GHK DXD Chapter 16 A Visit Home (Patreon)

Asia sat quietly at the long dining table, hands folded neatly in her lap as everyone began to eat. The table buzzed with conversation and she could barely keep up with all the voices.

It had only been a few hours since she arrived, but her life already felt like it had changed completely.

‘These people… They’re nothing like the church. Nothing like the orphanage. Nothing like the Vatican…’ Her eyes drifted around the table, studying each face, each person so different from the last.

Nyaruko, who kept bouncing in her seat, declaring she can’t wait for her high school romance! Asia didn’t know what that meant, but the enthusiasm was… comforting? Terrifying? Both?

Priscilla, who smiled gently at her every few minutes, as if checking to make sure Asia hadn’t disappeared. Asia blushed each time, feeling strangely reassured.

Henrietta, who served her a small portion of food with perfect etiquette and whispered, “Take your time. No one will rush you here.”

That kindness made Asia’s chest tighten.

Karura, who looked indifferent at first—but Asia caught her glancing over several times, her gaze growing softer each time. Asia suspected Karura wasn’t as cold as she pretended.

Kaguya, elegant and intimidating, who made Asia feel like she was in the presence of royalty. But even she had welcomed Asia, strictly, but without cruelty.

Shiraori, who sat silently at the far end, eating with perfect stillness.

Asia shivered when their eyes met—then remembered the gentle head-pat from earlier, and relaxed.

And then there was Evangeline, who was… terrifying. But even she had welcomed Asia in her own sharp, blunt way.

Asia took a small bite of food as it was warm, flavorful, and delicious. Her hands trembled as she realized that she wasn’t hated. ‘These people… they’re treating me kindly. Nobody is pushing me away.  Nobody is looking at me like a mistake. Nobody is calling my Sacred Gear a curse…’

It felt unreal. She swallowed the bite of food slowly, savoring the warmth in her chest more than the taste.

‘Master Issei…’ Her gaze drifted to him.

He was laughing with Nyaruko, arguing with Run, apologizing because Furina threw bread at him for being “too slow.” He looked… normal. Kind. Warm. And when he had said she could stay—as long as she wanted…

Asia’s heart had nearly broken with relief. She lowered her gaze again, feeling tears prick her eyes. ‘I thought… after being excommunicated, after losing the church, after losing my home… I thought that God was punishing me. But…’ She looked around at the table again. At the food. At the smiles directed toward her, some kind, some competitive, some curious. ‘…Maybe this is his blessing too.’

Asia quietly whispered in Italian under her breath, “…Grazie…”

Henrietta heard her and leaned closer. “Did you say something, Asia?”

Asia shook her head quickly, smiling shyly. “No… I’m just happy.”

Henrietta returned the smile warmly.

Issei glanced over then, meeting Asia’s eyes. “You okay over there, Asia?” His voice was gentle. Honest. Concerned.

Asia felt her eyes sting—but smiled brighter. “Y-Yes… Master Issei. I’m… I’m very okay.”

And for the first time in months she truly meant it.

—-----------------------------

Lunch had ended, dishes were cleared, and the dining hall slowly emptied. Soon the entire group gathered near the front doors of the Hidden Castle.

Everyone was dressed in casual clothing, each outfit carefully crafted by Shiraori’s silk-like magic threads. The monster girls, Priscilla, Lala, and Shiraori, stood in their human forms with normal-looking eyes and skin so they wouldn’t stand out.

Priscilla wore a cute black dress with a bow. Lala wore shorts, a sweater, and moved her head very carefully. Shiraori looked like a white-haired doll in a cozy cardigan and skirt, still pouting.

Issei looked around, making sure they were all ready. “All right. Evangeline? Raynare? Kalawarna? You’re sure you three want to stay behind?”

Evangeline simply yawned like a bored immortal queen who had seen everything. “I have zero interest in spending an afternoon mingling with normal humans.” She waved her hand lazily. “But do give my regards to Miki and Gorou.”

Issei nodded. “Will do.”

The two maids then bowed deeply in perfect synchronized form.

“Master Issei,” Raynare said, “we have to finish cleaning the second floor.”

Kalawarna added, “And the laundry for fourteen people won’t wash itself.”

Issei sweatdropped. “Uh… right. Good luck.”

Both gave him reassuring smiles.  “We’ll manage, do give our regards to Lady Miki and Lord Gorou.”

The group was just about to head out when Issei turned just in time to see Shiraori inching backward toward the hall like a cat trying to escape bath time.

“Nnnnnn…”

“Nope.” Issei caught her hand instantly.

Shiraori whined, cheeks puffing. ‘I don’t want to leave and want to stay here!’

“No.” Issei tugged her gently. “You’re coming with us.”

She then showed her puppy eyes as if to beg.

“I know,” Issei chuckled, patting her head. “But you’ll be fine.”

Shiraori looked betrayed. Deeply, cosmically betrayed. But she allowed him to hold her hand, though her pout only grew bigger.

Run whispered to Nyaruko, “It’s actually impressive he can drag Shiraori outside.”

Nyaruko whispered back, “Darling is the only one with enough charisma to move a mountain.”

On Issei’s other side, Yukina timidly took his free hand.

“I-I-Issei… is it really okay… for me to go outside… like this…?”

She was dressed in a soft white hoodie and a skirt, looking every bit the shy, adorable girl seeing the world for the first time.

Issei squeezed her hand gently. “You’re fine, Yukina. I’m right here.”

She nodded nervously, cheeks pink.

Behind her, several girls immediately pouted.

“Why do Yukina and Priscilla get to hold his other hand?!” Nyaruko complained

“Yukina because she asked first.” Run said and allowed it as she really didn’t mind Yukina as she was quite shy.

“Hmph! I could’ve asked first! I just didn’t want to!” Furina said, crossing her arms.

Issei pretended he heard none of that.

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

Kuoh Town

The group stepped out of the forest surrounding the old church and onto the streets of Kuoh, sunlight spilling warmly across the pavement and immediately people started to stare hard just like before.

Young men froze, girls whispered, old ladies smiled warmly and gave a warm welcome. A group of middle schoolers stopped dead in their tracks.

Because walking in one big cluster around an average-looking boy were a radiant foreign beauty, a tall goddess in casual clothes, a gothic snow-white doll with a killer figure, a traditional shy beauty, a hyperactive silver-haired gremlin, a smug performer, a biker, a noble like girl and a cheerful sweetheart. Every one of them beautiful in their own unique way.

And they constantly did things like Henrietta asking about every new piece of technology in her sight as she couldn’t believe that all this technological wonder happened without magic.  

“Issei, is it safe to cross the street now?”Henrietta asked as they were about to cross the street, always turning around to look and ask various questions to Issei.

Run then loops her arm around his as a form of physical contact and makes herself unforgettable to Issei’s eyes.  “Careful, cars are fast here.” 

Nyaruko: was no better as she clings to him and tries to climb on his back.  “Darling~ the sun is perfectly today! Let’s go on a date!”

“Issei! How much longer are we supposed to walk?!” Furina complained.

People around them watched with jealousy, awe, and confusion.

One passing guy muttered, “…how is that fair?”

His friend replied, “That man must have saved a country in a past life.”

Issei pretended not to hear the comments, though his ego rose and fell at the same time.

Henrietta and Yukina walked close together, gazing around with wide eyes.

Henrietta’s eyes sparkled. “This town… it’s so peaceful. So clean. I have never seen homes built like this.”

Yukina nodded shyly. “I-I thought your world… would be more dangerous… but everything looks so gentle…”

Henrietta giggled softly. “It’s charming, isn’t it?”

Yukina glanced at all the people staring at them. “I-Issei… why are so many people looking…?”

Issei rubbed the back of his head. “Well… it might be because all of you are super beautiful and… kind of loud.”

Nyaruko waved at a group of gawking high school boys. “HELLO, ENVIOUS MORTALS!”

“Nyaruko! Stop yelling!” Issei groaned.

The boys screamed and ran away.

Priscilla sniffed the air, if her tail was out it would instinctively be moving. “There are so many scents… food stalls, humans, metal, flowers. Fascinating.”

Run pointed at a store window. “Issei, can we stop there later?”

Furina crossed her arms. “We are ABSOLUTELY stopping somewhere fun after this.”

Lala poked his shoulder. “Issei~ can we buy some snacks later?”

Issei sighed fondly. “Yes, yes, we’ll see more later. I promise.”

And with that they continued toward the Hyoudou household… Their parade-like presence drawing even more stares and whispers.

Issei tried not to panic. ‘This is going to be a long walk.’

But for Asia, walking with all of them for the first time, she couldn’t stop smiling softly as everyone was so interesting and lively, while Kaguya simply scoffed at how childish the girls were and Shiraori simply wondered when she could come home.

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

Hyoudou Residence

The group finally reached a modest two-story home tucked in a quiet suburban street, lined with modest houses, trimmed gardens, and the soft hum of a peaceful afternoon.. A bicycle leaning against the side. Laundry drying on a line. Simple. Peaceful. Ordinary.

Henrietta and Yukina blinked in awe.

“This is… very humble,” Henrietta said softly, hands clasped politely.

Yukina nodded quickly. “I-I didn’t expect Issei’s home to… feel so warm…”

Priscilla took a deep breath and grinned. “Smells like a home. Human homes always have a different scent.”

Furina whispered dramatically, “What a quaint little cottage! A cute little home for peasants!”

Karura elbowed her. “Don’t say things that get us kicked out.”

Lala peered at the roof. “Considering that Nyaruko, Evangeline, Priscilla, and Kaguya lived here before I expected it to be huge and full of mystery.”

Issei sweatdropped. “It’s just a normal house, Lala.”

Kaguya let out a small satisfied smile. “I look forward to seeing Mother-in-law and Father-in-law again. They are quite delightful people.”

Nyaruko hugged Issei from behind. “Yup! They love me more each visit!”

Priscilla looked at the house fondly.. “Miki always cooks good snacks.”

Asia clasped her hands to her chest. “It looks cozy!”

Run grabbed Issei’s arm and grinned. “Your childhood house is cute, Issei.”

Issei puffed out his chest proudly. “Well… yeah. It’s nothing special, but this is where I grew up. My home.”

He took a breath and knocked. After a few moments, footsteps approached from inside and the door opened.

And standing there was a warm-looking woman in an apron, Miki Hyoudou. Her face quickly lit up the moment she saw him. “Issei! Welcome home!”

“Mom!” Issei smiled broadly.

She leaned out and saw Nyaruko, Kaguya, and Priscilla. “Oh! Nyaruko-chan, Kaguya-chan, Priscilla-chan! You girls look wonderful!”

The three beamed.

But then Miki’s eyes followed the line of girls…and kept going……and going as she froze completely as she spotted the new additions.

“Um… Issei… sweetie…?” She counted silently at the Eight new girls causing her smile to twitch. “You brought home even MORE girls?!”

Issei coughed. “Uh. Surprise?” Before he could, the girls all bowed, almost in unison.

“Hello, Mother in law!” Run yelled excited to meet her boyfriends mother,

“We’re honored to meet you!” Henrietta says with a bow.

“Thank you for having us!”

“It’s a pleasure to be here!” Furina swept into a dramatic curtsy like she was on a theater stage.

They desperately tried to act properly with Shiraori staring blankly and bowing exactly one centimeter.

“G-Good afternoon…!” Asia bowed so fast she almost headbutted the door.

Miki’s brain short-circuited for a moment. Then smiled like a mother who had simply accepted that her life was strange now. “Well! Don’t just stand outside—come in, come in!” She ushered them inside with open arms.

—-----------------------------------

The Hyoudou living room was modest, soft carpet, family photos, a well-worn couch, a TV stand with neatly arranged DVDs. A simple, cozy space meant for three people at most.

Not eleven supernatural girls. The moment they entered, the room overflowed with chaos. Run and Nyaruko immediately flanked Issei on both sides as the three brought chairs from the kitchen.

Run looped her arm around his and Nyaruko clung to the other. Both glared at each other. Issei sat stiffly between them, silently praying for mercy.

Karura took a nearby armchair, legs crossed, posture perfect. She looked like she owned the house already.

Furina strode to the couch, claimed the absolute middle cushion, and sat with one leg crossed over the other, hands delicately folded. “As expected. The center suits me.” Everyone ignored her, making Furina click her tongue. “Philistines…”

Henrietta and Yukina sat together on the floor cushions, backs straight, hands on their laps. They looked like two perfect daughters-in-law already. Asia timidly sat at the very edge of another cushion, as if worried she’d take up too much space.

Lala wandered the room touching everything. “Issei! What’s this? A paperweight? Why is it so boring and normal?” 

Shiraori sat so still on the couch that her white cardigan and black skirt blended perfectly with the floral pattern. Anyone who didn’t look closely would assume she was an extra cushion.

The girls then began noticing the framed photos on the wall. Baby Issei in a diaper. Toddler Issei wearing a panda onesie. Elementary-school Issei with two missing teeth. And Middle-school Issei with messy hair and awkward smile.

Run clasped both hands to her cheeks and squealed. “DARLING WAS ADORABLE!!!”

Henrietta giggled behind her hand. “He had such precious chubby cheeks~”

Karura smirked. “Our children will look equally adorable.”

Issei shriveled in embarrassment.

Shiraori nodded. “…Squishy.”

Issei died inside.

Nyaruko dramatically fell to the carpet. “WHY HAVEN’T I SEEN THESE BEFORE?!!!”

Furina wiped a fake tear. “I cannot believe this is the same Issei…”

Issei groaned. “PLEASE STOP LOOKING AT BABY ME—”

Lala turned a photo sideways. “You were so cute I wanna squish you!”

Miki left the room and called down the hall. “Gorou! Issei and the girls are here!”

Footsteps approached. Gorou Hyoudou entered the living room wiping his hands with a towel. “Oh, Issei, welcome back—” But he froze and his towel slipped from his hand as he stared at the overflowing room of girls. “…Issei.”

“Y-Yes, Dad?”

Gorou pointed slowly, eyes wide. “…The horde… it grew.”

Issei nearly fell on his face. “Dad…”

Miki slapped her husband’s arm. “Gorou! Hush. Introduce yourselves properly!”

Gorou straightened suddenly. “R-Right! Hello. I’m Gorou Hyoudou. Issei’s father. Nice to meet all of you.”

The new girls quickly lined up ready for their proper introduction to their In-laws.

Shiraori stood first but she wouldn’t talk.

Issei nudged her gently. “Shiraori… say something?”

She stared at Miki and Gorou like they were interesting insects and instead waved her hand. Then went silent.

Issei rubbed his forehead. “Her name is Shiraori. She’s… very shy.”

Gorou nodded seriously. “The silent type. I respect it.”

Miki smiled warmly. “Welcome, Shiraori-chan.”

Shiraori blinked once, processing the kindness like incoming data.

It was Karura's turn as she rose with full confidence. “I am Karura. I like strong men.”

Issei’s eyes widened. ‘Oh no—’

“And I promise you that I will produce strong children with Issei.”

Miki choked on her own saliva with Gorou stiffened. The girls of course reacted differently as they always do whenever Karura boldly declared her intentions with Yukina squeaking, Asia covered her entire face and Henrietta blushed politely.

Run screamed.“What are you saying so casually!”

Kaguya scoffed, and pouted.  “Over my dead body.”

Nyaruko pointed dramatically. “HEY! That’s MY line!”

Karura just shrugged, smug and unbothered.

And then Gorou put both thumbs up. “You have my support.”

“DAD!!!” Issei yelled, mortified.

Miki smacked Gorou.  “GOROU!”

Gorou winced. “Ow—sorry…” Karura smirked in victory at having Father-in-law’s approval.

Run then stepped forward with the confidence of someone who knew every angle of her face looked good. She twirled a strand of her long hair around her finger, winked playfully, and leaned forward just enough to be disarming. “I’m Run! Issei’s newest and best girl~” She added a small hip sway for emphasis.

Nyaruko hissed like a boiling kettle, Kaguya narrowed her eyes, Karura clicked her tongue, Henrietta politely ignored the provocation and Asia blinked innocently, not understanding the competition at all.

Issei, meanwhile, nearly imploded. “R-Run!”

She just winked again. “Oh, darling, no need to be shy~”

Gorou leaned toward Miki and whispered out of the corner of his mouth. “…She’s like a calmer Nyaruko.”

Miki stared at Run. Then she stared at Nyaruko. “…That scares me.”

Before the tension could recover, Furina stepped dramatically into the center of the room, throwing one arm toward the ceiling. “Behold!” She declared, as if announcing a royal decree. “I am Furina, the radiant star of your son’s romantic sky!” She performed a full, elegant twirl, skirt flaring perfectly, before striking a final pose with one hand on her hip.

For a moment, silence filled the room.

Then Miki burst into applause. “OHHH she’s precious! Look at her go!”

Furina’s eyes sparkled with pride. “Yes, yes, do praise me!”

Gorou nodded approvingly. “She’s… dramatic.”

Issei nodded reluctantly. “That’s just how she is.”

Furina spun to him. “Hush, Issei. I am basking.”

Next to step forward was Henrietta, who glided so gracefully. She curtsied, posture perfect, poise immaculate. “My name is Henrietta de Tristain. Thank you for welcoming us into your home.”

Miki melted like warm butter. “Oh my GOODNESS—she’s SO proper! Gorou, look at her! She looks like she walked out of a fairytale!”

Gorou puffed his chest. “Very refined and extremely polite.”

Issei choked on air and Henrietta just smiled serenely… but her cheeks warmed ever so slightly.

Yukina, seeing her friend introduce herself, went next, timidly stepped forward, fingers nervously fidgeting with her sleeves. “I-I’m Yukina… i-it’s nice to meet you…” She bowed so deeply she nearly headbutted the coffee table.

Miki and Gorou nearly collapsed to their knees. “SHE’S ADORABLE!” Miki cupped both hands to her face and Gorou nodded furiously. “Protect her at all costs, Issei!”

Yukina, caught between praise and embarrassment, flushed red from her ears to her collar. “I-I’ll try my best…”

Asia scooted closer to her friend and whispered, “Y-You did wonderfully…”

Yukina squeaked in gratitude.

Run smiled proudly, hands on hips. “See? I told you they’d love you.”

Nyaruko crossed her arms. “Tch. Too cute. Suspiciously cute.”

Shiraori stared with blank approval. Furina struck another pose. “I remain the most fabulous.”

Henrietta gave Yukina a comforting pat. Asia beamed softly, happy that her friends were instantly loved.

Lala then stood up next, giving her a gloomy tone and look. Her shoulders were slumped. Her posture wilted. Her eyes were dull as she shuffled a step forward. “Hello…” She muttered without energy. “I’m Lala.”

Miki and Gorou both leaned forward in concern.

Lala continued in an exhausted monotone. “Both of you look to be in perfect health… and don’t appear to be dying.”

The room collectively blinked.

Then Lala quietly sat back down with a bored, checked-out expression, as if she had just finished giving a medical exam.

Gorou scratched his cheek. “…Well… that’s good to hear?”

Miki whispered to him, “What does that even mean?”

“I have no idea.” Gorou whispered back confused.

Nyaruko leaned forward and stage-whispered, “Lala is able to determine people’s health by how close they are to dying.”

Miki’s face blanched. “WHAT—”

Lala simply waved limply. “It’s fine. You’re fine.”

Issei buried his face in his hands. ‘Why is she like this…?’

Furina muttered proudly, “At least I’m not the strangest one today.”

Finally, Asia stepped forward. She looked tiny between all the other girls, her hands clasped tightly in front of her skirt, knees slightly trembling, eyes wide with nervousness. “I-I am Asia Argento…” She began softly. “T-thank you for letting me visit…” She didn’t even get to finish.

As Miki hugged her instantly. “Oh, both you and Yukina look adorable.”

Asia squeaked like a startled kitten.

Gorou stepped forward and gently patted her head. “Absolute sweetheart.”

Asia’s eyes shimmered. She looked up at them with such pure gratitude that it made half the girls internally melt.

Henrietta smiled fondly. “She’s already won them over.”

Karura crossed her arms. “Tch. Expected.”

Even Shiraori nodded once, as if approving Asia’s strategic cuteness.

Issei… Well, he just sighed with relief. ‘Thank god Mom likes her.’

And Miki stood in the center of it all—taking it in, processing it, delight shimmering in her eyes. “So many wonderful girls,” she sighed.  “We don’t understand everything about your circumstances, but… we’re happy you’re all here.”

Gorou nodded beside her, arms crossed with pride. “Every one of you seems like a good girl.”

With introductions done, everyone sat again. Some on the couch, some on the floor, some politely on cushions. The living room felt small but warm, filled with soft chatter, the smell of tea, and the faint jingling of decorations hanging from the window.

Miki clapped her hands happily.

“So! How is our son treating you all?”

There was no hesitation—only a chorus of immediate, sincere responses from him being very respectful and kind. That he treats them gently and worries for them. Being wonderful and considerate in supporting them. Each answer hit Issei in the chest like a physical blow of embarrassment. His face turned crimson and he wanted to crawl under the table. ‘Why are they saying this all at once?!’

Miki and Gorou exchanged a proud, sparkling look.

Miki exclaimed, “We raised him right, Gorou!”

Gorou puffed up like a rooster. “That’s my boy!”

Issei covered his face with both hands. “Mom, Dad, please…”

Nyaruko leaned over to Run. “He’s dying. This is amazing.”

Run giggled. “He’s cute when he’s embarrassed.”

Shiraori stared blankly. “…Warm.”

Issei didn’t know if he should be happy or hide in the pantry.

Miki then turned to familiar faces. “Nyaruko-chan, Kaguya-chan, Priscilla-chan—how have you been?”

Nyaruko sparkled. “Amazing! I’m living my best life with Darling!”

Issei sputtered. “NYARUKO—”

Kaguya nodded with elegant composure. “We now live in a beautiful castle.”

Priscilla added in her calm, sultry voice. “Evangeline used her magic and transformed the old church into a fortress.”

Both parents stared. Then stared more, confused.

“…We’ll just pretend we understand,” Miki said finally.

Gorou nodded. “Sounds… impressive?”

“And Evangeline-chan, Raynare-chan and Kalawarna-chan?” Miki asked.

Issei smiled. “They’re busy cleaning but send their greetings.”

Miki nodded. “Good girls.”

Gorou chuckled. “Dedicated. I like that.”

Furina whispered, “That’s because they’re terrified of Evangeline.”

Run whispered back, “Aren’t we all?”

—-----------------------

Time flowed gently in the Hyoudou home.

The afternoon sun shifted across the living room floor, painting warm gold across the carpet as laughter and conversation filled the air. Cups clinked softly. Juice glasses were refilled. Gorou kept bringing snacks, crackers, cookies, and sliced fruit. Miki moved around like a cheerful hostess, offering drinks and asking questions. She looked ecstatic, suddenly receiving a small army of daughters.

The girls, after the chaos of introductions, finally began to relax.

Miki leaned forward in fascination as she listened to Karura. “So is magic is normal where you come from?”

Karura shock her head. “Not really. It's something I picked up here. Apparently the moment I was summoned I was given an affinity to lightning magic and Evangeline taught the basics. In my clan we are mostly a family of Martial Artists and because of that the women of the Kure have to search for the strongest fighters that can produce the strongest children.”

Gorou blinked. “Really?!”

 Karura simply smirked. “Yup! So I’m thrilled to have been chosen by Issei as he is quite strong.”

Across the room, Furina was gesturing dramatically as talked about her home. “In Fontaine, my homeland, we have an Opera House so grand, so majestic, that people faint simply from witnessing the opening act!”

Issei whispered to Run, “Do you think that people actually faint?”

Run shook her head. “No idea but they probably get overwhelmed.”

Furina overheard and spun around. “HUSH! It's a dramatic exaggeration for storytelling!”

Miki clapped happily. “No, no—please continue! It sounds wonderful.”

Furina beamed at the praise.

It was then Priscilla, sitting cross-legged beside Gorou, flicked her hand. A small ember of flame appeared above her palm and then a layer of frost on the other. “This is a basic spell.”

Gorou leaned back. “Man, Evangeline teaches the coolest tricks.”

Meanwhile, Henrietta and Yukina listened intently as Asia described the Holy Energy of this world.

“So the god of this world granted more abilities than Issei’s Sacred Gear?” Henrietta asked.

Asia nodded. “It feels very warm and very gentle. As it is given to us by our faith in the Lord. Meant to protect us from evil.”

Yukina stared in awe and in fear as she was a demon. “That’s amazing…”

In the corner, Shiraori was observing the Hyoudou family photo wall with expressionless fascination. Every few minutes, she poked a frame to watch it wiggle.

Gorou glanced over, confused. “Is she okay?”

Issei shrugged. “That’s just how she examines things.”

“Examines?” Miki asked.

Shiraori blinked, turning toward them. Then went back to poking baby Issei’s picture.

Nyaruko hissed, “HEY! Don’t damage Darling’s baby picture!”

Shiraori calmly poked it again.

Run scooted up beside Miki, eager to chat. “Miki-san! Did you know Issei has the cutest habit of making little ‘eep’ noises when he’s embarrassed?”

Issei nearly spat his drink. “Run!”

Miki perked up. “Really?!”

“I do not!”

Run continued cheerfully, “He did it earlier at home.Yukina thought it was cute~”

Yukina squeaked. “I-I didn’t say that—!”

Issei’s soul left his body.

Gorou moved beside Issei with a sly grin. “You’ve grown so popular, huh?”

Issei groaned. “Dad, please stop…”

“No can do.” Gorou slapped his back. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for me to tease you.”

“He’s never going to recover,” Kaguya murmured approvingly.

Henrietta leaned closer to Asia and Yukina. “Issei’s parents are very kind…”

Asia nodded warmly. “Yes… they feel like a real family…”

Yukina whispered shyly,  “Makes me jealous that I never got to experience the warmth of a family.”

Asia squeezed her hand comfortingly.

As sunlight faded into early evening, the room remained warm and bright as the group continued exchanging stories from Issei’s embarrassing childhood moments. Kaguya’s stories of Lunarian etiquette, Nyaruko describing her missions during her time as an agent of the law, Asia learning the names of snacks she had never seen. Furina reenacting a melodramatic play scene to applause from Miki. Even Issei found himself relaxing… despite wanting to jump out the window every time someone praised him.

Eventually Run lifted her hand excitedly. “Oh! And five of us are about to go to school now!”

Henrietta nodded proudly. “We are preparing well for that moment.”

Gorou and Miki visibly sagged in relief. “Oh thank goodness,” Miki said. “We were worried he was taking on too much responsibility…”

Gorou nodded. “But it seems he’s managing well.”

Issei rubbed the back of his neck shyly. “Thanks… I’m doing my best.”

Henrietta smiled softly at him. “You are doing wonderfully.”

Nyaruko hugged his arm. “Darling is the best!”

Karura grunted. “He’s competent. Enough.”

Furina pointed grandly. “Hah! He tries his best, at least!”

Asia clasped her hands. “I-I think he’s very brave…”

Issei nearly fainted from the combined affection.

Miki and Gorou exchanged another proud smile. “Our boy is growing up,” Miki whispered.

Gorou nodded proudly at his son. “And surrounded by beautiful girls.”

“DAD—!” The girls laughed while Asia giggled softly and the cozy living room filled with warmth.

—-----------------------------------

The late afternoon sun washed the Hyoudou residence in a soft golden glow as the front door slid open and the group stepped out onto the little concrete walkway. Issei adjusted the strap of the bag on his shoulder, the one stuffed with a few things from his room that he thought the girls would like later. Behind him, the others filed out in a loose, colorful wave.

Miki and Gorou followed them to the doorway, standing side by side.

“Thank you for having us,” Henrietta said, bowing gracefully once more.

“It was… very fun,” Yukina added shyly, fingers twisting in her sleeves.

Asia clasped her hands together. “Th-Thank you for everything… It was a pleasure to meet you.”

Miki’s eyes softened. “Oh, sweethearts… you’re welcome anytime and Thank you for taking such good care of our Issei”

Nyaruko beamed. “Bye, Mom-in-law! Bye, Dad-in-law! I promise you, your future grandkids will be perfect!”

“STOP SAYING THAT IN FRONT OF THEM!” Issei yelled.

Gorou laughed. Miki just sparkled at the thought.

Karura smirked. “You raised a good man. I’ll make strong children with hi—”

“WE ARE LEAVING,” Issei said quickly.

Run bounced lightly. “Thank you for letting us explore your house!”

Furina placed a hand dramatically over her heart. “Your hospitality has been exquisite. I shall remember it.”

Priscilla bowed her head with calm dignity. “Thank you. It was… peaceful and enjoyable.”

Shiraori simply stood by Issei’s side, staring at the couple with those unblinking red eyes.

Miki smiled at her too. “You’re welcome here as well, Shiraori-chan.”

Shiraori blinked once and nodded

Issei turned toward his parents. “Well, we’re gonna go look around town a bit for now. I’ll make sure they don’t cause too much trouble.”

“That should be our line,” Gorou muttered.

Miki stepped forward, hands clasped, looking at all the girls at once. “Listen, all of you,” she said warmly, “you are always welcome here. You don’t need permission from us or from Issei. Just come by if you ever want to. This is your home too, okay?”

Asia’s breath was caught. Henrietta’s eyes softened. Yukina’s fingers curled over her chest. Even Kaguya’s expression turned gentle, just a little.

“Remember family doesn’t need an invitation to visit." Miki continued. “You’re part of his life… that means you’re part of ours.”

Gorou nodded firmly. “Exactly. And—” He pointed at them all with a serious look. “Please take care of each other. And watch over Issei, okay? He can be reckless and dumb sometimes.”

“HEY!” Issei protested.

Nyaruko saluted. “Understood! I’ll be Darling’s eternal guardian!”

Run smiled. “We promise.”

Henrietta bowed. “We will protect him as he has protected us.”

Karura nodded solemnly. “If he falls, I’ll work him to the ground so he can get back up.”

“That’s not how that works,” Issei muttered.

Asia spoke up gently. “I-I’ll do my best to support him…”

Furina huffed. “I’ll keep him from doing anything too stupid. Publicly, at least.”

Priscilla smirked. “He is important to us as well and we’ll protect him.”

Even Lala chirped softly, “…I’ll watch him.”

It was quiet for a moment, the air full of softly spoken vows and unspoken feelings.

Then Miki’s expression brightened again. “And next time,” she said, jabbing a finger lightly at Issei, “bring Evangeline-chan, Raynare-chan, and Kalawarna-chan, okay? I want to see them too.”

Issei nodded. “Yeah. I promise. Next time, I’ll drag them all here.”

Miki and Gorou stepped forward, and what followed was a small, slightly chaotic hug rotation with Miki hugged Asia, Yukina, and Henrietta a little too tightly. She hugged Nyaruko, Run, and Lala like old friends. She then hugged Karura, Kaguya, and Furina with amused affection. She awkwardly but firmly hugged Shiraori, who just went stiff and accepted it like strange data. Gorou gave everyone light, fatherly pats on the shoulder or head.

And finally, both parents pulled Issei into a brief, warm embrace.

“Be careful out there,” Miki murmured.

“Make good memories,” Gorou added.

Issei smiled. “Yeah. I will.”

The group began to move toward the street, shoes crunching lightly on the pavement. They turned back once more as Miki and Gorou stood in the doorway.

“Come back soon!” Miki waved.

“We will,” Issei called back.

“So will we!” Nyaruko shouted.

“Definitely,” Run added.

Asia smiled softly and bowed again. “Thank you…!”

Henrietta and Yukina followed with their own polite farewells. Furina gave one last grand wave like a stage performer at curtain call. Karura nodded. Shiraori… just stared, but she gave a small wave with a smile.

And with that, the little crowd of girls and one very overwhelmed boy walked away from the Hyoudou house—

Heading back down the quiet neighborhood street, toward the busier heart of Kuoh, and whatever came next.

—------------------------------

Kuoh Park

The early evening air in Kuoh was crisp and gentle, the sky streaked in soft orange and pink as the sun lazily began its descent.

The group moved like a small parade through the town—laughing, chatting, slowing down to peek into storefronts as Issei pointed out familiar landmarks.

He took them past convenience stores, cafés, the bus stop, the shopping district, and finally—

“Over here,” Issei said, nodding ahead. “This is the park.”

The park was lively as children ran across the grass, laughing, chasing each other with plastic swords and balls. Parents talked on benches, keeping a watchful eye. A few couples walked hand in hand down the path, sharing quiet smiles. Leaves rustled softly in the trees, and the faint sounds of a fountain echoed from the center.

Asia watched a small girl chasing bubbles, eyes shining. “It’s… so peaceful…” she murmured.

Henrietta smiled softly. “It feels like a painting.”

Yukina hugged her own arms, breathing in slowly. “There are so many people… but it doesn’t feel scary here…”

Priscilla took everything in with a calm, almost feline gaze. Furina tilted her head, analyzing how humans gathered in such ordinary places.

Issei felt something tug inside his chest. “…Been a while since I came here like this,” He said quietly.

Nyaruko and Kaguya both paused beside him. The three of them stood at the path entrance, staring deeper into the park, toward a familiar bench under a tree.

Nyaruko was the first to speak. “Hey… this is where our date ended…” She said softly.

Kaguya also looked nostalgic. “Indeed. The night everything changed.”

Run blinked, glancing between them. “Date?”

Furina’s ears perked. “Oh? History?”

Asia tilted her head. “Something… happened here?”

Issei rubbed the back of his neck. “Yeah. Our… date got kind of ruined.”

Nyaruko’s brow twitched. “Kind of?”

Kaguya gave him a warning look.

Issei held up his hands. “Okay, very ruined.”

They walked a little deeper into the park. The bench where Nyaruko and Kaguya had once sat with him was still there. Another couple sat on it now, unaware that this was once the site of a near-murder.

Nyaruko folded her arms, cheeks puffed with a mix of embarrassment and leftover anger. “It was supposed to be the perfect date,” she muttered. “Just Darling and me, in this park, being romantic—”

Kaguya coughed pointedly.

Nyaruko scowled. “…Fine. And the intruder.”

Kaguya sniffed. “If you’re going to disrespect me, at least do it without lies. I was invited.”

“You crashed our alone time!” Nyaruko shot back. “That was MY date with Darling, and you just appeared like some smug moon princess. It was supposed to be PERFECT! And then—” Her expression shifted, the comedic anger dimming into something darker. “…And then she showed up.”

Asia watched her expression carefully. “S-She…?”

Karura glanced around. “Who?”

Kaguya’s eyes narrowed slightly, her voice cooling. “Raynare descended from the sky.” she said. “Interrupted our time here and threatened Issei. Had the audacity to try and take his life right in front of us.”

Shiraori tilted her head. The others felt the shift in mood.

Henrietta brought a hand to her mouth. “She… tried to kill Issei?”

Run frowned, brows knitting. “Wait, that Raynare? The same one who bows to him and takes his orders without question now?”

Asia’s eyes widened. “S-She did what…?”

Yukina fidgeted. “But she’s always so polite now…”

Nyaruko clenched her fists at her sides, remembering. “She summoned spears of light,” she muttered. “Aimed right at Darling’s chest. Talked like he was trash. Like his life was meaningless. Like he was just something to throw away.”

Issei tried to cut in. “She was just following orders back then—”

Nyaruko whirled on him. “I DON’T CARE WHAT HER ORDERS WERE!” Her voice echoed louder than she intended. A few kids glanced over curiously before returning to their games.

Nyaruko took a deep breath, forcing her tone down. “I watched her try to kill you,” she said quietly. “ In front of me.”

Kaguya closed her eyes, remembering too. “I admit,” she said softly, “I was…also less composed than usual.”

Nyaruko huffed, cheeks flushed. “I was ready to tear her wings off. I didn’t care. She ruined everything.”

Issei scratched his cheek, awkward. “Y-You were really that mad…?”

Nyaruko rounded on him, eyes shining. “You nearly died, Darling. What did you expect me to feel? Happy?”

Asia looked between Nyaruko, Kaguya, and Issei, trying to imagine it. To her, Raynare was stern, friendly, hardworking, and oddly gentle. She had seen the way Raynare watched Issei now—like he was both her savior and her greatest source of shame.

“I… I didn’t know,” Asia whispered. “ I didn’t know she tried to kill you personally…”

Henrietta pressed a hand against her chest. “To go from attempting his murder to serving him as a maid…” she murmured. “That’s… quite the transformation.”

Yukina nodded, still trying to reconcile it. “Raynare-san… always looks like she’s trying so hard. I can’t imagine her aiming to kill Issei…”

Karura frowned thoughtfully. “So that’s the root of their tension,” she mused. “The reason Nyaruko looks ready to blast Raynare into ash every time she drops a plate.”

Nyaruko crossed her arms. “She’s lucky Evangeline got to her first.”

Run looked at Issei. “And you forgave her?”

Issei shrugged, a small smile tugging at his lips. “She changed,” he said simply. “Evangeline rewrote them, but… the way Raynare acts now? That’s not fake. She’s…really trying to make amends, plus she regrets it.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I’d rather give someone a chance to make things right than just… hate them forever.”

Asia’s eyes softened. ‘Of course the master would say that…’ She thought.

Furina folded her arms, lips pursed. “Hmph. Foolish… but very in character for you.”

Kaguya then released a sigh. “I still do not like that she once dared to aim at you,” she said, “but… I will admit she has been fulfilling her role well.”

Nyaruko pouted, looking away. “I still don’t like her touching anything that belongs to Darling,” she muttered. “But… she’s… not as bad as before.”

Issei grinned. “So, you like her now?”

Nyaruko nearly exploded. “DON’T PUSH IT!!”

A passing child laughed at the sound of her outburst, and the moment of heavy tension cracked back into familiar chaos.

Run sighed and smiled. “You really are all ridiculous.”

Asia glanced once more at the place where it almost ended for him—where their story could have stopped before it ever truly began.

She quietly slid a little closer to Issei, walking at his side.

“…I’m glad you survived,” she whispered.

Issei blinked, then smiled back at her, gentle. “Me too.”

The others slowly began to move again, following the curve of the park path, their earlier conversation folding itself into the growing story of their shared lives.

Done. Tell me what you think and if I made any mistakes. Like always this commission was brought to you by Deus Ex Mima. So be sure to thank him.