The Phenex estate's private training ground glowed with heat and magic.
A circle of scorched earth marked the arena where flames danced wildly, crackling like thunder. At its center stood Riser Phenex, his body wreathed in living flame his golden eyes alight with controlled power, not madness.
Opposite him stood Thalia, crackling with lightning, her arms raised in challenge. Beside her was Artoria, poised in a traditional knight's stance, Her blade glowing with a faint golden aura.
"Come," Riser called, his voice calm but commanding. "Show me your growth."
Thalia grinned fiercely. "I was hoping you'd say that."
With a crack of thunder, she launched herself forward, lightning trailing behind her. Artoria followed immediately, swift and graceful like a blade through the wind.
Riser moved like flowing fire evasive, elegant, and overwhelming. Thalia's bolt struck air as Riser danced around it, closing the distance and forcing her to defend. His flaming fist met her electrified palms with a shockwave that sent sparks in every direction.
Artoria came from the side, sword flashing, aiming for his flank. Riser spun in a corkscrew motion, flames igniting fully around him like a miniature sun.
"Solar Bloom."
A fiery burst exploded from his core, forcing both girls back singeing both of there clothes. The air warped with heat. He was in full Johnny Storm mode now, body glowing, hair billowing like fire, his aura radiant.
Thalia landed and shook her hands, laughing. "Okay, okay you're ridiculous."
Artoria, panting but smiling, lowered her sword. "His control his raw power it's unlike anything I've seen, almost like the sun is directly infront of me."
Riser hovered above them, fire wings flared out. "You're both growing fast, but this is the standard I expect from my peerage. Gods and legends alike, bound by purpose."
The spar ended with mutual grins and mutual exhaustion.
Later that evening, word of Riser's new additions too his peerage began to spread among the noble families. This news had weight something which hasn't been heard of in a long time maybe not ever.
A demigoddess.
A Pendragon.
And both in the service of the youngest Phenex son.
At a gathering in the Sitri estate, whispers were exchanged.
"He's forming a force far beyond his station"
"To have won the loyalty of those two has anyone ever heard of a devil having a demigod in their peerage it's unheard of"
"Is he preparing to challenge the balance already?"
"He could rival Lord Sirzechs someday."
Even Lord Gremory raised an eyebrow when he heard the news . "It seems Rias may be marrying a far more influential devil than we anticipated. Silly girl most gain more power if she want to stay by Riser side."
The next day, at the Phenex estate, a familiar presence arrived.
"Big Brother! She's here!" Ravel called, peeking out from behind the door.
Riser stepped out, golden eyes calm. A crimson magic circle finished forming, and stepping out was Rias Gremory, dressed elegantly in casual attire, her long red hair cascading behind her.
She glanced at Riser, arms crossed, and gave a little huff with a blush seeing how handsome he looks today. "I figured you'd be too busy playing king to see me."
Riser smiled politely. "I'm honored you came, Rias. Would you like a something to eat or drink?"
"I didn't come here for that mostly just to see you," she muttered then looked away, slightly red. "But yes."
After eating something together they walked through the estate, Rias took in the grandeur, though she tried to hide her awe even after touring this place it amazing how beautiful his home is. Eventually, they arrived at the inner courtyard where Thalia was napping on a stone bench, and Artoria was quietly cleaning her blade under a flowering tree.
Rias blinked. "Are those your new peerage members?"
Riser nodded. "Thalia. A daughter of Zeus. And Artoria Pendragon."
Rias' eyes widened. "A what and what?"
Thalia stretched and waved lazily. "Hey, crimson princess."
Artoria bowed her head respectfully. "Lady Rias."
Rias looked between them, unsure of what emotion to wear. "You weren't kidding when you said you'd build something legendary"
Riser gave a faint smile. "Do you like them?"
Rias glanced at him, a small pang of something bitter inside her, but mostly happy Riser is building something amazing. "They're amazing. It's no wonder the other noble families are panicking."
"They're not panicking," Riser said gently. "They're simply realizing I wasn't born to sit quietly."
Rias pouted. "Tch. Bragging again."
He chuckled. "Only when you're around."
Rias flushed a little and turned away. "Anyway I came because I wanted to see what you've been up to. And"
"And?" Riser asked.
She looked back at him. "And I want to ask, when I turn sixteen can I come to Kuoh too?" Only if you really want me there though of course with a blush on her face that matches here hair
Riser was quiet for a moment. "If you choose to. I'd welcome it."
Rias grumbled, A bigger blush crept up on her cheeks, one that was even spreading thoughout her body. "Idiot"
Ravel, watching from a distance, giggled. "Big sister is blushing!"
Rias turned crimson and whirled around. "RAVEL!"
But in that moment, surrounded by his growing peerage, his little sister's laughter, and the future Crimson Haired Ruin Princess huffing with embarrassment, Riser Phenex knew
The fire he carried wasn't just about power.
It was about people.
And he'd protect them all.