Chapter [134]

Mansion Gremory

Rias POV

As I watched Riser's Rating Game, I couldn't help but be impressed by his performance. His battle prowess was truly remarkable, and Merlin, his bishop, was showing incredible ease in defeating multiple opponents. I lay on my bed, holding my phone, completely absorbed in the competition.

A part of me still marveled at Riser's ability. As much as I hated to admit it, he was ahead of me, and even my cousin Sairaorg was far from the level of mastery Riser demonstrated at that moment.

Realizing my own shock at this reality, I took a deep breath, trying to push away any feelings of envy that might arise. After all, as a member of the Gremory House, it was important for me to recognize and value talent, even if it belonged to someone with whom I had once had a falling out.

If I had that level of strength myself, I could break off the engagement without needing anyone's help. Honestly, I wanted to know how Riser, who was always known as a playboy and lazy, managed to become so strong at his age. Perhaps there was more to him than I imagined.

End of Rias POV

Without Rias' knowledge, in one of the bedrooms, something unusual was happening. Issei, who had been in a coma for a few days, began to show signs that he was about to awaken.

Inside the quiet room, Issei lay on his bed, his breathing calm and steady indicating his deep slumber. However, a slight stirring began to pass through his body, as if something were moving beneath the surface of his consciousness.

His hands, which had been motionless by his side, started to move slowly, as if reaching for something beyond physical reach. His face, once serene and relaxed, now showed signs of activity, with his eyebrows furrowed in a expression of concentration.

A subtle stream of energy began to manifest around Issei, emitting a faint aura that slightly illuminated the dark room. It was as if his own essence were preparing to return to consciousness, even if only on a subconscious level.

Inside the gauntlet on Issei's arm, Ddraig vibrated with anticipation.

"Well done, partner," he said, his voice echoing in Issei's mind. "Soon you will awaken and realize all the strength you have gained. I just hope you don't become disappointed for still not being enough to defeat your rival."

Riser's Mansion in Kuoh

Kuroka, Erza, and Shizuku were gathered in the living room, watching the Rating Game with great interest. The three of them were completely engrossed in the battle unfolding before them, admiring their master's skill and power.

"Riser-sama is really amazing today, isn't he, Nya?" Kuroka commented, her eyes fixed on the television screen as she watched Merlin defeat another opponent.

Erza, sitting beside her, nodded enthusiastically. "You're right! I wish I were there fighting too. And what about you, Shizuku?"

Shizuku, who was sitting further away, responded with her typical calmness. "I only obey Riser-sama. If he wants me to fight, I'll fight. If he wants me to take care of Kuroka, I'll take care of Kuroka."

Erza sighed in frustration, scratching her head in irritation.

"You have no battle hunger, and that's boring."

"You two are boring. The fun thing is to make lots of babies with Riser-sama, Nya," teased Kuroka, with a mischievous smile.

Erza widened her eyes, surprised by Kuroka's direct response. "Kuroka! Don't be so... straightforward!"

Shizuku simply watched the interaction between her companions with an impassive expression, unaffected by Kuroka's jokes.

Riser's Private Mansion in the Underworld

Romina was in a guest room accompanied by Ravel and Asia. The three of them were sitting in front of a holographic projection showing Riser fighting Tannin.

Ravel was especially tense, her hands clenched into fists as she watched her brother fight. She deeply admired Riser, but she was also concerned for his safety. However, seeing Riser's flawless performance in battle, she couldn't help but feel impressed.

"My brother is incredible," commented Ravel, her voice overflowing with pride. "He has always been talented, but seeing him in action like this is breathtaking."

Asia, beside her, nodded enthusiastically. "True! Riser-sama is truly amazing."

As the two exchanged impressions about Riser's performance, Romina watched silently, a gentle smile playing on her lips. She was a loving mother, and seeing her son in action, showcasing all his talent and skill, filled her heart with joy.

But inside, Romina was battling her own fears and concerns. She feared that the animosity between Riser and Victorius, her husband, could not be overcome, and that it would lead to the collapse of the family she had fought so hard to keep together.

Furthermore, there was concern about what Victorius might do to her, especially because she did not help him kidnap Asia. She knew she had entered a dangerous situation by defying her husband, and now she feared the possible consequences.

She also feared that Victorius's aggressive behavior could turn against her again, as it had in the past. Only her eldest son, Ruval, was aware of the abuse she had suffered at the hands of her husband, and this made her even more worried about her family's future.

As Romina tried to maintain a calm and serene appearance for her daughter, inside she was struggling with her own demons, praying that Riser and Victorius could find a way to understand each other before it was too late.

________

In the living room of Riser's mansion, Sona, Tsubaki, and Yoruichi were gathered.

"Tannin seems scared of that sword," observed Tsubaki, adjusting her glasses as she closely followed the battle.

"It's normal, after all, it's Ascalon and it was made to kill dragons," replied Sona proudly, admiring Riser's ability to wield the legendary sword.

"I see. But what about that gauntlet on Riser's right hand? What is that?"

Sona pondered for a moment before answering Tsubaki.

"It must be something made to hold the sword, since Devils can't hold it without feeling the effects of the holy aura."

Yoruichi, who was listening to the conversation in silence, knew exactly what the gauntlet was, but chose not to reveal her knowledge. As an invocation of Riser's, she understood the importance of respecting her master's secrets and choices, even if it meant keeping crucial information secret from Sona, who was her current King.

Yoruichi decided to steer the conversation to a broader aspect. "Riser-sama's combat ability is truly impressive. The top 10 are being completely defeated."

Sona and Tsubaki agreed with a nod, sharing the same feeling of admiration for Riser's ability to overcome his opponents with such ease.

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