The announcement of the peerage game between Raizer Phoenix and Rias Gremory had turned into a spectacle the likes of which the underworld rarely witnessed. What had started as a clash born of personal frustration had grown into an event of political and social significance, drawing attention from nearly every corner of the devil world.
In the days leading up to the match, whispers echoed through noble estates, council chambers, and public forums. Raizer Phoenix's unorthodox peerage was the talk of the underworld, and everyone had an opinion. Some called him a trailblazer, a bold young devil shaking up centuries of tradition. Others dismissed him as a reckless upstart, disrespecting the old ways.
Regardless of their opinions, the one thing everyone agreed on was this: they had to see the match.
The Grand Arena
The arena chosen for the match was a magnificent structure, carved into the side of a massive mountain. Its enchanted barriers shimmered faintly under the dim glow of the underworld's eternal twilight. Capable of containing even the most devastating magical attacks, the arena ensured that the spectators could watch safely while the combatants fought with everything they had.
Seats for the event were divided by status. The highest-ranking devils, including the Four Demon Lords and the heads of noble houses, were given prime seating in private balconies that overlooked the battlefield. Beneath them, nobles of lower rank filled the viewing stands, their murmured conversations blending into a quiet hum of anticipation.
The Four Demon Lords Arrive
At the apex of the arena, a luxurious balcony had been reserved for the Four Demon Lords, the most powerful figures in the underworld. Their arrival caused a ripple of excitement and anxiety among the crowd.
Sirzechs Lucifer
Sirzechs Lucifer, the strongest of the Demon Lords and Rias's older brother, entered first. Dressed in an elegant black coat embroidered with silver accents, his presence commanded attention. His crimson hair shimmered under the faint magical light, and his calm, confident expression gave little away.
"This should be interesting," Sirzechs said, his deep voice carrying a hint of curiosity as he took his seat.
Beside him stood Grayfia Lucifuge, his wife and queen. Her expression was composed as always, but her silver eyes held a subtle sharpness.
"You seem unusually invested," Grayfia noted, her tone neutral.
"She's my sister," Sirzechs replied simply. "And this match will define her future—and Raizer's."
Grayfia nodded. "True. But it will also shape perceptions of the peerage system itself."
Serafall Leviathan
Next to arrive was Serafall Leviathan, the second Demon Lord and Sona Sitri's older sister. True to form, Serafall's outfit was a blend of whimsy and flair, a magical girl costume complete with glittering accessories. Her energy was infectious as she practically skipped to her seat.
"Yay! My little Rias is going to show everyone how amazing she is!" Serafall cheered, clapping her hands together.
Sirzechs gave her a sidelong glance, smiling faintly. "You're very optimistic, Serafall."
"Of course I am!" Serafall beamed. "Rias has been working so hard. She's going to knock that Phoenix guy down a peg."
Grayfia raised an eyebrow. "Raizer Phoenix's peerage is unlike anything we've seen before. This won't be an easy match for Rias."
"Pfft, details," Serafall said, waving a hand dismissively. "She's got heart, and that's what matters!"
Ajuka Beelzebub
Ajuka Beelzebub entered next, his sharp green eyes taking in the arena with quiet curiosity. As the most intelligent of the Demon Lords, Ajuka exuded an air of calm analysis. He wore a simple but elegant suit, his reserved demeanor a stark contrast to Serafall's exuberance.
"This match is going to be more than a simple contest," Ajuka remarked as he took his seat.
Sirzechs nodded. "It's already a political event. Raizer's unorthodox peerage has everyone talking."
Ajuka tilted his head slightly. "Not just talking. Watching. Every noble house is here, waiting to see if his methods are a sign of the future—or a fleeting anomaly."
Falbium Asmodeus
The final Demon Lord to arrive was Falbium Asmodeus, the most laid-back of the four. Dressed in a loose, comfortable robe, he strolled into the balcony with a yawn, his disinterest evident.
"This better be worth the trip," Falbium muttered, slumping into his chair. "I could've been napping."
Ajuka gave him a pointed look. "You might find this match more intriguing than you expect."
Falbium sighed. "We'll see. If it's just a bunch of kids throwing fireballs, I'm leaving."
The Noble Houses React
Below the Demon Lords, the noble houses filled the stands, their conversations creating a quiet buzz of speculation.
Zekram Bael
Lord Zekram Bael, the head of the Bael family, sat with his arms crossed, his expression grim. He glared at the battlefield as if it personally offended him.
"This entire match is a disgrace," Zekram muttered to his aide. "Raizer Phoenix has turned the peerage games into a spectacle. Where's the respect for tradition?"
His aide hesitated. "But my lord, isn't the point of the games to test leadership and strength? Raizer's peerage is a testament to his ability to gather power."
Zekram scowled. "Power without respect for history is meaningless."
Venelana and Zeoticus Gremory
In the Gremory section, Lord and Lady Gremory sat side by side, their expressions contrasting sharply. While Venelana maintained her usual composed demeanor, Zeoticus looked visibly anxious.
"Do you think Rias is ready for this?" Zeoticus asked, his voice tight.
Venelana smiled faintly. "Ready or not, she's determined. This match will be a valuable lesson, regardless of the outcome."
Zeoticus sighed, glancing at the arena. "But Raizer's peerage… they're not normal devils. They're legends. How is she supposed to compete with that?"
Venelana's eyes softened. "By finding her own strength. Rias has always relied on her confidence. Perhaps now she'll learn to rely on more."
Sona Sitri
In the Sitri section, Sona Sitri sat with her queen, Tsubaki Shinra. The two observed the arena quietly, their expressions thoughtful.
"This match will define more than just Raizer and Rias," Sona said, her voice calm. "It will set a precedent for how peerages are viewed."
Tsubaki nodded. "Raizer's approach is certainly unique. But do you think it's sustainable?"
"That depends on the outcome," Sona replied. "If Raizer's peerage wins decisively, it will challenge the old ways. If they lose, it will reinforce tradition."
Sirzechs's Perspective
Back in the Demon Lords' balcony, Sirzechs leaned forward slightly, his gaze fixed on the battlefield.
"This match is more than just a game," Sirzechs murmured. "It's a statement."
Grayfia glanced at him. "A statement about what?"
"About the future," Sirzechs said quietly. "Raizer Phoenix represents a shift in how devils approach power. If he succeeds, it will force everyone to reconsider their methods."
Grayfia's expression didn't change, but her tone was thoughtful. "And if he fails?"
"Then it will prove that tradition still holds value," Sirzechs replied. "Either way, the underworld won't be the same after this."
The Stage is Set
As the crowd settled in and the preparations for the match began, a tense silence fell over the arena. Both peerages stood at opposite ends of the battlefield, their contrasting energies palpable.
On one side, Rias Gremory's team radiated nervous determination, their loyalty to their king evident despite the odds stacked against them.
On the other side, Raizer Phoenix's peerage stood calm and confident, their presence alone enough to send shivers through the crowd.
The match had yet to begin, but one thing was certain: the entire underworld was watching.
This expanded chapter delves deeper into the perspectives of the Demon Lords and noble houses, emphasizing the political and social stakes of the match. Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to add!