White apron frills were first stained with red.
Then soaked through, the patterns growing more vivid.
Pulled taut, they showcased their full potential.
Yet, against overwhelming brute force, they fulfilled their final duty.
Tearing into fluttering petals, scattering across the floor.
"So… that's how it is?"
Leone, who'd snuck in quietly, stared wide-eyed.
She'd gained a new understanding of "getting stronger."
She tried to slip away, but a flash of light brought that handsome face inches from hers.
Leone wore purple sleepwear, faintly revealing matching purple undergarments, her voluptuous figure impossible to fully conceal.
"Since you're here, let me see your Teigu again."
Kaiser's tone left no room for argument. "Both Kurome and Akame have improved. You're falling behind."
Feeling his dominance, Leone nearly teared up.
She'd only come to watch the fun.
Who knew she'd end up on the receiving end?
But deep down, a desire to grow stronger stirred.
"Fine."
Leone nodded, fluffy ears and tail emerging.
[Lionel: Beast King Transformation] activated fully, radiating astonishing power.
"Good. Let's begin."
…
The next day, Najenda yawned her way to the dining hall.
Too much intensity.
Her room was closest to Kaiser's.
She'd thought midnight would bring peace.
Then Leone joined the fray.
Now, closing her eyes brought back their voices.
Most frustratingly…
She'd started imagining things…
"Damn it, what am I thinking?"
She shook her head fiercely, banishing the thoughts.
"Yo, you're here."
Esdeath greeted her, munching on pastries.
"Sleep well last night?"
"Heh… hehe." Najenda, dark circles under her eyes, forced a smile.
You know exactly how well.
"Actually, you should step up," Esdeath said casually.
"You know your strength is the lowest among us now."
"Akame and Leone are pushing to improve. Keep slacking, and you won't even see their backs."
Najenda: "???"
She stared blankly.
That was training to get stronger?
Ridiculous.
"Well, you just joined, so it's normal not to know," Esdeath sighed, explaining.
"…"
Najenda's eyes widened.
Yesterday was already fantastical.
This secret shattered her worldview.
Even for devils…
Wasn't this a bit too…
But thinking of growth, her gaze shifted subtly.
…
That noon, Kaiser gathered his peerage for a meeting.
In the conference room, Najenda eyed the unsteady trio, her expression odd.
Sensing her stare, Leone and Akame blushed, avoiding eye contact.
"Alright, serious matters now."
Kaiser clapped, drawing attention.
"You're all curious about my origins. I'm leaving soon, so I'll explain."
"Actually…"
After hearing it, Esdeath gasped. "No wonder this world has no tales of devils."
"You're from another world, Master."
Her gaze turned even more adoring.
As expected of Master—crossing worlds.
"Master, can we visit your world?" Leone asked eagerly.
Devils' world—how fascinating.
"In time. Be patient."
Kaiser replied, then continued, "Before I go, some instructions."
"Mm-hmm."
Everyone listened attentively.
"First, Night Raid."
"No need to disband. Najenda, keep recruiting."
Najenda grew serious, nodding. "Those wanting to join share our ideals—completely trustworthy."
"But stricter standards."
"Master, please."
"Women only. Beautiful ones."
Leone weakly said, "Master, you're turning Night Raid into a harem."
"Exactly right."
"…" N.
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