The Fallen Dragon (DxD)

Chapter 16: Dragon Eater

After Issei's departure, the atmosphere in the Hyoudou Residence lounge grew more relaxed as both parties settled in, engaging in conversations. Eventually, they all made their way to the basement section of the residence. Joining them were Ravel and Irina, who weren't affiliated with any peerage or terrorist organization but were members of the ORC.

Among the group, Akeno and Kiba were the first to be teleported. Their destination was the Stadium in the Underworld, specifically in the Glasiya-Labolas territory, where they were scheduled to take their exam. The rest of the group would be heading to the Hotel once Akeno and Kiba had been safely transported.

Upon their arrival in the Underworld, Akeno and Kiba found themselves on a spacious floor. A staff member from the Stadium approached them, requesting identification. They promptly displayed the Gremory Sigil and their letters of recommendation. Satisfied, the staff member guided them through a corridor, leading them to a reception area where other exam participants were engaged in conversations with receptionists.

As Akeno and Kiba made their entrance, they couldn't help but notice the incredulous looks of the other participants. These reactions resulted from Issei's newfound reputation—a mix of violence and an enigmatic aura bordering on tyranny. Usually, such stares would have made Akeno and Kiba uncomfortable, but having endured Issei's intense scrutiny throughout the week, they felt oddly unperturbed.

The same staff member who had guided them directed Akeno and Kiba to submit their documents at the reception area. With that done, they ascended the stairs, making their way to the upper floor, where the written portion of the exam awaited them.

As they delved into the exam questions, Akeno and Kiba focused their attention on their individual papers. With pens moving swiftly across the pages, they tackled queries ranging from fundamental knowledge about Devil's, Magical Girl, encompassing figures like Serfall Leviathan and the Khaos Brigade. Some questions, originally centred around Issei and the Red Dragon Emperor, had been replaced due to his ex-communication, now demanding additional insights.

In the room, the atmosphere was palpably tense, with participants from diverse peerages all striving to showcase their abilities and progress to the next stage of the exam. Akeno and Kiba pressed on, drawing upon their extensive training and discussions with Issei from the past week. Issei's meticulous guidance had honed their skills, empowering them to face even the most challenging questions with unwavering confidence.

Time seemed to stretch as they navigated the exam, recalling Issei's analytical prowess and keen insights that had prepared them for this moment. Despite the initial scepticism from their peers, they were determined to prove their worth and dispel any doubts lingering about their abilities.

After what felt like an eternity, the written exam came to a close. Akeno and Kiba handed in their papers, a mixture of relief and anticipation washing over them. Leaving the examination room, they headed to the cafeteria area of the Stadium to discuss their performance. Both affirmed their answers, reinforcing their confidence and began preparing for the upcoming practical exam. They knew they were well-prepared, thanks to Issei's rigorous training, instilling in them the assurance that they would succeed.

The next stage of the exam brought them to a vast arena, where they were to demonstrate their combat skills. Escorted to the battleground, Akeno and Kiba faced opponents from various peerages, each possessing unique abilities and fighting styles. Akeno channelled her lightning-based attacks, showcasing her mastery over the elements, while Kiba displayed his impeccable swordsmanship and remarkable speed, gracefully dodging attacks and countering with precision strikes. Employing the techniques and tactics honed through Issei's training, they fought fiercely, their battles becoming a spectacle of agility, strategy, and teamwork.