Chapter [153]

Riser's Private Mansion in the Underworld

Riser's office was a luxurious space, decorated with elegant furniture and artwork reflecting his status. The soft light from the lamps created a cozy and sophisticated ambiance. Riser was seated in his leather chair behind a large wooden desk, while Akeno and Koneko sat in chairs before him.

Akeno, with a gentle smile, was the first to speak. "Riser-sama, we'd like to discuss our future in your Peerage. Koneko and I have some things to clarify."

Riser nodded, his gaze alternating between the two. "Of course, Akeno. I'm here to listen. What do you have in mind?"

Akeno took a deep breath before continuing. "I... I would like to stay in your Peerage. I feel good here, and I think I can be useful to you. Besides..." She hesitated for a moment, blushing slightly. "I have feelings for you, Riser-sama."

Riser smiled slightly, acknowledging Akeno's confession. "I'm glad to hear that, Akeno. You are an excellent member of my Peerage."

Koneko, who was seated next to Akeno, remained silent, but her expression was serious. She finally spoke, her voice calm and determined. "Riser-sama, despite everything you've done for me, I prefer to return to Rias' Peerage."

Riser looked at Koneko, understanding her decision. "I understand, Koneko. I respect your choice. And know that I appreciate your honesty."

Akeno remained silent, respecting Koneko's decision.

Riser smiled at both of them, satisfied with the clarity of the situation. "Very well, Koneko. I'll take you personally to Rias' mansion. But first, I'd like to have a private conversation with you."

Akeno stood up and left the office, closing the door behind her.

Koneko, initially tense about being alone with Riser, took a deep breath and remembered everything he had done for her reconciliation with her sister. This calmed her a bit, but she remained alert.

Riser stood up and walked around the desk, sitting on its edge, closer to Koneko. "Koneko, I know this decision wasn't easy for you. I want you to know that I respect and admire your loyalty to Rias. And I also want to thank you for trusting me during this time."

Koneko looked at Riser, her big, expressive eyes showing a mix of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Riser-sama. You've done a lot for me and my sister. I'll never forget that."

Riser smiled, reaching out to gently touch Koneko's shoulder. "You are a strong and loyal person, Koneko. Rias is lucky to have you in her Peerage. And if you ever need anything, I'll be here to help."

Koneko nodded, feeling a wave of relief and confidence. "Thank you, Riser-sama. That means a lot to me."

Riser kept his hand on Koneko's shoulder, his gaze becoming more serious. "Koneko, before you return to Rias' Peerage, there's something important I need to discuss with you."

Koneko frowned, intrigued. "What is it, Riser-sama?"

Riser sighed, choosing his words carefully. "It's about your sister, Kuroka. She is now part of Merlin's Peerage, which is part of my Peerage. If Rias or anyone from the Gremory family finds out about this, it could cause problems for all of us."

Koneko looked at him, concerned. "Rias wouldn't tell anyone. I trust her."

Riser nodded, understanding Koneko's trust. "I understand that you trust her, Koneko. But just as you trust Rias, Rias might trust someone else, and before you know it, everyone will know. A word said in confidence can spread quickly."

In his thoughts, Riser wanted Koneko to tell Rias. He knew the information could be useful for his future plans.

Koneko, determined, responded firmly. "Rias would never betray my trust. She understands the importance of keeping secrets."

Riser smiled slightly, his gaze soft. "The secret is in your hands, Koneko. You can decide whether to tell or not. Just be aware of the possible consequences."

Koneko took a deep breath, accepting the responsibility. "I understand, Riser-sama. I'll think carefully about what to do."

Riser stood up, satisfied with her response. "Very well. Now, go say goodbye to Sona and the other girls. Then we'll head to Kuoh to visit your sister and from there to Rias' mansion."

Koneko nodded, standing up from the chair. "Thank you, Riser-sama. I'll do that now."

As Koneko left the office, Riser gave a broad smile, thinking about his next steps. He knew Koneko was in a difficult position and that, regardless of her choice, he could use the situation to his advantage.

"Koneko is loyal, but the pressure of a secret can work wonders," Riser thought, satisfied with the turn of events. He stood up and began planning his next moves, his smile growing wider.

Astaroth Family Mansion

Diodora Astaroth was in his room, a luxurious but currently disordered environment reflecting his chaotic mental state. Books and objects were scattered on the floor, some furniture overturned, as he paced back and forth, his rage evident in every movement.

Diodora's eyes were full of fury and frustration. He stopped abruptly and punched the wall with force, leaving a visible mark. "Damn Sirzechs! He wants to do to me what he did to Riser. This is unacceptable!" he shouted, his voice reverberating through the room's walls.

He began to remember the slap Riser had given him in front of everyone. The humiliation gnawed at him from within. "That idiot Riser! How dare he disrespect me like that? A slap in the face! I'll make him pay for this."

Diodora continued pacing, his rage growing with each thought. "And now, I have to duel with Issei Hyoudou because of a marriage contract I didn't even want! As if I wanted that stupid slut!"

But what disturbed him most was the impossibility of adding Asia to his harem. He stopped and punched the wall again, harder this time, causing cracks. "Asia! I should have her in my harem, but now... now that's out of reach! All because of Riser!"

Outside the room, Lara, the Queen of Diodora's Peerage, listened to all the noise. She was worried but also aware of the need to give him space to vent his anger. Lara knew that intervening now would only worsen the situation.

Inside the room, Diodora finally stopped, breathing heavily, trying to control the fury burning inside him. He looked at the destroyed room, the mess reflecting his mental state. "I won't let it end like this. I'll find a way to turn the tables in my favor," he murmured, his voice filled with determination.

Lara, outside, heard the silence that followed the shouts and noise. She took a deep breath, ready to enter and offer her support when he was ready to talk. She knew Diodora needed a plan, but he also needed someone by his side to help him face these challenges.

Diodora, still breathing heavily, looked at the door. He knew Lara was there, waiting patiently. "Lara," he called, his voice more controlled now.

Lara entered the room, her eyes quickly analyzing the destruction around. "Diodora-sama," she said softly, her voice full of concern and loyalty. "I'm here to help."

Diodora looked at her, his eyes still filled with anger but also determination. "We need a plan, Lara. I won't let them defeat me. We'll show everyone the true power of the Astaroth."

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