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

Chapter 20: Aftermath and the Underworld

Morning, Occult Research Club

The dust had finally settled after the intense battle against Riser Phenex. Toji Fushiguro's cunning and power had secured a hard-fought victory for Rias Gremory and her peerage. The team was now back at the Occult Research Club, tending to their wounds and reflecting on the fight.

Rias looked around at her team, her expression a mix of relief and pride. "We did it," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "Thank you, everyone."

Akeno smiled warmly, tending to Koneko's injuries. "It was a team effort, Rias."

Toji, who had sustained minor injuries, leaned against a wall, his katana resting by his side. He was deep in thought, replaying the battle in his mind. Rias approached him, her eyes softening.

"Toji, you were incredible out there. We couldn't have done it without you," she said.

Toji shrugged, a faint smile on his lips. "Just doing my part. But it was a close call."

Rias nodded, her expression growing serious. "We have more to discuss. My brother and parents want to meet with us in the Underworld. They were... impressed by our victory."

Afternoon, Underworld

The portal to the Underworld shimmered before them, an ethereal gateway to a realm most of them had only heard about. Rias led her peerage through, with Toji, Kiba, Akeno, and Koneko following closely.

They emerged into a grand hall, its architecture both ancient and majestic, reflecting the power and history of the Gremory family. At the far end of the hall stood Sirzechs Lucifer, Rias's older brother, flanked by their parents, Lord and Lady Gremory.

Rias approached her family, bowing respectfully. "Brother, Father, Mother."

Sirzechs smiled warmly, stepping forward to embrace his sister. "Rias, you were magnificent. I knew you could do it."

Lord Gremory, a tall and imposing figure, nodded approvingly. "You have proven yourself, Rias. We are very proud."

Lady Gremory, elegant and regal, gazed at her daughter with pride. "You have exceeded our expectations, my dear."

Rias blushed slightly, grateful for her family's praise. She turned to introduce her peerage. "This is my team. Akeno, Koneko, Kiba... and Toji."

Sirzechs's eyes focused on Toji, a curious glint in his gaze. "Toji Fushiguro. I've heard much about you. Your skills are extraordinary."

Toji met Sirzechs's gaze steadily. "Thank you, Lord Lucifer. It's an honor to meet you."

Lord Gremory studied Toji with interest. "You fought well against Riser. Your strategies were... unconventional, but effective."

Toji nodded, his expression neutral. "I use what works."

The conversation continued, with Rias and her family discussing the Rating Game in detail. Toji remained mostly silent, observing the dynamics between Rias and her family. He noticed how deeply they cared for her, their pride and love evident in every word. "Maybe I was wrong about them, " he thought. "Maybe they aren't as bad as the Zenin clan."

As the meeting progressed, a servant entered the hall, announcing that lunch was prepared. They moved to a grand dining room, where an elaborate feast awaited them. The atmosphere was more relaxed, with laughter and stories filling the air.

Evening, Gremory Estate

After the meal, Sirzechs took Rias and Toji aside, wanting to speak to them privately. They followed him to a secluded courtyard, the night sky above them dotted with stars.

"Rias, you have shown great leadership," Sirzechs began, his tone serious. "And Toji, your presence has clearly strengthened the team."

Toji inclined his head. "I'm just doing what I can."

Sirzechs looked at Rias, his expression thoughtful. "The battle against Riser was a test, but there are greater challenges ahead. You must continue to grow, both as a leader and as a team."

Rias nodded, her resolve clear. "We will, brother. We'll be ready."

Sirzechs then turned to Toji. "Toji, your tactics and strength were impressive. But remember, there is always more to learn. The Underworld is vast, and its dangers are many."

Toji's eyes glinted with determination. "I won't forget that."

With that, Sirzechs left them, the weight of his words lingering in the air. Rias and Toji stood in the courtyard, the cool night breeze rustling their hair.

"Thank you, Toji," Rias said softly. "For everything."

Toji shrugged, a rare, genuine smile appearing on his face. "We're a team, Rias. We look out for each other."

Rias stepped closer to Toji, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "You really are something special, Toji."

Before he could respond, Rias leaned in and kissed him gently on the cheek. Toji's eyes widened, a blush spreading across his cheeks. In his mind: "Dammit! Why i am blushing like a teenager..."

Rias smiled at his reaction. "Goodnight, Toji."

Toji, still flustered, managed to nod. "Goodnight, Rias."

As they parted ways, Toji couldn't help but feel a warmth in his chest. The Underworld had revealed more to him than he had expected, and with Rias and her family, he felt a sense of belonging he hadn't known in a long time.