Opg
# One Punch, Five Goddesses
## Chapter 1: The Accidental Summoning
Saitama stared blankly at the strange markings beneath his apartment mailbox, bottle of cleaning solution in one hand and a rag in the other. The day had started normally enough—a sale on daikon radishes at the supermarket, followed by a brief encounter with a self-proclaimed "Toxic Sludge Emperor" that had ended, predictably, with a single punch. Now, as evening settled over Z-City, all he wanted was to remove the bizarre graffiti that had appeared overnight on his building's exterior wall.
"Who even does this kind of thing?" he muttered to himself, crouching down to examine the strange pattern.
It wasn't typical graffiti. Instead of spray paint or marker, the design appeared to be drawn in a luminescent substance that shifted colors subtly as he observed it—from deep azure to violet to a burnished gold. The pattern formed an intricate circle with incomprehensible symbols arranged around its circumference, reminding Saitama vaguely of the strange sigils that sometimes accompanied particularly unusual monsters.
Most oddly, the circle seemed incomplete. One section remained unfinished, the glowing lines trailing off as if the artist had been interrupted mid-creation.
"Weird," Saitama sighed, reaching out with his rag. "Better clean it before the landlord complains."
As the toe of his yellow house slipper nudged the edge of the circle, the strange markings flared with sudden, blinding intensity. The ground trembled beneath him, and the air grew heavy with an otherworldly pressure. Saitama, whose response to most supernatural phenomena was a dispassionate stare, merely raised an eyebrow as the glowing circle expanded rapidly, spreading out from beneath the mailbox to encompass a space nearly three meters in diameter.
"Great," he deadpanned. "More weird monster stuff."
The circle pulsed once, twice, then tore open with a sound like reality itself being ripped apart. Through this tear came a surge of multicolored light—crimson, silver, gold, azure, and violet—each beam distinct and somehow alive with purpose. The lights swirled upward like luminous serpents, intertwining briefly before separating into five distinct columns that slowly coalesced into humanoid silhouettes.
When the light finally faded, five women stood before Saitama, each radiating a presence so otherworldly and magnificent that the very air around them seemed to bow in deference.
"The summoning is complete," announced the first figure, her voice like the soft whisper of an arrow flying through night air.
This was Artemis—unmistakably divine despite her unexpectedly bookish appearance. Her long silver-blue hair flowed around her like moonlit water, framing a face of perfect serenity. Bright sky-blue eyes regarded Saitama through round glasses that somehow enhanced rather than diminished her ethereal beauty. Her white and red goddess gown exposed her shoulders and flowed around her form like living water. In her hand, she held a massive, ornate bow that pulsed with cosmic energy, and around her neck gleamed a golden crescent-moon necklace. Her entire being radiated a soft blue glow, reminiscent of starlight filtering through leaves.
"I am Artemis," she stated, her voice carrying the stillness of a forest at midnight. "Goddess of the Hunt, the Moon, and the Wild. Who has called me forth from my divine realm?"
Before Saitama could respond, the second figure stepped forward with a movement so graceful it seemed more like flowing than walking. This was Aphrodite, her presence hitting Saitama's senses like a physical force—beauty made manifest to an almost painful degree.
Her orange-red hair cascaded down her back in waves that caught the light like liquid fire, golden highlights dancing as she moved. Sharp, knowing golden eyes regarded Saitama with a sultry confidence that suggested she found him amusing. She wore a short, ethereal white dress with flowing sleeves that exposed her perfectly formed legs and shoulders, adorned with gold accents and subtle heart motifs. Most striking of all were the large, majestic red-orange wings that extended from her back, their tips darkening to a deep blue that seemed to absorb rather than reflect light. Above her head floated a glowing heart-shaped laurel crown, radiating divine light, while two stylized red skull-birds hovered behind her, their presence adding an unsettling counterpoint to her overwhelming beauty.
"Aphrodite," she purred, her voice like honey poured over velvet. "Goddess of Beauty, Love, and Desire. What mortal has the audacity to summon me?" Her eyes narrowed as she studied Saitama, a smile playing at the corners of her perfect lips. "And such an... interesting mortal at that."
The third figure moved forward with measured grace, her bearing unmistakably regal. Europa's golden-blonde hair flowed to her thighs in soft waves, adorned with intricate gold accessories and topped with a large, ornate crown encrusted with red jewels. Her gentle lavender eyes regarded Saitama with a mixture of curiosity and benevolence. She wore a lavish white-and-rose dress with red and gold detailing, and heart motifs accentuated her queenly status while maintaining an air of maternal softness. Unlike the others, her presence was less overwhelming—more human, yet still touched by divinity.
"I am Europa," she introduced herself, her voice musical and warm. "Queen of Crete, beloved of Zeus, elevated to the stars. I greet you, summoner, though I confess this calling was unexpected."
The fourth figure seemed to bring warmth to the night air around them. Amaterasu stood with imperial dignity, her rose-gold hair flowing past her shoulders in loose waves, adorned with golden ornaments and a radiant sun-like diadem. Her sharp amber-gold eyes held a playful confidence—the gaze of one accustomed to worship. She wore lavish, golden-embroidered white and red robes styled after ancient Japanese imperial attire, her top revealing a generous portion of her chest, with gold-accented bindings and sun motifs emphasizing her divine status. A sun-shaped brooch gleamed across her chest, and elaborate earrings and golden hairpieces completed her ensemble.
"Amaterasu," she announced, her voice warm yet commanding. "Goddess of the Sun, the Sacred Mirror, and the Imperial Line of Yamato. For what purpose have you torn me from my celestial court, mortal?"
The final figure seemed different from the others—younger in appearance yet somehow ageless in presence. Proto Merlin's silver-white hair cascaded in soft curls around her, shimmering with an inner light. Her vivid pinkish-purple eyes held both ancient wisdom and childlike curiosity. She wore a striking white and lavender ensemble that combined elements of a fae sorceress and celestial priestess, with layered ruffles and a sheer white skirt that flowed into translucent wing-like extensions lined with gold. In her hand, she held a mystical staff topped with a spiraling, crystalline blue bloom that radiated magical energy. Soft floating petals and glowing light surrounded her, creating the impression that she existed partially within a dream realm.
"I am Proto Merlin," she said, her voice gentle yet resonant with hidden power. "Dreamweaver of the White Garden, Mage of Flowers and Distant Avalon." Her eyes narrowed as she examined the glowing remnants of the summoning circle. "But this binding... it's incomplete. The circle was not properly finished."
All five divine beings turned their attention fully to Saitama, who stood before them in his plain yellow house slippers, shorts, and a t-shirt that read "OPPAI" across the chest, holding a bottle of cleaning solution in one hand and a rag in the other.
There was a long, expectant silence.
"Uh, hi," Saitama finally said, raising a hand in casual greeting. "I'm Saitama. Did I accidentally summon you guys or something? I was just trying to clean this weird graffiti."
The goddesses exchanged glances of varying degrees of shock, confusion, and disbelief.
"You... accidentally summoned five divine beings?" Artemis asked, her voice taut with disbelief. "That's impossible. The ritual requires precise incantations, rare materials, and years of preparation."
"Well, I just touched it with my slipper," Saitama replied, demonstrating by tapping the now-fading circle again. Nothing happened this time. "See? It was glowing before."
Proto Merlin knelt to examine the remnants of the circle, her expression growing increasingly troubled. "This is ancient magic—a divine binding circle from the Age of Gods. It was designed to summon divine servants to a worthy champion, but..." She traced the incomplete section with a finger. "It's unfinished. The binding parameters were never set."
"What does that mean?" Saitama asked, mildly curious but not particularly concerned.
"It means we have been summoned to serve a champion, but without proper constraints or purpose," Amaterasu explained, her voice edged with irritation. "We are bound to you, yet not bound correctly."
"So you're... stuck here?" Saitama raised an eyebrow. "In the human world?"
"Precisely," Europa confirmed, her voice calm despite the situation. "We cannot return to our divine realms without breaking this binding, flawed though it may be."
"And our powers," Artemis added with barely contained fury, "are greatly diminished in this mortal realm. We retain but a fraction of our true divine capabilities."
Aphrodite, who had been studying Saitama with increasing interest, suddenly laughed—a sound like silver bells. "Oh, but this is delicious! Summoned by accident, bound to a mortal who wasn't even trying, and all because he wanted to clean graffiti? The Fates have an exquisite sense of humor."
"I fail to see the humor in this situation," Artemis snapped, her bow pulsing with suppressed energy.
"Don't you?" Aphrodite circled Saitama slowly, her wings folding against her back as she moved. "Five goddesses, bound to serve a champion who doesn't even want us. It's perfect irony." She leaned close to Saitama's ear, her breath warm against his skin. "And such an interesting champion too. There's something about you, mortal. Something... powerful."
Saitama stepped back, seeming more concerned with personal space than divine revelations. "Listen, this is weird and all, but I've got stuff to do. There's a bargain sale at the supermarket ending in twenty minutes."
"A... bargain sale?" Europa repeated, as if testing unfamiliar words.
"Yeah, 70% off eggplants after 9 PM. I need to get there before they're gone." Saitama checked his watch with far more concern than he'd shown for the divine summoning.
The goddesses once again exchanged glances, this time of pure bewilderment.
"You have summoned five divine beings from across pantheons and ages," Artemis stated, her voice cold with disbelief, "and your concern is discounted vegetables?"
"The eggplants are really cheap," Saitama explained earnestly. "And I'm on a budget."
Proto Merlin stood, brushing off her knees. "The binding is clear, regardless of how it happened. We are now your divine attendants until the spell can be reversed—if it can be reversed at all."
"So you have to... what? Follow me around?" Saitama scratched his head, looking at the five divine beings with mild confusion.
"We are bound to serve the one who completed the summoning circle—however accidentally," Amaterasu explained, her imperial dignity somewhat strained. "We must remain within a certain distance of you at all times, and we are compelled to serve your needs."
"Well, I need eggplants," Saitama said simply. "So I guess you can come with me to the supermarket."
And with that, the bald hero in house slippers turned and began walking toward the street, apparently expecting five goddesses to follow him to a vegetable sale.
After a moment of stunned silence, they did.
"This is absurd," Artemis muttered, her bow dematerializing as she reluctantly followed. "I am the divine huntress, not some mortal's shopping companion."
"I find it refreshing," Aphrodite countered, her wings shimmering and fading into a more human-appropriate appearance—though her beauty remained overwhelming. "How long has it been since any of us experienced something truly new?"
Europa adjusted her royal finery, somehow making it appear more subdued—less divine queen and more elegant modern woman. "We should observe and learn. This mortal realm has clearly changed since our time of worship."
Amaterasu's imperial robes shifted slightly, becoming less ostentatious though still regal. "I have watched the island nation from afar. Much has indeed changed." Her eyes remained fixed on Saitama's back. "Though I sense something unusual about this mortal. His spirit burns with an intensity I have rarely witnessed."
Proto Merlin, who had been watching Saitama with particular interest, nodded. "There's more to him than appears. The circle wouldn't have activated for just anyone, incomplete or not."
As Saitama led his divine entourage toward the supermarket, passersby stopped and stared at the five impossibly beautiful women following the plain-looking bald man in casual clothes. Some took pictures with their phones, others whispered speculations, but Saitama remained oblivious to it all—focused entirely on reaching the eggplant sale before closing time.
"This is going to be interesting," Proto Merlin murmured, a small smile playing on her lips as she observed both Saitama and her fellow divine beings. "Very interesting indeed."
## Chapter 2: Eggplants and Accommodations
The Z-City Supermarket was not prepared for divine visitation.
As Saitama marched purposefully toward the produce section, five otherworldly beautiful women in his wake, every shopper and employee stopped to stare. Some abandoned their carts mid-aisle. One teenager working the register dropped an entire carton of eggs. The manager emerged from his office, mouth agape, wondering if celebrities had somehow wandered into his modest establishment.
Saitama noticed none of this. His focus was entirely on the eggplant display, where a hand-written sign proclaimed "70% OFF – TODAY ONLY!"
"Nice! Still some left," he said with more enthusiasm than he'd shown for anything else that evening. He began carefully selecting eggplants, testing their firmness with practiced fingers.
The goddesses stood nearby, creating a tableau of beauty amid the fluorescent lighting and linoleum floors. Each processed their new surroundings differently.
Artemis surveyed the store with obvious distaste, her nose wrinkling at the artificial lights and processed foods. "What manner of market is this? Where are the fresh kills? The grain offerings? Everything is wrapped in... strange skins." She prodded a shrink-wrapped package of chicken breasts with visible suspicion.
Aphrodite, meanwhile, was thoroughly enjoying the attention of every male shopper in the vicinity. She leaned provocatively against a display of canned goods, causing a middle-aged man to walk directly into a stack of soup cans. "The mortals still appreciate beauty, at least," she purred, winking at a blushing teenager who had been staring at her for a full minute without blinking.
Europa moved with regal purpose, examining the organized shelves with the eye of someone who had managed palace storerooms. "The abundance is impressive," she noted. "Even the common folk have access to foods from across the world. This would have been unimaginable in my time."
Amaterasu found herself drawn to the rice section, studying the various varieties with unexpected interest. "The sacred grain remains important, I see. Though these processing methods are unfamiliar." She lifted a bag of instant rice, reading the cooking instructions with narrowed eyes.
Proto Merlin wandered the aisles with childlike fascination, touching everything from ice cream containers to bundles of toilet paper. "The ingenuity of humans never ceases to amaze me," she mused. "They've created substitutes for magic in every aspect of life."
Saitama, having selected a dozen perfect eggplants, moved on to the discount meat section, where chicken thighs were also on sale. As he bent to examine the packages, a store employee nervously approached.
"Excuse me, sir," the young man said, eyes darting between Saitama and the five goddesses. "Are you... is this... some kind of promotion?"
Saitama looked up, confused. "What promotion?"
"These women," the employee gestured vaguely at the goddesses. "Are they... cosplayers? Celebrities? Should I call my manager?"
"Oh, them," Saitama shrugged. "They're just... uh..." He suddenly realized he had no easy explanation for five otherworldly beautiful women following him through a supermarket.
Aphrodite glided forward, her golden eyes locking with the employee's. "We're his... companions," she said, her voice working a subtle magic that made the young man's cheeks flush. "Is there a problem?"
"N-no problem at all," the employee stammered. "Just... enjoy your shopping!" He backed away quickly, nearly tripping over a display of bananas.
Artemis watched the interaction with a frown. "We should not linger in this public place. We attract too much attention in our current forms."
"Agreed," Europa nodded. "We must find suitable accommodation and discuss our situation properly."
Saitama, who had moved on to examining discounted tofu, looked up. "Oh yeah, my apartment is pretty small. Not sure where you'd all sleep."
This practical concern seemed to finally bring home the reality of their situation. Five divine beings, accustomed to celestial palaces and sacred groves, would need somewhere to stay in the mortal world.
"Your dwelling is inadequate?" Amaterasu asked, frowning.
"It's just a small apartment," Saitama explained, adding tofu to his basket. "One bedroom, small kitchen. I wasn't exactly expecting company, especially not five... whatever you are."
"Goddesses," Artemis corrected sharply. "We are divine beings of immense power, not 'whatever.'"
"Right, goddesses," Saitama nodded absently, moving toward the checkout. "Anyway, we'll figure something out."
As Saitama paid for his groceries (the cashier's hands trembling as she tried not to stare at his divine entourage), Proto Merlin studied him with increasing curiosity. There was something distinctly unusual about this seemingly ordinary human. Despite being surrounded by beings of divine power and beauty, he remained utterly unfazed—concerned with eggplants and living arrangements rather than the metaphysical implications of his situation.
Outside the supermarket, the night air had grown cool. Saitama carried his grocery bags easily, leading the procession back toward his apartment building. The streets were mostly empty at this hour, though the few passersby invariably stopped and stared at the strange group.
"So, Master," Aphrodite began, slipping her arm through Saitama's with practiced grace, "what sort of champion are you, exactly? A great warrior? A king? A chosen one?"
"I'm just a guy who's a hero for fun," Saitama replied, gently disengaging his arm from her grasp.
"A... hero for fun?" Artemis repeated skeptically. "What does that mean?"
"I fight monsters and save people. But I don't do it for money or fame or anything. Just for fun."
The goddesses exchanged glances again—a habit they were quickly developing in response to their unusual summoner.
"You battle creatures of darkness for... amusement?" Amaterasu asked slowly.
"Pretty much, yeah," Saitama nodded. "Though it's not really that amusing anymore. They all die in one punch."
This statement caused all five goddesses to stop in their tracks. Saitama continued walking for several steps before realizing they had halted, then turned back with a questioning look.
"What do you mean, 'they all die in one punch'?" Europa asked carefully.
Saitama shrugged. "Exactly what I said. I punch them once, and they're done. It's kind of boring, actually."
Proto Merlin's eyes widened. "All opponents? No matter their size or power?"
"Yeah, every time," Saitama said, a note of genuine disappointment entering his voice. "I haven't found anyone who can give me a real fight in years."
The goddesses stared at him with new eyes. This unremarkable-looking human claimed to defeat any foe with a single strike—a power that would be extraordinary even among the gods.
"You expect us to believe—" Artemis began skeptically, but she was interrupted by a distant roar that shook the ground beneath their feet.
Several blocks away, a building collapsed as something massive burst through it. Even from this distance, they could see an enormous creature—vaguely insectoid but with a humanoid torso and four massive pincers—tearing through the city infrastructure. It had to be at least thirty meters tall, its carapace gleaming under the streetlights.
"Monster attack," Saitama noted calmly, as if remarking on the weather. He handed his grocery bags to a startled Europa. "Could you hold these? I'll be right back."
Before any of the goddesses could respond, Saitama was gone—moving so quickly that even their divine senses could barely track him. One moment he stood before them; the next, he was a yellow blur racing toward the monster.
"Did he just—" Artemis began.
"Move faster than divine sight?" Proto Merlin finished, her voice filled with wonder. "Yes, I believe he did."
They watched as Saitama reached the creature in seconds. The monster noticed him—a tiny figure at its feet—and roared something unintelligible before swinging a massive pincer down to crush him.
Saitama didn't dodge. He simply drew back his fist and punched upward as the pincer descended.
The result defied comprehension.
Not only did the pincer shatter, but the force continued through the monster's entire body, rippling upward from the point of impact like a wave. For a brief moment, the creature's form bulged grotesquely before exploding into countless fragments that rained down across several city blocks.
One punch. Just as he had said.
The goddesses stood in stunned silence as Saitama casually walked back to them, wiping something unidentifiable from his sleeve.
"Sorry about that," he said, reclaiming his grocery bags from the still-shocked Europa. "Let's get back before the tofu spoils."
The rest of the walk to Saitama's apartment passed in contemplative silence, each goddess reassessing their initial impressions of their accidental summoner. This was no ordinary human. Whatever power he possessed, it rivaled—perhaps even surpassed—divine strength.
Saitama's apartment building was exactly as unremarkable as he had implied—a simple, somewhat run-down structure in a quiet neighborhood. He led them up the stairs to his unit, unlocked the door, and stepped inside, switching on the lights to reveal a space that could generously be described as "modest."
A small kitchen area, a living space with a low table and cushions, a television set, a bookshelf with manga, a bathroom, and a single bedroom visible through a partially open door. Clean but spartan, with few decorations or personal touches.
"This is where you dwell?" Amaterasu asked, unable to keep the disbelief from her voice. She, who had been worshipped in magnificent shrines and imperial palaces, could scarcely comprehend such humble accommodations.
"Yep," Saitama replied, placing his groceries on the kitchen counter and beginning to put them away. "Rent's cheap."
The goddesses cautiously entered, each finding a place to stand or sit in the limited space. Despite their ability to adjust their divine presence, the small apartment felt overcrowded with six beings inside it.
"This will not suffice," Europa declared with gentle firmness. "A champion of your caliber should dwell in more suitable accommodation, regardless of your preferences for simplicity."
"I like my apartment," Saitama said defensively. "It's got everything I need."
"It doesn't have space for five additional inhabitants," Artemis pointed out pragmatically.
Saitama had to concede this point. He looked around at the goddesses, who were attempting to make themselves comfortable in his limited living space. Aphrodite had perched on his couch, her wings (now visible again in the privacy of the apartment) curled carefully to avoid knocking over a lamp. Artemis stood by the window, gazing out at the urban landscape with poorly concealed longing for open skies. Europa had instinctively moved to the kitchen, organizing his newly purchased groceries more efficiently than he would have. Amaterasu knelt with perfect posture at his low table, her imperial bearing incongruous with the cheap furniture. Proto Merlin had discovered his bookshelf and was examining his manga collection with delighted curiosity.
"So what exactly does this whole 'divine attendants' thing mean?" Saitama asked, sitting cross-legged on the floor. "What are you supposed to do?"
Proto Merlin looked up from a volume of "One-Punch Man" (ironically a manga about a fictional hero modeled after Saitama himself, though none of them recognized the connection). "Traditionally, divine servants summoned through such circles were bound to assist a champion in a great quest or war. They would lend their powers, knowledge, and skills to their master's cause."
"I don't really have a cause," Saitama admitted. "I just fight monsters when they show up."
"Perhaps that is cause enough," Europa suggested. "From what we witnessed tonight, your realm is beset by dangerous creatures. While you clearly possess the strength to defeat them, perhaps we can assist in other ways."
"Like what?" Saitama asked, genuinely curious.
"I could track monsters before they emerge, anticipating attacks rather than merely responding to them," Artemis offered, warming slightly to the idea despite her initial resistance.
"I could help navigate the social complexities of your world," Aphrodite suggested with a sly smile. "Divine beauty can open many doors that strength alone cannot."
"My experience governing Crete would serve well in matters of organization and strategy," Europa added. "A hero's work extends beyond combat."
"The power of the sun can bring light to the darkest places," Amaterasu stated. "Both literally and figuratively. I sense shadow creatures in this world that would flee before my radiance."
"And dreams touch all beings," Proto Merlin concluded. "I can glimpse possibilities, potential futures, hidden truths. Information that might prove valuable in your heroic endeavors."
Saitama blinked slowly, processing these offers. It wasn't that he particularly needed help—most threats ended with a single punch, after all—but something about their willingness to adapt to the situation struck him as oddly endearing.
"That all sounds... pretty useful, actually," he admitted. "But we still have the space problem. You can't all stay here."
As if on cue, there was a sharp knock at the door. Saitama opened it to find Genos, his cyborg disciple, standing in the hallway with his usual intense expression.
"Master," Genos began, then stopped abruptly as he registered the presence of five otherworldly beautiful women in Saitama's apartment. His mechanical eyes whirred slightly as they adjusted, scanning each goddess in turn. "Master," he began again, more cautiously, "who are these individuals?"
Before Saitama could answer, Artemis had materialized her bow, aiming it directly at Genos's head. "Identify yourself, metal man. Are you threat or ally to our master?"
"Your master?" Genos's eyes narrowed, his arms transforming subtly into combat mode. "Saitama-sensei is my master. I am his disciple."
"Stand down, Artemis," Saitama said calmly. "Genos is my student. He's cool."
The huntress goddess reluctantly lowered her bow, though it remained manifested in her hands. "A student? You train others in your power?"
"I try to," Saitama shrugged. "Though I'm not sure how much he's learning, to be honest."
"Master," Genos persisted, still on high alert, "these women possess unusual energy signatures unlike anything in my database. Are they a new form of monster? Experimental cyborgs? Aliens?"
"They're goddesses," Saitama explained simply. "I accidentally summoned them while cleaning some weird graffiti. Now they're stuck here and need a place to stay."
Genos processed this information with remarkable composure, given its absurdity. But he had witnessed enough extraordinary phenomena since becoming Saitama's disciple that divine summoning hardly seemed implausible.
"I see," he said finally. "This explains the unusual energy surge I detected earlier this evening." He bowed formally to the assembled goddesses. "I am Genos, cyborg hero and disciple of Saitama-sensei. If my master has summoned you, then I welcome you as allies."
The tension in the room eased slightly. Europa stepped forward, returning Genos's bow with regal grace. "Well met, Genos. I am Europa, and these are my divine sisters: Artemis, Aphrodite, Amaterasu, and Proto Merlin. We find ourselves bound to your master through ancient magic, though the binding was... unintentional."
"A fortunate accident nonetheless," Aphrodite purred, studying Genos with open curiosity. "What fascinating craftsmanship you represent. Man and machine intertwined."
Genos, immune to most human charms but not entirely unaffected by divine beauty, maintained his composure admirably. "Master, if these divine beings require accommodation, perhaps the Hero Association could assist. As an S-Class hero, you are entitled to substantial living quarters which you have thus far declined."
Saitama frowned. "Those fancy apartments? They're too much. I like simple."
"With respect, Master," Genos pressed, "your circumstances have changed. A larger living space would be practical, not merely luxurious."
Proto Merlin, who had been quietly observing the interaction, stepped forward. "If I may, the binding spell requires us to remain within approximately one thousand meters of our master unless specifically commanded otherwise. Any new dwelling would need to account for this limitation."
Genos nodded thoughtfully. "The Hero Association's S-Class accommodations are designed for heroes with special requirements or teams. They would be well-suited to this situation."
Saitama looked around his small apartment, mentally calculating how five additional beings—divine or otherwise—could possibly fit into his daily life in such a confined space. Even he, with his characteristic detachment, had to admit the impracticality.
"Fine," he sighed. "We can check out the Hero Association place tomorrow. But if it's too fancy or weird, we're figuring out something else."
"A wise decision, Master," Europa approved. "Proper accommodation will allow us to serve you more effectively."
"I still don't really get what 'serving' me means," Saitama admitted, scratching his head. "I'm pretty self-sufficient."
Amaterasu, who had remained regally silent during most of the exchange, spoke with unexpected warmth. "Service takes many forms. For now, perhaps the simplest way to begin is for us to learn about your world and your role within it. Understanding precedes effective action."
"Yeah, okay," Saitama nodded. "That makes sense. Genos can help with that part. He's good at explaining stuff."
Genos straightened with pride at this rare compliment from his master. "I would be honored to assist in orienting our divine guests to modern society and hero operations."
"Now we just need to figure out sleeping arrangements for tonight," Saitama said, looking around his limited space with a frown.
"I require very little rest," Genos offered. "I can remain in standby mode while seated."
"I can manifest bedding from divine materials," Proto Merlin suggested, her staff glowing softly. With a gesture, shimmering petal-like constructs appeared, forming comfortable-looking resting places that somehow didn't take up physical space in the conventional sense. "These dream-beds exist partially in another dimension. They will provide comfort without consuming your limited floor space."
Saitama stared at the ethereal constructs with mild surprise—one of the few genuine reactions he had shown all evening. "Huh. That's actually pretty convenient."
"We aim to serve, Master," Proto Merlin replied with a small smile.
As the unlikely group settled in for the night, an unusual calm descended on the small apartment. Saitama retired to his bedroom after showing Genos and the goddesses where to find extra towels and explaining how to use the bathroom facilities. The goddesses arranged themselves on Proto Merlin's dream-beds, while Genos positioned himself near the door in a sentinel-like posture, entering a low-power mode that left him alert to potential threats.
In the quiet darkness, Proto Merlin whispered to her divine companions, "There is more to this mortal than any of us initially perceived. His power... it's beyond anything I've encountered."
"Yet he lives in this tiny dwelling and concerns himself with discounted vegetables," Artemis replied skeptically. "A true champion would seek glory, conquest, worship."
"Perhaps that is precisely what makes him worthy," Europa suggested thoughtfully. "Power without ambition or corruption. When was the last time any of us encountered such a thing?"
"He is beautiful in his simplicity," Aphrodite mused. "Like a perfect stone in a riverbed, shaped by forces he doesn't fully comprehend."
"The rising sun often begins as the faintest glow on the horizon," Amaterasu added cryptically. "We should reserve judgment until we have witnessed more of his nature."
As the goddesses drifted into their various forms of divine rest, Saitama lay awake in his bed, staring at the ceiling and wondering how his routine monster-punching life had suddenly become so complicated. Still, as he finally drifted off ## Chapter 3: Hero Association and Divine Adjustments
Saitama lay awake in his bed, staring at the ceiling and wondering how his routine monster-punching life had suddenly become so complicated. Still, as he finally drifted off to sleep, he couldn't shake the strange feeling that despite the inconvenience, something interesting might finally be happening in his too-predictable existence.
Morning arrived with the scent of something unexpected—good cooking.
Saitama's eyes snapped open. The aroma wafting through his small apartment was unlike anything that had emerged from his own minimal culinary efforts. He pulled on his hero suit pants and a plain t-shirt before venturing into the main room.
The scene that greeted him was surreal. Europa stood at his tiny kitchen counter, somehow managing to prepare what looked like a feast despite his limited ingredients and cookware. Artemis sat cross-legged by the window, eyes closed in meditation as the morning sunlight glinted off her silver-blue hair. Aphrodite lounged on his couch, wings tucked away but beauty undiminished, flipping through a fashion magazine with amused interest. Amaterasu knelt at his low table, arranging a simple but elegant flower in a cup of water—where she'd found the flower, he couldn't guess. Proto Merlin sat beside Genos, the two engaged in intense conversation about cyborg physiology and magical energy conversion principles.
"Good morning, Master," Europa greeted him warmly, her lavender eyes bright. "I've prepared breakfast from your available provisions. I hope it meets with your approval."
Saitama blinked, momentarily disoriented by the domesticity of the scene. "Uh, thanks. You didn't have to do that."
"It is my pleasure," Europa replied, setting down a plate of something that resembled an omelet but looked far more appetizing than anything Saitama had ever made. "As queen, I oversaw the royal kitchens. Preparation of food is both an art and a duty."
Saitama sat at the table, noting with mild surprise that it had been perfectly set with his mismatched dishes arranged to somehow look intentional rather than haphazard. He took a bite of the omelet and his eyes widened slightly.
"This is really good," he admitted, continuing to eat with increasing enthusiasm.
Europa beamed with quiet pride, while Aphrodite glanced up from her magazine with a sly smile. "The way to a man's heart, even a hero's, begins with his stomach. Well played, Queen of Crete."
"There is no 'play' involved," Europa replied serenely. "Service is its own reward."
Artemis opened her eyes, her meditation apparently complete. "I sensed three monster emergences during the night," she reported. "All minor, all dispatched by local authorities. The moon's position reveals increasing activity patterns, however. We should expect more significant threats within days."
Genos nodded appreciatively. "Your divine senses would greatly enhance the Hero Association's early warning systems. Currently, we often only respond after civilian reports or property damage."
"Speaking of the Hero Association," Saitama said between bites, "I guess we should head over there after breakfast and check out that apartment thing."
"I have already contacted them," Genos replied. "They are preparing the S-Class residence for immediate occupancy. They seemed... extremely enthusiastic about your decision to finally accept their offer."
"I bet," Saitama muttered. "They're always trying to get me more involved with official hero stuff."
"As they should," Amaterasu commented, adjusting her improvised flower arrangement. "Power carries responsibility, whether one seeks it or not."
"That's what I keep telling Master," Genos agreed fervently.
Proto Merlin, who had been relatively quiet, suddenly looked up. "Something approaches," she whispered. "Something... significant."
Before anyone could question her meaning, a tremendous crash shook the building. Plaster dust rained from the ceiling as the walls trembled. A roar that seemed to vibrate the air itself followed.
"Level Dragon threat," Genos stated, immediately shifting to combat mode, his arms transforming into incinerators. "Approximately two blocks away and approaching rapidly."
"Dragon?" Saitama asked, continuing to eat his breakfast calmly. "I'll finish this first. It's really good."
The goddesses exchanged glances of disbelief as another impact, closer this time, shook the apartment hard enough to knock books from shelves.
"Master," Artemis said with barely contained urgency, "a creature of significant power is destroying your city."
"Yeah, happens pretty much every week," Saitama shrugged, taking his last bite and standing. "Guess I should take care of it before it hits the building. These rent prices are good."
As he moved toward the door, a massive scaled appendage—something between a tentacle and a claw—smashed through the wall of his apartment, sending debris flying everywhere. Saitama sidestepped it casually, looking more annoyed about the property damage than concerned about the attack.
"Hey! I'm going to lose my security deposit," he complained.
The goddesses reacted instantly, their divine natures emerging despite their diminished powers. Artemis materialized her bow and fired a shaft of pure moonlight into the appendage, causing the creature to roar in pain. Aphrodite's eyes flashed gold as she attempted to confuse the monster with divine allure. Europa stood protectively in front of the kitchen area, a sudden regal authority emanating from her slender form. Amaterasu's skin began to glow with solar energy, while Proto Merlin's staff thrummed with dream-magic.
"Ladies, I got this," Saitama said, cracking his knuckles. "It's just a monster."
He approached the massive appendage, which was still thrashing around his living room, and delivered a casual flick with his finger. The impact reverberated like a sonic boom, and the appendage not only withdrew but appeared to disintegrate from the point of contact, the destructive force traveling up its length.
A distant, agonized roar suggested the creature had received the message.
"There," Saitama dusted his hands. "Problem solved."
He turned to find all five goddesses staring at him with varying expressions of shock, reassessment, and in Aphrodite's case, unmistakable interest.
"You... defeated it without even leaving the apartment," Proto Merlin whispered, her pinkish-purple eyes wide.
"Just sent it a warning," Saitama corrected, looking through the new hole in his wall at the retreating form of what appeared to be a dragon-squid hybrid creature missing several limbs. "If it comes back, I'll finish it properly."
"Master's power remains incomprehensible," Genos nodded, as if confirming a known fact. "This is why I follow him."
"We should leave before the structural integrity of this building is further compromised," Europa suggested practically, gathering the breakfast dishes with calm efficiency despite the destruction around them. "And before more creatures are drawn to your power."
Saitama looked around at his damaged apartment and sighed. "Yeah, I guess we should check out that Hero Association place after all."
---
The Hero Association headquarters loomed above them, a gleaming monument to the organized business of heroism. As Saitama approached the entrance with his unusual entourage—five impossibly beautiful women and a serious-looking cyborg—employees and visiting heroes stopped to stare.
The receptionist at the front desk nearly dropped her tablet when they entered. "S-Saitama-san! We've been expecting you. The executive committee is assembled on the top floor to welcome you and your... guests."
"Great," Saitama replied without enthusiasm. "Let's get this over with."
In the elevator, Aphrodite took the opportunity to press herself against Saitama's side, her divine perfume filling the enclosed space. "Tell me, Master," she purred, "do you find these 'hero' duties fulfilling? Or is there something else you desire from life?"
Saitama shifted uncomfortably, unaccustomed to such proximity. "Not really. I became a hero hoping to feel the thrill of battle again, but everything dies in one punch. It's kind of disappointing."
"The curse of ultimate power," Artemis commented from the other side of the elevator. "No worthy challenges remain."
"Yeah, exactly," Saitama nodded, surprised to find understanding from the aloof huntress.
"Perhaps your challenge lies not in combat but in other arenas," Europa suggested diplomatically.
"Like what?" Saitama asked.
Before Europa could answer, the elevator doors opened to reveal a committee of Hero Association executives in expensive suits, all wearing expressions of intense eagerness.
"Demon Cyborg! Caped Baldy!" exclaimed the lead executive, using their official hero names. "Welcome, welcome! And these must be your... associates?"
"Exchange students," Genos supplied again, sticking to their cover story.
"Yes, of course," the executive nodded, clearly not believing it but unwilling to question an S-Class hero. "Well, we're thrilled that you've finally decided to accept our housing offer. The Platinum Hero Suite is our most prestigious accommodation."
As they followed the executives down a plush hallway, Amaterasu leaned close to Saitama. "They address you as 'Caped Baldy'? Is this a title of honor in your culture?"
"It's my hero name," Saitama muttered. "Not my choice."
"A strange designation for one of your power," Amaterasu frowned. "In my realm, you would be granted a name to inspire awe and reverence."
"Like what?"
Amaterasu considered for a moment. "Perhaps 'Heaven-Shaking Fist' or 'He Who Ends with One Strike.'"
"That... actually sounds pretty cool," Saitama admitted.
The executive stopped before an ornate door at the end of the hallway. "Here we are! The Platinum Hero Suite. Reserved for our most distinguished S-Class heroes."
He pressed his palm to a scanner, and the door slid open to reveal a space that could only be described as luxurious. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the city. The living area alone was larger than Saitama's entire apartment, with plush furniture arranged around a central fireplace. A state-of-the-art kitchen gleamed with stainless steel appliances. Hallways led to what presumably were bedrooms and other facilities.
"This is too fancy," Saitama said immediately, discomfort evident on his face.
"Nonsense!" the executive insisted. "It's merely commensurate with your status. The suite includes six bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a training room, a meditation space, and a library. All the amenities an S-Class hero could require."
The goddesses moved into the space with varying reactions. Artemis immediately headed for the windows, gazing out at the distant mountains with longing. Aphrodite examined the luxurious furnishings with approving nods. Europa moved directly to the kitchen, inventorying the facilities with quiet competence. Amaterasu discovered the meditation room and disappeared inside. Proto Merlin drifted toward the library, drawn by the promise of knowledge.
"I'll arrange for your belongings to be transferred from your previous residence," the executive continued smoothly. "Is there anything specific you require to make your stay more comfortable?"
"Nothing so lavish is necessary," Saitama murmured, still looking uncomfortable.
"Actually," Europa interjected, "if seasonal produce could be delivered regularly, I would be most appreciative. Fresh ingredients are essential for proper nutrition."
"Of course, of course!" the executive nodded enthusiastically. "We can arrange daily deliveries from our premium suppliers."
"And perhaps access to natural areas?" Artemis added from the window. "Forests, mountains, unpopulated regions?"
"The Hero Association maintains several wilderness preserves for training purposes," the executive confirmed. "I'll ensure you have full access."
"Information on local fashion would be appreciated," Aphrodite called from where she was lounging on a plush sofa. "We need to adapt to current styles."
"Our personal shopping service is at your disposal," the executive assured her.
Saitama watched this exchange with growing bemusement. The goddesses were settling into their roles as his "attendants" with remarkable ease, each finding ways to adapt their divine natures to the modern world.
After the executives finally left, promising to send additional information and supplies, Saitama collapsed onto one of the enormous sofas. "This is way too much," he complained. "I'm not used to all this fancy stuff."
"Proper accommodations befit a champion of your caliber," Europa insisted gently, returning from her inspection of the kitchen. "And the space will allow us to serve you more effectively without crowding."
"You keep talking about 'serving' me," Saitama said. "But I still don't get what that means exactly."
Proto Merlin emerged from the library, several books already in her arms. "Perhaps it would help to demonstrate rather than explain," she suggested. "Each of us possesses unique divine attributes that might complement your heroic activities."
"Like what?" Saitama asked skeptically.
"A practical test," Genos proposed. "The Hero Association is currently monitoring several emerging threats. Perhaps the goddesses could assist in addressing them, showcasing their abilities in real-world conditions."
"That makes sense," Saitama nodded. "Better than sitting around this fancy place anyway."
"I shall coordinate with the Association's monitoring systems," Genos continued. "They will direct us to appropriate situations for demonstration purposes."
As Genos made the necessary arrangements, the goddesses took the opportunity to further explore their new accommodations and adapt to their mortal forms.
Saitama found himself wandering the enormous apartment, feeling out of place among the luxury. He eventually discovered a balcony overlooking the city and stepped outside, hoping for some fresh air and perspective.
He was surprised to find Artemis already there, her silver-blue hair flowing in the gentle breeze as she gazed at the distant horizon.
"Oh, sorry," he said, turning to leave. "Didn't mean to interrupt."
"You may join me, Master," Artemis replied, her voice less cold than before. "It is your dwelling, after all."
Saitama hesitated, then moved to stand beside her at the railing. They stood in silence for a moment, watching the city below.
"You don't seem to like it here," Saitama observed finally. "In this world, I mean."
Artemis's bright blue eyes remained fixed on the distant mountains. "I am a goddess of the wild places, the untamed forests and moonlit mountains. This world of stone and metal is... discomforting."
"Yeah, I get that," Saitama nodded. "Cities can be pretty confining."
Artemis glanced at him with mild surprise. "You understand the call of the wild?"
"I used to train in abandoned areas," Saitama explained. "Running through mountains, swimming in rivers. It was peaceful. No people around to complicate things."
For the first time, a small smile touched Artemis's lips. "Perhaps there is more hunter in you than I initially perceived, Caped Baldy."
"Just Saitama is fine," he replied. "The hero name is kind of embarrassing."
"Saitama," Artemis repeated, as if testing the sound. "A simple name for one of such power."
"I'm just a guy who's a hero for fun," he shrugged. "The power thing was kind of an accident."
"How does one accidentally achieve strength that rivals the gods?" Artemis asked, genuine curiosity breaking through her reserved demeanor.
"Training, I guess? 100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 100 squats, and a 10-kilometer run. Every single day for three years."
Artemis stared at him in disbelief. "That's... it? No divine blessing? No magical enhancement?"
"Nope. Just regular training until my hair fell out."
The goddess fell silent, processing this information. "In all my immortal existence," she said finally, "I have never encountered anything so inexplicable. Even the gods' powers have origin stories, explanations, cosmic purposes."
"Yeah, well, I just wanted to be strong enough to be a hero," Saitama said simply. "And now I am. Too strong, actually. It's pretty boring."
Before Artemis could respond, the balcony door slid open and Aphrodite emerged, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief.
"There you are, Master," she purred, sidling up to Saitama's other side. "Bonding with our serious huntress, I see. How delightful."
Artemis's expression immediately cooled. "We were merely discussing training methodologies."
"Of course you were," Aphrodite smirked. "Always the practical one." She turned her full attention to Saitama, leaning close enough that her shoulder brushed his. "While Artemis concerns herself with training and hunting, perhaps you'd be interested in exploring other... divine attributes?"
Saitama looked confused. "Like what?"
"Love, desire, pleasure," Aphrodite suggested, her voice dropping to a seductive whisper. "I am a goddess of many delights, Master. All of which I could share with you."
"Uh—" Saitama began, uncharacteristically flustered.
"Inappropriate," Artemis cut in sharply. "We are bound as attendants, not concubines."
"Speak for yourself, moonlight," Aphrodite retorted playfully. "Service can take many forms, and mine has always been the most enjoyable."
"Our master has expressed no interest in such... diversions," Artemis argued.
"Have you asked him?" Aphrodite challenged.
Both goddesses turned to Saitama, who looked increasingly uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation.
"I, uh, should probably check if Genos found any monsters for us to fight," he said, backing toward the door. "You know, hero stuff."
He retreated hastily into the apartment, leaving the two goddesses on the balcony—Aphrodite amused, Artemis exasperated.
"You're too forward," Artemis criticized once Saitama was gone. "He is unlike other mortals. Your usual methods will not work."
"On the contrary," Aphrodite replied confidently. "He is different precisely because he does not desire power, fame, or wealth. But all beings desire connection, Artemis. Even you. Even him."
"What exactly are you planning, Aphrodite?"
The goddess of beauty smiled mysteriously. "To learn what truly moves his heart, of course. A hero who fights for 'fun' but finds no joy in his victories? There's a fascinating contradiction there, don't you think?"
Artemis said nothing, but her eyes returned to the distant mountains thoughtfully.
Inside, Saitama found Genos coordinating with the Hero Association through a sophisticated communication system in the living room. The other goddesses had gathered as well, each having changed into more modern attire provided by the Association.
"Ah, Master," Genos looked up. "Perfect timing. The Association has reported multiple threats emerging simultaneously across the city. It presents an ideal opportunity to test your divine attendants' capabilities."
"Multiple threats?" Saitama frowned. "That's unusual."
"Indeed," Proto Merlin agreed, her expression troubled. "I sense a pattern in these emergences. They are not random."
"What do you mean?" Europa asked.
"Something is stirring the darkness," Proto Merlin explained. "These creatures are being drawn or driven to the surface by an external force."
"Can you identify the source?" Genos inquired.
Proto Merlin shook her head. "Not precisely. But there is purpose behind these attacks. A testing of defenses, perhaps. An assessment of the city's protectors."
"Well, they picked the wrong city to mess with," Saitama said, rolling his shoulders. "Let's go show them what we can do."
Artemis and Aphrodite rejoined the group as Genos displayed a map of the city with five flashing points indicating monster emergences.
"I propose we divide our forces," Genos suggested. "Each goddess could address one threat, demonstrating their individual capabilities, while Master observes."
"I can eliminate all five in under a minute," Saitama pointed out.
"Of course, Master," Genos acknowledged. "But this exercise is to evaluate your new attendants' potential contributions."
"Fine," Saitama shrugged. "But I'll tag along in case things get out of hand."
The group departed the Hero Association tower, splitting into five teams, each headed toward a different disturbance. Saitama chose to accompany Artemis first, curious about the huntress's combat abilities.
They traveled to the eastern edge of the city, where reports indicated a pack of wolf-like creatures with multiple heads had emerged from the sewers.
"Cerberus spawn," Artemis identified as they approached the cordoned-off area where the creatures were being contained by lower-ranked heroes. "Lesser cousins of the hound of Hades. They should not exist in this realm."
"You know these things?" Saitama asked.
"In my time, the barriers between realms occasionally weakened, allowing such creatures to cross over. Hunting them was one of my divine duties." Artemis materialized her bow, which glowed with soft blue light. "These are but pale imitations of true mythic beasts, however."
The creatures—each the size of a small car with three snarling heads—prowled behind the police barricade, their red eyes glowing ominously. There were seven in total, each looking more than capable of tearing apart an ordinary human.
"Stand aside," Artemis commanded the exhausted heroes who had been containing the pack. "These creatures fall under my divine jurisdiction."
Before anyone could question her authority, she stepped forward and loosed an arrow of pure moonlight. The shaft split into seven distinct beams mid-flight, each finding a home in a creature's central head. The beasts collapsed simultaneously, their bodies dissolving into shadowy mist that evaporated in the morning sunlight.
The assembled heroes and police stared in stunned silence.
"Efficient," Saitama commented approvingly. "One shot for all seven."
"In my prime, I could have banished their entire species from this plane with a single arrow," Artemis replied, a hint of frustration in her voice. "This binding limits my divine aspect significantly."
"Still pretty impressive," Saitama assured her, genuinely appreciative of her skill.
A faint blush colored Artemis's cheeks at the unexpected praise. "Thank you, Ma—Saitama," she corrected herself, remembering his preference.
Their communicators buzzed with Genos's voice. "Master, Aphrodite has encountered difficulties with her assignment. Assistance required."
They rushed across the city to find Aphrodite confronting a massive humanoid creature with stone-like skin and multiple glowing eyes. Unlike the wolf creatures, this monster appeared resistant to divine influence.
"My charms don't affect it," Aphrodite explained as they arrived, her golden eyes flashing with frustration. "It has no heart to ensnare, no desires to manipulate."
"A golem," Artemis identified. "A construct of earth and base magic. It is animated by artificial means, not life force. Your powers would naturally be ineffective."
The creature roared and swung a massive fist toward a nearby building. Saitama stepped forward, prepared to end the threat with his usual casual punch, but Artemis placed a hand on his arm.
"Allow me to demonstrate a different aspect of the hunt," she suggested.
Nodding to Aphrodite, Artemis circled to the opposite side of the golem. The two goddesses, despite their apparent rivalry, moved with perfect coordination. Artemis fired arrows at specific joints in the creature's stone body, creating weaknesses, while Aphrodite—revealing a more martial aspect of her divine nature—manifested twin golden daggers and attacked those same vulnerabilities with deadly precision.
Within moments, the seemingly invulnerable golem collapsed into a pile of inert rubble.
"Most impressive," Genos commented, arriving at the scene. "Coordinated divine assault utilizing complementary abilities."
"Artemis creates openings, I exploit them," Aphrodite explained with a wink. "We've had aeons to practice working together, despite our... philosophical differences."
"You fight too?" Saitama asked Aphrodite, surprised.
"Love and war are closer cousins than most realize," she replied with a mysterious smile. "Beauty can be a weapon as surely as any bow or blade."
Their communicators buzzed again. "Central financial district under attack," came Europa's calm voice. "The threat is... significant."
When they arrived at the financial district, they found chaos. A creature that resembled a cross between a giant squid and a dragon hovered above the skyscrapers, its tentacles wrapped around multiple buildings while a reptilian head breathed streams of noxious gas.
"The same creature from this morning," Saitama recognized. "Guess it didn't learn its lesson."
Europa stood in the plaza below, her regal bearing unchanged despite the destruction around her. Beside her, Amaterasu had manifested a portion of her divine aspect, her skin glowing with solar radiance.
"We've evacuated the civilians," Europa reported as they joined her. "But the creature's anatomy makes it difficult to target vital points."
"Its regenerative abilities are substantial," Amaterasu added. "I've burned away three tentacles, but they regrow within minutes."
Saitama shrugged. "I can take care of it."
"Wait," Proto Merlin requested, appearing beside them in a swirl of dream-mist. "This is an opportunity to demonstrate coordinated divine intervention. May we attempt a combined assault before you end it, Master?"
Curious, Saitama nodded. "Sure, give it a shot."
The five goddesses exchanged glances, centuries of divine cooperation evident in their wordless communication. They arranged themselves in a formation around the plaza, each calling upon their unique powers.
Artemis fired a shaft of concentrated moonlight directly at the creature's central mass, creating a glowing mark for the others to target. Aphrodite wove a complex illusion, confusing the creature's senses and causing it to tangle its own tentacles. Europa, revealing a previously unseen martial aspect, summoned a golden spear and struck with perfect precision at the illuminated target. Amaterasu channeled solar energy into a focused beam that followed Europa's attack, cauterizing the wound to prevent regeneration. Finally, Proto Merlin wove a spell of binding and banishment, her staff creating a vortex of dream-energy that began to pull the creature toward a pocket dimension.
The combined assault was beautiful to witness—five divine beings working in perfect harmony, each power complementing and amplifying the others.
The creature, however, proved more resilient than expected. With a roar of defiance, it broke free from Proto Merlin's vortex and sent tentacles crashing down toward the goddesses.
Saitama moved faster than even divine eyes could track. One moment he stood watching; the next, he had intercepted every tentacle, holding them effortlessly in one hand.
"Nice try," he said to the goddesses, not unkindly. "But I think it's time to wrap this up."
With a casual flick of his wrist, he sent a shockwave of force traveling up through the tentacles, causing the entire creature to vibrate violently before exploding into countless fragments that rained down across the financial district.
"One punch," Proto Merlin whispered, staring at Saitama with renewed wonder. "Just as you said."
"Actually, that wasn't even a punch," Genos corrected. "Master merely redirected kinetic energy through the creature's own limbs. A fraction of his true capability."
The goddesses exchanged glances again, a new respect evident in their expressions.
"We have much to learn about combining our diminished abilities with Master's incomprehensible strength," Europa acknowledged.
"And about this world's threats," Artemis added. "These creatures are not natural to your realm, Saitama. Their appearance suggests a weakening of dimensional barriers."
"Great," Saitama sighed. "More weird monster stuff."
As cleanup crews from the Hero Association arrived to deal with the aftermath, Saitama found himself surrounded by his divine attendants, each processing the day's events in their own way.
"You moved to protect us," Amaterasu observed quietly. "Despite knowing we are immortal beings."
Saitama shrugged. "Force of habit, I guess. Protecting people is what heroes do."
"Even when those 'people' are divine entities older than your civilization?" Artemis asked.
"I don't really think about that stuff," Saitama admitted. "You were in danger, I helped. Simple."
"Nothing about you is simple, Master," Aphrodite countered, brushing debris from her clothing with elegant gestures. "You are the most beautifully contradictory mortal I've ever encountered."
Saitama, uncomfortable with the praise, changed the subject. "You all did pretty well too. That coordinated attack thing was cool, even if it didn't finish the job."
"With practice, our effectiveness will improve," Europa assured him. "The binding may limit our individual powers, but it does not prevent us from combining what remains."
"And we have much to learn about this modern world and its specific threats," Proto Merlin added. "Knowledge I am eager to acquire."
As they headed back toward the Hero Association tower, Saitama found himself reflecting on the day's events. Having five divine beings as "attendants" was still weird and complicated, but watching them in action had been genuinely interesting—the first truly interesting thing he'd experienced in years.
Maybe, just maybe, this accidental summoning wouldn't be so bad after all.
## Chapter 4: Divine Adjustments and Household Chaos
Life with five goddesses proved to be... unpredictable.
Over the next few days, the unlikely household settled into something resembling a routine, though "routine" seemed an inadequate word for the daily chaos of divine beings adapting to modern life.
Each morning began with Europa's cooking—meals that somehow combined ancient culinary traditions with modern ingredients to create dishes that even Saitama, with his typically indifferent palate, acknowledged as exceptional.
"Your talent in the kitchen reminds me of the royal feasts of Olympus," Amaterasu commented one morning as they gathered around the extravagant dining table in their new apartment. "Though Zeus's attendants had ambrosia and nectar to work with."
"The challenge of mortal ingredients makes the art more satisfying," Europa replied, setting down a platter of perfectly prepared breakfast items. "Limitations inspire creativity."
Saitama, mouth full of food, nodded appreciatively. Even Genos, who didn't strictly need to eat, had taken to analyzing Europa's cooking techniques with his usual intense focus.
"The precise balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and micronutrients is optimized for Master's metabolic requirements," he observed. "Your instinctive understanding of nutritional science is remarkable, Europa-san."
The regal goddess inclined her head graciously. "A queen must know how to sustain her champion's strength."
After breakfast, they typically split up to pursue various activities. Artemis had discovered the Hero Association's wilderness preserves and spent hours each day reconnecting with nature—tracking wildlife, running through forests, and occasionally bringing back fresh game which Europa would transform into extraordinary dinners.
Aphrodite had become fascinated with modern fashion and entertainment, consuming magazines, television shows, and social media with voracious interest. "The ways mortals now pursue beauty and pleasure are so inventive," she declared. "They've created entire industries around desires that once required divine intervention!"
Amaterasu divided her time between meditation—maintaining what remained of her connection to the sun—and exploring Japanese cultural centers, both gratified and amused by how her worship had evolved over the centuries.
Proto Merlin had practically moved into the apartment's library, supplementing its already extensive collection with additional books ordered online—a technology she had mastered with suspicious speed. "Knowledge is the foundation of adaptation," she explained when Saitama questioned the growing stacks of books on everything from quantum physics to pop culture.
Saitama himself continued his hero activities, though now he was rarely alone. The goddesses took turns accompanying him on patrol or to specific threat responses, each bringing their unique perspective and abilities to complement his overwhelming strength.
The Hero Association had initially been bewildered by the sudden appearance of five extraordinary women in Saitama's life, but the effectiveness of these "exchange students" in combat situations quickly converted confusion to enthusiastic support. The executives even created provisional hero designations for them: Lunar Archer (Artemis), Charm Queen (Aphrodite), Sovereign (Europa), Solar Empress (Amaterasu), and Dream Mage (Proto Merlin).
"We don't need hero names," Artemis had protested when the designations were announced. "We are divine beings, not costumed mortals."
"It helps with public relations," Genos had explained patiently. "And provides a measure of anonymity. Your true identities might cause theological complications in the modern world."
It was after one such patrol that Saitama returned to the apartment to find an unexpected scene of domesticity. Europa and Amaterasu were in the kitchen preparing dinner, working together with the synchronized efficiency of long-time companions. Proto Merlin sat cross-legged on the living room floor, surrounded by open books and digital tablets, her silver-white hair tied back in a casual ponytail as she made notes in a journal. Artemis was cleaning her bow at the dining table, the weapon now taking a more modern compound form while retaining its divine essence.
Only Aphrodite was missing, though sounds from the direction of the bathroom suggested she was taking one of her infamously long showers—a habit that had already led to minor conflicts over hot water usage.
"Welcome back, Master," Europa greeted, looking up from a simmering pot. "We were not expecting you so early."
"The monster turned out to be just a really big dog," Saitama explained, dropping onto the sofa with a sigh. "Some kid had been feeding it growth hormone or something."
"No challenge worthy of your strength, then," Amaterasu observed sympathetically.
"Never is," Saitama shrugged.
Proto