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

Chapter 15: The Rules of the Game

Morning, Occult Research Club

The next morning, the Occult Research Club room was buzzing with anticipation. Grayfia Lucifuge stood at the front, ready to explain the rules of the Rating Game in detail. Everyone was focused, understanding the importance of this briefing.

Grayfia began, her voice calm and authoritative. "The Rating Game is a formalized battle between two Devil households. Each side has a King, and the objective is to defeat the opposing King. The game ends when one King is defeated or surrenders."

She continued, "Each household has pieces similar to a chess set: Queen, Rook, Knight, Bishop, and Pawn. Each piece has unique abilities and strengths. Your strategy must utilize these roles effectively."

Rias nodded, adding, "Toji, as a Pawn, you have the ability to promote to any piece when you reach the enemy's base, just like in chess. This can be a game-changer if used correctly."

Toji absorbed the information, his mind racing with possibilities. "Got it. I'll make sure to use that to our advantage."

Kiba Yuuto, the Knight, spoke up. "Our strategy should focus on teamwork and covering each other's weaknesses. Toji, with your strength and versatility, you'll be a key player in our plan."

Grayfia concluded, "The Rating Game against Riser Phenex will take place in a replica of Kuoh Academy. Be prepared for anything."

Afternoon, Training Camp

The group returned to the training camp, where they continued their rigorous preparation. Toji led combat drills, emphasizing coordination and adaptability. Akeno practiced her magic control under physical strain, while Koneko focused on her strength and agility.

Rias supervised, providing guidance and adjusting their strategy based on their progress. "Remember, Riser's team will be formidable. They have the advantage of experience, but we have the advantage of determination and teamwork."

One evening, as the group gathered around a campfire, Toji approached Rias. "Rias, I have a plan."

Rias looked at him, intrigued. "What's on your mind, Toji?"

Toji leaned in and began to outline his idea in a low voice. The rest of the team watched them closely, sensing the significance of the moment but unable to hear the details of Toji's plan. Rias listened intently, occasionally nodding as she considered his proposal.

After a few minutes, Rias smiled. "It's risky, but it could work. We'll need to refine it and make sure everyone knows their part."

The team continued to discuss and refine their plan late into the night, their bonds growing stronger with each passing day.

Day of the Rating Game

The day of the Rating Game arrived, and the team gathered in the Occult Research Club room. Grayfia appeared, ready to transport them to the battlefield.

"Is everyone ready?" Rias asked, her gaze sweeping over her peerage.

A chorus of affirmations followed, and Grayfia opened a magical portal. The team stepped through, emerging in a vast arena designed for the Rating Game. The arena was a replica of Kuoh Academy, complete with various obstacles and hiding places.

Riser Phenex and his team stood on the opposite side, smirking confidently. "Ready to lose, Rias?" Riser taunted.

Rias's eyes blazed with determination. "We won't lose. Not today."

Grayfia's voice echoed through the arena. "The Rating Game between Rias Gremory and Riser Phenex will now begin!"

With that, the battle commenced. Toji felt a surge of adrenaline as he took his position, his senses heightened. This was it-the moment they had trained for. The future of Rias and her peerage depended on their performance in this battle.

"Let's go, team!" Rias shouted, and they charged into the fray, ready to face challenges which lay ahead.