Fireworks exploded overhead in radiant bursts of blue, red, and gold, crackling through the sky like celebratory thunder. Soldiers lined the platform in perfect formation, rifles angled upward as they fired volley after volley in synchronization with the fireworks. A brass band began to play a triumphant melody, their tempo matching the heart-pounding rhythm of the spectacle.
Above us, a soldier mounted on some strange flying creature soared through the air, waving a flag emblazoned with the Gremory crest. The crowd roared in approval.
And me?
I felt like a completely clueless tourist who'd accidentally wandered into a royal ceremony.
Kiba, Akeno, and Rias looked perfectly at ease, as if this level of grand welcome was normal here. Xenovia, on the other hand, blinked rapidly like her brain was buffering reality.
"H-Hiiiiii… S-So many people…"
Gasper whimpered as he buried himself behind my back, clutching my shirt like the world was ending. His trembling practically vibrated through me.
As the orchestra's tune reached a sweeping crescendo, the sea of butlers and maids parted in perfect symmetry. Their attire—crisp black uniforms, polished silver accessories, and immaculate white gloves—gave off the air of an elite order sworn to absolute discipline. When Rias stepped forward, they bowed deeply as one.
"Welcome back, Rias-ojou-sama."
Their unified greeting reverberated across the courtyard like a practiced chant.
"Thank you, everyone. I'm home. I've returned."
Rias's smile was radiant—soft, affectionate, and nostalgic. At her expression, the maids and butlers exchanged gentle smiles of their own, relieved to see her again.
Then a familiar presence stepped forward from the front line.
Silver hair. Immaculate uniform. Piercing yet gentle eyes.
Grayfia Lucifuge.
Even among devils, her beauty and presence were legendary. She bowed slightly.
"Welcome back, ojou-sama. You arrived earlier than expected. I am relieved to see that your journey was safe. Now then, all members of your group—please board the carriage. We shall depart for the main residence."
Her voice was calm yet authoritative, as if she were the conductor of this entire grand event.
Nearby, several enormous carriages awaited us—magnificent structures of dark wood and gilded metal, each pulled by Underworld steeds whose crimson eyes gleamed with near-intelligent sharpness. These weren't normal horses; these were creatures bred to serve noble devils.
Before I could even question what we were supposed to do with our luggage, I turned toward the train—only to see a swarm of maids efficiently unloading every bag with supernatural coordination.
And here I was, ready to carry them myself…
"I will go with the servants," Rias said. "Since Asia and Xenovia seem nervous, this might ease them."
"Understood," Grayfia replied. "Several vehicles have been prepared. Please choose whichever suits you."
And so, the first carriage became ours: me, Rias, Asia, Akeno, Xenovia—and Grayfia herself.
The interior was luxurious beyond anything I had imagined. Velvet seats, carved wooden frames, delicate lighting crystals embedded in the ceiling… The moment the carriage began moving, the rhythmic "pakarapakara" of the Underworld horses filled the air.
Outside the window, the path stretched like something out of a fantasy painting—smoothly paved roads, immaculately pruned trees, glowing lanterns, and flowers in colors I couldn't even name. Underworld birds—with feathers in blues, purples, and silver—flew in intricate patterns overhead.
We passed through archways, fountains, and courtyards until—
I involuntarily leaned forward.
A massive castle emerged into view.
"That's… huge," I breathed out.
Rias giggled softly. "That's one of my homes."
One.
Of.
Her.
Homes.
Yeah, okay. My entire house could fit inside ONE of this place's bathrooms.
As the carriage entered the front garden—filled with flowerbeds glowing faintly under enchantments—we finally rolled to a stop. A butler opened the door with a bow so elegant it felt like a performance.
Rias stepped out first, and the rest of us followed. The second carriage arrived seconds later, unloading Kiba, Koneko, Gasper, and the others.
The maids and butlers stood in two lines again, forming a regal walkway. A red carpet, embroidered with the Gremory symbol, led straight to the towering castle gates. The gates groaned open, echoing through the grounds.
Grayfia bowed lightly. "Ojou-sama, members of the group—please proceed."
"Come on," Rias said, taking the first step.
But just as we moved, something small darted from the maid line.
"Rias-nee-sama! Welcome back!"
A tiny blur of red hair launched itself into Rias's arms. A young boy—cute, bright-eyed, and unmistakably Gremory—hugged her tightly.
"Millicas! I'm back." Rias lifted him slightly. "You're getting bigger every time I see you."
Asia blinked in confusion. "U-Um… Buchou, who is this child?"
Rias replied warmly. "This is Millicas Gremory. My nephew. The son of my brother—Sirzechs Lucifer."
My brain froze.
Sirzechs's son?!
And then the nightmare thought hit me.
WAIT—WHO DID HE MARRY?!
For a terrifying half-second, every cell in my body screamed:
"PLEASE NOT GRAYFIA, PLEASE NOT GRAYFIA, PLEASE NOT GRAYFIA— HE TOLD ME HE DIDN'T MARRY GRAYFIA."
I forced my voice steady. "Rias… who is his mother?"
Rias gave me an amused look, cheeks dimpling. "Melinda. Why do you ask?"
"…No reason."
Thank every deity in existence.
Grayfia raised her hand. Instantly, several maids lined up behind her.
"Ojou-sama, shall I show everyone to their rooms?"
"You're right." Rias nodded. "I still need to greet Mother and Father."
"The master is currently out but will return by evening," Grayfia explained. "He wishes to meet all of you during supper."
Relief washed through the group—finally, time to rest.
But before we could move, a graceful voice resonated from above.
"Ara, Rias. So you've finally returned."
We looked up.
Descending the staircase was a woman so breathtakingly beautiful I momentarily forgot how to breathe. Her silky flaxen hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her refined dress emphasized her elegance. She looked young—far too young to be a "mother"—yet carried herself with noble maturity.
And she looked almost exactly like Rias.
But with even bigger assets.
Rias brightened instantly. "Mother. I've returned."
It's not fair. Rias's mother looks younger than half the school.
What kind of genetics is this family running on?!
~~~
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