I will hand over Kuoh Town to you for the next week" the redhead says, but then she spots Saji. "Well, it appears that you have a new peerage member". Saji's mouth is wide open, surprised that Rias knows he is a devil. "I wanted to tell you later, but here in Kuoh I'm not the only high-class devil. Rias is the other one, she too has a peerage like mine" explains Sona. "I-I see, it's a pleasure to meet you Lady Gremory. I'm Genshirou Saji, President's latest pawn" formally says Saji, bowing his head. Akeno giggles at the sight of Saji. "What a polite guy" she says amused.
"Rias what is the reason you are going out of Kuoh? It concerns Riser I presume?". Rias nods her head. "Yes, the Rating Game has been decided and Yuki volunteered to help us" says the Gremory heiress. "Rating Game? The same you were talking about President?" asks Saji. "Yes Genshirou. Don't worry Rias, I will deal with the Town's matters in your peerage's and Yuki's absence. Just don't lose against Phenex, I'd hate seeing my rival forced in a marriage with an arrogant guy like him". Rias thanks Sona and leaves with Akeno.
"President, by Yuki you mean the third year who hangs out with Hanakai right? Is he a devil too?" asks Saji. "No... Yuki's human, but his situation is peculiar" replies the Student Council President. "So what's so special about him if he's just a human? Does he have a Sacred Gear?" insists Saji. "It's not important".
04/20/2012, Old School Building, Late Afternoon.
Rias and Makoto called the Gremory's peerage in the courtyard of the Old School Building to explain them what they are going to do. "We are going to an estate owned by my family on the shores of Kawaguchi Lake, at the foot of Mount Fuji, tomorrow" explains Rias. The girl continues, "Grayfia has already prepared everything we will need for our stay".
"Now word to coach Yuki" says Rias, already in the role. 'This might even be fun' thinks the oblivious Gremory. Kiba raises his hand and speaks before Makoto has a chance to respond. "Senpai, will Senpai Mochizuki and Miss Elizabeth come too?" asks the blonde. "No, they will stay here in town. Just in case anything happens". "Sorry for interrupting" excuses himself Kiba after Makoto's answer.
"I would like to clarify something now" declares Makoto, his eyes filled with seriousness. "From what I understood usually you devils fight in these Rating Games for sport. I don't. Everytime I fought in my life was for the sake of others, fighting for fun is something I despise. Completely". Everyone listens silently to Makoto. "Rias, the only reason I am helping you is because this Rating Game will help you secure your future; I detest it when people force their will on others". Rias nods her head, her smile disappearing to be replaced by a determined expression. "With this said. I hope you all do your best, and that we can work this out". Rias and her peerage say a loud "Yes", when Makoto is done speaking.
"I think it too Senpai!" shouts Irumi. "I hate that arrogant Riser who thinks he's so above of us and can do whatever he wants!". Rias looks at her peerage, her family, so focused and eager on helping her. 'I am lucky' thinks the girl. 'I am lucky to have such fantastic servants, and I am lucky we are friends Makoto'. A tear forms under her eyes, which she immediately dries off. "At what time we leave?" asks Makoto to Rias. "Six in the morning, we will move by teleportation" replies the devil heiress. Makoto nods in understanding and heads back to the Velvet Room.
"I wonder what Senpai will make us do" says Kiba while pondering Makoto's words. Fighting for the sake of others? What about him? What about Kiba Yuuto... or Isaiah? He vowed to fight for Rias Gremory for all his life as her knight, but his desire for vengeance never went away and still lived in the back of his mind constantly reminding him of who he is. "It will be so useful just you see Kiba!". Irumi's words snap the blonde out of his line of thoughts. "I'm sure about it" says Kiba. "It's better if you rest tonight, from tomorrow will have to give our all!" says Rias encouraging her servants.