Chapter 46: Planning
With the Rating Game scheduled for that evening, in real-world time, Rias had everyone gather around a large rectangular dining table in the Ending Zone of the Second Stratum's Fifteenth Floor to enjoy a feast.
"First off, I would like to express my gratitude toward the members of Sona's Peerage for accompanying us in this training endeavor. We could have done this without you, but your presence and companionship during this period made this extended training venture much more endurable and pleasant for everyone," expressed Rias, raising a thin champagne glass of sparkling juice in a toast.
"Hear, hear~!" exclaimed Issei, beaming as he clinked his own glass with Tsubasa and Kiba. Around the table, everyone followed suit, clinking their glasses together in a gesture of camaraderie, provoking smiles all around.
Waiting for everyone to take a drink and settle down, Rias narrowed her eyes in appreciation, adding, "Second, I'm proud of how far everyone has come these past two and a half months. I could not have asked for better subordinates and friends, and I'm confident that if we give tonight our all, Riser and his Peerage won't stand a chance. So let's do it...!"
In response to Rias's vigor, everyone gathered around the table raised their glasses high, emulating her gesture as they responded with cheers and affirmations. Issei made a comment about having Grilled Chicken for their post-game meal, prompting a round of laughter. Then, for the rest of their time in the Corridor, everyone feasted and made merry, completing their protracted stay on a high note...
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"You've finally returned. Welcome back," said Sona, wearing a faint smile when she saw the members of her Peerage, the ORC, and Vahn reappear at the same positions they had departed from.
"Thank you for coming to meet us, Sona. Did you encounter any issues while we were away...?" asked Rias, crossing her arms and reciprocating with a broad smile of her own.
"Before that..." said Sona, shifting her violet-eyed gaze to her Peerage as she instructed, "Saji, Tsubasa, Tomoe, Reya, Ruruko. Return and get some rest. We are responsible for hosting and helping to maintain the barrier for tonight's Rating Game, so I need everyone in peak condition. I will check your progress individually later."