/ I see a huge palace / reaching there /
*As Acetash's consciousness lingers in the haze of recovery, a strange sensation washes over him—an unsettling mix of familiarity and disorientation. His eyes flutter open, and he begins to observe his surroundings more closely, the dim, fiery glow and twisted shadows hinting at a world far darker than he expected.*
*He whispers to himself, voice filled with confusion and suspicion:*
"Wait...this is... hell? This is different from what I've heard... How quick... Is that...a palace?"
*The structure looming before him is grand yet ominous—towering spires and intricate, burning architecture that exudes both majesty and menace, unmistakably the hallmarks of a hellish domain but with a regal, almost divine grandeur. His mind races with questions, trying to piece together whether this place is a prison, a throne room, or something else entirely—something that challenges everything he thought he knew about darkness and power.*
*Despite the chaos of the battle he just endured, a flicker of curiosity and trepidation ignites within him—this new realm, this mysterious palace, might hold secrets that could change everything. His instincts tell him that this place is not just hell, but perhaps a domain of ancient, forbidden magic or a realm where true power is forged.*
*With cautious resolve, Acetash begins to rise, eyeing the ominous surroundings, prepared to confront the unknown, feeling the weight of unanswered questions and the flickering hope that perhaps, in this darkness, lies the key to his true destiny.*
*Acetash gazes around the vast, ominous palace, marveling at the grandeur and dark beauty of the structure, silently acknowledging the incredible craftsmanship and resources required to create such a place—especially in this hellish domain. His mind briefly drifts to the possibilities and secrets it might hold before the familiar voice of Asia gently pulls him back to reality.*
Asia: (softly, concern evident in her voice) Acetash... everything is alright?
*Startled, Acetash turns to her, his expression softening as he processes her worried tone. Despite the chaos he's endured, he manages a reassuring smile, trying to hide the uncertainty lingering inside.*
Acetash: (calmly) Yeah... completely... um... I'm fine, Asia. Just... taking it all in.
*He offers her a faint nod, grateful for her concern but determined to maintain his composure. Deep down, he knows this place is more than just a palace—it's a mystery, a realm of power he's only begun to understand, and he's ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.*
Xenovia's eyes widened in awe as she took in the towering, sprawling palace, its dark spires reaching into the ominous sky, casting long shadows over the desolate landscape. She couldn't help but exclaim, "Omg, the palace is enormous!" Her voice echoed with a mixture of amazement and curiosity, clearly impressed by the grandiosity of the place. Asia, glancing at the imposing structure, looked at Rias with a gentle but inquisitive expression. "Is this the place your family lives?" she asked softly, hoping for confirmation about the origins of such a majestic yet intimidating domain. Rias hesitated for a moment, her face flickering with a mixture of pride and uncertainty, then let out a small, slightly awkward laugh, "Aha..." her response trailing off as she processed the magnitude of the palace and what it meant for her family's legacy.
*As the grand doors of the palace swing open, a deep, commanding voice echoes through the vast halls.*
Lucifuges: (bowing respectfully) Welcome back home, my lady. We have been waiting for your return. Please, follow me inside.
*He gestures gracefully, leading the group into the sprawling interior. As they walk, Acetash's eyes widen in disbelief—everywhere he looks, the palace teems with life. People move swiftly through corridors, servants tending to their duties, guards standing at attention, and courtiers whispering in hushed tones.*
Acetash: (raising an eyebrow, surprised) This place is filled with hundreds of people... I don't want to believe this palace is really that big, as I guessed...
*The once intimidating, colossal structure now feels even more overwhelming, packed with activity, revealing a hidden complexity and a bustling life that defies his initial assumptions. The sheer scale and energy of the palace make him realize that this place is not just a home but a thriving, powerful hub—perhaps the heart of something much greater than he initially thought.*
*As Asia looks around nervously, clutching her hands tightly, she whispers to Issei with a trembling voice,*
Asia: (whispering) Issei, I'm really nervous... this place is so overwhelming.
*Issei, trying to keep his composure, glances around at the bustling palace, the sheer size and activity making him feel a little out of his depth.*
Issei: (shrugging) Honestly, I wasn't expecting this to be such a big deal. I mean, yeah, it's huge, but… it's just a palace, right?
*Suddenly, a burst of excited energy interrupts the moment as a figure rushes toward them from the crowd, shouting loudly.*
???: Rias! Rias! You finally home!!!
*The figure leaps forward with exuberance, wrapping Rias in a tight, enthusiastic hug. Rias responds softly, a warm smile spreading across her face as she embraces him back.*
Rias: (smiling softly) I missed you, Milicus.
*She gently brushes her hand through his hair, a tender gesture that reveals her affection.*
Rias: (chuckling) You've gotten bigger than the last time I saw you.
*Issei, watching the scene unfold with a mixture of surprise and curiosity, turns toward Rias, clearly confused.*
Issei: (dumbfounded) Who's this? Is he... your brother?
*Rias, still holding Milicus gently, smiles softly and explains, her voice filled with warmth and a touch of pride.*
Rias: (nodding) Not exactly... Milicus was the son of my older brother, Sirzech. He's... family.
*The air thickens with emotion as the scene unfolds—an unexpected reunion that ties past and present together, revealing deeper layers of Rias's family and her world. Acetash, watching quietly, begins to understand that this palace is more than just a home; it's a nexus of relationships, alliances, and history, all woven into the fabric of this mysterious, sprawling domain.*
*Asia's eyes soften with a gentle smile as she observes Milicus, her voice filled with admiration.*
Asia: Wow... Milicus looks like a nice kid for his age. Such a calm and noble presence.
*Rias, proud and nurturing, gently guides him forward.*
Rias: Now, be good, boy, and greet our guests.
*Milicus straightens proudly, his voice clear and respectful as he introduces himself.*
Milicus: Okay! My name is Milicus Gremory. It's a pleasure to meet you.
*Asia lets out a small, delighted laugh, clearly charmed by his demeanor.*
Asia: (smiling) Mesmerizingly cute!
*Xenovia, observing with a keen eye, nods appreciatively, her expression softening into a respectful smile.*
Xenovia: Such noble acts for a young age... The boy truly understands manners and elegance. What a pleasant surprise.
*The scene radiates warmth and admiration, each character recognizing the rare maturity and grace Milicus displays, hinting at a future filled with promise and strength—an unexpected but welcome addition to this already complex and intriguing world.*
*Acetash, standing silently, whispers to himself with a hint of apprehension*
Acetash: (thinking) Oh god... what's about to happen now?
*Meanwhile, Issei, still trying to process everything, fidgets anxiously, glancing around with a confused expression.*
Issei: (muttering) Wait... if this is Sirzech's kid, so... ah… (pauses, then shrugs) Fine, I'll leave it. I forgot...
*Lucifuges, ever the gracious host, steps forward with a respectful bow.*
Lucifuges: Welcome inside, everyone. Please, come in and make yourselves comfortable.
*Milicus, excited and proud, raises his voice cheerfully.*
Milicus: My friends are finally here!
*Suddenly, a voice echoes through the hall, smooth yet filled with a hint of disdain.*
???: My, my... such poor behavior...
*The atmosphere tightens as everyone turns toward the source of the voice, their expressions shifting. Issei's eyes widen with surprise, and a mischievous glint lights up his face as he begins to dream aloud, lost in his own fantasies.*
Issei: (dreamily, muttering to himself) I want her for my harem... I want her for my harem...
*He stares longingly, fantasizing about the possibilities, completely unaware of the tension around him. The scene teeters between anticipation and chaos, hinting that the true drama is only just beginning.*
*The air thickens with tension as Rias's voice sharpens, her gaze locking onto Issei with a serious, commanding tone.*
Rias: (seriously) Issei...!!! She's my mom.
*Issei, caught off guard, blinks in surprise, trying to process her words.*
Issei: (stammering) Yes, here!! Okay... I don't... Wait?! MOM?
*The recognition hits him like a lightning bolt, and his eyes widen in shock as he finally connects the dots.*
Issei: (stunned) MOM?!
*From the side, Akeno steps forward with a graceful smile, bowing respectfully as she addresses the woman with a tone of familiarity and warmth.*
Akeno: It's a pleasure to see you again. It's been far too long, Lady Venelana.
*Everyone, including Rias, Xenovia, and the others, bows in respect, showing deference to the woman's presence.*
Venelana, smiling warmly, responds with a gentle nod.*
Venelana: Oh, it's you, Akeno... I'm delighted to meet your new friends. I am Venelana Gremory, Lady of the Gremory family.
*Xenovia steps forward politely, bowing her head.*
Xenovia: (respectfully) It's a pleasure to meet you, Lady Venelana.
*Venelana's eyes drift toward Issei as she approaches him with a calm, measured demeanor, her gaze piercing yet kind.*
Venelana: (softly) You must be Issei.
*The moment hangs in the air, charged with a mixture of surprise, curiosity, and the unspoken weight of family history. For Issei, this revelation opens a new chapter of confusion and awe—his dream-like fantasies now intertwined with the reality of his connection to the powerful Gremory family.*
*Issei, still a bit flustered, scratches the back of his head nervously.*
Issei: (awkwardly) Yes, ma'am! How do you know my name?
*Venelana chuckles softly, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and mystery.*
Venelana: (smirking) Fufufufu, I have my ways of gathering details from others... besides, that's a secret.
*Her gaze then sweeps across the team, settling on Acetash with a keen, piercing look. Her expression shifts from playful to observant.*
Venelana: (smiling warmly) Oh! I'm sure... you must be Acetash, right?
*She steps closer, her presence commanding yet gentle, studying him with an air of familiarity and respect.*
Acetash, startled by her perceptiveness, straightens slightly, a hint of surprise flickering across his face.*
Acetash: (respectfully) Lady, your sharp eyes and wit truly recognize me, as they say. Yes, I am Acetash.
*The moment deepens with the recognition of her perceptive nature, and everyone around senses that this encounter might hold significance beyond mere introductions—perhaps a key to understanding the broader web of power and secrets that surrounds them.*
*Venelana, with a teasing glint in her eyes, chuckles softly, her tone playful yet affectionate as she continues to compliment Acetash.*
Venelana: (teasing) Acetash... you look handsome too—too much for your age. I'm sure ladies are always chasing after you, finding time to be with someone like you...
*Rias, blushing fiercely, quickly interjects, her face flushing with embarrassment.*
Rias: (flustered) Mother!?! What are you talking about?!
*Acetash, caught off guard, stammers, his cheeks turning red as he tries to process her words.*
Acetash: (confused, embarrassed) Y-yeah...?
*Venelana, not missing a beat, continues her playful praise, her eyes shining with amusement.*
Venelana: (admiringly) Such beautiful red eyes, with those pointed stars—so mesmerizing. Your stylish red hair, the fit and firm muscles... It's like a walking Greek god statue. Honestly, if I weren't married, I'd consider asking you out. Fufu.
*Acetash is overwhelmed, cheeks burning, trying to hide his embarrassment while Rias, even more flustered, desperately tries to stop her.*
Rias: (pleading) Mother! Stop... please!
*The scene brims with a mixture of humor, awkwardness, and warmth, as Venelana's teasing reveals a more playful side of her, while everyone else reacts with a mix of surprise and amusement at her boldness. Despite the embarrassment, a sense of familiarity and affection weaves through the moment, hinting at the strong bonds within this family.*
*Inside, Issei's mind is swirling with envy and frustration as he watches Venelana shower Acetash with praise, her eyes lingering on him with admiration.*
Issei: (thinking bitterly) Oh, look at that... she and the whole team just staring at that newbie... and she's praising him, just him... Damn it!
*He clenches his fists, his mind racing with jealous thoughts.*
Issei: (thinking bitterly) Oh, fuck... he's massive, like a balloon. Hah! Son of a bitch... I can't believe this.
*He glances away, trying to hide the simmering envy boiling inside him, feeling a mix of admiration and annoyance at how easily Acetash seems to be drawing attention and praise. His mind drifts to his own ambitions, secretly vowing to outshine and impress everyone, including Venelana, in his own way.*
*Venelana, with a graceful smile, clasps her hands together and addresses Rias with a warm tone.*
Venelana: Rias, dear, please guide our guests to the dinner.
*Rias, slightly flustered but composed, nods in acknowledgment.*
Rias: (softly) Yes... of course.
*The team begins to follow her lead as they start walking through the grand halls, the atmosphere shifting to one of calm anticipation. The flickering lights and ornate decor create a majestic yet inviting ambiance, hinting at the feast and conversations awaiting them. Acetash, feeling a mixture of nervousness and curiosity, glances around, taking in the opulence and the subtle tension lingering beneath the elegance, wondering what surprises this evening might hold.*
*As the group begins to walk toward the dining area, Issei's eyes drifted dreamily toward the maids, his jaw slackening as he ogled the elegant, beautiful maids serving and attending around them.*
Issei: (mesmerized, whispering to himself) Oh, my fucking god... look at those beauties... look at those maids... Ahhh... I want to add them to my collection! I'm in heaven!!! This is not hell! I'd rather be in hell than heaven! Ahhh..
*Lost in his own fantasies, Issei's mind drifts further, imagining a massive harem of beautiful women at his beck and call.*
Issei: (dreaming) I could make my own super massive harem! Ahhh... hahahaha... take that, everyone! ....aghhggh!!!?
*Suddenly, Xenovia Punch him sharply across the back of his head, her tone sharp and annoyed.*
Xenovia: (firmly) You perverted jerk! Shut up for a while! We're not in your house! We're guests here! Get your perverted mind out of the clouds!
*The group continues walking, with Issei rubbing his head sheepishly, while Xenovia's glare reminds him to stay respectful, even amid the opulence and temptation around him. The scene highlights the humorous clash between Issei's lecherous tendencies and the more serious, respectful atmosphere of their visit.*
*Acetash, gazing around with genuine admiration, remarks softly,*
Acetash: This palace is truly mesmerizing. I'm really impressed.
*As he speaks, he notices the maidens nearby, their gentle smiles directed at him, their eyes filled with warmth and curiosity. He pauses for a moment, slightly confused but not overly concerned, and begins to walk forward, still smiling softly, lost in the awe of the grandeur surrounding him.*
*Unaware of the subtle glances and the admiration from those around him, Acetash's mind is captivated by the beauty and magnificence of the palace, feeling a mixture of humility and wonder in this extraordinary setting.*
*As Acetash continues to walk, his gaze briefly catches a shadow flickering behind one of the grand columns, a fleeting dark shape amidst the ornate surroundings. His eyes narrow slightly, instinctively sensing something unusual.*
Acetash: (thinking to himself) Was that just a delusion? Or did I really see something?
*Deciding to brush it off, he dismisses the shadow as a trick of the light or his imagination, focusing instead on the awe-inspiring palace around him. With a calm, composed demeanor, he continues walking, deliberately ignoring the fleeting shadow, though a faint curiosity lingers in his mind.*
*Issei, noticing Gasper's nervousness, frowns and asks with concern,*
Issei: What's wrong with you?
*Gasper, blushing deeply, stammers in embarrassment,*
Gasper: (nervously) Eating in front of all this... in such a big room... is freaking me out... I'm forgetting the taste just as I put it in my mouth!
*He glances around and notices Rias, Akeno, and Xenovia all looking at someone with surprise and admiration. His eyes follow theirs and land on Acetash, who appears happy and content, enjoying the moment.*
*Venelana, observing the scene with a pleased smile, comments with genuine admiration,*
Venelana: Wow... I didn't think that you could use a spoon and fork in such a refined way... I'm impressed.
*The scene captures a moment of admiration and curiosity, with Gasper's nervousness contrasting against Acetash's calm happiness, and Venelana's praise highlighting the unexpected skills of their guest amidst the elegant setting.*
*As Issei fixates on Acetash, a mixture of envy and admiration flickers across his face, his inner thoughts bubbling with frustration.*
Issei: Damn... he's mesmerized Rias's parents! How the fuck... how the hell is he eating like that?! I can't even manage one move without messing up. What a stylish way of eating... it's like he's from a palace or a noble's family. He eats with such grace, so luxurious... and he's almost calm about it! I didn't even dare to eat properly, afraid of humiliating myself. Fuck this guy...
*His mind races with feelings of inadequacy, secretly vowing to improve himself, even as he seethes with jealousy. The scene highlights the stark contrast between Acetash's composed elegance and Issei's fiery, competitive spirit, adding a layer of tension and unspoken rivalry.*
*As the scene unfolds, Issei notices Koneko suddenly looking embarrassed and sad, his concern flickering in his eyes.*
Issei: (thinking to himself) Koneko? What's wrong with her?
*He watches her closely as Acetash, noticing her mood, gently asks,*
Acetash: Koneko, are you feeling well?
*Koneko, with a soft, forced smile, replies quietly,*
Koneko: Yeah... I'm fine...
*Her words seem a little strained, and her eyes briefly flicker with a hint of sadness or unease, hinting at something deeper beneath her composed exterior.*
*Zeotics, with a gentle and curious tone, finally breaks the silence, addressing Issei.*
Zeotics: I've been meaning to ask you, Issei—how are your parents doing?
*Issei, caught slightly off guard, stammers nervously but responds with a sheepish smile,*
Issei: (hesitantly) Oh... uh, they're great. They said thanks for the new house... I think they're still trying to get used to the way of the new place.
*He scratches the back of his head, feeling a mix of pride and awkwardness about the situation, while Zeotics nods understandingly, acknowledging his response.*
*Zeotics, with a warm yet slightly teasing tone, comments on the grandeur of the castle.*
Zeotics: I'm happy they're enjoying it. However, the castle was much nicer...
*Issei, wide-eyed and suddenly stunned, exclaims in shock,*
Issei: Wait?! A castle?!
Acetash ( shocked , thought himself ) : this is ridiculous... Castle for that guy ? He cannot even dream to have normal villa in his own wildest dreams... a castle...sight ...god I cannot even think how stupid is...
*Rias, equally shocked and flustered, quickly interjects, trying to diffuse the situation,*
Rias: (nervously) Father, I... I'll explain this. You can't force our culture on others.
*Zeotics, smiling politely but with a twinkle of mischief, responds,*
Zeotics: And I respect that... but honestly, they could really use those 50 maids.
Acetash ( thought to himself): I'm sure it's kind of teasing they want to irritating Rias for reason... Ya family jokes as always..
*As Zeotics mentions the maids, Issei's eyes glaze over as he begins to daydream about the idea, fantasizing about being surrounded by fifty beautiful maids, a grin spreading across his face.*
Issei: (dreamily) Fifty maids... wow... I'd be in heaven...
*Rias, with a knowing smile, comments thoughtfully,*
Rias: Having that many young women around would undoubtedly distract Issei from his true priorities.
*Zeotics chuckles softly, teasingly addressing his daughter,*
Zeotics: So, my daughter, you've put your foot down yet again, huh huh... again, my child.
*Issei, hearing this, sighs with a hint of disappointment, his shoulders slumping as he abandons his fantasy,*
Issei: Well, I guess I can forget that dream on my hope list...
*Zeotics, turning to him with a slightly serious tone, asks,*
Zeotics: Another thing, Issei?
*Eager to hear what's next, Issei responds with a bright, curious expression,*
Issei: Yes?
*Zeotics, with a warm yet commanding tone, looks at Issei and declares,*
Zeotics: You are now part of this family... from now on, I want you to see me as your father.
*Venelana, smiling softly and approvingly, adds with a gentle nod,*
Venelana: Darling, your actions are quite mature... but there are still order and things that must be followed.
*Rias, blushing furiously and overwhelmed by the situation, groans in embarrassment,*
Rias: Honestly, you two... you're killing me!!...
*She quickly turns and walks away, her face flushed, trying to escape the awkwardness of the moment as the scene ends with a mix of humor, affection, and familial warmth.*
*Lucifuges, observing the scene with a calm but analytical gaze, mutters softly,*
Lucifuges: Sight...
*Acetash, visibly shocked and conflicted, questions himself with a mix of disbelief and skepticism,*
Acetash: Wait... does he mean... new house? And why? What did he do to deserve such a gift? No offense, but this is ridiculous. Fifty maids have their own needs, and a castle? For such a lowly person all of a sudden? Do they even consider the costs? And I'm sure he doesn't even know how to handle noble manners. What kind of ability does he have that makes him so important? Something's wrong... sight...
*Later, sitting on the bed, Acetash reflects with a troubled expression,*
Acetash: I didn't know he got the new house from the Gremory family... How influential must he be? That idiot... sight... Leave it, Acetash... it just makes me more frightened.
*Akeno approaches softly, her voice gentle but direct,*
Akeno: Am I bothering you?
*Acetash, startled, quickly regains his composure,*
Acetash: Huh? No, of course not... Why did you come here?
*Akeno responds calmly, with a hint of friendliness,*
Akeno: Just to tell you, tomorrow we'll have a tough training session. Be ready.
*Acetash nods, smiling faintly, trying to hide his unease,*
Acetash: Aha... okay... thanks for the information.
*Akeno offers a small smile as she departs,*
Akeno: You're welcome, Acetash... Good night.
*He watches her leave, a mixture of admiration and concern lingering in his expression as he softly replies,*
Acetash: Good night.