As information about Riser's party spread throughout DevilNet, discussions were buzzing in the underworld. Amidst the lively conversations and speculations about the reason behind the party, members of the demonic community exchanged opinions and theories.
"You seen this? Riser Phenex is throwing a party!" exclaimed one devil while browsing DevilNet, sharing the news with their friends. "And it looks like it's going to be a big celebration."
"Oh, that Riser never misses a chance to show off," replied another devil, rolling their eyes disdainfully. "Wanna bet he's just using this as an excuse to draw attention to himself?"
Riser's Private Mansion
Riser was in his room, seated in his favorite armchair while browsing DevilNet on his laptop. He was reading comments from devils about the party he was organizing, a mix of excitement and speculation filling the online forums.
"What's amusing you, Riser-sama?" asked Merlin, her voice soft and cautious as she approached Riser, watching him with curiosity.
"Some comments on DevilNet," replied Riser, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "Some people have quite the nerve."
Merlin tilted her head, her blue eyes shining with interest as she approached Riser to see what he was reading.
"Let me see," requested Merlin, her voice soft and intrigued. "I'm curious to know what they're saying about the party."
Riser handed the laptop to Merlin, allowing her to see the devils' comments about the event. Merlin read attentively, her expression serious as she absorbed the opinions and theories of others.
"Hmm, there seems to be a lot of speculation about the reason for the party," observed Merlin, her voice calm and thoughtful as she scanned the comments. "Some think you're just showing off, others think there's a hidden motive behind it."
Riser shrugged, his smile lingering on his lips as he leaned back in the chair.
"Let them speculate," he said indifferently. "The truth is, this party is just another opportunity for me to showcase my influence and strengthen my alliances in the underworld."
Merlin nodded, understanding the strategy behind Riser's party. She admired his ability to manipulate situations to his own benefit, even if it meant attracting attention to himself from time to time.
"Do you plan to make any important announcements during the party?" asked Merlin, her voice soft as she handed the laptop back to Riser.
Riser pondered for a moment, his gaze fixed on the horizon as he considered the possibilities.
"Perhaps," he replied, his tone mysterious. "It depends on how things unfold. But I'll certainly seize the opportunity to make some connections and expand my influence."
Merlin nodded, satisfied with Riser's answer. She trusted his ability to read situations and act according to what was most beneficial for him and his family.
"So, what do you think of these comments, Merlin?" asked Riser, his curious gaze watching the mage's expression.
Merlin smiled, her expression serene as she looked at Riser.
"I think people will continue to speculate, Riser-sama," she replied with a slight nod of her head. "But at the end of the day, what matters is how you use this party to advance your goals."
Riser nodded, pleased with Merlin's response. He knew he could rely on her to support him in his endeavors, no matter what happened.
"That's right, Merlin," he agreed, his smile widening as he stood up from the chair. "Now, let's make sure everything is perfect for tomorrow's party."
Merlin nodded, following Riser as they left the room together.
Time Skip
Party Venue
A few hours before the party, Riser, Yubelluna, Merlin, Sona, and Tsubaki were already at the castle where the event would take place. The atmosphere was filled with activity, with servants busy preparing the final details to welcome the guests.
Riser watched with satisfaction as decorators hung red and gold curtains, adding a luxurious touch to the main hall. He was eager for the party to begin and to show his guests how grand his event was.
Yubelluna supervised the servants, ensuring that everything was done according to her high standards. She was determined to ensure the party was a success and that all guests felt welcome and comfortable.
"Merlin, come with me over there," said Riser, calling the mage to follow him to a corner of the castle.
Merlin followed Riser with her usual calmness, her blue eyes carefully observing the surroundings as they walked.
"What do you need, Riser-sama?" asked Merlin, her voice soft and serene as she approached him.
"When Diodora Astaroth arrives, keep an eye on him," said Riser, his voice calm and authoritative as he approached the mage. "Especially if he approaches Asia, my sister's bishop."
Merlin nodded, her expression serious as she absorbed Riser's instructions.
"Understood, Riser-sama," she replied, her voice soft and attentive. "I'll keep an eye on him and ensure Asia is safe."
"Is there any special reason for him to approach Asia?" asked Merlin, her voice soft and cautious as she raised an eyebrow to Riser.
Riser smiled mischievously, a playful gleam in his blue eyes as he approached Merlin.
"Diodora has a fetish for nuns," replied Riser, his voice tinged with amusement. "And he can't resist the temptation to be near one."
Merlin raised an eyebrow, her expression serious as she processed the information.
"Wouldn't it be better if Asia didn't come to the party dressed as a nun then?" suggested Merlin, her voice thoughtful. "Unless you want Diodora to do something to give you a reason to deal with him."
Riser watched Merlin with admiration, impressed by her insight.
"Smart and perceptive," praised Riser, his voice soft as he looked at Merlin with admiration. "Exactly, Merlin. I just want a chance to take him down, or rather, to make him take himself down."
Merlin nodded solemnly, committed to following Riser's orders.
"Regardless of the reason, everything will be done as instructed," replied Merlin, her voice firm and determined.
"Very well, you can go back to the others," said Riser, his voice soft as he stepped away to enter the bathroom. "If anyone asks for me, inform them that I'm in the bathroom."
Merlin nodded, watching as Riser walked away and entered the bathroom before returning her attention to her other responsibilities.
Inside the bathroom, Riser locked the door and took a card from his inventory.
"Let's see if this duel card really works," muttered Riser to himself as he examined the card in his hands. "I, Riser, challenge Azazel to a duel to the death."
Note:
Duel card is one of the items Riser won from the system lottery in Chapter 22.
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