Reborn of The Mercenary: [Toji Fushiguro x Highschool DxD]

Chapter 13: Normal Day

Morning, Kuoh Academy

The sun shone brightly over Kuoh Academy as students hurried to their classes. Toji Fushiguro walked through the gates, blending into the sea of students despite his imposing presence. He had adjusted to school life remarkably well, considering the supernatural twists his life had taken recently.

Classes proceeded as usual. Toji found himself surprisingly engaged in his studies, although his mind often wandered to the strange new world he was now a part of. The other students noticed his calm demeanor and impressive focus, but none dared to approach him, sensing an underlying intensity.

Afternoon, Occult Research Club

After classes, Toji headed to the old school building where the Occult Research Club held their meetings. As he entered, he found Rias Gremory, Akeno Himejima, Koneko Toujou, and Yuuto Kiba already gathered.

"Hey, Toji," Rias greeted him with a warm smile. "How was your day?"

"Same as always," Toji replied, taking a seat. "Any news?"

"Not much, but we have some training planned for today. We need to be ready for anything," Rias said.

Before they began, Toji remembered something. "Rias, do you know anyone named Azazel?"

Rias's eyes widened in surprise. "Azazel? How do you know that name?"

Toji's expression hardened. "I met him. Or at least, someone who claimed to be him. Weird blonde and black hair, funny golden eyes, and he attacked me saying that he wants to test me."

Rias looked concerned. "Azazel is the leader of the Fallen Angels. He's extremely powerful and very dangerous. What exactly happened?"

Toji recounted his encounter with the mysterious man. "He appeared out of nowhere, said he knew I'm newly born devil with a sacred gear, he said that he is interested in me, and i have great potential. He called himself Azazel before disappearing."

Rias took a deep breath. "This is serious. If Azazel is involved, we need to be very careful. He's known for his cunning and strength. We need to report this to my brother as soon as possible."

Toji nodded. "I'll be ready for whatever comes next."

The group spent the next few hours honing their skills. Toji practiced with his katana, Akeno focused on her lightning magic, Kiba worked on his sword techniques, and Koneko demonstrated her impressive strength. Rias watched over them, providing guidance and encouragement.

Evening, Occult Research Club

As the training session ended, the atmosphere grew more relaxed. The group gathered around, chatting and bonding. Toji, who had initially been reserved, found himself opening up more to his new comrades.

"Toji, you're improving fast," Kiba commented, sheathing his sword. "You've got some serious skills."

Toji shrugged. "Just doing what I can. You guys aren't so bad yourselves."

The camaraderie was interrupted by a sudden knock on the door. Rias's expression turned serious as she called, "Come in."

The door opened to reveal Grayfia Lucifuge, Rias's maid and the Queen of Sirzechs Lucifer.

"Grayfia, what brings you here?" Rias asked, her tone respectful.

Grayfia stepped inside, her presence commanding attention. "I have important news. Rias, your engagement to Riser Phenex has been confirmed. The wedding is scheduled, and Riser will be visiting soon to discuss the details."

The room fell silent. Rias's face tightened with a mix of frustration and resignation.

"Engagement? Wedding?" Toji repeated, looking at Rias. "What's going on?"

Rias sighed. "It's a political arrangement. My family and the Phenex family agreed on this engagement to strengthen our ties. I have no choice in the matter."

Before anyone could respond, the door burst open again, and in walked Riser Phenex, flanked by his entourage. His confident smirk and arrogant demeanor immediately set Toji on edge.

"Rias, my beautiful fiancée," Riser announced, striding towards her. "I've come to discuss our future together."

Rias's expression darkened. "Riser, this isn't the time."

Riser ignored her, his gaze sweeping over the others. "And who are these? Your... servants?"

Toji clenched his fists, feeling an unexpected surge of anger. "We're her friends and comrades," he growled. "Show some respect."

Riser chuckled, clearly amused. "Oh, really? And who are you, to speak to me like that?"

Toji's patience snapped. He stepped forward, his eyes blazing with fury. "I don't know why, but you piss me off." In his mind Toji tought: "I didn't know I could be this mad, she is... she is the same as me, her family take away her freedom, they aren't better than this bastard Zennin clan!"

Before anyone could react, Toji's fist connected with Riser's face, sending the Phenex heir staggering back. The room went silent, everyone too shocked to move.

Riser wiped a trickle of blood from his lip, a malicious grin spreading across his face. "Haha a lucky shot. But this changes nothing. If you want to settle this, we can do it properly. A Rating Game."

Rias stepped between them, her voice cold. "Riser, enough. We'll have the Rating Game!"

Riser shrugged, still smirking. "Very well, my dear fiancée. But remember, the Rating Game will decide everything."

With that, he turned and left, his entourage following closely. The tension in the room lingered, but Rias turned to her peerage, her resolve clear.

"We'll prepare for the Rating Game," she said. "And we'll win."

Toji nodded, the fire in his eyes undimmed. "Count me in."

The battle lines were drawn, and the fight for Rias's future had begun.