The entire room fell into stunned silence as Raza ascended the stairs. Asia’s bewilderment was palpable. “Huh? Huh? Huh? What is going on?” she stammered.
Kiba glanced at her, explaining, “That’s Raza Phenex.”
Asia nearly jumped up. “He’s the one who told President Rias he would protect her, right?”
Koneko nodded, confirming her suspicion. Meanwhile, Akeno’s eyes were riveted to the unfolding scene. On the platform, Rhea and Venelana exchanged knowing glances, but a trace of nervousness lingered on Rhea’s face. She understood, perhaps more than anyone, how deeply personal this was about to become.
Regulus watched his son climb the steps, recognizing that Raza had chosen this moment for a reason. Zeoticus, on the other hand, looked completely baffled by the events. Ravel stared in astonishment at her brother, while Sirzechs and Grayfia remained composed. Rias’s eyes followed Raza, already glistening with tears, words failing her.
At the top, Raza paused in front of them all, fixing his gaze on Rias first. She looked heartbroken. “You came,” she said, voice trembling.
“I made a promise, after all,” Raza replied quietly.
Turning to Riser, the brothers locked eyes, tension thick in the air. Riser’s rage was barely contained—his eye twitched, and after a moment, he let out a sound, dropping his head before laughing bitterly.
“Seriously. Out of all the things you could have done—this? I have to hand it to you, brother. You certainly know how to entertain.”
Raza’s voice was cold. “You won’t find what I’m about to do entertaining, brother.” He pointed at Riser. “Riser Phenex, by ancient law, I challenge you to a duel.”
Gasps echoed throughout the room. Rias’s eyes widened in shock. Riser looked annoyed but said nothing, meeting Raza’s unyielding stare.
Sirzechs stepped forward, his voice solemn. “A challenge has been issued by ancient tradition. Challenger Raza, name your price.”
Raza answered firmly, “If I win, this marriage will be annulled and Rias Gremory freed from her contract.”
Sirzechs nodded. “Acceptable. Riser Phenex, do you accept the challenge?”
Riser was silent, his gaze locked on Raza. Finally, he spoke, his voice cold. “I accept. And as my price…I want his life.”
Horror washed over Rias. The room was plunged once again into heavy silence. Raza’s expression remained unchanged, but now his eyes blazed with determination. Rhea stumbled, and Venelana caught her, whispering in disbelief, “How could he?”
Regulus’s demeanor shifted, watching the drama unfold with growing concern. Even Ravel’s expression faltered. “Eh…?” she murmured, finally grasping that her brothers were about to fight to the death. Fear gripped her chest for the first time.
Asia was aghast. “How could someone be this cruel?” The rest of the peerage shared the same mix of worry and anticipation.
Sirzechs regarded both Raza and Riser. “These terms are…. acceptable. The duel will take place now.”
Staff moved quickly, preparing a teleportation circle. Raza and Riser continued to glare at each other, neither willing to break eye contact.
Rias rushed to Raza’s side, pleading with him. “You don’t have to do this. You don’t have to go this far.”
Raza didn’t respond, his focus fixed solely on Riser.
Sirzechs announced, “The duel will take place in the arena inside the pocket dimension. Both fighters, take your places.”
Riser and Raza stepped into the open portal, entering the arena. Rias watched helplessly as he departed. Both Phenex parents looked terrified—Venelana clutching Rhea’s arm for support. All eyes were on the fighters as they took their positions. Guests whispered among themselves, speculating who would emerge victorious.
Riser sneered, “I’m going to do what father should have done years ago. He took pity on you, you know—but I don’t have such weaknesses. I’ll end you here and now…brother.”
The two brothers faced each other, the tension palpable. Those watching the screen held their breath.
And then the announcement rang out: “The duel between Riser Phenex and Raza Phenex begins!”
Both fighters moved.