DXD: The Awakening Of Phenex

Riser's Mansion in the Underworld - Living Room

Riser was sitting in an armchair near the fireplace, his expression thoughtful as he watched the dancing flames. Sona was next to him, her expression serious and focused. Yubelluna was standing near the entrance to the room, always ready to attend to Riser's needs. Tsubaki was sitting on one of the sofas, maintaining an upright posture and closely observing the interaction between those present.

Yubelluna, who was checking her magical communications, frowned upon receiving a new message. She walked over to Riser and Sona, her expression serious and worried.

"Riser-sama, Sona-sama, I just received an urgent message," Yubelluna began, her voice firm. "The disappearance of Falbium Asmodeus has become public. The news is spreading rapidly throughout the underworld."

Riser and Sona exchanged looks, both understanding the gravity of the situation.

Tsubaki stood up, her expression attentive. "This will cause a great turmoil among the factions," she said.

"It seems the Old Satan faction is taking responsibility for the disappearance of Asmodeus-sama. They are using this to sow chaos and increase their power."

Sona, thoughtful, looked at Riser. 'These events are out of control. The Old Satan faction is causing more trouble than we imagined. If they continue to act this way, they could destabilize the entire underworld.'

Riser, while listening to Yubelluna and Tsubaki, couldn't help but think about the convenience of the situation. 'This is perfect. The Old Satan faction is taking responsibility for something I made happen. No one knows about my involvement, and this diverts attention from me.'

Riser looked at Yubelluna and Tsubaki with a calculated expression of surprise. "The Old Satan faction? This is unexpected. But thinking about it, it makes sense. Who else would have the audacity to do something like this?"

Sona, catching Riser's logic, agreed. "Yes, it makes sense. They have always been unpredictable and willing to take drastic measures to achieve their goals."

Suddenly, a magic circle appeared on the floor of the room, glowing intensely. In an instant, Serafall materialized in the center, her appearance tired and worn.

She looked at everyone with an exhausted expression. "Riser-chan, Sona-chan, the situation is out of control. We need to talk."

Riser and Sona quickly stood up, worried about Serafall's appearance. "What happened, Onee-sama?" Sona asked, her voice full of concern.

"I just left a stressful meeting," Serafall began, her voice laden with fatigue. "Things are really out of control."

Riser, still standing next to Sona, crossed his arms and looked at Serafall with a serious expression. "We just found out that the news of Falbium's disappearance leaked," he said. "And it seems the Old Satan faction is involved."

Serafall nodded, frowning. "I knew the issue would leak, but I didn't expect it to be so fast. At least now we know who is involved."

Sona squeezed Serafall's hand, trying to offer comfort. "What else was discussed at the meeting?"

Serafall looked at Sona and Riser, hesitating for a moment before answering. "A new Maou was chosen."

Riser felt a brief moment of internal euphoria, believing that finally his plan was coming to fruition. 'Finally, all my effort is paying off,' he thought, maintaining a neutral expression.

"Diehauser Belial was chosen as the new Maou," announced Serafall, her voice firm but sad.

'My plan failed. That damn Diehauser... Everything was going so well,' thought Riser, while keeping his face neutral. Outwardly, he showed no sign of his disappointment, maintaining a façade of calm and acceptance.

"Well, Diehauser is first in the Rating Game rankings. It's not surprising that he was chosen," said Riser casually, trying to hide his disappointment.

Sigh.

Serafall huffed, crossing her arms with an expression of disdain. "Diehauser? Big deal. He may be number one in the Rating Game, but that doesn't mean he's the best for the Maou position."

She took a step forward, her frustration evident in every movement. "Sirzechs proposed Diehauser, and he got the majority of the votes. I wanted it to be you, Riser. I believed you would bring the necessary change. But I was outvoted."

'Damn Sirzechs,' thought Riser, his eyes narrowing slightly while controlling his expression to not reveal his frustration. 'Always interfering with my plans.'

Riser kept his calm and smiled at Serafall. "Thank you for thinking of me, Serafall. It means a lot to know you believe in my potential."

"Riser, you don't need to thank me," said Serafall, waving her hand as if dismissing any formality. "I really believe in your potential to bring change."

"And there's something more concerning that came up during the meeting. Sirzechs mentioned the possibility of a war in the underworld."

Sona's eyes widened, visibly alarmed. "Is that really possible?"

"Considering the situation, there must be pure-blood Devils who are not satisfied with the directions of the underworld. This dissatisfaction can easily be manipulated to incite a war," said Riser.

Serafall nodded, trying to calm her sister. "It's just a possibility, Sona. There are no concrete signs yet that it will happen. We need to be prepared, but we don't need to panic."

Riser, noticing Sona's growing concern and the tension in the air, decided to intervene to reassure everyone. He stood up from the armchair and walked over to Sona, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"Don't worry, Sona," said Riser, his voice firm and full of confidence. "I'm here to ensure nothing bad happens. With me by your side, you can stay calm."

Sona looked at Riser, feeling a little more at ease. His presence always made her feel safe. "Thank you, Riser. I know I can count on you."

Serafall watched the interaction between the two, a slight smile appearing on her lips as she saw the trust Sona placed in Riser. However, she couldn't ignore the fear of a looming war in her mind.

"Riser, you are young and have a lot of potential, but the terror of a war is something that even the most powerful cannot easily control. A war in the underworld would bring destruction and suffering to everyone."

Riser sighed, turning his gaze to Serafall. "Serafall, I know you are older and have seen many wars. Your experience is valuable to all of us."

Serafall was indignant, widening her eyes and placing her hands on her hips. "Older? Older?!"

THUD!

Serafall stomped her foot on the floor, her expression of indignation clear. "I'm not older! I'm experienced!"

Sona, Tsubaki, and Yubelluna couldn't hold back their laughter at Serafall's reaction.

"Hehehe!"

Sona laughed, her expression lighter.

Tsubaki tried to maintain her composure, but couldn't avoid a playful smile. Yubelluna, always reserved, let out a soft chuckle.

"This isn't funny! I'm serious!" Serafall crossed her arms, still irritated.

Riser raised his hands in a gesture of surrender, smiling to calm the situation.

"Sorry, Serafall. I didn't mean to offend. I know your experience is invaluable, and I appreciate you sharing your concern."

Serafall huffed, but her expression softened a bit. "It's okay, Riser. Just don't call me old again."

Riser nodded, maintaining his smile. "I promise. Now, let's focus on ensuring everyone's safety and avoiding this war."

Serafall took a deep breath, trying to maintain her composure after the burst of anger. "Well, I can't keep talking. I have other things to do and another meeting in 40 minutes."

Riser nodded, understanding. "Of course, Serafall. We appreciate you informing us and sharing your concerns."

Serafall smiled slightly, although the fatigue was still evident in her eyes. She looked at Sona, Riser, and the others present. "I'll be going. Take care, and keep informed about any developments."

"Leave it to me, Onee-sama," replied Sona, her voice full of affection.

Serafall made a gesture with her hand, tracing a magic circle in the air. The circle glowed intensely, and in an instant, she teleported, leaving the room in a flash of light.

---

After Serafall's departure, the room was silent for a few moments. Sona turned to Riser, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Riser, are you upset about not being chosen as the new Maou?"

Riser blinked, surprised by Sona's perception. "You noticed?"

Sona smiled softly, approaching Riser and holding his hand. "I'm your wife and a very intelligent Devil. It was obvious I would notice."

Riser gave a mischievous smile, pulling Sona a little closer. "To ease the pain of not being the new Maou, I think I want something from you... in the bedroom."

Sona blushed immediately, but before she could respond, Riser moved away, quickly climbing the stairs. "Riser!" she exclaimed, running after him.

Yubelluna and Tsubaki stared at each other for a moment, the tension in the air evident.

Tsubaki blushed deeply, averting her gaze, while Yubelluna, always calm, smiled slightly, maintaining her serene posture.

"Always so focused," Yubelluna commented softly, breaking the silence.

Tsubaki, still red, managed to muster a shy smile. "Yes, it's true."

Yubelluna walked over to Tsubaki, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Let's keep watch. The situation is unstable, and we need to be prepared for anything."

Tsubaki nodded, feeling a bit calmer with Yubelluna's comforting touch. "Yes, you are right."

The two then returned to their positions, the atmosphere in the room calming as they prepared to face the challenges ahead.

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