Gacha Harem King DxD

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Thanks for the chapter

 

[Isano]

The long dining table stretched beneath the soft glow of golden chandeliers. Candles flickered in the corners of the vast hall, their light glimmering over silverware and polished plates. The aroma of roasted meat, seasoned vegetables, and fresh bread filled the air.

Issei sat near the center, surrounded by his harem, Nyaruko, Kaguya, Evangeline, Priscilla, Shiraori, Henrietta, Lala, Furina, Run, Karura, and Yukina. It was a surreal sight: a table filled with women from countless worlds, eating together as if they were an ordinary family.

Behind them, by the large carved doorway, the two maids, Kalawarna and Raynare stood silently, their posture impeccable, watching over the scene like sentinels awaiting orders.

The first sound to break the tranquil hum of dining was Issei's satisfied sigh as he set his chopsticks down. "Man… this is amazing."

Nyaruko nodded eagerly, her mouth still half full. "Mmm! Darling's right! This is pretty good food!"

Henrietta smiled softly, her hands folded neatly before her. "Most of the credit belongs to Miss Raynare. She did the majority of the work. Yukina and I only assisted her as best as we could. It was a… new experience."

Yukina nodded shyly, her crimson eyes flickering toward Issei. "I've never really cooked before… but she was patient with us. It was fun."

Issei blinked, genuinely surprised. "Wait, Raynare made this?"

The maid in question straightened, her expression calm but with the faintest hint of pride. "Yes, Master. Though the young ladies were very helpful. I merely guided them."

Lala blinked, head resting against her hands. "You're really talented."

Raynare's lips curved just barely upward. "Thank you Mistress Lala. Though I do wonder how you're even able to eat?"

"Right, I keep watching and it's freaking me out!" Issei said with a sweatdrop with many girls nodding along. "Still, thank you. This is really great. But why are you two standing there? Come, sit with us."

Kalawarna and Raynare both blinked, their expressions softening but uncertain. The former cleared her throat delicately. "Master, it would be improper. We are your servants. It would not be right for us to dine beside you."

Raynare nodded, her tone formal. "We will eat later, after ensuring you have everything you need."

Issei frowned, glancing between them. "C'mon, I'm not big on that etiquette stuff. You've been working hard all day, you deserve to—"

A sharp clack echoed as Kaguya kicked him from under the table. "Enough, husband," She said, her regal tone commanding the table's attention. "A proper household maintains order. Servants serve; masters lead. Do not diminish their roles."

Issei sighed, shoulders sagging as he muttered under his breath, "There's just no arguing with you…"

Priscilla, sitting beside him, smirked faintly. "A wise decision. One learns when to pick their battles, Issei."

The others chuckled quietly, though Nyaruko whispered something about "boring old rules" under her breath.

Once the light laughter faded, conversation naturally drifted back to the day's events.

"So…" Henrietta leaned forward with wonder. "How did that little meeting with the devils go?"

Issei rubbed the back of his neck, chuckling awkwardly. "Ah, yeah. It was basically an interrogation. Sona, the president of my school, just wanted to know who we were, what we were doing in her territory, that sort of stuff."

Karura huffed. "Hmph. If they wanted answers, they could've tried to fight for them. Talk is cheap."

Kaguya shot her a sharp look but said nothing.

Issei continued, smiling faintly. "Anyway, it's all handled for now. Oh, and I asked her for a favor."

Evangeline arched a brow, swirling the red liquid in her glass. "Allowinng those devils to request anything from us was truly a foolish move. You do have a talent for making things complicated."

"Hey, it's a good one this time!" Issei said defensively, raising his hands and then turned to Henrietta and Yukina. "I asked her to let some of you join my school. You know, experience being students, blend in a little."

Henrietta blinked. "Join… your school?"

Issei nodded. "Yeah. You might like it. It's calm, normal. A chance to live like regular girls."

Yukina's eyes widened slightly, her chopsticks pausing halfway to her mouth. "A… regular girl…" She whispered the words as though they were something precious, something she'd never imagined for herself. Then, slowly, she nodded, a small smile forming. "If… it's allowed… I'd like that."

Henrietta smiled, her eyes soft but curious. "It would be… interesting. To learn how your world's education works. I accept as well."

But Shiraori, sitting quietly beside them, did not share their enthusiasm. Her head quickly shook, signaling a no, her eerie red eyes reflecting the candlelight.

Issei understood and sweatdropped, rubbing his temple. "Yeah, I kinda figured you'd say that…" He then started counting on his fingers, "Nyaruko, Run, Henrietta, and Yukina will be joining. Anyone else?"

The table went quiet again. Evangeline yawned pointedly, looking away. Kaguya looked completely disinterested. Lala was too busy staring at a glowing spider silk thread hanging from the ceiling. Karura just shook her head. Furina though looked conflicted as she didn't know if she should or not..

Issei chuckled weakly. "Right, right… guess that's a no."

But before the lighthearted mood could settle, Kaguya's sharp voice cut through the table's hum.

"If you girls are going to that devil infested school I would like you to remember this." She said as her gaze swept across the four who had agreed to join. "Those devils will be watching you. They will use this opportunity to learn about us. Be careful what you say, and above all, do not mention the system that binds our husband."

Her words carried authority, and even Nyaruko's grin faltered.

Run gave a short nod, her tone unusually serious. "Understood. I know how to keep my mouth shut when it counts."

Henrietta looked thoughtful, nodding slowly. "We will be careful."

Yukina clasped her hands in her lap, her expression firm despite her shyness. "…We won't cause trouble."

Issei gave them an encouraging smile. "That's all I ask. Just… enjoy yourselves, okay? Have fun with it. I'll tell Sona-kaicho tomorrow and hopefully you'll be allowed to join by next week. "

Kaguya's eyes softened briefly. "You always say such simple things, husband… but sometimes, simplicity hides wisdom."

Issei blinked. "Uh… thanks? I think?"

The girls giggled softly as dinner continued, the tension easing once more.

The chatter around the table had softened into a comfortable hum as dinner drew to an end. The plates were mostly empty, the air filled with the faint scent of roasted herbs and sweet tea. Issei leaned back in his chair, hands resting on his stomach, feeling pleasantly full for the first time that day.

That peace lasted all of thirty seconds.

Evangeline dabbed her lips delicately with a napkin before setting it down, her blue eyes glinting under the chandelier light. "Now that we're finished," She said, her tone cool and matter-of-fact, "we'll resume your training."

Issei froze mid-sigh, eyes widening. "Eh?! Again?!"

The vampire gave him a knowing smirk. "Yes. You didn't think we'd let your power stagnate, did you? Now that your Sacred Gear has evolved, and know that we know more about it, you're barely scratching its potential. You need to train if you want to control it properly."

Issei groaned, letting his forehead drop into his hands. "Man… I knew this was coming. Every time you say 'training,' I end up getting punched, electrocuted, or launched across the floor…"

"Consider it motivation," Evangeline replied smoothly.

From across the table, Karura leaned forward, her golden eyes gleaming with excitement. "Then I'll join." Her grin was sharp and hungry. "I want to test myself, get stronger and maybe learn something new. I also want my husband to grow stronger. The stronger we are, the stronger our children will be."

"I really doubt that is how it works?!" Issei groaned, slumping deeper into his chair.

Evangeline ignored his complaint and turned her sharp gaze toward the rest of the women. "What about the rest of you? I have no issue taking on more students. The training grounds are large enough."

Lala lifted her head, her long white hair brushing against her shoulders. "I'll join. I'd like to see what passes for strength in this world."

Priscilla set her glass down and gave a small nod. "Training sharpens the body and the mind. I'll participate."

Furina raised her hand dramatically, a playful grin spreading across her lips. "Then count me in! This is the perfect time to make a grand performance of power. It sounds delightful!"

Nyaruko shot up with a wide grin. "Training with Darling?! Of course I'm coming! I'll protect him from getting hurt~"

Issei glanced at her suspiciously. "You mean you'll cause most of the trouble, right?"

Nyaruko's grin only widened. "No promises~"

Evangeline chuckled softly, clearly amused by the chaos she had just invited. "Good. The rest of you?"

Kaguya exhaled through her nose, shaking her head with quiet disdain. "Fighting and rolling in dirt? Hardly something I find appealing. I'll pass."

Henrietta smiled politely, setting down her utensils. "I must decline as well. I am not a warrior. I can wield magic, but I do not find joy in battle."

Beside her, Yukina nodded quickly, clutching her hands to her chest. "I-I'm not really good at fighting either… I'd rather help in other ways."

Shiraori tilted her head slightly, but then shook her head in the negative again.

Run leaned lazily against her hand, smiling. "Same here. Besides, I'd rather spend my evening getting fitted for some new clothes."

That last comment caught Kaguya's attention. The exiled princess turned toward Shiraori, looking at her eagerly. "Speaking of which… Shiraori, might I request a few garments of my own? Your craftsmanship is quite exquisite from what I observed.."

Run brightened, sitting up straight. "Ooh, me too! I want something cute! The quality of what you made for Yukina and Henrietta is amazing."

All eyes turned to Shiraori, who blinked once before giving a faint, pleasant smile and started to eagerly shake her head in the positive.

Run clapped her hands together with a grin. "Perfect!"

Kaguya inclined her head gracefully. "You have my gratitude."

The mood at the table lightened again, and conversation scattered into smaller pockets—some teasing, some planning, some casual banter that echoed faintly off the castle's high walls.

Evangeline rose from her seat, her long hair shimmering faintly in the candlelight. "Very well, then. Those joining the training meet me in the dojo after an hour. Rest while you can." She turned her blue eyes toward Issei, smirking. "And you, boy—try not to die this time."

Issei slumped in defeat. "Why do you always make it sound like I might?!"

Karura chuckled deeply, stretching her arms. "If you die, I'll just bring you back for another round."

"That doesn't help!"

Nyaruko laughed, tugging at his sleeve. "Come on, Darling! Think of it as a bonding experience!"

Furina twirled on her heel dramatically. "Then I shall perform a spectacle of strength and grace!"

Priscilla gave a soft smile, her calm voice grounding the chaos. "I'll make sure you survive."

As the laughter and chatter echoed through the grand dining hall, the group began to rise one by one, each heading toward their own tasks—some to prepare for training, others to seek Shiraori's skill with silk, and a few simply to rest after the long day.

Issei lingered for a moment, glancing around the lively hall with a quiet smile. Then his eyes fell on Evangeline, who was already disappearing down the corridor, her voice faintly echoing back toward him.

"Don't keep me waiting, Issei. Your real training begins tonight."

Issei sighed deeply, rubbing his temple. "Yeah, great. Pain, screaming, and exhaustion… my favorite." But even as he grumbled, a faint smile tugged at his lips. And with that, he followed the others into the castle's winding halls.

—--------------------------------
The soft light of the hanging lanterns bathed the dojo in a warm, amber glow. The polished wooden floor reflected their silhouettes.

Issei sat cross-legged on a mat near the center, looking nervously at the woman standing in front of them. Evangeline's pale skin caught the light like porcelain, her blue eyes sharp, while her long blond hair framed her face in perfect stillness. Beside her stood Raynare in her black-and-white maid uniform, her expression composed.

Issei raised his hand weakly, glancing between them. "Um, not that I'm complaining or anything, but… why's Raynare here?"

Raynare bowed gracefully. "Lady Evangeline requested my assistance. I am here to help in Lady Evangeline's lesson."

"Lesson?" Issei repeated, blinking.

Evangeline's lips curved faintly, a flash of amusement glinting in her eyes. "Yes, lesson. Tonight we will not have a spar, no punches, no running laps, no screaming about pain or exhaustion."

Nyaruko immediately leaned toward Issei with a wide grin. "Hehe~ You hear that, Darling? No pain this time! Maybe this'll be the first lesson you survive throughout the night!"

Issei slumped. "Gee, thanks for the encouragement…"

Evangeline ignored them and turned to face the group. "Today, we focus on something else entirely. It's about time you learned the basics of magic."

The reaction was immediate.

"Magic?!" Lala blinked, holding her detached head close in surprise. "But I can't use magic."

"Nor can I," Karura said bluntly, crossing her arms. "In my world, magic is nothing but a tale told to fools and charlatans."

Nyaruko raised her hand like an eager student. "Same here! I'm more of a cosmic entity of chaos, not a magician!"

Priscilla tilted her head, her calm golden-green eyes thoughtful. "I possess magic energy in my body… but I've never been taught formal spells."

And then, of course, Furina couldn't resist making her presence known. She placed a hand on her hip, striking a dramatic pose. "Well, I am a master of Hydro manipulation, you know. Water bends to my will with divine grace! So yes, I'd say I already have that part covered."

Issei scratched his cheek nervously. "You know, Evangeline, I'm pretty sure you once told me I was hopeless when it came to magic."

Evangeline gave him a look, half teasing, half serious. "Oh, you are. Completely talentless."

"Hey!"

"But," She continued smoothly, "even the talentless can learn something. It's better to have a weak flame than no flame at all. With practice, you might even become… decent."

Issei sighed dramatically. "Great. That totally fills me with confidence."

Ignoring his sarcasm, Evangeline motioned for them to listen. "Now, before we begin, I want to share something I noticed earlier. It concerns Lala and Priscilla."

Both women blinked, exchanging a look.

"When Raynare demonstrated that transformation spell for disguising your true appearance." Evangeline went on, "you two learned it surprisingly fast. Neither of you should have been capable of casting magic that easily, yet after a few tries, you performed it almost perfectly. That shouldn't have been possible."

Lala tilted her head, her long white hair swaying. "Oh… right. I just followed what she said, and it worked. I thought it was normal."

Priscilla nodded. "The process felt natural. I didn't have to force the magic out; it simply… obeyed."

Evangeline folded her arms, eyes narrowing in thought. "Exactly. Which is why I'm curious. Lala," she said, turning to the Dullahan, "how did you manage to cast a spell if you claim you have no magic?"

Lala opened her mouth, paused, and blinked. "…I… actually don't know."

The group exchanged glances.

Evangeline turned back to them, her tone thoughtful. "That's what concerns me. Somehow, all of us, the summoned girls, have gained abilities we didn't possess in our original worlds." Her words hung in the dojo like the toll of a distant bell.

Karura frowned, flexing her fingers as if feeling for energy in her body. "So you're saying this world gave us magic?" She asked slowly. "Or is it because we're not truly the same versions of ourselves who existed before?" She looked down at her hands. "In my world, power like this was a fantasy. I could only dream of strength like that."

Evangeline shrugged, her expression unreadable. "Possibly. It could be a side effect of the summoning process, the system that brought us here might have reconstructed us in a way that integrates this world's laws of magic."

Raynare stepped forward, her tone measured but curious. "Or perhaps it's a consequence of being bound to Hyoudou Issei, a link between worlds… rewriting what you are to fit this realm's balance."

The group went quiet, each girl processing that in her own way.

Furina tapped her chin thoughtfully. "So, what you're saying is that the system granted us more than just a body, it enhanced us." She smiled dramatically, spinning once. "Then I suppose it's only natural that I'm even more magnificent here than before!"

Issei smiled wishing he had a bit of her confidence. "You really can't go two minutes without bragging, can you?" He then looked back to Evangeline.

Evangeline smiled faintly. "Whether it's this world's law, the system, or Shub-Niggurath herself… it means you all have more potential than you realize."

Then her blue eyes sharpened again, that familiar edge of command returning. "So. Let's see what kind of magic this world has gifted you. Everyone sit down. Cross your legs and with your hands make a circle. Back straight and close your eyes."

Meanwhile Raynare stepped forward beside her, holding a glowing pink orb of light that pulsed faintly in her hands as an example of what they are about to do. "You all possess latent energy inside you. The key is to listen to your own body as Magic comes from within."

"Sounds simple enough!" Nyaruko said cheerfully, already sitting cross-legged but wiggling impatiently.

"It isn't," Raynare replied dryly, eyeing her. "Focus your breathing. Slowly. Deeply. Draw your awareness inward. Picture your energy flowing from your core, like water or fire spreading through your veins."

Furina tilted her head dramatically, already posing with one hand raised as if on stage. "Ah yes, the flow of power! The rhythm of the self! I can already feel the music of my inner brilliance!"

"Sit down," Evangeline said flatly.

Furina frowned but obeyed, mumbling about "audiences that lacked appreciation."

Lala had placed her head in her lap, her calm eyes glowing faintly. "I don't know if last time was a fluke but I'll try."

Evangeline arched a brow. "That's a strange sentence, even for you. But proceed."

Issei peeked at her from under one eye. "Uh, how will we know if it's working?"

"You'll feel it," Raynare said calmly. "It's different for everyone. Some sense warmth, others tingling. For me, it feels like light gathering in my chest before spreading outward."

"Feels like heartburn to me," Issei muttered, earning a light kick from Nyaruko, who hissed, "Quiet, Darling! You'll ruin my concentration!"

A few minutes passed in silence—at least, relative silence. There were soft murmurs of breath, faint hums of energy, and the occasional grumble from Issei about his legs falling asleep.

Evangeline watched them quietly, her blue eyes soft but sharp. "Now… tell me what you sense."

"I feel… something," Priscilla said softly, her eyes still closed. "Like a faint fire in my chest. Gentle… but alive."

Raynare smiled faintly. "Good. That's your mana stirring."

Evangeline nodded approvingly. "I think that would be a Fire affinity, then. Fitting for a dragon."

"Ugh… all I feel is static," Issei muttered, rubbing his head. "Like I'm sitting on a broken washing machine."

Evangeline pinched the bridge of her nose. "That's… progress. Somehow."

"Hey!"

Karura frowned deeply, her hands resting on her knees. "I feel a tingling sensation. Like electricity is coursing through me."

Evangeline put on a thoughtful face. "I believe you have a lightning affinity."

Karura smirked. "Really? Sounds fun."

Meanwhile, Nyaruko's eyes snapped open, glowing faintly silver. "Ooooh, mine's weird! It's like a bunch of buzzing little stars! They're spinning everywhere!"

Raynare blinked. "That's? I'm not sure it even is magic, but… impressive, I suppose."

"Ha! I'm special!" Nyaruko declared proudly.

Evangeline sighed. "Yes, very. Now stop shaking the floor with your excitement."

Lala blinked slowly, looking down at her lap where her head rested. "Mine feels… dark. Like smoke drifting around me."

"Interesting," Raynare murmured, making mental notes. "Possibly an affinity with darkness."

Furina opened her eyes with a flourish. "Mine was obvious, wasn't it? A cool current flowing through my body, smooth and divine. The grace of Hydro herself! My magic is perfection!"

Evangeline deadpanned, "If it's perfection, then please demonstrate it without flooding the castle."

Furina pouted but said nothing, quietly tracing glowing blue droplets in the air.

Priscilla's calm voice broke through next. "I think I understand the sensation now."

Evangeline nodded. "Good. Keep it flowing, but don't overdo it. Mana exhaustion is real."

Issei still sat frowning, his brow furrowed in concentration. He could feel… something, faint and distant, pulsing deep in his chest. Like a slow heartbeat echoing from inside himself. 'Who?'

A faint, deep rumble echoed in his mind. (So, you finally noticed, partner? Honestly I have received such a weird partner this time.)

"Hey! I'm not weird!" Issei spoke out.

Evangeline arching a brow in confusion. "Talking to yourself, Issei?"

"N-No! Just… um… meditating extra hard!"

Karura chuckled. "You're really hopeless."

Evangeline smirked faintly but clapped her hands again to draw everyone's focus. "Alright, that's enough for now. You've each found your center—or at least tripped over it. With more practice, you'll be able to channel your energy outward."

Nyaruko raised her hand excitedly. "Can I shoot mine like a laser?"

Evangeline sighed. "If you do that indoors, I'll freeze you in place for a week."

"Noted!" Nyaruko said while lowering her hand with a pout.

Evangeline then clapped her hands again, the sharp sound echoing through the dojo and pulling everyone's attention back to her. The faint light of the lanterns flickered, casting long shadows on the polished wood as her crimson eyes gleamed with authority.

"Now that you've found your magical cores," She said, pacing slowly before them, "It's time to see what you're actually capable of. You're going to bring out your element, whatever you felt stirring inside. Don't think, just let the energy flow out and manifest."

Raynare stepped to the side, crossing her arms, her violet eyes sweeping over the students. "Focus on your will. Picture the sensation you felt earlier and give it shape."

Issei and the girls started to concentrate, thickening the air. Each of them sitting down on a loose circle.

"Alright," Evangeline said, "show me what you can do."

The first to produce something was Priscilla. The dragon woman took a calm breath, her eyes fluttering shut. Heat shimmered faintly around her fingers, then—fwoosh!—a vivid orange flame burst to life, swirling into a large spiral of fire. It burned bright and pure, dancing with power but never losing control.

Issei's eyes widened. "Whoa… that's awesome, Priscilla!"

She gave a small, serene smile. "It seems I still remember the heart of the flame."

"Impressive control," Evangeline remarked, nodding. "And good restraint. You'd be surprised how many burn their eyebrows off the first time."

Nyaruko giggled. "Ohhhh! OH! My turn! I'll make it more exciting!"

Before anyone could stop her, chaotic energy exploded around her hands. In the span of three seconds, a burst of wind became a jet of water, which turned into flickering embers, then flashing arcs of lightning. The cycle repeated in a dazzling, completely uncoordinated loop.

"Woohoo! Look, Darling! I'm a magical disco ball!"

Issei ducked instinctively as a stray spark shot past his face. "Could you not aim at me?!"

Raynare's hand flew to her forehead. "Her energy output is… impossible to classify."

"Call it what it is," Evangeline said flatly. "Pure chaos."

Nyaruko grinned proudly. "Thank you!"

The next to was Lala. The Dullahan's detached head rested gently on legs while her body raised its hands, black mist curling between her fingers. A low hum filled the room as tendrils of darkness spiraled outward, thick and smooth like liquid shadow.

Lala's head blinked in her lap, eyes wide with childlike wonder. "Look! Darkness! It's so soft and pretty!"

Karura raised an eyebrow. "Pretty? That's one word for it."

Evangeline tilted her head, genuinely intrigued. "Shadow manipulation. Rare and surprisingly stable for a beginner. Well done."

"Thank you!" Lala's body bowed politely while her head continued to look at her magic with enthusiasm.

Then it was Karura's turn. She cracked her knuckles, golden eyes burning with excitement. "Alright. My turn."

She exhaled sharply and brought her hands together, her focus narrowing. Sparks crackled between her palms, small at first, then bursting into bright blue arcs of electricity that snapped and hissed through the air.

"Ha!" She thrust her hand forward, sending a small bolt dancing across the floor, lighting up the dojo in a flash of electric blue.

Issei whistled. "Okay, that's way cooler than whatever mine's gonna be."

Evangeline nodded as she was impressed how she quickly integrated it with her martial arts.

Finally, all eyes turned to Issei. The young man swallowed, feeling every gaze on him. He looked down at his own hands, trying to summon the same focus he'd seen from the others. 'Alright, Issei… you've got a dragon inside you, a gauntlet that can double your power, and an entire harem watching. No pressure.'

He inhaled slowly, reaching for the faint warmth he'd felt earlier in his chest. "Alright," Issei muttered quietly. "Let's do this."

For a moment, nothing happened. Then, a flicker of red light pulsed from his palm. A tiny flame, no larger than a candle's appeared, wavering unsteadily.

He stared at it, a mix of relief and disappointment crossing his face. "...That's it? Seriously?"

Nyaruko blinked. "Aww, it's so cute!"

"Don't call my fire cute!"

Karura chuckled, electricity still crackling faintly along her arms. "Size doesn't matter, husband. What counts is that it burns your enemy."

Evangeline walked up to him, her blue eyes sharp but faintly amused. "It's weak, yes—but it's still a start. Even a flicker can become an inferno with time."

Issei scratched his cheek, sighing. "Guess I've got a long way to go…"

Raynare smiled softly from the side. "Don't underestimate the smallest spark. It's often the one that burns the longest."

Furina, meanwhile, stood with her arms crossed and an overly smug grin. "Hmph. I didn't even need to show mine. You've all seen perfection before—it would be unfair to outshine you."

Evangeline rolled her eyes. "Or maybe you just can't focus long enough to light a candle."

Furina gasped dramatically, clutching her chest. "How dare you! I am the Hydro Archon of elegance! I simply choose my moments!"

The group chuckled, the dojo's once-serious atmosphere melting into laughter and playful banter. Evangeline, standing near the center of the dojo with her arms crossed, surveyed the group with the faintest of smiles. "You're all starting to grasp the basics. But before we end tonight, there's one last lesson."

Issei groaned, his shoulders slumping. "Wait, there's more?"

"Of course," She said lightly, as if it were obvious. "You didn't think I'd let you off that easily, did you? This next one's a technique you'll actually find useful outside of combat magic. Something to enhance your physical capabilities to inhuman levels."

That got everyone's attention. Even Nyaruko stopped bouncing in place.

"The process is simple," Evangeline continued, clasping her hands behind her back as she began to pace. "You take the magic you've just learned to harness, and you pour it into specific parts of your body, your arms, your legs, your core. It strengthens the muscles, hardens reflexes, and heightens movement speed. Think of it as… controlled enhancement."

Raynare stepped forward beside her. "It's dangerous if done wrong," She added in a calm, teacher-like tone. "Too much energy and you'll burn through your reserves—or worse, strain your body to the point of tearing muscle."

Issei's brow furrowed nervously. "So, uh… basically, don't explode myself?"

"Precisely," Evangeline said sweetly.

She gestured to her own legs, and faint traces of glowing red light began to gather around them. "Now watch carefully."

Before anyone could blink, Evangeline vanished.

A rush of air swept through the room, followed by the faintest whisper of movement. The group looked around in confusion—except for Priscilla, whose golden-green eyes narrowed, following the motion with precision.

"She's behind us," The dragoness said calmly.

Everyone turned just as Evangeline reappeared, leaning casually against the wall with her arms crossed, her smile razor-sharp.

"See?" she said. "A simple infusion of mana into your limbs, paired with control and focus. That is the essence of physical enhancement magic."

"Simple, she says…" Issei muttered.

But the awe in the room was palpable.

Priscilla stepped forward first, her expression calm and determined. "I see. So the principle lies in flow, not force." Her body shimmered faintly with heat as red mana surged through her limbs. Then—fwsh!—she vanished in a blur, reappearing near the far end of the room with a gust of wind.

Evangeline's eyes widened slightly, impressed. "Oh! As expected of a dragon. They truly are fast learners."

Next was Furina. The Hydro Archon grinned, flipping her hair dramatically. "Of course I can do that! I was born for grace and movement!" She took a deep breath, letting pale blue energy flow through her legs. Her form flickered once, twice—and then she glided across the dojo floor like a dancer, leaving a trail of shimmering water droplets in her wake.

"Perfection!" She announced, striking a pose. "I'm magnificent even at high speed!"

Issei blinked. "Okay… that was actually kinda cool."

Evangeline sighed but nodded. "Not bad for someone who won't stop monologuing."

The next few attempts were… less graceful.

Nyaruko focused intensely, silver sparks flickering around her. "Alright, let's see… power into my legs and—WHOOSH!" She shot forward so fast that a gust of air knocked over one of the practice dummies. "Ha! Look at me go! Wooho—OH NO!"

In her enthusiasm, she'd grabbed Lala's detached head and started sprinting around the room, laughing like a maniac.

"NYARUKO, GIVE THAT BACK!" Lala's voice echoed furiously from her body, which immediately bolted after her, dark energy trailing behind it. The scene devolved into pure chaos as the headless body chased Nyaruko in circles, both moving faster with each lap.

Issei rubbed his forehead. "Why do I even try to expect her to behave?"

Evangeline pinched the bridge of her nose. "Because you haven't learned yet."

Meanwhile, Karura stood off to the side, watching intently. The air around her crackled faintly as lightning began to crawl along her skin. "So that's all it takes? Pour magic into my body…" Her grin widened. "Sounds easy enough."

A surge of blue lightning flared around her feet, the energy humming with power. In the next instant—CRACK!—she disappeared from her spot and reappeared right in front of Issei.

"Huh—?!"

Before he could even react, Karura threw a kick, which he barely blocked with his arms. The impact sent him skidding backward, the floor groaning under his feet.

"Karura! What the hell?!"

She laughed, her eyes bright and wild. "Don't be dramatic, husband! You said you wanted to learn faster, didn't you?!"

Issei barely had time to yell before she launched herself again, lightning sparking at her heels. He threw himself to the side, adrenaline surging—and suddenly, instinct took over. His body moved faster, lighter. His own flame-colored aura flared to life around his legs.

"Whoa…!" He gasped, dodging another strike.

Evangeline crossed her arms, watching with a small, knowing smile. "Interesting… forced adaptation. Under pressure, he adapts and learns much faster."

Raynare nodded thoughtfully. "So through battle is his trigger. How fitting for the Sekiryuutei."

"HEY, I HEARD THAT!" Issei shouted, ducking under another strike as Karura laughed gleefully.

"Good! Use it! Learn faster!" She shouted, chasing him around the dojo like a predator toying with its prey.

By the time Karura finally stopped, Issei stood panting, sweat glistening on his forehead—but his aura still burned faintly and steady.

Evangeline stepped closer, giving an approving nod. "Well done. You've all made progress tonight." Her blue eyes glimmered with pride—and mischief. "And for once, no one's exploded. I'd call that a success."

Issei collapsed onto the floor, groaning. "Define success…"

Nyaruko finally stumbled to a stop, still clutching Lala's head while the body scolded her and grabbed her head. Furina clapped dramatically. "Bravo, what a performance!"

Karura stretched, smirking as small arcs of lightning danced along her arms. "We should do this again. I like this kind of training."

"Of course you do," Issei muttered, staring at the ceiling. "I'm gonna need a bath after this."

Evangeline turned toward Raynare, who smiled faintly and bowed. "I'll have preparations made, Master Issei."

Issei groaned again but smiled weakly. "Thanks, Raynare…"

The dojo filled with laughter and chatter once more, the tension of training melting into warmth. Outside, the moonlight streamed in through the high windows, illuminating the group of misfits.

And as Issei sat there catching his breath, a quiet thought crossed his mind. 'Yeah… this is totally insane.'

—---------------------------------------
The lamps along the inner hallways burned low, their orange light spilling in soft pools across the polished stone. Issei trudged beside Raynare, one arm clutching a folded set of clean clothes, the other rubbing at his shoulder where Karura's "enthusiasm" had left a bruise. Every muscle ached. 'Evangeline's lessons always end with me nearly dying. I swear she enjoys it'. Still, he couldn't keep the corner of his mouth from curling up. Everyone had fun in the end, even him.

Raynare's footsteps made no sound. The maid uniform she wore looked impossibly pristine for someone who had just helped run a training session. She led him in silence, her posture as straight as a blade.

"This way, Master Issei," She said softly. "The castle's bath has been prepared."

Issei blinked. "You mean there's a bath here? Like… a real one?"

"You'll see soon enough."

He followed as she turned down another corridor. The walls widened into a domed hall, steam already spilling from a half-open doorway at the far end. When Raynare stopped before it, the heat rolling from inside hit him in a wave.

"This is the bathing chamber," she said, stepping aside.

Issei's eyes lit up like a kid in an arcade. "Alright! Finally, something good after all that training!" He slid the door open and froze.

The space beyond could have fit a swimming pool. The ceiling arched high above him in carved cedar beams; lanterns hung over a great pool of steaming water that shimmered in gold and silver reflections. Natural rock framed the bath, and along the edges grew small clusters of bamboo. It wasn't just a bath, it was an onsen. A proper, traditional Japanese hot spring right inside the castle.

He stepped inside, awe widening his grin. "Whoa… this place is amazing! How did—"

The soft click of the door closing behind him made him glance back.

"Eh?" he murmured. "I didn't close that—" He turned and his brain stalled completely.

Raynare was inside with him, fingers already at the buttons of her uniform. One by one they came undone, black fabric falling open to reveal smooth, pale skin and the faint glow of candlelight tracing the curve of her collarbone.

Issei's face went red enough to rival his Boosted Gear. "W-W-Wait! What are you doing?!"

Raynare didn't even blink. Her tone was calm, matter-of-fact, the same voice she used when announcing dinner. "I am joining you in the bath, Master. It is part of my duties to ensure you are properly cared for. After such intense training, you need assistance to wash and relax your muscles."

"I—I can do that myself!" Issei blurted, holding his clothes in front of him like a shield. "Really! Totally fine on my own!"

"Of course you can," she replied evenly, slipping the sleeves from her shoulders, "but as your maid, I will do it for you. That is my responsibility."

"Responsibility—?!" he squeaked. "Raynare, that's not—"

The last of her uniform fell away.

For a heartbeat, his mind went blank. Words deserted him. Her naked, slender, and graceful body, left him stunned. She looked completely unashamed as her oppai were on full display, her calm violet eyes meeting his without hesitation.

'Oh! Father in Heaven, thank you for making such a perfect pair of breasts!' Issei opened his mouth to protest again, but no sound came out. His brain had gone into total system failure.

Raynare simply tilted her head. "Master Issei?" she asked, voice low and smooth. "You're overheating. Perhaps you should sit before you faint."

"Y-Yeah," he managed weakly, his voice cracking. "Overheating… that's definitely it."

She then got closer and started taking off clothes. One by one a piece of clothing was taken off. The moment his boxers were finally gone, he was left completely naked like her. Though he might be mistaken, he felt like Raynare stared below him more than necessary and then he thought he saw her lick her lips but that might be an illusion.

It was while both were naked, that Raynare then took him to the shower area with a bar of soap and sponge already next to the shower head.

Issei then sat on the small wooden stool by the shower basin, his mind still struggling to process how quickly everything spiraled out of control. Now the hot water cascaded down his shoulders, easing the ache from Evangeline's training but doing nothing to slow his racing heart.

Raynare knelt beside him, her tone gentle yet firm as she wrung out a soaked towel. "You've trained far beyond what your body is used to, Master. It's only natural to be sore."

"Y-Yeah… guess so," He mumbled, trying not to make eye contact but then felt her Oppai pressed to his back every time she moved. The warmth of the water and the closeness of her presence left his thoughts tangled.

She worked quietly, making sure every trace of dust and sweat was gone. Her motions were measured, professional, even reverent—as if tending to him were a sacred task.

Then, unexpectedly, she spoke with a small, approving hum. "You've changed more than you realize. Your body has gotten harder and stronger. You really have been working hard."

Her words, so simple and sincere, broke through his flustered silence. The compliment wasn't teasing or seductive—it was genuine. And for the first time that night, he managed to breathe normally.

Still, another thought lingered at the edge of his mind. He hesitated before asking, his voice quiet beneath the hiss of the water. "Raynare… are you happy?"

She paused, the sponge in her hand stilled. "Happy?"

"Yeah," He said, turning slightly toward her. "Since everything happened—the brainwashing, becoming our servant, joining us. Are you… okay with this? Or are you just pretending? The girl who tried to kill us back then… is she still there somewhere?"

For a long moment, she didn't answer. The water kept running, steam rising between them. Finally, she drew in a slow breath and shook her head.

"The old me…" Her voice softened, a trace of pain hidden beneath her calm. "She was cruel. Vicious. Arrogant. I thought I was powerful, but I was just lost. I had no purpose—only pride and anger. That Raynare would have laughed at the idea of serving anyone, even someone who showed her kindness."

She dipped the cloth back into the basin and continued, quieter now. "Sometimes I wonder what she would think if she saw me now. But the truth is, this life has given me more than she ever had. I have my pure white wings back. I have a home. And…" she hesitated, looking at him with a small, earnest smile, "I have you, Master Issei."

Issei blinked, stunned. The sincerity in her tone made his chest tighten. "Raynare…"

"I know the others don't trust me," she went on. "Most of them probably never will. But I've learned something important here: if something ever happened to me, you'd care. That's more than the old me ever had."

Before he could reply, she stepped closer and wrapped her arms around him. It wasn't flirtatious—it was gentle, grateful, the kind of hug that spoke of quiet redemption. Her voice trembled slightly against his shoulder.

"Thank you… for giving me a place in your world."

For once, Issei didn't know what to say. His face burned, but his heart felt strangely light. Slowly, awkwardly, he returned the embrace. "Yeah," he said softly, "you deserve that much."

The warmth between Issei and Raynare lasted only a few heartbeats before the sound of the door sliding open shattered the quiet, revealing a naked Karura.

"Husband! I'm here to help you wash your back—and to begin the process of making babies!"

"W-WHAT?!"

The shout echoed off the stone walls just as Karura marched through the steam, towel draped over her shoulders, her usual confidence radiating like a lightning bolt about to strike. Her golden black eyes locked instantly onto the sight before her: Issei frozen mid-hug and Raynare standing close beside him, both blinking in alarm.

The air in the bathhouse suddenly felt ten degrees hotter.

Karura's expression darkened. "...Explain."

Raynare's composure didn't waver, though a tiny twitch betrayed her irritation. "Nothing improper, I assure you. I was only washing the master's back. It's my duty as his maid."

Karura crossed her arms under her breasts. "Then your duty ends here. I will handle it."

Before Issei could stop her, she was already at his side, taking the towel from Raynare's hands with the precision of a seasoned warrior. "You may rest. I'll take care of him."

Raynare's eyes narrowed. "Two hands work better than one. We can both attend to him."

"That won't be necessary," Karura said firmly, a dangerous spark in her tone.

Issei sat very still, unsure whether moving would save or doom him. 'Why does this always happen to me?'

The tension between the two women thickened until the door slammed open again.

"DARLING!"

Finally 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. Come show your support at my patreon.com/orengeflame. Also one extra chapter in patreon.

 

[Dr.Maou-Senpai]

Great chapter! I'm liking the slice of life moments and the interaction with raynare was too wholesome!

 

[Hexcalibur]

Well Issei, you wanted a harem. Now enjoy the chaos that comes with it.

 

[dxdragon]

Thanks for the chapter!
Loved seeing the growth of all the cast by accessing their magic and being able to enhance their physical abilities. It will definitely come in handy in DxD.
Also, looks like Issei is finally bonding with some of his harem. That Raynare scene was touching.
Now he just needs to refrain from summoning any more girls for a long time. It's already so many that I've long forgotten who everyone is and what they look like!