In the Occult Research Club
Everyone was sitting, anxiously waiting. Rias had summoned them urgently, but several minutes had passed, and she still hadn't shown up. The atmosphere in the room was filled with uncertainty as they wondered why she had called them so suddenly.
Issei broke the silence:—What do you think Rias called us for?
Kiba, speaking thoughtfully, replied:—She asked us to come right after class, so it must be something important.
Xenovia added, a hint of concern in her voice:—Then why hasn't she arrived yet?
The same doubt began to echo in everyone's minds when suddenly, Rias appeared, stepping out of the bathroom. Her downcast expression and sad demeanor shattered any expectations they might have had.
Issei, his voice full of concern, rushed to ask:—Rias, what happened?
Issei looked at her with clear worry in his eyes, reflecting the discomfort and sadness that everyone felt. Rias stopped in front of them, her arms crossed over her chest, and her somber expression spoke volumes more than words could.
With a broken voice, Rias finally spoke:—My brother and his family were attacked… while they were in the Gremory territory.
Xenovia could barely contain her shock:—What?
Kiba, incredulous, tried to make sense of it:—But how…?
Rias attempted to answer, but her voice trembled:—I don't know how… but they did it…
The effort it took to share the news seemed to tear her apart from the inside. Unable to bear it any longer, Rias collapsed to the floor, allowing tears to flow freely down her cheeks.
With her voice even more fragile, Rias continued:—They found my brother severely injured… Grayfia's burned body was beside him, and… they still haven't found Millicas.
Each word seemed like a painful effort, and the fact that her sentences remained unfinished only highlighted the profound impact the news had on her. Everyone immediately understood the depth of her suffering.
Akeno gently approached, trying to console her:—Rias, don't cry. We're here to support you, no matter what.
Kiba nodded determinedly:—Yes, President. You're not alone.
Xenovia, though affected, tried to keep her composure:—…Count on us.
Issei, with a firm resolution in his voice, took a step closer:—This won't go unpunished. We'll make sure those responsible pay for what they've done… I promise you!
Rias looked up, and upon seeing the determination in Issei's eyes, she gave him a warm smile before throwing herself into his arms. In that moment, Issei felt the soft contact of Rias's chest against him, which caused a satisfied and lustful smile to form on his face as he held her.
After a few seconds, Rias pulled away from Issei, slowly wiping away her tears before standing up with him and the others.
With a voice filled with gratitude but still trembling, Rias said:—Thank you all so much. I don't know what I'd do without friends like you, but… there's more news I need to share.
As she spoke, she walked slowly toward her desk and sat down with a serious expression. Everyone watched her in confusion, giving her their full attention.
Rias continued, in a somber tone:—Because of what happened to my brother, a wave of fear and insecurity has spread throughout the Underworld.
Akeno, perplexed, couldn't help but ask:—I don't understand. What's all this about, Rias?
With a sigh, Rias revealed the truth, clearly displeased:—My parents have decided to go ahead with arranging my engagement to the Phoenix House, for my safety.
Issei, surprised, exclaimed:—What!?
Rias nodded, her voice tinged with sadness:—And of course… they accepted.
Issei, with fury in his voice, shouted:—How could they do that!?
Filled with anger, he slammed one of the walls in the room, creating a small tremor that echoed throughout the space.
Rias, also angry, tried to calm him down:—I'm angry too about the decision they made, but I'm not marrying Raiser.
Akeno, curious, asked:—What's your plan, then?
With renewed determination, Rias answered:—Just like last time, I'll challenge him to a Rating Game.
Rias's resolute tone infused everyone with new confidence, giving them the reassurance that they had a way to avoid the engagement.
Rias continued, looking especially at Issei:—For that, I need to know if I can count on all of you, especially you.
Issei responded with a confident smile, causing Rias to smile back before leaning in and giving him a soft kiss.
However, this action stirred the other members of Issei's harem, who had been waiting for the right moment to fight for the chance to be the next to kiss him.
Kiba and Gasper, watching the scene, couldn't help but sweat-drop in classic anime fashion.
Meanwhile, at the Phoenix Clan Palace
All the members of the Phoenix family were heading toward the main courtyard when a young woman with hair matching the rest of the family quickly overtook them, rushing down the stairs.
Lady Phoenix, concerned, called to her daughter:—Be careful, Ravel!
The woman watched as her daughter hurried ahead, while another young man with similar hair joined them.
Raiser Phoenix, with a calm smile, responded to his mother:—Don't worry, mother. After all, Ravel is a woman now; she can take care of herself.
His words elicited a sigh from his mother and light laughter from his father.
Lord Phoenix, maintaining an air of authority, urged them:—Let's hurry, your brother will be here soon. He's almost here…
While she spoke, they pointed in the distance, where a magic circle began to materialize on the ground. From it emerged a luxurious car, which rolled toward the clearing where the Phoenix family was gathered. The car arrived before they did, and as it approached, Ravel displayed evident anxiety, while Raiser shared her excitement. The parents, however, appeared more relaxed, calmly observing the scene.
After a few seconds, the door of the luxurious car slowly opened. A man, older than Raiser, stepped out with calm composure. He was tall, blonde, with fair skin and facial features that gave him a distinctly German appearance. He was dressed in an elegant suit and wearing sunglasses.
His face, initially expressionless, softened into a smile as he lowered his head and saw Ravel waiting for him.
??: "So, how's it going?"
With a slightly friendlier tone, he directed the question to Ravel, who immediately rushed to embrace him in a tight hug. He returned the affection warmly before pulling away to face his brother.
Raiser, with a delighted expression, greeted him:
—"It's been so long, brother!"
??: "I could say the same. I'm sure plenty of girls have been after you."
Raiser chuckled, pleased:
—"Ha, ha, ha."
The two brothers shared a brief laugh, until their father approached them. Immediately, both the newcomer and Raiser straightened up, adopting a more formal posture as they directed respectful gazes toward their father.
Lord Phoenix: —"It's not long until dinner. Let's head inside and talk more calmly, son."
He said, taking his wife by the waist as they started walking back toward the mansion.
Without wasting time, the children regrouped to follow them. Once in the dining room, they sat down at the table and enjoyed their meal while chatting animatedly. After a while, they all made their way to a spacious room to continue the discussion that had brought them together.
Lord Phoenix: —"Tell me, have you heard what happened in the Underworld?"
He asked seriously, his eyes reflecting an underlying concern.
??: —"Yes…"
The newcomer replied, slightly bowing his head as his expression grew darker.
—"I heard about what happened with Lucifer. But tell me, why did you call me here so suddenly?"
He couldn't finish his sentence when a magic circle formed on a free space in the room, radiating a deep crimson that immediately caught everyone's attention. From it, Venelana Gremory and her husband, Zeoticus Gremory, emerged. The couple, with their characteristic elegance, approached the Phoenix family to greet them, especially the newcomer, who maintained an impassive stance, though he slightly inclined his head as a sign of respect.
Lord Phoenix: —"They'll explain it to you better."
Lord Phoenix replied, his tone reflecting both confidence and a hint of concern. He then watched as the couple took seats beside them, their imposing presence filling the room.
Zeoticus: —"I see you're already aware of what happened, right?"
Zeoticus said, his narrowed eyes betraying a mix of sadness and determination.
??: —"Yes…"
The newcomer replied, lowering his gaze slightly.
—"I'm sorry for what happened. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."
He added, his voice laced with genuine concern as his hands briefly clenched into fists before relaxing.
Venelana: —"That's exactly why we're here…"
Venelana said, her voice soft but firm as she crossed her hands in her lap, exuding a serenity that contrasted with the gravity of the situation.
Zeoticus: —"We want you to take our son's place."
Zeoticus added, his tone exceedingly serious, his eyes fixed on the newcomer. Upon hearing the request, the newcomer shifted his gaze to the side, lost in thought.
The man pondered the request in silence for a few seconds, his expression showing a mixture of surprise and contemplation.
??: —"I've spent a long time away from the Underworld…"
He finally said, his tone cautious as his fingers drummed on the armrest of his chair.
—"But I suppose the politics here aren't flexible enough to simply return and say I'm in charge."
Zeoticus: —"We know that perfectly well, but we have a plan."
Zeoticus responded, leaning slightly forward, his gaze filled with determination.
??: —"And what's the plan?"
The newcomer asked, now looking at Zeoticus with renewed interest, his posture more attentive.
Zeoticus: —"You'll marry our daughter, and with that union, you'll have the perfect excuse."
Zeoticus declared, his voice firm as he observed the newcomer with expectation.
Upon hearing the plan, the man leaned forward, resting his chin in his right hand as he stared at the floor, clearly not entirely convinced. His furrowed brow showed that he was considering the implications of the proposal.
Venelana: —Her name is Rías, she's a good girl... and very beautiful, too.
Venelana added, her tone softer and more persuasive, trying to convince him. Her eyes reflected a mix of hope and concern.
??: —Trust me, I know her well enough…
He responded, lifting his gaze to meet Venelana's eyes.
—And from what I know, she has a boyfriend.
Zeoticus: —Y-yes, but she'll understand…
Zeoticus said, hesitating slightly but trying to sound convincing.
??: —Does she at least know…?
He asked, his tone firmer as he straightened up, showing more direct interest.
Venelana: —We informed her not long ago…
Venelana admitted, lowering her voice a bit, her expression showing slight discomfort as she avoided eye contact for a moment.
??: —Fine… I'll marry her.
He said finally, his voice firm as he held his ground, staring at the Gremory family with unwavering determination.
—But I'll only do it to ensure the well-being of the Underworld. Once your son recovers, we'll part ways.
Zeoticus: —That sounds perfect!
Zeoticus exclaimed with enthusiasm, almost relieved that the plan was moving forward.
??: —But don't tell her this last part. I want it to be as convincing as possible, even if it means she ends up hating me.
The newcomer added, his tone neutral yet firm, reflecting both his sense of duty and the cold resolve with which he was willing to fulfill it.
The Gremory family exchanged a glance, admiring the professionalism and sacrifice with which he was handling the matter.
Venelana: —Thank you so much, son…
Venelana said, her voice reflecting a mix of relief and gratitude, as she slightly bowed her head in respect.
The deep relief was palpable in the air as the Gremory family stood up to leave, satisfied that their plan was in good hands. As they exited the room, the Phoenix brothers gathered together, moving closer to speak privately.
Raiser: —Who would've thought you'd be the first to get married! Hahaha.
Raiser joked, crossing his arms and throwing a mocking glance at his brother.
??: —Don't forget, I'll be marrying your ex-fiancée…
His brother replied with a half-smile.
—Who, by the way, you lost.
Raiser: —It wasn't my fault! Her brother was the one who accepted the challenge, and he ended up cheating by using holy water.
Raiser said indignantly, trying to justify his failure while his brow furrowed slightly. However, both brothers ended up laughing at the situation, though their laughter was interrupted by the concern on Ravel's face.
Ravel: —But I doubt Issei will be happy about this…
Ravel commented, her voice soft but filled with unease as she looked at her brothers.
Raicer: —But this time, her brother isn't here to change the plans, plus they're offering him the position of Maou.
Raicer responded, his confidence attempting to mask any doubt he might have had.
??: —It's not as appealing as you think, brother.
He replied seriously, his gaze focused on the floor as he pondered the true implications of the position they were offering him.
Raicer: —What matters is that you'll have the power to give orders to anyone you want.
Raicer said enthusiastically, brushing aside the gravity of his brother's words as he smiled confidently.
??: —Now I see why they came to me instead of someone else…
He commented, his voice tinged with resignation, raising his head to meet Raicer's gaze with a mixture of understanding and acceptance, now fully aware of the responsibility they were imposing on him.
At the Hioudou residence
In a room, a large bed dominated the space. On it, all the girls, except Akeno, were completely naked, resting on an exhausted Issei. Sweat soaked their bodies, and the air was thick with the lingering tension of recent events. Satisfied smiles adorned most of their faces, except for Rías, who seemed distant.
Rías slowly rose, moving somewhat awkwardly until she reached the window. She stared outside with an expression of discomfort and curiosity, hugging herself as if seeking comfort from the cold glass.
Issei: —Rías? What's wrong?
Issei asked, his voice full of concern as he approached her and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
Rías: —N-nothing, just…
Rías responded, not turning to look at him, her hesitant tone betraying an inner worry.
Issei: —Don't worry, just tell me what's going on.
He encouraged her gently, his eyes filled with genuine interest as he tried to make her feel safe.
Rías continued to look outside, her face still marked with curiosity and a shadow of doubt, resisting the urge to express her discomfort.
Rías: —It's just… everything was so different from what I expected for my first time.
Rías said, her voice trembling slightly as she turned to look at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of vulnerability and confusion.
Issei: —You mean that...
Issei began to ask, his expression a mix of surprise and concern as he processed her words.
Rías: —What I mean is, I didn't expect this kind of feeling, but I still love you, and I hope we can make it just the two of us.
Rías expressed, her eyes briefly glancing at the girls still asleep on him. She sat on the bed, her posture a mix of determination and a desire for honesty.
Issei: —I'm sorry, Rías.
Issei said, his tone full of regret as he settled beside her on the bed.
Rías: —Don't worry, you know? When we win, I promise I'll be completely yours.
Rías reassured him, her voice soft and full of promise as she turned to face him with a hopeful smile.
Issei: —I don't just want that!
Issei responded firmly, taking Rías by the shoulders, his eyes reflecting intense determination. The noise from their conversation stirred the other girls, who began to open their eyes and observe the declaration with surprise and curiosity.
Rías: —How?
Rías asked, her expression changing to one of awe and anticipation as she waited for Issei's response.
Issei: —I want you to be my wife, Rías!
Issei exclaimed with clear decision, the spark in his eyes showing his fervor and commitment.
Rías: —Issei, are you serious?
Rías asked, a mix of disbelief and hope in her voice, her eyes filled with tears of happiness.
Issei: —I've never been. I promise that when I defeat Raicer, I'll ask your parents for your hand, and I won't rest until I have it.
Issei assured with firmness, his intense gaze reflecting an unwavering determination. The promise was filled with sincere commitment.
Rías: —Issei, my love, I love you!
Rías exclaimed, embracing him emotionally. Her voice trembled with happiness as she nestled beside him, both settling down to sleep, wrapped in an atmosphere of intimacy and tenderness. The other girls, witnessing the scene, began to pile onto Issei, demanding that he ask for each of their hands as well.
The next day
All the guys were gathered in the club, waiting with a mix of anticipation and curiosity. Issei was particularly impatient, his expression revealing both nervousness and excitement. Rías was by his side, holding his hand affectionately, which caused some discomfort among the other girls in the club. The tension in the air sparked laughter from the other club members, who watched the dynamic with interest and amusement.
The atmosphere in the club was unusually calm, until suddenly, a magical circle enveloped in flames appeared in the room. Everyone stood up, watching intently as three figures emerged from the circle. Two of them were familiar, while the third, an unknown figure, didn't attract much attention and was assumed to be just an escort.
Ravel: —Hello, Issei!
Ravel greeted enthusiastically, her voice full of warmth as she addressed Issei.
Issei: —Hello!
Issei responded with a smile, matching Ravel's upbeat mood.
Raicer: —Hello, Rías.
Raicer said in a cheerful tone, without any ill intentions, but Rías shot him a deadly glare, completely ignoring his greeting. Her face clearly showed her disdain.
Raicer: —Well, allow me to…
Raicer began, but was quickly interrupted by Asia, who took a few steps forward with a furrowed brow and a determined look.
Asia: —We won't let you marry Rías!
Asia exclaimed, visibly upset, stepping closer to stand in front of Issei, who looked at her with seriousness and resolve.
Issei: —Whatever it takes, I'll give everything for Rías.
Issei assured with a firm voice, his gaze fixed on Raicer, reflecting his resolution.
Raicer: —Wait, I didn't…
Raicer tried to reply, clearly taken aback by the intensity of Asia's and Issei's words, raising his hand in a peacekeeping gesture.
Rías: —Raicer, just because my parents have once again arranged my marriage, doesn't mean I've accepted it. And I assure you, if you're looking for a fight, you'll get one…
Her tone was challenging, her gaze fixed on Raicer, full of determination and anger.
??: —Calm down a bit, he's just greeting you…
The unknown man intervened, his voice calm but firm, which surprised Rías and the other club members.
Rías: —And who are you to speak to me like that?
Rías asked, clearly annoyed, while her clubmates shared her indignation, all ready to defend her.
Raicer: —That's the thing… he's your new fiancé.
Raicer said cheerfully, as if not fully grasping the gravity of the situation. The news hit the club like a bucket of cold water, especially Rías, who frowned in disbelief, not remembering hearing about this man before.
Eren: —It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person… I'm the eldest son of the Phoenix clan, Eren Phoenix.
The unknown man said, slightly bowing his head in respect. His tone was cordial, but his imposing presence made it clear he was not someone to be easily ignored. Rías looked at him with a mix of surprise and distrust, while the other club members processed the revelation.
End of Chapter 1
Translator's Note: The MC's appearance is similar to or the same as Kento Nanami from the anime Jujutsu Kaisen. I'm not including an image because it's too much effort.