GHK DXD Chapter 15 Asia’s Introduction (Patreon)

Hyoudou Hidden Castle

The afternoon sunlight streamed gently through the towering stained-glass windows, painting soft mosaics across the polished floors. The halls were quiet, most of the household either training, resting, or working—but in the vast castle kitchen, a very different sort of energy simmered.

Raynare and Kalawarna moved with practiced efficiency, sleeves rolled up, as they chopped vegetables, stirred pots, and organized cookware. And standing between the two Fallen Angels was a small, nervous blonde girl in a green nun’s habit.

Asia Argento’s eyes were wide, green and earnest, fluttering between awe and timid confusion. She clutched the hem of her sleeve anxiously but tried her best to look attentive.

Raynare pulled the wooden spoon from the boiling pot and pointed it at her like a baton. “Alright, Asia. Since we, uh… smuggled you in successfully without being detected by anyone…” She coughed into her fist. “We’re going to go over your new duties.”

Kalawarna nodded primly, hands on her hips. “You’ll be working as a maid. That means cleaning the halls, washing dishes, doing laundry, preparing meals, organizing rooms, dusting shelves—"

“And most importantly,” Raynare added, eyes narrowing with faux-seriousness, “staying out of the way when the mistresses are arguing.”

Asia blinked. “A… argument…?”

Both Fallen Angels shared a long, hollow stare of trauma. Back in the present, Raynare sniffed. “…It happens.”

Kalawarna cleared her throat. “Anyway. Do you have any questions before we begin?”

Asia clasped her hands together, bowing slightly. “N-No, I understand. And… and thank you, Raynare-san… Kalawarna-san…” Her voice trembled with emotion. “For giving me a place to stay. I… I don’t have anywhere else to go after being excommunicated. And I’ve never been a maid before but… I will work very hard. I promise.” Her sincerity hit them like a punch to the chest.

For a moment, both Fallen Angels froze as memories rose unbidden. The plan…to steal Twilight Healing and then dispose of the girl afterward. And then how Evangeline rewrote them. Reforging their wills and making them… better.

Raynare looked away first, her jaw tightening. Kalawarna’s eyes softened, guilt swirling under her calm expression.

“…Tch. You really know how to stab someone in the heart, don’t you?” Raynare muttered.

Asia panicked. “Eh?! D-Did I do something wrong?!”

“No, no,” Kalawarna said quickly, resting a gentle hand on the girl’s head. “You’re doing fine. Really.”

Raynare exhaled slowly. “Listen, Asia… you don’t need to be perfect. If you make mistakes, it’s fine. That’s why we’re here—to teach you. And… eventually… we’ll introduce you to the master and the mistresses.”

Asia tilted her head, innocent confusion blooming on her face. “Master? Mistresses? I… I don’t understand.”

The Fallen Angels glanced at one another.

Raynare spoke first, leaning down slightly so she was eye-level with the former nun. “The old church is currently under new management and after remodeling, the place was turned into a castle that belongs to our master. His name is Issei Hyoudou.”

Kalawarna continued, voice smooth. “And he has… several wives.”

Asia’s eyes widened into perfect circles, her face turning bright pink. “W-W-W-WIVES? M-Multiple?!”

Raynare crossed her arms. “Yup. And each one is… unique.”

Kalawarna shuddered visibly. “Some more terrifying than others.”

Asia swallowed nervously. “W-Will they… be okay with me being here?”

Raynare sighed. “Honestly? The kind ones will accept you immediately. The others… may require time.”

A cold chill ran up both their spines. As they imagined what Lady Evangeline, Lady Karura and Lady Kaguya would do to the girl and then them for hiding her.

Raynare whispered, “I don’t want to be flash-frozen for hiding you…”

Kalawarna whispered back, “Or electrocuted…”

Asia’s hands fidgeted. “I didn’t mean to cause trouble…”

Raynare immediately shook her head. “You didn’t. This is our problem ad you’re under our care now.” 

Kalawarna nodded firmly. “We’ll protect you until Master Issei returns. Once he’s here, we’ll present you properly.”

Asia smiled, a soft, relieved, grateful smile that made their guilt deepen. “Thank you… both of you.”

Raynare rubbed her temple. “Stop being cute, please. It makes me feel worse.”

Kalawarna clapped her hands. “Right! Let’s start teaching you how to chop vegetables.”

Asia nodded earnestly. “Y-Yes!”

Raynare passed her an apron. “We’re cooking for fourteen people, so—”

A faint tap tap tap echoed behind them.

Raynare froze, Kalawarna froze and Asia blinked.

A presence, quiet and eerie filled the air. Both Fallen Angels felt a chill crawl down their spines. Slowly, very slowly, they turned around. And there she was, Shiraori.

Standing directly behind them, white hair cascading like snow, red eyes unblinking, expression unreadable. Her posture was relaxed…but her gaze produced pure intensity.

Raynare squeaked and Kalawarna dropped her spoon.

Asia gasped softly, unsure what she should do.

Shiraori leaned forward slightly. Her red eyes studied Asia from head to toe. ‘Ehhh! She’s new. Plus she’s adorable.’

Raynare stammered, “L-L-Lady Shiraori! U-Um, good afternoon—”

Kalawarna bowed so fast she nearly head-butted the counter. “We weren’t hiding anything! Well, we WERE, but not from you—”

Asia shivered. “…E-Excuse me… who… who is this…?”

Shiraori blinked once. Then twice. Then her gaze then slid to Raynare and Kalawarna as it demanded them to explain.

Both Fallen Angels screamed internally.

Raynare leaned toward Kalawarna. “We’re so dead.”

Kalawarna whispered back, “How did she know?” Hiding by a corner on the roof was a small white spider with red eyes.

Shiraori’s head tilted slowly, like an owl analyzing prey.

Asia clutched her hands nervously.

Raynare inhaled sharply, placing herself in front of Asia as if shielding her from a predator. “O-Okay! Lady Shiraori! We can explain! Completely! Perfectly!”

Kalawarna nodded frantically. “We found her outside looking for a job! She looked harmless! And we thought—maybe—we should keep her safe until Master returns!”

 “And also she would be a good maid,” Raynare added weakly.

‘A new maid? She’ll need a cute dress?’ Shiraori’s eyes glowed faintly. For a moment, silence.

Raynare held her breath.

Kalawarna trembled.

Asia looked like she might faint.

Then Shiraori glanced at Asia again. Her head tilted.

Then she lifted a pale hand and gently patted Asia on the head.

Asia froze.

Raynare and Kalawarna froze.

Shiraori nodded once—decisively.

Asia blinked rapidly. “O… okay…?”

Shiraori simply walked past them and went to her room to start making Asia’s uniform.

Raynare nearly collapsed. “I think I aged ten years—”

Kalawarna wiped sweat from her brow. “That could’ve gone so much worse—”

Asia smiled nervously. “…She’s… um… very quiet.”

Raynare exhaled. “Asia…welcome to the craziest household on Earth.”

Kalawarna nodded solemnly, patting Asia’s shoulder. “You’ll fit right in.”

—---------------------------------------------

Kuoh Academy, After School

The final bell rang through the halls of Kuoh Academy. Chairs scraped, bags rustled, and chatter filled the classroom as everyone began packing to head home or begin their club activities.

Issei slid his notebook into his bag, stretching his arms with a relieved sigh. ‘Finally… time to get back and tell the girls the news. They must be bored waiting. And—oh crap, I hope they didn’t burn the castle down.’

He’d barely taken two steps when two shadows blocked his path.

“Isseiiii~!!!”

Motohama and Matsuda appeared on either side of him like gremlins. Matsuda crossed his arms dramatically. “We, the gentlemen of culture, have decided something important.”

Motohama pushed up his glasses, the lenses flashing ominously. “As brothers, it is our duty to guide you. To nurture you. To support you in the way only true men can.”

“Uh…” Issei blinked. “Why does this sound like trouble?”

The two leaned in. “Let’s go watch porn.” they said in perfect unison.

Issei’s soul left his body. “Absolutely not!” He waved his hands wildly. “I don’t have time, I have to head home.”

“HOME?!” Matsuda grabbed him by the shoulders as if betrayed. “Don’t tell me… don’t tell me you’re ditching us for your GIRLFRIEND!”

Motohama jabbed a finger into Issei’s chest. “Ever since that silver-haired girl showed up, you’ve changed! You’ve abandoned the brotherhood! You’ve become—” His voice trembled in outrage. “—a f-f-fucking normie!”

“Yeah!” Matsuda sniffed. “We lost you, man! You were supposed to be one of US!”

Issei sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. “I swear it’s not like that. I just really, REALLY have things to do. Important things.”

Motohama squinted. “More important than porn?”

“Yes!”

Both boys gasped.

Matsuda staggered as if shot. “Issei… you’ve changed, man…”

Issei was about to walk around them—but then he paused. And an evil smirk crept across his lips. “…Besides,” He said, leaning in conspiratorially, “both of you will never understand the glory and joy… the heavenly softness… the divine warmth… of actual oppai.”

Silence.

Motohama and Matsuda’s brains glitched. Then—

“YOU BASTARD!”

“YOU TRAITOR!”

“YOU DAMN LUCKY SON OF A—!!”

They began shaking him violently, tears streaming down their faces.

“HOW DARE YOU TOUCH OPPAI BEFORE US!”

“WE WERE SUPPOSED TO ASCEND TOGETHER!”

Students passing by stared. A few sighed, used to this trio’s antics. A few girls whispered and glared. A few boys muttered prayers of jealousy.

Issei finally pried them off and patted their backs. “I’ll hang out with you guys next time, okay? Promise.”

“Sniff… y-you swear?” Motohama asked, voice wobbly.

“On the Holy Oppai,” Issei said solemnly.

Matsuda wiped his tears with his sleeve. “Fine… but next time we’re going to the good store.”

“The one with the older-sister section?” Motohama asked.

“Of course.”

They nodded in approval, satisfied.

Issei slung his bag over his shoulder and walked toward the school gates, waving behind him. “See you guys tomorrow!”

The duo watched him leave with the tragic dignity of men who had lost a comrade to happiness.

“…He really became a normie,” Matsuda whispered.

“Yeah…” Motohama sniffed. “I’m proud of him. But also… I fucking hate him.”

Meanwhile, Issei stepped out into the afternoon sun, unaware of their emotional meltdown behind him.

He exhaled deeply. ‘Alright. Time to get home. The girls probably have some new chaos waiting for me.’

With that thought, he started heading toward the Hidden Castle.

—-----------------------------------

The old abandoned church came into view as Issei stepped off the road. From the outside, it looked just as eerily decrepit as ever, cracked stone, rusted iron cross, broken windows…

But Issei knew better. He pushed open the heavy wooden doors.

A soft pulse rolled through the air and instantly, the world peeled away.

The ruined chapel melted into a sweeping, radiant hall of polished stone and shimmering candles. The scent of fresh lavender drifted through the magically reinforced air, and distant murmurs echoed from deeper within.

Issei let out a low whistle. “Man… I’ll never get tired of that transformation. Evangeline really went all out with this place.” He stepped forward, his shoes clicking against the floor, as he scanned the hall.

‘Huh. Weird. I though that one of the girls would instantly be here to greet me… Nyaruko? Run? Lala’s floating head?’

He continued through the castle, following the familiar halls lined with rich curtains, ornate vases, and shimmering enchantment threads woven by Shiraori. It was peaceful—almost too peaceful.

Then he reached the throne room and he blinked.

There, sitting cross-legged on the massive silk-covered throne, was Shiraori.

Her white hair draped over her shoulders, red eyes focused with terrifying intensity. Floating around her were dozens of shimmering silk threads, needles moving automatically, materials shifting in midair.

She didn’t even look up at first. Her many parallel minds were fully engaged.

Issei took a hesitant step closer. “…Uh, Shiraori?”

She froze and her head snapped up instantly, eyes locking on him with laser precision. Then, with surprising speed, she held up something in both hands:

A perfectly sewn maid uniform, identical in style to Raynare and Kalawarna’s… Except much smaller.

Issei blinked again. “Oh. That’s… adorable.”

Shiraori’s expression remained unreadable, but her hands lifted the uniform a little higher, practically demanding his approval.

He couldn’t help but smile. “Looks great! Seriously amazing work. But, uh…” He tilted his head, analyzing the size. “…that’s way too small for Raynare or Kalawarna.”

Shiraori puffed her cheeks ever so slightly, her version of a pout and shook her head in the negative.

Issei rubbed his chin. “Hmm… okay, maybe for Run? No wait, she's a bit taller. Yukina? But even she’d need a bit more width…”

Shiraori shook her head again, more forcefully this time.

“...Not Yukina?”

She shook her head rapidly.

“Nyaruko?”

Violent head shake.

“Evangeline—no wait, she’d bite my head off if I suggested that…”

Shiraori deadpanned.

“Right, okay… then who?”

Shiraori lifted her hands and began miming.

First she pointed downward. Then she made a tiny silhouette shape with her fingers. Then she mimed brushing hair… Then clasping hands in prayer… Then made a small sparkle gesture in the air.

Issei stared blankly. “…Shiraori, I mostly understand you, but you lost me at ‘sparkle gesture.’ Who is this uniform for…?”

Shiraori sighed so softly it was almost inaudible. But then she repeated the sequence slowly. Tiny person. Prayer hands. Sparkly aura.

Issei’s eyebrows furrowed. ‘Prayer… aura… small… sparkly…’

“A new maid,” She added simply in the softest whisper, barely audible but clear enough.

“…A new… what?”

But before Shiraori could mime again—

“DARLING!!!”

“ISSEI!!!”

A pair of blurs shot in from the hallway.

Issei barely had time to react before Nyaruko launched herself at him like a missile, wrapping her arms around his torso.

Run slid in a second later, wrapping herself around his other side in a much gentler—but just as possessive—hug.

“Darling’s home!!” Nyaruko cried, rubbing her cheek against his. “I missed you soooo much!”

Run pressed against his other shoulder, her voice soft but warm. “Welcome home, Issei… How was school.”

Issei laughed, arms instinctively coming up to steady them both. “Hey, hey! Calm down, you two. I just got back.”

Nyaruko shook her head rapidly. “Nope! Darling’s cuddles are necessary! Mandatory! Legally required!”

Run smiled sweetly. “I agree. We should start a welcoming committee. One that waits at the door.”

Issei’s brain melted pleasantly under the double affection.

Behind them, Shiraori glared blankly at the interruption.

Issei, suddenly lost in cuddles, blinked. ‘Wait… what was I asking again? Something about… a new… uniform? New maid?’

But Nyaruko tightened her hug, effectively crushing all rational thought. “Darling, guess what, guess what~!” Nyaruko chimed.

Run pouted. “Hey, I wanted to tell him first—”

Issei smiled helplessly, any questions he had instantly slipping into the abyss.

“Alright, alright! I’m listening.”

And just like that the mystery of the “new maid” vanished from his mind. At least for now.

Shiraori, however, lowered the completed uniform into her lap… staring at Issei intently. ‘You will understand soon.’

—------------------------------------

The dining hall of the Hidden Castle buzzed with soft conversation and the clinking of dishes. Sunlight filtered through the enchanted stained-glass windows, painting warm colors across the long table where everyone had gathered. It was one of the rare moments when nearly all the girls were seated together, waiting for lunch before embarking on their next adventure as the new summons will be meeting Issei’s parents and then a tour of the town.

Issei sat at the center as usual, surrounded by multiple personalities, and varying degrees of chaos. He inhaled deeply, mentally preparing. ‘There shouldn’t be any trouble?’ He swallowed hard. ‘…Right?’ He pushed the thought aside and cleared his throat. “Okay, everyone. Before we eat, I’ve got some updates.”

Multiple eyes turned toward him. Nyaruko looked practically vibrating with anticipation. Run leaned forward, hair shimmering like emerald silk. Karura rested her chin on her hand, calm but observant. Henrietta’s expression was gentle, interested and Yukina sat quietly beside Issei, hands folded tightly in her lap.

Issei smiled encouragingly at her. “So, first thing, I told Sona of who will be enrolling and you all are officially going to school by next week.”

Nyaruko let out an unholy squeal that echoed off every wall and slammed both hands onto the table with stars in her eyes. “THIS IS IT! My high school romance arc begins now! School dates! Lunch breaks together! Walking home hand in hand! Kyaaah~!”

Henrietta laughed softly. “Calm down, Nyaruko. You’re going to scare the teachers before you even arrive.”

Nyaruko puffed out her cheeks. “They must learn to accept love in its purest form!”

Karura snorted. “Or they’ll simply expel you on day one.”

Nyaruko hissed like a feral cat.

Meanwhile, Yukina gently tugged on Issei’s sleeve, seated quietly beside Henrietta and Issei. “Um… I-Issei? she asked softly, eyes wide and uncertain. “Will it… be okay for me to go? And… will your parents… like me?” Her ears lowered timidly like a frightened kitten.

Issei felt his heart melt. He reached over and gently patted her head. “Yukina, trust me. You’ll have nothing to worry about. A cute girl like you? My parents are going to adore you. Honestly, they’ll probably try to adopt you. The same can be said with everyone at school.”

Yukina’s cheeks flushed pink. She nodded shyly, visibly relaxing.

Across the table, the other girls reacted in various ways with Nyaruko pouting aggressively as if it should be her sitting next to him and be getting petted on the head. Run was no better as she also wanted the same treatment.

Henrietta giggled softly and patted her on the back, whispering, “You’ll be fine. Issei believes in you.”

Yukina nearly melted on the spot.

Run leaned forward with her charm, cheeks warm with anticipation. “Issei, what are your parents like? I want to make a good impression…”

Issei paused to think. “Hm… Well, they’re pretty normal. But they’re really caring, and they’ll definitely be excited to meet all of you.”

Run smiled sweetly. “Then I’ll do my best.”

Issei then turned toward the more dangerous members of the group. “Lala, Karura, please don’t scare my parents. They’re normal humans.”

Karura noticed and arched his brow. “I understand Lala but why am I singled out?”

Issei coughed. “Well, uh… you two are the most likely to… accidentally traumatize them.”

Karura leaned back, crossing her arms. “…What part of me is scary?”

Evangeline smirked wickedly. “Your mere existence.”

“Evangeline.”

“Just telling the truth.”

“Understood, I’ll stay in my human form the whole time.” Lala said with a bored expression as her head was resting on the table.

Issei placed a hand over his heart. “Thank you. Seriously.”

Then Furina tapped the table impatiently.

“So after this whole ‘meeting the parents’ ordeal, can we PLEASE go somewhere interesting? I’ve been so bored I’m starting to talk to myself more than usual.”

Run muttered, “That’s… concerning.”

Evangeline added, “That’s also extremely normal for her.”

Issei chuckled. “Yeah, after visiting my parents, I’ll show everyone around town. There are some places you’ll enjoy for sure. And I need to pick up a few items from home for you girls too.”

“What items?” Priscilla asked curiously.

“Just some things I think everyone will like,” He replied with a playful grin.

Before anyone could press for details, the dining hall doors creaked open. Raynare and Kalawarna stepped inside carrying trays of food. And both looked… nervous. Really nervous.

Raynare twitched beneath her maid uniform. Kalawarna’s eyes darted around like she was expecting a magical guillotine to drop from the ceiling.

Issei blinked. “Oh hey, Raynare, Kalawarna! Perfect timing. We’re all hun—” He stopped mid-sentence.

Kaguya’s eyes narrowed dangerously. Henrietta straightened at once, gaze sharpening. Karura tapped her fingers against the table, her interest piqued.

And Evangeline… She leaned back in her chair, one leg crossed over the other, a smirk forming. “Well, well,” Evangeline purred. “You two look like cats that swallowed a canary. Or two canaries. Or possibly an entire nest.”

Raynare and Kalawarna froze.

Nyaruko squinted. “They’re hiding something!”

Run nodded. “Yep. I can tell.”

Yukina whispered, “Um… I-I think they’re scared…”

Issei tilted his head innocently. “Hey, is something wrong? You two okay?”

Evangeline’s eyes gleamed as she pointed a finger at the trembling pair. “You’d better not be hiding something from your betters.” Her tone sliced through the air like a knife.

Raynare and Kalawarna trembled so hard the spoons on their tray rattled.

Raynare stammered, “L-Lady Evangeline, w-we—uh—well—”

Kalawarna bowed her head. “W-We can explain! Please don’t—!”

Issei raised his hands in a calming gesture. “Guys, relax. I’m sure they’ll tell us. Just… let them talk.”

Most of the girls reluctantly backed down.

But Evangeline’s glare remained sharp. And the two Fallen Angels exchanged a look of pure panic.

Raynare inhaled deeply, bracing herself. “W-We do have something to say,” she whispered.

The entire table leaned forward.

Issei blinked innocently. ‘I wonder what’s going on…?’

Raynare’s mouth opened.

Kalawarna’s legs shook.

And then. “We have someone we would like to introduce.”

Everyone stared at Raynare and Kalawarna, the two ex-Fallen Angels trembling so visibly that even the utensils on their trays rattled.

Henrietta set down her tea, expression tightening. Kaguya’s face was hidden behind aristocratic suspicion. Karura leaned back in her seat, one golden eye narrowing. Evangeline’s gaze sharpened like a predator ready to strike.

Issei blinked, completely oblivious to the incoming storm. ‘Okay… that was dramatic. Who do they want to introduce? Don’t tell me they adopted a lost puppy—.’

Raynare bowed deeply, voice cracking. “W-We have someone we would like to introduce…”

Kalawarna echoed her with a shaky nod. “We… we ask that everyone remain calm.”

That was the wrong thing to say.

Nyaruko instantly jumped onto her chair. “CALM?! What did you do?! Did you bring someone  here without Darling’s permission? Did you bring a man?! DO I HAVE TO START KILLING?!”

Kaguya sighed. “Nyaruko, for heaven’s sake, sit down.”

Priscilla simply sipped her tea. “I sense nervous guilt, why?”

Shiraori peered from behind Issei, already knowing exactly what was about to happen, her expression as blank as ever.

Raynare inhaled sharply. “Asia! You can come in!”

The doors creaked open and soft footsteps approached as a blond Italian entered the dining hall wearing the maid uniform Shiraori made for her. The uniform fit her perfectly: short sleeves, a frilled apron, a light green ribbon at the neckline to match her eyes. Her blonde hair swayed gently with each anxious step, her cheeks flushed pink.

She clasped her hands together nervously. “H-Hello…!” she said in a tiny voice.

The room froze.For ten seconds, nobody spoke.

Then chaos. Immediate chaos.

Nyaruko shrieked. “WHO IS THIS TINY ADORABLE CREATURE?!”

Run gasped. “She’s… cute. Cuter than me. She must be destroyed!”

Karura raised an eyebrow. “She looks fragile enough that wind could blow her away.”

Kaguya’s nostrils flared. “Why is she wearing a maid uniform?! Are we hiring staff now?”

Evangeline slammed her hands on the table. “YOU TWO BETTER START TALKING RIGHT NOW.”

Issei, meanwhile, stared at Asia in utter confusion. “…Wait. Who is this? And why is she here? Please tell me you guys didn’t kidnap her.”

Asia blinked. Then she panicked. “I-Io… mi chiamo Asia Argento!” she blurted out rapidly in Italian. "È un piacere conoscervi tutti! Per favore, non arrabbiatevi con i miei superiori...!"

Issei froze. “…What?”

Asia blinked at him, repeating nervously, “Sono molto grata di essere qui…”

Issei leaned back in his chair. “…Okay. Guys I don’t understand her, what’s she saying?”

The girls stared at him.

Henrietta covered her mouth politely. “Um… Issei. You don’t understand her?”

Karura blinked. “Really? She sounds japanese to me”

Issei threw his hands up. “What? She is clearly speaking a foreign language!”

Evangeline let out the hum of interest. As she has become fluent in many languages, in her ears the language is coming out in English. “I believe that the system has summoned us with built-in magical translators.”

Issei choked. “Wait, WHAT?!”

“Just wait a bit.” Evangeline flicked her fingers, casting a spell around him. A soft ripple of magic washed over his ears and mind. “There,” she muttered. “Now try listening again.”

Asia fidgeted shyly. “Um… m-my name is Asia Argento… Thank you very much for allowing me to stay…”

Issei blinked. “Ohhhh. So THAT’S what she was saying. Great. Now I just look stupid.”

Evangeline then patted his shoulder. “You always look stupid, boy.”

“HEY!”

Evangeline then glared at the two maids and snapped her fingers. “All right, explain yourselves. NOW.”

Raynare and Kalawarna looked at each other. Then at the glaring women. Then at Issei.

Kalawarna whispered, “Asia, could you step outside for a moment?”

Asia nodded obediently. “O-Of course…”

She bowed politely and left the room, closing the door behind her.

The moment she was gone, Raynare and Kalawarna fell to their knees and both bowed deeply. “Master Issei… everyone… there is something you must know.”

The room went still.

Raynare swallowed. “Before we were defeated by you… before Lady Evangeline reprogrammed us… we had a plan.”

Kalawarna continued, voice trembling. “A cruel plan. To take that girl with a very rare healing Sacred Gear. Asia Argento. After she was excommunicated from the church, we planned to lure her here…”

“…and extract her Sacred Gear,” Raynare finished, voice tight with guilt. “Even if it killed her.”

Gasps erupted around the room.

Nyaruko stumbled backward. “You WHAT?!”

Yukina covered her mouth in horror.

Henrietta paled.

Karura’s eye twitched. “You intended to harm a girl like THAT?”

Kaguya stood up sharply. “Unforgivable.”

Even Lala, who usually didn’ t mind people dying considering her purpose as a Dullahan, looked horrified. “That’s… awful.”

Evangeline said nothing. But her eyes were cold.

Issei… felt his stomach drop. “…You… were planning to kill her?” he whispered.

Raynare bowed her head so low her forehead touched the floor. “We accept any punishment,” she whispered. “But Asia was already coming here before everything happened. And after the battle… and after our reprogramming… we forgot.”

Kalawarna nodded. “When she showed up today… We remembered everything. And we hated ourselves for it.”

Raynare looked up, eyes shining with guilt. “That’s why we beg you… Master Issei… please let her stay. She has nowhere else to go. She’s alone. And we will take full responsibility for her. We will teach her. Protect her. Guide her. Please.”

The hall fell silent.

Issei exhaled deeply… feeling the weight of the decision. He stood slowly. “…Well… in good faith, I can’t abandon someone who needs help,” he said quietly. “So yeah. She can stay. And she doesn’t need to be a maid if she doesn’t want—”

Kaguya immediately rose to her feet. “Absolutly not.”

Issei blinked. “Huh?”

Kaguya pointed at him with a glare. “If she is to live here, then she must work. We cannot allow more freeloaders to lounge around.”

Half the table recoiled.

“EXCUSE ME?!”  Nyaruko, Run, Lala, Priscilla, and even Yukina shouted at once.

Kaguya ignored them. “This household requires structure. A hierarchy. With Issei and myself at the top. Then the rest of the summons. Then the maids. Then—”

Issei interrupted, sweat pouring down his face. “Kaguya, that’s… really unfair. I don’t want a hierarchy like that. And I’m not forcing anyone to—”

Raynare bowed her head again. “No, Master Issei. It’s fine,” she said gently. “Asia has lost everything. She needs structure. Purpose. Routine. Let her be a maid. Let her find her place through work.”

Kalawarna agreed softly. “We’ll guide her. She’ll thrive with guidance. This will also help her heal.”

The room went quiet.

Issei sighed, frustrated and helpless. “…I really don’t like this,” he muttered. “But fine. If Asia chooses it herself… I won’t argue.”

Raynare and Kalawarna smiled with relieved gratitude.

Kaguya smirked victoriously behind her sleeve.

Nyaruko sulked and groaned. “Urrgh. I hate it whenever Kaguya is correct, It makes her so smug…”

Run crossed her arms. “Same.”

Priscilla shrugged. “As long as she’s treated well.”

Henrietta softened. “We’ll make her feel welcome.”

Issei turned toward the door. “…Okay. Bring her in.”

The doors creaked again as Raynare stepped out into the hall and whispered gently. “Asia, you can come in now.”

Asia straightened, smoothed the frills of her new uniform nervously, and stepped back into the dining hall with tiny, hesitant steps.

She looked like a lamb walking into a den of lions. Except these lions were jealous, territorial, beautiful and extremely judgmental.

“U-Um… hello again…” Asia murmured softly. Her voice was barely above a whisper.

For a moment, no one spoke. Then, Issei smiled and gestured her closer. “Come in, Asia. Don’t worry. Everyone here is… uh… mostly friendly.”

“HEY!” half the table shouted at once. But Issei ignored them.

Asia stood beside Raynare, clutching her skirt nervously. Raynare and Kalawarna stepped behind her protectively.

Nyaruko leaped out of her seat and practically teleported in front of Asia. “Hiiii~! I’m Nyaruko! Special rank: Darling’s number one wife!”

Issei choked while Kaguya and Run scoffed. Asia squeaked in surprise.While Raynare covered her face as Kalawarna sighed.

Nyaruko leaned in until her forehead touched Asia’s. “You are VERY cute. Suspiciously cute. I must keep my eye on you.”

Asia panicked. “I-I’m s-sorry…?!”

Nyaruko softened for a moment, patting Asia’s head. “But don’t worry! If Darling likes you, I like you! Maybe!”

It was then Run turn as she approached elegantly, placing a hand over her chest. “My name is Run. It’s very nice to meet you, Asia.”

Asia bowed deeply. “T-Tanto piacere! I mean… v-very nice to meet you!”

Run smiled… a little too sweetly. “You really are adorable. Almost too adorable…”

Nyaruko hissed. “BACK OFF, RUN. She’s mine to supervise!”

“Eeeeh?!” Asia said as she looked around wondering why they were about to start fighting.

Henrietta stepped forward with gentle grace, offering both hands. “My name is Henrietta de Tristain. And please, don’t be afraid. You’re safe here.”

Asia’s eyes softened. “O-Oh… thank you very much…”

Henrietta gave her a warm smile, instantly earning Asia’s silent trust.

Karura leaned back in her chair, arms crossed, expression unreadable. “So this fragile girl is going to be living with us now?”

Asia trembled.

Karura sighed. “…Relax. I’m not going to hurt you. You’re… harmless.”

Issei frowned. “Karura, tone.”

She shrugged. “Fine. Welcome, Asia.”

Asia nodded nervously.

Then Kaguya rose with elegant majesty as she gave her introduction. “Kaguya Houraisan. Do not be overwhelmed, I am simply the most flawless woman you will ever meet.”

Asia blinked. “E-Eh?”

Kaguya sighed and waved her hand dismissively. “Just do your maid duties properly, and you will not incur my wrath.”

Lala’ body shoved her head in front of Asia causing her to gasp in horror and tremble uncontrollably. While the head spoke out in a monotone voice. “Hello. I’m Lala. Don’t be frightened as your death is still not here yet,”

Asia just continued to stare in horror with Run patting her back. “Don’t worry, she’s a Dullahan. That’s normal.”

“N-Normal?!” She stuttered. 

From further down the table, a chair scraped back with theatrical flair. Furina rose, placing a hand dramatically over her chest as if she were stepping onto a stage. “Ahem. I suppose it is my turn.”

Asia turned her anxious eyes toward her.

Furina swept forward, posture perfect, chin tilted just so. Her aqua eyes studied Asia carefully—first with curiosity, then with a flicker of something like… assessment. “I,” she declared, “am Furina. An unparalleled beauty, a woman of refinement, and frankly the only one here with a proper sense of performance.”

“Not true! I can be very dramatic” Nyaruko says.

“That’s debatable.” Run scoffed.

But Furina ignored them completely.“So, little healer, you’re the new one they brought in, hm?” Her voice dropped its theatrics just a bit. “You look like you’ll blow away in a strong breeze. That’s… inconvenient.”

Asia panicked. “I-I’m sorry…!”

Furina blinked, then scoffed lightly. “I didn’t say it was bad. Just inconvenient. Still…” She tapped her finger against her arm, thinking. “…you’re polite, you look like a lost kitten, and Issei has already decided to protect you, so…” She straightened, turning her face away with a huff. “I suppose I’ll allow you to stay.”

Asia stared. “Y-You… allow me…?”

Furina’s cheeks reddened just a touch.

“D-Don’t twist my words! I’m simply saying that if you’re going to live here, you might as well learn how not to be a helpless mess. So watch carefully, listen to your seniors, and try not to cry too much, alright?”

Henrietta smiled behind her hand. “That’s her way of saying she’ll look out for you.”

Furina spluttered. “I did NOT say that!”

Issei chuckled quietly. 

Asia bowed gratefully. “T-Thank you very much, Furina-san…”

Furina coughed and turned away, waving her hand dismissively. “Hmph. You’d better be grateful.”

Then it was Priscilla's turn, who had been surprisingly quiet as the moment Asia showed herself something inside her stirred that demanded she protect her. It was weird but she didn’t hate the feeling, seeing that the rest were introducing themselves and not wanting to be rude, she quickly stood up. “Welcome, little one. My name is Priscilla. I hope we can get along.”

Asia quickly gave a bow back and said the same. Shiraori then walked forward quietly. Causing Asia to straighten up like a soldier at the girl who gave her the uniform.

When both were in front of each other, Shiraori stared and Asia did the same.

Shiraori then lifted a hand and gently patted Asia on the head again. Then she returned to her seat.

Leaving Asia now both flattered and confused.

But then the cold, elegant, and imposing Evangeline stood from her chair. Her size… did not help her dramatic entrance as she was shorter than Asia.

But Asia still immediately hid behind Raynare, gripping the back of her uniform like it was a shield.

Though this caused Raynare and Kalawarna to stiffened.

Evangeline then stared up at Asia with narrowed blue eyes that felt like they could pierce straight through her soul. “Hmph.” She clicked her tongue in annoyance at the height difference. “So. You are the girl they almost murdered.”

Asia’s entire body locked up. Her eyes went wide like a cornered rabbit. “M-M-M-Murder…?” She whispered, terrified and confused, not understanding.

Raynare and Kalawarna flinched so hard their feathers nearly popped out.

Issei hissed under his breath, “Eva! Not helping!”

Evangeline rolled her eyes dramatically. “Oh please. If she can’t handle a little truth, she’s going to have a very hard time living here.” She flicked her fingers, brushing her hair back with arrogant precision. “But fine. Whatever.” She crossed her arms and regarded Asia again, this time slightly less like she wanted to interrogate her and slightly more like she was evaluating a new employee.

“I’m Evangeline,” she said flatly. “Welcome to the castle. Do your work properly, and we shouldn’t have any problems.”

Asia—heart pounding—bowed so fast her head nearly snapped forward. “R-RIGHT! I-I will do my best!”

Evangeline waved her hand dismissively as if telling a child to sit. “You’d better.”

Then she returned smoothly to her seat, legs crossed, sipping her tea like nothing dramatic had happened at all.

Raynare exhaled and Kalawarna wiped her forehead. Asia trembled but peeked out from behind Raynare, relieved the tiny but terrifying vampire had backed off.

Finally, Issei leaned slightly so he could meet Asia’s fearful eyes. “My Issei and I hope we can get along.” Issei, seeing her fear, then placed his hand on her head and gave it a rub. “Asia… you’re more than welcome here. You can stay as long as you want. You’re safe. I promise.”

Asia’s eyes shimmered with emotion. “R-Really…? You mean it…?”

He smiled. “Of course.”

Asia nearly burst into tears from relief.

Behind her, Raynare and Kalawarna exhaled deeply, relieved beyond words.

Then Issei frowned slightly, looking at the whole table. “And all of you—don’t give her a hard time. She’s been through enough.”

The girls grumbled, muttered, or nodded reluctantly.

Except Henrietta, who placed a supportive hand on Asia’s back. “You're one of us now.”

—----------------------------------

Raynare and Kalawarna brought the remaining dishes to the table. The delicious aroma filled the room, rice, miso soup, fresh vegetables, warm bread, grilled meat, and fruit.

Everyone began serving themselves.

Issei turned to Asia. “Hey Asia, we’re heading out after lunch to meet my parents and then go around town. Do you want to come with us?”

Asia looked uncertain and turned to her senior maids.

Raynare smiled softly. “Go.”

Kalawarna nodded. “You should learn more about Master Issei.”

Asia looked back at him. “I… I would very much like to come.”

Issei beamed. “Great. Then sit down and eat with us.”

Asia nervously sat between Raynare and Henrietta. And the group began eating together.

Done. Tell me what you think and if I made any mistakes. Sorry this took so long, I got writer’s block. Like always this commission was brought to you by Deus Ex Mima. So be sure to thank him.