Chapter:6 Building the foundation of Power

Raizer Phoenix stood on the balcony of his family's sprawling estate, gazing out at the fiery skies of the underworld. The battle with Garp had been a defining moment in his life, earning him respect and fear from his family and peers. Yet, even as his body healed and his name began to carry weight within the Phoenix Clan, Raizer found himself looking beyond the accolades.

Strength alone wasn't enough—not in a world driven by power, politics, and influence.

If he wanted to achieve his ultimate goals, Raizer needed something more: a foundation strong enough to support his ambitions. He didn't just want to be another noble of the Phoenix Clan, nor was he content to live in the shadow of his siblings. He wanted to build something that was truly his own—a legacy that would outshine even his family's illustrious name.

The answer was clear.

Business.

The Vision

Raizer's mind raced with possibilities as he began to outline his vision. The supernatural world was vast, with devils, fallen angels, angels, and other mythological beings constantly vying for power and resources. Yet, despite their influence, most factions were entrenched in old traditions, resistant to innovation.

Raizer wanted to change that.

First, he would establish a business empire centered around the entertainment industry. The underworld, despite its grandeur, lacked vibrant culture and widespread connectivity. Devils craved luxury, indulgence, and spectacle—Raizer would give it to them.

Second, he would create an interdimensional trading network. Through this, he could establish economic ties with other supernatural entities, fostering alliances and expanding his influence. The underworld's current trade system was heavily restricted, monopolized by a handful of devil houses. Raizer's business would disrupt that, opening new channels for commerce and cooperation.

These enterprises would not only make him one of the wealthiest devils in existence but also lay the groundwork for future political power.

The First Step: Pitching the Idea

Raizer knew he couldn't accomplish his goals alone. He needed investors, advisors, and allies. And that meant convincing his family to support his vision.

Gathering his family in the grand hall of the estate was no small task, but Raizer managed to do it. Lord Phoenix and Lady Phoenix sat at the head of the table, their golden eyes watching him intently. Ruval leaned back in his chair, his expression a mix of curiosity and skepticism. Ravel sat beside him, her sharp gaze fixed on Raizer.

Raizer stood confidently at the center of the room, his voice steady as he addressed them.

"I've returned to the family after six years of training and growth," he began. "But I didn't come back just to rest on my laurels. I have a vision for the future—one that will elevate the Phoenix name to even greater heights."

Ruval smirked. "And what grand vision is that, little brother?"

Raizer met his gaze evenly. "I'm going to build a business empire. One that spans the underworld and beyond, dominating the entertainment industry and creating new trade networks with other supernatural factions."

The room was silent for a moment. Then, Ravel spoke, her tone laced with skepticism. "Entertainment and trade? That doesn't exactly sound like the work of a devil noble."

Raizer's lips twitched into a small smile. "That's because most devils lack foresight. Strength is important, but strength without resources and influence is meaningless. If we want to secure the Phoenix Clan's position for generations to come, we need more than power—we need control over the things everyone values."

Lady Phoenix leaned forward, her expression thoughtful. "And what exactly do you propose?"

Raizer outlined his plan.

"First, I'll establish a series of high-end entertainment venues—luxury theaters, casinos, and performance arenas. They'll cater not just to devils but to fallen angels, humans, and other supernatural beings.

"Second, I'll create a trading company that operates independently of the current devil houses' monopoly. This company will deal in rare goods, artifacts, and services, using my own channels to bypass traditional restrictions.

"Finally, these ventures will generate enough wealth and influence to support a peerage and, eventually, establish myself as the head of a new devil house—or even one of the Four Devil Lords."

Convincing the Skeptics

Ruval crossed his arms, his tone dismissive. "It's an ambitious plan, I'll give you that. But do you really think you can pull it off? The established houses won't take kindly to you disrupting their systems."

Raizer met his brother's gaze, his voice firm. "I'm not afraid of competition. And unlike the established houses, I'm not bound by tradition. I'll do whatever it takes to succeed."

Ravel raised an eyebrow. "And where do you plan to get the resources for all this? Starting a business empire isn't cheap."

Raizer smirked. "I've already thought of that. My winnings from tournaments and challenges over the past six years have been carefully saved. I've also acquired rare items through my travels—items that can be sold or used as leverage to secure funding.

"But most importantly, I'm asking for the family's support. If you invest in me now, the returns will be exponential."

Lord Phoenix, who had been silent until now, finally spoke. "And why should we believe you can succeed, Raizer? This is no small undertaking. Failure could damage the Phoenix name."

Raizer stepped forward, his golden eyes blazing with determination. "Because I've already proven myself. I've fought Garp and survived. I've trained harder than anyone in this family and come back stronger than ever.

"If you give me this chance, I'll make the Phoenix name synonymous with wealth and influence beyond imagination. But if you don't…" He paused, his voice dropping to a steely tone. "Then I'll do it on my own. And when I succeed, you'll regret not being part of it."

A Family Divided

The room fell silent again as his words hung in the air.

Lady Phoenix was the first to speak. "You have your father's stubbornness," she said, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Very well, Raizer. You'll have my support—for now. But know this: if you fail, the consequences will be yours alone."

Ravel sighed, crossing her arms. "You're insane, Raizer. But I'll admit, it's an interesting idea. If nothing else, it'll be fun to watch you try."

Ruval shrugged. "Do what you want. Just don't drag the rest of us into your mess."

Lord Phoenix studied his son for a long moment before nodding. "Very well. You have my permission to pursue this endeavor. But remember: the Phoenix name is not a tool for your ambition. If you tarnish it, there will be no forgiveness."

Raizer nodded, his heart pounding with a mix of relief and excitement. "Thank you. I won't let you down."

Laying the Groundwork

With his family's reluctant approval, Raizer set to work. He poured his energy into designing the blueprint for his empire, using everything he had learned during his travels and training to ensure its success.

The first step was establishing a name for his ventures. He chose Phoenix Star Enterprises, a name that symbolized rebirth and ambition.

Next came recruitment. Raizer reached out to individuals he had met during his travels—merchants, performers, and skilled artisans from various supernatural factions. Many were drawn to his charisma and vision, eager to be part of something new and revolutionary.

Finally, Raizer used his winnings and rare items to secure prime locations for his first entertainment venues. These establishments, designed with luxury and spectacle in mind, quickly became the talk of the underworld.

A First Success

Within months, Phoenix Star Enterprises was thriving. Raizer's first casino and performance arena, located in one of the busiest cities in the underworld, drew crowds from all factions. Devils, fallen angels, and even humans came to experience the lavish entertainment and unmatched hospitality.

The revenue poured in, and Raizer reinvested it into expanding his operations. He opened trading outposts in key locations, establishing his interdimensional network. Rare goods and artifacts flowed through his channels, earning him the attention—and envy—of the established devil houses.

But Raizer didn't stop there. He used his growing wealth to purchase enchanted equipment, secure powerful allies, and plan for the future.

The Phoenix Rises

By the end of the year, Raizer's name was known throughout the underworld—not just as a member of the Phoenix Clan but as a rising star in his own right. His family watched with a mix of pride and caution, realizing that Raizer was no longer the boy they once underestimated.

Raizer stood in his office, overlooking the bustling streets below. The sound of laughter and music drifted up from the casino floor, a reminder of how far he had come.

But this was only the beginning.

He clenched his fists, his golden flames flickering faintly around him.

"This is my path," he murmured. "And I'll see it through to the end."

This concludes Chapter 6, focusing on Raizer's decision to create a business empire and the steps he takes to establish Phoenix Star Enterprises. Let me know if you'd like further expansions or adjustments!