Disclaimer : I own nothing.

Chapter 7 : Thanksgiving, Panties and One Puuuuuuuuunnnnnnch.

- Shin –

A good night's sleep is always good for getting my mind off of all worries.

I have had a long night of peaceful sleep for the first time since I reincarnated as a gamer. My body doesn't feel fatigued and my mind can go on for almost forever so I actually don't need sleep. But sleeping is something I have always enjoyed.

After becoming a Gamer I have had all these situations dumped up on me one after another making me put aside sleep every night to barely normal levels to train and grind in IDs.

I wake up to a cup of tea that Sakuya has prepared. After she had come with me to the underworld, she has never allowed any other maid of the Bael Castle to serve me. It is her duty and she would not allow anyone else to take it from her.

Morgiana has been settling well. She has basic knowledge of this world so much so that she can be called as someone raised in the sticks and not in a different world. A great progress in just 5 days.

Meredith is having the most fun among all her peerage members. She had always dreamed of a royal life. Living in the castle of the Great King of devils is something the British Royal palace couldn't even hope to match. Her dreams have started being fulfilled for her already. Good for her, she is enjoying herself.

The last few days have been peaceful, at least inside the castle. Outside the news of this Rating Game has been spread all over the underworld. For the first time someone has dared to challenge the house of the Great King.

People were looking forward to the Game and more that all that to the drama that will happen at the end of it.

Apparently I have no hope of being able to remain low key for a while longer. Today, all other factions will know who Shin Kageyami is and a bit of what he is capable of. All I can do is think of a way to turn this into my favour.

The last few days, I have read up on all of the rules of rating game to ensure that I don't mess up on any important one and get disqualified. That will be a stupid way to lose. I also watched Riser's rating games records. I am not a fan, just wanted to see his way of fighting.

Needless to say I was heavily disappointed with it. It makes me really angry thinking that I had to prepare so much to face someone like this.

I am going to make him pay for making me to work so hard for something so useless. Today we will have roasted turkey for dinner.

As i go out to the main hall of the castle, I see Zekram Bael already seated at the table waiting for me.

"I hope you are prepared for today Shin. Losing is not an option. You can do whatever you want to them just make sure to win this Game." he says in a tone of finality. A lot is riding over this game and I am sure he has put a lot of stake on me to. He must have some backup for my loss as well but I'd rather not test his patience. Better for me if he remains happy with me at least until I become strong enough for it not to matter anymore.

"I am fully prepared for today's Game Sir. I will give you a good show. If I may know something in advance, it will help me plan some moves beforehand though." I say in a measured tone of voice.

"Ask what you have in your mind." he says slightly confused at my question.

"What should I do with Riser Phenex in today's fight? I can defeat him in more than one way. Do you have anything specific that you want me to do?" this is something I have been think over a lot. Should I just defeat him or more?

His lips curve up in a smile that honestly scared me a little. "Break him. He dared to challenge the House of Bael, he will face the consequences." Damn hardcore.

"Very well Sir, I will make sure you like the entire game. Just enjoy the show" I return his smile with my own which is just as feral as his.

Riser, you are so fucked.

After a light breakfast, I meet my peerage after which we are escorted to Agreas Stadium for our Rating Game by Zekram himself. Apparently Lord Phenex made so much noise about the Rating Game that the stadium in Agreas had to be booked. He even went forward and asked his second son to broadcast the Rating Game in the entire underworld. Of course this would mean that the match will be easily available to all other factions as well.

Outside the stadium in my side of the room, I was asked to get inside and get checked for any illegal use of items before the game. Standard procedure.

Finally when it was time we were teleported to a room, which looked like the living room of a small mansion to wait and plan for the rating game with 30 minutes in our hands.

- Azazel –

Azazel was watching Devil's Net for an exciting match. Rumors had it that Lord Phenex finally went senile and challenged Zekram Bael. Of course he wouldn't believe such rumors. In one such rumors he had proposed to Michael and when rejected had caused him great sadness leading him to fall. He is still looking for the one who started that rumor. The numerous failed artificial sacred gear models that he had invented in the past centuries will all be tested on them one by one until they wouldn't respond anymore. Azazel was many things but being into men was not one of them. These fujoshis are crazy, no matter where they were.

"What are you watching, Azazel?"asked his surrogate son Vali. Vali is a young boy, with silver hair and fair skin inherited from his ancestor Lucifer. Not only was he the Great-grandson of Lucifer, he was also the current White Dragon Emperor.

"There is an interesting rating game going on in the underworld right now. My sources say that many higher ups are involved in this game in the background but one of the participants is a complete mystery." He informs Vali as he watches the two teams take to their waiting rooms. He takes a sip of his drink while waiting.

Looking at the Mystery Boy's peerage he almost spit his drink on the screen of the TV in front of him. "The fuck, is that Grayfia Lucifuge?" A closer look however shows her to be a different person. They look so similar that Azazel would believe in without any proof that she was Grayfia's twin sister if she hadn't been younger.

This was turning out to be more interesting than he thought. The boy himself looks smart and well collected with a casual smile on his face. Black Hair, Green eyes. Overall really smart.

As he waits for the match to start he hears something that makes him throw up his drink all over again.

"We have 30 minutes to pass, so…who wants to watch a new anime?"

This is indeed going to be interesting.

- Ley Fay Pendrgon –

Ley Fay was watching the Devil's net for the latest trending videos to pass her time. There was not much they could do to pass time in a terrorist organization.

Skipping through the channels she saw a Rating Game going on. It was gathering viewers at very fast pace. Needless to say she was quite curious. Kuroka was sleeping on the couch beside her and the others were all out for their own work.

Feeling bored she opened the broadcast and froze for an instant. Was that Meredith? Why was she in a rating game? Did she become a devil? She didn't look sad, so she must not have been forced. Good then.

It was really a big surprise for her to see her friend like this. She had time to spare, the least she could do is cheer her friend from where she is.

Who was the boy with him though? Was that her b…b-boyfriend? Awa-wa-wa-wa Meredith was growing up so fast. She didn't even have a boy close to her except her brother. Bikou was an idiot and Vali only liked to fight. The boy with Meredith looked handsome though.

Ah…naughty Ley Fay don't think bad things. He is just her King.

She waited for them to begin and then she heard the boy saying something.

"We have 30 minutes to pass, so…who wants to watch a new anime?"

Was this really a Rating Game?

- Serefall –

This was turning out to be much more exciting than she had expected. Lord Phenex had no idea how big of a grave he dug for himself. Not that she would tell him. He was second only to Lord Bael in her list of least favourite lords in the underworld. She was waiting for when Shin crushed the arrogant Phenex boy and showed him his place. Immortal crap was so overrated. If they were really that special, why were there no Phenex Satans. Ruval was a bit decent but he was far from the level of Satans.

She had seen the look on Lord Phenex's face. He was really counting his chickens before they hatched. If he had looked at Zekram Bel for even an instant, he would have realised how badly he just screwed up. Calling the entirely underworld to watch his son getting beaten up. He even used his second son's TV station for the broadcast. That guy was not arrogant as Riser but he was annoying nonetheless.

He had declared that he would only marry her or no one else. Bad luck for him. She was already taken. The only one for her was her Sona-tan.

She did feel sorry for the Ravel girl though. She was quite talented but had to waste her talents in Riser's peerage. In most of his past matches all his strategies were made by her. Maybe she could recruit her when the Phenexs were finally crushed by Zekram.

Shin's peerage was something to watch though. She had almost slipped in her chair at the sight of the maid. She could swear that no other Lucifuges survived the Civil War except Grayfia. Even her brother's status was unknown. She didn't know if he survived the war or not. Not that she cared. Euclid was Rizvem's goffer and she hated people like him with all her heart.

This girl however was so similar to Grayfia that she could mistake her for a twin sister or maybe daughter if she hadn't known that the girl was a human reincarnated as a devil. Her skills remains unknown even now as does the skills of his pawn. She did find some information about the Bishop though. She was extremely interesting to say the least. He really was someone who could keep her entertained. She knew that the girl had a sacred gear and a very powerful one at that but the rest of the information was hidden by the British Royal Family. To get her out of their clutches and convince her to become a devil was really something to be proud of.

Still a major part of her skills was known. She was a prodigious mage who would make for a good bishop even without her sacred gear. Definitely a good catch. She used up his mutated Bishop though, so she is not someone to be underestimated.

Then there was the pawn. Any information about her was unknown. It was like she popped out of nowhere. She was even ignorant of the ways of the world from her investigations, like she lived in the less connected areas of the world. That would explain why she was so out of time. She was however extremely loyal.

Serafall had learned to judge people in her time in the civil war and after becoming a Satan, that skill became even more polished. She could see it in their eyes, both the maid and the pawn were extremely loyal to him.

She watches as the two peerages take their positions in their bases and waiting time starts. Shin-kun looks extremely calm and casual. She was waiting for their plans and strategies to see his skills as leader until he turns to his peerage and says something completely unexpected.

"We have 30 minutes to pass, so…who wants to watch a new anime?"

She had to suppress the urge to laugh out loud at the utter stupidity of the situation. Even Ajuka and Sirzechs look completely taken off guard by that and she couldn't help but let a chuckle in her mind at the twitch on Zekram's lips.

Yes, she was right. Shin-kun was really interesting.

- Shin –

As soon as the timer for the Rating Game's waiting period started, a screen flashed in front of me. Yup, I was kinda expecting this but still good to see that I get something out of this from the game too.

Rewards are always appreciated.

Quest Received

[Happy Thanksgiving]

What's a Thanksgiving without a turkey? And to make a good turkey, you need practice. You have an ever healing Giant Turkey in front of you. Use this opportunity to practice to your heart's content.

Objective : Defeat Riser Phenex in the Rating Game.

Bonus Objective 1 : Defeat every member of Riser Phenex's peerage before him.

Bonus Objective 2 : Win the Rating Game without losing any of you Peerage members.

Bonus Objective 3 : Defeat Riser Phenex by yourself without suffering any damage to your HP.

Rewards : Major Increased Affection with Rias Gremory, Major Affection and Reputation changes, ?,?,?,?,?.

Failure : Decreased Affection with Rias Gremory, Decreased Reputation with Zekram Bael, Major Affection and Reputation changes, you will become the joke of the entire underworld for a long time to come.

So many question marks for rewards. Although the affection and reputation gains were more than worth it.

I have some preparations to do in the waiting time. I have thought of a few things to do today. So let's start with the first.

"We have 30 minutes to pass, so…who wants to watch a new anime?"

As expected Sakuya only gives me a raised eyebrow in response, Morgiana looks to be fine with anything. Meredith however looks at me with the reaction suitable for any sane person.

"Sorry, I think I am more nervous than I thought. I am even hearing things now. Did you say that you wanted to watch an anime? Now?" she asks incredulously.

"Yup, I got my hands on this really awesome anime. We have some time to kill. Let's watch it." I reply with an excited tone as if I am not about to fight a battle in a couple ten minutes. "Oh, chill out Meredith. Just watch the first few minutes and if you don't like it, we will stop. Deal? Great. Sakuya please prepare some snacks while I play the Dvds for the anime."

I ignore any complains as I play the first episode of one punch man season one. Please remember that this show does not exist in this world. Rating game is all about entertaining the audience and what's more entertaining than some good o'l Siatama punching crap.

- Observation Room –

Rias watches as Shin plays a Dvd of a new anime. Shin was really…..unique. He was not someone who would take lightly of this game so this meant that he was really that confident right?

The show starts as buildings starts blasting off. A massive crater forms and in the middle of the crater is…..is that a blue Piccolo? Is that a new version of Drag-so-Ball. Why hadn't she heard of it yet? She watches as bald man with a white cape and yellow coloured suit goes out. Is he the protagonist of this anime?

"Hahahaha, he looks like Fabium-chan. doesn't he Ajuka-chan. He doesn't have the beard though." sounded the voice of Serafall-sama in the background.

She will have to agree with that. He really looks a little as the current Asmodeus.

Siaraorg looks quite excited, she didn't know that her cousin had taken an interest in the wonderful world of animes.

"I am just a guy who is hero for fun."

She couldn't help but let a smile form on her lips even as Serafall-sama falls from her chair laughing at the said Hero's face.

This was really fun. Wait what.

"Not again, all it took was one punch. Damn itttttttttt."

What was that about, isn't it a good thing that he is so strong. Why is he so upset about it all?

"Oh, he looks at least Satan-class strong. This is good stuff. I wonder if I can fight a guy like that." Rias rolled her eyes at her cousin's comment.

"As if some common low born human can be a match for a noble devil. You shouldn't degrade yourself to their level young Bael." The arrogant voice of Lord Phenex abruptly cuts off her excitement all of a sudden. She can see where Riser gets his arrogance from. Lord Phenex was as arrogant if not even more than his son. "The foolish boy, is just trying to delude himself with distractions while waiting for Riser to crush him dust, then again Riser might just burn him to cinders."

She had to ruthlessly suppress the urge to throw a sphere of destruction at the elder Phenex. That won't be good for anyone here.

"We will just have to wait to see that don't we Lord Phenex." Siaraorg's reply does a large part to soothe her anger as she watches further.

Wow, this animation is really good. She will have to check the anime later herself. What was the name of the show again?

"I am the strongest. So, what if I am. I feel empty. Right? Having overwhelming strength is ….. pretty boring "

"This show is really good. I wonder if I can get Fabium-chan to wear this costume for my Magical Girl show and do a special episode. Magical Girl Miracle Levia-tan and One Punch Baldy" Serafall-sama is as excited as ever. But really this anime was quite awesome. Shin really has good taste.

Maybe the two of them could watch this anime together later. Yes, that's a good idea.

The next fight with the Subterraneans was really cool. She could see this anime being a major hit. It was really surprising that she hadn't heard of it yet. Why did no sites promote such a cool anime? Was it taken from a manga or was it a light novel? She will have to thoroughly search it though, or she could just ask Shin later. The fight ends up being a dream while Saitama defeats the enemies again.

"I've become too strong. THE STRONGEST MAN"

"That was pretty cool. I wonder where I can get the rest of the fight. I have wanted to watch Drag-so-Ball to learn Ki blasts like Shin, but this show is really cool to watch too." She suddenly hears Siaraorg saying something incredible.

Shin can do Ki Blasts. She didn't know that. Can she learn that too? Now she really wanted to see what this Rating Game will show her about Shin.

Before she could ask Siaraorg more about it, she sees Shin making a move.

"CLAP."

- Shin –

"Alright playtime's over we have 10 minutes for the game to start. Meredith please put up security barriers so that no one can hear us." I start taking command with my serious Game face on.

"I don't think people can spy on us. It's not allowed in the rules." Replies Meredith sounding confused even as she puts up the barrier and takes her seat.

"Rules mention that we cannot go outside our designated areas during the waiting time. Aside from that we cannot cause health damage to the other peerage. Other than that nothing else is prohibited. We can always be spied on after all I have been doing the same for the last 20 minutes."

"WHAT? When, how? You were sitting here with us all this time. How did you spy on them from here." Come one Meredith, I wouldn't say my secrets in a live show now would I?

"I have my ways. Anyways, I have mapped the area of the Rating Game field." I say as I use my Magic weapon creation to make a shadow model of the rating game field. I then divide the field into 8 rows and 8 columns as a chess board.

This will help us mark the areas much better and co-ordinate our moves with far more accuracy than otherwise.

"We need to secure our base from points A3 and A6. These are the only two probable routes which the enemy can take to our base. Be prepared for the group of 5 pawns and 3 pawn and 1 rook. Other groups will consist of two bishops and 1 rook, 2 Knights and the queen will be independent. This is my analysis of the opponent King's game patterns in his previous Rating games. They will try to overwhelm each of you before taking you out individually before coming after me to 'make an example of me' if my predictions are correct."

"We need to intercept them at point A3 first. Sakuya will take this point while Morgiana will take point A3. Meredith will remain hidden at point B2 and wait for my signal before attacking back. Sakuya you are to keep them busy. I repeat only busy and not retire them until I command you to. The queen of the enemy Peerage is known as the Bomb Queen, she will try to ambush you after you have defeated the pawns."

"What kind of uncreative name is that? Bomb Queen? What will they name us then, Knife Knight, Nail Bishop and Kicking Pawn. Seriously can't someone think of some cool names" Meredith complains as I explain them the layout of the map.

"Ughh, let's pray that they don't do that. Anyways, Sakuya you are not to use 'that' until I give you the command or you are at a danger of being retired. Keep them busy and bait the queen. At my command, finish them at once while Meredith will attack the queen." I command getting serious again.

"Yes Master." Ah, Sakuya is just perfection. No other way to define her.

"Morgiana will engage the second team at A6. Keep them busy. How many power ups can you handle at maximum and how many of them can you keep up without getting tired." I enquire Morgiana about her progress with the Boosted Gear.

"16 maximum and 5 without getting tired." She replies to the point.

"Acceptable, keep rotating between 0 to 5 every minute and reset by the end of it. Engage them but do not finish them up before I give the order."

"Okay." Good Girl, I am really starting to like her. She is cute and obedient. Perfect subordinate for me.

"When the queen reveals herself, Meredith take her down. Sakuya will dodge the ambush and will join you. Speed is of essence here. Do not hold much back. Only make sure she doesn't die." I don't want people dying today. It will put a damper on my name if there are deaths in my first Rating Game.

"I will handle the two Knights before I catch up to the third team of Bishops and Rook who will be distracted until then by my bishop." I reply with a smile.

"Wait, what bishop. I thought that I was your only Bishop. When did you get another one? Why didn't I know of it?" she really asks a lot of questions.

"Well I recruited one just now." I point behind her at her shadow as I use create a Shadow Servant in shape of Meredith. Throwing her a cloak which is identical to Meredith's own, I continue "She will distract the Bishop's team."

Ignoring their hanging jaws, I continue "Now, after Sakuya takes down the pawns, the ream game starts. No interruptions of what I am going to say next, ask any questions when I am finished." I order seriously leaving no room for interruptions "When you finish the 5 pawns team, the queen will have a high chance to go through her attack trying to finish you, Sakuya. You have to look her in her eyes right then and then dodge that attack. You are permitted to use 'that' freely from the moment you attack the pawns."

"The queen will panic when you dodge the attack and move back to C4, there she will be engaged by Meredith and you will join her and finish the queen at the fastest possible pace." I turn to Meredith for the questions.

And sure enough she has one for me "How are you so sure that she will move in that direction, why not any other. If she moves in the opposite direction, we would be stuck with chasing her for a long time."

"In the 10 Rating Games she had been on the backfoot for a total of 17 times, 15 of those times she moved to her 5 o' Clock direction, the other 2 cases were when that direction was blocked. In case she does move in the opposite direction, I have set traps, in the cell A2. It will blow up if she enters that area." I explain calmly. I have already rigged the field with my magic bombs using my shadow servants using shadow walk all over our area. It was not noticeable because no one would pay attention to my sleeves. I was constantly feeding them the bombs from my inventory.

"When did you do that? We didn't notice anything." She asks looking shocked.

"It was around the time Saitama was buying crabs. Next part, when the queen gets taken down immediately after the pawns, Ravel their tactician will panic. She will divide the team into two and send the other bishop and rook to check the path the pawns had taken which she herself will take the area the queen was at. Any other option will be prevented by the second bishop." I explain the further steps of my plan.

"Meredith is to intercept Ravel and make her retire. If she is being stubborn, you are permitted to use 'that' to threaten her." I speak looking at Meredith who calms down and nods at me.

"Sakuya will take the other bishop and rook, where you will be joined by Morgiana. Again I repeat. Take them down with your fastest speed. DO NOT PLAY WITH THEM IN ANY WAY." I am not going to fail my bonus objective because my peerage members were feeling high and started behaving like cliché villains.

"In that time I will have taken down the Knights, the only one left will be the other peerage's King for us to take down."

"Now, Riser Phenex is truly a common case of a spoiled kid with the flair for dramatics. His reaction to his entire peerage being eliminated will be blowing up his own base to show his anger and thus wasting around 13% of his demonic power in the act. Next he will fly above the burning base and Blast off the H7 cell losing another 5% before flying to G5 to look down on us all the while spewing crap like 'You have made Riser mad , Riser will make you pay for it'. It's basically his version of 'HULK MAD' with same intelligence and anger, just not the same power. Any questions"

"Why wouldn't he destroy any other cells with his 2nd attack? How do you know the exact amount of power he will waste?" This girl really finds a question every time she opens her mouth, doesn't she?

"Have you seen a kid go a kilometer away from home just to throw a tantrum? I measured his demonic power last time I saw him and judging by the wards around our base which I presume will be the same as his, it will take at least 13% of his power to break. " I give her an obvious look. "Morgiana will go to the opponent's base and promote to queen, while I engage him in a fight, while others wait for me to complete the game. It won't take long." I finish my plan there.

My peerage let out a breath when I finish talking. The 1k WIS perk gives me the ability to analyse and predict opponents movements based on previous data. High- grade calculations. Basic stuff.

"What happens if any of their pawns reach our base while we are absent?" Sakuya asks raising a valid question.

"The Base will blow up. While the base is kinda seen as my throne and I'd rather not lose it if possible, if it becomes a liability then….." I leave the statement unfinished.

A period of silence settles over the room.

"With the amount of information you have on them, I wouldn't be surprised if you knew what colour their underwears were either." Meredith makes a comment while taking a sip of water from her glass while trying to lighten the atmosphere.

"Well, Yubeluna makes purple lace with white string look quite good." I pass off the comment casually.

The silence that followed was biting to say the least.

"Did you peak under their skirts?" Meredith's voice was soft but it gave me shivers for some reason. I'd rather not joke here.

"I was not peeking. I was …..collecting information." I complete nodding to myself at the close save. It was a perfectly safe reason.

"And why would her underwear's colour matter to anything?"

"Not her underwear's colour, I was checking them for any hidden weapons or items. They can change the results of my predictions by a high degree. Heads up, Yubeluna is hiding a vial of Phenex tears between her breasts, Ravel has one in her right pocket, Xuelan the rook has a flash bomb in her clothes. If any of them reach for their clothes, blast them to pieces. On a side note Mihae, the bishop is going commando with a dagger in the sleeves of her kimono." I try to break the silence with extra information.

It did not work.

"1 minute left till the start of the Rating Game."

Thank you Grayfia. You really are the best support one can ask for.

Not my fault that The Eyes of Darkness is an OP skill. Our clothes cast a shadow on our body too. Figure out the rest.

"Did you peek on us?" was Meredith's last question as she calms down. I knew she will see reason. She is a smart girl.

"No, why would I do that, you are my peerage. No point in doing that…..though don't you think that you are a year of two too early to pull of black lace. Not that I am complaining. You would no doubt look awesome in that."

"YOU BASTARD, why do you know that. You said you didn't peek."

"I didn't, you just have to stop marking your underwear with the days of the week. They were in my bag after the shopping you girls had and…what can I say, I have an eidetic memory. I didn't peek on you and no changing red for Mondays won't change anything."

"The Rating Game starts."

I take off before she can throw a holy nail through my skull.

- Observation Room –

Unlike the cheers from the rest of the stadium, the Observation Room is unnaturally quiet. Sona feels a cold drop of sweat sliding down her forehead all the way down to her collars.

"Ajuka-chan, how much of Shin-kun's analysis of his opponent's peerage's movements are accurate." Serafall asks breaking what seems like a century long silence as she addresses her fellow colleague and another one of the Satans.

"About 93% accurate. I cannot predict the movements of the Shadow creation of his among other things so the 7% are taken off for the time being." Ajuka Beelzebub answers the Leviathan who looks serious which is extremely rare for Serafall.

"I am more interested in the 'that' that Shin mentioned. They could give me a good idea about how the game will progress. Each of his members has one." Ajuka continues drawing their thoughts to other matters.

The situation had changed right at the moment when Shin had clapped his hands.

He had been spying on the opponent peerage and setting traps all this while and no one noticed. Maybe the Satan-Class and above did but Shin was not a Satan-Class. He wasn't even an Ultimate-Class, was he?

Sona wasn't sure what to think about this game anymore. If what Ajuka-sama confirmed right now is true, which she has no doubt it is. This is not a game anymore. No, it's more of a play which Shin had been directing even before it started. All the actors have taken their places and are just waiting for the time to act their roles.

Sona Stiri had always prided herself upon planning and strategy. Her title as the Smartest Devil among the Youth was a proof of that. Even she was sure of this fact. 'was' being the keyword here. She wasn't sure of it anymore. Shin Kageyami was not smart, no genius was also not good enough of defining someone like him. He is a Monster. Strength, power doesn't matter anymore. He had already won the game without even moving from the couch. This kind of feat was seen by only one other person among devils, one who is present in this very same room. One of the two Super Devils in underworld right now, Satan Ajuka Beelzebub.

She glances towards the Beelzebub who was looking closely at the screen while paying a minute attention to every detail. For someone of his status to even glance towards a Rating game among the youth's was a great praise but to pay a close attention was something completely unprecedented. But she could understand. Only Monsters can attract the attention of other Monsters.

She looks towards her best friend Rias and sees her gripping her seat with barely concealed hope and excitement. Her freedom in sight. She couldn't blame her. She just scored a major draw. Shin was a great win for her. Getting rid of Riser was of a bonus.

She looks towards the heavily sweating Lord Phenex. He looks extremely pale, completely contrary to the expression of Zekram who looks completely unfazed. The only other person who was nearly as unaffected was Siaraorg, although the amount of pressure he was exuding was anything but normal. It was not because he was intimidated because of the performance Shin Kageyami just showed.

"It doesn't matter. He can plan all he wants. No matter the trickery, it will all fall against absolute power of Riser." Lord Phenex loudly comments though the slight shiver at the end of his voice was anything but assuring.

Sona turns her attention back to the screen to the game…..no the play directed by Shin Kageyami. Her sister was right. This was indeed interesting.

- Ley Fay Pendragon –

Ley Fay was blushing up a storm. Kuroka laughing by her side was not helping either. Somewhere in the middle of the anime, which was really cool by the way, she woke up and joined her in watching the rating game.

Till now, she was sure of the fact that Meredith was there of her own choice, which was good for her.

Second, the handsome boy with her was her King and not her boyfriend. He was very funny though. Maybe they would have a boss-employee relationship like in those mangas she had seen Kuroka reading. She had taken a peek from between her fingers….. only a bit.

Meredith was growing up while she did not have a boyfriend. Why else would she wear black l-l Lace. That's what grown up girls wear when they go for dates and do naughty stuff.

"Nyahahaha, I like him. Your friend is good, Black Lace is nyaice." Kuroka comments from beside her.

She couldn't help but ask something that had been on her own mind for a while "What kind of underwear do you wear Kuroka-san?"

She gives her a smile which she has when she pranks Bikou "I am wearing a kimono nya, just like that bishop. Take a guess."

She should have known that. Let's concentrate on the match. Kuroka will always be a pervert.

- Azazel –

Taking a sip of his drink, his third one Azazel, looks at the other occupant of the room.

Vali was looking at the screen with undivided attention since the anime finished. He had to admit it was a great show.

The Strongest Man.

Shin Kageyami was indeed interesting. Claiming something like that through such a method was quite cunning.

His analysis of his opponent peerage's movement was however the game-changer. Azazel had seen Ajuka lead parties against the fallen and even against the Old Satan Faction and even against the Heavens. Although the so called Strategist of the devils was Fabium Asmodeus, he knew for a fact that it was only because Ajuka was more interested in his experiments.

And this boy was giving him a sense of Deja-vu of Ajuka Astaroth in his youth. The devils had gotten a gem and he had collected his own set. He will have to see what his peerage is capable of and his attitude towards the current status quo.

At the very least he was not boring like Ajuka. He would definitely ask for the spell he used to cough cough 'gather information' if he ever meets him.

His mentions of 'that' had been in his mind for a while now. Did he mean sacred gears? If his guesses are correct then that pawn who could power up is going to be the lead of the show at least for his surrogate son. He will have to think of a way to stop Vali from going right to the underworld and challenge her to a battle though. Being a dad is hard work after all.

At the very least he will get to watch a good show while having his drink.

- Sakuya –

As ordered by her Master, she took her position and waited for the opponents group to arrive. He had stated that there will be a group of 5 pawns.

How did he know that? That was a question she didn't have to ask. She had seen his power in Gensokyo and even if he has just started his journey, he is not someone she or anyone one else should underestimate.

And as predicted a group of 5 girls entered her vision, and she felt her eyes stuck to two of them. A feeling of challenge tickling her senses. Maids.

The other peerage had Maids too. No. They were not maids. No maids could be that sloppy. They were just pretenders. Were they trying to make a fun of her job?

This cannot be tolerated. Master told to not retire them till the queen attacks or he gives her the signal. He never mentioned teaching them a lesson.

- Burent –

As ordered by Lady Ravel, she, Marion, Ile and Nel and Mira proceeded to the path towards the enemy base. They were to eliminate any opponent that they encounter and promote to queen and return back to Lady Ravel for further orders.

Turning over the corner, she saw a figure standing on the other end of the clearing. Moonlight reflecting on her grey hair as those cold eyes stared them with complete indifference made her blood run cold.

"W-what is s-s-she doing here? She is not supposed to be in the opponent's peerage." She heard Marion choke out. She would have done the same too if she hadn't been frozen since she saw her.

What in Satan's name is the strongest Queen doing in the other peerage. Was Zekram Bael really that mad that he would go through such lengths for a Rating Game? Lady Ravel was dreading about something like this. She knew that picking a fight with the Bael's was never a good idea. Lord Phenex promoting the game didn't help either and now Zekram got the Strongest Queen involved.

They were so screwed.

"It's not her. Look closely. Her skirt is shorter and she looks younger too. They probably just dressed someone who looks like her to try to fool her." Mira said suddenly making them stop and take a proper look at the opponent.

True there were some differences. She was not the Strongest Queen. How cheap. To use a trick like that. She will pay for that.

"Trying to fool us by dressing up like the Strongest Queen. You fake will never be as strong as her." she shouted letting out the rage that her earlier fear and humiliation had turned into.

The fake tilts her head slightly. "This is my uniform. I wear it for work and why would I try to be like a Queen. I am a knight. As for fake, you who are trying to pretend to be a maid with your crass words and unrefined behavior shouldn't point a finger at me. I believe it's something like 'pot calling kettle black'. I will advise you not to step any further or I will be forced to take action."

Feeling her anger rise to a point of outrage she calls out for her fellow pawns "Girls let's show her who the fake is. Attack."

Mira attacked the fake with her staff. A jab at her neck to incapacitate her with the first hit.

The fake only looks with the same indifference "tch…..still pretending to be all calm and quiet to the very last instant. Let's see you hold that attitude after the staff hits you in…"

Her words stuck in her throat as the fake dodged the staff with barely a movement of her neck and sliced the entire staff into pieces. She barely saw her hands moving. No it had to be some trick. Was it a magic? A Sacred Gear maybe.

"Everyone attack at once. Don't give her a chance to pull that trick on us." She shouted before charging forward herself. They will win this.

- Morgiana –

Morgiana was feeling really excited. Her new Master had ordered her to go to her position and fight the people that would come there. It was something she could easily do. Her past few days had been very strange. She had never thought that her wish would be heard by a being of great power, who would then send her to her new Master Shin.

She had initially been wary or serving anyone but Shin was different. He didn't treat anyone like slaves. She was his employee. The others under him were happy too. Then again this world is much different than the old one.

As she picks up the speed, feeling the wind against her face a sense of freedom to do as she likes overwhelming all her senses, she calls the Boosted gear as she was told to do.

The Boosted Gear was something given to her by her Master. The gauntlet was a bit odd at first but it was indeed very useful. She doubted there were any Metal Vessels in her world who could rival its power. The power to kill even a God. It was terrifying to know that she had such a thing and…..that her Master had just given it to her.

It contained a dragon inside it. He was a bit angry at first but she could understand him. She knew it too, the feeling to be bound in a cage. The helplessness, the anger and the loneliness one feels like that. She talked to him and showed him her memories about her life in her world. It helped them understand each other better. Draaig was not bad. He was just someone who liked to do what he wanted. To be free. In some way, they were quite similar. He was just angry at her and her Master. She didn't blame him for it.

Being caged made you like that. After coming to a mutual understanding, they got along pretty well. Under that high and might shell, Draaig was quite a soft Dragon. People might call her a fool for saying that but she could somehow relate to him.

He told her stories about his time before being trapped in the Boosted Gear, his rivalry with Albion, his fights and the time he and Albion fought against all three factions together forcing them to join hands. He told her how their rivalries continues till this day and how she would have to fight against the weilder of the Divine Dividing. She didn't mind it. Her Fanalis blood was the blood of warriors. They reveled in fights and if they wanted a fight she would give them.

She couldn't think of any Metal Vessel from her world that could rival the Boosted Gear…..and to think that her Master just gave her such a treasure.

He put his faith in her and she would not disappoint him. She will fight for him until she can stand and then some more. She will become useful to him and her new friends, Sakuya, Draaig and Meredith.

Today they will win. With a 'Boost' from the Boosted Gear she ran forward to face her opponents round the corner.

Two cat girls, they are called Nekomata. She learned of that from Meredith and Draaig and one more pawn and one rook with black hair were coming her way.

She let out a battle cry stunning them before dived forward with a kick to the ground. Kicking the third pawn and sending her away, she jumped back to dodge a fire covered fist from the rook. She had to engage them and not take them down immediately. Hold back.

- Observation Room –

"Is that the Boosted Gear? That girl is the 'Red Dragon Empress'?" Rias couldn't help but speak of the obvious. It was just that disbelieving.

"Guess that clears one of the three 'that's that he had mentioned. It was indeed a great changer. I believe Shin-had already predicted it. The girl has been using it quite efficiently too and if her base strength can almost knock out the opponent's pawn in one kick, then 16 times boosted strength that she had mentioned will be able to take down Riser or at least severely wound him. A trump card indeed" Ajuka-sama finished his analysis and even without it nobody thought otherwise. This reveal was just that astonishing. One could only wonder, what the other two that's that Shin mentioned were.

A Heavenly Dragon among them was too shocking. It will change the power structure of the underworld.

- Meredith –

Meredith had been waiting on the positioned told by her Boss since the start of the game. They were waiting for the queen of the opponent's peerage to arrive there. That pervert boss was completely sure she would come here and she couldn't deny that he was always right about these things. His planning during their practice sessions against the undead had always been perfect. Even the bosses of the undead died very easily against them. No need to doubt his words. They follow his orders and they will win. It was just that simple.

And as the pervert had predicted she saw the Queen hovering up in the sky looking at the pawns and Sakuya fighting. Looking at Sakuya she couldn't help but snort. Those idiots thought they had a chance against her. She could turn them into a sieve in an instant if she wanted.

She sends her Boss the signal that the queen was near and that she could begin the attack. It was time they showed the world how they played Rating Games.

- Sakuya –

Sakuya watches as the five pawns are panting hard with numerous cuts on their bodies. She was barely out of breath.

"Begin Attack."

Her master's words echoes in her ears. She had noticed the presence of the opponent's queen in the sky.

"I did warn you all to give up, you refused. However playtime is now over."

The next instant she stopped the time and threw her knives around them, multiplying them with their copies of a moment earlier.

Stepping behind them while making eye contact with the frozen queen in the sky, she releases the time.

Several cries echoes throughout the field and the five pawns disappear in a flash of light as they retire.

"Riser Phenex's five pawns have retired."

As Master had predicted the queen in her shock fired her spell before it was ready. It was extremely easy for her to dodge it while she stopped the time and took to air flying next to the opponent's queen.

The shock in her eyes was evident as she steps back all and is ambushed by Meredith, the two-sided attack ending her struggles in an instant. She took away her vial of Phenex tears before she could use it and a well-placed knife to her chest at retired her.

"Riser Phenex's Queen has retired."

Their attack begins now

- Morgiana –

The signal was here. Morgiana let out all the 5 accumulated boosts in an explosion, boosting her power by 32 times. The enemies were barely able to keep up with her but with her boosted strength, it was all over in an instant.

A kick to the rook's chest send her flying while retiring with a flash of light followed by a warcry which was enough to stun the three pawns in fear.

They were send flying with well-placed kicks ending the fight as they disappear in flashes of light retiring them.

"Riser Phenex's three pawns and one rook have retired."

No more holding back.

- Observation Room –

"W-what was that just now? How did she do that?"

No one noticed whose voice spoke that. They were all too stunned at the sudden change in the situation.

Sure they knew that they were waiting to bait the opponent's queen out before beginning their attack. They also knew that it was going to be a speed based assault. But that…..was ridiculous. Barely 10 seconds had passed since she had taken down the pawns and the queen was taken down in a flash. How did she do that? What did she use?

"Time Magic. She stopped the time to move between them. She used the knives previous locations to make their previous instances and then used time magic further to accelerate the knives making them faster to pierce through her enemies' defenses all instantly." Ajuka explained to everyone present inside.

"That level of control over time magic is unseen even in the members of House Agares. She is definitely a Master of her magic."

"She is like Gasper." whispered Rias to herself. Her eyes showing different emotions. Helplessness, sorrow, determination and the most recent one Hope.

"The second 'that' was I time magician I suppose. It is a lost art and I certainly did not imagine seeing it today. Not to such level of Mastery at the very least." Serafall's voice brings them all back from their thoughts.

They turn their eyes to the one who had orchestrated this whole play.

- Shin -

I was engaging the two knights of the opponent.

Narrowly dodging the attack of Karlamine, I turn to throw a ball made of darkness at her. My attention was focused on her momentarily giving Siris a chance at me. She plunges her Zweihänder towards me.

I noticed it at the last instant and try to dodge only to slip as the Zweihänder thrusts through my stomach piercing through me.

- Observation Room -

"SHIN" Rias cries, her voice shocking everyone present as they turn towards her. Her face completely pale as shock covers her entire form.

"HAHAHAHA. I knew it, for all that planning, he was weak. Failed before even fighting Riser. That's what he gets for challen…." Lord Phenex's voice was stopped with a single word from the screen.

"KATSU"

"BOOOOOOOOM".

- Shin –

My explosion shadow clone explodes as Karlamine watches in shock as the explosion sends Siris flying in a burst of light retiring her.

I grab hold of her legs from the shadow under her. Using Shadow Realm in her own shadow, I drag her down to her neck leaving her there. My version of Double suicide decapitation jutsu.

Looking forwards, she saw me rising up from her shadow. The look in her eyes was a treat if nothing.

"You should give up." I don't want to attack cute girls if I don't have to.

"I will not give up, Lord Riser will…"

BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM

Firing four Ki Blasts on her head I move forward to the next area. Meredith would be arriving at her position to engage Ravel. I did order my peerage not to toy around with them. I am a part of my peerage too so the rule goes for me too.

"Riser Phenex two knights have retired."

- Ravel –

Ravel Phenex had never had a good feeling regarding the Rating Game. From the moment Riser had challenged the other guy, she knew that this was a disaster in waiting. Now more than half of their entire peerage had been retired within one minute. One single minute, considering that their peerage had been all over the field it was terrifying to even think how the opponent did that.

If only she could catch that annoying bishop with a cloak who had been annoying her by guerrilla tactics all this while, she would have backed up the others.

The opponent was playing them like a fiddle all this while and she could do nothing about it at all.

Her thoughts were interrupted when she heard a voice speak behind her.

"Ravel Phenex, give up. We don't want to drag this fight more than we need to." followed by which she sees the Bishop of the opponent who had been annoying her all this time walking up to her from the shadows.

"Hmph, big talk for someone who had been running around like a little kitten all this time. Did you finally want me to put an end to your misery."

"Riser Phenex one Rook and one Bishop have retired."

"Looks like that side has been taken care of too. Took you long enough." the bishop speaks to someone behind her. Turning back, she feels her blood freeze.

Silver Hair, red eyes and French maid uniform. What is she doing here?

"Do you give up?" asks the bishop again.

There is something different about the other one. Her skirt is shorter than Grayfia's. She would never wear shorter skirt to show any skin.

This was a fraud. Maybe a fan or wannabe?

"Trying to trick me by dressing up the Strongest Queen to give up? I have never seen such idiotic tactics used by anyone. Did you really think that I would just roll awa…" her voice gets stuck in her throat at the dreatful feeling she felt around the bishop. Holy power.

"H-h-h-Holy i-items are not allowed in rating games. You will be disqualified. You ruined your game." her happiness about the thoughts to win is somehow ruined by the terrifying feeling from the sword summoned by the bishop. Is she trying to kill her? Even with her Phenex regeneration, she could be killed if she gets hit by that sword of hers.

"Holy items maybe. But not sacred gears. It is well within the rules to use any sacred gear in the matches. Give up of I will not hold back anymore."

- Observation Room –

"What blasphemy is this? Are they going to cheat so blatantly? Using holy swords in a Rating Game? Is no one going to stop the game and disqualify them" roared Lord Phenex when the bishop revealed the holy sword.

The atmosphere became tensed when the bishop brought out her sword. Everyone was worried about her sneaking such an item in a rating game of this high importance. It will be a big scandal if something bad were to happen because of it. One wrong move and Shin will be disqualified. This was turning out to be a mess when everything was starting to look good.

Rias has been feeling the killing intent rolling off of Kiba when the bishop bought out the holy sword. This would be difficult for them to get around.

Kiba has not forgotten about his revenge against holy sword wielders and now Shin's bishop is a person who wields one of them. How will they get along?

Oh a sacred gear. Is that blade blacksmith? She had heard that it was a holy sword version of Kiba's sacred gear. Maybe this can be salvaged then. It is not a holy sword just a scared gear. Right?

"That is no sword." the voice of Ajuka Beelzebub. "It is a sacred Gear. A top-tier one and almost on the level of a Longinus. Alphecca Tyrant, Unparalleled crown of the Abbys, is a sacred gear made of the holy nails which were used to crucify Christ. One of the Holy Relics along with the True Longinus, Incinerate Anthem, Sephiroth Graal . The bracelet on her wrist is the Iron Crown of Lombardy. It was reported as lost but was made into a sacred gear. It wonder how Shin found such a person to work for her. Normal devils would have turned to ashes by just being in the presence of that nail. The fact that she is unaffected means she has balanced it with her own power or has at least found a way to do the same. Truly something worth researching. I wonder if she is using one of the artifacts that Shin has crafted recently. Also as it is a sacred gear, it is not against the rules so no one will be disqualified." Akuka finished with a tone of finality.

He is the creator of the evil pieces and Rating Game and rules. His judgement on matters relating to Rating games is final.

Rias couldn't help but feel a load off her shoulders on hearing The Beelzebub.

Even Kiba calmed down considerably on hearing this, even though he is still showing hostility, at least it is not directed to anyone. She will have to clear this matter later or this might become a problem later on.

Even thought she was thinking all this, her heart feels much lighter on thinking the meaning of this reveal. It means that Shin can hurt Riser and he won't be able to heal. He has a chance to win.

"I guess that it was the third 'that'. I have to say that I didn't even guess this one. It was truly an ace in the hole. This bishop was the dark horse all along." Serafall speaks up, diverting the attention of the people from the heavily tensed atmosphere in the room.

"I retire from this game."

"Riser Phenex one Bishop retired."

Only one left. They can win this. Shin will definitely win this. Rias clenches the fingers of her hand in excitement and anticipation.

- Shin –

All pieces are in place. Show time.

- Enjoying the game like a King –

Zekram Bael had to cut own palms to suppress the smirk that was about to show on his face. This was turning out to be better than he expected. The Red Dragon Empress and the Alphecca Tyrant. Having even one of those will be a great boost to the power of any peerage and having both was just…..terrifying. And all this was done in 10 days. In 10 days, he scouted all three members of his peerage and obtained their loyalty. This was indeed amazing progress. The look of horror on Oggan Phenex's face is something worth watching.

Foolish man, tried to reach over his head. Now all that is left is for the arrogant son of the Phenex to lose in an overwhelming manner.

The authority of The Great King will be announced with this. That Bald person was correct. Being overwhelmingly strong is …boring.

He was Zekram Bael, The Great King, The Strongest Man in the Underworld.

Strength comes in different forms after all and he holds the most strength in the underworld and he will keep it that way. A nice message indeed.

- Infinite Thoughts –

As she watched the Devil's rating game, she notices a person of great power.

He was overwhelmingly strong.

In all her time away from her home, she had been trying to find out ways to regain her silence. She gathered a group of potential candidates for it. Humans, fallen, Gods. Anyone who can help her achieve silence were recruited.

But she still wasn't sure that they could put a fight against Baka-Red.

Now for the first time, she had a hope. Maybe, just maybe the one she is seeing in front of her can help her achieve her goals.

All she has to do is find him now.

She will go to the underworld and find Shin Kageyami.

.

.

..and he will tell her where Saitama is.

_x_x_

Hey Guys, been a while. I was actually having too much fun writing this chapter that I got a bit over the limit. I could have finished Riser's stomping in 1k or 2k words easily. But the thing is that, I wanted to give it a good ending. I have further plans for Riser so just finishing him up in a hurry will be a waste.

Just wait for it, next chapter I will complete the rating game for sure…..or will I?

Ok, I will, promise.

So things have been happening in the background. I haven't written Sirzech's or Grayfia's reactions yet because I was thinking about other thing. Future plots.

I will be sure to write them soon.

Half the opponents had almost pissed their pants after seeing Sakuya. I can't wait to write the meeting between the two of them in the future.

Finally, Shin is revealed to the whole world. How will they react to the appearance of Shin? What chances will it cause?

So many things to think and so many things to ideas to consider.

Last but not the least, a certain someone wants to find Shin to know where Saitama is. Any guesses who that might be?

This chapter had many change in povs. I hope I pulled it off well enough to make it readable. This Rating Game was mostly about reactions of different people so the povs had to be done.

Now, I haven't been able to properly reply to the reviews because they were not appearing in the site. It's been fixed now though. I still got them on my gmail and really thank you all for supporting me with your reviews. It really means a lot to me.

Some people had questions about the levels of the peerage members. Please check that Meredith was level 45, veteran at the start. She was level 45 elite at the end of her training.

That's 45*2 to 45*4, that is 90-180.

So yeah, she did level up.

Next, no the fast progress is only at the start. The power scale in DxD is pretty much broken. Even Satan Class devils won't count anywhere near against the truly powerful ones. Please remember that the Breast Freak became a super devil in one year give or take. That's like the lower ranks of the Top 10 Strongest Beings on the world. And he didn't have an All-Powerful Gamer System behind his back. So if Shin doesn't progress at least at this rate, then in my opinion, he should offer his ass to Dumb-and-Dork to fuck.

There are characters who have beheaded Great Red and killed it in the True LNs.

And here people are complaining about 8-Winged Devils who are worse than cannon fodders. To be honest, I don't want to repeat this so many times but the number of PMs I am getting because of this reason is honestly annoying, I like the reviews but even after explaining my reason in the past chapters, it always comes up to this. Do they even read the author's note?

They will be fighting Loki and Fenrir in future and Shin doesn't magically gain power from breasts that would pull him through all his troubles without working for it. Plot Armours in Dxd are such BS.

Need I remind you that Barakiel and Tannin were smacked around when fighting against Loki and Fenrir. They growth will be passed accordingly but I have no intention of keeping him as the underdog just to create the cliché suspense. I would rather find other ways to do it. If you want the usual crap, please read the cannon or hundreds of other cannon based fanfictions.

All that losing the Rating Game and going to crash the engagement is so overused that every time I read it now, I feel like throwing my smartphone out of the window. It is the same for Rias being an idiotic villain. Too overused.

I am trying to deviate from the cannon here, so please let me write it like I feel comfortable. Why should I do the same things like the cannon or everyone else.

Sorry for ranting all this time. But seriously 25 pms of Shin getting too op in one day. I have doubts that they are certain people trying to harass me with different accounts. Just doubts.

I won't bore you all with my blabbering anymore. Thank you for reading guys.

Good Day, Peace out.