Artificial Territory – Replica of Kuoh Academy
The replica of the Academy was perfect.
Even the sky carried that nostalgic shade of blue that preceded an ordinary afternoon…
But nothing there was ordinary. Tension hung like mist over the illusory field.
Riser sat in the replica of the student council room. He watched the light filtering through the curtain—the same angle, the same furniture… all designed to favor Rias's memories.
'Familiar setting. Predictable strategy.'
But he remained unshaken.
(...)
Observation Room – Underworld
The Phenex, Gremory, and Sitri families sat on floating thrones, with a full view of the field. Two Maous were present.
Sirzechs crossed his legs, gazing at the magical projection.
"Serafall, I didn't expect you here."
"My sister's involved in this… and, let's be honest, Riser intrigues me. Who chooses to fight alone these days?"
Sirzechs smiled elegantly.
"A mistake, if you ask me. Rias has Issei—the Red Dragon Emperor. That changes everything."
"Ha! If he loses… maybe it'll be easier to convince him to accept my sister as a bride."
"You really want that?"
Serafall crossed her arms.
"If he wins… maybe he deserves it."
(...)
Student Council Room – Riser's POV
Yubelluna stood by the window, awaiting instructions.
"As soon as the video is posted on DevilNet, notify me immediately."
"Yes, Riser-sama."
He looked at Shizuku, then at Erza, who stood motionless like a steel statue.
"If I decide to withdraw… you all withdraw too. No interference outside my command."
"Understood."
The three stepped back silently.
(...)
Riser opened the mental interface.
[Villain System]
Luck Points: 900
'I need to reserve 300 to ensure the video's anonymous posting. But I can't enter the Game without tempting fate.'
"Try a golden ticket."
[Golden Ticket: No reward.]
'Tch… let's see what a copper brings.'
[Copper Ticket: No reward.]
'Damn it…'
"Silver ticket."
[Congratulations. New ability acquired: Haoshoku Haki (Conqueror's Haki).]
Riser smiled.
"The game is mine again."
[Villain System – Updated]
Luck Points: 300
New Ability:
Haoshoku Haki (Conqueror's Haki)
(...)
Room – Shortly After
Grayfia's voice rang through a floating crystal.
"Competitors of the Rating Game. In 5 minutes, the battle will begin."
Riser stood calmly. His jacket perfectly tailored. His tie impeccable.
"Wait here."
"Yes, Riser-sama."
(...)
Start of the Rating Game
The field activated. A magical aura enveloped the entire area.
Riser left the main building. He walked through the gardens with controlled steps.
Nothing in sight.
'Hiding pieces… a common tactic.'
He changed direction.
He headed toward the occult research building.
On the rooftop, he saw Rias and Akeno. On the ground, Issei, Koneko, and Yuuto awaited him in formation.
Riser stopped in the center of the open field.
The wind blew.
A smile returned to his lips.
"Let the games begin."
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