Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The transition from the mortal realm to the demon one was both the easiest and hardest thing Iruma had ever faced. There are times where he feels so at peace that he forgets he even is a human yet it remains an ever present fact. The secret that he would take to his grave literally if he was to be found out.

He wasn't certain where his sudden luck had come from as so far all the demons who knew seemed to be understanding and kind yet he was sure it would run out one day which is why he must remain vigilant.

Still every so often as he stared at the orange sunset in his room, he wondered what it would have been like to have been born a demon. Would his parents have loved him? Would he still have made friends? Would he be happy?

Not that he isn't happy now, he had never experienced such joy in his life before but the fact that he could recognise the privileges he has now is what gnaws at him. Iruma has never been a spiteful or hateful person. He tried to be kind and treat others how he wished he was treated yet there was a part of him that ached.

Deep ,deep within his heart it burned and it all came back to one thing- his birth parents. He didn't dare voice the thoughts inside lest they affect him but he couldn't deny they existed much like he couldn't deny the unadulterated truth- he was sold. Like a useless commodity he was sold to Sullivan. He wondered if his parents thought he was dead.

Despite all his hard work, trying his best to put a smile on their faces, they rewarded him back by taking him into their arms only to promptly throw him away. All those cold nights, all the days he slept with an empty stomach, everything he did for them and it wasn't enough. Would it have ever been enough?

Sure he developed his crisis evasion skills which have been undeniably useful in the demon realm but was it really worth it in exchange for the treatment- the abuse he had endured? He was just a child at the time. A child. A child who already knows the pain of manual labour. A child who understands that nothing comes for free- nothing. He didn't like to think about the more…adult jobs he had to acquire to survive. Did Sullivan know? He never brought it up before. Iruma deeply hoped he didn't, it would be embarrassing if he found out the truth.

Sullivan confused Iruma. He wasn't ignorant, he knew that the chairman was one of the strongest demons to have the level of wealth and social power he possessed yet he did not eat him.

Rather he had brought Iruma to his home and asked him to be his grandson. Asked. That was something Iruma would never forget, the demon kneeling down before him making eye contact as if they were equal as if Iruma deserved to be treated as such and had gently asked him to be his family. He couldn't even remember the last time he was given a choice before. It was overwhelming.

Not that he could even refuse. He had never refused something before, could never refuse something without consequences. He didn't like to think about consequences. One of his jobs had drilled that into him. People liked obedience and he had to replicate that if he was to be allowed to stand amongst them.

Still, he was weary. It couldn't be that simple, there must be something that Sullivan wanted from him besides being his grandson. As of yet, Iruma hasn't figured it out but he refused to let his guard down completely. Although his heart greatly warmed at the affection the demon showed him. It was difficult not to get attached.

Opera was another factor Iruma couldn't place. The blank-faced demon was an enigma, even more so than the chairman. Despite their delicate appearance, there was definite underlying strength hidden beneath. The demon had a fierce loyalty to Sullivan and seemed acutely aware of anything going on with Iruma to the point that he started checking for cameras around his room. He couldn't be too cautious.

Even now the demon was - kind, for lack of a better word. They was almost motherly in nature with their care towards Iruma. A feeling he had no experience with yet sometimes he dreams of a reality where the cat-demon really was his. That was something he would also take to the grave. He couldn't even imagine if Opera found out about that particular fantasy. They'd probably be sickened by his desperation…

Still, he found that he couldn't help but rely on them to the point where he expected them to be there every morning. He wonders how long demons live for. Would Opera be there for him when he's older? He hoped so. He’d likely die without them at this point. It was an intense feeling, the feeling of a family. Iruma hoped he’d never have to imagine it again. He couldn't lose what he has now, not ever. He couldn't go back. He refused to go back to before. However, he still made sure to hide snacks under a compartment he found under his bed. Nothing comes for free after all. What would be the final price for a family? He prayed to every deity that it was something he could pay. It would hurt to lose them.

It was ironic really that the demons had treated him with more courtesy than his human peers. Occasionally it made him giggle that he feared the very same creatures whom he loved, but he wasn't part of them. Sure he has tried his best to integrate into their world, but he was still clueless and Sullivan hadn't made it a priority to educate him on the matter. Though he did allow him to go to school, Iruma made sure to thank him every day.

The school was wonderful. The highlight of his time here. It was frightening sometimes when he was reminded of the demon's true nature, but he had finally made friends for the first time. Friends who tried their best to fill the gaps of his knowledge without judgment. Friends whom he had to lie to every day.

He hated that part. It felt wrong to deceive them, for them to think that he was an equal. It was why he reverted back to his old habit. He couldn't allow them to leave his grasp and so he must do whatever he could to help and please them. It seemed to have worked thus far. He wished he could truly be what they believed of him.

His mind went to Asmodeus. His first friend and first fight. Their original encounter still played out in his mind. He couldn't believe he almost died on his very first day at Babyls! Still it was unrefutable that the opposite was now true. Asmodeus was always by his side allowing Iruma to lean on him.

His unwavering loyalty — much like Opera’s — terrified him. Would he think the same if he found out the truth or would he discard him like-. He derailed that train of thought as he felt his eyes blur.

Wet tears rolled down his face. Oh. He didn't realise he was crying. He clamped down on his mouth lest anyone in the household overheard him. Apparently, demons have exceptionally sensitive hearing. Choking down his tears, he gripped his hands together and closed his eyes.

Asmodeus, Clara, Opera and Sullivan. He already knew the pain of losing a family. He didn't want to feel it again, but he was resigned to it. It was inevitable. The moment Sullivan got bored of having a grandson he would be tossed away but his friends. He hadn't made friends before. He didn't know if he could survive losing them. Especially Asmodeus. He wasn't sure why losing him in particular caused his heart to turn ice cold but he had to prevent them from happening. No matter what.

It looked like he had unconsciously made a new dream, not that he disliked it. He needed a plan. Perhaps Ali would help? He stroked his fingers around the ring bound to him and softly pleaded for him to emerge.

Chapter Text

Within the ring of gluttony Ali hummed to himself. Sure he technically had to obey Iruma when he called but the young boy had yet to figure out that particular tidbit so it allowed him some leeway as to exactly when he chose to appear. Not that he was trying to hide away from him, he just had some things to work through.

Gaining the ability to talk was not part of his plan yet here he was, talking. Fortunately, he managed to convince Iruma to keep that a secret; it wouldn't do for any of the other demons to figure out that he wasn’t just a power-hungry entity. Although he was hungry, currently he was semi-satisfied. If Iruma continues climbing up the ranks though it wouldn't stay that way for long.

It was freeing, however, being able to voice his thoughts. It was getting irritating having Iruma play guessing games and clearly, he sucked at them. At least the boy thought they were partners, that really helped smooth things along. He couldn't perceive the outside world from within the ring but he could still sense emotions and personal intentions. Iruma seemed off-balance somehow. It wasn’t good to stay in the dark, so he prepared himself to come out and figure out whether it would be a hindrance or not.

A familiar red bedroom came into view but rather than an excitable smiling boy a kneeling Iruma greeted him. It wasn't that unusual but the dark aura surrounding him was odd. Still, he put on his usual personality. It wouldn't be good for him to get suspicious.

‘Eh?! You only call me out for your own needs, Iruma, that's way too selfish. I have feelings you know!’ He floated over and lightly struck his head with his hand as he continued‘ It's so lonely all alone in that cold ring with nobody to talk to. It’s too unfair. Iruma gets friends and ignores his poor partner.’

There was no reply, instead, Iruma tightened his kneeling and slowly looked up. It was now that Ali noticed his weepy eyes. He abruptly stopped his spiel. How peculiar. The only time he had seen Iruma so serious was during the evil cycle he induced. He brought himself closer to the boy, their eyes meeting. His face was reflected in the deep blue pupils.

‘Hey what’s wrong Iruma, this ain't exactly like you kid’’

The sunken eyes that met his own were almost dilated.

‘Ali, I’m sorry to ask this of you. I know that I don't deserve your help but I-’ Iruma cut himself off seemingly gathering his thoughts once again.

‘I’ve never had a family before nor friends. Or a partner like you, and I can't live with myself if I lose anyone so will you please help me prevent that. I’ll do anything just please-’ this time his pleading was accompanied with a sob.

With a sigh, Ali floated away from the boy and seemed to cross his legs mid-air. He had been surprised by the truthful admission, not that he didn't suspect anything before what with all of Iruma’s odd behaviour but this practically confirmed it. The boy has never forged relationships with others before. How marvellously interesting.

He couldn't really refuse to aid him although he wondered what Iruma’s response would be if he did. No, no, he would have to play his cards right if this was to go to plan. This boy was about to place his absolute trust in him, something demons under no circumstances did. Humans remained to be such naive creatures, though this Iruma really takes the cake.

A small smirk made its way across his face. He knew exactly what do to.

‘With a pitiful face like that, how can I say no, eh Iruma? You said you would do anything?’

'Anything you as Ali’

Ali let out a gentle laugh. What an absolute treat this was turning out to be.

‘Let me think about it first. I’ll come up with a good plan partner. For now just aim for normalcy, okay’

Furtively wiping his tears Iruma had nodded and began to thank him profusely before he stood up and retreated into the toilet. Ali seized the chance to lay on the bed. What he needed was control but with him being bound to the ring it was all but impossible to get that ,but now, it could all change.

Sitting up he stroked his chin. So Iruma was being selfish for once. He knew there had to be some feelings beneath that smiling facade but for something so noble? How sickening. It wasn't like the demons around the boy cared all that much but clearly, this was inadvertently causing some anxiety. Now just how should he exploit that. Humans were so different from demons it was hard to use the normal plan-. Different. Yes, they are different, in fact; they're so different that they don't exist in the same realm.

A door clicked signifying Iruma’s return. Ali beckoned him towards the bed and the boy almost tripped as he ran towards him.

“Tell me Iruma, how would you say you're settling into the netherworld?”

The boy hummed at the question and with a wobbly smile answered “Well it was odd at first but I think I’m slowly getting the hang of pretending to be a demon”

It was like the boy knew exactly what he wanted him to say. Ali grinned “ Keyword pretending. Because you're, not a demon are you Iruma, you're a human through and through. You don't even look like one or act like one. Without me you'd be found out like this,” he snapped his fingers.

Iruma’s smile dropped at this and he glanced away almost guilty.

'Alright here's what we're going to do. Tomorrow I want you to record every difference you can detect between you and your fellow peers at Babyls and report back to me in the evening. I’m not all-knowing you know, we need some info before I can help, kapeesh?”

Iruma stood up with renewed determination ‘ Ok! I’ll write down everything Ali, just count on me!”

“Good, now go to bed you look like you're about to collapse.”

Sheepishly Iruma began preparing for slumber while Ali promptly returned within the confines of the ring. Phase one will begin tomorrow.

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The next morning crept upon them deceptively, the warm sun shining brilliantly and gently waking Iruma up before his alarm clock began its screeching. Surprisingly had slept rather soundly despite his personal mission. He had to do this subtlety, otherwise, he’d really be found out and everything would come crashing down.

Breakfast was the usual affair, towers of steaming hot eggs, porridge and of course meat. Recently Iruma had developed a habit of overindulging in food, but he couldn't help it. His survival instincts came into play at mealtimes and nothing could curb his habit.

It was second nature to eat everything available to conserve energy. You never know when your next meal is. Sullivan and Opera had never denied him food though, even now he heard their encouragement to eat more.

The food in the netherworld was delicious and practically a delicacy compared to the plants he used to scavenge for in his youth. Although it wasn't all bad, one of his jobs had provided both food and money for a salary and if he performed particularly well he was allowed hot meals.

The netherworld hadn't required a performance as of yet, though, and he was not about to ask. His mission came back to mind; he had to ensure his place. Sure he was Sullivan’s grandson now but that was in name and contract. They didn't share blood. In fact, they didn't share much at all, he still had no idea what the demon’s hobbies were or what exactly his job as chairman entailed. Opera even more so.

Gradually he put down his spoon and interrupted the demon’s cooing “ Say, Grandpa, I have a question. Please answer honestly. Why, why do you even want a human grandson? Couldn't you have just taken in a demon, surely it would have been easier..”

He trailed off as Sullivan sighed and took a sip of tea. The demon appeared resigned to the question as if he was expecting it. In the corner Opera’s ears pricked up, looks like he wasn't the only one curious.

“I never got the chance to have children, nor will I ever be able to. But it's in my nature to want to dote on a child you know, and I’m not as busy in my old age. I can finally devote myself to you! Besides it was all so convenient how could I say no? We were fated to be family” he flashed a toothy grin, his fangs glinting.

He avoided the key question then. Convenience huh. So it was all a big coincidence for him. Iruma had to remain convenient for his sake then. Though he wondered how much truth was in those words. Lying by omission was becoming a trend with Sullivan. He accepted the answer with a light chuckle and focused on eating again to avoid raising suspicion.

He had signed the contract without reading it. He hoped that it really was truthful, but Sullivan hadn't given him the chance to look at it. He couldn't overlook these subtle acts of deception no matter how much the demon seemed to shower him with affection. Clearly, he was missing something, even Opera looked vaguely conflicted at the answer. At least he wasn’t alone in his ignorance this time, a rare occurrence.

A demon with a mortal grandson. A secret divulged amongst a select few. He recalled the demon’s trip to border control; this wasn't normal at all, even by the netherworld’s standard. Could he be forced to leave them because of that? Taken away and made to forget everyone?

Surely there had to be a solution beyond concealing his true nature. Sullivan was a teth, so he wasn't lacking in any magical abilities. In fact, he was the ideal candidate to support him, but he seemed content with Iruma relying on the ring of gluttony and his special perfume. Although he wasn't completely mistaken, relying on Ali was all he could do right now. His secret partner. They’d come up with a plan together.

Frantically he concluded his meal, thanked Opera who didn't smile but bowed to him gracefully and rushed out the house. He had a mission to do if he was to even reach a solution, he couldn't waste time pondering why Sullivan wasn't doing it. He could do it himself, like always. Completely relying on adults was a mistake he’d never make.

As he rushed to avoid the carriage, he crashed into a pile of soft pink hair while a high-pitched giggle met his ear. Oh. He had forgotten about that particular detail in his rush.

“Master Iruma! Are you ok? Are you injured? I humbly apologise for being in your way” Asmodeus clutched him preventing him from falling. His head was smothered within the demon’s white coat which smelt distinctly of ash.

He almost cried in frustration. There’s absolutely no way he could do this subtlety! Still, he had to try for Ali, if he could survive Babyls then he could endure this. Untangling himself he looked up at his friend who was getting more agitated by the second and let out a laugh.

“I’m completely fine Azz; I should apologise for banging into you! I wasn’t looking where I was going.”

“ Irumachin! Irumachin that was great! We should play bumpers all day long” Clara butted in proceeding to purposely ram her head at them like a tiny puppy.

Asmodeus began scolding her while Iruma let out a soft sigh. They were so passionate in the mornings…
He braced himself for their school day as they began walking their journey.

Accompanying them was a hum of chatter and a faint breeze, the source of which being the rest of their peers as they glided in like sky. They looked like they were having fun. He wondered if his friends secretly preferred flying as a method of transportation. He was the one selfishly grounding them.

Another way he didn't fit in, not completely.