Part 1
These events happened after the『Hell Disaster』, the battle against『Alliance of Hell』, which was focused on Hades, ended. When things started calming down.
We were at the workplace of the『Hyoudou Issei Peerage』, the office underneath a cram school 10 minutes of walking distance of the Hyoudou residence. We were there to do our jobs as devils.
Many office desks were placed inside the office, which was about 30 tatamis wide.
I was seated behind the big desk――the executive desk in the depths of the office, a.k.a, the company president desk and was staring at all kinds of documents.
While looking at the documents, I glanced at the desk of one of my peerage members.
"..."
Seated there was Ravel, who had a serious and pensive expression looking at work-related documents and sometimes handling her tablet PC.
She was viewing the data of the International Rating Game Tournament, also known as [Azazel Cup], while doing her Devil's job.
Since we, the『Red Dragon Emperor of the Blazing Truth』team, won the first round of the main competition and advanced to the next round of the International Rating Game Tournament. Ravel has been working hard to find ways to deal with our next opponent, such as thinking about strategies and gathering information about the opponent.
Our next opponent is the [Babel Belial] team, the team of the Champion, Diehauser Belial-san. The team of the absolute Champion that defeated even teams with God-Class beings.
However, since they have been participating in the official Rating Games since a long time ago, there is a vast recording of their matches, so their best tactics and the abilities of each team member is widely known throughout the Underworld.
Research on the [Babel Belial] team has long been the subject of various opinions from other Rating Game players and specialists. There are even several books on the subject available for sale in the Underworld.
Therefore, it would be hard to read everything, but there is a mountain of things that we can use as references. Hence, it is different from facing an unknown opponent. It would be good if they were an opponent that we could easily win against if we researched about them, but that absolutely wasn't the case.
After all, many challengers couldn't defeat them even when they had such a wide variety of materials.
...Since Ravel asked me, I also read the specialised book against the [Babel Belial] team, but what bothered Ravel the most was something else.
――Currently, the『Queen』position of our team is empty.
Until now, the masked woman――Bina Lessthan, or Grayfia-san, has been participating as the『Queen』of our team, but after the match with the previous team, Rias' team, she withdrew from our team.
There was a change in what Grayfia-san was carrying and the feelings troubling her, so she stopped fighting temporarily and went home to her son, Millicas.
Since we have always been under Grayfia-san's care, we were really happy for her, so there was no way we could stop her.
So since something like that happened, currently, our『Queen』position is open.
The clock is ticking until the next match. And we still had a『Queen』position to be filled and training sessions to be done so that our team could synchronise their breathing... We don't have time to spare.
Should we put the Grim Reaper girl, Bennia, who came from Sona-senpai's peerage and became my『Knight』, in the team and change the position of one of my current members to『Queen』? Or should we have someone from Rias' peerage join us as a『Queen』?
Bova, too, still hasn't returned from his training...
Well, well, what should we do...
""Hmm"".
Ravel and I let such a sound escape from our mouths simultaneously with troubled expressions.
――There, the teleportation magic circle placed inside of the office started shining. It was Ingvild coming back from work.
Since she is a newcomer and due to the danger of her immense demonic power causing an explosion, she couldn't move to the client's place alone until now, but recently, she has become able to do it alone.
We limited her work to something simple that she would be able to do, though. Also, when her demonic power and physical conditions aren't stable, we have one of the free members tag along with her like before. (Well, from the client's perspective, rather than one, now they have two beautiful girls visiting, so it's just profit for them).
While yawning, Ingvild showed me an expensive-looking box of sweets in her hand, which must have been the reward of her work.
"I'm back. I got sweets".
While receiving the sweets from her, I gave her some words of appreciation.
"Hmm, welcome back. Good work, Ingvild. You can relax and wait for your next job".
I said so, but it seemed like she was interested in the book I was reading and was staring at it.
Ingvild said,
"Is that the latest edition of『The Emperor Demolition』? It's a book that analyses Diehauser Belial-san's tactics through the ages, right?"
"Huh? Y-Yes, that's right. Do you know this book?"
She nodded to me, who was surprised.
"Yes. Because I have borrowed many such books from Ravel".
―――!! I see, so it was like that, huh?
She continued,
"The way the Champion fights is subtly different for each era. If an opponent uses a meta against them, they immediately fight against that meta in a match... I think I learnt a lot, simply because many things would work in fights outside of Rating Games too".
I see. Ingvild has been studying Rating Games by her own initiative... Or rather, she may already know more about the Champion than me...
Ingvild said,
"Now I'm studying the『Traits』held by those higher than High-Class devils".
So she's studying about the devils' traits, huh? Speaking of which, lately, she has been cooperating with the others to help Bal-kun (Balberith) and Verrine, who joined Xenovia's peerage when she became a High-Class Devil, to manifest their traits... Especially Balberith, who is a rare genius. I think something strange would happen if I got involved in it, so I thought it would be better to leave it in Sairaorg-san and Rias' hands.
Well, like always, I still have a lot of Devil's work to do. I have to prepare for the match, do what I'm asked to do and study to be a『King』. I have so many things to do that there isn't enough time...
When the day's work was over and everyone who had gone to work had returned, Ravel looked at her watch and said,
"It's almost the promised time. ――The time to meet with that person".
That's right, we still have an important errand tonight.
Part 2
"The 5th fight of the main competition of the International Rating Game Tournament is about to start! The teams about to confront each other are the team of the user of the Longinus said to be the strongest, the user of『True Longinus』! The 『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team , led by player Cao Cao! Against him, from the forces of Norse mythology, is the legendary Fire Giant! It's the『Black』team, the army of giants led by Surtr! We have a showdown between humans and giants! Now, what's going to happen?!"
We watched recorded footage of a match of the『Azazel Cup』on the TV in the living room.
We, the members of the Hyoudou family + α (angels), gathered in the living room to watch the match of Cao Cao's team. However, this match was already over and we had already checked the result.
Then, are you asking yourself why we have gathered so many people to watch the recorded footage of a match whose result we already know? That is because――
In the video, Cao Cao, with his Holy Spear gleaming, knocked down one of the giants with a vigorous sweep of his spear. Watching this, a crimson-haired girl sitting next to Rias mumbled in a whisper while eating sweets.
"Uwa, amazing. To think I would have the chance to see the『True Longinus』with such ease".
The one who said that was Runeas Gremory, the first generation Gremory, a beautiful Devil girl wearing the Kuoh Academy schoolgirl's uniform and had her long crimson hair in a two-sided updo!
That's right. The important errand of tonight, the promise of tonight, was to watch this match with the First Generation-sama. It seems like she really wanted to watch the Rating Game matches――especially those involving the Holy Spear. In the living room of the Hyoudou residence, we were watching the match, which we'd already finished watching, with the First Generation-sama.
She was in full relaxation mode, so she had taken off her knee socks. Bare legs are the best.
For those of us in the Gremory family, the founder of Gremory is more than just a super VIP. So we had initially planned to watch the recording in the VIP room on the upper floor, but...
"The living room is enough. You don't need to exaggerate".
―――She said so. So everyone was watching Cao Cao's match in the living room.
"Here is your coffee, Runeas-san,,. You like it with more sugar and milk, right?"
With a friendly smile, my mother served a freshly brewed coffee to the Founder-sama.
"Oh, thank you very much".
The Founder-sama received it with a smile.
"Ufufu, Runeas-san is such a cute person".
My mother, who moved to my side, told me her impression.
...My mother doesn't recognise the Founder-sama as someone from Rias' family. I explained to her, though. Well, they are family, but... they have a somewhat distant blood relation.
After all, they are the earliest family head-sama and the newest family head candidate-sama...
"Uh-oh! Many『Pawns』of the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team were defeated by the『Rook』of the『Black』team, player Hrungnir!"
Under the fierce attack of the legendary giant, the『Pawns』of Cao Cao's team were retired. Like always, the attacks of these Nordic giants are strong.
By the way, the registered members of the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team in the competition are:
・King―――Cao Cao
・Queen―――Guan Di (God-Class)
・Rook―――Heracles
・Rook―――Connla (The user of the『Night Reflection』Sacred Gear)
・Knight―――Jeanne
・Knight―――Perseus
・Bishop―――Georg
・Bishop―――Marsilio (The user of the『Dreamlike Curse』Sacred Gear)
・Pawn ×8―――8 members of the former Hero Faction
This is their composition. Well, it is a composition that didn't change from before.
On the other hand, the registered members of the『Black』team led by Surtr in the competition are:
・King―――Surtr (Fire Giant, The King of Muspell)
・Queen―――Sinmara (Surtr's wife)
・Rook ×2―――Hrungnir (Frost Giant, Jötunn)
・Knight ×2―――Hræsvelgr
・Bishop ×2―――Útgarða-Loki (Frost Giant, Jötunn)
・Pawn―――Muspelheim Warriors (worth two pieces each) 4×
And that is their composition. It was a brutal composition formed by strong legendary giants and giant warriors. That line-up has been blowing away teams of all forces with great vigour and strength since the preliminary matches.
『Okay! I've stopped them! Heracles! Jeanne!』
The magic chains created by Georg restricted two flame giants, which were『Pawns』. Heracles, with the explosive abilities of his Sacred Gear and the giant dragon created by Jeanne, attacked in tandem, toppling down the enormous giants.
The opposing team, team『Black』, starting with their『King』, Surtr, was composed only of legendary giants of 20 to 30 metres high. However, the fire giants, who were『Pawns』, were a little smaller, standing at 10 metres.
『Let's do it, Georg.』
『Yes, Cao Cao!』
Cao Cao, who was already in Balance Breaker state (he has a halo on his back), wielded his Holy Spear covered in a vast aura, while Georg uses the power of fog from his『Dimension Lost』, one of the high-tier Longinus and his versatile magic which he was good at to inflict damage on the legendary giants.
The giants are powerful because of their huge size and the immense offensive power they produce. However, they had difficulty when facing teams that aimed at their weaknesses, such as "technical" teams, teams with excellent technique-types and wizard-types.
Therefore, Cao Cao, one of the candidates as the strongest human and has excellent technique and Georg, a skilled magic user, were considered to have an advantage in terms of compatibility over the giants.
However, the opponents are such strong giants that they are even mentioned in Norse mythology. If they were opponents that one could easily gain an advantage upon, no one would have difficulty facing them. In fact, Cao Cao had been in the Balance Breaker state from the beginning of the match because he understood that if he was too stingy, he would be blown away by the giants too easily.
The God-Glass, Guan Di, who belonged to the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team, was not being outdone. Straddling a huge red-haired horse and wielding a blue dragon scimitar, he steadily inflicted damage on his giant opponent.
Seeing the owners of Longinus, the First Generation-sama mumbled out.
"Currently, there are 18 of them, right? Every time I wake up, there are more『Longinus』".
I see. For the First Generation-sama, who always sleeps for a long time and wakes up from time to time, it was only natural that she would have such an impression.
The First Generation-sama was eating a crispy snack――rice crackers while watching the footage of the match. However, on the bag of snacks... was a printed image of Kiba.
"First Generation-sama, what are you eating?"
I was curious, so I asked her.
The First Generation-sama answered while showing me the bag.
"Huh? This? This is the new snack of the Gremory territory called『Kiba-kyun Paisen』. It seems like it was made using the Japanese rice cracker as a reference".
I s-see. A snack made by the Gremory territory, a rice cracker, huh?
When Kiba was informed of the existence of the Gremory territory's goods, he said: "...I didn't know there was such a thing on the market..." Kiba was puzzled by the existence of the goods. It seems like the person himself didn't even know about it...?
W-Well, on my side too, there is a lot of Oppai Dragon merchandise I don't know about spreading in the Underworld.
"..."
Suddenly, I saw that Ingvild was intently watching the match. Not so long ago, she used to look sleepy at times like these...
Ravel whispered to me.
(Recently, Ingvild-sama has been watching a lot of recorded footage of various Rating Games. She also has been watching many matches that Issei-sama and others have played in the past).
―――!!
...Is that so? So she has been watching the recorded footage of our Rating Game matches many times...
While something like that happened, the video on the TV progressed.
"Oh-ho, this is! Player Hrungnir, the『Black』team's『Rook』is attacking the members of the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team with his gargantuan spear!"
Even without a direct hit, the aftermath of the legendary giant's attack was so fierce that it was enough to weaken the members of the Hero Faction, who were humans.
『We are going to retreat.』
Cao Cao retreated from the front line with the other members for a while.
As one by one, the giants were separated from their comrades, Cao Cao gave an order to his team members.
『All right, we'll surround them! Georg!』
Hearing his name being called, Georg followed the order of his leader and raised the abilities of his Sacred Gear『Dimension Lost』and used his Balance Breaker,『Dimension Create』.
Due to what he did in the『Demonic Beast Riot』, there are restrictions placed on his Sacred Gear, but they seem significantly relaxed for the main round of the competition.
Using the power of the mist created by his Balance Breaker, Georg created his own barrier in the game field.
One of the giants was sealed there and starting with Cao Cao, the members of the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』 team stepped into the barrier.
It was the tactic of sealing each giant alone inside a powerful barrier and fighting against them there with the advantage of numbers.
『We'll definitely defeat them one by one! Continue!』
『『『『Understood!!!』』』』
His team members replied to Cao Cao's voice and rushed at the legendary giant sealed inside the barrier.
『Nu, Nuoooooooo!』
The giant went on a rampage inside of the barrier. However, starting with the Holy Spear and its seven treasures, the giant suffered an intense attack by various Balance Breaker users. Furthermore, Guan Di's blue dragon scimitar covered in his godly aura was definitely damaging the giant. Eventually――.
"One『Bishop』from the『Black』team has been retired."
Cao Cao and the others defeated one giant. The『Bishop』 Útgarða-Loki, who was an illusion user.
"Rather than fighting them head-on, they contain and then dispatch their opponents one by one. That way, they can reduce their energy consumption, so it was the best strategy".
Ravel described Cao Cao and his team's fighting style as such.
『Next!』
With that momentum, Cao Cao and the others sealed another giant within the mist of Georg's Balance Breaker. There the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team once again went inside and fought against the giant.
『Nu, Nuoooo! Bastards!』
It was Hræsvelgr the『Knight』of the『Black』team, who was sealed this time. (He is a giant with the head and wings of a hawk) He specialises in wind magic and went on a rampage using it and while he damaged Cao Cao and the others―――.
"One『Knight』from the『Black』team has been retired."
Eventually, they crushed him too.
Cao Cao and the others defeated two legendary giants.
『OOOOOOOOoOooOoooOooO!!!』
The audience in the recorded footage was also very excited by this result. The team of Nordic giants, which had been so dominant in the qualifying rounds, was beaten by their under-sized opponents, humans. The scene looked like a scene straight out from a myth, so it was no wonder the crowd was so excited.
Then, the mist that divided the opposing team tried to restrain their『Queen』, Sinmara.
Sinmara is a fierce and powerful female giantess, but she is also Surtr's wife. It happened when Sinmara was sealed in Georg's barrier.
When Surtr learned that his spouse had been trapped in the barrier, an enormous aura of fire erupted from his huge body.
『To think you would be able to go so far, humans' hero. You did well, harming us so much. Therefore―――I'm going to show it to you. What a God's armament is really like!』
As soon as he shouted this, Surtr held his large hand high in the sky and created a fierce―――jet-black flame there.
Surtr itself was also covered in black flames.
Its sight reminded me of a passage from Norse mythology that I had read before.
―――That individual was called『Black』, or『The Black One』.
―――In the [Norse mythology], he was the absolute giant who protects the burning land of 『Muspelheim』 in the far south of the world.
―――In the『Edda』, it is said that he'll burn the world to nothing.
―――His name is Surtr, King of Muspell.
In Surtr's right hand, burning with a mighty aura, was a sword of black flames.
Surtr said,
『―――Lævateinn.』
Watching the scene, the current Governor of Grigori, Shemhazai-san, who was working as a commentator in the live coverage, said.
"We should strengthen the battlefield immediately. That thing burns everything up.... It is a black flame that burns everything to ashes!"
He even went so far as to advise them to do so.
At this point, the tournament management immediately increased the strength of the battlefield.
The sword in Surtr's right hand, which was emitting intense divine flames, produced so much heat that it relentlessly burned and melted the surrounding landscape. It was so hot that even the recorded footage began to distort.
『Burn everything.』
While saying so, Surtr cut in two the barrier that was sealing his wife.
The mist barrier created by the Balance Breaker of Georg's Longinus, a magic expert, was blown away without a moment's thought.
If the power of his Longinus had been at its full potential, this barrier might have held...
『Gah!!』
『Gah!!』
Within the barrier, Heracles and Jeanne were hit by the aftermath of the sword strike and were covered by the light of retirement.
"One『Knight』and one『Rook』from the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team have been retired."
With one strike, two strong ones from the Hero Faction were defeated together with the barrier.
When Sinmara, Surtr's wife, was released and retreated backwards, Surtr waved Lævateinn, covered in scorching black flames, towards Cao Cao and the warriors of the Hero Faction.
『What heat!』
『Nuaaaaah!』
With just a wave of the legendary giant's divine sword, member after member of Cao Cao's team were enveloped in the light of retirement.
Cao Cao shouted at Georg,
『Georg! Take Surtr and me to that barrier! ―――I'll use that!』
『―――! Understood!』
Understanding the will of his leader, Georg once again released the mist of his Longinus, mixed it together with his magic creating a solid barrier and then moved Surtr and Cao Cao there.
―――It was a showdown between the『Kings』of the two teams!
However, the interior of the barrier was filled with a dense mist, so we couldn't see what was happening.
The only thing we could see from the outside of the barrier filled with dense mist was the aura slashes filled with black flames and the holy aura created by the Holy Spear.
Outside of the barrier, Georg, Guan Di and the remaining players had an intense fight with Sinmara and the other giants.
The flow of the battle was on the side of the giants. If we consider that Surtr released Lævateinn and his remaining forces, the Hero Faction team was at a disadvantage.
If things continued like this, it was very likely for Cao Cao's team to lose, or so I thought... But this match would be settled in an unexpected way.
"Huh? Is that confirmed?"
The live announcer sounded confused. Something seemed to have happened in the match.
Then, the announcer said in surprise,
"Eer, it seems like Player Surtr the『King』of the『Black』team declared his resignation. ...That's why the winner of this match is the『Spear of the Heavenly Emperor』team."
The spectators were greatly confused by this result.
That's just natural. Because even after releasing something so brutal like Lævateinn, Surtr declared his defeat――.
Since we already knew the result of this match, we weren't surprised. ...However, after all, this was a totally unexpected result, wasn't it?
When we saw the footage of this match for the first time, we were stunned too.
Georg released the mist barrier around Surtr and Cao Cao.
When the dense mist lifted, the only thing that could be seen was Cao Cao, whose entire body was smoking and bleeding from every part and Surtr, who had lost his left arm at the shoulder.
If you looked closely, you could see that Cao Cao's eye patch had come off and his eye, which should have been missing, was now glowing in gold. ...Before, Rias said it was probably an artificial eye with some special power.
Cao Cao was standing while holding onto the Holy Spear. He was doing his best to continue standing while breathing roughly.
Then, Cao Cao asked Surtr.
『Why...did you resign? If it had continued like that, I, we would have lost.』
Surtr made Lævateinn disappear from his hand and looked at Cao Cao.
『Holy Spear user. You haven't mastered that technique, right?』
『...Well, yeah. This was my first time using it against a strong opponent of the God-Class.』
『I guessed so. After 5 more times, no, if you had used it two or three times against strong opponents and got used to it, I would be in danger. It was a terrifying technique of such a degree.』
Surtr told Cao Cao.
『I've heard that a Sacred Gear, a Longinus, evolves and grows with the power of feelings of the user and that even more dramatic changes can produce miracle-like phenomena. If you proceed in this tournament, I may see a stronger Holy Spear. When I had that thought in my mind, I felt that I was satisfied with this competition.』
Muspell's King, Surtr continued.
『I am the guardian of [Muspelheim], the enemy of Asgard and the one who burns up unknown threats. If I get more injuries than this, they may interfere with something more important. Hence, this is enough』.
The giant, Surtr, kneeled and stuck out his right first to Cao Cao. It seems like he wanted to shake hands.
『Become stronger, young one. I'm looking forward to your, the Two Heavenly Dragons and the other Longinus users' growth. As a warrior, that is』.
Cao Cao was puzzled, but he understood Surtr's intention and offered his hand for a handshake. The handshake was in the form of Cao Cao's hand on the flame giant's hand. At that moment, the giant's flames didn't burn the Holy Spear user and only burnt majestically.
Cao Cao said,
『Understood. I promise you that I'll become even stronger. I hope you can fight against us someday again, King of Muspell.』
It was a handshake between a human and a giant, whose sizes didn't fit at all, but it was refreshing and wonderful.
The match thus ended with the victory for Cao Cao and his team.
"Probably, that technique used by Cao Cao in the dense mist was the last ability of his Seven Treasures. Though I'm also curious about his eye... But since he was dealing with Surtr, I'm sure it was the ability of the Seven Treasures that Cao Cao said that he was still adjusting".
I said so.
Then Rias said.
"A while ago, when Cao Cao and Jeanne came to this house to deal with something, I asked them about it. They didn't tell me anything about it... However――"
Rias continued.
"Cao Cao seemed intrigued by the ice cream maker in the kitchen, so I said,『I'll give it to you if you tell me about the new technique you used against Surtr in the match』. And he thought about it for a while".
After that, Jeanne said to Cao Cao,
『Wait! Is that such a simple technique that can be taught because of something like this?!』
――Then, it seems like he was scolded for that. ...Cao Cao must have been quite attracted to the ice cream maker since he said himself that he has a [childish taste]...
In the end, it seems that Rias was unable to ask him at the time.
Well, as long as he continues advancing in his matches, a time will come when he'll have no choice but to use it before everyone's eyes. Because this tournament has such a gathering of strong ones that can force him to do that.
Besides, maybe he can tell us or show us when we fight together on some big case.
And, well, that was the end of the footage of Cao Cao and his team's match.
After watching the match footage, the First Generation-sama, satisfied, blurted out.
"I wonder if I should join this tournament too".
『――!?』
With Rias and me at the centre, many people became shocked when they heard these words.
Rias asked, puzzled.
"First Generation-sama! That is too sudden... as expected, at such a time that is――"
"Ara? Other people can still join the teams in the game, right?"
The First Generation-sama said such a thing calmly.
...It seems like she knows more than a certain amount of the rules of the main round of the international tournament.
As a modern-day Gremory, Rias continued talking in a concerned tone.
"But we are keeping it a secret that you are alive publicly――"
The First Generation-sama replied.
"Sirzechs-kun's wife... Grayfia-chan was wearing a mask, as I recall, right? So I wonder if I could enter the competition in that way? I've also overheard Issei-chan's『Queen』position has been vacant and he's troubled by it".
You have quite the sharp ears there, huh? Rather, it seems like she's a shrewd collector of contemporary information.
Ravel said, troubled.
"C-Certainly, that is the case, but... we are still considering many things..."
"I see".
The First Generation-sama, who seemed to show a certain understanding, made a complete transformation on her expression and showed a devilish smile, looked over us and said,
"Ufufufu. But you see, children of Gremory, if I, the founder, wanted to, I could force those associated with Gremory to obey me..."
After saying so, the First Generation-sama thrust her hand forward!
Wha!? Something like that is possible?!"
Rias and the rest of us were getting more and more surprised! Is this for real?! Is something like that possible?!
We, the Gremory related people, braced ourselves!
.........
But nothing happened. When we looked towards the First Generation-sama,
"―――I thought it would be good if I could do something like that~. Mumumu..."
She said so while groaning cutely. Then, the First Generation-sama continued with her hand forward and recited: [Obey~, Obey~].
W-Was it a joke...? I thought this ancestor of devils would release her hidden power here.
Then the First Generation-sama looked at Ingvild as if she understood something.
"Oh. ―――That is to say, the replacement for Grayfia-chan is that child after all?"
Ingvild was confused when everyone was looking at her, but...
But while pointing at herself, she looked at Ravel and me and asked,
"Will I be participating in the matches?"
Eer....
When we were asked, Ravel and I were unanimously troubled about how to respond.
―――There, Akeno-san said to everyone present at this place.
"Since we finished watching the match footage, I think it's time to break up for the night, don't you all think so? We have planned to train from the morning tomorrow since it is our day off".
As Akeno-san said, tomorrow we will train with a line-up consisting mainly of new and old members of the Occult Research Club.
The First Generation-sama said.
"So it was like that, huh? Thank you for going along with my selfishness tonight. This can't be treated as a thank you, but as the founder of Gremory, I will teach Rias-chan a secret technique at the training session that will take place tomorrow".
Rias looks surprised at the First Generation-sama's words.
"―――! R-Really?"
When Rias asked so,
"Yes, leave it to me♪"
The First Generation-sama stuck her chest forward, filled with confidence.
―――Since that is the case, the First Generation-sama will join our training tomorrow.
Well, I wonder what is going to happen...
Thus, we finished watching the match between the Cao Cao and Surtr teams and we welcome tomorrow.
Part 3
―――The following day.
We were each doing our own training in the training space used by the Gremory peerage, which spread out in the underground of the Gremory territory.
Incidentally, this training space is not for my exclusive use, but for the Gremory peerage.
After the Hell Disaster, Rugal-san (as Rias's new『Rook』) and Bennia (as my new『Knight』), were assigned to Rias and mine's respective peerages from Sona-senpai's place. Today our training was a day-long one, with lunch breaks in the morning and afternoon: individual training, training focusing on teamwork with the team and countermeasure training against the Champion's Belial team, which was also an issue for my team.
Since the Werewolf man, Rugal-san, can also use magic, his training in Rias' peerage was mainly together with Rias' other『Rook』, Koneko-chan and Rosweisse-san, who was also a『Rook』.
Training with Koneko-chan, a close-quarters combatant and Rossweisse-san, who is a magic expert, was an excellent balance to Rugal-san's abilities.
On the other side, Bennia's training was mainly together with the『Knight』of my team, Xenovia and her partner, the Reincarnated Angel Irina, and Kiba, the『Knight from Rias' peerage. While they were training the characteristic of a『Knight』, which was high-speed battles, Bennia was also making the best use of her inherent ability, which was to slash with her Reaper's scythe.
This time the ones who aren't here are: His Eminence Strada, Crom Cruach and Bova.
There, as a former member of Rias' team, Lint-san said,
"I'll help with whatever I can!"
She would fly around with her angel wings to the training areas spread out all over the vast training space and would show up and gladly take various requests on each occasion.
Similarly, Nimura Ruruko-san, who was transferred to Xenovia's peerage (from Sona-senpai's peerage), also ran around this space with her proud running ability and this time she took on the role of helping with the training.
And that was our line-up. Most of us were dressed in our customary jerseys.
I wanted to ask Crom Cruach, who wasn't here, about Bova, but will the gruelling training that Bova is receiving from that legendary evil dragon end until the next match?
『I hope he didn't collapse from not being able to keep up with Crom Cruach's training.』
Ddraig said from within me.
I trust Crom Cruach, you know? And, of course, I trust Bova, too. But I don't know if they'll get it done in time...
Suddenly, when I looked in the direction where there was a vigorous clashing of auras, which created impact sounds and shockwaves, I saw Gasper, who had turned into a black beast and Nakiri, who had turned into a Dragon Man. They were in the middle of a mock battle between classmates.
"To think you would dodge my Time Stop, not bad!"
"You're also pretty much avoiding all of my serious direct hits by turning into an aura of darkness!"
Nakiri soundlessly moved out of the range of Gasper's Time Stop power. Using Dragon Man's power, he unleashed a flurry of punches and kicks at the hulking beast, but the beast's body turned into darkness and scattered, preventing a direct hit.
Good grief, they can both attack the opponent's weakness, but they choose to fight in hand-to-hand combat. Our comrades, or rather...the lineage of Gremory boys, are all like that! Seeing them makes me think so.
About my training, I've already been here earlier than everyone else with Kiba and we've been training for a long time. So now it's time for a break.
While eating Akeno-san's handmade rice balls (walleye pollock roe), Asia's handmade egg sandwiches and Kiba's handmade rice balls wrapped in meat, I looked at a specific training scene.
"Yes, yes, do your best. My descendant, Rias-chan".
"Y-Yes".
Runeas Gremory, the first Gremory, was training and practising with Rias' mysterious training!
...I think it is the training for the [secret technique by the Gremory ancestor] that the Founder-sama mentioned last night...
Rias was standing still in a pose with her hands outstretched and her legs slightly bent over, her whole body covered in a thin aura.
The First Generation-sama sent out instructions and each time Rias would change her pose, increasing or decreasing the amount of aura.
"Good, Rias-chan. Like that, continue like that".
"Y-Yes".
The First Generation-sama told Rias so while eating sweets.
"H-Hey, Founder-sama, about these sweets..."
I was curious about the sweets and the bag that the First Generation-sama was holding.
The First Generation-sama replied, showing me the bag with a picture of Kiba printed on it.
"This is a pie called『Kyunpai』. It's delicious, you know?"
――Another Kiba related food!?
Kiba, who was by my side before I realised it, had a little complex expression on his face and said,
"...My various nicknames are becoming trademarked in the Underworld, aren't they?"
It seems like everything and any information can become a commercial product when it comes to Rias Gremory, her peerage and those in her lineage... A certain amount of the money generated by these goods is also transferred to our accounts, though...
W-Well, those trivial things aside, I asked the First Generation-sama.
"By the way, what is Rias doing? What kind of technique is this? Oh, you can only teach this to your direct descendants, right? I'm sorry..."
I thought I said too much, so I apologised. However, the First Generation-sama didn't care and answered me.
"You mean this secret technique? Let's see―――probably, I think it might have been that kind of technique".
―――!
...P-Probably?
Just now, terrifying words entered my ears... Meanwhile, Rias was still taking all kinds of positions with a serious attitude...
Rias, the person in question, heard the order of the First Generation-sama and stood on one leg, striking a pose reminiscent of the Swan Lake ballet.
The First Generation-sama's expression turned doubtful and she said.
"Huh? Was this one different? Or rather, this secret technique... Hmm, was it really transferred by oral instruction...? Certainly, I thought it was an amazing technique back then, some hundreds, thousands of years ago... no, but this idea was also refused by the family head of that time..."
The First Generation-sama pondered about it, but then opened the next bag of『Kyunpai』and said, seemingly defiantly, as she bit the pie.
"Well, it'll become good training. I mean, she's moving her body".
That's too irresponsible! What a free spirit this First Generation-sama is!
Unaware of that, Rias earnestly begged for more instructions.
"Founder-sama! What should I do next?"
"That's right. Err... try taking a Gremory-like pose while thinking about three camels?"
"A... G-Gremory-like pose... something like this? It's quite bothersome to have to think about camels, though".
"Then, keep that pose for about 5 minutes".
"Y-Yes!"
Seeing Rias, her descendant, taking an odd pose that makes one recall a camel (?), the First Generation-sama blurted out.
"...Ah, this. This doesn't look good".
That is terrible! What the hell is that!?
I was so surprised that my eyeballs nearly popped out of my head at the comments and actions of the Gremory founder, who was too free!
But, well, no matter how you look at it, this training is a bad idea...
I'll tell Rias that at the right time and in the right way. This way, she'll suffer less damage...
"...Well, we may be doing this and that, but... If I, the founder, get directly involved, my descendants may develop some unique『Traits』 ...But if it's Rias-chan... Mmm".
The First Generation-sama was pondering while muttering some meaningful words.
―――This training was exploding with suspicion, but in her own way, was the First Generation-sama trying to achieve something by seriously training her descendant, Rias?
Then, an unexpected figure appeared in this place.
"...What is Rias doing?"
A puzzled Riser Phenex appeared from behind while watching Rias' training.
"Oh, Riser-san. You came".
"Yeah, because we lost the match. My schedule has become more relaxed because I'm no longer training for competitions, so I thought I'd come and see you guys and then, the Gremory people told me about this place".
I see, so he has come to see us.
"I saw your match..."
I said so with a regrettable tone of voice.
Riser Phenex's team in the International Rating Game Tournament, the『Phoenix』team, had been eliminated in the main tournament.
The opponent they fought against was the team『Leisure of the Kings』. It was the team with a mix of gods from Greek and Norse mythology that we fought in the qualifying matches and has Typhon, the King of Monsters as its『King』.
Their team is one of the strongest and most powerful teams even in the eliminating rounds of the competition, with the current Norse Chief God, Vidar and the current Olympus' Chief God, Apollon, as team members. They are also one of the favourites to win.
Riser's team included his older brother, Ruval Phenex as the『King』, the Sacred Beast Phoenix, the Sacred Bird of Egyptian mythology, Bennu and the possessor of the Longinus『Unknown Dictator』Magnus Rose-san (whose main job is being a CIA agent).
Under the『King』Ruval, whose name has been in the top ten rankers of the Rating Game, the battle was fought using tactics that also utilised the Phenex's immortality, but....
The opposing team used the full power of the legendary monster and gods, forcing even the Phenex's immortality to break down and... the『Phoenix』team was defeated.
Riser said with a bright expression.
"Well, it was a good fight. As I thought, our Phenex's immortality can't endure the attacks of God-Class opponents. ...Or rather, how did you guys beat those guys...? Your title as a Special-Class Devil isn't just for show".
"No, I didn't have the rank of a Special-Class Devil at that time... Also, we struggled a lot too in that fight".
It's true. If Ddraig hadn't manifested in the match against the『 Leisure of the Kings』team... We would have been the ones to lose. That's just how strong the opponents were.
...Since we were dealing with God-Class opponents, I guess it's not enough to just say that [They are too strong], but... we've fought many different opponents too.
『That just shows how strong you have become, Partner.』
Ddraig said so from within me.
"If Ddraig hadn't manifested, we would have lost for sure".
When I revealed my honest feelings, Riser bitterly smiled and said, [If only we could create miracles like you guys].
―――Since a while ago, Riser has been glancing towards a particular direction with curiosity.
That's right, he was looking at the First Generation-sama! As expected of the lewd Phenex!
Then, he asked me in a whisper.
(By the way, I've been curious for a while, but who is that crimson-haired girl over there?)
(Oh, err...)
I was troubled about how to respond.
The First Generation-sama's identity has only been revealed to those that have a close relationship with the Gremory.... Riser's visit was unexpected, so this kind of conflict happened.
Then, while I was racking my brain thinking about how I should respond...
The First Generation-sama noticed us and approached smiling.
"Nice to meet you. You're someone from the Phenex household, right?"
The First Generation-sama suddenly talked to Riser like that.
Riser straightened his jacket and said with a smile.
"Y-Yes, I'm Riser Phenex. The third son of the Phenex household. Or rather, you're someone from the Gremory household and still don't know about me?"
When Riser asked back, the First Generation-sama said this with an apologetic expression:
"I'm sorry. I've been living a life far away from this society..."
Then she started making a shocking introduction!
"My name is Neas Gremory. I am Rias Onee-sama's... little sister from a different mother".
―――!
...Oh my god!!! Rias suddenly has a little sister with complicated circumstances!? This conversation did not reach Rias, the person in question, who was only seriously engaged in mysterious posing exercises.
To think the First Generation-sama would suddenly introduce herself with a lie, a graceful smile on her face and say that without a care in the world!
Riser nodded as if he understood it.
"―――So that's the case, I see. ...Sigh, Zeoticus-sama, too, can't be underestimated, huh?"
Riser smiled bitterly in a meaningful way.
"It makes sense that you didn't know about me, Rias' ex-fiancé. After all, due to complicated circumstances, you have been living far away from the main family... However, recently that has been lifted and finally, you sisters can now see each other. So that's how it is, huh? I understand. I understand..."
What the hell. Why is this guy fantasising, talking by himself and agreeing with the things he's talking about...?
"That's right. Ufufufu".
Riding the setting made by Riser, the First Generation-sama smiled!
Rias' father. An extraordinary setting has been created in an extraordinary place... In my mind, I could see the face of the current Gremory family head, Zeoticus Gremory, who was laughing cheerfully "hahaha" without knowing the circumstances of the occasion...
This complicated family situation will only deepen as their conversation continues. I may have to intervene and interrupt the conversation at some point....
While I was pondering what I should do, Rossweisse-san walked up to this place. I guess she has finished her training with Rugal-san.
Then, Rossweisse-san spoke to Riser.
"Riser Phenex-san. Do you have some time?"
"Hmm? Do you have something to ask of me?"
Did Rossweisse-san come here because she saw Riser here?
Rossweisse-san nodded at Riser's words and continued talking.
"Yes. I've come to ask you about that flame… That flame your team used when you fought against Vidar-sama's team".
When I heard Rossweisse-san's words, I remembered what happened when I saw the recorded footage of Riser's team match.
The Sacred Beast Phoenix, together with the Devil Phoenix, the Phenex (Ruval-san and Riser), simultaneously created a tremendous flame, to which the Sacred Bird of Egyptian mythology, Bennu, added its divine aura to it. That resulted in a seven-coloured flame that glowed in seven colours that I'd never seen before.
Then, they covered both the current Chief God of Norse mythology, Vidar-san and the『King』of the opposing team, Typhon, with it.
Although significant damage was inflicted on both, the flames created by the sacred and demonic phoenixes were drowned out by the tremendous aura waves of Vidar-san, who was wearing an armour made by one of the Five Great Dragon Kings, Midgardsormr and Typhon, the King of Monsters.
"Oh, about that, huh? Did something bad happen?"
Riser asked Rosswiesse-san and Rossweisse-san replied with a complex expression.
"I have been contacted by my home country...Asgard and they asked me,『Do you have any magic to heal burns?』It seems like the burns sustained by Vidar-sama have not healed at all".
―――!
Are you for real!? Vidar-san, who was hit by that seven-coloured flame, has burnt damage even since then...
Riser said, crossed his arms and looked at me.
"It is embarrassing to talk about that when the Sekiryuutei himself is in front of me. But my older brother, Ruval Phenex, said it would be amazing if we could use the legendary『Blazing Inferno of Scorching Flames』with the immortal bird, Phoenix's flames and everyone agreed. So, after much research and study, it was perfected in a combined technique done by the Sacred Beast Phoenix and the Immortal Sacred Bird, Bennu. Right before the match against the『Leisure of the Kings』team".
So their technique was developed using Ddraig's inextinguishable flame breath,『Blazing Inferno of Scorching Flames』as the basis, huh?
"Did you use it without knowing its effects, by any chance?"
When I asked this, Riser said embarrassedly.
"Yes. That is why we didn't do enough research to find out what effect the flames would have on the opponent in addition to the damage they'd cause. ...But, I see, so you're saying that those flames even inflicted burns that the current Chief God of the Norse can't heal, huh?"
They used it in a rush. Therefore, they didn't know its effects. ...But Vidar-san――, even a God can't heal himself from the damage inflicted by those flames... I wonder if that means that they have developed another terrifying flame, which is different from Ddraig's『Blazing Inferno of Scorching Flames』?
Perhaps, Typhon, who was hit by the phoenixes' combined flame technique with Vidar-san, may not have healed from the burns too.
Rossweisse-san heard the information from Riser and pondered.
"...So the technique, which imitated the Sekiryuutei's unquenchable flames,『Blazing Inferno of Scorching Flames』, inflicted unhealable burns on the opponent, that not even gods could heal, huh?"
Rossweisse-san asked Riser again.
"If there are any special offensive magic circles or demonic power manipulation, may I ask for more information?"
"Yeah, we could inquire about it to the Sacred Beast Phoenix, or the Sacred Bird, Bennu".
"Then let's talk about it in more detail over there".
Rossweisse-san pointed towards a table and chairs set up in one corner of the training space for resting.
Riser agreed and said, [Understood] and they walked away towards the table.
Vidar-san's team was able to beat Riser's team, but will they be fine by the next match? More importantly, a Chief God being injured isn't a good thing.
After seeing Rossweisse-san and Riser off, I was concerned about Rias, but I was also worried about a certain someone's training trend, so I grew my dragon wings from my back and flew out of this place in the direction where I could feel that girl's aura.
There, lightning bolts, raging flames, spears of light and powerful kicks clad in aura were flying about. And the one receiving them was――Ingvild.
It was the lightning bolts emitted by Akeno-san, the multiple fireballs shot from Ravel's wings of flame, the spears of light thrown by Lint-san and Nimura-san's aura kicks.
Ingvild defended herself against their attacks with a defensive magic circle. However, it wasn't just any defensive magic circle. It was a multi-layered defensive magic circle built with her vast aura.
While her offensive magic was growing, the next thing we worried about was Ingvild's defence. For this reason, the construction of defensive magic circles has also been strengthened in her recent training.
"Mmm-hmm, just like that. Ingvild-san".
It was Roygun-san who was advising her from the side. In this training, Roygun-san was an adviser on demonic power manipulation and she stayed with Ingvild.
...Ingvild was simply piling up her abundant aura into multiple thick defensive-type magic circles, but... she still managed to prevent Akeno-san and the others' attacks...
Even though Akeno-san, Ravel and the others weren't really serious, Ingvild's defensive magic circles didn't move even a little bit under their attacks…
"Ara, Ise-kun".
Akeno-san noticed that I had come here and everyone turned to look at me.
I asked.
"How is Ingvild doing?"
Ravel said while wiping the sweat from her forehead with her hand.
"I'm sure with a few more practice sessions of this kind, she'll be able to defend against even more powerful attacks".
Akeno-san continued.
"For now, her magic circles are simply thick, but at this rate, she should be able to learn some more flexible and effective means".
She received a thumbs up from our manager and Akeno-san, huh?
Roygun-san said.
"Starting with the water element, which is her speciality, she's doing flawlessly even with the other elements. Though she still has a lot of work to do on the technical part, her strength lies in the fact that she can use her enormous amount of aura to compete on the offensive side with quantity".
I see, as expected of a genius, huh? The person in question, Ingvild, was standing still, fighting the sleepiness by shaking her head to get rid of it....
The rest depends on time, I guess. If it's like this, I think we'll be barely on time?
In my opinion, Ingvild should be our next――
When I was pondering about it, suddenly, a visitor appeared here.
"This child, surely she's a descendant of the first Leviathan-sama, isn't she? Although it seems like she has some human blood mixed in her".
―――!!
It was the First Generation-sama! Arara! She was accompanying Rias in her training until just now! Did she follow me here? Rias doesn't seem to be here... I guess she's still doing that mysterious training of hers, huh?
Ravel nodded at the First Generation-sama's question.
"Yes, that's right".
The First Generation-sama walked up to Ingvild and began to stare and observe her.
"I wonder how much of Maou Leviathan's power she has inherited. Can she use Leviathan's trait『Sea Serpent of the End』?"
"...No".
Ingvild shook her head at the Founder-sama's question. Then, the First Generation-sama put her finger to her chin and said.
"The unique traits of the original Four Great Maou's were... Leviathan-sama's『Sea Serpent of the End』, Asmodeus-sama's『Starsend Moment』, Beelzebub-sama's『King of the Flies』, and Lucifer-sama's『Demonic Brilliance of Evil Light』. Only a few of those Maou descendants in the Old Maou Faction manifested these powers, right?"
The unique traits of the original Four Great Maous, huh? I think that Shalba Beelzebub, who I fought, may have used something similar.
"...Well, Prince Rizevim developed his own power, though".
The First Generation-sama complemented.
I guess she's talking about the『Sacred Gear Canceller』. That was... a brutal power.
The First Generation-sama pondered and then pointed her finger at Ingvild, looked at us and stated.
"Probably, I may be able to help draw out that girl's power".
『―――!?』
The members of this place were shocked!
Of course, we are! It's only natural that we would become surprised when she suddenly says that she can draw out Leviathan's power!
The First Generation-sama said.
"A long time ago, when we were two old Devil girls, I had a connection with Leviathan-sama... If we were to put it in the words of this era, it should be something like a girls-only gathering. When she was drunk, Leviathan-sama said that she had made an inscription on a stone board describing her powers for when she had descendants in the distant future..."
A g-girls-only gathering... So they had these even a long time ago, huh?
"I wonder if the current government isn't managing this kind of thing? It wouldn't have been strange if it was confiscated in the previous civil war".
When the First Generation-sama said so, Akeno-san and Ravel deployed small magic circles in their hands and said, [Please wait a moment] and began to search for information.
After about five minutes, they both said, [I couldn't find anything...] and shook their heads.
Then, the First Generation-sama thought for a moment and then stated.
"Then, probably, it's at the Bael household. Because it wouldn't have been strange if it was collected by them behind-the-scenes".
...Ah, the Bael household, huh? If it is that first Bael, then it wouldn't be strange if he has ownership of it while Sairaorg-san is unaware.
―――Since it came to this, the problem now is how we should ask the Bael household about it, huh?
I crossed my arms with a difficult look on my face and said.
"...What should we do? It would be good if we asked them to show it to us if they have it and they showed it to us... I wonder if we can see it through Sairaorg-san. If necessary, I wonder if they would show it to us if we used the name of Team『D×D』..."
Ravel also said, troubled.
"It's a relic of an old Maou, so it is under the content of things we can question, but.... The time may not be good. Because, after all, the Bael household is also participating in the Rating Game tournament".
Yeah, they are in the same tournament bracket as our team in this tournament. So even if we are members of the same team『D×D』, we are enemies in the tournament, so it would be a bit of a hassle from their perspective, wouldn't it?
"Considering the content and timing, it's unlikely we'll get a permit for free".
Akeno-san also stated this while putting her hand on her chin.
If it's something that they don't want to show to us, they might say, [We don't have such a thing], or [We have it, but we can't show it to you], or [We, the Bael team, is currently in secret training. Moreover, since we are enemies during the tournament, contact from your side is improper]. Or they may reject because we are both teams in the main competition, or they simply don't have it.
Sairaorg-san would gladly show it to us, but when all is said and done, it involves the first generation Bael, so it might not be something that can be done with only Sairaorg-san's will.
『Hmmm...』
We all groaned as we pondered. Meanwhile, Ingvild tilted her head and had a question mark over her head...
―――Then, the first generation Gremory asked us this:
"Bael? By first generation Bael, do you mean Zekram?"
"H-Huh? Yes".
When I replied, The First Generation-sama showed a mischievous smile.
"Ufufu♪ Okay, you can leave that with this first generation Gremory".
"...Do you have a plan?"
When Ravel asked, the First Generation-sama winked with confidence.
"Leave it to me♪"
Oh, seriously! Do you mean there is some way to break the ice between them since they are both devils who have been living since ancient times, against that first Bael!?
Then, the First Generation-sama said to Ingvild.
"Ingvild...chan, I'll call you that. Okay? What are you going to do, Ingvild-chan? Would you like to see the relic of the first Leviathan-sama, if you could? There's a chance that maybe you won't be the person you are now. So you may need to be suitably determined".
It was a serious question. Maybe it was a question to me, Ingvild's『King』and her manager, Ravel.
Ingvild looked at me.
I nodded. You can decide, ――Then.
Ingvild declared with a firm gaze.
"...I, I want to help everyone... I want to help Issei. If I have the power to protect the people of the Hyoudou family, who have been kind to me since I've woken up and the people who have looked after me... I want to become stronger. Besides――".
There, Ingvild looked at Ravel and me and said,
"I want to fight with Issei and the others as their『Queen』in the Rating Game... I mean, if this power can be useful..."
The image of Ingvild suddenly reminded me of me in my second year of high school, when I was just starting out as a Devil and I fought hard for Rias.
...When I lacked experience, demonic power, power, aura and brains... Still, I used everything I had and ran through everything for Rias and my friends.
Ingvild is working hard at her Devil's job, her studies as a Devil and her training to become stronger. She has exceptional talent, yet she still works hard for the sake of her friends.
I looked at Ravel and my manager nodded.
Confirming that, I smiled and said to Ingvild.
"All right, Ingvild".
Then, I told the First Generation-sama.
"Please, lend me your power".
The first generation Gremory, Runeas Gremory-sama, smiled with satisfaction at my answer.
"Yes, it is all right. Children of my Gremory lineage, leave it to me".
Thus, we headed to the castle of the Bael household.
Part 4
Ravel, Me, Rias (who finished that training of hers), Akeno-san, Ingvild and the First Generation-sama, left the training space temporarily, headed to Gremory castle, prepared ourselves and then made an appointment with the Bael household. I mean, it would be rude to go there in sweaty jerseys.
Anyway, we made an appointment via Sairaorg-san.
We jumped to the Bael castle using a magic circle to deal with it as fast as possible.
There, Sairaorg-san welcomed us to the castle, which was even bigger and more magnificent than the Gremory castle.
"Hello, Rias, Hyoudou Issei and everyone else too. To think you would take your time to come to the Bael castle. So, with what can I help you――".
Suddenly, Sairaorg-san's gaze moved to the First Generation-sama. Because he wasn't acquainted with her.
While Rias and I were racking our brains thinking about how we should get over this, Sairaorg-san asked.
"Hmm? Crimson hair… I've never seen this woman. Is she someone from the Gremory household?"
"Err, that is――".
"My name is Neas Gremory. I am Rias Onee-sama's... little sister from a different mother".
―――!
......S-She did it! Are you going to introduce yourself like that again!? Rias, who didn't know that the same thing happened when Riser appeared, was so surprised that her eyes nearly flew out of their sockets!
"Oh my! In other words, you're uncle――".
"Yes. I'm the daughter of Zeoticus Otou-sama... with his second-most beloved woman".
Knowing this, Sairaorg-san had a sombre countenance!
Sairaorg-san was attacked by a terrible misunderstanding!
As if trying to squeeze it out of his throat, Sairaorg-san said.
".........I'm sure uncle, too, had his circumstances. This is something common for noble devils. Rias, Neas, I'm sure both of you have many things going through your minds. I can sympathise with it".
Rias's father is being misunderstood by more and more people without his knowledge...
Rias also found it hard to make excuses in front of the First Generation-sama...
"...Yeah, sympathise with it. Also, let me make an excuse later".
"Oh, Rias. As your cousin and friend, I'm always available for advice. Because it's not good to hold these things by oneself".
"That's right. ...There are some things you just can't handle alone...."
Rias had no choice but to reply as so.
".....Pffp!"
Seeing this, Akeno-san was holding back her laughter. Akeno-san likes to see Rias in this kind of cute bewildered state, doesn't she?
The First Generation-sama, Neas Gremory, said to Sairaorg-san with a cute voice.
"So, Sairaorg Onii-sama".
When he heard her calling him like that, Sairaorg-san had an expression as if he had received a shock.
"―――Onii-sama".
"...Was it rude to call you so?"
Asked the First Generation-sama, puzzled.
Sairaorg-san coughed.
"N-No. It's just that you're the first little sister-like person in my life. Rias feels more like a female blood relative than a little sister. But, I s-see, Onii-sama, huh? ...Maybe that's not so bad".
Sairaorg-san scratched his cheek while his face was a little red!
Sairaorg-san―――the Lion King was being captivated by a little sisterrrr!
Without a pause, the First Generation-sama stated, with her pretty voice.
"We have come here to meet the first Bael-sama. Would it be possible for us to meet with him...?"
Said the First Generation-sama with upturned eyes. Sairaorg-san, who was perplexed by her little sister-like presence, replied.
"The First Generation-sama, huh? It seems he has business in this castle, so he is here, but... hmm".
As if to press for an answer, the first generation Gremory said.
"Sairaorg Onii-sama, if you tell the first Bael:『Your idol, the Gremory of Gremory's, is here. Tehee♪』, I'm sure he'll understand right away. I know that I'm asking you to do something very rude, but... I'm sure he will understand, Sairaorg Onii-sama. Please, lend me your help, Sairaorg Onii-sama".
Defeated by the First Generation-sama, who was pressing him hard, Sairaorg-san said, "I understand. I'll ask him".
Towards the end, it was more like Sairaorg-san was overwhelmed by the mysterious power of the First Generation-sama than being fascinated with her little sister-like presence...
The First Generation-sama turned to us, winked and made a V-sign with her hands.
"Ufufu, as I thought, that descendent-kun is a Bael too, after all. This really works. Rias-chan, you should remember this".
Rias could only sigh.
We made an appointment with the first Bael like that, but... it seems like it worked.
We're being guided by the butler of the Bael household to the castle library, where Zekram Bael, the first Bael, is said to be.
We were shown to the library of Bael Castle, which was more spacious than the average library in the human world, so much so that you couldn't even see its back. The ceiling was also surprisingly high. There were countless bookshelves and countless books were contained on them. The tall bookshelves were equipped with stair-like ladders at regular intervals.
We followed the butler for a few minutes.
"How do you do? Everyone".
We heard a voice from above and looked up. We saw an elderly man with an air of dignity about him opening a book at the top of a ladder.
It was Zekram Bael, the first family head of the Bael household.
His purple eyes, which were the same as Sairaorg-san's, caught us. Then, he shifted his gaze a little and looked at the First Generation Gremory-sama as if he was looking at a rare person.
There, the first Bael gave the butler a look to step back. The butler bowed and left the place. When he finished ordering his servant to leave, the first Bael closed the book he was holding and sighed.
"...Fuuh~...".
Unsatisfied with that reaction, the First Gremory-sama raised one of her eyebrows, placed one of her hands on her waist and boldly said:
"Wait a minute there, Zekram. Even though your Idol has come to visit you, you aren't going to greet me?"
"You don't change, huh? Runeas".
"I sleep and wake up to stay the same. Well, maybe it's a good thing I woke up this time. After all, there's a lot of interesting things going on".
"...This could be destiny as well".
"『This could be destiny as well』...No, it is not. You've always liked putting on airs, huh?"
The First Gremory-sama said, imitating the first Bael.
There, with a mischievous smile, the First Gremory-sama said.
"Ora ora, if you don't want your secret being exposed to everyone――".
Ignoring the First Gremory-sama who was about to say something, the first Bael deployed a small magic circle in his hand.
There, a deep blue board-like object appeared. It was about the size and thickness of a typical school notebook.
The first Bael covered it with his aura and sent it drifting through the air towards Ravel.
When Ravel caught the blue board with both hands, the aura disappeared.
The first Bael said,
"――I'll lend that to you. However, I want a report of the results later".
He said that to Ingvild's『King』, in other words, me, my manager, Ravel and Ingvild. He was especially staring at Ingvild as if thinking of something.
――Then, the first Bael's line of sight returned to the first Gremory-sama.
"Is that all right, Runeas?"
"Yes, it is. Or rather, as I thought, you had it, huh? You're really cunning when it comes to this kind of thing".
The first Gremory smiled with satisfaction.
"I'd usually give you all an old man's scolding and then give you the green light――but since I've met my dear old idol or whatever. Let's not do that today".
Said the first Bael.
Was she curious? The First Gremory-sama asked.
"By the way, Zekram. What are you doing here? Holed up in the castle's library of the current head of the Bael family?"
"We are digitising the books in the Bael family's collection. I'm in the process of sorting through them".
"Ah, it's so convenient to read books on a tablet PC, isn't it?"
"It's the wave of the times. Paper books are good, but we are living in difficult times, so these precious books might burn. Even magical books with powers and wills can burn when the fire comes. So it would be better to at least copy their contents. The Gremory's are digitising their books, too, aren't they?"
There, he asked Rias and she said [Yes].
The first Bael looked at the blue-stone board on Ravel's hand and said.
"Unexpectedly, things made of hard stone are more likely to remain for longer times, eh?"
Then, the First Gremory-sama suddenly took something out of her pocket and threw it at the first Bael. The first Bael caught it skillfully.
Looking closely――it was a bag of sweet pies『Kyunpai』.
The First Gremory-sama said.
"This is my thanks".
"Are these sweets?"
"――It's called『Kyunpai』, it's delicious".
"Hmm,『Kyunpai』, huh?"
While the first Bael and the First Gremory-sama had this indescribable chat, the aforementioned first Leviathan's relic, in other words, the blue board, fell into our possession.
Let's leave aside the fact that the Bael household later placed an order for more 『Kyunpai』.
The First Gremory-sama said enthusiastically.
"Alright, all of you. Let's go back to the training space and try!"
I'm sure the person who enjoyed this process the most was her.
While I thought so, we returned to our training space.
Ingvild was touching the board in the training space, the relic of the first Leviathan lent to her by the first Bael, while everyone watched her.
She closed her eyes and calmed her mind. Then, she turned her consciousness to the blue board. However, the board didn't react.
"...It's useless. I can't feel anything".
Ingvild said so.
There, the First Generation-sama advised her like this,
"Then, let's do it like this. Try looking at it as words, phrases, or even sounds that you can understand. Imagine that in your mind and try to touch it, not with letters or words, but with your senses".
Following the advice of the First Generation-sama, Ingvild touched the blue board again. A little while later, Ingvild began to hum something.
"...――――♪"
It was... a song. After all, singing is her speciality. Her clear, beautiful voice echoed all around us.
It wasn't her usual singing voice that affects dragons derived from her Sacred Gear, but a singing voice tinged with demonic power.
The First Generation-sama said.
"I see. She is trying to understand the thing left by Leviathan-sama through music".
Ingvild's entire body oozed a pale, light-purple aura. In response, the blue board emitted a purple radiance.
――――!!
The relic, the board, reacted! Moreover, demonic letters and patterns appeared on the board!
"――――♪ ――――♪".
Ingvild continued to sing a song I'd never heard her sing before and at the same time, her aura grew, swelled and gradually, the water created by her aura gathered around Ingvild.
Large quantities of water reacted to Ingvild's song and spiralled upwards.
Without stopping, more and more water element aura gathered in the air above to form something huge and powerful.
We just watched the scene. Ravel looked up into the air and said.
"One of the concerns I had was: If the field at the next match was completely devoid of water, how far would Ingvild-sama be able to show her powers?"
While Ravel said so, I could only be surprised seeing what was being produced right above Ingvild, who continued to sing.
A water dragon made of demonic power with a long, serpentine body floated in the sky. The size of the dragon was well over a hundred metres.
And it was still getting bigger and new water dragons were being created.
Ravel said in amazement.
"...Since she showed me this, I think my worries were blown away".
I said to Ravel.
"I know I'm still full of problems, so I can't say much, but I feel like our unexpectedness and explosiveness are our strengths, so let's let Ingvild fight in the next match".
Ravel, who was standing next to me, replied with a smile.
"Yes, I'll obey the will of my『King』."
While looking at the still-growing water dragon, the First Generation-sama stretched out with a 'hmmm'.
"Well. I guess my role ends like this, right? Now you just need to do your best. My dear Gremory children".
The First Generation-sama said so and was leaving this place. ――But then, as if she remembered something, the First Generation-sama said to Rias,
"Oh, yeah, Rias-chan. Come to my place later. I understood many things due to this happening today, so I'll give you more training. After all, it would be wonderful if the next family head of the Gremory household were to become strong by associating with the Gremory founder".
"―――!? ...Yes, I'll be under your care. First Gremory, Runeas-sama".
Replied Rias energetically.
The First Gremory-sama is quite the free spirit by doing this and that, but as a result, I think we've moved forward too.
However―――.
...What about the misunderstanding that has befallen the current Gremory family head?
"Is Rias' little sister doing well?"
"What happened to that girl? I'd like to see her again".
I could only struggle thinking about how I should clear up the misunderstanding that Sairaorg-san and Riser had.