The weeks stretched on, and Ryo's training sessions became more intense. Sarcasm turned into a staple, a necessary spice for every lesson, but under the surface, a fierce commitment drove him. He couldn't deny that seeing Issei and the others push themselves to improve made him feel a rare pride. Ryo was molding them, in his own way, into something more resilient and ready for the trials that awaited.
One Evening
The moon hung low, casting a cool glow over the deserted training ground. Ryo found himself alone, surveying the place where he had spent countless hours teaching, pushing, and learning himself. He leaned against a tree, a thoughtful look in his eyes as he considered the imminent battle with Riser.
"Think you're ready to face him?"
Ryo turned his head to see Ophis, her expression unreadable as she regarded him in the pale moonlight.
"Ready as I'll ever be," he replied with a smirk, though his gaze held a hint of seriousness. "Riser's strong, but he underestimates all of us. That's his first mistake."
Ophis gave a small nod, her eyes shifting to the training grounds, almost as if she could see the memories Ryo had imprinted there. "Do you think Issei is ready?"
Ryo shrugged, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face. "Issei's still clumsy. Still learning. But he has something Riser doesn't—a reason to fight. And with a little more sarcasm... well, let's just say he'll surprise everyone."
Ophis seemed to consider this, a rare smile gracing her usually stoic face. "If he has your determination, he might stand a chance."
"Oh, he has it. Especially after all the push-ups and taunting." Ryo's smirk widened. "But, I'll make sure he's ready. I have a feeling our dear Riser's ego will take a hit soon."
Ophis chuckled softly, surprising Ryo. "I'll hold you to that, then."
Time skip to the Day of the Challenge
The air was tense with anticipation. Riser's forces were gathered, a smug grin plastered across his face as he surveyed his opponents.
Ryo stood beside Issei, Sona, and Ophis, arms crossed and expression defiant. As Riser strutted forward, he smirked at Issei, as if sizing up his prey.
"Ready to fall?" Riser sneered.
Issei clenched his fists, a flash of doubt crossing his face before he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned to see Ryo, who gave him a nod of encouragement.
"Just remember, Issei," Ryo said, voice dripping with sarcasm, "if he talks too much, he's compensating for something. Focus on that, and you'll be fine."
Issei couldn't help but chuckle, his confidence bolstered by Ryo's words. "Got it."
As the battle began, Ryo watched closely, his gaze sharp and analytical. Every time Riser threw a punch or unleashed a fire attack, Issei countered, dodging and weaving in a way that spoke of weeks of relentless training.
At one point, Riser lunged forward, his fist blazing with power, aiming to knock Issei down. But Issei sidestepped, landing a quick punch that sent Riser stumbling back.
"Not bad," Ryo muttered to himself, pride welling up as he saw his student hold his ground. "He's actually starting to use his head."
The fight continued, with Issei taking hit after hit, but refusing to back down. Every time he faltered, he remembered Ryo's biting words of encouragement, pushing him to dig deeper.
Ryo stepped forward, arms crossed, his voice loud enough to reach both Issei and Riser. "Is that all you've got, Riser? You talk a big game, but your moves… well, they're a bit predictable."
Riser snarled, throwing a deadly glare at Ryo. "Careful, Uchiha. You might be next."
Ryo's smirk only widened. "Oh, please. Let's face it—you're not even in my league."
With a final burst of energy, Issei unleashed a powerful attack, breaking through Riser's defenses. The battlefield fell silent as Riser staggered back, disbelief etched on his face.
Sona and Ophis exchanged triumphant glances, their smiles mirroring the confidence that Ryo had instilled in all of them.
Ryo walked over to Issei, clapping a hand on his back. "Well done, Issei. That's how you shut someone up—efficient and satisfying."
Issei beamed, breathing hard but clearly exhilarated. "Thanks, Ryo. Couldn't have done it without your… special teaching style."
"Anytime, kid," Ryo replied with a smirk. "Now let's head back. I've got some new ideas for training, and trust me, they're going to be even worse than this."
As they left the field, Ryo felt an undeniable sense of purpose, knowing that his sarcastic mentorship had paid off. He had helped shape a fighter, and together, they were ready to face whatever challenges the future held