Aside from Rias, Sona, and their peerage, many other spectators from the Underworld had also arrived for this match.
In the stands, devils from both the Gremory and Phoenix families sat in two separate sections. Above them, however, were two very special seats, each occupied by one of the Underworld's highest authorities:
Lucifer and Leviathan.
The former was once Sirzechs Gremory, eldest son of the Gremory family. After the civil war, owing to his exceptional power and leadership, he replaced the old Lucifer.
The latter was Serafall, Sona Sitri's older sister, who had also once been the eldest daughter of the Sitri family. Like Sirzechs, she wore the luxurious attire of a Maou and appeared quite young—her hair even styled into conspicuous twin-tails.
Originally, the Underworld had hoped Leviathan would adopt a more dignified look (like long black hair), but Serafall—"corrupted" by Japanese anime and especially fond of cosplaying magical girls—insisted on twin-tails. Since she was a Maou, no one dared say otherwise.
Both of their powers far surpassed those of the old Maou. Their bearing exuded unquestionable majesty; the tempering of years gave their gazes a deep, commanding quality. Every word and action radiated a leader's aura.
"Serafall, who do you think has the greater odds of winning this match?"
Sirzechs asked.
"Judging by appearances, definitely that Phoenix boy,"
Serafall replied, licking her lips.
"I'm not exactly fond of him, but I can't deny his strength. Even my Sona said if she fought him in a Rating Game, her chances would be forty–sixty at best."
"That's true. The Phoenix bloodline is quite special. Unless you've got a counter for it, it's really tough to beat them,"
Sirzechs nodded.
Back during the civil war, the reformist faction had received the Phoenix family's help, obtaining a large supply of "Phoenix Tears" capable of healing injuries instantly—gradually tipping the scales in their favor. Sirzechs respected the Phoenix family's contribution but also couldn't overlook Rias's feelings. Now that Hikaru had unexpectedly appeared, Sirzechs saw a chance for a compromise: let them clash directly. Whichever side won, no one would question the outcome.
"So, what about you, Sirzechs?"
Serafall asked.
"This was your idea."
"Honestly, my assessment isn't much different from yours."
Even though Sirzechs knew Hikaru had recently obtained the Red Dragon Emperor's Longinus, it had only been a few days. No matter how prodigious he might be, at best he would have only grasped the Sacred Gear's basic capabilities by now. The Red Dragon Emperor—as one of the Two Heavenly Dragons—was undeniably powerful. Ancient records said that after the three factions ceased hostilities, they spent a tremendous amount of effort capturing the Red Dragon Emperor and White Dragon Emperor. Turned into Sacred Gears since then, the Red Dragon Emperor had had many hosts, most of whom left a mark on history—but that only came after years of developing and awakening the Sacred Gear.
So, after just a few days? Even Sirzechs—who favored Rias—felt it was impossible for Hikaru to unleash the Gear's full might. At best, he might use it for support or produce an unexpected effect in battle. Still, Sirzechs believed Hikaru had potential and hoped he'd win, achieving a resolution that satisfied both sides.
"Ooh, look, Sirzechs—both sides are entering!"
Serafall's voice suddenly became excited, like a live spectator at a sporting event. Everyone could see every detail of the battlefield through a massive magic screen.
Compared to Hikaru, who arrived alone, Riser's entrance was extremely flashy—even striking a pose for his teleportation. Aware that all eyes were on him, he first put on an over-the-top show, then followed the prearranged tactics, dispatching the servants with various devil pieces to set ambushes around the field. The strategy adhered to typical Rating Game norms: if the opponent wanted to claim victory, they'd have to defeat each piece one by one, eventually facing him in the Student Council office.
Seeing Riser's smooth planning, the Phoenix elders quietly nodded. They'd advised him beforehand, and he'd listened. It demonstrated his abilities while simultaneously showing deference to the two Maou in attendance. Even some from the Gremory family who disliked the idea of Rias marrying Riser had to concede that Rias's odds looked grim.
"Heh heh, the match is finally starting! You Phoenix playboy—give that brat a proper lesson!"
Amid the Phoenix family's shock and Sirzechs's puzzled expression, Serafall raised her fist and shouted:
"How dare he try to win over my sweet Sona? Absolutely unforgivable!"
~~~
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