Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

That was during the wintertime after Sullivan had returned from the tower —

“Opera, tell them to stop the carriage,”

The servant took a moment to process the order before promptly doing so.

It wasn’t unusual for demons to ride carriages during winter. In the netherworld, there would be instances where snow would be so harsh that it was impossible to fly. It was for convenience sake of course, but it was also due to the fact that demons hated the cold. Ice froze their wings making it difficult to fly and the sensation of snow against their back wasn’t really preferable.

The servant followed as his master got off the carriage, shoes crunching against the snow, Sullivan’s cane clicking along. Opera’s curious as to why they’ve strayed off the path and are walking towards the forest but over the years he’s worked for the demon, he’d learn not to question him. Sullivan’s the strongest he knew, a candidate for the next Demon King.

There were certain things only the highest of ranks could sense.

Opera’s ears twitched, eyes slightly widening when he started to notice —

A human.

“Sullivan-sama,” Opera called out, terrified as they walked into the unknown.

He knew better than to fear since he was with his master but then again this was a human. He wasn’t scared of getting eaten, mythical creatures were known to be weak but it still doesn’t change the fact that mythical creatures were mythical creatures. He’s never met a human before but he knew; he knew that they were headed towards one.

Myths say that humans taste as sweet as they smell. That their blood could heal the deadliest of injuries and illnesses and that although as fragile as they were, their tenderness could tame the deadliest of monsters and demons alike. Humans were a delicacy but that was a tradition lost hundreds and hundreds of years ago after they’ve gone extinct.

Opera’s current conclusion was based on his textbook knowledge about the creature — there was a sweet scent that lingered in the air, enough to make his mouth water due to his enhanced senses as a cat demon. There was a presence in a faraway distance, something he couldn’t make out due to the lack of mana which only proved it more.

Then came the sound—

 “Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!”

A child.

Opera’s legs sped up along with Sullivan’s and the servant found himself running deeper and deeper towards the woods, his master not bothering to stop him with how far ahead he’d gone.

No way. No way. No way.

 In the middle of one of the harshest winter in the Netherworld—

Opera huffed, coming to a halt in the middle of the forest where there was a small clearing, snow falling from the sky. His figure towered over the basket that contained the small human, its ears short and cropped, eyes brimming with tears, cheeks flushed and hands tucked against its body as it wailed from the cold. A moment later, Sullivan appeared behind the servant.

—they found a human child.

The trip back to the mansion was silent and Opera who was sitting across Sullivan had an odd expression on his face.

Demon folk was quite affectionate creatures when it came it their young. Even the three great heroes, the worst of all demons, were known for being caring to their subordinates and kin. Demons weren’t the type to abandon family and although there were orphanages, those children were usually from parents who passed away.

Perhaps that was the reason why Opera couldn’t understand this situation. The servant’s heart clenched as he watched small hands peek out of the poorly woven basket, Sullivan’s jacket placed over the child to hopefully provide him with more warmth.

Mythical creatures were fragile creatures.

The child whined when Sullivan poked his cheek, sleep disturbed by the demon.

Opera doesn’t understand.

This is Sullivan:

One of the Three Heroes, one-third of the most powerful and influential demons in society.

His every order is followed. Every command obeyed unquestionably. Every plan executed flawlessly.

It is common knowledge that when the previous Demon King, Derkila disappeared, he was the one affected the most due to his devotion, a subordinate who held a very close relationship with the other. Derkila was a monster. That is a fact. His servants respect him in varying degrees, but they all share incredible strength, Sullivan most of all.

His rank Teth is simply not for show and he prided himself as one of the most knowledgeable.

(But that was only until he met his grandson, a human, the one he’s been waiting for quite a while now.

Because demon or not, strong or weak, it was no secret that the man yearned to have a family.)

“Hmm… What should we name him, Opera?”

“Principal, you’re going to keep him?”

The servant watched as his master sat by the fireplace of his room, the child gently cradled in his arms. It’s good that the boy’s not fussy. Not even a peep when they took him out of the basket and carefully checked for horns or wings, not even a tail. Usually, demons had at least one of those qualities the moment they were born. This one had none.

That just another proof that he's human, isn't it?

“Well, we can’t give him away, can we? They’ll eat him up,”

“Principal...”

It wasn’t like he could simply go against the desires of his master. This particular desire, however, was quite hasty and risky. This wasn’t a hellhound that they just picked up on the side of the street. It was human. Opera kept emphasizing human over and over again because, in their world, that certain species did not exist. At least they thought did not exist but apparently they do since they just discovered their young.

“What if its parents come back to look for it…”

“I don’t think any parent would leave a newborn by themselves,” Sullivan stared at the small bundle in his arms, eyes unexpectedly warm. “And I didn’t sense another presence aside from his when we arrived. It’s more likely that he was abandoned,” the servant pressed his lips into a thin line, hands tightly clenched.

Abandoned.

This child…

“Tell me, Opera,” the demon continued as if to prove a point. “Do you think a human could survive by themselves?”

The servant remained silent for a moment before bowing, “I’ll go see if there are any things available for children in town, Sullivan-sama.”

And with that he softly shut the door close, both demons silently agreeing that the boy’s needs are more important than dinner today. It wasn’t like they could just leave him in this state, wrapped up in damp baby clothes from snow and a bundle of thin blue cloth.

It’s a cold night tonight.

Sullivan protectively tightened his hold around the child.

“Iruma, your name is Iruma,”

Which meant river in the Netherworld and oddly enough, similar to how the character human is written on Earth.

(In the years to come, in the far far future ahead, Iruma’s rise is marked by his encompassing kindness which most demons struggle with. Out of all the candidates for the Demon King, counting those from the beginning of time, it’s Iruma who gains a reputation for being the most compassionate, loving and tender-hearted of all.

In the future, he makes his grandfather Sullivan proud. There’s a reason for that.)

After Opera returned from a short trip to town, the servant clothed and bathed the child after previously cutting his nails. They found out that humans were soft, very, very, soft. Opera liked soft things but this kind of soft was scary because one wrong swipe and he might injure the child. He emerged from the bathroom returning with Iruma dressed in a blue cat onesie and shocking, not shockingly, Sullivan immediately took out his camera to take pictures.

“I-Iruma-kun, look this way!” Opera wondered what it would be like if the other high-ranked demons saw one of the three heroes crouching on the floor to take photos of a human child on the bed. For now, it seems like the child couldn’t do anything other than extend his arms and legs. He was still a baby who couldn’t sit up properly or lift his head.

“Ba?”

Sullivan faked a heart attack and the servant could see his future, a doting grandfather who spoiled his grandchild to pieces. In no way was the demon short on money, he actually had a ton because unlike other demons, he had no children to spend it on.  

“Is it even possible to adopt a human child, Principal?”

“Hmm… Do you even know who you’re talking to, Opera?” Sullivan waved a finger, knowing full well that something like this would be a piece of cake. Well, there would most likely be questions sent his way but that’s something not related to the adoption process itself. “An adoption paper is just a piece of paper,” and with his power, that’s easy to do. No need for a higher-up when you’re a higher-up.

“But what if they find out that Iruma-sama’s a human?” Won’t that affect your reputation? Won’t you be arrested and sent to jail? Can they even send you to jail?

Sullivan blinked before giving his usual smile, “Who said that others needed to find out?”

Oh. Ohhh.

That was during the wintertime after Sullivan had returned from the tower.

“You can’t be serious, Principal…”

In the middle of one of the harshest winter in the Netherworld —

“But I am though,”

— they found a human child.

Chapter Text

Opera stood still, as stiff as a rock to not drop the child while Sullivan tilted his head to the side, wondering why the human was all teary-eyed as if he was about to cry.

“W-Why is he crying, Principal?”

“I-Iruma-kun!”

Even Sullivan looked taken aback; he’s obviously flustered by what’s happening. He frowned in dismay, not really sure what to do. Over the past three hours, they’ve already tried everything they could. Opera’s highly concerned because of Iruma’s lack of teeth. The boy was probably hungry but they didn't know what to feed him. Newborn demon babies... well, their mothers nursed them and they had teeth so that wasn't a problem. Thing is, male demons were quite inadept in the looking after area. Nobles most especially. Also, they didn't have a female around here to ask milk from. Even if they did, they'd probably get told off for being indecent.

How could this be? How could he not have any teeth? Even newborn demons have—

Opera had to remind himself that this child was a human over and over again.

“Principal, can humans drink water?”

Because at this point that might be the only thing they’d be able to feed the child.

“I don’t know,” Sullivan replied, cheek resting against the dinner table as he dramatically cried. He had lived for a very long time so he considered himself prepared but this was tougher than he expected. Even Opera who was good at taking care of small creatures was in dismay. “We don’t really know what baby humans eat. I-I’m so sorry, Iruma-kun!” before he promptly joined the child in crying again.

"We need milk,"

"Where do we get milk?"

"I also do not know..."

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaah—"

Opera forced his eyes to close, ears hurting at all the wailing, “Principal, I have a suggestion.”

And in a moment, the higher-ranked demon paused, turning his full attention to the servant, “What is it, Opera?”

“Will you allow me to call Balam Sicirue? He is very knowledgeable about Imaginary Beings and he’s currently taking his master’s degree for Demonic History,"

He was also a teacher in Babyls who applied last semester.

“Hmm!? But I just said that no one needs to find out!”

Ahh… He was referring to their conversation earlier.

“But Principal…” the demon cat started, having already prepared to reason for this. “It would be difficult for us to raise Iruma-sama with the limited knowledge we have. Even if Sullivan-sama is one of the strongest and wisest demons, there are individuals who are experts on certain fields,” so keeping it a secret… well, they should keep it a secret.

It’s just that they’re kind of running into a wall right now.

“I shall take full responsibility if Balam Sicirue harms Iruma-sama in any sort of way,”

“Hmm… Very well, I leave it in your hands, Opera!”

“Well, then,” the servant handed the baby to his master, Sullivan slowly shifting his arms to hold the child. “I’ll call him right away.”

“Oi, Balam,”

“Y-Yes, Opera-senpai?”

Contrary to one might think; Opera was quite a bad demon during his high school days. He made the lower classmen carry his things and run errands, making full use of the ranking system. He has grown out of that phase nonetheless and now that’s he’s working as Sullivan’s servant, he tried to uphold a more calm and responsible demeanor.

(A trait that Iruma’s grown to admire. He always wanted to be cool like Opera; to be just as capable and hard-working.)

“Sullivan-sama wants to see you, come over,”

“But it’s one in the morning—“

“Come over,”

“H-Hai!”

Balam Sicirue arrived without anything and he kind of regrets it as of now. He realized his mistake the moment he stepped into the mansion and got a whiff of human scent. He’s tried to formulate that scent for years and years now; both as a hobby and as an occupation of his, a scientist. But failed to do so because he had no exposure to a human and just couldn’t imagine what one would smell like. Now that he does, it all kind of made sense.

The demon turned to his upperclassman, his entire body shaking, “D-Does this mean?”

Opera nodded, continuing to walk towards the dining room where he knew his master was.

Balam let out a demonic squeal, legs almost giving out from under him.

He should’ve brought a pen, a paper, a camera to take photos. Wait… This was a human. Taking photos of it would be bad. What if it leaks? What if because it leaked, demons would go after it and eat it? On second thought, it was good that he didn’t bring anything. That was safer. Yosh, let’s just take mental notes then.

“What are you doing?”

The larger demon flinched, “W-W-Will I really get to meet a human?”

Opera blinked before he narrowed his eyes at the younger, a bit pissed off. Yes, this was the normal response. People would be thrilled to meet a human. “It’s not just a human, it’s Iruma-sama,” he said, trying to make it across that this human had a name and value. “It’s the name given by the Principal. We found him abandoned in the forest earlier,” it has only been a few hours since then.

Balam stared before he lowered his eyes on the floor. Oh, so this human was abandoned by its kin. It kind of went against everything he’d studied. Why would an extinct species abandon its child? Perhaps history was wrong and humans didn’t find value in their children? Or is it a similar practice to Kakarugi where they leave their babies at a certain age to fend off by themselves?

“Will I get to meet Iruma-sama then?” he asked, trying to rephrase his statement earlier.

“Yes, you will. Just try to not make so much noise since we finally got him to sleep,”

“Ohh, okay,”

And as they reached the dining area, Balam’s eyes glistened over when he saw the small bundle that Sullivan was holding.

“Run, it’s Balam!”

“That guy… he believes that humans are real, creepy!”

It felt like a load had been taken off his shoulders when Sullivan offered Iruma for him to hold.

Humans, as babies, were so much smaller than demon babies it seemed. They looked so much softer and fragile.

Perhaps they were also more prone to illnesses— which he’d have to discuss with Opera and Sullivan at a later time.

Balam’s knew that his habit of wearing gloves would come through.

Because of his bloodline, his nails were sharper than most demons, perhaps on par with Opera who was a cat demon himself. He carefully surveyed Iruma, heart pounding in his chest.  His upperclassman was right; the baby did not have any teeth. Odd because most records show that humans do have teeth, although not as sharp as demons or creatures.

Hmm… Maybe they’d have to consider the growth rate of this species? Maybe it was similar to how demon babies would only be born with small horns at first which gradually grew into bigger ones as they age. It was an acceptable hypothesis or maybe Iruma was just strange and he’d grow up with no teeth.

“Balam-kun,” came the worried call from Lord Sullivan. “Is… Is my grandson going to be alright?”

“Grandson?” Opera sent Balam a look that basically told him to leave it as it is.

The larger demon shrugged his shoulders before he replied, “I’ve studied Humanology for many years. In the Netherworld, we only have records on adult humans so I don’t know how to assess this situation, Sullivan-sama.” Sullivan and Opera stilled on their places, shocked at the news. If a professional historian was saying that then… then…

“C-Can humans starve to death?”

“Of course, Opera-senpai. They are more prone to it than us demons,”

A gasp was heard before the baby in Balam’s arms whined, not liking the noise. “Humans are the most fragile out of all the mythical creatures. They can get sick when exposed to too much heat or cold. They can also get sick from food and complications in their body. Injuries most especially…” Iruma’s guardians’ body shook at the information they were receiving. They knew that humans were fragile but it seems like their knowledge was indeed just surface level.

Honestly, Sullivan was kind of glad that he allowed Opera to call his friend.

“Ah! Balam-kun, Balam-kun!” the Principal approached with a worried expression on his face. “What should we feed Iruma-kun then? It is alright for him to go without eating for that long?” they’ve found the boy approximately seven hours earlier. They’ve bathed him and tried to warm him up as much as they could but the food was another issue.

The researcher remained silent for a moment, quietly thinking before saying, “Have you tried feeding him milk, Sullivan-sama?”

Opera and Balam made a trip to the fields that night and returned with a pair of live Mee-maas a few hours later.

(In the future they’d laugh at themselves for how idiotic this was.)

“There you go Iruma-sama. Have a great meal,”

The placed the bowl of milk in front of the child, waiting for him to partake in it. Iruma who couldn’t really move his body yet just stared at the side of the bowl before whining in discomfort after being placed on the hard surface of the dinner table.

Opera clicked his tongue at Balam, obviously irritated.

“You said that this was going to work,”

“H-Hypothetically! Since human babies do not have any teeth, perhaps like mammals they nurture on their—“

“Ahh, look, he’s drinking it!” Sullivan cooed, already having the child in his arms, slowly spoon-feeding the boy. “You’re so cute, Iruma-kun,” he said, pleased that they finally got the child to eat. Balam sighed out of relief before Opera offered to feed the child in his master’s stead in which Sullivan openly refused to.

“Opera-senpai, you know those bottles they use to feed hell hounds and hellcats in the zoo?” Those creatures weren’t really similar to the human baby but yes, Opera does know what those are. “It’d be easier if you used one. At this rate, using a spoon would take forever,” the servant hummed in reply, taking into consideration what the younger demon just said.

“Balam,”

“Yes?”

“Thank you for helping us out today,” Opera slightly bowing his head. If it wasn’t for the other, they would’ve been stuck trying to figure out what human babies ate and Iruma would be starving for quite a while. Balam nodded in reply, not really finding it bothersome. He kind of liked the whole experience actually. He finally got to meet the human he was interested in and studying after all this time. He was the one who gained a lot of things from this whole experience, or so he thought.

“You’re welcome, Opera-senpai,”

And as he left, Sullivan promptly made him swear to secrecy.

Chapter Text

Opera, as a servant, had a routine that he needed to follow. Now that Iruma has officially been adopted by the Principal and has become his young master by proxy, that routine had changed quite a bit. It was a good change nonetheless, one which the demon liked to do and welcomed.

First things first, after he woke up in the morning, he had to wash up and dress up, fix his bed before immediately heading towards Iruma-sama’s room to check if he’s already awake. The baby would usually be up by six in the morning and when Opera arrives in his newly built nursery, he’d happily extend his arms to be picked up by the demon.

Opera slightly bent to grab the child from his crib, carefully nesting him in his arms before staying with him for a while. It’s more of a hobby than a chore, something which the demon looked forward to doing every day. Waking up each morning has never been fun and as he watched Iruma-sama nurse from his bottle, he’s not even shocked to hear the door softly creak, Sullivan already up at six-thirty.

Usually, the Principal would wake up around seven-thirty because that’s the time breakfast was usually served.

“Iruma-kun!” the old demon coos, softly walking down the posh carpeted floor to greet his grandson.

“You woke up quite early today, nee? Iruma-kun!”

Sullivan has been quite excited to have a grandson, so much that he took care of all the needed paperwork in a day. He and Opera renovated one of the spare rooms in the mansion, buying all the things a baby would need and filling it up with dozens and dozens of toys. The boy’s shelves consisted of many books, in courtesy of Balam, snow globes, and expensive-looking music boxes. It was safe to say that Sullivan liked to spoil his grandchild, much more than normal that is.

“It’s me, grandpa! Grandpa!” as if to make the child repeat his words and call him by the said title.

Iruma who was still drinking from his bottle chuckled wholeheartedly, eyes smiling at Sullivan, hands opening and closing. This is it. This was the heartwarming feeling they were pleased to experience every single day. Sullivan happily poked the child’s cheek, Opera’s lips pressed into a thin line as his ears curled up in bliss. Iruma leaned against the servant’s chest, whining as he finished drinking before promptly dozing off.

“My turn, Opera-kun! You still have a lot of things to do, right?”

“I still have a bit of time to do my duties, Sullivan-sama,”

“But… My turn…”

Sullivan had planned to be the one to see Iruma first but the servant woke up way too early for his liking. It’s almost a competition, really. Opera nodded, handing the child over before he bowed his head and told his master that he’d go prepare breakfast, immediately.

It’s eight-thirty when Sullivan finally leaves to go to work.

Usually, Opera would go with him but with Iruma being a baby and a human on top of that, he had to stay at home and look after him. The Principal held unto the door with tears in his eyes, declaring that he’d miss his grandchild and that he’d love him no matter what. It’s an exaggerated gesture, really.

 Eventually, Iruma who was being held by the servant is triggered by his grandfather’s crying.

Opera sighed. Great. Here we go again.

“Iruma-kun! I’ll… I’ll return with gifts later, okay? Play with grandpa when he gets back!”

“Principal, you’re going to be late…”

“I-Iruma-kun!”

“Principal…”

“Iruma-kun! Grandpa…Grandpa—”

Sulivan is approximately twenty minutes late upon arriving at Babyls that day.

Opera is doing his dream job.

“There you go, Iruma-sama,” he gently closed up the baby’s onesie after giving him a bath. There’s a cute babble that followed, his finger wrapped around his young master’s small hand. Soft, really, really, soft. “Which book shall we read today?” he asked, sitting down on the rocking chair with the child in his arms.

The human babbled in reply and the servant showed a rare smile.

It’s fun looking after Iruma-sama.

There’s a strange phenomenon occurring in Babyls, or so Naberius Kalego noticed.

It’s strange because it revolved around a certain pair, namely his childhood friend: Balam Sicirue and the school Principal, Lord Sullivan.

A few weeks ago, those two barely talked to each other aside from business matters and although the teachers’ closeness to their boss varied to certain degrees, this was a bit strange. Both him and Balam, although alumni to Babyls were barely starting out as teachers so they couldn’t really converse in that sort of personal manner.

Kalego stared at the pair who was tucked into the corner of the gymnasium, serious faces and dark auras surrounding them as they panned through a black book. In the background you could hear Drarry-sensei talk about the upcoming new semester for students, explaining the school calendar.

Balam said something, something Kalego couldn’t make out but the principal’s nodding with a glint in his eye.

What are they planning?

Is this… Is this bad?

“Balam-kun…” Sullivan started to speak with a very serious expression on his face, tone to match. “Recently, Iruma-kun has been very cute.”

“Hmm… He’s almost three months old, right, Principal?” they estimated that the child was a month old when they found him. Since then a bit of time had already passed. “Usually, babies would start sitting up by themselves a few days after they’re born,” then again, he was basing this on demonkind. “It seems like humans have a slower growth rate,” no teeth yet, can’t sit up, only capable of moving his arms and legs and squirming. Plus, they eat and sleep a ton.

It’s cute, very cute.

“He bit me the other day,” more of a nibble but that did happen.

Balam gasped, knowing that babies, in the Netherworld at least, were known to be worse than wild creatures, most of them due to their sharp teeth, hurting and injuring their guardians due to the constant habit of biting. Demon folk children were also known to be menaces with their constant crying. He wondered what it was like for the Principal.

“It was very cute,” came the warm heartfelt reply. “Iruma-kun’s gummy smile.”

“Ahh, I’m so happy that Iruma-kun’s a calm child,”

When asked to describe Iruma, cute would be the word that they’d often use.

Then they started to talk about the photobook that Sullivan had compiled over the past two months— Iruma-kun drinking milk, Iruma-kun in different outfits, Iruma-kun with his gummy smile, Iruma-kun taking a bath, Iruma-kun with Opera and Iruma-kun… there are three more photobooks to be exact. He was still sorting those out so he just brought this one for now.

Balam shivered on his place as he skimmed through the pages, restraining himself from getting too excited about the baby human.

“C-Can I please come over sometime?”

Iruma doesn’t cry a lot.

He only does so when he’s hungry or he’s in need of a nappy change, Opera rushing to his side no matter what time it was during the night. Half of those times Sullivan would also join the two, insistent to not miss any event and wanting to see his grandson’s growth with his own two eyes. Children, demon fork or humankind, grew fast after all.

(And in the future, although a human’s life span is shorter than a demon’s, Iruma manages to make the most changes in the Netherworld for good. He leaves many valuable lessons and memories, one which the future generation of demons would be thankful for. )

“Would you like to play, Iruma-kun?” Sullivan asked with an overly high voice, pretending to be the teddy bear that he was holding. Iruma could sit up by himself now but he still couldn’t crawl, the babbles and laughter multiplied. “Iruma-kun’s a big boy now,” he smiled, noticing how the child constantly needed new clothes due to his growth.

“Ba! Abababa—“ Iruma held out his hands for the toy and Sullivan folds, handing it over to the child who lies down on the carpet to hug it out.

At five months old, Iruma had been quite a handful. He still wasn’t a fussy child but his eyes would always tear up whenever someone left. Opera had been quite strict, insisting that the boy would grow to be very clingy and spoiled if the Principal always gave him what he wanted. Sullivan understood the point and he tried to lessen his fussing over Iruma, immediately leaving the mansion and not looking back, only happily indulging in the softness and playing with the boy the moment he got back from work.

He’s still spoiling him though. A lot.

“Can you say grandpa now, Iruma-kun?”

“Babababa—“

“No, no, no— grandpa. Grand—pa,”

“Baba,”

“Good job, Iruma-kun!” it wasn’t quite close but it’s acceptable nonetheless.

Iruma tilted his head to the side, making grabby hands towards his grandfather.

Soft hands, soft blue hair, clear eyes, pale skin, and rosy cheeks— it was obvious that the boy was being taken well care of. Every night before they went to bed Sullivan made sure to read a book or two to his grandson and as he leaves he turns the lights off, music boxes lulling Iruma to sleep.

“You can’t take Iruma-sama to Babyls, Sullivan-sama,”

“But why!? They’ll never find out, Opera!”

For a man of his caliber, Sullivan was quite blinded at times due to his affection for Iruma. Opera sighed, wondering where he should begin explaining. Bringing Iruma to school would basically be telling everyone that his grandson was of human origin and that wouldn’t sit well with a lot of people. Also, Balam was already working on that perfume to hide Iruma’s scent so it’ll only be a matter of time.

“Do you want Iruma-sama to get eaten, Principal?”

“I’ll take precautionary measures when I take him with me to Babyls,”

Ah. He means magic. Well, Sullivan was a demon with a rank high enough to disguise someone’s identity. Opera was still not in favor of the idea though. It’s better to be safe than sorry because magic can only last so long. Even Balam who had just set foot in the mansion immediately sensed that there was a human inside. In cases like these, magical items were more efficient since they lasted for longer periods of time only ran by mana.

“Babi?”

Opera and Sullivan froze, turning to face Iruma who was sitting on his crib.

“Babiru!”

Does that count as a first word?

They don’t count it as an actual word because it’ll upset Sullivan.

“Babibabi—“

Balam looked down at the child who he was holding before letting him nurse on the bottle. Iruma happily whined, hands opening and closing as he drank milk. The baby was dressed in a Dinosaur onesie, another mythical creature in the Netherworld. It was kind of ironic because a mythical creature was wearing a mythical creature and— anyway, human babies smelt really good. Especially since Opera took his time to make sure that Iruma’s body was covered in powder and lotion.

“His first word was Babyls, huh…”

As expected of a human.

Out of all the mythical creatures, they are said to be the most intelligent. Humans were rational animals who could easily make decisions for themselves. Whatever they lacked physically, they made up with their amazing thought process. Perhaps if they taught Iruma well then he would turn out to be a very intelligent being. It was written on records that the human brain was much bigger than a demon’s after all.

“He was babbling,” because as Iruma-sama’s caretaker, he refuses to accept that the baby’s first word is Babyls. It simply held no meaning. “It was a mistake right, Iruma-sama?”

“Babi!”

“He agrees,”

Balam doesn’t seem to be bothered that much. What he’s concerned about is a different issue, “Did Sullivan-sama want to take Iruma-sama with him to work?” Remembering why the two fought. It wasn’t a serious fight but it was still a bit important nonetheless. Sullivan did have a point; they couldn’t just let Iruma stay in the mansion forever.

“I wanna show them how cute my grandson is!”

“Or so he said,”

Balam sighed, well… Of course, it did add up to that.

“I finished the formula for the perfume to mask his scent so…” something he’d started to work on four months ago. If Iruma was going to live in the demon world, he needed to fit in. First thing’s first, they needed to get rid of that human scent of his.

“Let’s go try it out,”

Chapter Text

Opera’s heart dropped when he saw Iruma dangling from the edge of his crib the moment he entered the room. The boy was obviously trying to get out, half of his body flailing before his weak arms let go of his hold— it wasn’t very high but it was definitely a dangerous height for a child. The servant unconsciously dropped the bottle he was holding, catching Iruma just as his back was about to hit the ground, milk spilling on the carpet.

“Waaaaaaaaaaah!”

The human child’s face flushed, large crocodile tears spilling down his chubby cheeks.

The cat demon sat down the floor, trying to calm his heart before he snapped out of his daze and hugged the six-month-old, trying to soothe him first. He previously left the room since Iruma was obviously hungry and he needed to fetch him his bottle. He brought a tray since he had a few more things to bring like the formula that Balam made for the child. Apparently, human children needed things more than just milk to make their bodies stronger. Unless they wanted Iruma to get sick, they needed to give him medicine it seemed.

“Waahh…Ghnnn…Hic,”

Opera wasn’t really sure what to make do with this situation. He was glad that he arrived on time but considering the instance that he did not, he doesn’t even want to think about it. He reminded himself to inform Lord Sullivan later, worried that such incidents would occur again. Opera gently patted the boy’s back, used to the small hands that were grabbing his shirt.

“Iruma-sama, I would’ve preferred if you didn’t learn how to stand up by yourself,”

A few weeks ago, the baby had started to crawl. It was cute and all since every time they’d check on him in the morning he’d be sitting up by himself and eager to get out. They’d let him crawl on the carpet and play but standing up was a different matter as observed earlier. This certain motor skill certainly did not bode well with the servant. It made him worried and nervous.

They also found Iruma standing up a few instances before. He’d lean against the shelves or the side of the rocking chair— both very dangerous places. Currently, Opera’s convinced that the crib is the biggest threat of all. Perhaps they’d have to make a barricade on top but then again it’ll make it look like a coop and Iruma-sama’s not a creature of some sort to be trapped.

“Hic…ghnn…” Opera looked down at the child on his lap, using the bib to wipe Iruma’s tears away.

“I’ll have to clean the carpet later,” after he dropped the tray and the milk spilled on the floor. At least the formula bottle’s still intact. Demon babies also took those, like adult supplements but designed for children. Balam said that they needed to take precautionary measures since Iruma was much more fragile than normal babies. He was a human after all.

“Do you have anything to say, Iruma-sama?”

He softly pinched the child’s chubby cheek, holding it out and immediately letting go when he saw blue eyes glisten over with tears. Iruma still couldn’t speak and it was mostly babble so he knew that it wasn’t possible yet. Babiru was just a coincidence because the boy’s been babbling bababa ever since he could anyway.

Opera sighed before ruffling his young master’s hair, pressing a kiss on top of his head.

“Iruma-kun climbed out of his crib by himself? Good job, Iruma-kun!”

The servant was busy cleaning up the milk that has been spilled earlier and Sullivan was sitting on the chair, feeding the child with his bottle. Iruma’s eyes were slightly rimmed red, soft cheeks full of milk as he happily nursed. The Principal arrived a few moments after the boy had finished crying and immediately demanded to be informed about what happened. Before that, Opera had to fetch a new bottle nonetheless.

“He almost fell down, Principal,”

“Hmm?”

“I managed to catch him on time,” Opera explained, rubbing the carpet with soap before wringing it out into the bucket. It would’ve been easier if someone designed magic for cleaning up stains. “He was dangling on the edge. His back was about to hit the ground,” and Sullivan turned his eyes to the crib, noticing that the rail was at least a meter off the ground.

In the background you could see Opera heading into the extended bathroom in Iruma’s room to dispose of the bucket, the old demon narrowing his eyes at the baby. It looked like the boy wasn’t injured but still…

“Mou, Iruma-kun! How could you do such a dangerous thing?”

“Baba…”

“That’s right! That’s wrong!” Sullivan tightly hugged the child, cheeks rubbing against each other. “Don’t make us worry, alright?” and when Opera returned to the room, the carpet was already as good as new, although still a little bit wet. The Principal let Iruma return to drinking his milk before he turned his attention to the servant who was already standing near the crib.

“I’ll make sure to lower it so that he can’t reach, Principal,”

“Nn. Thank you, Opera,”

Sullivan gulped, looking down at his work with a torn expression on his face.

Iruma who was sitting on the bathroom counter dressed in his pajamas stared at his grandfather before he smiled, fringe crooked to the left. His grandfather melted, in a daze for a few seconds before he remembered what he was doing, letting go of the scissors he was holding. Lord Sullivan, one of the strongest demons in the Netherworld was faced with a new challenge. One he has never expected to face before.

“Baba?” Iruma asked, worried about his grandfather. Babies were sensitive to feelings like that.

“Alright, I will leave the task of cutting Iruma-sama’s hair to you, Principal,”

At six months old, young Iruma had a lot of hair for a baby. It might due to that super expensive soap that they bought for him or it was in the human’s genes— either way it did not matter. Both Opera and Sullivan agreed that it was time for the boy to get a haircut. It was cute when it was tied back but Iruma found it bothersome and he simply couldn’t sleep well. Sullivan carefully combed through the short, angled bangs of his grandson, convinced that it still looked cute since Iruma kept sending him gummy smiles.

“Bababababa—“

“I’m sorry, Iruma-kun. Grandpa made a mistake,”

“What kind of mistake was it, Principal?” the old demon gasped when Opera appeared behind him. The servant blinked at his master’s odd expression before his eyes landed on Iruma, his entire body becoming stiff—in anger, in shock, in disappointment; it was one of those three. “You said that you were going to do it properly, Sullivan-sama,” he reminded the other, aware of what they agreed to earlier.

Opera might not seem like it but he deeply cared about how Iruma looked. Frequently, he’d dress him up in cute onesies and attires, make sure that his nails are clipped, hands soft and skin supple as ever. It wasn’t because he valued the human’s visual appearance but because he genuinely cared for the child. He had spent so much time combing that hair, making sure that it was nourished and silky and this demon… Sullivan-sama…

 “Principal…”

“Y-Yes? What is it, Opera-kun?”

“We should go to the hairdresser to get this fixed,” since even the servant who was confident with his haircutting skills certainly couldn’t fix this. Opera cut his own hair but it wasn’t that difficult since it was just his fringe which he usually trimmed. “This kind of hairstyle doesn’t suit Iruma-sama,” it’s crooked and it’s forming an odd angle.

“Does it look that bad?”

Opera stared down at the child who smiled and extended his arms, asking to be picked up.

Well… It’s kind of cute but still…

“Yes, we need to get this fixed immediately,”

“This is the perfume that Balam made,”

“Ohh, the one that will hide Iruma-kun’s scent,”

“With this, we can take Iruma-sama outside,” Opera shook the bottle, taking off the cap before pointing it towards the baby who sitting down the bathroom counter.

Sullivan extended a hand to cover his grandson’s eyes before the servant pressed the spray.

The Demon Duke, Lord Sullivan having a grandson was not kept a secret. It was barely kept a secret with how the Principal went around Babyls and bragged about his new grandchild. Iruma being a human however was kept confidential and shockingly, no one really questioned his short ears when Sullivan flaunted the photos. It’s already been a few weeks since that was announced though and for the first time, the Great Hero Sullivan’s grandson was finally appearing in public.

Opera and Sullivan walked down the main street trying to find the salon they made a reservation for yesterday. Iruma who was in his grandfather’s arms shyly hid in his embrace, cutely dressed with noble clothes, a red beanie to hide his fringe.

“Sullivan-sama, Opera-sama,” someone greeted as they entered the door.

It was a salon for kids, bright and colorful with high chairs and tables for the children to color paper. It was a bit more expensive than normal hairdressing salons because, in the Netherworld, children were much more handful compared to adults when it came to haircuts. There were a few children present, their parents trying to calm them down. In the corner of the room someone’s crying and there’s a baby wailing in the background.

“Mama! No! Mama! Scissors are scary, uwaaaaaaaaa!”

“Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! No, no, no, no, no—hic, ahhhhhhhhhhh—“

Once again, Opera was reminded of how lucky they were to have such a calm, meek child.

“Uhh… Mrs. Terzeth, can you please ask your child to come down the ceiling?”

Cribs? Hah. Demon folk have wings and they fly around the room, how about that?

Iruma was sat down a high chair in front of the mirror, the lady behind him a bit nervous. How could she not be when this was Lord Sullivan’s grandson? And even Opera’s watching very, very closely; not allowing a mistake. Once the red beanie’s off, Iruma started to whine but that’s only until he saw his grandfather sitting on the chair beside his.

“T-This is…”

“I made a mistake. I can be fixed, right?”

“Of course, Sullivan-sama!” the lady gulped before she grabbed the spray bottle and wet the child’s hair, a few of the parents watching to see what the grandson of one of the three heroes was like. Iruma let out a nervous whine but didn’t really complain.

Snip. Snip.

Click. Snap.

It’s almost an anomaly, really. Everyone’s silent as they watched Iruma patiently sit down and let the lady cut his hair. Opera silently smiled, pleased at what was happening.

Snip.

“My, my, he’s so well behaved isn’t he?” the only demon brave enough to approach Sullivan while he’s taking photos of his grandson who was getting a haircut, the Valac Matriarch. “He’s so cute as well,” she cooed, her daughter flapping her wings as she held her in her arms.

There was a glint in Sullivan’s eyes, “Yes, yes. Iruma-kun has always been a calm child. Nee, Opera?” Standing behind the Principal, the cat demon nodded.

“Compared to that, my daughter is…” she started off, trying to stop her daughter from eating her hair. “That’s not good for you, Clara. Try to sit still, okay?” which doesn’t exactly work because the child’s fussing and flailing her arms everywhere, wanting to get away and fly. She doesn’t let her go nonetheless and simply laughs when Clara nibbles on her hair again.

Ah, yes, demon children. That’s usually how they acted.

“Iruma-kun was it?”

Iruma sniffled when Clara grabbed his newly cut hair, tugging at it quite harshly. It caught Sullivan’s attention but Opera stopped the demon, knowing that it was important for the boy to socialize rather than get protected all the time. Also, this was Iruma’s first encounter with a child his age so he was curious as to how it would go. Clara’s mother was smiling happily while the children played with others.

“’Ruma—paw!”

Iruma tilted his head to the side, wondering why the girl was extending her hand like that. In the Netherworld, at six months old, most babies could speak at least a hundred words.

“Babi…”

Snap.

A confused Iruma-kun at the hairdressers with his very first friend, the peculiar daughter of the Valac family, Clara-chan — that would be Sullivan’s caption on the back. It’s an understatement because both children were indeed quite peculiar in a way. As calm as Iruma was as a child, Clara was just as chaotic.

It didn’t take long before the boy placed his hand on top of the Valac daughter’s palm.

“A hell hound!?”

(And when they meet a few years later in the future, Iruma and Clara wouldn’t be able to remember each other.

It’s only after quite some time when they’re scrolling through the human’s photobook and they see themselves in children form, together at the hairdressers during one particular spring day, Sullivan’s handwriting on the back.)

“Hgnnn…”

Opera blinked, halting on his feet when he noticed Iruma squirming in his hold.

“What’s wrong, Opera?” Sullivan asked, staring at the servant before he bent down to look at his grandson. “What’s wrong Iruma-kun?” the child was whining and snuggling for warmth, cheeks much more flushed than usual.

“Sullivan-sama…”

“Hmm?”

“Is it possible for humans to feel this warm?”

The principal remained silent for a while before he took his jacket off and told the servant to wrap it around the child.

Chapter Text

Demon folk rarely caught any complications or illnesses. By rarely, it meant that it only happened once or twice during their lifetime and those certain instances are not life-threatening in any shape or form. Injuries were a more serious matter but that would only occur if one participated in a fight which was also seldom because contrary to one might think, the Netherworld had lawmakers. It wasn’t that chaotic of a place if you excluded the borders among neighboring kingdoms.

Demons lived up to hundreds of years due to their long life span. They weren’t fragile creatures which was why when a baby— a human on top of that, Iruma, got sick, Opera and Sullivan were immediately highly concerned. The baby was being held by his grandfather, carefully tucked in his arms, rocking him back and forth to try to ease his crying.

The fussing happened when they got back to the mansion. Iruma’s face was red, his temperature slightly higher than before. They’ve tried feeding him milk and lulling him to sleep but none of those worked and they simply couldn’t figure out what was wrong. Big crocodile tears streamed down the boy’s cheeks, blue eyes visibly upset and distressed. Sullivan hoped that the boy didn’t catch an illness of some sort.

Iruma catching an illness now would be too dangerous and risky. One, they barely had information on humans, more or less babies. Second, they would not know how to treat it. Demons and humans had different biological structures so using the medicine they had would be like subjecting the child to unknown substances. Magic would not work as well because they won’t even know what the illness is.

 “Will he be okay, Principal?”

Sullivan stared down at the baby who was snuggled against his chest, “Of course he will be, Opera.”

Iruma whined, starting to cry again, “Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaah—hic… ghhn..”

The older demon obviously looked troubled. The last time he has been to the human world was approximately eight hundred years ago and that was with the previous Demon King, Delkira. Unfortunately, during his time there he had no exposure to babies whatsoever. The best course of action in this event would be to call Balam who was the most knowledgeable about humans. It also seemed like the servant had the same idea in mind.

“Should I call Balam, Principal?”

Since it has almost been three hours and Iruma still hasn’t calmed down yet. Waiting it out was just making them more anxious. Better safe than sorry, as they say.

“I’ll leave it to you, Opera,”

“Gladly,”

He didn’t need to be told twice.

“He’s teething,”

Opera blinked, brain processing what his colleague had said, “Teething…”

It was something that demon folk children experienced while growing up. Balam concluded that Iruma was going through the same process since when he examined him earlier, there were small pieces of teeth peeking through his gums. The boy had finally calmed down after they’ve given him a bath and that chewing ring they bought a few minutes ago, courtesy of Opera. He also had a small cooling patch plastered on his forehead.

“Teething! Iruma-kun finally has teeth!” Sullivan celebrated in the background, dancing around with the baby in his arms, the boy giggling and laughing along with him. “Mou! You had us all worried! We thought you were sick! I was ready to go to the human world. Geez, Iruma-kun!” Balam gulped because if it was Lord Sullivan then… well, with his grandchild complex and strong powers he might just do it for real. And he might just go with him… for research purposes of course.

The servant sighed out of relief, “That… completely flew off my head.”

He should have realized since he was the one in charge of looking after Iruma every single day. He also didn’t really consider the thought since he assumed that it did not apply to humans. In demon terms, teething meant chaos, screaming, endless torture, as well as many nights spent without much sleep. The symptoms were very hard to identify on Iruma as well.

“Do we not have to worry about his temperature then?” since Balam said that humans were quite sensitive to the heat and cold. Opera wondered if it was because they brought the boy in town with them earlier.

“Is it normal Balam-kun?”

“Uhh…”

“Are there any other complications?”

“Err…“

“Are you sure about your diagnosis?”

“Opera-sen—“

“Hey, check again. You might have missed something. Are you sure he’s not sick?” the larger demon flinched; sweat dripping down his face when he saw the look on the servant’s face. He wasn’t subjected to Opera’s playful tricks back in Babyls unlike Kalego and they had a good relationship but at times like these, he was reminded of his upperclassman’s past image— intelligent, strong, one of the highly feared demons in Babyls, the right-hand man of the Principal and the Student Council President for three years.

Yep, scary. Opera is scary.

“Babibabi—“ Iruma extended his arms to the servant, peeking from Sullivan’s shoulder.

The cat demon softened and reached out for the child while Balam sighed out of relief.

Nice save, Iruma-kun!

“I have no idea, Opera-senpai,” the larger demon admitted. Perhaps it was a side-effect of teething? Perhaps it was an entirely different matter? He really didn’t know. “But let’s keep an eye on it,” Iruma’s temperature returned to normal after they gave him a bath, the cooling patch as a precautionary measure so it might not be as serious as they think it is.

Iruma’s giggle resounded throughout the room.

There weren’t a lot of things a human baby could do.

At six months old, all Iruma could do was sleep, eat, sit up by himself, crawl, and stand for a few seconds. It was much less than your average demon baby who could fly but Opera found himself growing busier in each day that passed.

“Iruma-sama, say ahhhh,”

“Ahhhhhh,”

Nom. Nom. Nom.

Humans were fragile and Iruma most especially was very sensitive to what others felt. So much that Sullivan was convinced the boy had a sixth sense of some sort. 

After showing signs of teeth, they concluded that it would be best to move on to more varieties of food. The boy seemed to like it as well and Opera was pleased with how Iruma would always finish his bowl and not complain about whatever he was fed. Unlike other children, Iruma wasn’t a picky eater. He also didn’t show any negative reaction to Netherworld food, an issue that Balam was concerned about.

“Baba, Baba—“ Iruma whined, making grabby hands at Opera who used a bib to wipe the boy’s lips clean. It wasn’t really that effective nonetheless since it got all over the child’s clothes. Iruma was a messy eater. Understandable since he was still a baby anyway.

“You finished it all Iruma-sama. No more, see?”

As if to prove a point, Opera showed the child the empty bowl. Iruma’s eyes glistened over with tears, pouting a bit before simply settling into a whine, snuggling close when Opera took him off his high chair. The servant wasn’t that worried since he had planned on giving him snacks later anyway. Iruma liked eating fruit which was a plus to the servant, those were quite easy to prepare.

“Now, look at you, you’ve gotten quite messy. Let’s give you a bath,”

Iruma doesn’t cause a lot of trouble.

On the contrary, Opera and his grandfather would actually prefer it if he caused them some trouble.

They’re worried that when the boy grows up he’d be too soft-hearted and too spoiled, undesirable traits for a demon, an easy target to prey on. Not that they’d not teach him how to fight or how to defend himself. That was the last thing they wanted and Opera would be more than happy to volunteer himself as Iruma’s tutor for physical arts in the future.

Sullivan as well, he was determined to teach his grandson magic, pass on a spell or two. Balam had also previously mentioned that he’d help with the boy’s education since noble children don’t usually go to school until the age of fourteen. With many high ranking demons looking after the boy, he was bound to not turn weak.

(And he’d be one of the very best magi in the Netherworld; taming various beasts and controlling space like his grandfather. Mana doesn’t apply on Iruma and with various rings in his hand, he rules over all the land as the strongest, the wisest, his aspect perfect— the Overlord, the King of Kings.)

The only trouble he usually caused is that he tugs on Opera’s hair way too frequently and that he always unraveled with his grandfather’s cravat whenever he was held.

It was a cute gesture so no one really corrected him

“Iruma-sama, you can do it. Please let go of Totto-san,”

Opera was sitting about two meters away from Iruma who was using a big stuffed animal to hold himself up, small legs shaking as he stood up. Plopping back down and crawling would have been easier but with the cat demon’s constant cheering, the boy felt the need to walk. Problem was, how. He’s never attempted to walk before.

The child let out a whine; one hand trying to extend to the servant whose eyes glistened in excitement.

“Ghnnn… Waaaaaaa—“

Iruma whined, wanting Opera to go to him and pick him up, put him on his lap while he was at it. The demon wanted the child to attempt nonetheless. The nursery floor was covered in one of the fluffiest and expensive carpets in the demon world so the boy falling down probably wouldn’t hurt that much. It was a precautionary measure after last time’s crib falling incident.

“Just a few steps Iruma-sama,” Opera had a hopeful expression on his face and Iruma propped himself upright, turning his body towards the servant’s direction. “You can do it. I won’t let you fall, okay? Not scary at all.”

Big blue eyes brimmed with tears, wobbly legs heading towards the other, “Opi!“

Opera’s extended hands froze, not realizing that Iruma had already taken a few steps forward, grabbing unto his arms for stability.

“Iruma-sama, its Opera,”

“Opi!”

“Opera,”

“Opi—ba!”

“Say it with me young master, O-pe-ra,”

“Obi—ba!“

The servant’s eyes glistened over as he put the boy to sleep.

There was a swell in his chest, satisfaction, bliss, the warmth of feeling proud.

(And as the boy grows that feeling will grow bigger and bigger as well, Opera smiling as he lowered his feet and kneeled with the crowd,

ears so upright they slightly curled at the tips, the new Demon King crowned.)

“Sweet dreams, Iruma-sama,”

Chapter Text

“Opi! Opi—“

“Just a moment Iruma-sama,”

The baby whined after being left on his high chair, Sullivan looking like he was in the same childish state. The old demon was resting his head on the dinner table, obviously depressed and sulking. He just found out that Iruma had recently started to say the servant’s name. On the other hand, where were his privileges as a grandfather!? Opera was in a good mood, patiently placing the food down from the tray he was holding.

“Unfair… It’s so unfair,” Sullivan complained, not accepting the fact that Opera's name was said before his.

A choked sob, it really wasn’t that serious.

The cat demon took his seat beside Iruma, carefully putting on the baby’s bib.

During the last few months, Sullivan had to do all the work by himself since Opera had to stay at home to look after the boy (not that there were a lot in the first place, also, the teachers are tired). He usually tried his best to finish everything at a faster pace so that he could come back and play with his grandson. Also, he frequently came home bearing gifts. He was that fond of him. At this point, gummy smiles weren’t enough. Iruma being cute wasn’t enough. He needed reciprocation, a sign, he needed—

“Iruma-kun~”

Where’d that baby rattle come from!?

Izuku who was in the middle of eating blinked at his grandfather.

“It’s grandpa. Say grand-pa,”

Opera’s face was devoid of emotion, too used to these kinds of things happening on a daily basis. He really couldn’t understand how the public eye viewed Lord Sullivan as some sort of menacing demonic monster—the wonders of PR that is. It was ironic to see one of the strongest bend their knees and kneel on the floor so that they’re on the same eye level as a child, speaking an enormous amount of fluent baby talk. If the neighboring rival countries saw this, they’d be horrified.

(And in the future it’d actually be worse. Sullivan would be printing out photos to distribute Iruma’s cuteness throughout the Netherworld and he’d frequently appear on television to boast about his grandson’s achievements.)

“Baba!”

“No, no, no—grandpa!”

“Hic—baba!”

Iruma hiccupped, not used to his grandfather having such a serious expression on his face. His voice wavered and as blue eyes watered, Sullivan immediately carried him in his arms, coddling him. Opera sighed, putting down the spoon he was using to feed the baby while the pair danced around the room. They could tell that Iruma was trying; it was just that grandpa as a word was too difficult to pronounce. Even Opera had been drastically reduced to Opi.

“You miss grandpa? Should grandpa just skip work for today? Should I just stay with you for the whole week? Maybe grandpa should just resign. Grandpa had been working for many decades already and—“

“You need to work, Principal,”

“But—but—“

“Please hand him over. He’s not done eating yet,”

“Every time I take my eyes off him he’s growing! The next time I know it, he’ll be able to walk!”

Silence. Opera narrowed his eyes at his master.

Ah, he still hasn’t told him yet. Actually, Iruma was able to say his name while practicing his walk. It was quite a heartwarming event for both of them, something which Opera wouldn’t ever forget. The satisfied smile on the cat demon’s face would’ve been an answer obvious enough and Sullivan let out a scandalized gasp.

“He already took his first steps a few days ago, Principal,”

Opera stared at the clothes in Iruma’s gigantic closet.

No use, they don’t have enough. At this rate, the baby would have to wear something twice before he even turned a year old. He’d have to bring up this issue to Lord Sullivan later. Also, they didn’t have enough outdoor clothes— and hats, the young master looked good in hats. They should also stack up on jackets and coats. The servant spent a few minutes contemplating before he grabbed an outfit.

“Let’s go with this one today Iruma-sama,”

“Ba!”

Since they were going out, Iruma needed to look a bit more dressed than the usual onesie.

The Principal’s terrible work ethic has come upon Opera’s attention. It seemed like Lord Sullivan has been assigning most of his work to the assistants and teachers. No wonder he always came home an hour earlier than usual. At first, it was a letter he received before it became more and more demanding. Now, it wasn’t that the teachers disliked Sullivan. They wouldn’t complain about work since it was a higher demon that assigned it to them and ranks were hierarchies strictly obeyed by all. It was the aura that surrounded the other, it was dark and dreadful and they could barely stand it. Thus, they called out to Opera.

The cat demon had an idea about what was happening.

He was actually very, very sure on what was happening since there was only one thing that could make Sullivan act this way—

“I wanna show them how cute my grandson is!”

Iruma let out a happy babble as the servant helped him put his socks and shoes on.

Kalego couldn’t help but scowl.

The atmosphere at Babyls had become worse today. The moment Lord Sullivan arrived everyone froze, not bothering to question the bad aura that surrounded the demon. They wouldn’t be able to handle that no matter how many they were. The Principal wasn’t one of the three heroes for nothing. He wondered if someone important had been executed. What if something happened at the tower? Were they at war and was this due to stress preparing for an upcoming battle?

“You—“

What is he going to say?

“—Have to use this. Iruma-kun likes cute things,”

The Principal presented a rather cute looking study board with pink details and cute accents. It looked like something out of a kid’s storybook as it spoke obviously slowly for the listener to comprehend each and every word. Kalego’s eyebrow twitched. He was getting tired of this. Iruma this, Iruma that, Iruma’s been getting mentioned the past few days quite recently. Who on earth was Iruma!?

“Kyaaa! Devi-cuteeee!”

“This is Sullivan-sama’s grandson, Opera-kun? Yis,”

Sullivan froze, standing up his seat to look out of the window. It couldn’t be… It couldn’t be…

Raim and Stolas Suzie crowded near Opera at the gates. The servant was carrying a small child in his arms, Iruma, who snuggled close, a bit shy and hesitant around strangers.  He still wasn’t used to other people, the last time he met outsiders was when he had a haircut. There was a small whine from the boy before he buried his face against Opera’s chest, the women cooing at how cute he was. Although they were frequently around students, they rarely had the opportunity to see babies.

“I-ru-ma-kuuuuuun!” came the loud boisterous call from the Principal, a foot on the windowpane, wings stretched out. It didn’t take long before a strong gush of wind arrived, the three looking at Sullivan who was flying towards them. Iruma who noticed his grandfather smiled, arms automatically reaching out to him. "Did you come here to visit your grandpa, Iruma-kun? How nice of you!"

“Baba!”

“Yes, it’s grandpa!”

“Ah—Baba!”

“It’s grandpa!”

“Babababa—“

“Iruma-kun’s grandpa!”

Kalego who was looking out of the window had a frown on his face, expression looking quite disturbed at the sight.

“I-I-Iruma-sama!?”

Balam covered his mouth, turning around to see his co-workers sending him odd looks. It was Sullivan who had come to the staff room carrying Iruma in his arms. The child brightened up when he saw a familiar face, arms extending out to be held. The larger demon shook on his feet, sending the Principal a worried, nervous stare. It seemed like the child was using the perfume he made, there was no remaining human scent on him. But then again, a human would always be a human.

“Why…Why is Iruma-sama here?” It was too risky. Too dangerous. This wasn’t like getting a haircut because in this room were many high ranking demons, elites. If they kept their guard down even for just one second then their secret would be out. This was bad; very, very bad. It looked like only Balam was anxious though since Iruma and Sullivan looked carefree and happy. "What if they find out!?" he felt faint. He actually felt like he was going to faint. What were Opera-senpai and Lord Sullivan thinking!?

“My—how cute!”

“Oi, whose child is that?”

The teachers one by one got up their seats, crowding against the large demon. Sullivan snickered, this was it. This was the moment he was waiting for. A chance to boast. He wasn’t going to let this opportunity go. He had props and a whole lot of this to say for this!

“Hmm? Who is that cutie that you’re carrying, Balam-sensei? Hi cutie—“

“Good thing that you asked, Drarry-kun!”

The teachers of Babyls stared as Sullivan magically took out a black book, holding it up in the air. Kalego who was the only one still sitting on his desk narrowed his eyes, recognizing what that was. That was the book that the Principal and Balam were secretly discussing a few weeks ago. What did have to do with—

“Behold! Iruma-kun’s cuteness!”

A photobook containing photos of Iruma from day one, each carefully sorted out with captions on the back.

Sullivan’s thirty-minute speech was cut off when Opera entered the room holding a bunch of papers in one hand.

“Principal,” The demon flinched, turning around to face his servant. "Principal you have to go back to work."

He still hasn’t gotten started on his story about his grandson’s fourth month. He still had a long way to go, barely halfway there actually. Also, he had two more photo books to finish! The teachers awkwardly laughed, looking a bit exhausted but coddled on the baby nonetheless. Iruma who had finally warmed up was no longer hiding. Also, his grandfather and Balam were there so he had no fear! The baby's expression brightened when he saw the cat demon approach.

“Opi! Opi!” came the cute babble.

Small hands reached out from Raim’s lap, a kind cuteness they haven’t seen for the last thirty minutes. The teachers melted at the sight of chubby cheeks happily smiling while Kalego had a scandalized look on his face. It wasn’t because of the boy that he was like this; it was because Opera had his ears high up, tail happily swishing behind his back. Weird, very weird. It was so weird Kalego felt chills going down his back.

“You haven’t finished the accounts on the third year division. We’ll be in trouble if you don’t go through them personally,” 

Ring. Ring. Ring. Ring.

“And it seems like lunchtime is now over,”

The teachers groaned, one by one returning to their desks to gather their things. They still had afternoon classes so they couldn’t afford to stay in the staff room. Sullivan looked torn at the mention of work, wanting to prioritize his grandson over some piece of paper. Truth to be told, he’d choose Iruma over Babyls any day and he wasn’t even joking.

“But Iruma-kun—“

“He’ll stay with Balam for the time being while you work,”

“Bring him with us—“

“You’ll simply be distracted, Principal,”

A proper and logical reason to be honest.

Since it has almost been a year that Opera has been absent from Babyls, a large amount of paperwork hasn’t been done. They wouldn’t usually have this much to do but since Sullivan was in a low mood lately he’s been skipping them to dote on his grandson’s pictures. The principal needed to go back to work and Opera needed to supervise him to make sure everything was finished. That method was the most efficient.

“I-Iruma-kun, grandpa will miss you—“

“Opera-senpai I have…”

“Balam,“

Opera pointed two fingers to his eyes then towards Iruma, followed by a thumb ran across the neck.

The teacher gulped because the door closed shut.

“But I have class as well…”

“Ah, what do I do? I have make-up classes with 3-B. Eight students are on the verge of failing—“

Should he bring Iruma with him? No, way too risky. Contrary to one might think; students had pretty good senses when it came to these kinds of things. Also, bringing in Iruma with him would only put more attention on the child. They’d ask who he is, who his parents were, when his birthday was, why he smelt weird—and it’ll end right there, the secret’s exposed. Word would spread that there was a human in Babyls. Also, he'd be holding his class in the laboratory! Rather than the boy's identity being discovered, hazards ought to kill him first.

Balam pressed his lips into a thin line, going through the choices and possibility, wondering what the best course of action was for this situation. Iruma blinked, looking up at his caretaker who seemed to be in dismay.

“Just put a leash on him Shichirou. Let him fly around or something,”

Oh right, a leash. Thing is, you don’t really put human babies on a leash.

“Iruma-sama doesn’t like leashes,” he replied, trying to make it sound as convincing as possible. Was than an excuse acceptable enough? His former classmate scoffed before returning to his work, checking a bunch of papers with a red pen. Balam stared for a few seconds, Iruma happily babbling on his lap.

“Ah, that’s right. Why don’t you look after Iruma-sama, Kalego-kun?”

Chapter Text

“Hah?” Kalego asked exasperatedly before scoffing.

Him? Look after this child? The Principal’s grandchild? Opera’s protégé? He really didn’t want to get involved with this sort of stuff. He hated children. He wasn’t good with children. Teaching a bunch of teenagers was already difficult enough, everyone knew that babies were worse. Also, why did he have to do it? That was troublesome and he had work he needed to do himself. Kalego scowled at his friend who was looking at him with an expectant look.

“Just bring him to class and put a leash on him,” Referring to the leash that they used on mischievous students. There would be those who’d attempt to escape during flight tests. Babies were also hooked up to one since they tend to fly around and get lost— it was for convenience's sake.

“As I said, Iruma-sama doesn’t like leashes,”

What kind of spoiled brat is that?

So what? They just let him roam around the house then?

Kalego narrowed his eyes at the other, arms crossed above his chest. The larger demon was already running late. Any more than this and his pay would most likely get deducted. He didn’t seem that worried though. It looked like he was more concerned about Iruma rather than the time. Then again, does this guy actually trust him to look after a child? Him? Naberius Kalego? Impossible.

“You don’t have classes right, Kalego-kun?” A flinch. He knew what the other was trying to say.

Don’t do it. Don’t fold, don’t fold, don’t fold.

“Ba!”

Kalego saw a pair of blue eyes staring at him, a gummy smile and hands extended outwards. Of course, the child’s not scared. He was constantly around high ranking demons. He was coddled by one of the three highest-ranking officials in the Netherworld. There was also Opera who was his caretaker. This kind of behavior was troublesome though. He just hoped that the boy wasn’t as spoiled as other nobles.

“Iruma-sama is really well behaved! Right? Iruma-sama?” Balam looked confident enough when he said that. Opera kept praising the child for being good after all. Sullivan as well. All he could hear from the two were praises. Every time he visited the mansion, Iruma didn't cause a fuss either. He'd never seen him throw a tantrum before. "I'm sure he won't cause you trouble."

“Babibabi—“

Also, Kalego was a much safer option. Babies were sensitive to emotion so being crowded by a class might be too much for Iruma right now. As much as he would’ve liked, Balam wouldn’t be able to keep an eye on him. Half of the class would be done in the Chemistry laboratory as well. Although Kalego was a high-ranking demon with a higher risk, he knew that the other wouldn’t be the type to immediately eat humans… probably. He could only put his faith in the perfume's formula he had developed. The less exposure Iruma had to demons, the better.

Kalego looked hesitant for a while, trying not to budge for a good minute or two before he sighed.

“Listen up, kid,”

“Bi?”

“I will be working here so stay still and don’t do anything, got that?”

Iruma stared at the demon, looking a bit confused. He was sitting on the teacher’s desk with a red harness around his body as a precautionary measure for him flying (?). He didn’t really want to lose the Principal’s son. As much as he hated it, this was Lord Sullivan’s grandchild and there would most likely be consequences. Kalego sighed before he continued to read through the answers of his students, checking tests with a red pen.

“Babi?” the child reached out his hands expectantly, opening and closing. There was a soft whine after the demon pulled his hand back, the child looking disappointed.

Kalego narrowed his eyes before he huffed. Did Iruma want to hold the pen or something?

“No, you can’t have this. I borrowed this from Shichirou. Although you most likely know him as Balam,”

“Balamie?”

Iruma cutely tilted his head to the side, his entire upper body going along with him.

“Ah, yes, that guy,”

Baby talk. He almost forgot. This kid was quite unusual. No horns, no tail, not even speaking yet. Perhaps he had some sort of sickness? That would explain why Sullivan doted and spoiled him as much as he could. Understandable, really. There was also the possibility of him developing at a slower rate. That always happened to stronger demons. Knowing the boy’s heritage, that itself was also highly possible.

“Balamie! Balam-ieee, Balam—“

His friend also doted quite a lot on this kid. Balam didn’t seem that shocked when he saw Iruma for the first time. As far as he knew, he’s always only had an interest in mythical creatures, nothing else. Perhaps he changed his mind.

“You’re quite well behaved, aren’t you?” he said after realizing that he hasn’t had a temper tantrum during the last half an hour. Weren’t babies supposed to be more chaotic? Short-tempered? Impatient? The boy hasn’t cried once ever since he entered the staff room with Sullivan earlier. And that wasn’t even crying. He also hasn’t made an attempt to fly. Strange, Iruma was very strange. “If I recall properly, Lord Sullivan doesn’t have a successor.”

And he wasn’t married either. Then again, it wasn’t unusual for nobles to hide their family members or have an affair or two, higher-ranked nobles, most especially. Kalego stared at the child before he sighed. Sure, he was a bit curious but that was hardly his business. If Opera was looking after the boy then it meant that he must have lost his parents already. Contrary to one might think; Lord Sullivan was actually quite a secretive person.

Kalego remained silent, thinking for a while, letting Iruma play with the pen.

“Fine, you can have it,”

“What was your name again? Iruma was it?”

“Ba!”

“Naberius Kalego,” Accompanied by a soft pat on the head. Iruma closed his eyes at the contact before he looked at the demon in awe. The hand on his head did not pause upon the realization that the baby’s hair was quite soft. There was an indifferent expression on Kalego’s face but it didn’t look like he particularly hated the boy. Plus, this was a baby. Getting mad at a child who could barely talk was petty. He had morals, of course. "Nice to meet you, Iruma."

“Lego-shi?”

“I did not permit you to refer to me as such,”

“Baba—“

“No,” Blue eyes glistened over with tears from the reply.

The demon flinched, looking around the room. It was barely two in the afternoon so the teachers weren’t going to return anytime soon. He on the other hand, only had morning classes today since next week was exam week. He had already finished his entire schedule. Students were in the middle of reviewing today. He scowled, inching back a bit when he saw the child sniff, rosy chubby cheeks pouting.

“Fine,” he sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose.

“I give you permission to do so,”

“Ah, Naberius-sensei, is that your baby?”

“No, he is not. He is the Principal’s grandson,”

“Ah, so cute~”

Kalego accepted the papers that the students gave him, reading through a few lines. Iruma who was sitting on the teacher’s table, stared at the teenage demons before his eyes glistened over. Ah, of course. He still wasn’t used to other people. It’d be different if Sullivan and Opera were around but no. The students looked a bit flustered, sending Kalego worried glances, a few of them moving back to the door and away from the desk.

There wasn’t full-on crying, just chubby pouty cheeks, and large crocodile tears.

Kalego stared at the boy who started to hiccup. Cute.

“Stop crying, kid. You’re troubling them,” the students awkwardly laughed, not really knowing if such words were appropriate for a child. It looked like it did not because it seemed like it only made it worse. Iruma hiccupped louder, cute sobs echoing throughout the room. Kalego looked torn while the students nervously exited the room. They were done with their business anyway. “Look, such actions are not suitable for a noble. Especially you since you are Lord Sullivan’s grandson."

Can this boy even understand what he’s saying? He looked like he did. Also, children were much smarter than they look—he knew that. There was a sparkle in the boy’s eyes, a confused tilt to the side, but enough to express that he was at least processing something.

“Never show your emotions to anyone—“

“Hnn… Hic—waaaaaaah—“

That obviously did not work.

Kalego flinched, hastily standing up on his seat, the boy crying on his desk. In dismay, the teacher hesitated for about a good minute before he grabbed the boy and held him in his arms. Troublesome. Children were so troublesome.

“Stop drooling on my clothes—don’t nibble on the button—“

(And in the future he’d deny it with much conviction but he’d serve as Iruma’s most loyal and undying companion, perhaps even on par with Asmodeus.

He’d be the first one to arrive and the last to leave, bounded by the seal of trust and blood.)

By the time it was five o’clock, Kalego looked like he had been through an intense battle. He stood inside the Principal’s office with Iruma sleeping in his arms, the harness nowhere to be found, his shirt in a state of disarray. Opera tried to remove the young master from the teacher but small hands became too clingy for his liking. The cat demon narrowed his eyes at his lower classman, finding it a bit strange how his protégé would be this close to other people.

“You’ve grown close to Iruma-kun, Kalego-kun?”

“I thought Balam was supposed to look after him?”

“Exactly, that’s what I thought as well,”

The hours went by fast and as expected, he wasn’t able to do much work. He had to look after the boy and Iruma just wouldn’t stop crying for some reason. Every time he put him back on the desk to sit down the child would complain. He ended up with Iruma sitting on his lap, the boy squirming frequently which was why he had to stand up from time to time and move around. It was hectic, to be honest.

Now there was this situation…

“Iruma, let go,”

“Ghnn—Lego-shi!”

Opera froze; his hands about to grab the boy but freezing midway. A pen dropped on the floor, Sullivan standing up from his seat with a horrified expression on his face. The boy had just woken up so his hair was a bit messy, looking like he was about to cry again. Kalego groaned; this looked like some prime-time afternoon drama for goodness sake.

“Stop being a crybaby and go back to your family,”

Iruma? A crybaby? Iruma wasn’t a crybaby though? What kind of fallacy was this demon spouting? As Kalego tried to convince the child there was a sob that filled the room.

“Lego-shi… hic—waaaaah—“

“Senpai, please take him off me,”

No reply.

“Senpai?”

Iruma was still crying. Kalego turned to look at Lord Sullivan who was sitting on his desk with a serious expression on his face.

“Lord Sullivan?”

Silence.

“Iruma-sama, you don’t have to say goodbye to those two,”

Balam awkwardly laughed while Kalego scowled, shaking his head. It wasn’t like he needed a goodbye anyway. The Principal looked more depressed than this morning, a dark aura trailing behind him as they walked towards the gate. The baby peeked through Opera’s shoulder, expending a hand towards the teachers standing near the entrance. For a second there was a whine before it evolved into full-on fussing.

“Balamie! Lego-shi! Uhnnn—“

Balam waved a hand at the boy who looked like he wanted to leave while Kalego huffed as he walked back to the school.

“He called them by their names…”

“Principal, I’m sure that he’ll say yours soon,”

“But he sees me every day and he’s only seen Kalego-kun once,”

“Principal…”

“Iruma-kun, what about grandpa—grandpa—“

“Principal, the food is turning cold,” the servant said, Sullivan had his head resting on the dinner table, fork in one hand. He had become like this ever since they’ve arrived home a few hours ago. Iruma was currently sitting on his high chair eating dinner, getting spoon-fed by the servant. The baby’s eyes were still a bit red from too much crying. Quite an unusual sight, really. It took a long time for the child to calm down.

“And Iruma-sama, you need to eat,"

“No!”

Opera froze at the reply he received from the baby. Iruma huffed, turning his head to the side and avoiding the spoon that was being offered to him. The servant’s pupils shook; his hand unsteady. In the background, you could hear utensils clattering which was most likely the Principal’s doing.

“I-Iruma-sama?”

“No! Opi, no!”

That did not make things better, to be honest. Opera pulled back a bit, remaining silent while his brain tried to process what was happening. It wasn’t unusual for babies to be like this but Iruma… their Iruma. Where did he even learn the word no? As far as he knew, they’ve always indulged him and spoiled him as much as they could. Surely, they’ve never given him a no as an answer. Was that word even uttered inside these mansion walls?

“W-What is it that you are not satisfied with?”

“I-Iruma-kun was with Kalego-kun and he…he lost his way,”

There were a lot of unexpected things that happened today—namely Naberius Kalego.

Opera tried to calm his emotions as he picked up the spoon, Iruma turning the other way again much to his dismay.

Kalego received a lot of glares and complaints the next day. Also, his work was doubled.

Chapter Text

Sullivan trembled at the sight, forehead creasing. He had realized that his relationship with his dearest grandson was not improving—or so he felt. He hasn’t gotten the boy to say his name over the past ten months that they’ve been together. Now, although Iruma’s vocabulary had gotten wider and bigger, for some reason he still couldn’t say grandpa. Due to that certain circumstance, he felt highly hurt and offended. Even Opera’s name was said first! To be followed by Balam, Kalego, and that inanimate object they called Totto-san. Unfair, this was completely unfair.  

Dearest grandson must have been doing this on purpose to rile him up. He knew that Iruma inherited his evilness of course. Like grandparent, like grandchild to be more exact. He was sure that this was all a ploy because the boy was currently having a completely decent conversation with Naberius Kalego on the phone.

“Umm… No-no? Lego-shi!”

Naberius Kalego, Iruma’s favorite demon in the Netherworld. Unexpectedly more favored than the all-time caretaker, Opera. It was a shocking revelation when it dawned unto them. It made the servant's productivity lower by a good twenty percent as an effect. Currently, said cat butler was holding the phone on loudspeaker, careful so that the child wouldn't push any of the buttons. If you looked closely you could see his ears twitch, both in irritation and annoyance.

Kalego wasn’t that special. He didn’t even like children. He didn’t know how to look after babies yet for some reason Iruma was attracted to him. Balam would’ve been understandable but Kalego?  Their young master was being brainwashed by whatever this was.

“I have to finish work, Iruma. It’s mid-day,” the teacher spoke on the other side of the line.

A grim look appeared on Opera's face, expression looking calm but pissed off with how dark his eyes were. This guy… This guy was the only person with the heart to say no to Iruma. Does he not know how privileged he was? Naberius Kalego better watch out when Opera gets back to Babyls. He was kind of tempted to break the phone but he knew how upset the child would be if he did.

“Ghnn… no-no! Bye-bye, no-no!" the baby complained upon the realization that his friend was going to hang up. They've been talking on the phone for ten minutes and perhaps Iruma found it not enough. After their first meeting, the child has always been frequently looking for Kalego. Thankfully, phone calls seemed to suffice. Thing is, he’s never wanted to call his grandfather before. “Lego-shi—“ and before the whines turned into tears, Opera picked the boy off the carpet, carrying him in his arms.

“He has to hang up, Iruma-sama. Kalego-kun has work to do,” the servant tried to explain. Iruma let out a childish hum before he snuggled closer towards Opera’s chest. The demon let out a sigh of relief before taking over the conversation on the phone. “Iruma-sama has to eat and take a nap. Hurry up and say goodbye.”

“Bye, Iruma,”

“Bye-bye, Lego-shi!” quite a cute, cheerful response before Opera hung up. Iruma’s cheeks were flushed red in bliss, a smile on his face before it turned into a pout after the call ended. The servant looked at the child in his arms, patting his head for a moment before heading towards the crib and placing him down.

“Iruma-kun," Sullivan coddled as Opera moved back, cleaning up the toys on the carpet. "Why can't you say, grandpa? Do you not like grandpa?" Perhaps they weren't spending enough time together. Then again, the boy had only met Kalego once. Surely, that wasn’t the case. Maybe it was the opposite. Iruma must have seen him around way too much thus he wasn't as clingy to him. “You hate grandpa?”

“Baba!” Iruma sat up his crib, arms extending outwards towards his grandfather.

Well, that was also kind of cute but still! He wanted a proper name. Sullivan cooed, giving up for now as he danced around the room with Iruma in his arms. The child giggled in excitement, liking how energetic his grandfather was. Opera on the other hand silently went out of the room to grab the boy’s lunch.

“Principal, this is for…”

"We're visiting Walter Park, Opera-kun," referring to the Grand Opening of a new theme park in town. It was supposed to be the biggest and happiest place in the Netherworld. He's been asked to attend, one of the many privileges of being a high ranking demon. Behind the elder, there was a mountain of things, a huge bag filled with objects. "I'm so excited. This will be Iruma-kun’s first time in a theme park!" the servant doubted that they'd need that many things to bring. 

“But don’t you have to go to the tower tomorrow?”

“That can wait! First, I need to spend time with my dearest grandson!”

Opera doesn’t say anything, already used to this kind of impulsiveness. He’d have to make sure that Iruma doesn't follow that trait after being exposed to it multiple times. It'll turn into a bad habit. Iruma who was sitting on the floor tilted his head to the side before falling over on his pillow and toys.

“But what if he gets sick again, Principal?”

“I considered that as well!” ah, of course. He should have known. “Which is why I’ve asked Balam-kun to accompany us. If he's present then we have nothing to worry about," with that, they'd know if something was off with the boy. Also, it was bad to keep him inside the mansion all the time. They wanted Iruma to live a normal life. Children needed to have fun at that age as well.

“There’s more to it, right Principal?” Opera narrowed his eyes, sitting on the carpet, Iruma crawling towards his lap. It didn’t take long for the boy to arrive, the human using the servant’s arms as support so that he could stand up. Nowadays Iruma could walk but that was only if he was holding onto something or accompanied. “You don’t usually accept invitations like these.”

Sullivan nodded, starting to explain, “It will also be a good time for me and Iruma-kun to grow closer.”

Opera hummed in reply. He kind of expected it already. It seemed like his master was quite upset about the whole name thing after all. He remained silent as the elder demon excitedly continued to pack, looking down at Iruma who was tugging at his vest. Cute. The young master was cute. Every time they looked away he was growing bigger and bigger. Thank goodness his hair had grown out as well.

"You should hurry up and say, grandpa, Iruma-sama,” accompanied by a soft pat on the head.

“Welcome to Walter Park!”

Followed by a loud eruption of confetti, band music playing, the ribbon cutting, and the gates being opened. Iruma who was being held by his grandfather had stars in his eyes, cheeks flushed in excitement, smiling as wide as he could. Opera was standing next to the two, Balam looking nervous about the crowd. There were tons of people present, wanting a taste of the newly opened theme park. The larger demon’s anxiety seemed to vanish when he saw how eager the child was, the fun overshadowing the fear.

“The happiest place in the Netherworld!”

“Forget about all your worries, demon folk!”

The said park was once resplendent of the town's forgotten field covered in moss and weeds. It took an entire year for the place to be constructed, engineers all over the Netherworld visiting just so that they could design the best rides accessible to the public. There were hunted houses, booths, food stands, petting zoos, and games everyone could play. Since Iruma was still barely one year old, he could only experience quite a few.

"Baba!" the boy pointed towards a certain booth, one wherein the player had to wield a toy bow and hit the center to win a prize. Sullivan turned his head to where his grandson was pointing while Opera blinked, looking at the stall before he volunteered.

“You want to play that one, Iruma-sama?”

“Nn!”

“Very well…”

It was safe to say that Iruma got all the toys he wanted that day.

Balam was crouching down next to Iruma at the corner of the petting zoo. People were terrified of all the high ranking demons in one place, so much that the staff started to sweat, calling his manager for help. Who wouldn’t be scared? One of the three heroes was present. Usually, three adults wouldn’t be allowed inside since the enclosure was for children but they’ve made an exception after Opera argued, saying that he wouldn’t risk Iruma getting an injury. Currently, the boy was happily looking at a hell kitten—a Sith or so they called it, tilting his head to the side when the animal started to yawn.

Cute.

Balam felt fulfilled at the sight. There was nothing more satisfying than mythical creatures getting along with other animals. Their species was still quite different though. Sullivan stood about a meter away from the boy, making sure that he captured every moment. This ought to make a good addition to his photobook. His grandson was so adorable. He loved how whenever Iruma was hesitant he’d immediately look towards his direction and ask for assurance. Also, that outfit was magnificent, sailor themed with a matching beret. It was a mix of white and navy blue. Good job, Opera!

Click. Click.

Balam was trying to convince the child to touch the small animal, explaining how it was alright to do so. Iruma hesitantly put out his hand for the Sith, scared that it’d bite. The teacher smiled, knowing that if it did indeed show its fangs or claws, the boy’s guardians would probably sue Walterpark and shut it down during its first opening day. The manager who was standing beyond the fence looked nervous.

“Meooooow,”

Iruma’s face brightened, the animal's red fur making contact with his palm. On the contrary, it was the kitten that approached him first, bumping its head against the boy's hand. He softly and gently patted the kitten's head, remembering how Opera did it. Ah, now that he thinks about it… Blue eyes blinked, attention going from the kitten to the servant, then back to the kitten again. Balam chuckled, knowing that the boy most likely figured out the similarity.

“What do you call that again, Iruma-sama?”

“Is umm Sith-ie?”

Opera showed a proud smile. He’s been teaching Iruma basic things over the past few weeks. They used flashcards and the servant spent most of his time educating the child. The human didn’t seem to mind as well, rather than that, he must have found learning fun. Balam was second to know after Sullivan, he found it unusual for a baby to be interested in things like flashcards. Demons usually started education at six, nobles at four. It was just to make Iruma learn more words at first.

“Meow,”

“Ah, Sith-chan!”

The three smiled at the affectionate nickname that the child gave the kitten. Iruma seemed to be confused and in dismay when the animals started to approach him, the larger ones coming closer and bumping their heads against the boy’s knees and feet, a few rolling on the ground showing their bellies. Balam was just about to grab Iruma if it wasn’t for the expression on his face— happy. Also, it didn’t look like the animals meant any harm. The Siths were purring.

The larger demon tilted his head to the side because Huh? Were Hell Cats that friendly?

Didn’t they usually flee when children tried to pet them?

Click. Click.

“Now that’s unusual,” Balam blinked, watching Iruma sit on the ground with a handful of Sith kittens on his lap. There were also a few trying to climb his shoulders, the adult Siths rubbing their heads affectionately against his arm. Opera looked on guard but intrigued at the same time while Sullivan clicked away with his camera, silently observing.

"They don't mind being pet but they're usually not this affectionate,"

Perhaps it was a human trait? Did they notice Iruma’s smell and become attracted?

They made sure to use a ton of perfume today though.

From behind them, they could hear demons gasp in awe.

“You can’t have that Iruma-sama. You’ve already finished your ice-cream. That’s Balam-kun’s,”

“Uwaa… Hnnnahh—“

Balam flinched when he noticed a pair of blue teary eyes directed at his direction. Throughout the months they’ve been observing the baby, they’ve noticed quite a few things when it came to his eating habits. One, unlike demon folk, humans weren’t picky with food. It was either due to the difference in species or it was because of Iruma himself. Demon folk was quite difficult when it came to that regard so Iruma being compliant made Opera's work easier. Second, although the boy wasn't picky, he did eat quite a lot.

And by a lot, they meant a lot.

Most of the time, Iruma would only complain if he was hungry. Small servings didn’t sate his stomach and when he was only just a few weeks old, they’ve gone through multiple bottles of milk in one day. Opera wondered if that was a good or bad thing. Perhaps again, it was a human trait. They've settled with that conclusion since they couldn't resist Iruma’s sulky, hungry face.

“Iruma-sama, you’re really happy today, aren’t you?”

Nom. Nom.

The boy happily giggled, nodding his head as Balam fed him a spoonful of ice-cream. Opera sighed, wondering if that much sugar was alright for a baby. Sullivan didn’t seem to mind, smiling at his grandson as he pats his head. Taking Iruma to Walter Park was a good idea after all. The boy had this happy, excited expression on his face ever since they saw the gate. It seems like it was worth the trouble and hype. Opera sighed, slightly smiling afterward.

He’d let it slide just for today.

“How cute! How old is he now?”

“Hohoho~ Iruma-kun is ten months old,”

For some reason, they've gotten acquainted with the owner of the said theme park.

“Which one would you like, Iruma-kun? This one?” Sullivan looked up at the bundle of balloons that a staff member was holding, grabbing one string to emphasize which one he was referring to. Iruma who was being held had his head craned upwards before he babbled, nodding with a smile. Since it was the opening day, they were giving out balloons to children. Even if they didn’t, if Iruma selfishly wanted to, his grandfather could most likely buy him all the balloons in the world.

Behind them, Opera and Balam trailed carrying tons of gifts and prizes.

It was safe to say that their group received quite a bit of attention that day.

“They have an aquarium!?”

In Walter Park!?

They built an entire building just to accommodate all these aquatic monsters!?

Balam’s mouth opened in shock when he saw a Styx monster pass by. Opera who was standing beside him looked delighted by the fish as well, so much that his ears were standing upright. Iruma let out a sound of awe, eyes sparkling at the sight. It was a big aquarium at least ten times taller than normal demons. They used magic to strengthen the barriers and Iruma was fascinated by it all.  

Sullivan who had a smile on his face laughed when he saw his grandson’s expression.

“Should we build one in our house?”

By the time they’ve gotten back to the mansion, it was already late at night. They took a carriage since they couldn’t risk flying in the cold wind when Iruma was around. They’ve also dropped Balam in town. Iruma looked a bit sad and he whined for a while but it wasn’t anything serious. The boy looked tired after everything. His excitement was drained by all the fun and before they left they’ve spent the last hour watching the night parade as well as the fireworks show.

Iruma sleepily snuggled against his grandfather’s chest, eyes trying to stay open.

Opera smiled at the sight before he got off first, opening the mansion door for his masters.

“They won’t fit in your crib, Iruma-sama,”

“Nn? No-no?”

“Just Totto-san. You won’t be able to sleep well if it’s crowded,”

Opera handed the boy said Totto-san, ignoring the mountain of plushies left on the carpeted floor.

Iruma slept very peacefully that night.

"What are you doing, Principal?" Opera asked, narrowing his eyes at the archdemon who had somehow forced his way inside Iruma’s crib. It was a bit small and crowded for a full-grown adult, especially for someone as tall as Sullivan but it worked with the elder folding his legs as much as he could. It was currently six in the morning and as usual, the servant got up early to start his routine. “Iruma-sama needs to rest.”

Iruma and Sullivan were both in their pajamas—matching of course. Grandpa wouldn’t let that opportunity pass. The cat demon sighed, knowing the probable cause. When did the Principal sneak in the nursery anyway? He wouldn’t be shocked to hear that he’s slept in here all night.

“I won’t get to see him for a month," the elder demon reasoned out. He wasn't exaggerating, it was the truth. He had an important meeting to attend at Babel tower. It was something about strengthening the borders since the miasma was growing thick again this year and monsters were spawning more. There would most likely be fighting involved. "I need my Iruma fill,” before he proceeded to hug the boy. Iruma blinked sleepily, his grandfather rubbing their cheeks together.

“We went to Walter Park together with him yesterday, Principal,”

“And it was so fun,” Sullivan seriously replied, looking at the baby in his arms. “Right, Iruma-kun?”

The child whined, not liking how his sleep was disturbed. He snuggled against his grandfather's chest before closing his eyes again. Sullivan would miss this. The softness, the milky scent, all the fun that might occur and waking up every day to see his grandson's face in the morning—he’ll be missing a lot. A month was a very long time and although Opera was strong enough to defend the mansion while he was gone, it was Iruma’s growth that he was worried about.

He’d miss it. He’d miss one month in Iruma’s life. No way—

“As expected I’ll just skip the meeting—“

"One doesn't simply skip an elite conference, Principal," Opera reminded the demon who frowned grimly. It seemed like he didn't want to go. He was convinced that his grandson was more important after all. “The Thirteen Crowns will be present. Lord Beliar and Lady Levy as well…” that’s why Sullivan definitely could not skip. Not when his position was one of the three highest. His presence was vital to the meeting. It simply could not commence without him.

“You have to be there by twelve. You still have a bit of time,”

Opera sighed, noticing how his master's body shook. What now?

“When babies don’t see their family for a long time they forget,”

“Iruma-sama won’t forget you, Principal. Please eat your breakfast,”

“He will. He hasn’t even said my name yet. If I leave now, he won’t remember me,”

“He’s just ten months old. He only knows four demon names so far. Surely, he won’t fail to recall,”

“I’m sure that’s true but grandpa… Grandpa… Grandpa will—“

A sob. A napkin being dabbed upon teary eyes. A demon duke covered in anxiety which was a bit exaggerated, to be honest. The servant sighed, wondering how he should deal with this. The coddling needed to lessen a bit. He wasn't really in a place to complain since he did it as well but still… Meetings shouldn’t be skipped. Not when it was that important. Surely, it was necessary to attend the Netherworld Elite Conference which was also an Emergency Meeting? The letter arrived two days ago.

“Please have faith in Iruma-sama,” Opera turned to look at the child who was sitting on a high chair, blinking at them in confusion. He had his bib on, hair neatly combed by the servant a few minutes prior. They stared at him for a few seconds before the baby smiled at the attention that was focused on him.

“You won’t forget your grandfather. Right, Iruma-sama?”

For some reason, it felt like a flag had just been raised.

“Make sure to eat well, Iruma-kun,”

“Nn!”

“And take a lot of naps! Don’t skip nap time!”

“Nn!”

“When you’re sad, make sure to call grandpa… Grandpa—“ the usual emotional parting they did at the door but a bit more worse than usual. Opera just went with the flow since indeed, a month was quite long. He was a bit happy that he'd have Iruma all to himself though albeit he'd be bothered by the extensive amount of phone calls he ought to receive from his master. "I'll miss you, Iruma-kun!” an affectionate kiss on the forehead and cheek. One last pat on the head before Sullivan hesitantly opened the door.

“Say bye-bye to grandpa, Iruma-sama. Bye-bye,” Opera flatly said, making the child wave his hand.

Iruma who was silent for a while, stared at his grandfather’s back before he opened his mouth.

“Grandpa,”

Opera and Sullivan froze. The archdemon robotically turning his head to face his grandson, his hand on the door's handle stiff as ice.

“Grandpa, bye-bye,”

Blue eyes and flushed cheeks, a hesitant and sad expression as if not wanting the demon to leave, small hands waving goodbye.

It was extremely difficult to make Sullivan go to work after that.

(And in the future he’d be the same as well—

A tad bit hesitant when his grandson heads to the tower in his place.)

Just like that, four years had started to pass.

Chapter Text

Sullivan had a smile on his face as he walked down the mansion’s extending hallway.

The sun was setting outside the ceiling-high glass windows, a soft clumsy ballad playing in the air. At this time of the day, there was only one place where his grandson would be at. Opera as well, he’d be there, observing while Iruma took his classes in one of the rooms they’ve specially renovated. It was located at the very end of the hall, all the sound and keys resonating throughout the manor.

The archdemon peeked his head through the door, lips curling upwards when he saw how focused the boy was.

There was a grand structure molded to the center-left of the room, all shiny, pitch black with rows of white ivory keys. Small fingers hesitantly played, stopping from time to time but regaining its pace moments later. He had planned on watching a bit longer but unfortunately, the servant noticed him immediately.

“Principal, what are you sneaking around for?”

And just like that Iruma’s concentration was broken; he whipped his head towards the door where his grandfather was timidly hiding. The boy’s piano teacher, Miss Wysera, was a middle-aged woman with lavender hair. She blinked before she bowed her head in respect to the demon.

“Grandpa, you’re back! Welcome back!”

“I’m back, my dearest grandson! We’re you lonely without grandpa—“

Miss Wysera chuckled before she tidied up the music sheets that were on the piano, “Let’s end our class for today, Iruma-kun.” She was one of the most renowned musicians in the Netherworld, not that Iruma had to know. His grandfather wasn’t going to assign an incompetent teacher to him. It wasn’t unusual really; Sullivan always went out lengths to spoil his grandson. “Make sure to practice that piece during your free time.”

“Yes, sensei. Thank you for today,” Iruma nodded with a smile, waving at his teacher as his grandfather carried him off the floor and unto his arms. There was small talk between the adults for a while, Wysera saying that she’d be back next week again. “Thank you sensei!” repeated for the second time, the woman laughing at him. She was a good teacher; she wasn’t that strict but definitely assertive when she wanted to be. It didn’t take long before she exited the room and left.

“How was class today, Iruma-kun?”

“I’m on my second piece! I’m still not good at it though…”

A small pout, blue eyes looking a bit downcast. Cute.

Sullivan frowned while Opera opened his mouth to speak, “What did I say about acting like that, Iruma-sama?”

Now, there wasn’t really a necessity for the boy to learn how to play the piano. It wasn’t a noble thing either. In the Netherworld where magic and strength were the basis of power, music wasn’t essential to be learned. It could turn out to be a good occupation for others but for Iruma well… It was more of a hobby. There wasn’t anything to do inside the mansion aside from reading books in the library and play all day long. While thinking of things the boy could do without going outside, they came upon this solution.

It was a good thing that Iruma liked to do it as well. He wasn’t a prodigy at it but he definitely was passionate and he found the class fun. Thing is, for some reason, the boy had low self-esteem.

“But it’s true though! I can’t play it as well as sensei…”

“Miss Wysera is a hundred eighty-nine years old. She’s been playing professionally since she was fifty,”

There it was again, the pout. Iruma grumbled before he hid his face on his grandfather’s shoulder.

“You’ve only been playing for three months,” Opera added on, wondering what to do in order to fix that. He was glad that the boy wasn’t spoiled but it definitely made things difficult sometimes. “You’re doing pretty well, Iruma-sama.”

Sullivan stared at the slightly vexed Opera before he laughed, “In about a hundred years you’ll also become just as good, Iruma-kun.” He patted his grandson’s head, trying to assure the boy. “If I had to say, my grandson’s quite good at it! I won’t be shocked if you managed to play it in a week!”

“Nn,”

“What you mean to say is that you can’t play it well for now, correct?”

“Nn…”

“When you manage to play it, show grandpa, okay?”

“That kind of thing happens when you don’t have any acquaintances,” Kalego said, skimming through the stack of papers he had yet to check. The other teachers in the staff room, Balam as well, were in the middle of the same process. Exam week had just finished. “The only demons he knows are the Principal and Opera-senpai,” who are both monsters in a way. “And then there’s you… You’re not exactly normal either,” he sighed, knowing the probable source of the problem itself.

Balam hummed in reply, thinking about it for a while, “You look after Iruma-sama as well.”

Kalego groaned. Indeed, when those three were busy and there was no one to look after Iruma, he’d be the one to drop by and babysit. It also didn’t help how the said boy seemed to be so attached to him. He even slept over at the mansion once every two weeks. For some reason, he’s been sucked into Iruma’s pace. He wasn’t unwelcoming about it nonetheless. It’s been like this for almost four years.

“Of course he thinks he’s not good at anything. He’s comparing himself to freaks,”

“He doesn’t need to do that though…”

“He’s just four about to turn five, what can he do?” ironic because in the beginning Kalego would insist that he wasn’t good in dealing with children. “He needs to go out and talk to children his age. I don’t understand why you guys insist on locking him up in that mansion. He’s the Principal’s grandson for goodness sake,” Surely, lesser demons don’t hold a candle against him.

Also, who would dare put Iruma in danger when he was associated with Opera and Sullivan?  

Balam pressed his lips into a thin line. Ah, that’s right. Kalego didn’t know that Iruma was a human.

“His health is frail...”

“For goodness sake, that reason again. He hasn’t been ill for months now,” he was starting to get annoyed with how those three were acting. They were too overprotective of the boy. He knew that Iruma didn’t have parents and some sort of accident might have occurred but still… “You guys do realize that you’re only ruining that boy’s standards for himself.”

Balam remained silent at what Kalego just said.

It all kind of made sense for some reason.

“Iruma-sama, let’s go to the dentist,”

“Umm… What about Opera-san’s work?”

“I have to take you to the dentist. I’ll skip the staff meeting at Babyls today,”

Iruma shook his head under the blanket he was hiding under, “I-It doesn’t hurt anymore.”

Opera frowned before he pulled at the sheets.

“Here, you hold it Iruma-sama,” Opera said, giving the child a cup of ice-cream. “It’s your reward for being good today,” for obediently following the servant’s demand. Also, it was for behaving properly at the dentist. The other children were a riot, Iruma however, wasn’t. The four-year-old looked at Opera’s hand before he accepted what he was given.

“Thank you, Opera-san,”

“You’re welcome,”

A mother whipped her head around, looking at Iruma with a shocked expression on her face because what kind of child thanks their guardian!? Her six-year-old tugged at her hand, demanding he play with her on the slide next. There were a few more children running around, their parents resting on the benches.

They were at a park, Iruma seating on a swing, the servant standing behind him. The boy’s cheek was swollen, eyes a bit red and puffy. The cavity’s been tormenting him for a few days now and Opera had a hunch but for some reason, Iruma refused to visit the dentist. Was he scared? They didn’t know.

“Mama! He bit me! I don’t want to play with him anymore!”

“You little devil! Come over here—“

“Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa—“

Opera’s ears flinched, observing the chaos that was unfolding in front of him. He sighed, wondering if they should leave. He looked down to see Iruma’s eyes covered in a fascinated, excited glaze. The servant remained silent for a while before he opened his mouth to speak. Playmates. Of course. Balam had suggested that to him as well.

“Would you like to go play with them, Iruma-sama?”

“Sullivan’s grandson acts too much like an adult, doesn’t he?”

“Why do I have to apologize to him, Mom!?”

“What do you mean she didn’t intend to…”

“Devils don’t apologize! I’m not a baby anymore!”

“Didn’t even complain when he got pushed off the slide—“

Iruma rarely cried.

“It would be better if Iruma-sama complained once in a while. You do not need to apologize for every single thing,” the walk back home was silent and a bit solemn. The human had his face nuzzled against Opera’s shoulder ever since they’ve left the park a few minutes ago. They could’ve taken a carriage but the servant wanted to take the opportunity to talk. “It’s fine to get mad and upset. No need to justify everything.”

(A weakness that would’ve remained as a weakness if it didn’t save the Netherworld from the verge destruction. It wasn’t a hero wielding strong bloodline magic that saved them from the enemy; it was the compassionate kindness of the King who stepped forward and soothed the wailing monster.)

A disaster. Iruma’s first attempt in knowing other children that is.

“Actually, it would’ve been better if you just threw a tantrum earlier,” Iruma not complaining just made things worse. The girl intentionally pushed him off the slide, making him tumble on the ground, the wounds evident on Iruma’s knees. Everyone saw it happen, it was undeniable. There was no screaming or crying involved, just a short pained whine before the boy got up and brushed the dust off his legs.

It made the situation so much worse, to be honest. Iruma being kind just made the girl look bratty. Her mother had to reprimand her in front of other people and it ended with a crying fit. It would’ve been better if he had retaliated even just for a bit.

It wasn’t a good thing. Four-year-olds weren’t supposed to be like this. They were glad that the boy grew up to be understanding and kind but still…

“Please don’t tell grandpa,”

“I’m your servant. Don’t say please,” Opera insisted, trying to correct how Iruma acted. He liked being respected and treated well but at this rate, things would take a drastic turn. He didn’t want others to take advantage of that kindness. Iruma would just get hurt. “But even if you ask me not to, I’ll still be reporting this to your grandfather.” Which would result in another disaster.

Then again, no one in that mansion had the heart to scold Iruma.

Sullivan’s eyes were dark when he saw the scrapes on his grandson’s knees.

He turned to look at Opera who shook his head before returning his attention back to Iruma who was sitting on the bed. The elder demon bent low to match the boy’s eye level, patting him on the head, asking if he could have a hug.

They’d have to fix that mindset of his and for that, they needed to make adjustments.

“Playmate? Your grandson needs a playmate?”

“Hmm… Try asking Asmodeus or Baal,”

Iruma wasn’t allowed to go out of the mansion without permission.

If you think about it, it was quite a normal rule. He was just four years old, turning five in a few weeks. Most children weren’t allowed to go out without supervision anyway. The only time he could go out was when Opera would take him to the town or when his grandfather would like to go somewhere with him. It was normal really; other four year olds had the same lifestyle. Some children went to daycare since their parents were working but Iruma had Opera around. Also, Balam and Kalego visited quite frequently.

He’d spend the day playing with his toys, drawing— ah, recently he’s had piano lessons and his teacher was the nicest ever. Balam and Opera also taught him how to read and write. He couldn’t really read difficult books yet but he could understand the picture books that Balam made. They had pretty drawings and the words were easy to understand.

Then again, no one really realized just how daunting those books were. The demon was simply happy that he was allowed to share his work.

It was one of those times wherein Iruma visited Babyls since Opera needed to do something. Assist the Principal and make sure things were finished, per say.

“If you want a playmate, how about I introduce you to an acquaintance of mine, Iruma-sama?” Baal, one of the thirteen crowns that governed the Netherworld asked with a sly grin on his face.

Kalego who was requested to supervise the child frowned, wanting to walk away but hesitant to do so. It was a matter of ranks of course. He couldn’t really cause any trouble with one of the ruling leaders. Not while they were in Babyls at least. Iruma on the other hand, Sullivan’s grandson, someone who was exposed to a much stronger presence, didn’t look as terrified.

“We’re not blood-related but I consider him like a brother. He’s older than you by two years but I’m sure you’ll get along. He’s also quite smart and knows a lot about magic,”

An invitation. It didn’t seem quite genuine at all.

A few of the thirteen crowns were visiting today. They were taking precautionary measures against the miasma that had started to spread. Babyls was one of the most populated places in the Netherworld so it was one of the places they had to secure. It was also Sullivan’s domain so it ranked high in their priority list. Although there were a lot of strong high ranking teachers, it was better to be safe than sorry.

Kalego was about to refuse the other when Iruma opened his mouth to speak.

“Really!?”

“Really,”

“He knows about magic!? What about magical creatures?”

“Of course he’s quite knowledgeable about those as well. It might seem like I’m bragging but he’s—“

“Does that mean he’s read Ylanon?”

Baal blinked while Kalego stared at the child he was holding in his arms.

Iruma looked excited to talk. He’s never met someone knowledgeable about magical creatures like Balam after all. Opera read those books to him like bedtime stories during the day and his shelves were riddled with the teacher’s creation. It was basically history simplified for children to understand. He’d surely get along well with a child who also knew these things.

“What about The Code and Ethics of Former Syllan? Kyltihrion? Beta Genesis?”

“Iruma…”

“The Antigone? ‘I don’t even exist—I’m no one. Nothing’,”

Baal pressed his lips into a thin line, fist tightly clenched. Kalego knew a hundred percent who to blame.

“Speak so that I may see you,”

One of the few many codes in the Netherworld. Iruma could definitely name a few more. Opera’s read him those books dozens of times before. Compared to playing the piano, he loved learning about magical creatures so much more. Balam made them seem so interesting after all.

The demon gritted his teeth at the child, blue eyes shining with sureness.

“I rebel: therefore I exist,”

Antithesis. Karna. The Demonic Lore.

A rather strong statement that made Baal flinch, a forced smile showing up on his face. Kalego scowled, tucking the boy against his shoulder. Must have hit a nerve. The four-year-old was oblivious to everything but the teacher could tell that the demon was somehow affected.

“As expected of Iruma-sama…” came the reply from one of the thirteen crowns. “I’ve heard from Lord Sullivan that you were rather intelligent but I did not expect this. Color me surprised.”

Kalego embraced the child a bit tighter. Iruma blinked.

“Forgive me. I don’t think my brother would be an aide good enough for you,”

Before he slightly bowed goodbye and turned around, walking away with a vexed expression marring his face.

The fifth-period bell rang after that.

“Burn this—“ Kalego said when he saw one of the said storybooks lying on his friend’s desk. Iruma tilted his head to the side, wondering why the teacher activated his fire magic all of a sudden. Balam hastily stood up, trying to grab his work from the other. “Burn this!” he repeated with more urgency, all the while holding the child in his arms.

“What’s wrong with you!?”

“Uncle, no!”

Contrary to one might think; he was actually quite proud.

Chapter Text

“A tea party?”

Iruma looked up from his seat on his grandfather’s lap, tilting his head to the side. Was it an event where demons gathered just to drink tea? Is that supposed to be fun? Sullivan smiled before nodding, hands pausing to give the child his full attention. Apparently, if the Principal had his grandson in his office, his work ethic and morale improve by fifty percent. Opera had been taking advantage of that discovery from time to time.

“It’s an event where you sit down and talk with others, Iruma-sama. They also serve desserts, not just tea,” Opera explained, eyes focused on file that he was reading. “I assumed that you’d have to be at least thirteen to attend one, Principal?” because for children, it’s quite a boring event. Adults were different since young ones don’t really like sitting around for long periods of time. Thus, the age constraint was put up for formality.

“It’s not a formal tea party. Also, I’m the one attending. I’m simply taking Iruma-kun with me,”

Anything that one of the thirteen crowns or three heroes attended could be considered as an extravagant event of some sort. Their presence was that important. Opera had no idea what his master was talking about.

“But you don’t even like parties, Principal…”

True, Sullivan always rejected the invitations he was given since he wasn’t obliged to go due to his high rank. Also, events like those are a landmine—for women in high society most especially. Rather than talking to others, the servant knew that the Principal preferred to stay at home and be with Iruma. Something was up. There was definitely a motive behind this. He narrowed his eyes at the other, the archdemon flinching a tad bit. Opera’s gotten quite brave when it came to things that involved Iruma nowadays.

“It’s a tea party held by the Asmodeus family. Amaryllis said that he’d let her son meet Iruma-kun. They’re of the same age and it’s a formal way to introduce the two. Also, I doubt there would be anyone else other than us four,”

“So when you said that it’s not a formal tea party you were actually meaning to say play date,”

Sullivan coughed at the remark. True, although tea parties needed at four people, four-year-old children could barely count as participants. Also, Asmodeus? The family that housed Amaryllis-sama? The bloodline of the succubus? Lust and charm? They were considered high ranking demons but still… The servant tried to process what he was hearing; only coming up with one conclusion.

“What’s a playdate, Opera-san?”

“Ghhk…”

“He’s setting you up, Iruma-sama,”

The four-year-old blinked, eyeing his grandfather innocently. Truth to be told he doesn’t really understand what they were talking about. They kept using difficult words so it was hard to follow. Opera didn’t look that happy as well. He had his angry cat face on, or so Iruma would say. Was it that bad? 

“You were the one who said that Iruma-kun needed to know people around his age, Opera!”

“Yes, but we’re talking about Miss Asmodeus Amaryllis correct?”

“W-What about her?”

“She’s a succubus so her son…”

Sullivan groaned because now that he thought about it, the servant had a point. The idea of Iruma smiling so happily with an acquaintance overshadowed all the doubts. Then again, they shouldn’t be so quick to judge. It’s a known fact nonetheless, that all of the Asmodeus clan members had the power to charm others, that is.

“Now, now…. Opera-kun, they’re both four-year-olds…”

“Have you seen Raim-sensei? She’s Amaryllis-sama’s student. Imagine what her son’s like,”

“Sure, but I figured that Iruma-kun would enjoy the company of a noble child more,” since they were known to be more well-behaved. Also, they tend to be more mature due to the way they were strictly brought up. After what happened at the park last time, Sullivan had given up the idea of his grandson naturally making playmates. He knew he wouldn’t be able to, not when he was that reserved.

“I’m sure Amaryllis only wanted an acquaintance for her son as well,”

“I do not understand. He’s a noble demon yet he’s always sick, mother?”

Asmodeus Alice, age four, asked with a frown on his face.

David, the mansion’s butler sighed as he stood behind his young master’s chair, waiting for them to finish eating dinner. The boy has always been like this, reserved and a bit strict. He wasn’t really stoic or spoiled but he definitely was harsh when it came to his words towards other people.

Alice, as a whole, could be summarized in one word: prodigy.

Although the Asmodeus family had produced many capable heirs, Alice has been very special, showing immense talent at such a young age.

“You talk like an old man. It’s not cute, Alice-chan,” his mother pouted, cheeks puffed and resting on her two soft hands. She doesn’t understand what’s gotten into her son. He was well-behaved compared to other children but that I won’t believe it until I see it with my own two eyes attitude was not good. “You won’t be able to get Iruma-sama like that.”

Alice was an enigma. His mother had introduced him to children his age but none of them really stuck. Most of them by the end of it all ran away crying, some ending up in fights. She’s tried to acquaint him with girls because maybe then he’d be nicer but that didn’t really happen. At this age, it was important to foster connections. She was worried that her son would grow up cold and alone, neglecting social life.

Sure, it was still passable since he was young but the Asmodeus family was full of social butterflies.

“Why do I have to get Iruma-sama?” along with a childish frown, eyebrows knitting together in confusion.

Amaryllis smiled at her son’s lament, “To become his aide of course! It’s a once in a lifetime chance!”

The four-year old’s frown deepened.

“Ah, but perhaps becoming his fiancé would be better? Aside from Azazel-sama’s daughter, there aren’t any other good candidates,”

“Madam…” David sighed, Alice, looking a bit puzzled.

Amaryllis heard that Sullivan had an exceptional grandson so imagine how happy she was when he asked her if she could introduce Alice. She took it as a sign that the archdemon was interested in the two’s betrothal since it wasn’t really elaborated. Also, having a fiancé at this age wasn’t really unusual. Many had been engaged even before they were born. She could only cross her fingers, really.

“The tea party is in two weeks. Even if you find him unlikeable, try to be nice at least, okay?”

“My point is that you don’t read Ylanon as a bedtime story to a four-year-old,”

“But it’s a simplified version and Iruma-sama likes it…”

“That’s right, Kalego-kun,” Opera nodded, defending Balam who was the target of most complaints and criticism. It was probably also due to the fact that Kalego didn’t want to get in trouble with the servant. “What’s wrong with me reading Balam’s storybooks for Iruma-sama? He likes it and he’s able to learn something at the same time.” Well, when you say it like that it did kind of make sense.

“Baal was freaked out,” because I mean who wouldn’t be? It was a subject even he didn’t understand. He probably thought that Iruma read the entire three hundred paged lore when in reality it was summarized by Balam into twenty pages. “It’s not normal. Don’t you think he’d enjoy something more normal?” Something that isn’t related to ancient history, mythical creatures or lore. The books Balam wrote were borderline heretic after all.

“Like what. Please prove your point,”

“Yes, give us an example. Go ahead,”

Because this was Balam and Opera he was talking to. Did he really think they didn’t consider doing that? They’ve thought out each and every option there was. They also had regular storybooks at home that were specifically chosen to fit the child’s age but still… their protégé just liked more complicated things. Perhaps it was because mythical creatures were much more interesting? Children had a broad imagination after all.

“Normal books. Like those ones where demons find humans hiding under their bed,”

The servant opened his mouth to rebut his suggestion before he closed it again, realizing what he was just about to say— it was an insult. He had just barely stopped himself from cursing out Kalego because he remembered that the teacher was not aware of Iruma’s origin. If he was, then that remark would’ve been extremely rude and he wasn’t just going to let that pass. Beside him, Balam looked terrified, pale as a sheet and sweating buckets.

“I do not wish to raise Iruma-sama with such a pathetic outlook. That belief is long overdue,”

“It’s a children's story. Everyone knows it—“

“Iruma-sama doesn’t need to,” Opera insisted; his face oddly more expressive than normal, tone much more pressing. “It’s unnecessary. Normal books are not cut out for him. The ones Balam writes are better.” A tad bit more complicated but definitely did not involve any humans. They’d deal with it when the time comes but not now. Not now.

“He’s a four-year-old,” Kalego scowled, not liking what he was hearing. “Instead of pressuring him to study, let him live normally.”

Opera clenched his fist while Balam awkwardly forced a laugh.

“But we’re not forcing him to study, Principal,”

“Yes, of course,”

“Iruma-sama genuinely likes Balam’s work. Also, we can’t let him know about humans. Everything normal children learned revolved around humans. Everyone thinks humans are food,”

“I know, Opera-kun,”

“I don’t want Iruma-sama to hate himself. I want him to live normally but it’s dangerous. Way too dangerous—“

“But I don’t want to meet Iruma-sama!”

“I’m sure you’ll get along with him, young master. Please don’t say that,”

“I don’t need to! I’m sure he’ll be like the others anyway!”

“Sullivan-sama is one of the three heroes but he was also a teacher back in the day. I’m sure his grandson is splendid,”

At that statement, Alice pouted, David slightly bending down to pat his head.

“Please do give it a try,”

Alice hated getting acquainted with people. It was a normal activity to do for a kid but it felt more like a chore. He didn’t like how noisy children his age was and how brash they acted. It almost seemed like they had no self-control and it irked him to no end. Above all else, it was the aristocrat complex they had which he hated the most. It was when they acted all high and mighty, looking down on others.

At such a young age, Alice realized that he hated hypocrites.

(And because of that, now and in the far future, his life would change. It also changes his outlook and views because no one could compare. 

No one could compare to that kindness, compassion, and genuine concern he was shown that day.)

Iruma, although usually a pretty good kid, had a bad habit.

“No, Iruma-sama, you cannot eat crayons,” Opera sighed, hand gently grabbing the child’s jaw, inspecting his mouth. Bits and pieces of said crayons were scattered on the carpet and he could only hope that his proxy didn’t swallow any. That would be bad. “I stepped out for a moment and I come back to see this. Do you have anything to say?” The boy would have to brush his teeth and he ought to make sure he brushed them twice.

Iruma looked at him with slightly teary eyes and Opera flinched, trying to resist.

“Why?”

“Crayons are made out of wax and they are toxic. You’ll die if you eat it,”

“But I thought demons weren’t supposed to die that easily?”

Ah, the perks of having an intelligent protégé. For some reason, he all of a sudden wanted to deck Balam.

The servant frowned before he replied, “Yes they do. Demons can die. Many demons have died from eating crayons.”

It might sound mean but Sullivan loved whenever Iruma had nightmares.

“C-Can I sleep with you, grandpa?”

During those nights the boy would escape from his room and run down the hallway, hesitantly pacing back and forth in front of his grandfather’s door. Sullivan of course, with his heightened senses, notices his presence in an instant but decides to let it be. He liked the thought of Iruma heading to him in the middle of the night, knocking on his door, seeking comfort.

The child didn’t really need to go that far that since his grandfather and Opera would come flying to his side the instant something bad happened. All he needed to do was cry out or scream. It was that easy. Then again, this as well was quite endearing to see.

“I… I even brought my own pillow! You don’t need to share yours so…”

Cute. Very very cute. Iruma-kun trying to convince grandpa is very very cute.

Sullivan tried to control his expression, trying to be a source of reliance. Heroes were like that, right? They were never flustered and they were always calm and collected. Opera frequently called him out for exaggerating often and he’d argue that he wasn’t. It was simply the effect his adorable grandson had on him. I mean… how could you resist!? You either had to be heartless or Kalego.

“I can’t?” Iruma asked when he didn’t receive an immediate response per usual. He looked up at the other with big blue teary eyes, small hands clenched around a white fluffy pillow. “Grandpa?”

Ah, getting out of bed tomorrow morning would be extremely difficult. Sorry in advance, Opera.

The archdemon took a deep breath, neutralizing his gears before he put on the best grandfather smile he could muster, “Of course you can sleep with me, Iruma-kun~ Come in. Come in.” It didn’t seem quite as calm as he intended to but it was sufficient. It was more toned down than usual anyway. If this occurred during the morning he’d most likely be gushing in tears.

“Sorry! I know you have work tomorrow and—“

Whatever the four-year-old said, the Principal had already cut it off, drowning in the thought of Iruma being concerned for him. Demons weren’t this affectionate nor did they seek out other demons. They did dote on their young though. Sullivan, with his blatant affection for Iruma, combined with this was just bad. The control the boy had over him was destructive. The archdemon sat on his bed, watching his grandson get up, the spot next to him on the mattress slightly dipping with the added weight.

“Did you have a bad dream, Iruma-kun?”

“Nn. I dreamt that Cerberus… Cerberus was outside our house,”

Ah. Mythical creatures again.

He felt kind of tempted to tell Iruma that Cerberus was the ancestor of the Naberius family. Perhaps that’d make him separate from Kalego a bit. Then again, he was aware of how much the boy liked the teacher. Iruma wasn’t the type to judge others as well. They’ve tried their hardest to make him learn that lesson.

“What if he follows me here, grandpa?” Iruma asked, scooting under the blanket. “We don’t... We don’t have a lyre to make him sleep,” since that was Cerberus’ weakness in the story. Sullivan hummed in reply, running his fingers through his grandson’s damp hair.

“No, he won’t. We have a gate and he can’t pass through unless Opera-kun opens it,”

And Opera could beat that Cerberus. Quite literally actually.

“What if he eats Opera-san?”

“He won’t because Cerberus is scared of Opera,”

Quite literally as well.

Iruma blinked, looking up at the demon, confused. Cerberus was a three-headed dog though? He was a very powerful creature so why would he be afraid of Opera? Was Opera-san strong? Sullivan chuckled at his grandson’s troubled face before he thought of a reply. It seemed like the boy wasn’t aware of how much strength his guardians had.

“Opera-kun bullied Cerberus at school. They fought a lot back then but I scolded them and now they’re close,”

“Close? You made them make-up, grandpa? Wow,” Sullivan smiled, confident due to Iruma looking up at him in awe. “Does that mean that Cerberus won’t eat me? He won’t come to our house?”

“No, he won’t. If he does then grandpa will protect you!” a pat on the head, one soft smile before Iruma laughed, inching a bit closer to his grandfather. “No harm will come your way, I promise.”

(And if there was, all of them would be annihilated to dust.

Sullivan’s nature had already changed to kind, gentle and loving, hands only existing to protect.

But when it comes to this: in matters of his grandson’s safety, do not trifle with him. He is one of the most powerful, a candidate for the position of the demon king and the most relentless creature you’ll ever meet. He’ll rip the world apart with his bare hands all for that one small existence because you see— even death has a heart.

And that death… along with others, have learned how to love ceaselessly.)

“Good night, grandpa,”

“Good night, Iruma-kun,”

Sullivan slept well that night, not a tad bit bothered because deep inside he knew that Cerberus was one of Iruma’s loyal protectors.

Chapter Text

Iruma stared at Opera who was rummaging through his closet. They were supposed to have the tea party with the Asmodeus family today. It was a bit past lunch and they were expected to arrive at three so the servant was starting to prepare his proxy’s outfit. There was no way he was going to allow the boy to appear in front of others without looking presentable.

He has to be dressed up nicely, maybe add a ribbon or a cravat while they’re at it.

“Which one would you like to wear, Iruma-sama?”

Opera was holding up a bunch of shirts of different styles and colors. Apparently, those were the ones suitable for said occasion. The servant’s eyebrows knitted, reminding himself to buy a few more after realizing that his young master’s options were extremely limited. This was unacceptable and Iruma had already grown out most of his wardrobe. 

“That one,” the boy pointed at the white short-sleeved top.

“Good choice, today’s quite hot,” Truth to be told the boy just randomly picked one of the choices. It was a coincidence, really. Iruma wasn’t knowledgeable regarding clothes since the cat demon was the one that always dressed him. “Wearing this color would make you feel cooler,” Since it was rather hot out today, and wearing a long-sleeved jacket would only make it worse.

Demons might be able to endure but Iruma was an entirely different matter.

Opera went through the drawers, deciding on which ribbon to use. They had a bunch in different types of cloth and colors. In the end, he decided on blue, one that would match the four-year old’s hair and pants.

When he returned to the bed where Iruma was sitting, he sighed when he saw the child’s expression.

“You’re frowning, Iruma-sama,” quite a deep one on top of that. The four-year-old was sprawled out on his bed like a starfish, glaring at the ceiling. “What’s wrong?” despite already knowing the probable cause. It was that, right? The tea party? “Perhaps you’re worried about something again?” since he’d feel a bit happy if he heard the young master complain for once.

“Nn,”

“What is it?”

“What if they don’t like me, Opera-san?” wasn’t really a complaint and it was voiced out rather softly as well. After that event at the park, he’s been kind of anxious, really. Often times, Opera found himself assuring the four-year-old.

“What kind of demons are the Asmodeus? They’re nobles right?”

Weren’t children supposed to be more confident? Excited?

Although Iruma was looking forward to going to a new place, he wasn’t sure about meeting new people.

“Yes, they are nobles, Iruma-sama. They’re very strong demons,” leaving out the fact that they could use fire magic or that the Asmodeus heir was a well-known prodigy. That’d just bring the boy’s self-esteem down; completely unnecessary. “But Sullivan-sama is so much stronger than them.”

“A strong demon…” Iruma mumbled under his breath, sitting up on his bed. “But how can you know that they’ll like me, Opera-san?”

“Just a hunch,” a reply which made the four-year old’s frown deepen.

Opera smiled before he walked a few steps forward, kneeling down so that he was on the same eye level as the child, “You really have nothing to worry about, Iruma-sama.” He extended a hand, affectionately patting the boy’s head.

“When you arrive at the manor, just be yourself and I’m sure they’ll like you,”

“Really?”

“Really,”

Small arms reached out for a hug and the servant leaned over to comply.

“I just know it, trust me,”

“Are you sure your shoes don’t hurt, Iruma-sama?”

“Yes, Opera-san,”

“And what about your handkerchief, Iruma-sama?”

“It’s in my pocket, Opera-san,” as if to emphasize his point, the four-year-old rummaged through his pocket and held up a white handkerchief. “We double checked everything before I left the room, remember?” a wide toothy grin. They just went to the dentist a few weeks ago so Opera knew that the boy was missing one molar but who’d notice?  At least he was back to smiling again.

“Don’t eat too many sweets or you’ll get cavities,”

A lie because he always made sure that Iruma brushed his teeth three times a day.

Nonetheless, the boy instantly replied, “Yessir!”

Iruma’s hair was neatly brushed, white short-sleeved top with brooches and a ribbon on the collar, navy knee-length shorts, black socks, and black shoes. His outfit suited him a lot. Opera would’ve liked to escort them to the Asmodeus manor but he had things to finish in the mansion.

“Iruma-kun! We should leave now or we’re going to be late!” Sullivan called out from beyond the gate, standing in front of the carriage they were going to take. Iruma blinked before he gasped, hastily running towards his grandfather, the servant telling him to slow down from behind his back. “All done with Opera-kun?” opening the door, gently helping his grandson get in the carriage.

“Nn!” Iruma nodded before he peeked his head. “Bye-bye Opera-san! We’ll be back for dinner!”

Food as usual, of course. As expected of Iruma.

Opera’s lips curled up into a smile before he laughed, “Alright. I’ll make sure to cook a lot so please be back on time.”

He waved a hand; the carriage door closing after Sullivan took his seat.

“Have fun with your first tea party, Iruma-sama,”

“Madam, they’ve arrived,”

David announced, entering the room after he’s knocked on the door twice.

Amaryllis blinked before her face brightened up, glancing at the clock that donned her son’s room, “Ah, good, good! Right on time!”

She had just finished dressing up Alice, satisfied with the white vest he had on. He looked good, really good! Usually, the servants would do this job but they needed a superior hand. It wouldn’t be bad to make a good impression on Sullivan and Iruma.

Alice got off his seat, frowning at how tight his ribbon was, exasperatedly loosening it.

He earned a glare from his mother by doing so and it was immediately returned to its original state.

“Where are they, David? Don’t tell me they’re still outside,”

“Of course not, Madam,” the butler replied, tone calm and unfazed. He kept the door open for his masters, trailing a few steps behind them.

“We gave our greetings and then escorted them to the main hall. They’re currently waiting at the guest area,” They weren’t going to do anything half-heartedly with one of the three heroes visiting their abode.

“Very good. Thank you for telling us, David,”

“Of course, Madam,”

“Oh, and Alice?”

“Yes, mother?”

“Make sure to behave,”

 A statement that made the boy frown but aware that he had to be in his best behavior today.

“Glad to see you, Sullivan-sama, Iruma-sama. I’m so glad you could make it today,”

Iruma looked up at the woman in awe, gasping at how pretty she was. Were all nobles this beautiful?

He’s never met a noble before! (Wasn’t really aware that Balam and Kalego were one, but then again those two don’t count). It was almost like she stepped out of a storybook! Or from one of those cartoons Opera lets him watch during weekend mornings. She was more beautiful than Raim-sensei! Although he’d argue that everyone was pretty in their own way but still!

“My name is Asmodeus Amaryllis, nice to meet you, Iruma-sama,”

A sweet smile and an elegant curtsy, it almost looked like she was sparkling, really.

“Y-You know me?” a statement which made Sullivan and Amaryllis chuckle.

“Of course, Sullivan-sama always talks about you during our meetings, Iruma-sama,”

“Nn! I’ve been telling everyone of how cute my dearest grandson was!”

The four-year-old looked up at the two, realizing how excited they were. They kept going back and forth about what things they talked about and how Sullivan had brought his Iruma collection to the Elite Conference. Iruma flushed when he realized that his pictures were being passed around. Geez… grandpa! A pout made its way to his face as he watched the adults converse.

“Iruma-sama,” a voice called out and said Iruma noticed the boy that was standing next to Amaryllis.

“My name is Asmodeus Alice, a pleasure to meet you,” a slight bow, arm horizontally placed across the stomach.

Asmodeus Alice… He looked just like his mother albeit smaller and male.

Pretty.

Iruma blinked before he hesitantly replied, “N-Nice to meet you, Asmodeus-kun?”

Magenta colored eyes narrowed at him making him flinch.

“Yes, I am a boy, Iruma-sama,”

To which Iruma hastily answered, “O-Of course! I was just wondering if I should call you with a –kun or with a –sama. I’m sorry if you misunderstood. I knew you were a boy!” Amaryllis and Sullivan paused, Alice looking at him surprised. “Forgive me. I didn’t mean to offend you,” big blue eyes were a bit teary, fingers fiddling with each other.

There was a moment of silence before the woman spoke.

“O-Of course it’s fine with him, Iruma-sama! Even I call him Alice-chan!” Amaryllis interrupted, standing behind her son with both her hands on his shoulders. “Right, Alice-chan?”

Iruma stared at the boy, lips pressed into a thin line, hesitantly waiting for a reply. Beside him, his grandfather chuckled knowing that the other was probably taken aback by the apology. Demons don’t ask for forgiveness after all.

It took quite a while before Alice was finally able to organize his thoughts.

“Of course, please address me however you’d like…”

Iruma’s eyes sparkled at the layout in front of him.

“They have cake, grandpa,” he whispered to his grandfather, slightly leaning over the table.

“I know,” Sullivan replied, knowing that they weren’t exactly being discreet with how Amaryllis tried to hold herself back from laughing. “Opera-kun usually doesn’t allow you to eat that right? I won’t tell him so go ahead.”

The tea party was held in the Asmodeus manor’s garden. There was a white pavilion with seats intended for a small gathering, the servants carefully bringing the deserts on metal trays. Even the plates were pretty! And the teacups! Their cups at home weren’t this small and they weren’t made out of porcelain. Iruma had expected the drinks to be served in a mug or glass. Now he feels a bit bad…

“Which one would you like, Iruma-sama? Earl Grey or Jasmine?”

Alice ran through the options and the boy knitted his eyebrows in confusion.

“It’s a bit hot today so maybe Iruma-sama’s should be iced. Or perhaps you’d prefer hot tea?”

Erl Grayy? Jasmint? Iced? Hot?

He doesn’t really know which he preferred and his eyes were starting to spin. Also, he hasn’t given the tea’s temperature a thought. He just assumed it was tea. Perhaps there was a lukewarm option? Of course not. He would’ve asked his grandfather for help if he wasn’t happily sipping on his cup already.

Iruma’s eyes flickered to Alice who was patiently waiting for his answer.

“Umm… You decide for me Asmodeus-kun!”

“Ohh…” Alice blinked before he turned towards the trolley. “Is that really alright?”

His mother’s eyes widened and she coughed when her son stood up to prepare the tea himself.

“Let’s both get Jasmine tea then, Iruma-sama,”

The ice clinked against the glass.

Oh, so cold tea goes on glass and hot tea on cups.

Iruma learned a valuable lesson that day.

“What did you say?”

“Nn? That I like scones?”

“No, before that. What did you say, Iruma-sama?”

Said Iruma pondered, trying to remember what he said a few seconds ago.

“I said thank you for getting me tea, Asmodeus-kun,”

Alice gasped and his mother coughed on her cup for the second time of the day.

“Ah, that’s right,” Amaryllis started, hands on her lap to avoid any more tea related accidents.

“I heard you like to read books, Iruma-sama. What kind of books do you like?”

“Hmm… I don’t know what kind,” or genre in that matter.

Iruma tried to figure it out before he stared at his grandfather, tilting his head to the side. Sullivan should know, he’s read him books before he slept almost every night albeit a bit dramatic. The Principal’s reading sessions had always been too intense, too in character and too passionate. His motive was to recreate the events with accuracy of course! All for the sake of Iruma’s entertainment and education. Plus, they both had fun. What’s wrong with that?

“What kind of book is Beta Genesis, grandpa?”

“Hmm… I don’t know. Forbidden text?”

This time it was the servants who were carting out the trays that fumbled.

Amaryllis’ perfectly rehearsed smile faltered.

Iruma let out an ohhh as if the question had finally been answered. It was quite terrifying to the onlookers.

Never mind Alice since he was still young but…

“Forbidden text sounds cool, Iruma-sama,” the Asmodeus heir declared, looking at their guests in awe. He was still a child and he was also a boy. Boys liked cool things no matter what species. David who was standing amongst the servants, sweatdropped. “What is it about?” Blood, killing, the extinction of a handful of monsters during the 78 A.D. It was fun to dramatize, really. It was like National Geographic but in the Netherworld.

“It’s about mythical creatures!” animals that used to exist.

“They fight and all. Food chain stuff,”

Sheltered and polite— that was Alice’s first impression on Iruma.

He had expected someone a bit loud and spoiled so imagine his surprise when he was introduced to Sullivan’s grandson who was well-mannered, behaved, and respectful. It almost felt like an imaginary person had come to visit their mansion. Sullivan as well, Alice thought that the Principal was stern and strict but he turned out to be quite aloof and carefree. Perhaps the stories of him being a ruthless demon were wrong? There seemed to be flowers floating around the two.

The party as well, it was different than usual.

There was no screaming involved, no plates being thrown, and no one getting injured. That usually happened when other kids came around to meet him in his mother’s desperate effort to find him an aide. The servants would be crying blood by the end of it all but they wouldn’t complain since you see… children were children, it couldn’t be helped. They’ve always thought that Alice was special since he was decorous so now that Iruma has been introduced…

“Alice-sama…”

Amaryllis whipped her head around to see their butler shedding a few tears.

The servants looked like they’ve seen the light at the end of the tunnel as well, all their efforts for today completely worth it.

She turned to look at her son, noticing the expression on his face— flushed and a bit excited, carefully listening to whatever Iruma said.

For the first time, Alice found tea parties quite enjoyable.

“It looks like you were downplaying it when you said that your grandson was smart, Sullivan-sama,”

Amaryllis commented, letting the children talk amongst themselves. Alice and Iruma were talking about the sweets on the table and which one they liked the most; a bit peculiar since she knew that her son wasn’t particularly fond of sweet things. From time to time, Iruma would mention how he’s never seen those kinds of desserts before— macaroons and mille-feuille. By then it’s Alice’s cue to encourage the other to try and nevertheless, forks were shared.

It was an innocent sight since they were still children but she ought to bring it up when they grow up.

“Are you planning on enrolling him in school when he turns six or are you going to hire a tutor, Sullivan-sama?”

Typical guardian to guardian talk.

“I heard that Iruma-sama’s health was frail.”

True, when based on demon folk standards, Iruma was quite fragile

Demons only fell sick once or twice during their entire lifetime. Injuries were more frequent and they were resistant to both colds and flu. Their weakest state is during their first few months after birth but diseases could be avoided if proper care was observed. Due to these reasons, Iruma who was bedridden for three days, at least once a year, was considered extremely frail.

“Hmm… Would you like to go to school, Iruma-kun?”

“To Babyls?”

“Nn, would you like to enroll as a student when you turn six?” Amaryllis wondered why Sullivan was letting his grandson make such a big decision. The boy blinked before his expression brightened in an instant. “You’ll be a first-grade student and you’ll meet many children. We’ll also be seeing each other more often, Iruma-kun.” As if spending time together at home wasn’t enough.

“A first-grade student?”

“We’ll have lunch together!”

“And recess!” the four-year-old continued. “What about Asmodeus-kun? Are you going to school as well?”

Alice blinked, opening his mouth to reply before he turned his head to his mother. He was the same age as Iruma and was going to enter the same grade— if he was going to, that is. In the end, it was decided by his mother. Amaryllis laughed when she saw her son’s expectant face. Alice wasn’t really the type to request for something unless absolutely necessary.

“Can I go to school with Iruma-sama, mother?”

“Hmm… I don’t know. Would you like to go to school, Alice-chan?” a chance to tease her always stern and serious son for once. She watched him squirm on his seat, most likely trying to figure out if lowering his pride was worth it. He was a demon through and through. “Iruma-sama, you’re four years old, about to turn five, correct?” And when the child nodded she beamed a smile. “You’re the same age as Alice-chan then!”

She knew her son would be smart enough to figure that out. Smart enough to realize that they might end up in the same class if he did enroll.

“Yes! I would like to go to school, mother!”

Red cheeks, hands on his lap, and a hopeful expression.

Amaryllis tried to refrain herself from smiling.

“By the way, Lord Sullivan,” Amaryllis started off, the archdemon’s attention turning towards her. A bit of time had passed since they’ve started to talk so bringing this up should be alright. “If you’d allow me, I would like to discuss a more pressing matter.”

A well-trained business smile; sweet and inquisitive at the same time.

“What is it, Amaryllis?”

“About their engagement…”

Clank.

“Ah! Grandpa, you almost spilled it everywhere!” Iruma worriedly exclaimed, oblivious of his grandfather’s expression. “Mou! Opera-san will get mad if you get your clothes stained!”

Sullivan wasn’t really paying attention. His face was pale and he was stiff as ice. His brain was still trying to process what the woman had said. Truly, he had already forgotten about this. Alice didn’t look all that fazed. On the contrary, he looked like he had already been expecting this to happen. His mother had informed him that they were going to discuss this beforehand.

“He’s setting you up, Iruma-sama,”

The servant’s words echoed inside the archdemon’s head.

Ah, it’s been a long time since he’s felt like this.

Was he nervous? Flustered? It felt like his blood pressure was on the rise.

Amaryllis kept the smile on her face before she turned towards her other guest, “Iruma-sama, the roses are in full bloom today.” If there was one thing the Asmodeus manor was proud of, it was their extensive collection of rare florae. They were second to none in the Netherworld. As a family of succubi and incubi, they valued aesthetic forms rather intensely. “You do not have a garden in your manor, correct? How about you go see them with Alice-chan?”

“Roses?” he’s never heard of those before so he was quite interested. “Can I go see them, grandpa?”

Sullivan sweatdropped, trying to reply like a cool grandfather, “O-Of course you can, Iruma-kun.”

The boy’s face brightened and beside him, Alice stood up from his seat.

“This way, Iruma-sama,” The manor was quite big but Alice had been living in it his entire life so he knew which way to go. No need for the servants to follow them actually. Even David knew that their young master was capable enough to escort a guest. “We’ll be back in a bit, mother, Sullivan-sama.”

“See you later, grandpa! Miss Asmodeus!”  Iruma waved a hand at his grandfather before he trailed after Alice.

“See you later, Iruma-sama! Alice-chan~!”

“N-Nn. Have fun Iruma-kun!”

Grandpa will be alright. Grandpa will be—

“Shall we start the discussion, Sullivan-sama?

The Principal flinched, paling a bit when he saw the look on Amaryllis’ eyes.

Uh oh.

The Asmodeus family was a line of nobles that carried the blood of a race called succubus.

Aside from their natural talent in fire magic, they were also well-known for their negotiation and communication skills. They were demons born with charm in their veins— both in appearance and use of words. They were feared for a reason, good-talkers, and bewitchers; no need for long discussions since they always got what they wanted. It made them valuable assets when it came to politics, often sent as envoys to negotiate with other countries.

Sullivan, although a high-ranking demon and stronger, was facing someone in a battle outside his field of expertise.

“I should’ve listened to Opera-kun…”

Amaryllis wasn’t one of the Thirteen Crowns for nothing.

Chapter Text

“These are all roses!?”

Iruma gasped at the sight in front of him. There were tall hedges and stacks of roses that were almost as tall as him. The flowers varied from the size of a quarter, a few still barely budding, to the size of an adult’s full-grown fist. The garden was big, extremely big. Iruma had to wonder how they could manage such a massive space.

After meeting with Suzy, one of the teachers at Babyls that taught Herbology, he learned that florae required quite a lot of time and effort.

“Yes, mother likes them because they’re rare flowers, Iruma-sama,” and the servants were extremely careful when it came to tending to them. “Apparently if you sell them they fetch quite a high price due to how pretty they are.”

“And this entire garden is filled with roses…” the four-year-old said in awe before his eyes brightened in excitement.

“That’s amazing, Asmodeus-kun!”

“Not really…” he mumbled under his breath, loud enough only for himself to hear.

Iruma bent down to take a closer look, tilting his head to the side when he saw one in a lighter color.

“Would you like me to take one for you?”

“Ah, no! It’s fine… I’ll feel bad. I’ll just look at them from here,”

“You’ll be able to take a closer look if we take one, Iruma-sama,”

“But they’re rare, right? I don’t want to take something that important,”

A statement that made Alice remain silent, the sound of birds chirping filling the air. No one spoke for a while, Iruma observing the flowers with a smile, satisfied. Alice tried to understand the other’s reasoning but to no avail, he failed. In the end, he came upon one conclusion.

“Strange…”

“Hmm?”

“Iruma-sama’s strange,” no normal demon wouldn’t be tempted to take something pretty. All demons were naturally greedy and selfish. His previous playmates as well, they all demanded to take a few for themselves and added a bit more when they heard its value.

“You are aware that they’re rare yet you won’t take one for yourself,”

Strange, unusual, peculiar— Alice couldn’t understand.

“If you so rightfully desired, I’m sure that your grandfather would build a garden bigger than this for you,”

Filled with much rarer and expensive florae if he simply asked.

“No need for a garden, Asmodeus-kun!”

“Still… I’m pointing out that they’re rare, Iruma-sama,”

“Wha—just because they’re rare doesn’t mean I have to take one,” Iruma pouted in reply. He didn’t want it anyway. Sure, he’d get temporary fulfillment but flowers don’t even last that long, or so Miss Suzy said.

“Also, don’t you think they’d be happier if I just let them be? It’ll hurt them if we take them,"

“Flowers don’t have feelings, Iruma-sama,”

“It seems like you’ve never seen a Mandrake before, Asmodeus-kun,” Iruma grinned, drawing shapes in the air. “They’re a kind of turnip that scream when uprooted,” Wasn’t really a turnip but close enough. “And if they’re desperate they’d run around and destroy stuff. Suzy-sensei filed a complaint because of them. Those plants are scary… They make pretty good stew though!”

“A mandrake…” Alice has never heard of those before.

“Nn! Ask your mother! I’m not lying! A lot of plants have feelings, not just mandrakes,”

Alice stared at the other for a while before he sighed, bending down next to him, “I don’t understand.”

They weren’t really looking at the roses at this point. They were just talking.

“I’ve never met a demon like Iruma-sama before,”

“Don’t you think they’re a bit too young to get engaged, Amaryllis?”

Sullivan asked with a grim look on his face, elbows resting on the table, hands clasped together in all seriousness. He wasn’t angry, he looked quite anxious actually. Engagement… He wasn’t ready to give Iruma away. He could barely process the thought. Wasn’t Iruma-kun going to live with grandpa forever?

As their conversation continued, the archdemon could barely focus, all of his memories with his grandson flashing through his head. Indeed, at some point, he needed to give him away.

“It’s normal for nobles to get engaged at a young age, Sullivan-sama,” Amaryllis replied with a well-calculated smile, insistent on winning this argument. She was quite prepared for this actually. “Alice sees no discomfort in being betrothed.”

“Alice-kun is obedient to you,” the elder started off with a nod.

“My grandson as well, I’m sure that he’ll accept if I tell him that he was bound to marry someone I decided for him,”

“Then—“

“But I think I’d prefer if Iruma-kun stayed single for a while,”

The thirteenth head of lust couldn’t help but blink, tilting her head to the side.

“I don’t think he understands the romantic aspect of the word love yet. I don’t think I should be the one deciding that for him,” Sullivan explained, deciding that being straightforward would be better. It wasn’t like he had a better reason anyway. To demons it might seem unusual, rejecting a good proposal but Iruma was special… He was different. “Also, I still want to dote on him like a proper grandparent.”

There were so many things they haven’t done yet!

“You’re not giving him away, Sullivan-sama,”

Then again, Amaryllis was also quite persistent.

“It’s just an engagement for now, nothing’s set in stone. I was also reluctant when my marriage was arranged. Everything turned out well in the end.”

“It’s quite easy to fall in love with someone from your family,” the Principal argued, leaning back on his seat. Love was easy for someone who was born with such bloodline. Iruma on the other hand… “But I’m not sure if Alice-kun will accept my grandson… in his entirety.”

Human. Iruma was a human.

Setting aside his affection for the boy, that excuse should be enough.

“I’m sure my son will,” accept Iruma in his entirety. She didn’t raise him to be such a shallow demon. “I’ve never seen anyone more suitable for Alice than Iruma-sama,” never seen a child just as if not more intelligent. They’d definitely make a good pair in the future. “I’m sure he’s just as fascinated of him like I am.”

“But in ten years’ time he might be in love with someone else, or Iruma-kun would be,”

By then it’s not up to Sullivan or Amaryllis to decide.

“Iruma-kun is rather high maintenance you see. He’s always sick, needs to eat a lot, gullible, way too kind and sweet—“

“More the reason why he needs a very capable partner,” the woman argued, cutting off the other with a stern expression on her face. 

“Someone who would be a strong demon in the future, fit to be a protector and a mate at the same time,"

Sullivan narrowed his eyes at Amaryllis who smiled.

“My Alice can do that, Sullivan-sama,”

“What are those called, Asmodeus-kun?”

“They’re called thorns, Iruma-sama,” Alice explained, recognizing what the other was pointing at. “Surprisingly, they’re not poisonous.”

There were many plants in the Netherworld that had thorns and poison but they were more hazardous than roses.

A few were creature-eating plants, many species able to release spores. Over time they were able to cultivate them to be less dangerous but still, a few remained aside from those that were edible. Iruma hummed in reply, contemplating. All of the florae in their world had an ability or two, many thriving off mana so he wondered why this one didn’t. If it didn’t have thorns it would’ve looked… mystical.

“Hmm… They’re kind of weird,”

Isn’t it too beautiful?

“Are you sure this isn’t from another world, Asmodeus-kun?”

Iruma joked around while laughing and the other stiffened.

“Why are you so insistent on this, Amaryllis?”

Sullivan groaned, fingers tapping the table.

“What can you possibly gain from doing this? Isn’t this playing too much in our favor?”

Since Alice being engaged to Iruma doesn’t really bring the Asmodeus family a lot of gains. True, the boy was the grandson of one of the Three Heroes but aside from that there wasn’t really anything. Perhaps they were already convinced that Sullivan was going to name Iruma as his heir? Was it Babyls? Money? The Asmodeus family was already rich enough so that couldn’t possibly it.

“Alice-chan has never shown interest in anyone and I doubt he’d be able to find someone if I don’t lend him a hand,” throughout the years it’ll most likely just get worse. No matter how strong a demon was, solitude doesn’t have any exceptions.

“Also, as I said, you were quite downplaying yourself, Sullivan-sama,"

Alice, although a talented prodigy, needed someone kind and compassionate. Not just anyone would do.

“I believe that Iruma-sama would accomplish things no other demon has ever done before,”

“Your mansion only has one servant, Iruma-sama?”

Alice looked a bit shocked at the information he heard. Usually, noble houses needed at least a dozen workers. Cleaning, cooking, attending to the master— each one had designated workers. Even David, their head butler could only do so much.

“His name is Opera-san,” the cat demon who’s been with Iruma during the first day.

“When Suzy-sensei got mad, he was the one who got rid of all the mandrakes at the greenhouse,"

Some students decided it was a good idea to plant mandrakes in pots. All the glass shattered and they needed to replace everything.

“But then who looks after you, Iruma-sama?”

“Opera-san does, oh and grandpa of course,”

“Only your servant and grandfather look after you?”

“Nn!” the four-year-old nodded, unaware of the magenta-colored eyes that were focused on him. “They allow me to go to Babyls with them from time to time. I get to meet Uncle Balam and Uncle Kalego that way! Ah, there are other teachers as well! Raim-sensei, Drarry-sensei—“

“What about your parents, Iruma-sama?” Alice couldn’t help but ask.

Iruma paused, blinking at the other. He stared at Alice for a while before he lowered his head.

“Uhh… You don’t have to answer me if you don’t want to, Iruma-sama! I just figured—“

“Ahh, no, no! That’s not it, I was just thinking,” Iruma replied with a laugh. The statement didn’t really make him sad or angry in any way.

He was just thinking. “Hmm… I don’t have any parents.”

Accompanied by a small smile that made Alice’s breath hitch.

“I don’t think I have parents,”

“Give me some more time to think about this,”

Amaryllis brightly smiled before she excitedly nodded her head.

That meant that the other was seriously considering her proposal. It was more positive than negative actually. She was confident that Iruma would be a great leading figure in the future, she just knew. It was easy to tell how he stood out from other children. Contrary to what Sullivan might think, the Asmodeus family are actually the ones who’d gain most from this.

“Of course, Sullivan-sama! Please take your time!”

“Give me a week or two,”

A nervous expression clouded the Principal’s face.

“I’ll have to consult with… someone,"

“Everyone has parents, Iruma-sama,”

“Well, I don’t,”

“I’m sure you do. You wouldn’t be born if you didn’t have any parents,”

The four-year-old blinked, looking down on his shoes on the ground.

“Iruma-kun! You’re back!”

Sullivan burst into tears, waving at Iruma who was approaching them with Alice in tow. His grave conversation with Amaryllis had finally ended; his grandson back— it almost felt like all his tension had flown away somewhere. Ah, the source of his worries.

He never thought that thinking about Iruma’s engagement would be this stressful.

“Nn? What’s wrong grandpa?” the boy asked after being engulfed in a tight hug.

The archdemon shook his head while Amaryllis smiled at her son.

“How was your walk with Iruma-sama, Alice?”

“It was fun mother,”

“Oh, fun huh?” she blinked, once again surprised by the unusual words her son was saying.

Her lips slowly curled up into a smile before she started to laugh, pleased with how her plans went today.

Alice sent her a concerned look.

“Alice-sama, it would be rude not to say goodbye to our guests,”

David said out of concern, sighing when their young master shook his head. Alice was hiding behind the butler’s leg, magenta-colored eyes peeking at Iruma and Sullivan who were at the door. At times like these, they were reminded of the boy’s age. This was a first though, perhaps he was quite attached.

Amaryllis who was standing beside Sullivan tried to refrain herself from laughing.

“Was today fun, Iruma-sama?”

“Nn! Thank you for inviting us, Miss Asmodeus!”

“My, my~ How polite! No need for formality, feel free to call me mama—“

“Madam,” David coughed making Amaryllis pout.

Sullivan gulped, looking down at his grandson who thankfully looked a bit confused, “W-Well, we better head out. It’s become a bit late.” The sun had already started to set and it was turning cold. They promised Opera that they’d be back on time for dinner as well. “Thank you for today, Amaryllis, Alice.” Remembering the small child that hid behind the butler.

Amaryllis slightly bowed, chattering along while Alice pressed his lips into a thin line, eyeing their guests.

“Thank you for today as well, Sullivan-sama, Iruma-sama,” he said, hands tightly gripping David’s pants.

“You’ll be back for another tea party, right?”

Flushed cheeks, an embarrassed expression.

Amaryllis closed her eyes, trying to figure out if this was truly her stern and prideful son.

Iruma blinked before he nodded with a smile of a thousand suns.

“Nn! Of course! It was really fun, Asmodeus-kun! Please invite me for another tea party!”

The drinks were good and there were a lot of sweets. Also, he got to see the garden and talk to Alice. It was more fun talking to Alice compared to adults actually. Iruma wouldn't mind coming back for a second time. Next time he comes back he'd make sure to ask the other about the things he liked and disliked. Alice didn't really get to talk much about himself today.

At that, the Asmodeus heir’s face brightened before he saw the other extend his arms.

Their guardians gasped; Amaryllis looking excited and happy, Sullivan like his soul had been sucked out by the ether.

How will he explain this to Opera later on?

“W-What’s that, Iruma-sama?”

“A hug. I’m leaving now so don’t you need to give me a hug?”

He always gave Opera and his grandfather one, also vise-versa.

If possible, Alice’s face turned even redder before he hastily walked towards Iruma and accepted the offer.

“See you later, Asmodeus-kun!”

“See you later, Iruma-sama,”

And although the servants found it a bit difficult to separate the two afterward, they didn’t really mind.

Chapter Text

“And you see, you see! There were tons of desserts I haven’t seen, Opera-san!”

As if to emphasize a point Iruma extended his arms outwards. He thought the scale of the tea party was grandiose. It was the first event he attended so he was also quite excited about it as well. The hosts turned out to be kinder than he expected and his worries during the previous days deemed irrelevant. He was standing in front of the bathtub in the bathroom, Opera buttoning up his pajamas.

“Please stay still, Iruma-sama,” the servant said, trying to do his work properly. His proxy had become a chatterbox ever since he arrived from the Asmodeus manor earlier. During dinner time it was the same as well. “It’s very difficult to dress you when you move around.”

“It was cold tea and then Asmodeus-kun put in milk and—“

“Yes, yes,” having heard that earlier as well. His lips slightly curled up into a smile as he picked up the boy from the tiled floor.

“I’m glad you had fun at your tea party,” running his fingers through his young master’s hair, checking if they were properly dry.

“Nn! It was really, really fun!”

Snuggling a bit closer; arms wrapped around Opera’s shoulders.

“Is it cold, Iruma-sama?”

“A little bit,”

A baby blue cardigan, small feet covered with fuzzy socks.

It didn’t take long before Iruma’s in bed, nightlight turned on, carefully tucked under the sheets. It’s quite cold in the Netherworld these days, night time most especially. Opera sat by the edge of the bed, brushing Iruma’s hair back while the boy fought his sleepiness away, eyelids trying to close.

It’s been a long day after all.

“Will you read me a story tonight, Opera-san?”

“Hnn, I think it’ll be better for you to sleep immediately, Iruma-sama,” have some rest so that he’s fully energized in the morning. It might not look like it but the boy was a deep sleeper and Opera usually had a hard time waking him up. He wondered what it would be like tomorrow.

“I can tell you’re tired,"

“Nn,” Iruma already had his eyes already closed. “Let’s read it together tomorrow morning then.”

“Alright,” Opera hummed in reply before he leaned over to press a kiss against the four-year old’s forehead.

“Goodnight and sweet dreams, Iruma-sama,"

“Goodnight Opera-san,”

“Sullivan-sama,”

“Hiiiii—O-Opera-kun?”

“Please start explaining,”

The Principal started to sweat, silently gulping in nervousness.

“Now,”

“Iruma-sama is a human,”

Leaving no room for other excuses. That was it, period.

“You’ve heard of the Asmodeus heir being a prodigy,” common talk, the usual news. Asmodeus Alice was a promising demon despite being so young, perhaps even more prominent than a few of the Thirteen Crowns when they were his age. “Getting him on Iruma-kun’s side would be a rather good idea." He couldn't really think of a disadvantage in this situation. No matter which angle he looked at it, it favored their side. 

“It’s an engagement, Sullivan-sama,” as if to emphasize a point. It wasn’t just getting him into Iruma’s side. It was so much more than that.

“It means that they’re bound to marry," something that should be taken seriously.

Sure, engagements were common in the Netherworld, to nobles most especially but still!

“Iruma-kun would not be able to wield any magic,” unless they do something about it. They could use magical tools but those should be altered. Wings, horns, pointed ears, fangs—the boy did not have any of those as well. He was basically unarmed in a world full of demons.

“He can’t protect himself,” his main worry and concern. It wasn’t like they could always stay by his side as well.

Perhaps they were being a bit too overprotective? Too controlling?

“But still, that does not negate the fact that they’re two different species,”

“There’s no existing rule that says demons can’t be betrothed to humans,”

“Even so…” Opera tried to reason out. Surely he wasn’t the one being delusional? “Sullivan-sama knows how normal children are and their belief when it comes to humans.” They believed that humans were delicacies, a taste unlike any other. That they should either be consumed or killed when sighted. It was an outdated tradition but many still believed it.

Agreeing to an engagement was like offering Iruma to be eaten.  

“I can assure you that Alice is a smart child,” he’s seen the boy himself; well-mannered and polite. It also looked like he’s taking a liking to Iruma as well. “I want Iruma-kun to make one true ally he can fully trust,” if they develop a good relationship now then surely in the future the Asmodeus heir would be accepting enough.

“He won’t accept Iruma-sama,”

“You’re being rather defensive, Opera-kun,”

Opera pressed his lips into a thin line, “Setting him up in an engagement that’s bound to fail is dreadful, Sullivan-sama.”

He’s never heard of a human and a demon being together. Sure there were pacts and contracts but there were never records of the two species interacting romantically.

It just wasn’t possible.

“It’s not bound to fail,” it all depends on Alice, really. Whether he accepts Iruma in his entirety is his own choice. All they could do was guide the two and make sure that nothing went wrong. “We just have to make him used to it.” And if he was as smart as he seemed, he’d realize that Iruma was a harmless human and that there was more to him rather than just his species.

It was just something temporary for now anyway.

“I plan to ask Amaryllis if we could make any adjustments to the engagement, you see,”

Sullivan wasn’t going to put his grandson in a losing position of course.

“My engagement, grandpa?”

“Nn! It’s with Asmodeus Alice-kun. What do you think?”

“Will I get to see him again?”

“Of course, Iruma-kun—“

“Does Iruma-sama even know what the word engagement means?” Opera cut off with a frown, Sullivan flinching in nervousness and the four-year-old blinking in confusion. He really wasn’t in favor of this. “Iruma-sama, the Principal is setting you up for marriage.” And in the background, said Principal started to protest saying Nothing’s final yet! and How mean, I’m only looking after Iruma-kun’s future!

“I’ll get married to Asmodeus-kun?” a slight tilt to the left, looking up to his grandfather for confirmation.

“Exactly my point, Iruma-sama. It’s a bad idea, correct—“

“If I marry him will I get to attend another tea party and eat more sweets!?”

“You don’t have to write him a letter, Iruma-sama,”

“But grandpa’s going to visit! I can’t go since Miss Wysera’s here today…”

“You’re treating him too well. It’s better if you just ignore him,”

“Still… Help me write, Opera-san! My handwriting’s bad and I don’t know how to spell—“

Two weeks after the tea party, Asmodeus Alice was still being sulky.

He kept himself occupied inside his bedroom most of the time, opting to read books and stare at the snow globes his father gifted him after being away for long periods of time. He never knew what their function was but at least they looked pretty. Inside were figures and sculptures of places in the Netherworld he’s never been to. He would’ve loved to show them to Iruma as well but sadly, they only had enough time for the garden.

He was holding unto the promise of another tea party but was anxious since no one really came back for a second time. It was always a different demon. David tried to assure him but no one knew how to deal with this kind of Alice— sad and depressed, a little bit grumpy.

“Are you still sulking, Alice-sama?”

“I’m not sulking,” just hiding under the sheets on his bed, contemplating of course. It totally wasn’t that. David, the servants, and his mother completely got the wrong idea. “I just don’t want to go out. Mother’s having another tea party again,” yes, usually Alice hated tea parties. He did everything in his power to avoid them—play dates most especially. The last guest was an exception.

“Alice-sama,”

David sighed, wondering how he should deal with this situation.

“Like I said yesterday, we can’t send an invitation to Iruma-sama. It’s only been two weeks and you know what the proper conduct is. We have to wait at least a month before inviting him again,”

The main reason why the young master of the house was acting this way.

As if on cue, Alice sat up from the cocoon he encased himself into, glaring at the butler with all his fury. After that a pillow was thrown— a childish tantrum, before he buried himself under the sheets again. The four-year-old wasn’t really complaining but they could tell what was wrong. It was just obvious.

Alice was pestering them to send out the invite two days ago.

“How come? Mother’s already having another tea party,”

 “It’s an important meeting, Alice-sama. If you would like, you could also—“

 “No!” an immediate answer, sleeved arm rubbing against eyes. “I don’t want anyone other an Iruma-sama.”

Lately these days it’s always been about Iruma-sama when it came to Alice.

After said Iruma-sama left their house, their young master had thrown a fit— refusing to eat dinner and locking himself in his room (comforted by his mother who assured him that they’d invite Iruma again). The first few days after the tea party were frenzy. It was almost as if Alice was possessed, only cheering up when said Iruma-sama was mentioned. Apart from that, he always had this faraway look on his face.

“Lovestruck,” or so their madam, Amaryllis would say.

They thought he would get over it but then he found out that they couldn’t send an invite (with reasonable reasons of course).

Cue the crying, the servants in complete chaos after seeing their usually calm master shed tears. David dealt with it in the end, staying with Alice until he felt tired enough to sleep, all the while assuring him that yes, you’ll meet Iruma-sama again and no, Iruma-sama doesn’t hate you, he’s just busy. And for some reason Alice thought that Iruma owned Babyls (?); they don’t know where he got that idea.

“Iruma-sama doesn’t like sulky boys, Alice-chan,”

Amaryllis announced, giggling as she entered her son’s room.

“What are you doing here, mother? What about your meeting?”

Swollen eyes narrowed at his parent who faked a pout.

“Aww, I’m wounded,” David sighed again knowing that it would most likely make the boy’s mood worse. “I just finished talking to Sullivan-sama,” a statement that made Alice perk up, looking shocked and a bit mad at the same time because why didn’t you tell me mother!? “And before you say something, no, Iruma-sama wasn’t there,” which was a bit disappointing, really.

“He left you this though,”

Alice’s face brightened when she held up an envelope.

“Does that mean you’re agreeing, Sullivan-sama!?”

“In one condition…”

“Yes, yes, of course! Anything!”

“Someday, if my grandson decides that he wants to annul the engagement, allow him to do so,”

Because if there was something more important than Iruma’s safety, it was his free will.

“When he’s older… I believe that he also needs to have a choice in this,”

“Sullivan-sama agreed to the engagement, Alice-chan,”

Alice pressed his lips together envelope clenched close to his chest.

He knew about the engagement of course. His mother was gushing about it even before they had the tea party. The playdates he participated in were also for that purpose and over time he just got annoyed at how selfish other children were.

“W-What about Iruma-sama?”

David and Amaryllis tried to stifle their laughter, knowing that the boy was probably taking this seriously. True, it wasn’t a laughing matter but still… It was out of character for Alice to act this way. He definitely looked like a child, worried and excited at the same time.

“Of course, Sullivan-sama said that he talked to Iruma-sama about it,” properly answering his question, smiling brightly and contented. Iruma was a good partner for her son. If it was somebody else they wouldn’t get a reaction like this out of Alice. “He sent you a letter. It means that he most likely has something important to say.”

The four-year-old nodded, looking at the pale-blue envelope he was holding, red-crest on top.

“Isn’t that great, Alice-sama!?”

“Kukuku! Mother dearest can do anything if she puts her heart in it!”

“I-I’m so glad madam, to be honest, I was running out of ideas…”

“With this Alice-chan can eat properly now, right, David? Only love can make an Asmodeus truly happy after all~”

He couldn’t hear anything aside from his thundering heartbeat, Amaryllis talking in the background.

“—that’s why you have to try harder from now on,”

When he snapped out of his daze, his mother was sitting on his bed, patting his head and giving him a smile.

“Since you are Iruma-sama’s fiancé now, make sure that you become strong enough to protect him and make him happy, alright?”

A statement that made magenta eyes slightly glaze over, cheeks flushed before he lunged in for a hug.

“Thank you so much, mother!”

Dear Asmodeus Alice-kun,

It’s my first time writing a letter so Opera-san is helping me with it.

Sorry if my handwriting’s a bit ugly. I can’t go with grandpa because my teacher’s here so I figured I’ll write a letter instead.

I just wanted to say that I had a really great time during the last tea party! I’ve never been to one before and it turned out to be loads of fun. Thank you for helping me and showing me your mansion’s garden. The roses were very pretty and I hope to see them again with you next time!

How are you by the way? I hope you’re doing well!

Sincerely Yours,
Iruma

Opera had a malicious glint in his eye when he helped his proxy with the letter.

“If you’re going to make him fall, make him fall hard Iruma-sama. You’re going to annul the engagement when you grow up anyway,”

An evil plan.

“Alice-sama’s become very cheerful nowadays,”

One of the maids happily remarked when they saw their young master run down the halls and head towards his mother’s office. Their mansion was usually quiet aside from the occasional events at the dining room or garden; all in courtesy of Amaryllis and her social gatherings.

“Mother!” the four-year-old excitedly opened the door, forgetting to knock for once. “I need your help.”

Amaryllis looked up from her work, not particularly bothered, “Hmm? What is it Alice-chan?”

Alice headed towards her desk, placing a bunch of scented paper on the surface, his face a bit flushed and sweaty from running.

“Which paper do you think Iruma-sama would like the best!?”

Chapter Text

“Good morning, Iruma-sama,”

Opera said when he saw his proxy sit up on the bed, yawning and still slightly nodding off.

He stood by the ceiling-high windows, opening the curtains so that the light could get in, frowning a bit when he saw the snow pile up. Winters were bad in the Netherworld as usual. Today wasn’t that horrible but it could still give a fragile human a cold if not careful. The servant reminded himself to bundle up the child a bit more than usual.

“You woke up quite a bit late today,”

“Nn…”

“I’ve already prepared a bath,” slightly bending down to hold Iruma, small arms wrapping around his neck, face nuzzled against his shoulder. The gesture made him feel warm all over and even though he’s been doing the same over the past five years, he still hasn’t gotten quite used to it. He heard a giggle near his ear and his lips slightly curled up into a smile.

“Quite excited aren’t we?”

Couldn’t be helped. He himself was also quite thrilled actually.

“It’s a very special day today,”

Iruma’s fifth birthday.

A warm hand pressed against the Iruma’s back, small feet rocking back and forth.

“Iruma-kun~” the door slowly opened, the tall elder demon peeking through the gap.

“Good morning, Iruma-kun. Did you have a good sleep?” they were up till late reading storybooks and chatting.

“Grandpaaaaa,” The boy waved, extending a hand to the demon that walked towards them.

“Happy Birthday Iruma-kun~” Sullivan smiled, patting his grandson’s head. Iruma’s hair when he woke up was already a mess so messing it up further before a bad wasn’t particularly a big deal. “Let’s go present hunting together.” Something they’ve discussed a few days ago. He specially planned out their entire agenda just for this.

“Nn! Thank you, grandpa,” he pressed a soft kiss against Sullivan’s cheek who bent down; happy at the affection he was receiving.

“Happy Birthday, Iruma-sama,”

The servant greeted, smiling when the child turned to him as well.

“Gloves?”

“Check!”

“Hat?”

“Check!”

“Scarf?”

“Check!”

“Alright, you’re good to go, Iruma-sama,” Opera said, adjusting the scarf around the newly turned five-year old’s neck. The boy obediently sat still, his grandfather holding him off the ground. “Have fun with your day.” The servant tapped the boy’s newsboy cap, lowering it a bit.

“Nn!” Iruma energetically nodded; his cheeks and nose slightly flushed from the cold.

Just from that, it was already obvious how different humans and demons were. Sullivan and Opera looked completely fine under moderate snowy weather, the archdemon a bit too warm with his coat on. Iruma on the other hand was already flushed although bundled up.

“I’ll keep my hat on all the time!” a reassurance when Opera narrowed his eyes at him. “I’ll also make sure to bring Opera-san a present.”

“You don’t have to Iruma-sama,” the servant started off, shaking his head at the idea.

It didn’t look like it lessened his proxy’s motivation either way, “It’s your birthday, not mine.”

“Sullivan-sama, make sure he doesn’t run off,”

“Of course, of course!” the Principal nodded with a smile, and Opera could swear that there were flowers blooming behind him in the middle of winter. He was that excited. “It’ll be a date with just us two, Iruma-kun,” a tight hug with his grandson, spinning around under the snow.

“Please make sure to be back by five,” the cat demon monotonously reminded, slightly bowing his head as Sullivan trotted off to the carriage with Iruma in his arms. “I’ll have dinner prepared," a grand one on top of that. He'd have to make sure that everything was perfect today.

“Bye Opera-kun!”

“Bye Opera-san!”

Iruma waved from his grandfather’s shoulder with a bright cheerful smile.

Opera slightly smiled before he said, “Have a great day.”

It’s been about thirty minutes since Iruma and Sullivan arrived at the pet store in town.

“What about a hellhound?”

Iruma shook his head, looking at the puppies that swarmed his grandfather’s feet.

He was being held off the ground, too scared to touch overly energetic animals. The moment they came in the store, each and every creature seemed to call out to him. A few even escaped their enclosure, much to the staffs’ horror. The small ones most especially, jumped up and down tugging on Sullivan’s pants in hope that he’d lower the small child.

“They’re scary, grandpa,”

They had sharp teeth and he knew that they could bite. True, they were cute and lovely but Iruma had nightmares of Cerberus and that wasn’t going to be shaken off easily. It was more of a psychological thing, really.

“A sith?” the archdemon asked, noticing the red kitten that meowed at them on top of the counter. “That one looks like Opera-kun.”

Perhaps his grandson would prefer a calm companion compared to an energetic, affectionate one?

“How about snakes? Snakes are cool right, Iruma-kun?”

Boys liked cool animals of course! Surely he’d like that one? They came with different scale designs as well! Different colors even!

“Ghnn…”

Iruma shook his head, burying his face against his grandfather’s shoulder.

“And so basically you called us over this early to inflate these balloons,”

Kalego narrowed his eyes at his upperclassman who was arranging a line of banners that spelled Happy Birthday, Iruma-sama. It was quite unusual to see three high-ranking demons do such a strange, menial task but still… They weren’t even shocked since it was also like this last year. The only difference was that it was currently ten in the morning and the celebration was at five.

Isn’t it a bit too early? The servant was obviously excited.

“Correct,” Opera flatly replied, deciding that blue would be a better color for the banner compared to red. It was Iruma’s color and it’ll look good in photos. “You are quite intelligent. Get to work,” a rather empty compliment meant to comman— I mean, compliment.

Pop.

“Uh…”

Balam sweat dropped; hands empty.

“Seriously Shichirou, that’s the sixth time,”

“I’m sorry…”

“You don’t have to do that specific job, Balam-kun,” the cat demon said, tired of their materials being wasted. He said it in such a nonchalant manner as well; Balam could feel his heart slightly break. “You can just sit down. You’re not that useful with your hands like that.”

“That’s mean, Opera-san…”

Even though gloved, they were still sharp and he couldn’t tie the ends properly.

“Why couldn’t you just hire servants? You guys have plenty of money,”

Kalego’s first point as he grumbled about why they even needed balloons in the first place.

“What did you say?” Opera challenged, eyes stoic but sharp enough to make his underclassman flinch.

Kalego all of a sudden saw his years at Babyls flash through his eyes, "Iruma-sama prefers things to be done by hand.”

Are you going to half-ass this? Want me to remind you, Kalego-kun?

“Never mind,”

The teacher obediently continued his task.

“Chirp?”

Iruma tilted his head to the side, crouching in front of a small cage that housed a strange-looking blackbird.

“Chirp! Chirp!”

Blue eyes sparkled before he brightly smiled.

“What do you think of bats, Iruma-kun?” his grandfather asked, glad that the floor had been cleared. The animals were back to their cages so they could go around the store with ease. “My familiar is also a bat. You can match with grandpa!” bats were easy to command as well! They were nocturnal animals so they could guard Iruma when he slept.

“This one is a dream eater,” Sullivan pointed at a cage, knowing that it’ll help remove his grandson’s nightmares.

Nonetheless, the five-year-old already had his eye on one particular creature.

“What about this one grandpa?” Iruma asked, referring to the bird he was right in front of.

“It’s not that expensive and it’s kinda cute,” plus, it looked soft and fluffy. It seemed like it was calling out to him as well.

“A bird?” Sullivan blinked, bending down to take a closer look.

It wasn’t really a problem if his grandson wanted that. It was his birthday present anyway.

“Ah! That bird is…”

“So because the Principal brings presents almost every day there was nothing else he could buy to impress Iruma?” Kalego asked with a frown. He knew the Principal liked to spoil his grandson but to think it was to that extent… Was that even possible? “If he already ran out of ideas when Iruma’s just five how will he manage the following years?”

“Exactly,” Opera nodded, having seen this coming already. “Because of that, we limited gifts to special occasions only.”

“What difference does that even make?”

Kalego mumbled under his breath, tying the end of his 14th balloon before letting it roll on the carpeted floor.

“What gift did you two bring for Iruma-sama?” since it was his birthday and all. The boy wasn’t really the materialistic type but Opera wanted to make him feel loved. Birthdays were for presents so he made sure that Iruma looked forward to it. The smile he saw every year made all the trouble worthwhile.

“Surely you did not come here emptyhanded in such a joyous occasion,”

A threat. If you don’t have one better run off now and buy something.

“I brought one,” Balam said, referring to the box he brought in earlier. “Storybooks.”

Ones he made of course. He knew that Iruma was running out of them and since birthdays were good events to give presents, he chose that date. Truth is he’s been working on them for quite a while now. He felt satisfied knowing that someone liked them and was actually learning from them. He felt accomplished. It kind of felt like his childhood dreams became true.

“Those can hardly be considered appropriate for children,”

Kalego mumbled under his breath, knowing what the contents were like.

“What about you then Kalego-kun,” Opera asked, sharp ears picking up what the demon said.

Kalego huffed before he replied.

“Iruma likes Mythical Creatures right?”

“A…A… It’s a Zevis!”

A monster bird.

A wild monster bird that isn’t domesticated due to their harsh and unforgiving nature.

Nowadays Sullivan felt his heart race quite frequently.

“W-Why are you selling this bird here?” he turned towards the shop keeper with a horrified expression on his face.

The demon blinked, Iruma looking up at his grandfather wondering what was wrong.

“And at such a cheap price! as well”

“It’s one of the monsters NAPS rescued from Kanakiri Valley, Sullivan-sama,” the shopkeeper replied, NAPS standing for Netherworld Animal Protection Society. They valued animal companions in the Netherworld course. Monsters served as familiars for demons; officially bounded by seal or not. “There was a fire and it covered quite a bit of land. It’s an orphan now.”

And since the winds were quite harsh in that area, it spread and almost burned the entire valley.

It was a disaster. They rescued a few more actually, not just this one.

“So it doesn’t have a mama and papa?”

Iruma asked, turning to look at his grandfather with an expression that just seemed to beg Please grandpa.

“Oh no…” Sullivan mumbled under his breath.

“That’s sad,” the five-year-old said, turning towards the cage, putting his palm against it. If there was one thing Iruma was good at, it was being an empath. “Even though it’s a bird it has hands and feet, grandpa?” he hasn’t heard of that before. Didn’t they only have wings?

“Chirp?”

Said black fluffy bird edged closer towards the boy, Sullivan’s head trying to formulate excuses.

“Yes, because it has hands and feet no one wants to buy it,”

No one wants to buy it because it’s a Zevis! It’s a monster bird!

“She’s not visually appealing for her species. Many prefer bigger birds but she’s a runt so she most likely won’t grow that big,”

True. Although it was a Zevis, it was quite small for one. Monster hatchlings were usually almost as big as full-grown demons. This one… well, it was just a tad bit smaller than an owl. And owls weren’t even monsters, they were just companion animals.

“Grandpa,”

Iruma called out, hugging his grandfather’s leg and looking up at him.

“For your first pet, we should go with something that required less maintenance, Iruma-kun,”

Apparently it was a bad excuse since it looked like it just motivated the fire-year old more.

“I’ll take really, really good care of it!” Sullivan knew his grandson would do that of course. Iruma never lied so if he said something, he meant it. They allowed him to pick a pet since they knew that it’d make him more responsible. “We… We can keep it in my room!” trying to convince his grandfather as much as he could.

“I don’t think it’ll fit in your room, Iruma-kun,”

Since it’s a monster bird and all.

“Then in the backyard! Staff-san also said that it won’t grow that big!”

Silence. How should he even argue with that?

“Please, grandpa?”

A natural puppy-dog look.

Sullivan pressed his lips together, trying to be a resilient grandfather.

“Pretty please, grandpa…”

All it took was one look to those blue eyes and the archdemon sighed, folding in an instant.

(And although the monster bird’s a runt, Iruma takes care of it really, really well, so much that it grows more than the average size for its species.

Apparently, at some point it also becomes the leader of Kanakiri Valley.)

“Just so you know Iruma-sama hates Cerberus,”

Opera said, staring down at the plush toy in front of him.

“Hah—“

“It’s so bad he has nightmares of it,”

Chapter Text

“Kotori-chan,”

Iruma cooed, sitting beside his grandfather inside the carriage on their way back home. He had his scarf wrapped around the bird, coddling her like a child— a bit similar to how Opera and Sullivan treated him when he was young. He giggled all the while giving the animal soft pats on the head, ruffling and brushing out her dark fluffy feathers.

Well… admittedly it was kind of cute and Sullivan found himself taking photos but still!

Wild monster bird!

The archdemon pressed his lips into a thin line, noticing how said Kotori-chan was glaring at him every time their eyes met. The pet was only kind to her master despite the fact that he was the one who paid for her freedom. He needed a bit of credibility here! Thankfully she wasn’t violent… then again they’ve only known her for a few hours now.

“Grandpa… Grandpa!”

Sullivan was zoning out when Iruma was calling out to him.

He blinked before he hummed in reply, asking what was wrong all the while smiling at his grandson.

“Thank you for the gift,” the five-year-old said, cheeks flushed and shyly looking up at him. “It’s the best gift ever grandpa. Thank you.”

Cute.

Very very cute times ten squared to the power of eight.

Sullivan remained silent again before he sighed.

It seemed like he realized that he’s never going to be able to refuse to Iruma. At this point, if the boy asked him to buy another monster pet he might immediately oblige. He was a bit worried since it was a wild animal and it wasn’t known to be obedient but still… perhaps if they domesticate it this early it’d grow up tame? He could only hope that was the case, fingers crossed.

Monsters from the wild were very big and strong. If they wanted to they’d be able to eat Iruma.

Ahhhhh, what was he thinking about buying that thing!? Monsters were so much dangerous than demons.

“Chirp! Chirp, Chirp!”

Sullivan stared at the two who were in their own little world, Iruma with the happiest expression he’d seen in a while. Better put an obedience charm on that bird just in case. He and Opera were fine since they were demons with tons of battle experience.

Either way, Sullivan ought to die first before anything injured his dearest grandson.

Anyway, putting aside the topic of safety…

“Can…Can I have a hug as well, Iruma-kun?”

They might have a new rival for affection.

“You guys…” Kalego’s eyebrow twitched when he saw the spread on the dinner table. “You feed him way too much,” referring to the amount of food Opera prepared.

There were different dishes arranged in a pleasing manner, food he hasn’t seen before. There was meat, soup, and— was that sashimi? What stood out the most was the three-tiered cake with candles and the number five on top. Also… sweets during dinner? Before bedtime? Surely that wasn’t good.

Never mind the cake since it was a birthday but pudding and macaroons?

“When he sees that cake I’m sure he’ll eat it first,” the teacher said, amazed at how the cat demon managed to cook all of this in such a short time. “You’ll spoil his appetite. He’ll have cavities again.”

Opera scoffed at what he heard, “Clearly you have no idea of how much Iruma-sama eats.”

“Nn, Iruma-sama doesn’t have an off switch for food,” Balam nodded in agreement. “It’s strange how he never gains weight,"

“You guys aren’t worried at all? It might be a disease or something,”

He knew that Iruma ate a lot of course. It was just a bit worrying sometimes. That child ate more than adults.

It might be a human thing.

Balam and Opera glanced at each other before the servant sighed.

It’s just an Iruma thing, really.

“I didn’t expect you to be the type to get worried, Kalego-kun,”

Opera blinked when he heard the carriage arrive outside of the mansion.

He immediately dropped what he was doing, heading to the front door to welcome his masters, Kalego and Balam trailing behind him. Exactly five o’clock, just in time for dinner. They’ve finished preparing everything in the hall as well.

The servant slowly opened the door, the five-year-old walking inside with a bundle in his arms. Behind him was the Principal who was in a good mood, carrying a bunch of presents. It looked like they had a good time downtown. Iruma had a very bright smile on his face as well.

“We’re back!”

“Welcome back, Iruma-sama,” Opera greeted, leaning down to brush the snow that got on his proxy’s face and bangs. “Did you have fun—“ he paused, blinking when he saw what the boy was holding. He didn’t need to say something because Iruma must’ve known what he wanted to ask.

“My present from grandpa, Kotori-chan!”

“Chirp!”

A high pitched assist from the said animal companion.

“Kotori…chan?”

In the background, Balam was stunned, Kalego just as horrified.

“A monster!?” Balam exclaimed, wondering if he should get it away from the five-year-old or observe a little bit longer. Despite being a hatchling, a monster was still a monster. This wasn’t a pet of some sort. It was a wild animal. Those weren’t the kind one would summon as a familiar either.  “S-S-Sullivan-sama!?“ he turned to the mastermind, wondering what the explanation for this was.

“Well, they were selling it for a cheap price and Iruma-kun said that he wanted to buy it so…” a bit casual at this point, not really caring anymore. “It’s fine, isn’t it? Iruma-kun likes her a lot.”

“Selling!? Where’d you get it Principal!?”

“At the pet store,”

“They sell wild birds at the pet store!?”

Isn’t this illegal or some sort!? The only birds that were allowed to be sold were owls, parrots, crows…

They listened to the Principal explain, realizing how the story got weirder and weirder every time another detail was added. Apparently the bird was a runt and an orphan with no one wanting to buy her due to her unappealing appearance. True, if demons wanted a monster, they’d prefer a bigger one.

Kalego glanced at the five-year-old who looked nervous, most likely scared that they’d get mad.

The three of them sighed at the same time.

“Look, Iruma you—“

“Wow, what a great present from Sullivan-sama,” Opera cut off with a flat tone, hand pressed against Kalego’s mouth to stop him from saying anything stupid. Even Balam was silent. “Do you like it Iruma-sama?”

The boy looked a bit dazed for a moment before he hesitantly nodded.

“Didn’t try to hurt you for anything?”

“No,” Iruma shook his head before he held her up. “She’s very cute and kind, see?”

“Chirp!”

Never seen a bird with arms and legs before but… okay.

From behind the five-year-old, Sullivan laughed.

“Amazing, isn’t he?”

Balam was rarely amazed by anything. He had an extensive amount of knowledge, perhaps so much more than most demons. Even though that was the case, for some reason he found himself learning a bunch of new things every single day. He didn’t know if it was a human thing or an Iruma thing since he had no basis but still…

“Not even a bit fazed or scared,”

At that age, most children would run away. At that age, he would run away. He was sure that Kalego, Opera, or Sullivan would do the same as well. Demons at that age were very dependent on their parents, convinced that monsters were out to hurt them. Sure, there were many brave and courageous children out there but demons were prideful since birth.

They’d never take pity for something like a monster. Monsters were out there to be slain.

Iruma on the other hand…

“What’s her name again, Iruma-sama?” Balam asked, walking towards the five-year-old to take a closer look at the bird. Sullivan said that it was a runt. Indeed, it was quite small. It had black fluffy feathers (?) he wasn’t sure, and round eyes, a bit too peculiar for a bird type—definitely a rare one, a Zevis. “Kotori-chan was it?”

“Nn! Kotori-chan!” Iruma nodded, glad that Balam seemed to be interested.

“You two look a bit similar, Uncle Balam,”

“Make a wish now, Iruma-kun~”

Sullivan cooed, helping his grandson reach the top of the cake, Opera snapping away with a camera.

The Principal was wearing Happy Birthday glasses made out of paper, Iruma with his birthday hat on, confetti, and balloons scattered on the floor. Balam was clapping while Kalego leaned back on his seat, covering his face just in case it got included in the photo.

“What wish do I make grandpa?”

“It depends on you,” the archdemon said, making sure that Iruma’s knees don’t slip. It was that tall of a cake. Opera really went out with the three different flavored layers. “But make sure to say it out loud so that the Demon King can grant it!”

“Nn!”

It was probably Sullivan’s ploy so that he could do it himself.

“Then…” Iruma thought about it for a second before he exclaimed, “Please give me more Birthdays, Demon King-sama!”

Click.

It didn’t take long before the flames on the candles went out.

“It’s the second part for Lord Thamus!“ Iruma held up the hardbound storybook that Balam gave him as a present. It was made by the teacher himself so there was only one copy in the entire Netherworld. “It’s… It’s so cool!” he traced his fingers on the cover image, eyes sparkling in excitement, cheeks flushed and covered in icing.

Lord Thamus was an epic tale of demon-fighting various enemies. It was so long it had to be divided into various parts. There was a lot of action so course Iruma found it cool. Too cool that the first part made him too excited and he couldn’t sleep. Opera had a bit of trouble because of that.

“I’m so glad you like it, Iruma-sama,” Balam smiled, slightly sighing out of relief. “It’s not just that one.”

“There’s Karun! And Ulvoren!” the five-year-old gasped, realizing that the box had two more. “And it’s colored—“

“Chirp!” Kotori excitedly peeped from her seat on Iruma’s lap.

“Iruma-sama, please calm down,”

“T-T-This one is also colored—“

Balam happily laughed as the boy got up to give him a hug.

“And this one’s from Kalego-kun?” Sullivan asked, holding up a rather big plush toy. There was a ribbon around its neck and now that he looked at it clearly it’s…“Ah, it’s Cerberus oh no—“

Anyone could tell what it was because it was a three-headed dog.

“Ghhnn…” The teacher groaned, shaking his head and leaning back his seat.

Everyone spare him the misery, please.

“Uncle Kalego gave me a present?”

“Yes he did, Iruma-kun,” Sullivan noticed how swiftly his grandson looked back, searching for said gift. “This one, see?” he held up the present, handing it to the five-year-old who walked towards him.

The boy blinked, looking at it for a few seconds.

“Cer… berus,” it was almost as big as Iruma and it was soft, he could barely wrap his arms around it. He looked hesitant for a moment but definitely not scared. He seemed quite surprised actually. “Uncle Kalego?” the dazed expression on his face brightened, realization sinking in.

“Look, if you don’t like it then—“

“You gave me a gift!”

Four demons blinked at the same time.

“Thank you! I love it!” a slight jump, blue eyes sparkling in excitement. “I love it!” repeated twice to emphasize how much he adored it, staggering to carry the toy with how huge it was.

Iruma looked at the teacher with irises glazed over with bliss, face extremely happy.

Sullivan blinked, tilting his head to the side in confusion. Balam looked pleased that the child liked the gift while Opera… Opera…

“Even though it’s Cerberus?” the servant asked, trying to understand what was happening. If you looked closer you’d see that his ears were slightly twitching, an indication that he was slightly irked. “Iruma-sama, you hate Cerberus.”

He had nightmares of it from reading too much ancient lore.

“I don’t hate Cerberus,” he just found it scary, that’s all.

“And it’s my first big gift from Uncle Kalego!”

Usually, he’d just get candy and stuff like that from him so this was an achievement!

An achievement he says!

“I love it!” spoken with such enthusiasm and delight, repeated thrice.

“Must be nice… being liked that much by Iruma-kun,”

“I know right, Sullivan-sama,”

A bit bitter, really.

The two guardians had quite a bit of trouble deciding what present to get.

“Even though it’s such a bad gift,”

“Hey!”

“Does that mean Uncle Kalego likes me now?”

Iruma asked, leaning over the table to get closer to the teacher. He felt glad that he was given a gift, from Kalego most especially. He would’ve hugged him if he could but he knew that the other didn’t like it and would most likely refuse.

“You’ve got it all wrong,” Kalego said, narrowing his eyes at the child. “I will only give you a gift once every ten years. Be grateful.”

Demons don’t even celebrate birthdays that much. It’d be a pain to celebrate it every year with how long they lived.

Some lived so long that they’ve forgotten it already.

“Nn! I’m very, very grateful!” Iruma nodded, happily smiling. “Thank you, Uncle Kalego!”

Kalego stared, a bit tempted to extend his hand and pat the five-year old’s head.

“You’re welcome,” he huffed, usual unbothered expression returning back on his face.

“That’s a cute hair tie you have, Iruma-sama,”

Iruma’s piano teacher, Miss Wysera said after her student had taken his seat in front of the piano.

“Thank you,” the five-year-old said, glancing at Opera who was there to observe as usual.

His hair had gotten quite long enough to be tied back.

It was the cat demon who did it for him though since he was still too clumsy to do it by himself.

“It was a gift,” before he smiled, his teacher greeting him a belated Happy Birthday.

Now he matched with Opera.

Click. Click.

Alice blinked, about to go out of his room when he heard a sound from the window. It was a bird, quite a strange one on top of that. It had small arms and legs which freaked him out a bit. It was also covered in black fur, black feathers, black fluff, he didn’t know. Truth to be told, he was tempted to call for David when he realized that it’s been staring at him for quite a while now.

An intelligent being, yes, definitely too intelligent for a bird. Those round blank eyes just told him so.

“Uhh…” he looked around his room, trying to figure out something.

Click. Click.

Alice flinched when it tapped on the glass again.

He fell on his bed, gulping and terrified before he realized that it was carrying something; a small bag with a piece of paper peeking out. Perhaps it was a messenger? It didn’t have a beak so attaching a light carrier was understandable. Then again, who would send—

“I… Iruma-sama?”

“Chirp!”

Upon seeing the animal’s reaction, Alice immediately got on his feet and walked towards the window.

Dear Asmodeus Alice-kun,

Sorry for the late reply, Asmodeus-kun. It was snowing so I felt bad asking Opera-san or grandpa to deliver the letter.

Anyway, meet Kotori-chan! She’s my animal companion. We brought her from a pet store downtown and she’s my present from grandpa since it was my birthday last month. Opera-san told me that birds could be trained so over the past three weeks we tried to train her. She’s extremely intelligent so she’s currently learning how to deliver things. I hope she arrives in the right place.

This is her first mission by the way! Please do give a reply when you receive this letter. It’ll mean that she passed her test! She’ll be waiting until you finish writing so hopefully she wouldn’t cause you any trouble.

If this is successful then we’d be able to write more letters, right, Asmodeus-kun? I’ll look forward to it!

Sincerely Yours,
Iruma

“Birth… day…”

Alice stared at the piece of paper he was holding, hands shaking, and brain short-circuiting.

Rather than the bird, there was one thing he was more concerned about.

“Chirp!”

“Birthday…”

He… He missed Iruma-sama’s birthday?

Chapter Text

“Mother!”

Alice exclaimed under the sheets he had buried himself unto. He sounded betrayed and scandalized albeit a bit exaggerated, unfitting for a five-year-old but still… Anyone would surely feel the same if their fiancé was invited to their abode without their prior knowledge. He felt unprepared. He’d just embarrass himself at this state. He was still dressed in his pajamas and… and… and Iruma-sama was downstairs waiting for him!

“Mother, how could you do this to me!?” a sob, large crocodile tears escaping his eyes.

Amaryllis sighed, arms crossed above her chest. Her son had been quite dramatic this past week. Alice refused to eat and would only do so if he was extremely hungry. Then again, on that particular instance, he wouldn’t even eat much so everyone was quite worried. He had locked himself in his room bundled up on his bed, only getting out whenever the messenger bird arrived.

True, as succubi and incubi the Asmodeus family members were quite dependent on the element which is love itself. Amaryllis was sure, 100% guaranteed— her son was suffering a mild case of love sickness.

“I’m sorry, Alice-chan,” she shook her head and sighed, one hand cupping her blushed cheek. “I warned you didn’t I?”

It wasn’t like she hasn’t mentioned this before. They’ve talked about it actually but the boy was convinced that his mother wouldn’t go such lengths. There was no way Sullivan-sama and Iruma-sama were going to go out of their way for something so trivial. Alice had been adamant, refusing to go out of bed and remaining gloomy all day long. It was the only solution she could think of.

“But still!” a complaint, sheets bundling up tighter. “I… I can’t see Iruma-sama in this state.”

He hasn’t brushed his hair and the last time he has taken a bath was last night. He was in his pajamas, he had tears running down his eyes and he was unpresentable. If Iruma saw him right now he’d be better off digging a ditch and burying himself in it. It would be humiliating in his behalf.

He wasn’t fit to be seen in any way and Iruma-sama deserved someone that is—

“Or so he said Iruma-sama.”

“Huh—“

“Asmodeus-kun doesn’t want to see me?”

A soft gentle voice sounding a bit sad and disappointed.

Magenta eyes widened before he sat up on his bed and got out of his cocoon exclaiming, “That’s not it, Iruma-sama!”

Iruma blinked, Alice’s entire face flushing when they made eye contact.

“Ohh look,” Amaryllis sounded ecstatic about what was happening, hands clasped together in bliss. It looked like their plan worked. She didn’t even have to convince her son to show his face. He just did it by himself! Bringing said fiancé here was definitely a cheat method since it worked wonders. “He finally came out of his cocoon, David!”

The butler looked pleased, nodding at his master before saying, “Indeed, it was a good plan, Madam.”

He then turned to their visitor who looked up at him due to their height difference.

“Has Iruma-sama had lunch yet?”

“Nn… Not yet, butler-san…”

David remained silent for a moment before continuing, “Alice-sama had also missed lunch. I’ll be good if you could keep him company for a while.”

“I will! I will!” the five-year-old replied, holding up the box of macaroons he’s brought with him. They couldn’t just go to the Asmodeus estate empty-handed after all. “Let’s eat together, Asmodeus-kun!” a lively smile directed towards the other, Alice fumbling on his words.

“Very well, I’ll go bring lunch in a moment,” David smiled, Amaryllis nodding along with him. “I don’t think just sweets would be enough, Iruma-sama,” a statement that made the boy’s face brighten because more food. Opera as well didn’t like it if he had sweets as his main for lunch.

And as if on cue, Alice’s stomach growled, the side effect of not eating breakfast today.

Iruma tilted his head to the side while his betrothed sunk back in on his bed, face incredibly red.

“Will they be fine, Sullivan-sama?”

“Alice is a good boy,”

Truth to be told the Principal wasn’t worried.

The invite might have been out of the blue but it wasn’t troublesome in any way. He quite welcomed it actually. His grandson hasn’t been able to go out of the mansion for a while now so the meeting itself was received quite well. Perhaps Opera wasn’t sure if Iruma could deal with a sad, sulky fiancé? Was that the main concern?

“The Asmodeus heir is quite peculiar,” the servant started off, remembering what happened about a week ago. “He sent Iruma-sama an apology letter worth six pages back to back. He’s quite intelligent, I can tell,” if Alice’s colorful vocabulary was of any indication, then the boy was indeed a noble, well brought up and educated.

“Iruma-sama panicked,”

“I’m sure he did,” Sullivan chuckled, taking a sip of his tea. “Kotori-chan does her job quite well, eh?”

“I’m sorry that I didn’t invite you to my birthday, Asmodeus-kun…”

Truth to be told Iruma also didn’t know that he was allowed to invite others.

“It’s not Iruma-sama’s fault!” Alice insisted, tucked unto the headboard of his bed, sheets covering his entire body and head. He had sat up nonetheless, exposing just the right amount of face to not embarrass himself any further. “It’s my fault for being such a careless fiancé! As your betrothed, I should’ve been knowledgeable about this but it slipped through my mind and I—“

Iruma watched the other elaborate, not really understanding most of what he’s saying.

“Ohh… okay!” the human’s cheeks flushed, not sure but anyway— “You’re forgiven now!”

“This! This is the problem Iruma-sama,” Alice complained looking bothered and upset. “You spoil me way too much. Despite the fact that I missed your birthday, you still treat me kindly and you don’t get mad. I feel guilty and bad—“

At some point, David had arrived and left them food on the bed before he promptly excused himself in the middle of his young master’s speech.

“But it’s really okay! I’m not sad that you missed my birthday!”

“A façade. You’re just saying that so that I’d feel better, Iruma-sama,”

What does façade even mean? It’s the first time he’s heard of such a word.

“Asmodeus-kun, it’s fine!” Iruma repeated, inching a bit closer so that he’s sitting just an arm’s length away from his bundled fiancé. He’s heard from Amaryllis just how upset the other has been. Were birthdays really that big of a deal? “We can celebrate it together next year!”

Magenta colored eyes glistened over before he reasoned out, “But I missed the very first one. The first one is the most important one!”

“You won’t miss the rest now that you know, will you?”

“And I wasn’t able to give you a present!” Alice asserted, remembering what part of it all upset him the most. This in particular was what he complained about quite frequently. His mother had told him that they could get Iruma a belated birthday present but he just found the idea ridiculous. “I should’ve been there to give you one that day!”

Birthday presents should only be for birthdays. They’d lose importance if they weren’t.

“I’m such a bad fiancé. I’m sure that Iruma-sama would find someone better—“

“Umm… Asmodeus-kun,”

“It’s not fine! Iruma-sama even had to come here because I can’t deal with this myself,”

Blue eyes narrowed watching how the other was getting all teary-eyed.

“I’m not suitable for Iruma-sama,” arms wrapped around his legs, face tucked against his knees. “Such an amazing person like you… I can’t believe you agreed to be with me—“

“Asmodeus-kun!” very rarely Iruma raised his voice. “Stop crying and sulking or I’ll get mad!”

He tried to summon his inner assertiveness, chubby cheeks all rosy and puffed up while pouting, a poor attempt on copying Opera.

“I’ll get mad… Do you want me to get mad?”

“Iruma-sama…” Alice hiccupped, raising his head to face the other. “Nn… Please get mad Iruma-sama, I have to repent.”

“Wha—“

Kind of a bit speechless that the other agreed. Who on earth wants other people to get mad!?

“I’m a failure as a fiancé…

The last straw before the fire year old huffed, arms crossed above his chest before he inched closer.

“Alright then,”

Alice blinked, looking at his fiancé whose shadow loomed over his figure.

“Move over.”

“Well, how was it, David?” Amaryllis asked, putting down her teacup when she saw the butler return from her son’s room. She was currently having tea with Sullivan, Opera standing behind the archdemon, and not sitting down due to etiquette purposes. “Did they make up now?”

“When I left Alice-sama was on the verge of crying,”

A statement that made Sullivan spit out his tea, Amaryllis doubling back to the servant with wide eyes.

“Alice-chan’s crying!?”

“Iruma-kun made someone cry!?”

Impossible.

Alice was a mature child. Much more mature than most children and she had never seen him cry ever since he was three. The boy was responsible and tough, quite similar to Iruma in a way— never complaining and asking for trivial things. Thing is, Alice wasn’t spoiled. Which is why his spoiled attitude during the past week had shocked them. They accepted it since it was a good time to coddle on him but crying!? Crying!?

That… That sounded like what a normal five-year-old would do.

“It…It seems like Alice-chan really likes Iruma-sama,” she sweatdropped, finally realizing the weight of her actions. She might as well be the one to blame for all of this. “I’m… I’m sure they’ll manage! Right, Sullivan-sama?” she turned to look at the demon who had a horrified expression on his face.

Oddly enough, it was Opera who was smirking proudly.

“Will you come out and look at me now?”

Iruma had his arms wrapped around the other’s waist, hugging him like how his grandfather and Opera would do every time he had nightmares. It made him feel better so it’d definitely work wonders for Alice. No one disliked hugs. Even Kalego who was known to be strict and mean often carried him around Babyls and gave him hugs. Balam as well, although big and a tad bit scary looking, he gave the best cuddles out of everyone he knew.

Alice let out a low grumble, complaining.

“Please?” Iruma could see that Alice’s ears were red, most likely the same color as his face right now. The punishment he was giving wasn’t really a punishment. He was trying to comfort him to be more precise. “I wanna see your face!”

It took a few moments before the Alice finally looked up, gaze shying away downwards.

“Ah! There he is!” the five-year-old beamed, grabbing the edges of the blanket that covered the demon’s face, gently tugging it a bit lower.

“There you are, Asmodeus-kun!”

“I’m really sorry for missing your birthday, Iruma-sama,”

“Nn… It’s fine! I really don’t mind,”

Alice pressed his lips into a thin line, cheeks flushed as he watched Iruma slice through a piece of cake, the sandwiches for lunch untouched.

“Here, say ahh…”

He didn’t really need to be told twice as he opened his mouth.

“Ara, ara,”

Amaryllis blinked when she peeked through the door to check on her son and Iruma.

The sun was starting to set and it was time for the guests to go home. Beside her Sullivan was exaggeratedly crying; the handkerchief he was holding gripped to oblivion. Opera looked a tad bit annoyed, ears slumped low, eyebrows knitted together. One of these days the servant would complain and point out: see, this is what an engagement brings.

They should’ve thought things through before agreeing to this.

Now their place as number one was being threatened.

“It looks like they’ve fallen asleep,”        

David who was holding the Principal’s camera happily smiled.

Click. Click.

Alice stirred, snuggling a bit closer towards Iruma who also had his eyes shut.

“Happy Birthday, Asmodeus-kun!”

Iruma greeted a few months later, holding a blue box in his hands.

On top of it, Kotori was peacefully perched, taking her rightful place as her master’s guardian.

“Iruma-sama, you’re finally here!” his fiancé greeted, peeking through the kitchen door with a whisk in one hand, face, and apron covered in cream. He arrived a tad bit early for the party but that was always welcome. They planned on hanging out before dinner anyway. “I baked you a cake! Would you please try it for me?”

The five-year-old blinked before he laughed, “But it’s your birthday, Asmodeus-kun!”

(And in the future as well, Alice would be making more and more dishes to come.)

Chapter Text

“Iruma-kun~!”

The archdemon cooed, watching his grandson stand by the gates of Babyls’ Elementary building. Iruma who just recently turned six was about to enter first grade. The boy was wearing his uniform— blue knee-length pants and a white short-sleeved button-up top, school ribbon tied around the collar. He had a hat on his head and a backpack on his back. It was an adorable sight and Sullivan couldn’t help but commemorate said milestone.

Demons were already crowding the colosseum, present to drop off their children, and attend the opening ceremony. Those in charge of said event on the other hand…

“Look over here! Look at grandpa, Iruma-kun!”

The six-year-old flashed a smile, knowing what to do after being exposed to his grandfather’s antics after all this time. Sullivan looked pleased when he went through the photos he took, happy that Iruma was such an obedient child. Yep, he ought to get those developed later. Immediately as well so that he could spend his break time organizing photos. It had started to become a hobby actually.

Click.

“The day has finally come…”

Opera sighed, a faraway look on the cat demon’s face as the wind brushed his hair.

Quite dramatic actually.

Click. Click.

“You guys are acting like it’s the apocalypse,” Kalego pointed out, arms crossed in front of his chest as he shook his head. First-grade students only had class from eight am to three pm. It’s just for a few hours and it wasn’t really that long. “It’s not like he’s going anywhere. He’s still in Babyls, just in a different building.”

And it’s just a ten-minute walk from the Highschool division…

“Shichirou, what are you sweating buckets for?”

Balam flinched at the remark, eyes darting into different directions, “Uhh… no… it’s nothing…” His face was flustered beneath his mask and his legs were shaking. He looked like an absolute train wreck. “Iruma-sama… Will… Will he be alright?” he whispered towards Opera who was standing next to him.

He personally applied the new fool-proof perfume to the boy this morning but he just couldn’t calm down. I mean… a human child going to a demon school!?

What level clairvoyance do they need to make this mission successful!?

“I hope so,” for once Opera didn’t sound so sure. “I packed him recess but it might not be enough.”

“That’s your main concern!?”

Kalego narrowed his eyes at the pair. Suspicious, they were really, really suspicious.

“Opera-kun! Opera-kun! Take a photo of me and Iruma-kun!”

Said servant silently obliged while Balam looked around, fretting when he saw a few teachers pass by. Apparently they were receiving a lot of looks since they’ve been hogging the entire gate for themselves for quite a while now. No one wanted to say anything since the rank level in their group was very high.

Sullivan bent down to pick up Iruma, smiling towards the camera that Opera was holding.

“Hai— Deviiiiiiii~”

“Deviiiiiiii—“

Click.

“We’ve been standing here for twenty minutes already,” deciding that someone needs to talk some sense, Kalego spoke up, impatiently tapping his foot on the ground. “The ceremony can’t start without you, Principal. Everyone’s waiting for you,” referring to how a few of the staff had been running back and forth already. Kalego sent them a pitiful look, sighing and rubbing the bridge of his nose.

He’d sacrifice himself, sure… I mean why not? He better get a raise for this.

“Stop taking photos and get on with it already. The parents are waiting,”

“Iruma-sama!”

The six-year-old would recognize that voice anywhere. Alice was sitting on one of the chairs in front, standing and waving a hand at him. Beside him was an empty chair, too much of a coincidence since there were a few students who were still up looking for seats. The guardians on the other hand remained on the sidelines along with a few teachers.

Iruma waved at Alice before he headed towards him, Opera telling him not to run in the background.

“Azu-kun!” over the past year and a half they’ve known each other, Asmodeus-kun had been shortened.

“Good morning, Iruma-sama! You look magnificent as ever!” Alice exclaimed, face lighting up now that Iruma was here. “I reserved you a seat!”

“They’re acquainted?”

Kalego asked Opera knowing that the servant would know the answer. Balam looked a bit curious as well, knowing that Iruma was the type to shy away when it came to strangers. He was glad that the boy seemed comfortable enough to sit with the crowd though.

“They met at a tea party,” the two teachers nodded, remembering the event. True, that did indeed take place a year and a half ago. “They’ve been engaged ever since,” Opera clicked his tongue, face looking oddly calm. Anyone who didn’t know better would’ve thought that nothing was wrong if it weren’t for the ears twitching on top the cat demon’s head.

“Oh, they’re engaged. Well, that’s nice…”

Balam nodded with a smile, remaining silent for a while before he did a double-take to the Opera.

Kalego looked just as baffled as well, his attention turning to the happy-go-lucky pair of six-year-olds that continued to chat without care.

“Wha— E-Engaged!?”

Before they knew it, everyone was told to rise for the school anthem.

“Wait a second—“

Iruma was engaged!?

Kalego didn’t bother singing along to the song while Balam looked like a mix between shocked, worried and terrified. Opera for some reason had his mouth tightly shut and the principal was making gestures to the sound director backstage to lessen the music’s volume. Unfortunately, said staff mistook the sign and turned it up.

“Humans only exist to be our food. Suck them dry, soul, blood, flesh, and all~!”

“Stop squirming Shichirou, it’s annoying,”

“I…Iruma-sama—“

“Tremble at the sound of black wings as we take flight. For we are demons~!”

Balam resembled the famous portrait Scream at this point.

Most of the parents knew the song, a few of the new students as well.

“As this song pours forth from our red lips. Scream for us, for we are demons~!”

Three staff members filed a complaint regarding the school anthem later that day.

“Why is he engaged to the Asmodeus heir out of all demons!?”

“The benefits were good… or so that’s what Sullivan-sama said,”

“Still… Shouldn’t you think about this more!? What if—“

“I’d stop speaking if I were you,” Opera said, raising a hand to signal at Kalego. “Amaryllis-sama is watching,"

And indeed, a few meters to their right, the thirteenth head of Lust was staring at them with a smile on her face.

“Opera-saaaaaaaan!”

For some reason, the servant wouldn’t let Iruma go. Opera’s face was nuzzled against the six-year old’s neck and he was being tightly embraced. Although hugs and kisses weren’t unusual, this one had been lasting for quite a while now. Alice was looking at them as well, patiently waiting and it made Iruma feel a bit shy being treated this way.

“Lemme go, it’s embarrassing!”

“No, there’s still three minutes before class,”

“Hurry up so we can get out of here,” Kalego complained, knowing that he still had a class to attend. Although he wasn’t a homeroom teacher he still had students to teach. The thought of them becoming happy just because he’s late makes his blood boil to extreme limits. “You’re wasting time.”

“Asmodeus-kun, please take care of my grandson, okay?”

Sullivan smiled at the Asmodeus heir who blinked and immediately saluted.

“I will, Sullivan-sama!” Alice replied, cheeks flushed, excited, and happy at the same time. He’s been waiting for this for such a long time! He only saw his fiancé once a week so this schedule made him extremely pleased. “I’ll protect Iruma-sama with my life!”

“You don’t need to risk your life—“

Cut off by Balam’s nervous chatter of, “Children… Children… So many children… Iruma-sama’s identi— heuuk!”

“I’ll pick you up later, Iruma-sama,” Opera covered the teacher’s mouth, refraining him from continuing what he was about to say. Balam looked like he was suffocating actually. It just showed how strong the cat demon was. “But if you feel sad feel free to give me a call using your phone.”

“Stop encouraging the child to misbehave,”

Followed by a long explanation of how Iruma feeling unhappy was counted as an emergency situation.

“So… when were you planning on telling us?” Kalego started off as they walked down the long hallway. The Principal remained in his office while Opera accompanied the two to the staffroom, remembering that he needed to get the new class lists finalized. “That Iruma’s engaged…”

“With the Asmodeus heir!” Balam added, horrified. There were a lot of things he wanted to ask and say but couldn’t since Kalego was around. He didn’t want to leak the secret they’ve been trying to hide for six whole years.

“It’s none of your business,”

A statement that highly offended Kalego and Balam.

“Wha— Excuse me!?“

“Rude—“

Seeing Opera carry around Iruma with that warm filter around them must have done great damage to their brain. Apparently they’ve already forgotten how mean and indifferent the cat demon was towards others. This in a way was a big wake-up call. Balam looked genuinely hurt actually while Kalego started to grumble.

None of their business… all these years they were just on-call babysitters then!?

“I did not think that it was necessary to tell you guys,” came the explanation that didn’t really make any sense. “It was Sullivan-sama’s decision to accept. It’s been going well so far.”

“Hah—“

“But Opera-san!?” Balam cut off, eyes wide open as if to emphasize something. “Iruma-sama is… is… He is sick!” He’s a human! Not from here! Foreigner! Mythical Creature! Top Secret! And you let him get engaged!? To the son of Asmodeus Amaryllis to make it worse! The demon could feel his blood pressure rise and for some reason, he started to feel dizzy. “I… I need to sit down.”

“What’s his sickness anyway,” Kalego complained, not knowing the details. He knew Iruma was sick but what sickness was it? No one bothered telling him anything. He always felt left out of the group.

Unfortunately, no one seemed to pay attention to his question as well.

“He gets along with Alice-sama,” they exchanged letters and genuinely enjoy each other’s company. Opera as well… he was quite hesitant at first but after seeing how much fun his proxy had around the Asmodeus heir, he couldn’t bring himself to say another complaint. “Isn’t it necessary to have peers his age?”

Also, it was Kalego’s suggestion in the first place—for Iruma to find acquaintances that is.

“Tsk…” the teacher clicked his tongue.

“I was also against it in the beginning. I still am but the Principal will not listen to whatever I say and—“

Nonetheless, everything was clarified in the end.

Class 1-Wrath was asked to introduce themselves one by one.

“Asmodeus Alice,”

Iruma could see that a few of his classmates were curious. Alice was charismatic after all.

He tilted his head to the side, wondering why the other was acting cold and reserved. Maybe Alice didn’t like talking in front of a lot of people? There were twenty students in their class and their homeroom teacher looked excited when it was finally the Asmodeus heir’s turn to speak. They were told to say their name as well as their likes and dislikes.

“There are only a handful of things I dislike,” sounding rather irritated with other demons prying. “As for the things I like uhm…”

Magenta eyes shyly glanced to the side, cheeks flushed.

“My magnificent fiancé, Iruma-sama!”

Said six-year-old blinked, noticing the jealous stares he was receiving from the girls.

“Who’s that?”

“Listen up, Alice,”

Amaryllis started off, hands on her hips.

“The moment you enter that classroom it’ll be war!”

The six-year-old gulped, looking up at his mother who looked pretty determined. He as well was quite resolute when it came to this. It involved Iruma after all.

“You’re an Asmodeus. You’re going to protect your mate, aren’t you?”

Drarry gulped, awkwardly smiling when he saw that it was Iruma’s turn.

He knew who the boy was since he’s been assigned as an assistant to one of the Highschool teachers last year. Iruma was the Principal’s esteemed grandson. The child had practically been raised in this school his entire life. It was also no secret that he had three fearsome guardians— Opera, Balam, and Kalego. I mean… just how? Those demons weren’t exactly approachable more or less maternal.

Rumor has it that the boy’s name had spread throughout the entire Netherworld. Just like Alice, they had pretty high expectations when it came to him. To think that those were actually engaged…

“Umm…”

Big blue eyes. Two big blue, panicked eyes.

If only the other students would stop staring so much. They weren’t this silent during others’ introduction before. Alice fumed on his seat glaring at anyone who frowned at his fiancé.

“Go ahead! You can start, Iruma-kun!”

“Nn!” the six-year-old nodded, cheeks flushed as he started to speak. “My name is… Iruma?”

“You’re not sure?” one of the male students chuckled.

“What did you say—“

Drarry sweatdropped when Alice immediately stood on his seat ready to pick a fight. If it weren’t for Iruma telling him to sit down and tugging at his arms, he wouldn’t have settled back on his chair. He sent the demon a glare, daring him to speak again before he huffed, turning the other cheek and smiled at Iruma who was standing up.

It must have terrified the other students since no one said a thing after that.

“I like reading! And books and animals! My favorite animal is a bird and I also like to eat!” Iruma announced, gaining a bit of favor from the others. He didn’t seem that scary and that was a plus! Everyone liked approachable classmates. “As for my dislikes umm… I don’t like evil demons!”

Nod. Nod.

Acceptable. Most children at this age would usually idolize criminals – call it demonic instinct of some sort. Many rebelled early and caused a lot of trouble. A few looked at Iruma in awe, amazed that he had such a strong sense of justice. As expected of Sullivan’s grandson…

“I prefer heroes over villains! I think they’re so much cooler! I mean, villains are also cool and they have their reasons but—“

There should have been a weepy violin playing in the corner. There should have been a swell of sad music. There should’ve been some tragic figure in the death throes. That was how empathetic Iruma was. He continued to sympathize with criminals that at some point his classmates had lost track of what he was talking about. It was quite depressing actually.

By the end of it all Alice was the only one whose eyes shone with excitement praising, “As expected of Iruma-sama!”

Respect was gained that day.

“Seat plans!?”

Alice’s first hurdle had appeared.

Everyone looked at him with curious looks on their faces wondering why he stood up all of a sudden, “How can I protect Iruma-sama if my seat so far away!?” He turned towards their homeroom teacher, not liking the idea of drawing lots. He found it absurd and totally unnecessary. “Drarry-sensei!”

“It’s just for a simple activity, Asmodeus-kun…”

“Still! Shouldn’t we be allowed to sit down next to who we prefer?“

“A troublesome one has appeared…”

Drarry sweatdropped, wondering how he should react to this. He was aware that Iruma was going to be in his class and he looked forward to Alice but he didn’t expect his personality to be like this. How should he put it? Wasn’t the boy kind of… overprotective?

Ah, must be because Iruma was his fiancé and he had a frail health.

Nod. Nod.

“Don’t worry, Alice-kun! Let’s get acquainted with each other—“ some kind of extra just had to say.

“Do not refer to me in such an overly familiar manner!” came the swift, cold-hearted reply from Alice. The girl flinched before everything became even more dramatic. At some point, one of the girls had started to cry. “Even Iruma-sama hasn’t… hasn’t…” small hands trembled against the desk, head looking down.

He then turned towards Iruma who was seated on the other side of the room with teary eyes.

“Iruma-samaaaaaaaa!”

Alice succeeded in convincing Drarry.

“What a bunch of simpletons,” Alice huffed at his noisy classmates before flashing the brightest smile he could muster towards his fiancé. They were tucked against the corner of the room near the windows, sitting on the floor. Other students were just running around and sleeping anyway. They themselves wanted to do this task properly at least. “Is a simple activity like drawing really worth this much whining?”

“Don’t you think they’re annoying, Iruma-sama?”

“Nuh-uh. It’s kind of fun, Azu-kun!”

The six-year-old pressed his lips into a thin line, a bit flustered due to Iruma’s smile.

“It’s just the first day. Grandpa told me that it’ll be more fun once we get closer to others,” and his grandfather was rarely wrong. Sullivan gave the best advice and words of encouragement due to his age. “Is Azu-kun scared of others?”

“I’m not! It’s just that… I’m fine with just Iruma-sama…” he’d highly prefer if they both just took private classes actually. Then again, school was an essential part of a demon’s growth and they had to attend class. What he didn’t like were his childish classmates. “To think that I’d be able to spend this much time with you… It makes me happy Iruma-sama!”

Blue eyes blinked at Alice whose cheeks and ears were flushed.

“That’s good,” Iruma grinned before he held up his pencil vertically against the other’s face, one eye squinted.

“Now don’t move since I have to finish drawing your portrait!”

Iruma blinked, noticing the commotion that was going on the playground.

“What’s that, Azu-kun?” he asked, pointing towards the small crowd of third-grade students.

Someone was on the ground, shards on the floor, wounded hands grasping on a bent eyeglass frame.

Alice narrowed his eyes at the scene before he scowled, “It’s better not to involve yourself with that, Iruma-sama. Mother warned me about them.”

About Bullies to be more exact.

“They prey on the weak—“

Iruma watched as a turquoise light emerged, barriers showing up to protect its caster.

Bloodline magic.

“They’re a pitiful excuse for a demon, or so she said,”

And Alice continued to push Iruma’s swing from the back.

Chapter Text

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH—“

The mandrake which was uprooted made a loud scream, class 1-A covering their ears at the shrill sound. It’s a good thing that Babyls’ garden is enclosed inside a greenhouse or else it would’ve disturbed the ongoing classes in the other buildings. It was that loud. The students cringed and cried, Drarry panicking and reflexively closing his eyes. Even he did not expect mandrakes to be this strong. The demon plant continued to scream even when it was settled unto the ground, students covering their ears and a few in a crouching position on the floor.

“Drarry-sensei, make it stop!”

“My ears hurt!”

“Mamaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

“Why is it so fucking loud!?”

Amidst the chaos another concern was added unto the homeroom teacher’s list, “Who was it!? Who cursed!?”

“Iruma-sama, please hide behind my back!” Alice announced, one-eye closed and trying to endure. Hiding behind someone’s back won’t really stop the sound but still, protection was still protection! He’d even gladly lend his hands to the other to cover his ears and – “I shall protect you from… Iruma-sama? Iruma-sama!?”

The Asmodeus heir looked back, terrified when he realized that his fiancé was nowhere to be found.

Plop.

Someone gasps. The sound then stops.

“You have to cut the Mandrake’s stem so that it stops screaming, sensei,” Iruma who had unknowingly made his way towards the plant’s side explained, one hand holding gardening shears. In front of him, the Mandrake lied dead, its face stiff since it passed away in the middle of a scream. “It’s better to cut off the top before pulling them out. It won’t be loud that way.”

“A-Ah yes…” Drarry sweatdropped, looking around and sighing in relief when he realized that all of his students seemed to be alright. A few were still complaining but they were far from being injured. “You seem to know a lot about plants, Iruma-kun. You’re not scared?”

“Nuh-uh. Balam-sensei and Stolas-sensei taught me,”

Those two are the best in the Netherworld… Of course…

“Ahh… Balam-senpai and Stolas-sensei, huh? No wonder, phew,”

“He’s so cool…” a female classmate says in awe, hands tightly clenched together.

That seemed to be the cue for Alice because he immediately snaps out of his daze and shouts,

“Will you please stop ogling on someone who already has a fiancé!?“

“Iruma-kun ~” Sullivan shyly peeked his head through the door of his only grandchild’s room. He’s been waiting for quite a while now. It’s the third time he’s asked the same question during the last hour and a half, patiently distracting himself by pacing back and forth down the hallway or doing something else. He didn’t really have any hobbies aside from spending time with his beloved grandson. “Will you talk to grandpa now, Iruma-kun?”

“I’m still doing an assignment, grandpa,”

“That’s what you also said an hour and a half ago!”

Iruma awkwardly laughed, scratching his cheek while explaining that his current assignment was difficult and that he was stuck. It was an essay and he wanted to make sure that all the details he wrote were correct – although, yes, it was a personal essay. Sullivan even offered maybe grandpa can help you with that? but the child declined saying that would be like cheating since he knew that the other would do everything for him anyway.

“I… I shouldn’t have let you go to school,” the elder sobbed, six-year-old looking a bit apologetic.

Five to six was always spent with grandpa, you see? The Principal frequently tried to go home early since that was their so-called bonding time, or so he would say. Now that Iruma was a first-grader he’s gotten much busier with his homework and studying.

“Whose assignment is that? Why do they give first-graders so much work!? Grandpa will – “ from behind you could hear Opera say you mustn't be so hasty, Sullivan-sama in the middle of the arch demon’s sentence. “— file a case!”

“Assignments are a normal part of a student’s life, Principal,”

Opera reasons out, too used to this kind of scenario happening. He’s seen this coming from miles away, actually. Sullivan was always kind of grumpy and weepy every time his schedule with his grandson was interrupted. Many meetings were canceled in the same way. Even the Babel council didn’t stand a chance. He doted on him that much.

“Still!”

“That’s what normal students do, Principal,”

Sullivan then turned towards the servant and started to fuss, “I haven’t seen Iruma-kun all day and ever since he arrived from school he’s been stuck studying and doing homework!”

“Isn’t it good that he’s diligent?”

“Too diligent,” the demon complained as he shook his head. It would be better if Iruma didn’t have that much sense of responsibility. Where did he get that anyway? From Opera maybe? Sure enough, he didn’t get it his easy-going and carefree grandfather. There was too much of a gap. “My grandson is too diligent.”

“Please rebel a bit Iruma-kun!” he whispered towards the focused six-year-old on the desk.

“The last time he said no you were depressed for days, Principal,”

( And in the future one could only guess how they would react upon experiencing the boy’s evil cycle. )

Alice is extremely popular.

“Don’t touch me!”

The Asmodeus heir shivered as he tried to remove the brunette that was clinging unto him. Drarry was in the middle trying to resolve the issue while Iruma sat on his seat, juice box in one hand as he watched the scene unfold. Alice, contrary to popular expectation, did not have a lot of friends. It was most likely due to the fact that he and Iruma were kept to themselves but many tried to befriend him nonetheless. Anyone could understand. The boy was good-looking and smart, very charismatic as well.

Females most especially tried to get close and six-year-olds don’t really understand personal space.

“Mine!” she declared, cheek pressed against Alice’s arm.

“Thea, we don’t own people – “

“But he’s beauuuuutiful!”

Said Thea dreamily sighed and Drarry groaned at the reply he received.

“Sorry, Asmodeus-kun,” the teacher started off, rubbing the bridge of his nose, feeling an upcoming headache arrive. The boy scowled at the girl but there wasn’t really much he could do.  It wasn’t like he could use his flames to make her go away as well. He was still practicing and that would be too dangerous. “She’s uhh… part werewolf.”

“It’s Asmodeus again!?”

The boys complain and grumble but at this point, they’ve gotten too used to even get jealous.

The first time Opera and Sullivan get into a heated argument it’s about who’s going to attend Iruma’s PTA meeting.

“You have work to do, Sullivan-sama,”

The servant reasoned out, standing near the window while the elder demon was sitting on his desk. Truth is that he wants to be the one who attends. It’s the first PTA meeting after all. It’ll be a pleasure to represent the boy’s guardian. Actually, isn’t that his role? His task is looking after Iruma and making sure that he’s well. Something as trivial as this should be left to him. He goes on a long rant of I am but a servant, please leave it to me as he tries to convince the other.

“I will take the day off,” the archdemon looked resolute, more than ready to enter a battlefield if necessary. He thinks that it’s one of his responsibilities as a grandfather. He’s been waiting for this very day to come. His suit is ironed – by Opera –, shoes polished – also by Opera – and he’s ready to go. “I will attend as Iruma-kun’s guardian.”

“You can’t take the day off, Principal. You have an important meeting,”

Sparks – not romantic but opposing ones – started to fly after that.

“Why do I have to give this to sensei, grandpa?”

Iruma tilted his head to the side, a bit confused as to why he was given an envelope all of a sudden. Inside it was his medical certificate – one he didn’t go to the hospital for – which had a diagnosis as well as a letter signed by the Headmaster himself. They’ve already given the others one and they’ve become informed but this, in particular, needs to be personally given by Iruma since their flight activity was tomorrow.

It’s for him to be excused.

“It’s so that he can exempt you from the activity, Iruma-kun,”

“Activity?”

“Your grandfather means the flight activity, Iruma-sama,” Opera started to explain per usual, bending down to fix his proxy’s clothes. Beside them, a few six-year-olds ran past heading towards the classrooms. Opera and Sullivan, just like every day, we're also seeing the boy off before he went to class. “Drarry is supposed to conduct that class tomorrow. Make sure to give him that today, alright?”

“Oh…” Iruma owlishly blinked before he nodded, obedient as ever. “Okay.”

Opera slightly smiled, ruffling his hair before a question popped up inside the six-year old’s head due to typical child curiosity.

“Is it to exempt me because I’m sick?”

The child, at this point, is well aware that he’s not the same as others – at least physical and health-wise. His grandfather always emphasized how he had a frail body and how he shouldn’t overwork himself. Opera as well, the servant would go bounds to bundle him during cold days. Rain most especially, during those rare instances, seemed like a very big crisis. Alice was also informed about it since he’s heard from his mother and had personally seen Iruma sick. Even he thought it was serious. No one got ill in the Netherworld once a year after all – that was too frequent.

Opera remained silent for a while before he nodded, “As expected of Iruma-sama. Very sharp indeed.”

“When I get better can I also attend Drarry-sensei’s flight class then?”

The servant sent his master a glance and Sullivan opened his mouth to reply but the bell had already rung by then.

Iruma bid his goodbyes and rushed to class.

“When are you planning to tell him?” Balam asked, noticing the cat demon’s distress. It was easy to see with how much those ears irritably twitched. As he expected, it was about Iruma. No one other than the boy would make the stoic Opera react like that. After hearing what happened, he as well started to get fretful and nervous. “He’s intelligent so of course he’ll catch on. It’s pretty easy to spot the differences.”

“When he’s older,” is the reply that he gets. “We’ll tell him when he’s older.”

“You also said that last time,”

This wasn’t the first time they discussed this topic. It was easy to hide when the boy was still a baby but now that he had slightly grown-up, it’s gotten much more difficult. It wasn’t like they could keep him inside the mansion forever as well. Rather than getting him tutors, if they wanted the boy to live a normal life, he needed to go through a normal lifestyle. School-related things and others finding out would be easy to deal with. Sullivan was the Headmaster – not to mention one of the Three Heroes – and Opera monitored frequently enough. Balam was also more than happy to help out.

What they don’t particularly know is the right timing is to tell the boy himself.

“Be more specific, Opera-senpai,”

The assistant simply remained silent and Balam sighed after a moment had passed.

Unsurprisingly, Sullivan is the one who answered the question, “When he turns ten, Balam-kun.”

Opera doesn’t look up from the files he’s organizing.

“We’ll tell him when he turns ten,”

Iruma blinked when he saw Alice settle down on the seat next to him. Besides the flying ground, there’s a small bench where the teachers sit to supervise. Currently, they’re seating on those seats while their class was out on the field listening to whatever their homeroom teacher had to say. It was most likely about their activity for today. Many demons already know how to fly since they learn at home but in order to lessen reckless fliers and accidents, proper rules and protocols are formally taught in school.

Contrary to what one expects, there’s quite a bit of traffic in the sky sometimes.

“Won’t sensei get mad if you sit out, Azu-kun?” he voices out his main concern, worried for the other.

“It’s alright, Iruma-sama,” Alice assured like he’s sure he’s not going to get scolded. Rather than that, it’s more like he’s prepared to get reprimanded for doing this. “I prefer keeping you company!”

Seeing the other sit out alone made him rather concerned actually. He didn’t want to have fun while Iruma was simply watching them from afar. Also, he was confident that he knew the rules already. If he didn’t then he could also learn at a later time. He thought that it’d be rude of him to leave the other alone. He sided more to Iruma rather than some activity.

“Asmodeus-kun!”

A few of their classmates as well as Drarry called out from afar.

Iruma who noticed, turned towards their direction while Alice frowned displeased, “Sensei is calling for you Azu-kun.”

Nevertheless, the other was resolute, frowning, and glued to his seat as he shook his head.

“Azu-kun…” the six-year-old started, realizing that Alice had no intention to move.

“I want to sit with you, Iruma-sama,”

“You might get a failing grade, you know. I have an excuse letter so I’m exempted,”

Truth to be told, Alice didn’t feel better even after hearing that.

“Asmodeus-kun!”

Drarry repeated from afar looking rather restless. The students were already lining up, most of them also calling out for their classmates to join them. They flew on a regular basis but this would be the first time they’d be with their friends at school so they were rather excited.

“You want to fly, don’t you? Azu-kun?”

Everyone said that its fun and Iruma could already see the other squirming in his seat, hesitant.

“Will you really be fine alone, Iruma-sama?”

“Of course! I’ll just be seating here!”

Alice remained silent for a second before he nodded and stood up his seat, “I’ll… I’ll be back soon, Iruma-sama!”

“Nn! Have fun, Azu-kun!”

Iruma waved a hand towards the other’s retreating back.

“Iruma-kun is always sitting out, isn’t he?”

It’s not just the flight lessons. It’s also during physical exams, wing races, and the rare swim classes they’re given. Anything physical the boy seemed to sit out on because most of those involved the usage or exposure of wings. Demons don’t really walk nor run – they fly. That was the norm. Many of his classmates found it unfair, females most especially since a few also don’t like to participate in some events. Six-year-old demons by nature are easily jealous. It also didn’t help how they didn’t know what disease the other had.

“He’s sick,” one of the boys said, remembering what Drarry answered last time they asked. “That’s what sensei said.”

“He doesn’t look sick though? He looks fine!”

“Of course he’s sick, stupid! Drarry-sensei said it himself!”

“Aren’t noble demons supposed to be strong though?” a girl asked, noticing their classmate who was sitting on the sidelines. It’s already been a few months and they haven’t really seen the other do anything special. If there was someone who looked like a noble demon it would be Alice. True, Iruma was smart but other than that he was pretty soft, quite weak-willed for a demon actually. “He doesn’t look strong.”

“He looks like he’ll lose in a fight,”

Which makes a few laugh out loud and nod their head.

“His grandfather is Sullivan-sama, you know!” another defends, remembering the boy’s origins since they’ve stepped on the topic regarding battles – which was mostly done by magic, everyone knew that. They also knew that the Three Heroes – which the Headmaster was a part of – were the best in the Netherworld. “Since he’s his grandson his bloodline magic must be really, really strong.”

That much was basic. It was prejudice but it was a fact. There were strong and weak bloodlines.

“Still sick. He should’ve stayed at home if he isn’t going to do anything,”

Alice who was silently standing next to them flinched before he glared. He’s been listening for quite a while now but decided to remain silent, curious as to what these demons have to say. Usually, he’d be jumping at the moment Iruma’s mentioned but this was different. A few students sweatdropped, nervous while the boy continued to speak, unaware of the look that was directed at him. Anyone would be offended if their betrothed was discussed in such a manner. It had been a bad decision right from the start.

“I bet I can beat him in a fight,”

And then Drarry stepped in, clapping his hands and telling his students that their activity would resume.

Chapter Text

Alice frowned as he eyed the glove on the floor, protectively standing in front of Iruma. Their classmate and two other boys stood right in front of them, confident smiles on their faces. They don’t seem to care much. It looked like they liked the attention as well because unlike Iruma who was nervously glancing around due to the stares they were receiving, they seem to proudly bask in it like they’re heroes or something. They were in the middle of the playground with no teacher around, students curiously watching and whispering to each other. Recess had always been peaceful as well but Alice who heard this boy’s prior declaration of I bet I can beat him in a fight knew better.

“You’re stupid,” the words slip of out his mouth. His mother always reminded him to be formal, to not insult other individuals but he really couldn’t help it now. He’d just have to apologize to her later. “First-grade students are not allowed to joust.”

The three flinched because this was the Asmodeus Alice. They might think Iruma’s weak but Alice is not.

“What do you think you’re doing?”

He glared at them and someone takes a step back most likely reconsidering.

Alice blinked when he felt a hand grip his arm and he looked back only to see his fiancé looking all worried, “Don’t worry about it, Iruma-sama. They are simply being unreasonable. We have no time for demons like them, yes?” He gave him his usual smile, turning around to push the other’s back so that they could retreat. “Go on now, why don’t we head to the cafeteria? They sell cakes on Fridays!”

Iruma must have thought that the glove was for Alice. Alice would like him to think that way as well. It’ll be easier that way and more convenient. Those guys who tried to pick a fight would also be embarrassed after getting ignored. Typical bullies, per say.

“Iruma!”

The Asmodeus heir freezes on his place when he heard a voice call out from behind.

Iruma whose name was called couldn’t help but look back as well.

“Iruma, I challenge you to a fight! Fight me right here, right now!”

Since it’s Iruma who had been given the invitation, Alice wouldn’t be able to step in. It’s the other’s decision, not his. According to noble traditions, no one is allowed to interfere or refuse a declaration on another demon’s behalf. That would be rude, quite impolite, and ill-mannered as well. Alice was rather traditional and gallant so surely he’d follow that rule.

Or so that’s what they seemed to think.

“And what would happen if Iruma-sama refuses?”

“Then he’d seem like a coward!”

Followed by a that’s right! from the boy’s allies in the background. They don’t seem that convinced though. A bunch of hushed whispers was heard from around them and someone had already run to call the teachers. All of a sudden the temperature seemed to rise and Iruma anxiously watched; Alice’s magic leaking out. There was no fire – at least for now – and it was more of a heatwave.

Everyone could still feel an Asmodeus’ intensity nonetheless.

Alice’s smile faltered as he walked towards the boy.

“W-What? I wasn’t picking a fight with you!”

He then clenched his fist and swung forward.

That is how his first school fight went.

Amaryllis’ heels clicked as she walked down the long hallways of Babyls.

She was appropriately dressed for the occasion, all black with a lot of lace. Her fan was also black, cat-like shades on the bridge of her nose. It looked like she was going in dressed for a funeral but no — it’s her son’s disciplinary meeting. She had been waiting for this very moment for the last six years and as David held the door open, she forced a sob while running gracefully exclaiming Alice-chan! Diamond-like tears defied gravity, dramatically floating in the air and she extended her arms embracing her only child.

Alice in response groaned, flushing as he grumbled, “I-Iruma-sama’s here, mother!”

Just like Sullivan – who in this case is also dressed quite sharper than normal – she’s very pleased to hear that her prodigal son had caused a bit of trouble. She planned on playing a proper role nonetheless. She’d try her best to not show how pleased she is – although in this case, she’s already failing – and appropriately discipline Alice. That’s her job as a mother, you see.

David closed the door while Opera guided her to her seat, Amaryllis sniffling behind her fan.

“I beg of you, mother. Please stop,” the Asmodeus heir pleaded, embarrassed since Iruma was sitting right next to him.

Anyway, whenever elementary students get into a fight they’re usually sent to their division’s disciplinary office. There was really no need to see the Headmaster. It’s actually very, very difficult for students to get a private audience with Sullivan himself. Then again, Alice and Iruma would be oblivious to that. They are still very young. Both assume that this was most likely a basic protocol.

“I am so disappointed in you, Alice,”

Not really because she’s quite thrilled, actually.

Yocchan's — the name of the said offender — parents sweat, nervous just by being seated in front of the Head of Lust and one of the Three Heroes.

“I say that my Alice did a good job,”

“Yes, he did. Thank you for protecting my grandson, Alice-kun,”

Alice flushed at the compliment from Sullivan while Amaryllis smiled as she sipped her tea.

The meeting had ended a few minutes prior and they were currently having drinks – at least Iruma and Amaryllis, that is. Iruma is too much of a glutton to resist and Amaryllis had always loved Rose Hip Tea to pieces. It wasn’t as fun as she expected it to be. Yocchan‘s parents were submissive and although they wanted to defend their child, they knew better than to say something negative. The boy just couldn’t pick a better opponent. They’ve heard Alice’s reasoning as well, the motive for the fight.

Apparently they were simply too confident and viewed Iruma as weak. Quite unreasonable, really.

“They were scared,”

“Terrified, I’d say,”

“Couldn’t even speak properly,”

And as the two laugh Opera couldn’t help but think abuse of authority. He doesn’t say anything nonetheless. He as well, believed that what happened was just proper. If word got to Balam, no doubt the demon would come rushing as well. As for Kalego, well they’d have to exclude him for now since his voice of reason was always fair. They on the other hand, admittedly, are quite biased.

“That’d teach them a lesson, kufufufufu – “

David shook his head at his madam’s antics.

“I… I really am alright, I-Iruma-sama!”

Alice flushed when the other grabbed his hands, carefully inspecting his bruised knuckles and wounded palms for the nth time of the day. He did it at the infirmary earlier as well and although the nurse assured that it was alright now, Iruma was still quite worried. From behind his back, he could hear his mother snicker at his distress and he could feel himself heating up more. They were about to go home when his fiancé stopped him, seemingly having something to say.

“You got hurt because of me,” What’s he supposed to say or do against that pout!? “I’m sorry.”

“P-Please stop apologizing now! It’s my task to protect you as your betrothed!”

Iruma nodded in reply although still a bit hesitant.

“Nn, thank you for protecting me today,” the six-year-old said and Alice sighed out of relief. He’d definitely prefer a thank you more than an apology. It made him feel accomplished and proud. “You were very cool today, Azu-kun.”

And when Iruma tightened his grip around his fingers, Alice froze.

“Oh no, he’s down,”

“This is your moment, Alice-chan!”

Came the hushed encouragements from behind.

“I-I-I-It was a pleasure, Iruma-sama!” he managed to choke out, eyes spinning and feeling like he was about to overheat. He was used to compliments but when it came from the individual he admired and liked the most then even just a little bit was too much. It didn’t help how he wasn’t immune as well. Perhaps in the future, it'd be the same as well. “I’m… I’m glad I was able to do something for you.”

He lowered his head to the ground, both hands gripping Iruma’s fingers.

Alice could then feel something soft press against his cheek so he looked up only to see his ever so lovely fiancé smiling a few centimeters away from his face. Someone in the background squeaks — his mother most likely — and another lets out a long grumble of complaint — Opera definitely — .

Did he just –

“See you tomorrow, okay?”

And then Alice promptly overheats.

“I fainted, mother!” 

Alice complained, stuck sulking in his bed again. How on earth was he supposed to meet Iruma-sama tomorrow after he did that!? That was so lame! And just when things had been going to well, he really had to do something so uncool. It wasn’t as bad as last time though because Iruma… his Iruma-sama he… The six-year plopped down on a pillow, one hand caressing his right cheek. He flushed at the memory, whines, and grumbles becoming silent when he remembered what happened earlier.

Nn… It was nice. Iruma-sama was very, very cute.

“Oh, it’s fine dear,” Amaryllis replied, giggling behind manicured fingers. “You got a kiss, didn’t you?”

“Did you really have to do that, Iruma-sama?”

A displeased Opera asked as they were on their way back to the manor.

“Hmm?” Iruma looked up to the servant, tilting his head to the side. He always did that to Opera and Sullivan. They never said anything about it until now. “Aren’t you supposed to do that when you really, really thank someone?”

( “It’s our fault then,” the cat demon concluded, realizing the first mistake they’ve done. )

Chirp!

“Kotori-chan!”

Iruma almost fell on the floor when a humungous fluff of black feathers flew into his arms. It’s only been a year yet the bird had already grown so much. She’s gotten much heavier as well. The six-year-old thought that she was just getting fatter – since she doesn’t get to deliver that many letters anymore – but Opera and Sullivan knew that wasn’t the case. Weren’t runts supposed to stay small their entire life? At this point, they’ve just accepted everything. The bird doesn’t seem aggressive, never was and hopefully never will be. It continued to live in their backyard and Iruma loved her but her growing size was starting to become a bit of a mystery.

"Did she grow bigger again?"

"She won't fit here at this rate,"

Better ask Balam about this, Opera silently reminds himself. She’s growing way too fast.

Alice had been hesitating to enter their classroom for quite a while now.

What should I say to Iruma-sama!? his inner laments and dismay. The other had always been early to school – never late – because he goes with Sullivan and Opera who work at the high office. He usually arrived much earlier than Alice as well so what’s the difference now? Iruma was most likely currently sitting on his seat, the bell about to ring in ten minutes. All the while he was sorting out his thoughts, a few classmates pass by and open the door to pass, greeting him good morning while they’re at it. He didn’t particularly mind but when his eyes landed on his betrothed, his hesitance turned into surprise.

“It’s a good thing you and Asmodeus-kun didn’t get hurt,”

“He’s bad because he picked a fight with a sick person!”

“That’s right! Even if he thinks that Iruma-kun looks weak he shouldn’t have done that!”

“At least he learned his lesson now. Your fiancé was so cool, wasn’t he?”

Iruma blinked at the number of individuals that surrounded him. There were at least six demons, mostly girls. They’ve been asking him stuff about the fight yesterday ever since he arrived. Apparently his classmates were both worried and curious. Although they did think that Iruma getting exceptions was unfair, they also thought that picking a fight was a bit too much. They sided more with Iruma and Alice in this case. Seeing their classmate get beaten up must have scared them.

“He thought I look weak…” Iruma mumbled under his breath, remembering that it was also what they talked about in his grandfather’s office yesterday. Bullies preyed upon the weak, that’s right. He then stared at his classmates and asked, “Do I really look weak?”

They glance at each other before the replies come in.

“Hmm… Not really weak? More like soft looking and too gentle?”

“Iruma-kun is like mama! She’s very sweet to me but she’s scary when she’s mad!”

“Your bloodline is very, very strong but you don’t use it at all…”

“You’re too shy! Nobles are supposed to be strong-strong!”

And by strong they mean assertive. Nobles hate it when they get insulted or stepped on. Iruma had very long patience, helped others, and easily forgave so he didn’t really give that sort of aura. True, he looked well brought up but his mannerisms were far too weak. Unlike Alice who knows not to take disapproval from others, Iruma accepts irrelevant criticism and lets it slide. Even not taking account of noble bloodlines, normal demons easily get angered whenever their weaknesses are mentioned. Weak is actually an unsuitable term, perhaps kind is more proper.

After all, kindness is often mistaken as weakness especially in the Netherworld.

In a world where people grow stronger by stepping on others, Iruma’s simply too tender-hearted.

“It’s not a bad weak though! Iruma-kun always helps us with our assignments!”

“And you’re the only one who doesn’t do anything bad to us girls!”

Even Alice glared at them from time to time. He really didn’t like it whenever they got too close or tried to gain his favor. Class activities were fine but anything too personal was a bit of a reach. The other boys on the other hand, well… Aside from being mischievous and playful, they were also very naughty pulling on their hair and the likes. Iruma was the only one who doesn’t do anything bad more so ignore them.

“It’s still unfair that you get exempted though!”

“It’s because he’s sick, stupid! Do you want to be sick as well!?”

“Well, no… Mama says that being sick is hard,”

They glance at Iruma before they awkwardly smile. Now that it’s placed like that they can’t help but rethink their opinion.

“Get well soon so that we can fly together, okay?”

Alice sighed out of relief from the corner of the room.

Chapter Text

The first time Iruma joined an actual contest, his guardians are a wreck.

“I can’t do it,” Opera announced as he stared at the stage where his proxy was at. He had his usual unresponsive expression on but his ears were showing the exact opposite. They uncontrollably twitched and flexed, flattening on the top of his head from time to time. He was that anxious. “I am going to close my eyes. Please tell me when it’s all over.”

Babyls has its annual Spelling Bee every year. In the elementary division, it’s done per level since the lower grades don’t particularly have the same skills as those in fifth or sixth. This year, Iruma had been chosen as a representative for his class. Alice would’ve been chosen as well if he hasn’t already participated in the Science Quiz Bee. Speaking of Alice, he was seated with his classmates looking quite nervous as well. He cheered as best as he could but the apprehension was still present since after all this is a competition.

These guys on the other hand –

“You… You… You have to watch, Opera-senpai,”

Balam said, his leg bouncing up and down on his seat. He might correct the cat demon about his behavior but he himself is not doing any better. He’s sweating as he keeps his attention on stage, on guard, and ready. There was the thought of what if anyone notices and iruma-kun totally looks like a demon, right? which runs in his head. It was a heavy secret to bear and every time he heard the boy’s name being mentioned by one of the spectators, red warning signs flashed in front of his eyes screaming danger, danger, danger.

“I can’t do it,”

“You have to,”

“I can’t do it,”

For Opera, it’s more so because he’s nervous that Iruma would do bad. Although he thinks that losing would be alright, he wanted to see the child happy and not sad. His Iruma-sama had been extremely uneasy for this day. It’s his worry as a pseudo-parent, protective skills kicking in because if ever they say ahh too bad number six, you’re wrong and Iruma all but sheds a single tear, he’s sure he’d stand up in complaint.

Better close his eyes at this rate.

“You lot are overreacting,” Kalego who had his arms crossed in front of his chest clicked his tongue in irritation. He mumbled something about you’re being annoying, Shichirou under his breath before he huffed and raised his chin towards the stage.

“He’s smarter than the other contestants. Have more faith,"

He had confidence in the boy since he’s the one who trained Iruma for the spelling bee. If it was Opera, the servant would just continuously serve food distracting the boy in progress. Balam would teach unrelated and difficult words while the Headmaster would simply suggest for them to rig the program itself. Obviously he was the only candidate who’d get the job done. One week is more than enough for revisions and training.

Click! Click!

“Also, Headmaster, will you please stop taking photos now?”

Opera’s nerves finally calmed down when the program ended.

“Deviiii – “ Sullivan looked quite proud standing on stage next to his grandson, first place certificate held by the boy.

His hand was doing the devil number sign and Iruma smiled as Balam took the photo.

Kalego on the other hand looked quite smug as he self-assuredly said, “I told you.”

Iruma blinked when he heard familiar voices whisper from somewhere close.

After they got off the stage and the crowd dissipated, the Asmodeus family remained behind. It looked like Amaryllis and Alice were arguing about something again. The six-year old’s face was red while his mother urged him to do something. David – per usual – was being a bystander, too used to the mother and son duo bickering. It wasn’t anything serious, really. It was about something trivial actually.

It’s just that demon children find a few things a tad bit embarrassing to do.

“Go on, Alice-chan! Go ask Iruma-sama for a photo!”

“But mother – “

“Use the certificate as an excuse! I’m sure he’ll say yes!”

“What if he refuses – “ and before he knew it he was pushed right in front of his fiancé.

 Alice glared at his mother who immediately put on a well-rehearsed smile.

“We were in the crowd watching,” the Head of Lust gracefully bowed her head as a greeting to Sullivan and the other company present. She also received a similar welcome in response while Iruma’s expression brightened. The boy liked her because she always brought him sweets, you see. In a way, it was to get her future son-in-law’s favor. “Congratulations, Iruma-sama. A job well done.”

“Congratulations, Iruma-sama,” Alice added not wanting to be outdone by his mother. “It had been decided right from the beginning.”

“Thank you, Amaryllis-san, Azu-kun,” followed by a bright smile that made the other press his lips into a thin line.

“Ohohoho, no problem at all Iruma-sama!” the woman laughed, fanning herself. Opera’s ears twitched at her next statement. “And how many times have I told you to call me mother?”

When Amaryllis realized that her son was speechless, she nudged him from behind.

Alice then cleared his throat and asked, “Iruma-sama, do you mind if we take a photo together?”

“Wha – “

Balam’s jaw dropped when they reached the mansion’s backyard, Kotori perching on her nest on the ground. Tree branches are far too thin and weak to endure her. She wasn’t that heavy but she had a lot of fluff and was pretty huge. At this point – although Iruma could still carry her – she was almost half as big as the child. Wild monster bird hatchlings were about that size. This one, who was thought to be a runt, had somehow started to steadily grow bigger and bigger.

Perhaps she could deliver parcels now, not just flimsy thin letters.

“That’s strange,” even Balam didn’t have an answer. Nowadays he didn’t have an answer for everything – ranging from Iruma and now this. There was simply a lack of knowledge and research about mythical creatures. “How come you two find the strangest things?”

Sullivan and Opera glanced at each other.

“Today we’ll be memorizing the school anthem,”

Drarry said during homeroom prompting a bunch of whines and shouts of ehhhhhhhh from his students. They were already halfway into the school year so isn’t this a bit too late? They really should’ve done this from the beginning. Other classes were also doing the same thing. Usually, first-grade students wouldn’t be taught this – they can just learn as they progress in school – but the endless chatter and wrong lyrics during gatherings were starting to become troublesome.

“We’re doing this because many can’t memorize such an easy song!”

“What a bunch of bullshit!” one of their classmates exclaimed and Alice frowned mumbling something under his breath. As much as possible he didn’t want Iruma to hear such uncouth words but unfortunately, said individual was sitting right in front of their desk. He was complaining about the school anthem, something about the lyrics not making sense. “Why are we singing about food!? Shouldn’t we sing about… I dunno… The valor of being a demon and stuff? Demon King-sama perhaps?”

“Don’t be like that, humans are tasty you know!”

“They’re still food! Why are we singing about food!?”

“They’re a delicacy!” the other replied, not really sure as to why he has to be the one to explain this to his seatmate. Everyone knew what humans were. He doubts that the other didn’t. Perhaps he just found the school anthem ridiculously horrible. “Ichor of the kings! Food for the royals! One drop enough to add a hundred years to a fading demon’s lifespan!”

“Humans are still weaklings!”

“No, they’re not! They possess more rationality than any demon! They can resist temptation! Do you know how hard that is to do? Have you never been tempted before!?”

“They’re still food! They’re not that amazing,”

“Iruma-sama…”

The boy groaned, turning around to seek aid from their classmate. Everyone in their class knew that Iruma was well-educated and rather advanced when it came to knowledge regarding mythical creatures. They’d even go as far and say that he knew more than actual adults. It was easy to tell since the boy frequently read and mentioned difficult things to comprehend.

“Please help me with this knucklehead. He doesn’t understand,"

Alice also turned to his fiancé with an eager expression on his face, looking like he was waiting for something.

Iruma stared at his classmate for a moment before his gaze lowered on his lap.

Humans?

“Iruma-sama?” the Asmodeus heir called out when he didn’t say anything after quite a bit of time. “Is something the matter?”

The six-year-old owlishly blinked before he shook his head, “Nothing. I was just thinking about it.”

“Nn. Humans are pretty weak, aren’t they?” Iruma nodded, his other classmate grinning at his seatmate as if to say I told you. He was proud since an intelligent individual decided to back his point.  In a way, he seemed more credible now. “I think it has something more to do with tradition perhaps? It’s been like that since way back.”

 A rather vogue and empty answer. It was enough for simple-minded six-year-olds though.

Alice on the other hand is left confused.

“Uncle Balam,”

Iruma started off, leaning against the demon’s shoulder as he was carried down the hallway of Babyls. His class had ended a few hours ago and he opted to stay with the pair for today. It was normal for him to see them when they had no lectures to do. Beside them Kalego was also walking in tow, the three of them heading towards the Headmaster’s office since the sun was starting to set. Balam hummed in response before the boy continued with his sentence.

“What’s a human?”

The teacher froze in his step and Kalego continued to walk ahead, halting and looking back when he realized that the other had paused.

“Uncle Balam?”

“Shichirou, hurry up,”

It was quite easy to hide his distress since he wore a mask but he doubts he would’ve been able to without it. Behind the garment, he was pale and nervous, hands around Iruma starting to become cold from uneasiness. When he asked Opera and Sullivan when they planned to tell the boy he also meant to include himself. He’s been there since day one and they always went to him whenever the boy was sick or in an unusual state. The question wasn’t really that unexpected; he really should’ve known that Iruma would ask him out of all people since he’s the one who introduced those books in the first place.

Balam worriedly frowned when he saw big blue innocent eyes looking up at him waiting for an answer.

“I’ll… I’ll answer your question when we get to Sullivan-sama’s office, Iruma-sama!”

The demon forced a smile, deciding to just continue walking for now. It would be better if Opera and Sullivan were around for this as well. Although he had answers, he wasn’t mentally prepared and he can’t handle this on his own.

“Eh? But you can just tell me now!” Iruma pouted with his cheeks flushed, becoming a bit fussy.

Balam gulped at the six-year old’s persistence, legs picking up the pace.

Kalego who was observing them couldn’t help but raise a brow out of curiosity, “What question was it?”

No, don’t –

“I asked Uncle Balam what humans are,” the child answered, going on a long explanation about how he couldn’t properly answer a classmate’s question because he wasn’t quite sure what the word meant. He knew that it was a mythical creature but he was completely lost regarding its definition and special traits. “I don’t know what it is. What do they look like and what do they do?”

“You don’t know what humans are?” Kalego narrowed his eyes at Balam, not really suspicious but just finding it strange. This individual out of all demons is well-known for his obsession regarding humans. He’s expected him to influence Iruma about it at some point. “Don’t you have picture books about those? Shichirou frequently makes them doesn’t he?”

“Actually – “

“I don’t have anything regarding humans though?” the six-year-old tilted his head to the side and Kalego’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

“My classmates know about them. Is it popular?”

“That’s because there’s a ton of stories about them,” he replied, voice sounding uninterested probably because he was thinking things through. In the end, he assumed that it isn’t a big deal. It’s just a storybook anyway. “Although they’re extinct now they had a lot of influence when they used to exist, thus the vast amount of legends. Tales about them are much common.”

“Common?”

“Yes, common,”

Balam nervously fidgets, his grip around the boy tightening its hold.

“Humans are bipedal creatures, Iruma. Appearance-wise they are identical to us demons in many ways except for the fact that they do not have any wings, tail or horn,” then again in the Netherworld, you can also be a demon born with no horn or be one without a tail. There are also those that resemble animals. The only deciding factor was wings, it was constant and everyone had it.

“They also do not have mana thus do not have the ability to do magic,"

“They don’t have any mana?”

“It’s a unique trait of their race,”

“But!” Balam hastily cut in, a forced smile beneath his mask as he tried to steal the boy’s attention from Kalego. “What they lack in magic they make up with their incredible intelligence! Because they don’t have mana they are non-dependent on it! Humans are very, very innovative creatures! Although they are fragile unlike demons, humans are much more gifted in almost every aspect! I would really, really like to see one ahahahaha.”

Iruma remained silent for a second, a bit confused, “They’re not like animals then?”

“Hmm? Of course not! Humans are designed perfectly,” the large demon insisted, trying his best to come up with a lot of positive explanations. His eyes were starting to spin, the Headmaster’s office still quite far away. He’s never loathed Babyl’s hallways so much until today. “They’re ethereal beings Iruma-sama! They’re pure unlike us demons! They’re so much better!”

Balam hoped that his desperate persuasion seemed like his per-usual energetic chatter.

“Like the Demon King-samas?”

“More than the Demon King-samas!”

“Then why do we eat them if they’re not animals? They also look like demons, right? Isn’t that a bit scary?”

The six-year-old asked, tilting his head to the side. He had a point, really.

“Well… Well… Well, that is…” Balam’s gaze focused on the bottom left of his view before he nervously gulped. It was one of the disadvantages of being a pseudo-guardian to a very incredibly smart child. It’s mostly his fault as well since he’s the one who instilled this knowledge into the boy. “Unlike humans, demons are very greedy creatures. They have something we do not have so we want to take it away from them.”

“Their blood tastes good,” Kalego monotonously added on, putting it into simpler terms.

“It heals and satisfies a demon’s spiritual hunger. Our species ascend on their blood,"

“At least that’s what one of the very, very old legends say!” the other continued, trying to shift the topic into a better direction. “Legends are interesting but no one knows whether they’re fiction or not.  Also, please keep in mind that this took place thousands and thousands of years ago! What may seem normal back then could seem unreasonable now.”

Iruma blinked before he nodded in contemplation.

“Does that mean I’m kind of like a human then?”

This time, Kalego paused on his steps as well.

Balam’s eyes widened before he pressed his lips into a thin line. He tried to open his mouth once, twice, but he had nothing to say, no words would come out no matter how much he urged himself to speak. It wouldn’t even be an understatement to say that he was speechless. The other also narrowed his eyes at the boy, confused as to where this was going. 

“I don’t have horns, a tail or wings,” Iruma explained when he noticed the silence. “I’m kind of like a human, aren’t I?”

“Ahh…” Balam’s response was shaky and late, tone obviously distressed. He hesitated for a while before he gave the boy's question an answer, “But that’s because you’re sick Iruma-sama. You are much frailer than other demons and your development is slower.”

“But I also don’t have mana,” he tilted his head to the side in question, curious like the six-year-old child he is. “Everyone gets theirs when they’re five and Azu-kun had already awaked his bloodline magic.”

The demon forced a smile on his face, “That as well, is because you are sick.”

Kalego could only stare at his friend’s back when he started to walk again.

“Ehh? When will I get better then?” Iruma pouted against the teacher’s shoulder, large hand affectionately patting his back in concern.

“I wanna fly and do magic like everyone else. I wanna be like grandpa, Opera-san, Uncle Balam, and Uncle Kalego. I wanna be a strong demon,"

Balam could only laugh wryly in response.

Chapter Text

Iruma is different.

True, it has something to do with his race but it’s also mostly because of the individuals around him.

Demons are naturally selfish and greedy, instincts suppressed by thorough discipline found in their household and school. It’s the very reason why being a parent is difficult. It’s also why Babyls is one of the most protected fortresses in the world. Along with it comes a ton of responsibilities, not just family. Humans on the other hand are born naturally good without any malice. Their growth depends on how they’re brought up along with the environment around them. These two factors hand in hand cultivates an individual’s personality.

Because of that, it is only inevitable that Iruma who was raised with love all around would grow up to be a good person.

( And in the future he continues to be so as well. Fast forward to a few years, Sullivan’s silently crying in the corner because you shouldn’t abuse your authority like that, grandpa! by his own beloved grandson. )

Everyone could see and tell that he was different, the disparity black and white. The person himself doesn’t seem to notice though, oblivious to every questioning look they send his way whenever he says thank you, please or I’m sorry like a good child. He’s grown used to it and no one really says anything or points it out. They too liked the contrast, it was pleasant to see a boy that courteous. Even nobles weren’t that well-behaved. No matter what world it is, it doesn’t change the fact that everyone wants to be treated respectfully.

The first time Iruma notices he’s different from others is during his first practical activity at Babyls.

“Mana abnormality?” Drarry narrowed his eyes at the paper he was given. “You don’t have it easy huh, Iruma-kun?”

A condition that slowed the development of an individual’s demonic traits. It was extremely rare but it existed – physical factors like wings, horns and tail late in growth due to the lack or excessiveness of mana. When he told Alice he didn’t seem to mind, exclaiming as expected of Iruma-sama! because he already believed that it would be the latter. Being related to a strong demon assured many things like wealth and a good bloodline. Surely, because he’s Sullivan’s grandson he’d also grow up to be powerful.  Everyone said so.

The second time Iruma notices is during a PTA meeting.

“I always see your grandpa and servant-san with you, Iruma-kun,” a classmate commented, noticing that the boy was with the same set of individuals again. “What about your mama and papa?”

Iruma blinked.

Mama and papa?

“Are your parents not coming?” it was an innocent question, really. The other was a bit curious since he’s never seen them before. He wondered if Iruma looked like his father or mother, intrigued about the demons that raised his intelligent classmate. Lord Sullivan was quite old as well so it was difficult to see the resemblance.  Or perhaps because they’re nobles – “Maybe they’re busy…”

The third time is when he asks Balam a certain question that leads to another.

“When will I get better then?”

To which the teacher only awkwardly smiled in response.

He won’t get better then?

The fourth is when he confronts his grandfather about it.

“Grandpa,” he started off, letting the demon tuck him into bed. It was their usual routine – one storybook before bed. These past few days Balam had been cramming and making him ones about humans. They weren’t as scary as he expected them to be. Rather than that, they seemed interesting. It looked like demons were the evil ones in all the stories actually. “My mama, she’s your daughter right?”

Sullivan froze on his seat, the ever-so present smile becoming stiff.

Iruma on the other hand was having a battle against sleep, his eyelids heavy, “Or was it my papa? Was he your son?”

The silence wasn’t awkward – for the tired boy at least – and the elder seemed to be contemplating, taking a bit of time to reply. Usually he’d just say yes to whatever the child would say with no hesitation whatsoever but this time it was different. It took him about a full minute, not particularly looking nervous, just blank – a complete difference to the usually animated Headmaster.

“Are you curious about them?” to which Iruma nodded yes, eyes shut close about to sleep.

“What were they like?” he asked, prompting a question for his grandfather.

Sullivan’s mistake was not answering immediately because a few seconds later during his hesitance,

“Did they not want me because I’m sick?”

The archdemon pressed his lips into a thin line, book in hands already long forgotten.

“He’s just six, turning seven,”

Opera reasoned out, not liking how his master was making hasty decisions again. Last time they decided that they’d tell Iruma when he turns ten and it was final but now they were opting to change it again. Balam silently listened to them on the couch, bags under his eyes from staying up countless nights making those storybooks. It was a good thing that there wasn’t much work this week. It would’ve been an absolute disaster if it was exam week.

Ever since he reported what happened a week ago, things had taken a complete turn.

Both Opera and Sullivan looked like they were on a constant edge. Understandable since they’ve been looking after the boy his entire life. He as well was in a similar state – if his efforts were of any indication. He believed that if they did indeed plan on telling Iruma that he was a human then the boy should have a positive view on the race first or he’d end up hating himself. It was something he realized he should’ve done earlier. Telling Iruma about humans didn’t sit right with him because it felt like he was outright exposing him.

Your race gets eaten around here, that’s basically the message it would send if they told him anything.

Anyone wouldn’t like that, would they? Iruma would spend the rest of his life living terrified.

“Would you rather he finds out by himself, Opera-kun?”

“I believe that it is a better option than letting a child go out frightened by everyone he meets,”

“That’s why he’s engaged with Asmodeus-kun. He’s there to protect him,”

“We do not have any assurance that the boy will not turn his back,” is what the cat demon replied with, a bite in his tone as he talked back for once. Usually, he’d just shake his head and sigh or send an unsatisfied look but at this point, it was painstakingly obvious that he was disagreeing. “For all we know he might be the one who ruins Iruma-sama.”

Now it wasn’t that demons had a bad view of humans. It was good actually.

Too good that everyone would go lengths and lengths just to get one and have a taste.

Being human wasn’t bad. It was just different.

“He defended him from that boy,”

“He still has the same opinion on humans just like any other demon out there,”

“He’s intelligent. He admires Iruma-kun,”

“Because he believes that both of you are related. He is under the impression that Iruma-sama has the blood of a strong demon running in his veins. That one day he would awaken and become some sort of extraordinary being. That’s what it is,”

“Asmodeus-kun is just six years old,” the Headmaster reasoned out, leaning back his seat. “You are overthinking things, Opera-kun.”

The servant frowned, begging to differ.

“I don’t have parents,”

Alice blinked, his head drifting elsewhere after hearing the shocking confession from his betrothed.

Iruma looked calm – albeit a little solemn – as he went on coloring his paper, “I think…”

There’s silence for a minute or two, the Asmodeus heir opening and closing his mouth multiple times before he remains quiet, a bit too speechless for his own liking. As demons, it’s not good to show others your vulnerable side. It’s the very reason why he didn’t want Iruma to see him in a state of distress last time due to his birthday. They were prideful beings and this… This is equivalent to handing someone a knife. Lineage is very important to demons – due to bloodline magic – second to rank.

“You… think?” Alice nervously gulped, forgetting about the activity they were doing.

Iruma simply nodded in reply, “Grandpa doesn’t tell me anything about them no matter how much I ask.”

And then Alice blinked, realizing that oh… Oh.

“Maybe it’s just too complicated to explain, Iruma-sama?”

There’s a smile on his face because, “I’ve also never met my father before.”

Blue eyes glisten over with wonder.

Upon realization that oh, maybe it’s alright to share due to Alice’s positive response, Iruma then proceeded not to hesitate.

The first instance showed up one day after school and everyone’s waiting for their parents to come pick them up. Per usual, someone’s too curious about Iruma’s lineage, wanting details and ever so curious. There were more commoners than nobles in their class. It was fascinating to see a servant – in this case Opera – come and go every single day. Even Alice’s mother dropped by ever so often and although Lord Sullivan counted as a family member, fact is they’ve never seen Iruma’s parents before.

“Are you waiting for Opera-san today again, Iruma-kun?”

A classmate asked, waiting for his guardians to arrive as well.

“Nn,”

The middle school division was pretty far off and Iruma – who had no wings – had to be escorted back and forth, nestled in Opera’s arms as they flew from one place to another. Today would be the same as well and his classmates had already grown used to seeing it happen. Iruma’s sick, understandable yes. There’s a reason as to why he’s being coddled, it’s kind of well-known now.

There’s one thing that doesn’t add up though.

“Your parents never come to pick you up, huh?”

Strange because shouldn’t they be more worried if that’s the case?

It’s an innocent question coming from a fellow six-year-old. He’s more concerned than judgmental – an inquiry coming from his loose tongue.

Iruma doesn’t even hesitate before he replied with, “I don’t have parents.”

It’s a rather blunt statement. No curved sides, straight to the point as if it’s a fact.

His classmate’s eyes widened before he gulped, remaining silent at the shocking revelation.

The next day, Iruma immediately realized his mistake because the moment he enters the room –

“Is it true that you don’t have parents, Iruma-kun?”

The rumors had already started.

Demons would always be demons.

“What? It’s no use getting close to him then?”

They’d take advantage of whatever weakness you have. Demon children, although still children, are still demons. It feels good if you one-up someone, you see? That applied to Iruma who they believed had everything, most especially. Upon realizing that the boy was sick and had no parents unlike them, they somehow gained a sense of confidence. He’s not untouchable, is what they’ve realized. He’s just smart.

What were they so scared of?

“Who said it? Lynn?”

“You guys understand that even if he doesn’t have parents, he’s still Sullivan-sama’s grandson?”

“Ehh? But my mom said that Sullivan-sama doesn’t have – “

Alice pressed his lips into a thin line, casting the other a worried glance.

No one talks to Iruma that day.

( “It’s common knowledge not to overshare, Iruma-sama,”

 Iruma’s eyes turned glossy when Alice – out of all individuals – looked pent up with him as well.

 “You can tell me because it’s me,” he later added on. “Others will not be the same.” )

“Iruma-sama?”

Opera asked, wondering why his protégé was so lethargic.

It’s been going on for a few days now and every time he’d come to pick up the boy, Iruma would simply spend the entire flight resting against his shoulder silent. Even as they’re walking down the hallway there’s nothing. There are no questions coming from the child and his usual cheerful chatter about how his day went was absent. Surely it’s not because he’s lacking sleep? The servant always makes sure that he gets enough rest every single day.

“Hmm?”

“Are you not feeling well again?”

There’s silence for about three seconds before –

“Nn,” Iruma nodded his head, grip around Opera’s shoulders tightening their hold.

“Can I not go to school tomorrow?”

Chapter Text

Naberius Kalego believed that something was not right.

He couldn’t put his finger on it but from where he was standing, the boy looked completely fine. Compared to the instances where Iruma was sick, the current situation looked toned down – albeit a little too normal. Usually, when the child was ill he’d spike fevers so high he wouldn’t be able to get out of bed. His face would get sweaty and turn red, pale, and way too lethargic with no appetite – a complete opposite of the usually gluttonous Iruma. If this was the usual fever, clearly something was off.

He doesn’t know if it’s because the three were biased with the boy but they were missing all of these vital points.

Also…

Kalego frowned when the child intentionally avoided his eyes.

He’s not sick, isn’t he?

Even he – when he was young – pretended that he was sick.

It’s completely normal. Everyone’s done it at least once in their entire life – whether it’s from laziness or something else. Thing is, he doesn’t know what Iruma’s reason is. Many would say that the six-year-old was not the type to lie but Kalego begs to differ. A child is still a child. Opera, Balam, and Lord Sullivan don’t seem to be considering the idea that the boy is faking either – too fussy about his well-being above all else. Even if Iruma lied they’d most likely forgive him in an instant as well.

They were that lenient on him.

Kalego on the other hand was different.

“Well?” he started off when the three left the room to divide the tasks amongst themselves. Opera was on cooking duty, Balam was trying to figure out what this new disease was and Lord Sullivan was going around trying to find something that might make his beloved grandson cheer up. He on the other hand was left on babysitting duty. “Why are you faking it?”

The flinch the child made further confirmed his suspicions.

“I knew it,”

Seriously, Balam out of all individuals ought to figure this out. That man’s bloodline magic was Buzzer for goodness sake. Perhaps it was because he trusted Iruma way too much that he unconsciously turned it off. He doesn’t know. Naberius Kalego is convinced that he’s surrounded by doting idiots.

The teacher simply sighed when he got no response in return.

He did not want this to turn into a bad habit.

“If you’re not sick then go to school,”

“Hai,”

He also noticed how Iruma’s blue eyes ever so slightly glazed over.

Kalego frowned at the headmaster and Opera who were in the middle of a conversation.

Dinner had been served late because Iruma’s food came first but now they’re all gathered in the mansion’s dining hall discussing random things. As usual, the pair is talking about the boy while Balam is silently eating his food, answering questions every once in a while. The cat demon seemed to notice the gaze directed at him because his ears immediately perk up seemingly annoyed.

“What is it Kalego-kun?” the servant’s tone is calm but it’s a hiss, almost.

Anyone would be bothered if they caught someone staring at them that intently, of course.

The headmaster blinked, puzzled before he turned to the demon as well.

“You have to stop spoiling Iruma so much,”

Utensils clattered on a plate and Balam looks up from his food, confused.

“He’s sick, Naberius-kun…”

“The more spoiled he is the better!”

“Are you implying that Iruma-sama is a spoiled brat?”

See? This is what happens.

Kalego sighed before he leaned back his seat saying, “Yes, he is a spoiled brat and he’s taking advantage of it.” If looks could kill he would’ve died from the one he received from Opera already. Then again, he’s used to it at this point. It does make him sweatdrop a bit though – not that he’d let it obviously show on his face. He then kept his farce on and crossed his arms above his chest to get his point across. “What I’m saying is, you lot are too lenient. This’ll turn into a bad habit for him.”

“What? Being spoiled?”

Kalego shook his head and said, “Skipping school and lying about being sick.”

In the first place, he had no intentions of siding with the boy. He never planned on keeping it as a secret as well. It’d be better if they resolved this issue during the first day. Balam remained silent before realization flashed across his face, seemingly in deep thought. Opera glared at his underclassman while Sullivan was frozen on his seat.

“There is no way Iruma-sama would lie,”

Came the defense from the servant.

Kalego on the other hand believed that he had nothing to prove so he merely sighed and said,

“Suit yourself,”

Iruma doesn’t understand.

“What seems to be the problem, Iruma-kun?”

There’s no problem, really.

“You can talk to me if something is bothering you,”

Lord Sullivan’s kind smile dawned in front of his face before his heart started to race.

( “You always keep secrets,” Alice said, teeth gritted and rose-colored eyes glistening over with tears. There’s silence, the Asmodeus heir’s sobs filling up the empty room and he’s just there – standing and unmoving in surprise, unable to give a hand. “Why are you like this only towards me, Iruma-sama?” )

Iruma doesn’t understand.

School turned out to be a nightmare – for Iruma that is.

“You were sick!?”

“Are you alright? Boys, don’t crowd around him, mou~!”

“Aren’t you way too frail, Iruma-sama?”

Everyone’s acting the way they normally are and he’s sitting on his seat, an awkward smile on his face. Demon children are rather blunt with no shame, blurting out whatever crosses their mind. It’s both a good and bad trait to have. Alice’s scowling at the group around them, going on a long rant about how they shouldn’t bother an individual who is still recovering.

It’d be bad if they knew that you lied…

“Iruma-sama! Iruma-sama! Yesterday, Asmodeus-kun said that you – “

Alice then immediately shuts the girl up by placing the palm of his hand over her mouth. His mother taught him better – never treat women roughly, or so she said. He’d have to apologize to her later. There’s a flush on his face and he sends her a glare before he turned and smiled at his fiancé.

“Don’t mind her, Iruma-sama!”

His smile then falters when he noticed how pale the other had become.

“See?” Opera started, not bothering to look at Kalego, eyes focused on Iruma who was being examined by Balam on the infirmary bed. “He wasn’t lying after all.”

( “Good job, Alice-kun,” the archdemon’s hand extended to give the six-year-old an affectionate pat on the head. The child had to crane his neck up to directly look up Sullivan before the elder bent down to meet his eye level. “Thank you for taking care of my grandson. He’ll be in your care from now on as well.”

There’s a glimmer in his eye from being praised but his nervousness comes back again when they told him that he can’t visit his betrothed for now.

For the six-year-old demon, it’s both confusing and frustrating. )

Lord Sullivan was in a bad mood.

Opera was in a bad mood.

Balam was also in a bad mood.

Opera was definitely blaming Kalego for this event. He was the one who insisted that the boy was alright after all. They should’ve just gone with their gut feeling in the first place. The boy fidgets under Kalego’s gaze and the teacher sighs before he retreats away from the bed. He always gets himself caught up with this bunch. They also do not know what’s wrong this time and much to his frustration, the other guardians are much too reluctant to send Iruma to the hospital.

As to why that is, he has no idea. It’s a stupid decision, that’s what.

“It’s called common sense,” going to the doctor that is. Balam could only do so much. “If you’re that worried just take him to the hospital. They can do a much better job.”

Perhaps it was his tone or choice of words as it immediately sets a few demons on edge in the room.

“Stop overreacting. He said so himself, it’s nothing,”

Balam turned to look at his colleague, scowling beneath his mask.

Kalego is confused.

“If you’re that worried just take him to the hospital then,”

Judging by his reaction, Balam obviously knew that the child was lying so why –

“They can do a much better job,”

Why?

( “Does that mean I’m kind of like a human then?”

Something clicks and Kalego pauses on his feet, the hallway eerily silent during mid-day. )

“I – ru – ma! Sa – ma !”

Alice carefully pronounced, standing outside of the other’s door with a pastry box in hand. He told David that he would be visiting his betrothed after class and the guardian agreed. Upon hearing the reason, the butler decided that they ought to drop by downtown first nonetheless. One does not simply visit a sick person while being empty-handed – a fiancé on top of that! The six-year-old patiently waited; Opera and David observing from afar.

It wasn’t Alice’s first time in the mansion so the cat demon knew it would be fine.

The child insisted that he’d open the door himself as well.

“Azu-kun?” came the startled, muffled voice from inside.

“Iruma-sama,” the Asmodeus heir nodded at the recognition. “May I come in, Iruma-sama?”

There’s silence for about three to five seconds before the humongous double door opened, Iruma slightly raising his hand to reach the knob. Alice blinked; allowing himself to enter when the other invited him in, taking in the sight of Kotori carefully perched on her master’s bed. He’s seen her before. She was the one who delivered the letters from Iruma back and forth and he’s indebted to her. Alas, her current size made it impossible to do now. Then again, that wasn’t Alice’s point.

The main point is –

“How will Iruma-sama get better if you allow her on your bed?”

“But she’s clean, Azu-kun,”

“Pi,” quite an unemotional response from the bird herself.

“You cannot be certain about that, Iruma-sama,” Alice’s mother had warned him about this attitude of his before. No one likes partners that always nag, she said. He can’t help himself though. He’s always somehow worried when it comes to Iruma. It can’t be helped since he truly, genuinely wanted the best for his fiancé. “But I guess it is alright. She is your familiar after all.”

One thing Alice found impressive was that Iruma already had a companion at such a young age. It was very rare and difficult to tame a wild monster without the use of a summoning contract. Even his mother and David were impressed – as expected of Sullivan-sama’s grandson, exemplary. If only Iruma wasn’t so humble, Alice was convinced that their classmates wouldn’t be questioning his abilities so much. Those guys knew nothing.

“I still don’t want her sitting on your bed though,”

The petty side of him acting up.

“The time will come when we… we – “ the six-year-old stuttered and flushed, Iruma looking up from the pastry box he was rummaging through. Alice cleared his throat before he continued. “Anyway, it’s much better for her to have a personal space. Are you much better now, Iruma-sama?”

Iruma stared at Alice before he hesitantly nodded,

“Nn. Sorry for making you worry, Azu-kun,”

( Perhaps at that time, it would’ve been much better to admit it than waiting for so long. )

Chapter Text

Kalego impatiently tapped his foot, eyes focused on the screen before he sighed.

“Humans are extremely docile creatures. Scholar writings report that they are more sensitive to pain than demons, their senses easily dulled and blurred by their feelings. Unlike many mystical creatures, humans are social animals similar to hounds and canines. Although they do not possess any promising feature, their high ability to reproduce and blood are considered to be highly valuable – “

None of his students seemed to be paying attention to the video playing. They were all doing their own thing – talking to their seatmates (as if they thought their teacher wouldn’t catch them), nodding off, and looking elsewhere. Usually, he’d tell them off or catch their attention in some way but he was currently not in the mood for that. His brain, just like them, had gone off somewhere else. If he could be honest he’d even admit that he was not in the mood for class.

I mean… how could he be? Not after that.

It’s been bothering him for a few days, really.

“ – in case a human is spotted, everyone is advised to subdue or try to catch it. Our kin is far more superior to their species and defeating it in combat is not that difficult compared to hellhounds and wild monsters. Despite not having any wings, mana, or sharp teeth, humans are highly intelligent and sly thus one should not let down their guard. Immediately engage in combat to capture and report to your nearest demon control station – “

The screen reflected off dark irises, Kalego frowning before he moved away from the wall he was leaning unto, heading to the front of the class. A few eyes followed him but it’s not a big deal, they probably thought that it was because the school bell was about to ring. Students were highly intuitive about that stuff, pretty knowledgeable about when the class would start and end but not the in-between. A few even started to stretch, guessing that it was most likely time to get off their seats.

“ But then again – “

Kalego then grabs the remote –

“— what are the chances of spotting an extinct species?”

– and immediately turns the screen off.

( “It doesn’t matter,” the demon shook his head, long slim fingers cupping the fourteen-year-old’s cheeks. Iruma looked different, less well-kept, and darker than four years ago but he could tell that it was him. It was Iruma. “What took you so long?”

Dark lashes blinked in confusion before blue eyes glazed over with tears. )

Alice knew that his fiancé was a bit shy and reserved but he was never this timid.

Compared to the usual, the current Iruma was quieter and self-kept. He smiled a lot less – yes, Alice noticed. How could he not when he was always paying attention? It was something the other children wouldn’t know or realize. Other six-year-olds don’t really care nor do they pay that much concern. The parents are the ones that notice – mothers most especially. They gossip and whisper, their words reaching their children’s ears. It made Alice highly uncomfortable and he could tell that his fiancé was as well with how he squirmed on his seat as they waited for their guardians to come pick them up.

“Are your parents not coming to pick you up, Iruma-kun?”

A certain demon asked and in the background, you could hear a child protest saying he doesn’t have them, mama! It’s more so out of consideration rather than contempt. They don’t want to bother their classmate. Although they do think that their classmate is not so mighty anymore, it’s still embarrassing for their mother to join in. Also, isn’t that a bit mean?

Everyone knew that Opera was the only one who always picked up Iruma from school.

And just when Iruma was about to open his mouth to answer –

“Iruma-sama’s family is a bit complicated,”

Alice immediately cut in with a huff and with the confidence befitting for a noble. He sent her the side-eye before turning his chin elsewhere, deliberately implying that yes, it is none of your business and maybe you have it all wrong. The adult was a bit taken aback before she looked down at her child with a confused look on her face because maybe they are mistaken after all?

“But I thought he doesn’t – “

“It’s complicated,” Alice insisted, Iruma staring at him with wide eyes. “They are rather humble.”

The pair then retreated in confusion, even her daughter a bit puzzled because Iruma-kun himself said that he didn’t have parents? It was all upside down now.

Alice glanced at his fiancé as if to ask how did I do, Iruma-sama? only to receive a rather cute head tilt that made him blush. The laugh comes a few seconds later because you didn’t really have to do that Azu-kun and it’s a bit embarrassing but Alice is more than happy to get that sort of response from the other.

“That’s mean, Iruma-sama,” the Asmodeus heir faked a pout, cheeks still flushed. “And here I was defending your honor.”

( Because –

“Sullivan-sama’s bloodline is rather self-kept, Alice,”

Amaryllis explained – teacup pressed against her lips, pinky finger raised as she took a sip.

“Perhaps he is rather proud of Iruma-sama because he’s kept it a secret for so long.” )

“Ah – no! It’s not like that!” the six-year-old panicked, Alice peering at him through thick rose-colored lashes waiting for a reply. He kept the pout on all the while, glad that the other was a tad bit concerned about his well-being. Iruma had always been rather careful with him, never wanting to be offensive and the like. It was also the other way around. “Uhmm… Thank you, Azu-kun.”

Alice stared, nodding at the sentiment.

His hands then fiddle with each other before he shyly scooched closer towards his fiancé on the bench.

David who had been observing from afar chuckled.

“Grandpa, I lied,”

Sullivan on bent knees and eye level with his grandson blinked.

“I’m sorry I lied, grandpa,”

Opera who was standing by the door simply remained silent.

“I’m glad that he admitted that he lied,”

Sullivan said, cheek pressed against his office desk.

His expression was serious, perhaps a tad bit more than usual. If anyone saw him right now they’d say that the archdemon had somehow reverted back to his old self – the kind of Sullivan that had always been around before Iruma. He looked gloomy but not the my grandson ignored me or I want to go home to see Iruma-kun kind. It was the I’m genuinely upset, why is this happening? Opera who had a good hold on his emotions was more silent than usual as well.

“I’m glad he did that but I’m somehow worried,”

The cat demon who had been organizing a bunch of papers did not bother to look up from his work.

Due to his protégé’s personal confession, he realized that Kalego was indeed right – not that he’d admit that out loud. Perhaps he had been a bit lenient towards the six-year-old. It’s good that Iruma admitted that he was wrong but he actually lied. He lied.

Opera felt kind of betrayed somehow.

“We should've asked him why he lied, Sullivan-sama,”

“Are you reading a book again, Iruma-sama?”

Alice asked, peeking on his fiancé’s shoulder to read the text.

He knew the language but it was one of those very difficult books again. Truth to be told, the Asmodeus heir tried to do the same thing Iruma does in order to be able to relate and share the same interest but it did not last very long. He knew about mythical creatures and the like but he wasn’t interested in them in the same advanced manner as Iruma was. Nevertheless, the other doesn’t seem to mind. Alice was also more than giddy to just be able to sit side-by-side in the library.

The chair made a small squeak as the six-year-old took a seat, arms stretched across the desk as he stared at the other. There were a bunch of other books in front of Iruma as well – perhaps he was planning on reading or borrowing them. It was either of the two, Alice knew.

“With how much you read, I am quite amazed that your eyesight is still alright,”

Alice leaned over with his weight on one elbow, Iruma looking up from his book.

They made eye contact for one, two, three seconds before the demon continued to talk.

“Your eyes are extremely blue, Iruma-sama,”

It was a compliment, really. Iruma nodded in reply, eyes scanning his fiance’s face to find something to comment on. Alice in response gradually turned red in embarrassment. He tried to endure it for a while before he turned and hid his face, huffing pink bangs away from his forehead.

“Magenta is also a really pretty color, Azu-kun,”

The other said, Alice slowly turning to look at him again.

“Really?”

“Really,”

The demon shifted on his seat, pouting as he pressed his cheek against the desk.

“— but does bloodline really matter?”

Silence filled the room after Kalego finished reading the paragraph on the book he was discussing.

There were students on the verge of sleeping and he as well – he was in a state of daze.

“Sensei?”

A student worriedly called out after about a minute of no action.

“Kalego-sensei?”

She repeated for the second time.

( “Point is if you’re dumb, you’re dumb,” he explained in a bored manner, his students letting out long reactions of ehhhh and what does that mean? because he’s never this vague. Demons were very prideful when it came to personal things like skills, appearances, and most especially bloodline. “What I’m trying to say is… don’t blame your foolishness on genetics. Your ancestors have nothing to do with this.”

And he as well… He as well should really stop being a hypocrite and start applying the same logic. )

“Why do I have to be the one who picks up Iruma?”

He wasn’t as close to the child as Balam was. He wasn’t around him 24/7 like Opera either. Also, they weren’t related nor had a familial relationship like Lord Sullivan. Naberius Kalego was an outsider. He was some random demon who had somehow managed to get himself entangled in this mess six years ago – a being called villager B. Opera had the usual unbothered expression on his face as if to ask why not? It was a habit he cannot fix.

“Lord Sullivan has a meeting with the board. I have to accompany him,”

And although the headmaster can manage by himself, it was much better to have Opera around to keep things organized.

“Go ask Shichirou,”

“Balam-kun has his remedial classes,”

“One of the other staff members then,” Kalego sighed, not planning on bending under his upper classman’s will. They’ve been having their way with him for far too long. He as well has his own plans. “I’m also busy. It doesn’t have to be me does it?”

And if the way the cat demon’s eyes darkened was of any sign –

“It can’t be just anyone, Kalego-kun,”

– Kalego had already long understood that sign.

If he knew less he’d pay no heed and assume that the guardian was simply being overbearing again, a bit too overprotective per usual. The teacher pressed his lips into a thin line before he sighed.

True, it couldn’t be just anyone.

Understandable, really.

“Okay, see you tomorrow Iruma-sama,”

Alice hesitantly got off his seat, sending the other a few worried glances as he walked towards David. He fiddled with the end of his shirt, a bit too reluctant to leave. Thankfully, the servant was more than happy to wait. He would’ve stayed with his fiancé if it weren’t for Iruma himself saying that Opera would be arriving soon. It would be rude not to listen to someone who insists, or so his mother said. Iruma smiled and at the Asmodeus heir, cheerfully bidding him goodbye.

“Have a great day, Iruma-sama!” Alice called out from afar, one last wave before he disappeared unto the distance with his chaperone.

Now, the same scenario had been going on for quite a while now.

“Uhmm… Iruma-kun, would you like us to sit with you?”

Pity.

It was a good sentiment but it did not come from a good place.

Their eyes were cold and it made the six-year-old uncomfortable. Perhaps because they thought that the child did not have a maternal and paternal figure, they assumed that he was this poor little thing. The same thoughts crossed his head. He wasn’t dumb and if he could, he’d reply saying Grandpa didn’t pick me up. I’m not a puppy.

Iruma doesn’t know how it became like this – how he because this poster boy for misfortune overnight.

“I don’t have any parents,”

Ah, he admitted it himself. That’s right.

Iruma clenched his fists unto his lap.

“It’s alright, Iruma-kun!” his classmates and a few adults said after seeing the look on his face. Everyone’s genuinely concerned but when they act like that it’s like they’re deliberately pushing the fact that he’s unlucky. He isn’t unlucky at all. Their concern for him was only making things worse.

Opera was taking a bit too long to arrive.

Also, just because he doesn’t have any parents doesn’t mean –

“Iruma,”

A voice called out from afar, Naberius Kalego’s tall daunting figure standing near the gate.

Doesn’t mean –

“What are you moping around for?” he asked, irritated by the sight, crossing his arms across his chest.

The six-year-old’s eyes widened before he immediately got on his feet.

“’Lego-sensei!” or so he cheerfully called.

Comforting crying children is a skill that Kalego does not have.

Then again, if he doesn’t do it, he’d be met with a fate much harsher than death – mainly Lord Sullivan. He could deal with Shichirou when the time comes but Opera…. Opera he could only imagine what the consequences would be. He doesn’t want to think about what would happen to his workload or to his paycheck as well. All he knew was that the result wouldn’t be good. It wasn’t favorable for him either.

How troublesome,

He always somehow manages to get himself into a difficult position due to Iruma.

He’s walking down the hallway with the six-year-old child carefully nuzzled against his nape, not really saying anything. There’s no sobbing whatsoever but his neck is damp and it was painfully obvious that something was wrong. He could remember Sullivan-sama saying that his grandson wasn’t a crybaby but Kalego begged to differ. The number of times those blue eyes glazed over was uncountable. If anything he was like a small baby animal that was always terrified.

“You are well aware of the fact that your grandfather is the headmaster of this school,” he started off, deciding to deal with this in a more practical manner. “Similar to last time, those that are doing anything questionable will be dealt with immediately.”

Bullies. Is it Yocchan again?

Iruma hastily shook his head, arms around Kalego’s neck tightening their hold, “It’s not like that…”

Came the muffled reply.

“What is it then?” Iruma squirmed and whined on his arms, Kalego pausing on his feet frowning. “Iruma, you know I don’t like it when you act like that.”

Childish and spoiled, he meant. Opera, Sullivan, and Balam liked it but Kalego loathed any cute, affectionate gesture that the child did. He’d even go as far and say that it sent shivers down his spine. How can a child’s eyes be impossibly big? He remembered asking himself a few years ago when Iruma begged him to buy him ice-cream. He really hated the cutesy act – albeit done unconsciously on the child’s behalf – mainly because he does not know how to respond.

“But!”

See? What good child? Iruma was spoiled. He always talked back and argued with Kalego, insisting on his points.

The six-year-old emerged from his spot on the teacher’s neck, small chin resting against the demon’s shoulder. There was a pout on his lips, cheeks flushed from crying, and hair in a bit of a disarray.

“It would be nice if ‘Lego-sensei was my papa instead,”

It was a short, whispered confession that would’ve been ignored if he wasn’t paying attention.

Then again, for some reason, he was always somehow attentive to this boy.

“Iruma,” Kalego sighed as he continued to walk. “Just what am I to do with you?”

And if he ever tightened his hold, no one aside from the two of them would know.

Chapter Text

“It’s going to be your birthday in a few weeks, Azu-kun,”

Iruma pointed out, effectively making Alice freeze in his place.

The young demon then turned to his fiancé with this bright look on his face when asked,

“Is there anything you want?”

Now, it wouldn’t be an understatement to say that Alice had been waiting for that question for quite a while now. During his previous birthdays, there wasn’t anything he wanted. He didn’t have anything that held his interest either. As long as his betrothed was present and they had a good time together then he was convinced that he would be satisfied. He was more of a giver rather than a receiver. This year is a bit different though because this year… this year…

( “You play the piano, Iruma-sama?”

Alice’s eyes darkened, soulless magenta eyes staring at the invitation he was holding in his hands. It was similar to the time he missed his fiance’s birthday. It felt like the world was crashing down, a feeling similar to betrayal because aren’t we supposed to tell each other stuff like this, Iruma-sama? What do you mean you’ve been learning how to play since you were four?

“You’re… You’re having a recital?” and it’s in two weeks!?

Alice who had inherited his mother’s tendencies then proceeded to panic. )

“Remember how you invited me to your recital, Iruma-sama?” although he had no idea the other was able to play an instrument, thankfully it was his first recital. If it wasn’t then it would’ve been the birthday incident all over again. “You were really, really good at playing!”

Iruma blinks before he laughs at the sentiment.

Usually, he’d shake it off but Alice seemed to be rather adamant about it. He also reacted in the same manner when Iruma finished playing that day – singing praises and all. The invitation said that it was a recital but there were only a few individuals in the audience. It was mainly his guardians, piano teacher, and a few of the staff in Babyls as well as his grandfather’s friends. It was better off that way because surprisingly, Iruma didn’t seem that confident performing in front of a crowd.

( “He can’t play in front of a crowd but he can play right in front of Lord Bel and Lady Levy?”

Kalego feels a bit pissed off at the thought before he mumbles spoiled kid under his breath. Clearly, this boy has no idea who these people attending his recital are. They really need to install some common sense into this kid. It was horrifying how Iruma knew more about history compared to what was happening at the present date.

Kalego was more than certain that the boy would become a hermit if left unattended at this rate. )

“Can you play on my birthday?” Alice asked, peering through pale pink lashes, his cheeks flushed. He felt a bit shy making such a request. “Iruma-sama, I’ll tell mother to lessen the number of attendees so…”

Since per usual, birthdays at the Asmodeus manor was a big deal. Alice wasn’t sure if the other would agree since he knew that there would be a crowd so –

“Sure!” Alice looked up from his lap. “Azu-kun made a request so I can’t ignore it, can I?”

The young demon’s eyebrows rose, magenta eyes gazing over with bliss.

“Thank you, Iruma-sama!”

His fiancé was the best.

Turns out playing the piano in front of everybody was a bad idea because due to the performance, Iruma was currently being surrounded by females. Now, not to say that popularity was a bad thing. A demon benefits from fame and it just showed how promising Lord Sullivan’s grandson was but perhaps everyone was forgetting whose birthday it was?

“You were so good at playing, Iruma-kun!”

“We were acquainted last time. I’m – “

“Mother,” the eight year old’s eyes darkened at the sight, his tone cold enough to make his parent slightly flinch in nervousness. “Who are these people you’ve invited? I have never seen them before…”

Apparently, they were daughters from other noble families.

“It’s my birthday. He is my fiancé. They are being extremely rude,”

“Is that so?” Amaryllis nervously fanned herself at the statement.

“Correct, it is your night, young master,” thankfully, David was present to set things straight again. He looked rather calm, almost as if he was used to this. “Iruma-sama doesn’t look that uncomfortable being surrounded. It would be much better if you go ahead and separate him from the others. He is your betrothed after all.”

Alice pressed his lips into a thin line, staring off at the distance where his fiancé stood before starting to walk.

Azazel Ameri had been told by her father that Lord Sullivan had an exceptional grandson.

“You’ve been learning since you were… four?”

She raised her brow in confusion because many demons her age typically lose interest in certain hobbies quite easily. It is a bit unusual to meet someone who has been continuing something for an extended period of time. Whether it is a sport, martial art or learning how to play an instrument, many give up half-way. The only thing they probably keep on doing was practicing how to use magic. Upon hearing that Iruma follows through almost every single day, it was safe to say that she was taken aback.

“What about combat?”

Because she had been training under her father for quite some time now and surely, the hero’s grandson is –

“Ahh… about that,” the eight-year-old sheepishly laughs. “I don’t really like fighting.”

Maybe it was because of his nature as a human or because of Balam — it was either of the two.

Ameri narrowed her eyes at the boy, about to open her mouth to speak when —

“Iruma-sama!” the Asmodeus heir approached, immediately catching the eye of everyone in their small social group. The young demon stood out quite easily with his white suit and rose-colored hair. Aside from that, that frown on his face was quite eye-catching as well. “Ah… Hello, everyone. Thank you for coming today.”

“Azu-kun!” it was a half-whine, half-greet. “Happy Birthday, Azu-kun!”

Alice’s lips curled up into a smile and he nodded before he turned his head towards the ladies.

“I have to thank Iruma-sama for his performance earlier. May I borrow him for a minute, everyone?”

Unlike Iruma who was rather pure and kind-hearted, Ameri was convinced that Alice was as sly as a snake.

Iruma blinked, noticing that Alice was frowning at him.

“What’s wrong, Azu-kun?”

They’ve ended up in the pavilion in the Rose Garden outside, the other insisting that they get away from the noise. Iruma didn’t seem to mind since it was Alice who insisted and he was quite familiar with the place as well. He’s been here for tea parties with his betrothed multiple times before. The hedges might be taller than them but it wasn’t a maze, it was quite difficult to get lost. It was a bit cold though because it was nighttime and demons — if didn’t need to sleep — were quite active during that period.

“I wasn’t the first one to congratulate you,” for the piano performance. “I wanted to be the first one to congratulate you.”

Iruma tilted his head before he laughed saying, “You don’t have to congratulate me. It’s your birthday, Azu-kun!”

“Still!” Alice tried to reason out, ending up with a rather petty excuse he didn’t want to say so he hesitantly mumbles, “I’m your fiancé…”

Iruma hummed, clearly hearing the other despite the low volume.

There was silence for a moment before he remembered what Kalego told him earlier —

“You look good dressed up, Azu-kun,”

Compliment your fiancé, it’s his birthday.

The Asmodeus heir flushed in embarrassment, lips pursed into a thin line.

“You look extremely good as well, Iruma-sama!”

He’d somehow expected this for some reason.

“Midnight blue really suits you! I also like it when you tie your hair back – “

Alice continued to talk for quite a long time.

“There’s a pink rose, Azu-kun,”

Iruma pointed out, crouching down to take a closer look.

Alice who was standing next to him hummed in recognition, commenting about how there are indeed roses that are in a lighter shade throughout the garden. They’re a bit difficult to spot nevertheless because red was more abundant. Iruma stared at it for a moment, somehow curious as to why. Balam had told him about it before but he forgot so became quite intrigued.

“You’ll fall face forward towards the hedge at this rate, Iruma-sama,” Alice laughed at his fiance’s concentration but not particularly doing anything to pull him back. They’ve been walking around the garden for quite a while now. “Please be careful.”

“Nn,” the other nodded, slightly tilting his head to the side as he stared at the plant. “It somehow reminds me of Azu-kun. This shade of pink.”

“Oh, does it?”

“Nn, the same color as your hair ghhk – “

Alice blinked, his face turning pale when he saw the cut running across the other’s fingers.

“Iruma-sama!” the eight-year-old immediately bent down to get on the same eye level, magenta-colored eyes slightly panicking. He has always been a bit too overprotective when it came to his fiancé because one, the other had fail health, and two, he promised that he’ll always protect him. It wasn’t a big cut; Opera wouldn’t even get mad at it. Alice was a bit naïve though. “After I told you to be careful!”

And as the other sheepishly laughed, he hastily took out his white handkerchief to help clean up.

“Sorry, sorry,” Iruma remarked, a bit guilty after seeing Alice’s worried expression. “It’s shallow, no need for the handkerchief. See?”

He pulled his hand back, a few drops of blood dripping. It wasn’t a lot but still.

“You shouldn’t have touched it, Iruma-sama!”

Alice scolded, grabbing the other’s wrist, “Open your hand this way – “

He then leaned over, his lips pressing against the human’s bleeding skin.

Iruma was confused.

“Azu-kun?”

Magenta eyes.

He held out both of his hands, covering Alice’s mouth when he leaned in to approach.

( And later on they’ve returned after quite a while, Opera’s ears twitching after seeing their state.

“You’re a bit late,” David also remarked, noticing how the younger master squirmed under his gaze. He paid no heed to it nonetheless because there were more pressing matters. “Please go greet your guests, Alice-sama. They've been waiting for quite a while now.”

“See you later, Azu-kun,” Iruma was the first to say, Alice worriedly glancing at him before he went away.

When the other was out of sight, Opera then proceeded to ask, “What took you two so long?”

Iruma blinked, looking down at his shoes for a moment before he showed the servant both of his hands,

“I got cut, Opera-san.”

The cat demon simply sighed, ushering his proxy to the side for treatment. )

When the party ended and he had given his goodbye to all of the guests, Alice immediately rushed back to his room.

“What about your bath, young master?”

“I’ll… I’ll take it by myself, David!”

He replied, back pressed against the door with his knees tucked close to his body.

There were presents on his bed and amongst them he could see a large blue teddy bear with a red ribbon around its neck. It was given to him by Iruma – the boy thought that playing the piano was simply not enough as a birthday present. The servants must have transferred them to his room while he was talking to the attendees with his mother. It was to be expected, really.

Soon enough, although the butler had left from his door, Alice’s pulse still continued to race.

“Iruma-sama…” he mumbled under his breath, both hands cupping his heated cheeks.

“Are you going to eat me, Azu-kun?” Iruma asked, his face flushed, the red extending up to his ears.

Alice reached for the white handkerchief in his pocket, pressing the carefully folded fabric against his lips, his eyes in a daze.

“You’re amazing. How can you act as if nothing happened?”

He then remained in that position for a while.