DxD: Ascension - Redux

Chapter 25: Training for War

BGM: Persona 5 - Phantom

The Occult Research Club gathered in the courtyard behind Gremory Manor, where Azazel was waiting along with Tannin, the dragon they'd met the day before.
"Alright, kids," Azazel began. "Let's cut to the chase. I've got a 20-day regimen to whip all of you into shape. Figuratively, of course. Mostly."
"We seriously have to train for that long?" Issei complained.
"That's right, and you're going to head out first. Tannin will be your personal trainer for your training period, so play nice, you two."
"A-are you serious?!"
"That's right, kiddo," Tannin confirmed. "I've had my fair share of students, but this'll be my first Red Dragon Emperor. We'll be working on pulling out that Balance Breaker of yours. I've heard great things. And if you make it out alive, you'll get an extra reward at the end."
"Why is not dying always an optional bonus?" Issei muttered as he was picked up by Tannin's massive claw.
"Get it together, Issei!" Rias commanded.
"Y-yes, ma'am! Man, she's a real dominatrix when it comes to training. If only she was doing the whipping, not a huge dragon..."
Tannin chuckled and flew off, carrying Issei with him into the distance.
"He's toast," Zach commented.
"Blackened toast," Kiba agreed.

A dark library somewhere...

Rias sat alone at a desk in the library, poring over a few books at once. Azazel's advice rang clear in her head:
Question: Are you the brains of your team, or the brawn? Answer: a good King is both and neither because they know when to fight and when to lead. Realizing the difference comes from learning to use your pieces to their greatest potential.

High above the clouds... (BGM: Persona 5 - Desire)

Akeno stood on a rock that pierced the clouds, facing a man in dark green armor with a matching cloak. "Why are you here?" she demanded.
"It's been quite a while, Akeno," he responded calmly.
"I'd rather you not say my name."
You are a fallen angel, Akeno recalled Azazel saying. It's long since time for you to come to terms with that. Once you claim dominance over your heritage, you will finally be able to create true holy lightning.
"And you didn't answer my question."
Baraqiel sighed. "I could not refuse an order from the Governor-General. He asked me to train my daughter, so here I am."
"Do you know why I wear these clothes?" Akeno's uniform morphed into her Shinto priestess robes as her gaze hardened. "It's my way of showing the world that I renounce everything you represent. Because you, Baraqiel, are no father of mine."

A forest near the mansion...

Kiba stood knee-deep in a pond, the Holy Devil Sword in his hands.
Focus on honing your Balance Breaker, Azazel had advised. Once you have it out, keep it out as long as possible.
Kiba backflipped out of the pond and onto its shore, turning to see someone standing just a few feet away.
I have assigned you a teacher to further your swordsmanship. Heed their advice.
Kiba bowed with a smile. "Thank you for agreeing to train me."

Another part of the forest...

Xenovia summoned Durandal from its seal. As soon as she gripped the blade, she could feel it shaking in her hands.
That sacred blade of yours is fickle with whom it chooses as its wielder. Taming it is a matter of will. If you're not strong enough, it could turn on you.
With a defiant yell, Xenovia brought the blade down on a tree, slicing it in half vertically. "I will master you, Durandal...!"

In the town...

Gasper hid in a dark alley, watching people pass by.
I'd call you a gentle giant if you weren't so small and jittery. Get a grip. You think you lack talent, but in reality, it's your timid nature that's holding you back. Simple fix, though. Go out where people can see you. That's the first step.
"I'd rather die than take this first step..."