GHK DXD Chapter 18 Unexpected Company (Patreon)

Afternoon, Kuoh Town, Bookstore

The quiet peace of the bookstore was suddenly broken by the soft, cheerful chime of the front door.

Issei didn’t think much of it at first. Customers came and went all the time, and he was currently far too engrossed in browsing the newly stocked +18 manga racks. But then, drifting over the quiet hum of ambient store music, he caught the unmistakable sound of a voice he recognized all too well.

“…Akeno, I told you the latest volume should be out by today,” A smooth, confident voice said, carrying a gentle yet distinct aristocratic tone.

Another voice answered in a playful, teasing, sing-song rhythm. “Fufu~ Ara, Rias, you’re far more excited about your new release than our actual duties as Devils to make successful contracts.”

Issei froze mid-reach, his hand levitating over a fresh stack of manga tankōbon. ‘No way…’ Slowly, carefully, he turned his head just enough to peek through the narrow gap between two bookshelves.

Standing right at the entrance, illuminated by the store’s overhead lighting, was Rias Gremory. Her iconic, crimson-red hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her striking blue-green eyes scanned the retail floor with casual familiarity. Even dressed in stylish casual clothes rather than the Kuoh Academy uniform, she effortlessly radiated the posture and presence of high-class nobility.

Walking right beside her was Akeno Himejima, her long black hair bound in her signature ponytail. She wore her usual serene, mischievous smile, looking for all the world like a cat who had caught a canary. Trailing slightly behind them was Koneko Toujou, her small hands shoved deep into the oversized pockets of her hoodie, her expression was flat and unbothered as ever. And naturally, Yuuto Kiba brought up the rear with an easy, refined posture and a polite smile, standing like a loyal knight escorting his lord.

Rias took a quiet, lingering breath through her nose, her lips curving upward. “Smell that,” she murmured softly. “Fresh ink and new stock.”

Akeno giggled into her hand. “Rias-buchou, you really are an otaku at heart, aren't you?”

A faint blush dusted Rias’s cheeks as she cleared her throat, adjusting her posture. “I am not—I simply appreciate good storytelling and narrative artistry!”

Crouching half-hidden behind a display tower of light novels, Issei watched the four of them with a bead of cold sweat running down the back of his neck.

‘Great. Just great,’ Issei thought, his mind racing into overdrive. ‘Rias Gremory, the top idol of Kuoh Academy and the other ruler of this town. Guess that confirms that the entire Occult Research Club is her Devil peerage. Of all the bookstores in Kuoh, why did we have to end up in the exact same one at the exact same time?’

He could practically hear Matsuda and Motohama screaming in envy from miles away at the thought of a chance encounter with the two great Ladies of the school. But Issei knew better. As far as he was concerned, he’d rather avoid an unexpected confrontation entirely, especially without his own chaotic harem around to turn the situation upside down.

Sinking a little lower into the shadow of the shelf, Issei offered a silent, desperate prayer to whatever gods were listening that he could snag his books, duck out unnoticed, and leave without a full-blown standoff breaking out in the middle of a commercial plaza.

—-----------------------------------

It didn’t take long for Rias’s peerage to disperse throughout the vast, brightly lit bookstore.

Koneko Toujou, moving with silent steps, drifted straight toward the martial arts and combat sports section. Rows of glossy handbooks detailing striking forms, grappling diagrams, and traditional footwork lined the tall wooden shelves.

She paused, as she realized that she wasn’t alone in the aisle.

Karura was already leaning lightly against a side display, idly flipping through a thick volume on modern hand-to-hand combat styles. Her golden-black eyes scanned the pages with a mildly unimpressed, critical glance.

“Hmph… they overcomplicate the footwork,” Karura muttered under her breath, turning a page with an uninterested expression. “Too many wasted motions just to set up a basic strike. Though… I suppose some of this form work isn't entirely useless.”

Hovering just a few steps away, Furina let out a dramatic, weary sigh. Bored of the dense martial arts manuals, she crossed her arms, trailing behind like a misplaced diva.

“Karura, stop analyzing different forms of violence for five minutes and help me find the drama section instead,” Furina complained softly, a delicate pout gracing her features. “Surely someone of your status has an eye for titles that sound grand and dramatic.”

Karura didn't even look up from her book. “Why in the world would I know anything about stage plays?”

“Because you thrive on lightning, and catastrophic destruction!” Furina declared, making a small, flourishing gesture with her hand. “Those are the core elements of a magnificent tragedy!”

“…Your logic is utterly flawed,” Karura replied coolly, shutting the manual with a sharp snap.

In truth, Karura had zero interest in tragedies. If she was forced to read anything, her secret guilty pleasure would have been a passionate romance novel, a secret she fully intended to take to her grave. Unless, of course, such knowledge somehow provided a strategic advantage in helping her bear Issei, a strong child faster. But that was a thought best kept locked away.

Before Furina could offer another theatrical retort, a quiet presence stepped between them.

Koneko had stopped near the edge of the shelf. Her golden eyes flicked from the cover of the combat manual in Karura’s hands up to Karura herself. Koneko’s gaze lingered on the older woman’s relaxed yet perfectly balanced posture, the effortless, deadly composure of someone who didn't just practice martial arts, but had survived bloody fights.

“You do martial arts?” Koneko asked, her voice flat, small, and completely devoid of wasted energy.

Karura turned her head, meeting the petite girl's gaze. A sharp, perceptive glint lit up Karura’s eyes as she evaluated the white-haired girl in front of her.

“And you’re an actual fighter,” Karura stated evenly. It wasn’t a question. With a single glance, she could sense the heavy, dense physical power hidden beneath the girl's quiet exterior. This small girl was capable of a serious fight.

Koneko blinked once, her expression unreadable. “…Sort of.”

A faint, confident smirk touched Karura’s lips. “You’re strong. That little body hides it exceptionally well.”

Furina’s eyes darted back and forth between the two of them. Sensing the sudden spark of quiet intensity and a potential warrior rivalry brewing right in the middle of a public shop, she practically salivated at the sheer dramatic potential.

“Hoho~ Another taciturn warrior enters the fray!” Furina mused aloud, fanning her face with her hand. “How fascinating! The quiet, stoic dynamic!”

Ignoring Furina entirely, Koneko gestured slightly toward the book Karura had been reading. “That manual is popular,” Koneko noted quietly. “But three of the counters in chapter four are wrong. The center of gravity is off.”

Karura’s smirk widened into a genuine, approving nod. “I thought so too. The author clearly never had to block a real blow.”

Within seconds, the sharp dynamic between the two shifted into a low-voiced, surprisingly harmonious exchange, exchanging brief, terse critiques on stances, weight distribution, and lethal forms. Meanwhile, Furina let out another exaggerated sigh of despair, turning away to dramatically flip through a stack of Japanese theatrical scripts, left entirely to her own devices.

—---------------------------------

In another aisle lined with rows of pastel covers, shoujo novels, and romantic bestsellers, Akeno drifted through the soft hum of background music, completely oblivious to the fact that she had just wandered into volatile territory.

Run and Nyaruko were already deep in the stacks, hovering over a prominent feature display.

“So this one,” Run said eagerly, holding up a volume with a brightly illustrated dust jacket, “has the heroine moving in with her childhood friend after a ridiculous misunderstanding! Lots of slow-burn romance, lots of cute, fluffy pining~”

Nyaruko, standing right beside her, thrust another volume directly into the air with dramatic flair. “And this one has chaotic aliens, gripping suspense, and most importantly OPPAI! Just what Darling likes!”

Run frowned, adjusting her grip on her book as her hot-pink eyes narrowed slightly. “You don’t even know if it actually has oppai, Nyaruko.”

“It’s a high-stakes romance featuring intergalactic aliens,” Nyaruko declared, her iconic ahoge twitching with absolute conviction. “It definitely has oppai. It's a structural requirement!”

“My, my…” A quiet, purring voice hummed behind them. Akeno stepped closer, her hands folded gracefully over her front and a mischievous, elegant smile playing on her lips. “You two seem extraordinarily familiar with romance already.”

Run turned, her expression brightening instantly as she took in the tall, beautiful upperclassman. “Ah! Hello! Are you also looking for romance stories?”

Akeno tilted her head, her violet eyes gleaming with quiet amusement as her long ponytail swayed gently. “I enjoy them occasionally. A good love story can be quite… electrifying, wouldn't you say?”

Nyaruko squinted, leaning in slightly as her senses tingled. She studied Akeno’s serene, sadistically sweet aura for a long second before a wide grin broke across her face. “Oho? You have a ridiculously dangerous aura behind that polite smile… I like you!”

“Fufu~ Ara, you’re very honest,” Akeno replied with a light giggle, fanning a hand over her cheek.

Run took an eager step closer, holding her book up like exhibit A. “We were just arguing about which dynamic is superior, a slow-burn romance filled with lots of fluffy, heart-pounding moments, or a loud, crazy, unstoppable love that completely crashes into your life!”

Akeno glanced between the two of them, her smile widening as she felt the vibrant excited energy radiating off the pair. Though a part of her sensed some strange coming off those two but didn’t put much thought into it as she didn’t want to appear rude.

Nyaruko proudly puffed out her chest and tapped her sternum with a thumb. “I’m definitely the second one! Full-throttle, maximum fixation!”

“I… could tell,” Akeno murmured softly, pressing two fingers to her lips to hide a light, bubbling laugh. “It certainly suits you.”

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

Further down the wide, quiet aisles of the store, nestled near a towering shelf dedicated to translated literary classics and famous Japanese novels, Yuuto Kiba found himself drawn into conversation with a surprisingly striking group of young women.

Henrietta held a neatly bound volume in her hands, tilting her head slightly as her delicate fingers traced the spine. “This one was recommended by the store clerk,” She murmured, her noble demeanor shining through her curiosity. “He mentioned it was considered a seminal masterpiece in modern Japanese literature.”

Standing gracefully beside her, Kaguya, already holding a hardcover volume she had selected with scrutiny, gave a calm nod. “He provided a brief overview. It appears to focus heavily on inner introspection, human existentialism, and the subtle, inescapable loneliness of urban life.” Her crimson eyes flicked over the text. “A surprisingly melancholy choice made by commoners, yet not entirely devoid of artistic merit.”

Asia and Yukina hovered close behind them, listening intently with wide, earnest eyes.

Kiba offered his signature polite smile, one hand resting lightly against the polished wooden edge of the display shelf. His posture was effortless, radiating the smooth charm that made him the idol of Kuoh Academy’s female student body.

“If you’re looking for a good starting point, there are a few iconic authors almost everyone grows up hearing about,” Kiba explained smoothly, his voice pleasant and accommodating. “Though if I might offer a suggestion, it might be better to look for simpler works first, stories centered on everyday life, high school, or small-town drama. Those tend to feature straightforward vocabulary and simpler kanji, which should make them much easier to digest as you improve your reading comprehension.”

Henrietta’s face lit up with a soft, genuinely grateful smile. “You are exceptionally knowledgeable, sir. Thank you.”

Kiba bowed his head slightly in a suave, gentlemanly fashion. “It’s truly nothing. I just happen to read a fair amount.” He paused, his perceptive blue eyes scanning between Asia, Yukina, and Henrietta. Beneath his polite exterior, his sharp Devil senses picked up on Yukina’s distinct, non-human signatures and Henrietta’s large mana pool, yet right now, he mostly registered their eager enthusiasm mixed with a touch of quiet frustration.

“If you don't mind me asking... you’re all relatively new to the Japanese language, aren't you?” Kiba guessed gently.

Asia blushed, her fingers nervously clutching the strap of her bag as she offered a shy, timid nod. “Y-Yes… Issei-san promised he would help teach us how to read and write…”

Kiba’s charming smile visibly strained for a fraction of a second, a flicker of sheer disbelief passing through his mind. ‘Hyoudou-kun…?’ He mentally paused, trying to reconcile the image of Kuoh Academy’s most notorious pervert with the role of a gentle language tutor to four remarkably cute girls.

“I see,” Kiba said smoothly, though a subtle layer of amusement and confusion undercut his tone. “Hyoudou-kun can be… a bit clumsy and reckless at times, but I’ve heard he can be surprisingly dependable when it matters most?” He phrased it almost like a question, genuine curiosity peaking through.

Henrietta’s lips curved upward into a warm, fond expression. “He is. More than he gives himself credit for.”

Kaguya let out a soft, elegant huff, snapping her decorative fan shut with a light clack. “He has his moments,” She sniffed, though the subtle softening in her posture completely betrayed her haughty tone. “Though his lack of formal refinement requires constant supervision.”

Yukina bowed her head, a soft blush dusting her cheeks as she whispered quietly into her collar. “He’s… really kind. Truly.”

Watching the gentle warmth and unshakeable affection radiating from all four girls at the mere mention of Issei’s name, Kiba chuckled softly to himself.

‘So this is the kind of inner circle Hyoudou-kun surrounds himself with outside of school,’ Kiba thought, his gaze lingering on the group with newfound respect and intrigue. ‘No wonder the energy around him has been shifting so drastically lately.’

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

Meanwhile, deeper in the bookstore near the manga aisles, Issei found himself standing a mere meter away from none other than Rias Gremory.

She carried a shopping basket resting against the crook of her arm, already weighted down with several light novels and newly released volumes of manga. Her striking blue-green eyes scanned the shelves with practiced familiarity, her delicate fingers tracing along the colorful spines until they settled on a series she had been following.

Beside Issei, Shiraori stood like a silent shadow, clutching a towering stack of manga tightly against her chest like a personal treasure. A step behind them, Priscilla lingered with her quiet presence, her golden-green eyes curiously analyzing the fantasy titles lining the top shelves. Nearby, Lala cradled a few dark, gothic volumes against her coat, a faint, intrigued smile curling her lips as she inspected the ominous artwork on the covers.

Rias reached out to pluck a specific volume from the rack, but paused mid-motion. Her gaze slid sideways, sensing a sudden flicker of a presence right beside her.

Issei felt her gaze snap onto him and instantly froze, his shoulders hitching as their eyes met. For a long, breathless second, the two of them simply stared at each other in mutual recognition.

‘I of course I would meet her in the end!!’ Issei’s mind screamed, his heart practically leaping into his throat as his eyes involuntarily dropped for a fraction of a second. ‘Man, she really does have such magnificent oppai… I’ve only ever admired them from a safe distance!’

And on the other side of the aisle, Rias’s thoughts were racing just as fast.

‘That’s Hyoudou Issei,’ Rias thought, her brow twitching with subtle intrigue. ‘The infamous pervert of the second-year class… and yet, somehow, he’s casually strolling through town surrounded by…’ Her sharp eyes flicked across the girls standing beside him—Shiraori, Priscilla, and Lala before drifting toward the other aisles where even more stunning women were scattered throughout the shop. ‘…that many extraordinarily gorgeous girls? Since when did he gain an entire entourage?’

Driven by a sudden spark of genuine curiosity, Rias shifted the basket on her arm and took a deliberate step closer.

“Hyoudou Issei-kun, right?” Rias asked, her voice rich, polite, and surprisingly relaxed.

Issei nearly lost his grip on the book he was holding, fumbling it before catching it against his chest. “Y-Yes!” he sputtered out, his face warming up. “I mean—yeah! That’s me, Gremory-senpai.”

She offered him a gentle, faint smile. “I’ve seen you around school sometimes. You really tend to stand out.”

“In… a good way?” Issei asked weakly, rubbing the back of his neck.

Her smile tilted into a vaguely amused smirk. “That really depends on who you ask,” she replied lightly. Her blue-green eyes flicked back to his companions. “Who are the girls with you?”

“Ah, they’re… friends of mine from out of town,” Issei stammered out, offering an explanation that wasn't technically a lie. “I’m just showing them around Kuoh today.” He turned toward the girls, clearing his throat. “Girls, meet my senpai from school.”

Priscilla inclined her head with practiced elegance. “I am Priscilla,” She offered smoothly.

Beside her, Shiraori and Lala simply stared at Rias, completely unblinking, one with crimson eyes, and the other with yellow and black eyes. Both having a deadpan expression.

Issei quickly jumped in before things got weird. “That’s Shiraori and Lala. They… don’t talk a lot and are usually pretty quiet.”

Rias blinked back, mildly unsettled by their intense gaze for a fraction of a second before quickly recovering her composure, being well-accustomed to Koneko’s quiet, stoic staring. “It’s a pleasure. I’m Rias Gremory,” She introduced herself politely. “Hyoudou-kun and I attend the same school. I came here with my friends to check out the latest manga releases.”

Issei gestured toward the loaded shelves. “You… read a lot of manga then, Senpai?”

Rias glanced aside, a faint dusting of pink blooming on her cheeks as she adjusted her posture. “I simply appreciate good storytelling and narrative artistry,” She said, clearing her throat lightly. “And this shop happens to have an exceptionally curated selection.”

Issei chuckled, relaxing slightly. “Yeah, I get that. I come here all the time, the staff probably knows me by name now.” He turned the volume in his hand so she could see the cover. “This one actually just dropped a new volume today. The pacing gets way better after volume three.”

Rias leaned in slightly, her curiosity piqued as she looked at the book. “Oh? You’re familiar with this series as well?”

Before long, the initial awkwardness melted away as the two slipped into a surprisingly easy conversation. They debated the merits of various genres, comparing high fantasy against cozy slice-of-life, and discussing the sprawling world-building of long-running shounen versus tighter, character-driven narratives. Of course, Issei showed and recommended his ecchi genre that had surprisingly deep plot and content.

Lala occasionally chimed in, holding up gruesome covers to softly ask if there were any good horror or gothic series available. Priscilla listened attentively to Issei’s breakdowns, mentally categorizing each genre into categories of “artistic beauty,” “battle tactics,” and “political intrigue.” Shiraori remained silent, her eyes flitting between Issei, Rias, and the book spines as if logging every single word spoken for future reference.

From a few aisles over, Akeno pressed a hand to her lips, watching the interaction with a gleam of pure amusement in her violet eyes. “My, my…” She purred in a delighted whisper. “Rias is chatting so happily about manga with a boy. How very… interesting.”

Koneko, peering over the top of a modern martial arts manual, gave a quiet huff. “Smells like trouble,” She remarked flatly.

Meanwhile, Kiba, standing nearby near the literary classics section, offered a faint, knowing smile as Henrietta politely asked him another question regarding historical Japanese literature, quietly keeping an eye on the intriguing boy at the center of it all.

—-------------------------

Evening, Kuoh Town

After bidding farewell to their unexpected acquaintances in the bookstore, paying for everyone's books, and somehow surviving the absolute, soul-crushing blow to his wallet, Issei led the group toward their final destination for the day.

The sun had long since dipped past the horizon, bathing the streets in a deep amber glow before giving way to the brilliant neon pulse of Kuoh’s nightlife. The sidewalks were far busier now filled with high schoolers heading home, young couples arm-in-arm on dates, and weary salarymen ducking into brightly lit eateries after long shifts.

Despite the growing crowds and the curious stares naturally drawn to a walking parade of otherworldly beauties, the girls remained utterly unfazed. They were full of lively energy, chatting happily among themselves while carefully cradling their newly purchased treasures.

Run was already flipping through the glossy, colorful pages of her shoujo romance manga, completely ignoring the fact that she couldn't read the kanji. "I can't read a single sentence..." She pouted, hugging the volume against her chest with a soft sigh. "...But I already love it."

Henrietta smiled warmly, her tone full of gentle encouragement. "It only gives us a greater reason to study, doesn't it?"

"More importantly, it gives Darling another excuse to spend quality, one-on-one time tutoring us!" Nyaruko corrected with a mischievous, wicked grin, her ahoge twitching in joy.

The realization struck the group, and several girls brightened almost instantly.

"...Private lessons..." Furina muttered thoughtfully, tapping her chin as if envisioning a grand theatrical performance with Issei as her co-star.

"...Reading together..." Asia whispered shyly, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink as she clutched her book close.

"That is an entirely acceptable date," Priscilla agreed softly, her hidden dracon tail would be happily swaying if it was out in the open.

Issei nearly stumbled over his own feet. "Y-You're all making a simple study session sound way more romantic than it actually is!"

Run instantly latched onto his arm, pressing herself close. "But Darling teaching us personally does sound romantic!"

"It really doesn't!" Issei protested, a massive drop of sweat forming behind his head.

"I must disagree—I think it sounds quite lovely," Henrietta added gently, covering her mouth to hide a soft giggle.

Even Kaguya snapped her fan shut with a sharp clack, giving a solemn nod. "For once... the alien makes a valid point. Not that I would need it, of course."

"I HAVE ONCE AGAIN BEEN ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE MOON PRINCESS!" Nyaruko cheered dramatically, throwing her hands in the air. "Mark this day in the calendar!"

As they rounded a bustling street corner, Furina slowed her steps, tilting her head up at him. "So, Issei..."

Issei looked down at her. "Hm? What's up, Furina?"

"You promised me a stage," she stated plainly.

The entire group paused for a moment as memory flared back. Earlier at the Center Plaza, when Furina had been ready to dramatically hijack a street performer’s microphone and claim the plaza as her personal opera house, Issei had managed to drag her away only by promising he would find her a proper venue to perform.

A warm, fond smile touched Issei's lips. "I did."

Furina's dual-colored eyes sparkled with sudden, childlike wonder before she quickly caught herself and smoothed down her coat. "You remembered."

"Of course I did," Issei said proudly, puffing out his chest. "A promise is a promise."

Furina folded her arms, trying desperately to suppress the radiant grin breaking across her face. "Excellent. A true gentleman never breaks his word to a lady of high standing."

Run bounced excitedly beside them, her romance book tucked under her arm. "Where are we going, Darling? Is it a theater? A grand hall?"

Instead of answering out loud, Issei simply grinned and pointed across the street toward a massive, multi-story building. Its towering neon sign pulsed in vibrant shades of magenta, turquoise, and gold against the evening sky: KARAOKE BOX

The girls all tilted their heads in complete, synchronized confusion.

"Kah-rah-oh-ke...?" Asia tested the foreign word on her tongue, glancing up at the flashing lights.

"A box for songs...?" Priscilla murmured, golden-green eyes studying the glowing entrance with deep curiosity.

Issei chuckled, ushering them toward the sliding glass doors. "Welcome to the ultimate stage, Furina. Let's see what you've got."

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

Kuoh Town, Karaoke Box

The automatic doors slid open with a cheerful electronic chime. Cool air greeted them immediately, carrying the mouthwatering aroma of fried chicken, salted potato chips, soda syrup, and fresh buttered popcorn. Television screens mounted near the front counter displayed vibrant music videos, while groups of Kuoh high schoolers and university students laughed and chatted in the lobby waiting for their room assignments.

The receptionist looked up and smiled politely. "Welcome!"

Issei stepped forward to the counter, scratching his cheek as he glanced back at his massive, striking entourage. "A private room for eleven people, please."

"Certainly!" The employee tapped away at her screen. "Room 304 on the third floor is available."

—-----------------

A few minutes later...

After paying for the room, along with soft drinks and several generous platters of party snacks, the group followed the employee up the carpeted stairs.

The moment the heavy soundproof door slid open, nearly everyone froze in complete surprise.

The room was remarkably spacious. Deep, plush couches wrapped around the soundproof walls, and a large widescreen television occupied the front display. Two glowing wireless microphones rested in chargers on the central glass table, while soft RGB lights gently illuminated the ceiling in cycling shades of magenta, turquoise, and violet.

A digital touchscreen song selector sat beside a massive tray filled to the brim with crispy potato chips, french fries, golden fried chicken, butter popcorn, melon soda, orange juice, iced tea, and an assortment of parfait desserts.

Run’s eyes turned into literal stars. "I LOVE THIS!" She practically dove headfirst onto one of the soft leather couches, sinking into the cushions with a blissful sigh. "It's so comfy!!"

Nyaruko immediately bounced in right behind her, her long ahoge twitching like an antenna. "It even comes with snacks!" She snagged a handful of hot french fries before anyone could even think to stop her, tossing them into her mouth with absolute delight.

Meanwhile, Furina stepped into the center of the room, her dual-colored eyes sweeping over the setup. Her dramatic excitement dimmed... only slightly.

"...Hm." She crossed her arms over her chest, trying to maintain her lofty composure. "It is... considerably smaller than I envisioned."

In her head, she had pictured an enormous opera hall with thousands of adoring spectators, thunderous applause echoing off marble pillars, blinding spotlights, and showers of fragrant rose petals. Instead, she had received a cozy, padded room barely large enough for eleven people and a tray of fried food.

Issei noticed her shift in mood immediately. Stepping up beside her, he asked gently, "You okay?"

Furina glanced up at him, a faint pout touching her lips. "...The audience is... somewhat limited."

Issei smiled knowingly. "Maybe." Then, with a soft laugh, he gestured toward everyone else settling onto the couches, Asia looking around in wonder, Priscilla studying the glowing lights, and Shiraori already eyeing the dessert tray. "But they're your audience. And every single one of them is here for you."

Furina paused. She looked around the room, meeting the eyes of the other girls. Every single one of them was watching her expectantly. There was no mockery or judgment in their eyes, only genuine anticipation, curiosity, and warmth, eager to hear her perform.

Slowly, the familiar, radiant confidence returned to her face. "...Very well!"

She walked toward the center of the room with all the grand, theatrical elegance of a prima donna stepping onto the grand stage of the Court of Fontaine. She spun gracefully, the tails of her coat fluttering, before raising one arm dramatically to the ceiling and closing her eyes.

"Behold!" She declared grandly, projecting her voice with captivating flair. "My moment has arrived!"

Run immediately clapped her hands together. "So cool!"

Henrietta giggled softly into her hand, her eyes twinkling. "She truly enjoys performing."

Issei picked up the touchscreen remote from the table and began to explain how everything worked. "So..." He powered on the main television screen. "We pick songs from this menu..." The colorful interface popped up on the display. "...and we sing along with the music." He shrugged with a grin. "That's basically it! I'll set the first few songs to include the original vocal track so you guys get a feel for how the melody goes."

The room fell quiet as everyone absorbed the concept.

Then, Nyaruko lunged forward like a apex predator striking its prey. "MY FIRST SONG SHALL BE A GRAND DECLARATION OF UNCHAINED LOVE DEDICATED TO DARLING—" She snatched one of the glowing microphones triumphantly. " ITS LYRICS SHALL DESCRIBE THE MAGNIFICENCE OF HIS VERY SOUL!"

"Nope! Not happening!" Run launched herself across the couch, snatching at the handle. "Give me that!"

"Waaah! My microphone!" Nyaruko whined, tugging back with her incredible strength.

"I WANT TO SING FIRST!" Run argued, puffing out her cheeks as she pulled with equal stubbornness.

The two immediately began wrestling over the microphone on top of the couch cushions, their chaotic banter echoing off the walls.

Issei pinched the bridge of his nose and let out a heavy sigh. "...We're only thirty seconds in and chaos has already broken out."

Henrietta and Yukina chuckled softly at the familiar sight, used to the chaotic energy of the two by now. While Asia tried to stop the fighting with tears.

Meanwhile, several of the others looked considerably less certain about the glowing equipment.

Karura picked up the second microphone, examining the metal mesh and plastic casing with deep suspicion. "...People voluntarily gather in enclosed spaces to shout into magical sticks?"

"They're not magical," Issei chuckled, shaking his head. "They're electronic. They just amplify your voice through those speakers."

Karura frowned, tapping the top of the mic. "...That's somehow even stranger."

Nearby, Yukina fidgeted nervously with the hem of her sleeve, her crimson eyes wide. "I-I've never... sung in front of people before..."

Asia nodded repeatedly in sympathy, clutching her satchel. "I have, but... only during church hymns and holy mass. This feels completely different..."

Priscilla’s golden-green eyes drifted toward the top corner of the television display. "...There are numerical scores?"

"Yeah, there's a scoring system for competitive singing," Issei explained. "It measures your pitch and rhythm."

Priscilla’s sharp, dragon-hybrid competitive instincts stirred immediately. "...Interesting."

Lala picked up her microphone with a solemn expression, tilting her blue-skinned head thoughtfully. "...Can I remove my head while singing to achieve better acoustics?"

Issei nearly choked on his own breath. "...Please don't. That would terrify the staff if they brought in more drinks."

"Oh." Lala blinked her golden eyes, sounding genuinely disappointed. "A pity."

Henrietta smiled reassuringly at the group, placing a gentle hand over her lap. "It appears this box is meant for lighthearted enjoyment rather than fierce competition."

Issei nodded warmly, looking around at all of them. "Exactly! Nobody has to be amazing or hit perfect notes. You just pick something you like, cut loose, and have fun."

As his words settled in, the remaining awkwardness and tension in the room noticeably eased, replaced by a growing sense of excitement for the night ahead.

—--------------------------------

The first hour in the private karaoke room was absolute chaos.

Every few minutes, someone new would claim the microphone, and with every song, the distinct personality of each singer echoed through the room.

Furina, having gracefully won ownership of the microphone following an intense, micro-wrestling match with Nyaruko, naturally insisted on going first.

The room lights dimmed into a soft, ambient glow, leaving the front of the room framed by the vibrant neon backlight of the television. Furina stood tall, her posture straight, her dual-colored eyes sparkling with quiet grandeur. When the backing track began to play, she closed her eyes, taking a single, measured breath.

The moment she opened her mouth, the room fell into absolute silence.

Her voice flooded the small space with astonishing elegance, rich, velvety, and flawlessly pitched. Every note was controlled with masterclass precision, and every dramatic hand gesture carried the effortless grace of a grand performer. She glided across the carpeted floor as if the cramped box were the grandest stage of the Fontaine Opera House. Her expressions shifted seamlessly with every lyric, projecting heartbreak, triumph, and regal splendor.

When the final note faded into the air, a breath-held silence lingered for a heartbeat. Then the thunderous applause she expected erupted.

Run practically leapt onto the couch, pumping her fist in the air. "THAT WAS AMAZING!!"

Henrietta clapped enthusiastically, her cheeks flushed with delight. "What beautiful control... Such incredible resonance!"

Asia’s green eyes sparkled with pure wonder. "It... it sounded like an angel..."

Even Kaguya offered a dignified, respectful nod, resting her hands over her lap. "...You possess genuine talent, Lady Furina."

Furina offered a sweeping, theater-grade bow, her blue coat fluttering. "I expected nothing less from myself!" She declared dramatically. Behind her theatrical pride, however, her heart swelled with genuine warmth. Her audience might have been small, but every single clap felt entirely sincere.

—----------------------------------

Henrietta volunteered next.

Unlike Furina’s theatrical spectacle, Henrietta stepped forward with quiet modesty. She held the microphone gently in both hands, closed her eyes, and began to sing.

Her voice emerged soft, warm, and refined. It carried a soothing, lullaby-like quality, sounding like a princess quietly singing beneath the moonlight in a peaceful royal garden. She used no dramatic flourishes or sweeping gestures, offering only pure, heartfelt sincerity.

By the time she reached the chorus, several of the girls had relaxed into the cushions, swaying gently to the tender rhythm.

"...Beautiful," Issei whispered, completely mesmerized.

Henrietta lowered the microphone, her face flushing a deep crimson. "T-Thank you, Issei..." she murmured shyly.

—----------------------------------

"My turn!" Run bounced up from her seat.

The atmosphere in the room shifted instantaneously.

Bright, cheerful, and bursting with high-voltage energy, her J-pop performance had everyone clapping along to the beat within seconds. She spun around the room, dancing tirelessly and pointing dramatically directly at Issei during every romantic lyric.

Issei sank into his seat, burying his reddening face in his hands as everyone burst out laughing at his embarrassment.

—----------------------------------

When it was Asia’s turn, she nearly refused outright. "I-I really don't think I can... I've never sung like this before..."

Henrietta gently placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You'll do wonderfully, Asia."

Yukina gave a firm, reassuring nod. "We're all here supporting you."

Issei gave her a warm smile. "No pressure at all. Just have fun with it."

Taking several deep breaths, Asia stepped up to the screen. She selected a gentle, older melody, something reminiscent of a solemn church hymn.

Her soft voice floated delicately through the speakers. It was pure, crystal-clear, and radiating peace. When she hit the final quiet note, the room exploded into enthusiastic cheering.

Asia nearly burst into tears of relief, hiding her blushing cheeks behind her sleeve. "...T-Thank you, everyone..."

—----------------------------------

Yukina quietly accepted the microphone next.

Given her usual quiet, disciplined demeanor, nobody quite knew what to expect.

Then she began. Her voice was ethereal, soft, clear, and hauntingly sweet, like fresh snowfall drifting through silent mountains. The room seemed to cool down and quiet itself just to listen to her.

When the song finished, Nyaruko leaned forward and pointed an accusing finger at her. "...Okay. Where were you hiding THAT voice?!"

Yukina turned bright red, nervously pulling at her collar. "I-I don't know..."

—----------------------------------

Nyaruko, naturally, ignored emotional ballads entirely.

"I SHALL SING THE GREATEST ANIME OPENINGS EVER CREATED!" she bellowed into the room.

Nobody could stop her. She blasted through hyper-active opening theme after opening theme with boundless cosmic energy. Half the lyrics were punctuated by exaggerated battle poses, imaginary sword swings, and mouth-made explosion noises. She single-handedly transformed a casual karaoke box into a live-action tokusatsu battleground.

Unfortunately, she forgot that microphones actively amplified sound.

"MY SOUL BURNS BRIGHTER THAN A SUPERNOVA—!!" she screamed into the mic.

Half the girls covered their ears in shock, while Issei laughed so hard he nearly slid off the couch entirely.

—----------------------------------

Karura took the stage next a bit unsure. Her sharp black and yellow eyes darted nervously across the room as she held the sleek, plastic karaoke microphone with both hands.

Seeing her hesitation, the room immediately erupted into a wave of enthusiastic encouragement.

“You’ve got this, Karura!” Issei called out, leaning forward on the couch with a bright, encouraging grin. “Just throw yourself into it and have fun!”

Nyaruko aggressively pumped her fists in the air from Issei’s side. “Yeah! Show that microphone whose boss!”

Karura blinked, her black and yellow eyes locking onto Issei’s beaming expression. A faint, unmistakable blush dusted her cheeks. She tilted her head, her tone entirely earnest and completely devoid of filter as her voice echoed through the speakers.

“Issei,” she asked loudly, her voice ringing out with confidence, “if I perform, will it put you in the proper mood to sire strong, healthy children with me?”

“PFFFT!” Issei instantly choked on his own air, his face turning as red. He coughed frantically into his fist, waving his hands in a flustered panic while the rest of the room reacted with a mix of smirks and eye-rolls.

“I—I mean—!” Issei stammered out, rubbing the back of his burning neck while trying desperately to keep his composure. “I’d just... I’d just be really happy to see you join in on the fun with everyone!”

A bright, brilliant smile broke across Karura’s face. “Then I shall deliver a victory!”

The backing track began to play, a loud, high-tempo, energetic battle anthem. Karura didn't possess the refined vocal mastery of the rest. Her singing was raw, untamed, and completely unpolished, often wildly off-key whenever the rhythm spiked.

But what she lacked in vocal control, she made up for with pure, unadulterated passion.

She threw her whole heart into the music. Enjoying the rare, peaceful warmth of a carefree activity away from combat. It was infectious, loud, and utterly delightful.

The room erupted into deafening cheers and applause, with Issei clapping the loudest of all. Karura beamed with genuine pride with her head held high, having completely won over the household with joyful energy.

—----------------------------------

Kaguya refused repeatedly. "I will not. Absolutely not. Singing frivolously before an audience is entirely beneath a princess of my blood."

After five continuous minutes of everyone trying to convince her, Issei casually leaned back and offered an offhand comment. "You know, you actually have a really nice speaking voice."

Kaguya froze in place. "...What?"

"It's elegant and really pleasant to listen to," Issei said with a simple shrug. "I bet you'd sing beautifully if you tried and I would be kind of sad not to hear it."

Silence blanketed the room. Everyone slowly turned their heads to watch her reaction.

Kaguya’s cheeks slowly dusted over in a brilliant crimson. "T-That is..." She snapped her fan open to hide her face, looking away. "...entirely irrelevant."

But a minute later, she quietly accepted the microphone.

"I shall demonstrate proper vocal technique," She declared, clearing her throat with practiced dignity.

And she delivered. Flawless pitch, perfect rhythmic control, graceful breathing, and elegant pronunciation. Even Furina looked visibly impressed, nodding along with artistic appreciation.

When the track ended, the room exploded into thunderous applause.

Kaguya quickly thrust the microphone back onto the table. "...That is all," She huffed, crossing her arms. But the tiny, proud smile she failed to hide betrayed her complete satisfaction.

—----------------------------------

Then there was… Lala. Nobody was prepared for what happened next. Least of all Issei.

With a calm, solemn expression, Lala casually detached her own head from her neck and set it neatly on the low coffee table facing the screen. Her headless body remained seated comfortably on the sofa, tapping one foot rhythmically to the musical beat, while her head sang directly into the microphone resting beside it.

Her voice sounded perfectly normal, full-bodied and pleasant.

Everyone in the room stared in stunned, unblinking silence.

"..."

"..."

Issei pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling a massive headache coming on. "...I really, really hope the staff don't walk in with our refill drinks right now."

Furina offered a polite, somewhat bewildered applause. "...A remarkably unique staging choice!"

Lala’s head gave a pleased smile from the table. "Thank you."

—-----------------------------------

Priscilla surprised everyone.

She had remained sitting quietly in the corner all evening, observing the scoring interface with subtle eyes. But when she accepted the microphone, her voice resonated low, rich, and intensely powerful. It felt like an ancient ballad echoing through forgotten, snow-dusted mountains.

The entire room fell dead quiet.

Even Nyaruko froze mid-bite with a handful of french fries hovering near her mouth. "...Whoa."

Run blinked repeatedly, in complete awe. "Priscilla... you're incredible!"

Priscilla calmly set the microphone back onto its charging stand, her golden-green eyes serene. "I simply sang what felt appropriate."

"...Please do that again later," Asia requested softly as she wanted to hear more.

Priscilla offered a faint, peaceful smile. "...Perhaps later when it's my turn again."

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

Throughout all of this, Shiraori never touched a microphone.

Instead, she sat quietly nestled between Issei and Priscilla on the soft couch. A cold glass of melon soda was cupped in both of her pale hands, and she sipped it slowly through a straw while watching the performance. Her crimson, multi-pupiled eyes reflected the ambient flash of colorful light overhead.

Occasionally, someone would cheer, someone would burst into laughter, or someone would hit a terrible note.

Shiraori simply offered a small, quiet, and deeply content smile. She didn't need to sing. Simply watching the people she cared about having fun together was more than enough.

—----------------------------------

Before anyone realized how fast time was flying, two whole hours had passed.

The platters of fries, chicken, and snacks were nearly polished off, and empty glasses littered the table. Their throats were hoarse from laughing and singing, their cheeks hurt from smiling, and nobody truly wanted the night to end.

Eventually, the room lights brightened automatically, signaling the conclusion of their time slot.

Reluctantly gathering their belongings and shopping bags, the group filed out of the room and back into the cool evening hallway. As they stepped outside the building, a fresh night breeze greeted them.

Furina placed a hand dramatically over her heart, wiping away a non-existent tear. "...What a moving debut performance," she sniffed theatrically. "I thank my beloved audience for witnessing history in the making."

Run immediately latched onto Issei’s arm with a bright beam. "Darling! Let's come back here every week!"

Issei laughed nervously, mentally mourning the state of his completely empty wallet. "We'll... we'll see..."

Asia clasped her hands together, her smile brighter than it had been all day. "I-It was so much fun..." she said, looking genuinely amazed. "I never imagined... something so simple could bring everyone this much joy."

Priscilla glanced back at the neon sign of the karaoke building one last time, a gentle expression softening her features. "...This was very nice."

Henrietta nodded warmly. "I have never experienced anything quite like this in my life."

"It was... strangely intimate," Karura remarked with an approving smirk.

Kaguya folded her arms, trying to regain her regal composure. "...It was..." She paused, feeling everyone's eyes on her, before quickly looking away with a blush. "...adequate."

Nyaruko instantly burst out laughing. "Princess! You were smiling the entire time!"

"I was not!" Kaguya argued, her fan twitching.

"You totally were!" Nyaruko teased relentlessly.

"I merely tolerated the experience for the sake of the group!" Kaguya huffed, her face growing hotter.

"Sure you did~"

Beside them, Shiraori gave a quiet, single nod of approval.

Issei looked around at the bustling circle of girls surrounding him.

They were exhausted but glowing with happiness, talking over one another, laughing, teasing, clutching their newly purchased books, and already arguing over what songs they would practice for next time.

A genuine warmth flooded his chest as he realized how remarkably close they had all become, despite originating from vastly different worlds and cultures.

'Yeah… this is completely insane,' Issei thought, his grip tightening comfortably around the heavy shopping bag filled with their books. ' Can’t believe I'm spending my evenings guiding girls from entirely different dimensions through Kuoh... watching them discover bookstores, arcades, karaoke, and everything Earth has to offer. It's exhausting, and completely wrecks my wallet...' He looked over at their smiling faces under the warm glow of the city streetlights. '...But seeing them like this? I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.'

Done. Tell me what you think and what should happen next? Tell me if something is wrong or incorrect. What’s next for the group? Be free to tell me your ideas.