Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

'How did I end up in here? I need to get away from here! They’re gonna find out! ........Why is my shirt lifting up? Wait-' 

"NO DON'T-" 

Collective gasps from the teachers

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Iruma Suzuki, age 14, has found himself in trouble. A great challenge any high schooler must face. Yes... Iruma is facing the dreaded... FINAL EXAM. Now this wouldn't be such a huge problem for most students, except for the fact that Iruma has never gone to school before Babirus. Meaning he has absolutely no studying skills at all. Why should he? It's not like he was doing everything he had to do to survive all the dangerous situations his parents put him through. Pssh yeah that's just crazy talk.

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'Mom, Dad, why?' Iruma thought in his head as he cried to himself; watching his soul leave his body behind.

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Asmodeus Alice, one of the top students in not only the Abnormal Class, but among the first years as well. How would he react to seeing just how bad Iruma is at school? Would he laugh? Would he be shocked into silence? Is he disappointed with Iruma?! 

Answer, blatantly ignore all signs and cry his heart out to Iruma since the image of him being the next demon king is still seared in his mind.

Az-kun...... please...

"I'm sure you can ace the tests!! I will help you in anything you don't understand Iruma-sama!" 

"Whaa- UH, thank you Az-kun?" 

Oh Alice, when will you realize, Iruma isn't any old demon off the block. 

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Iruma Suzuki, age 14, deceased after one day of "studying".

'I just don't understand anything said in the textbooks. What is this written in? Ancient Greek?' Iruma heads down to the dining room, thinking maybe some food will help. 

"Do you want me to tell you what's on the test?" Grandpa says to Iruma, and honestly, he doesn't think that would help him. "Or if possible, we'll give Iruma-kun only the easy questions!"

'Grandpa nooooo, please, I couldn't even get the easy questions right. Plus, I don't want to be caught cheating.'  Iruma thought to himself as he thunked his head on the dining room table.

"There is no need to go so far for Iruma-sama. He will definitely score the test with F.L.Y.I.N.G C.O.L.O.U.R.S." Opera, Iruma can't deny that when you say it with such confidence and expectation. 

weeps heartbrokenly

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A classroom, filled with heavy tension, and every young demon with a book in their hands, "Um..." Asmodeus Alice looks upon the strange scene unfolding before him. "Let's leave them alone Iruma-sama. Let's study together instead and see what you need help with!" 

"Ye-yes! Ok let's do this!" The naively stupidly innocent little blue boy shouted with nervous enthusiasm.

One quizzing session later

'I'm gonna die.... none of these make any sense. How am I supposed to know what any of this is?' Iruma groans and bonks his head on the desk. 'I'm HUMAN... yeah right as if I could tell them that. I might get eaten or worse......................waaaahhhhh.' 

Iruma Suzuki, yet again defeated by his greatest enemy, school work. 

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Study High; the pleasure of scoring full points on something that it causes the person to get a big head on their shoulders.

NOW... Who do you think became an idiot after scoring full marks on a subject he would obviously know everything about? 

Is it, (A) Shax Leid, (B) Saboro Sabnock, (C) Keroli Crocell, or (D) None of the above? 

Place your bets down people! 50 grim for the winner! 

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The answer?

D: OF COURSE BECAUSE IT WAS IRUMA SUZUKI THE WHOLE TIME! 

Again, smile and wave boys because Azu-Azu over here is blatantly ignoring the strangeness of Iruma's lack of netherworld common knowledge.

Which brings us to the point before disaster strikes. 

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You know how there are moments in your life where you look back and go, "Yep, should not have done that lol," as sweat drips down your body.

This was one of those moments.

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'Clara, Az-kun, and I are walking to Darry sensei's class on "Demonic History." Everything is going great! I somehow got full marks on that "Imaginary Creatures" textbook! So then, that must mean I might have a talent for things like this! Az-kun said so and everyone else in class did too!' Iruma happily thinks as he's walking with a pep in his step. Only Dali sensei isn't in class, it's.... Balam sensei? 

"Isn't that...." 

"Ahaha Iruma-sama, maybe we should come back another time." 

"Don't worry Az-kun, I'm sure Balam sensei is-" 

slither slither up in the air 

'AH! STOP! WAIT! NO! HUH?! WHO-' Is all Iruma can think as he's lifted up into the air by an unknown entity.

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'Ahaha... I guess Balam is just a touchy guy? Phew, at least he didn't seem to notice anything. Haha......... I really wish he'd take these vines off my back.' Iruma could feel his danger sense wanting to trigger. It was all so itchy and kept creeping up on him. He couldn't pay any amount of attention to what sir Balam was spouting at the front of the class. He was bordering on heavy breathing to hyperventilating. These touches, the points of contact between him and the vines, were nothing like the touches he'd get from Clara or the other members of the Abnormal Class. Nothing like Grandpa's. He didn't like it.

"Creatures like imaginary beings.....The research of imaginary beings.....vastly unexplored place...possible that new........DO YOU KNOW WHAT IMAGINARY BEINGS EAT!?" 

"UWAH! UH-" Iruma startles out of his inner struggling when Balam sensei's voice suddenly yells out.

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'Balam sensei is just going over what humans are. Phew, I guess it's good that I'm human. Maybe learning from him won't be so bad.' Iruma thinks, finally gaining a bit of clarity of his situation.

'This Balam person is certainly one to look out for. Grabbing Iruma-sama like that! Oooh, at least you're keeping to yourself now.'  Alice huffs in his mind, giving watchful glares towards the eccentric teacher.

'BALALA SENSEI GIVE PATS! HEHEHE BALA BALA SENSEI MUST WANT TO PLAY TOO!' Clara was all too happy and excited to be in the hold of the demon and his vines to really take notice of the two others she was with.

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"But the demon world is a very dangerous ecosystem, that's why demons have evolved to gain tails and wings." Balam sensei drones on while walking towards his new students. "Even without horns, with wings at least you could es...ca...pe...HUH?!"

'I really should be paying attention to what Balam sensei is saying but I already know all of this. Hmmmm, maybe I can pass with just getting- UH WHAT IS TOUCHING MY-' 

"AHHHH!"  
"WHOA!?"

Balam and Iruma yelp out at the same time, equally shocked over what is happening.

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'WH-WHERE ARE WE GOING?! OH NO BALAM SENSEI! WAIT, NO STOP! WHAT'S HAPPENING?!?!' Iruma's mind screams, his senses going haywire as his head spins dizzily. Balam sensei is forcefully carrying Iruma on his shoulder. He's running so fast, turning this way and that, making Iruma lose all sense of direction. 'Ugh, I feel like I'm going to throw up.' Suddenly they burst through a pair of heavy doors, startling everyone inside. 'It's...the faculty room? Why- No wait, first I need to get off of sir Balam.'

"THIS IS BAD!! THIS KID HAS NO WINGS!!" Balam shouts in a loud panicked voice as he swings the doors open.

'UAAAHAHAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!' Iruma's panic only increases.

"Balam sensei what are you saying? No wings?" A young feminine voice speaks out, concern very evident along with the shock and surprise of the door being slammed open.

"Yes, they're probably just in his back." A low, deep voice speaks out afterward, also quite shaken but much more composed than the first.

"THE ROOTS AREN'T THERE! FEEL FOR THEM." Balam insists.

'How did I end up in here?! I need to get away from here! They're gonna find out!........ Why is my shirt lifting? ... Wait...' 

"NO DON'T-" 

Collective gasps from the teachers

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(Talk about back scars)
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Iruma Suzuki, age 14, attack: 0, defense: ∞. 

That is... only a recent achievement. You see, Iruma wasn't simply born with the ability to dodge everything that came his way. He was forced to learn how to dodge all sorts of dangers. To the point where it became second- practically first nature to him. Iruma Suzuki...... wasn't always lucky enough to escape a dangerous situation unscathed. He's suffered, and suffered hard from the consequences of his negligent "parents." He's scarred... He's hurt.... And these scars... will never go away. And that is exactly what he had been trying so hard to hide from everyone, even his adopted grandpa and Opera. And now... everyone will know. Everyone will know that, Iruma Suzuki isn't super strong, and that he didn't train to dodge so well out of some self-fulfilling achievement... no... Iruma had to have this ability in order to survive . 

"Wha-what is this?" The female teacher says horrified. 

"His back... it's..." Said the male teacher this time. 

"Iruma... How did this happen?" Balam, you shouldn't have done this. 

Iruma quickly pulls his shirt back on and runs as fast as his legs can carry him. He can't see, he can't breathe, he feels nothing... nothing but pain and panic. Everything is blurred around him. 'The lights are too bright. The sounds of everything, too loud. Hide. I need to hide. I need to run away. I need to protect myself. Please... stop. Don't look... Don't look at me! DON'T AT LOOK ME!' 

Chapter Text

In my panic crazed run, I had inevitably ran into someone. Whoever it was, they’re sturdy. Ugh now my face is stinging. I should apologize and hurry on out of here. 

“Oof, Iruma?” Lightly questions a familiar voice.

“A-Ameri? Oh my- I'm so sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m-” Iruma starts rapidly while bowing again and again towards the student council president.

“Iruma! It’s alright. What’s going on? Are you ok?” And oh, didn’t you know that would reopen the floodgates? 

“I-I-sor-” I couldn’t get a single word out, just continued to bawl my eyes out. 

“Ah! UH, ok, come here Iruma.” Ameri gently grabbed my hands and walked me somewhere. I heard a door close behind me. Ameri goes to offer me a handkerchief. I wipe my eyes as clear as I can of tears... and unfortunately snot too. I shouldn’t give this back to her like this. 

“Iruma come sit down. I’ll prepare some Hell Grey tea and snacks.” She pointed me to a chair. I sat down and finally got a good look at my surroundings. It’s the room where I read Ameri First Love Memories .  

“Here you go.” She calmly says as she gives me a cup of freshly made Hell Grey tea.

“Thank you Ameri.” I say to her barely above a whisper. It seems she still heard me. She’s brought another chair over and sits down near me, taking a sip of her own cup of Hell Grey tea. We sit in silence for a while before I finally ask her why she’s doing all of this for. 

“Iruma, you were clearly in distress. And as the student council president, it is my duty to ensure that the students of Babirus are given an environment where they feel safe and can learn.” I nod along to her words, numbly nibbling on the cookies she prepared. 

“And... I was worried about you, personally.” She mumbles out under her breath looking off to the side.

“Worried? About me?” 

“Of course, I was worried Iruma! You were running like you were being hunted down! You were crying so hard I thought you’d pass out from dehydration! How could I not be worried!?” She yells out sporadically waving her hands as she looks directly at me.

I flinched hard at her raised voice. Ameri instantly lowered her hands and voice. Instead speaking to me in a way that I can’t ignore. 

“Iruma...can you please tell me what has happened for you to act this way? It’s extremely out of character.” 

‘Please... Please... Please...’ The word rings in my head, wrapping itself tightly on my neck. Suffocating me.

“I- I- I'm sorry Ameri. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. Ameri, I- please- don't-” I can’t tell her. I can’t. It’s too much. But she said 'please'. No, I can't. I’m sorry Ameri. Please don’t hate me. 

Iruma starts to hyperventilate again. Conflicted between spilling everything out because Ameri said please and keeping his secret a secret. The pounding is getting louder. Head heavy with muck. It’s absolutely suffocating. 

“Shhh. It’s ok. I promise everything will be okay Iruma. You don’t have to tell me anything.” Ameri had leapt from her chair when Iruma’s panic came back. She wrapped her arms around him, holding his head near her heart. Petting his hair in a way she hopes is comforting. Thankfully, Iruma calms down. 

‘Ameri, her heartbeat is so nice. I feel like I could fall asleep to it.’ 

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*turning back time like Clara did with mini Iruma*

"IRUMA WAIT! COME BACK!" Balam says going to run to the boy and bring him back. That is until Robin steps in front of him, effectively stopping him.

"I don't think we should chase after him right now Balam sensei!" Robin said. He was holding his arms out, face indecipherable.

"But-"

"Robin sensei is right. We should not go after him right now." Momonoki agrees, still horrified by the things she saw.

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(AYO WE GONNA BE EXPLAINING IRU'S SCARS)
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When Iruma was younger, say about 8 years old, his parents had gotten involved in some particularly dangerous people from a money scheme gone wrong. And who was there to deal with the consequences of their actions? Little Iruma.

Since being put into so many dangerous situations before, you'd think Iruma would be able to get away from this one just like always. Unfortunately, Iruma had not been eating or sleeping well. And these people, were far worse than any demon Iruma would meet in the future.

He'd been on the run for a week at this point and reaching his limit. Just a small nap, that's all he'd need to keep going on a little longer. Just a small nap, was enough for them to find him. Just a small nap for them to hurt Iruma so bad he'd be in the hospital for months afterwards. Not to mention the mentality left behind after such an experience. He'd never be the same.

You'd think at this point his parents would make a fully 180 in their behavior towards Iruma. No. Never. Why should they? They're happily enjoying themselves on a trip in Paris to the fullest. Of course, Iruma would never tell them about what happened to him when they came back. He'd apologize for not being able to make enough money for them to keep on their lifestyle.

It's his fault for being so irresponsible after all. His fault that whipping welts and other injuries left behind would never go away. It was his fault for not being good enough to earn his parents love and affection.

Iruma should have done better. And so, he became better at dodging, better at running away, better at earning money for his parents. He became better at hiding away the pain and suffering he'd go through. A nice broad smile every time his parents or really anyone ever looked his way. They'd praise him for being such a good young man.

Besides, what else is there in the world for him to do?

Chapter Text

After suddenly falling asleep in lounge, Iruma woke up confused. It took him a minute before his mind caught up. He profusely apologized to Ameri for being so rude and for making her look after him. Ameri again said that he had no reason to apologize. He then excused himself and quickly made his way home, alone.

Ameri had tried to keep him there with her or at the very least allowed her to accompany him home. And yet, Iruma insisted he was fine after getting it all out and just wanted to get home. And who was she to keep on persisting after the meltdown that happened a few hours prior? 

And what of the teachers? What happened after they decided to not chase after a distressed Iruma? Gather everything they knew about the situation and report it to the one person who might know about Iruma’s lack of wings and scars. Principal Lord Sullivan of course, and Opera, his right hand and constant presence. 

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The shock of everything that had transpired in less than five minutes took all the teachers a good while to come out of. How was it that a student, let alone Iruma, the principal's grandson, to have gone through school without anyone knowing. They quickly got to work with discussing everything. Balam, Robin, Momonoki, and Bulshenko all decided that Balam should be the one to go since he was the one that initially noticed Iruma's lack of wings. The others stayed behind, ready to follow should they be called upon. After all, this was a clear case of ---------, and of someone who was part of the Sullivan household. To say matters were delicate, would be the greatest understatement since the absence of the Demon King.

As Balam marches his way to the principal's office, people are immediately steering clear of his war path. While most people are intimidated by the demon, Balam has never outwardly acted hostile towards anyone. Balam is completely enraged by what he saw. The way Iruma reacted, shattered his heart with guilt, rage, and sadness. He was going to get to the bottom of this, no demon, let alone a child, should go through something so horrific that the very practice of it is BANNED.

'As soon as I can, I will offer the greatest apology I can to Iruma. I should never have done that to him. I was a fool for rushing things and forcing Iruma to reveal such a thing to so many. Forcing him to reveal it at all. Iruma I am deeply sorry for my actions, I hope you'll be able to forgive me. I wouldn't blame you if you couldn't.' 

As soon as he reached the door, Balam paused and knocked with as much restraint as possible. After all, this is the rumored next demon king, he'd be dead long before he could step foot inside if he didn't keep his presence in check. Although, there was still an essence of teetering blind rage just below the surface of the gentle giant. Opera, of course, opened the door and allowed Balam inside. Walking in, Balam kneeled and addressed Sullivan. 

"Lord Sullivan, I've come here to report grievous news." 

Sensing the seriousness, Sullivan did not default to his happy go lucky attitude like he normally would. Of course he sensed Balam's rage, it was completely out of the ordinary but perhaps he had been triggered into his evil cycle? His expression hardened and nodded towards to Balam to continue. Even Opera became a little more alert at the reaction, ready to do whatever they had to do.

"Please listen to everything I have to say and I'll bear the consequences since it was my fault that all of this happened." 

*one explanation later brought to you by Walter Park entertainment* 

"Balam." The mere mention of his name in that moment when he finished his explanation could have brought him down to knees if he weren't already on the ground. And just as quickly as the dark aura came, it faded into nothing, like it was never to begin with. 

"Thank you for informing me about this." 

"Ah? You are welcome?" Balam said in a somewhat confused tone. He had slightly expected for his head to be lobbed off his body or some sort of punishment.

"Opera." Sullivan addressed the security devil in a calm even manner.

"Yes, Lord Sullivan?" Without another word between the two demons, Opera nodded and left the room. If Balam was on a war path before, Opera was going to destroy worlds. There was absolutely nothing that could or would be able to get their way. Crimson eyes glow alight like an inferno.

"Balam, who else knows about this?" 

"Momonoki sensei, Robin sensei, and Bulshenko sensei." Balam said bowing to Sullivan a slight tremble to his words.

'Momonoki, Robin, and Bulshenko, my office. Now.' Sullivan contacted the aforementioned demons with magic. In an instant said teachers appeared before Balam and Sullivan. All of them looking on with deep concern. 

"Now that everyone is here, I need to know if any of you have spilled this outside of yourselves." A smile was on his face, imitating a calm manner veiling the steady growth of danger.

"No Lord Sullivan." All of them stated in unison. 

"Good. Because this is to stay between us. For now, anyways." Although he appeared cheerful, the underlying promise of their demise was very apparent. 

"Lord Sullivan, if I may." Momonoki spoke out, quietly. Sullivan tilted his head for her to go on. 

"Were- were you not aware of this? Is Iruma not your grandson?" A simple gesture had her looking down and apologize. 

"Yes, Iruma is my grandson. However, I will tell you this, he is adopted." 

"Adopted?" Everyone questioned, it was not something they had heard before. 

"It means we are not related by blood and that he comes from a different family. Under certain circumstances, Iruma has come into my official care, making him my grandson." 

"That... makes sense." Bulshenko accepts with the others nodding along.

"And as for your first question Momonoki sensei, I am not at liberty to discuss it at the moment. As you can see, it is an extremely personal issue. Just know that Iruma is now under my care, so he will be safe and protected, and has been since he became my grandson." 

All the teachers could hear the secondary meaning behind his words. They were relieved that Iruma was no longer in whatever situation he was in that caused him to lose his wings. They could believe in Lord Sullivan. Yes, he was eccentric and playful, but once he gives his word, it's final. Lord Sullivan never breaks his promise, its one of the reasons why he was looked at as the most likely Demon King candidate.

"With that in mind, all of you are dismissed. No one is trouble. Continue on with your duties." 

And so, everyone left one by one, promising to keep this a secret. Sullivan waved them off. When the door closed behind the last person to leave, Sullivan lost control of his anger. Let's just say, his office was needing a remodeling anyways, this just gave him excuse to follow through.

Chapter Text

Iruma arrives home and is greeted by Opera as usual. He’s too exhausted to notice the way Opera’s ears tilt downward and their tail twitch towards him. He makes his way to his room and collapses on the huge canopy. Ali finally comes out if the ring of gluttony. 

“Iru-boy? What was all of that?” He says softly, prompting the boy to open up to him.

“Not right now Ali-san.” 

“But Iruma-” 

“Ali-san. Please. Not right now.” 

“Hm, alright.” Ali gives Iruma one last look before he goes back into the ring. Right then a knock came from the door. 

“Iruma-sama, dinner is ready.” Opera, while they are seething at the fact that someone could do such a thing to Iruma, didn’t want to upset the poor boy further. Hoping that he would be up for eating dinner still. Opera had prepared an extra special dinner with all of Iruma’s favorites. 

“Ah. Opera...can I eat dinner in my room today?” 

“Yes, that is fine.” 

Iruma is most definitely not ok. And Opera would be damned if they can’t do anything to help their precious ball of sunshine. Opera brings up Iruma’s dinner and watches him eat. Hoping for a moment that they could approach Iruma and comfort him.

‘Iruma is hardly touching his food. Balam is lucky I don’t go and end him myself.’ 

“Iruma-sama, is the food not to your liking? I can go and fetch you something else if you’d like?” 

“No no! Everything is fantastic as always. I love eating your food Opera. Sorry, I’m just not that hungry.” 

“Right. Then should I clear it away?” 

“Yeah, sorry Opera. I think I’ll be turning in early. Thank you for taking the time to make all of this.” 

“It is no trouble Iruma-sama. I could prepare a light herbal sleeping tea. It’s very relaxing and has a sweet taste to it.” 

“Sure. I’m glad you’re here Opera.” 

And with that Opera leaves before the tears come bursting out, or as bursting as they can be to the ever-constant straight-faced demon. There’s not much in the world that can move them. Iruma is one of the only exceptions. They take the upmost care when preparing the tea, making sure its natural sweetness comes through. 

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*while Iruma still asleep and before he made his way home* 

Opera watches on, eyes completely zoned in on their target. Their ears will catch all conversation being had. They will get the answers they seek out, no matter what. It's a good thing they are red colored.....this might get messy. 

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Sullivan arrives home after Iruma has gone to his room. Opera gives their report. There's not much, yet, but it's only the beginning. They need to proceed carefully, ensure no one, especially demon border control, catches wind. 

"How is Iruma?" Sullivan whispers to Opera.

"I was just about to inform him that dinner is ready. Other than that, he...... couldn't even look at me when he came home." 

"My dear grandson..." He clutches his heart, that menacing aura leaking out. Opera takes a step back.

"It's evident he'd been crying." They let out, a near unnoticeable tremble in their voice.

"We will help him." 

"Of course, Lord Sullivan." 

They part ways and Sullivan is sad but understanding when Opera tells him that Iruma will not be dining with him tonight. It's best to give him some space. 

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The next morning, Iruma wakes up...feeling like he'd been hit by several cars. It takes him longer than usual to get up and ready for the day. Opera knocks again and tells him breakfast has been laid out. Iruma exits his room and slowly makes his way to the dining room. Opera following closely behind. 

"Good morning Iruma-kun!" Sullivan cheerfully greets his grandson and goes to hug him but stops just before. Iruma...... flinched at his actions......he.... flinched? 

"Good morning, Grandpa!" Iruma says, smiling his usual smile? No, it's forced. That.... is not Iruma's award winning smile. 

"Thank you for the food!" It's clear that Iruma is trying his best to act like his usual self. Why is he hiding this from them? Sullivan wishes Iruma would tell them what happened. He'd rather not make Iruma feel that has too though.

"Iruma-kun! When you are finished would you like to ride with Grandpa on the carriage on your way to school? Of course, Asmodeus and Clara are welcome to come along!" 

"That's ok Grandpa. I'll be walking with them like always." And that smile, that damn smile, it crushes their hearts and bleeds them dry. 

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" Iruma-chi! " 

" Iruma-sama! " 

" We've come to pick you up! " 

" Time for school Iruma-chi! " 

"I'm coming! Good morning, Az-kun! Good morning, Clara!" Iruma hurriedly walks towards the two demons. He gives them hie best smile and starts walking to school. 

'Everything is fine. Everything is alright. No one suspects-' 

" Iruma-sama... is everything alright? " 

" Yeah! You ok Iruma-chi? " 

'Uuuagh... what am I supposed to say?' 

"Yep! All's good! Let's get going!" And he begins marching, taking center lead of the group. Az and Clara look at each other, worry plastered on their faces. 

" Ooook? If you say so. " The two relented, in sync. 

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Balam can't stop thinking about the sin he committed. While, yes, he was not the one to have inflicted those wounds on young Iruma, but he did exposed them for all to see. He's caused that demon pain beyond what he could ever imagine. Pacing back and forth, Balam ponders how to contact Iruma to apologize to him. 

'What class was he in again? Who is his teacher? Maybe I can sneak him away for a few minutes?' 

Looking through the records, Balam finds what he is looking for. Deciding to go through with this plan, Balams heads for the Abnormal Class. 

'I'm in luck that it's Kalego who their teacher.' 

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'I'm ok. Everything is ok. I am fine. I am safe. I am alright. I can get through this. I just need to learn this and pass my exams. Then everything will be better. I can do this. I can do this. I can-' 

" Iruma-sama? " Az-kun says, why is his face so full of worry? It's probably because it's the fifth time he's had to explain this to me. I mean how am I supposed to know how many devil tree flower petals are used for a confusion potion? None apparently since I'm more confused than I was before we sat down to study. 

" It's fine if this is too hard right now. We can take a break and try again later. " As he says that Clara is already pulling out snacks from her pockets. 

" Here ya go Iruma-chi! These will lift your spirits right away! " 

"Hah... No, that's ok. We can keep going. I've almost got it. I just need a little more time!" 

" But Iruma- " 

"It's fine! I'll get it soon! I promise! Let's just... continue." 

Chapter Text

Asmodeus Alice, while he may be willfully ignorant of many of Iruma’s strangeness, writing it off as due to his sheltered life, this was not something he cou- would ignore. And he felt that Valac agrees with him, he face frowning towards their blue-haired friend. 

“Iru-”  

“Iruma.” Kalego sensei’s voice rang out suddenly.  

“Y-yes sensei?”  

That’s when all three zero in on the figure near their homeroom teacher. It’s Balam sensei. He was not expecting to see him at all, especially with the way that class went. Now that he thinks about it, neither Balam nor Iruma returned the day prior. Asmodeus had asked around for Iruma’s whereabouts but to no avail no one knew where he was. Even with the combined effort of himself and Valac, it was as if Iruma’s presence was nonexistent. Thankfully Opera had informed them that Iruma made it home. 

In the midst of his thinking, Iruma had approached the teachers. They were conversing about something and now they’re walking away? 

“Iruma-sama?”  

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“Iruma.” I heard Kalego sensei say out. I quickly break out of my turmoil and look up at him. He makes a motion telling me to go over to him. I get up and start heading over when I see that there’s someone else next to him.  

“Balam sensei?”  

“Iruma, I’m here to talk to you. Don’t worry, I’ve already got permission from Kalego here.”  

“Hmf. Go on.” They bump fists with each other and Balam starts guiding me out of the room.  

‘They must be friends... I didn’t think Kalego sensei had the capacity to be friends with anyone.’  

As if sensing my dig, I feel Kalego glare at me and I quickly leave the classroom before he has the chance to say anything.  

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The entire walk to wherever we were going was extremely awkward and nerve-wracking. I don’t like this. I don’t want to be alone. Not with- ok calm down. He’s a teacher of Babirus, he wouldn’t do anything to purposefully hurt me! ........right?  

We reach a door and I’m lead inside. It’s super cluttered with all sorts of plants, books, and other things I don’t know the name of. Suddenly Balam grabs me by the shoulders and... it’s... no... let go... let go... LET GO!  

I go to push him off but he lets go first.

“I’m sorry! Wait please! Let me explain!”  

I calm down and nod my head, I don’t want to listen but he said please.  

“First things first,” he removes his metal plating that covers his lower half of his face, “I wanted to apologize for what happened yesterday.”  

“So, I thought an apology wouldn’t be enough if you are still hurting. That’s why I decided to show you, my face.”  

“Oh.” Balam turns his head to the side, gently telling me to go on. It’s... not scary anymore. He’s... apologizing. Balam sensei...  

“Thank you- for telling me...and for apologizing.”  

“I’m glad. Truly, I should not have rushed into things like that, I am sorry Iruma.”  

He’s... so kind. Why was I ever afraid of him? I mean... I know why, but no one had ever apologized to me for hurting me and... it’s... so wonderful.  

“Ah! Wait! No-no, please don’t cry! Here a handkerchief! I’ll prepare tea that’ll help calm the nerves!”  

I didn’t even realize I’d started crying. Man, I’ve been a real crybaby lately, haven’t I? He hands me the handkerchief and scrambles to whip up some tea. It’s almost comical how worried he is, almost like a mother hen-  

“Pfft- hahahahahahahahaha!”  

“What’s so funny?”  

“Sorry, it’s just- hahahaha- sorry.” I’m holding a hand to my stomach and trying so hard to hold my laughter back. It takes a bit but eventually I’m able to look back up and speak again.  

“Sorry. I was just so worried, scared and anxious about being alone with you. And to hear you apologize and then run around scrambling to make something to make me feel better after crying. I couldn’t help but laugh at it all. You remind me of mother hens back in the human world.”  

“Oh, I see. Well, I’m glad that- wait did you say human world?”  

“Huh? Wait... UH, NO?”  

“Yes, you did! You said I remind you of mother hens from the human world!”  

“NO?!”

That went on for a while and at some point, it was revealed that I am human to Balam sensei. Which then proceeded into a lecture on not letting my guard down so much that I’d reveal something so important. Eventually though, I was able to leave with a lot picture books and lots of other helping study material once we got through all of that.  

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As soon as Iruma and his companions left for school, a certain cat demon went off to go continue their own mission. Tracking down the people who dared to harm the precious ball of sunshine. They would go immediately after Iruma’s parents; however, they are not at the top of the priority list...yet. No, they must go through the network of the yakuza to find the answers they need. And they will find the answers they are looking for.  

Is it illegal what they’re doing? Yes, without a doubt. However, laws be damned, Iruma’s recovery from this trauma starts with getting revenge on his attackers. They’re surprised by how much they’ve come to care for the kind human. Thankfully demon border patrol is unaware of the activities of what the Sullivan household is doing in the background. They’re honestly so troublesome.  

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Iruma manages to come back with half a day still left of school. As he eats with his friends, they notice his mood has improved greatly. Not entirely but certainly enough to be almost normal.  

“IRUMA-CHI! IRUMA-CHI! HERE TRY THIS! IT’S SUPER YUMMY!” Clara then forcefully shoves a spoonful of what looks to be beetle worm soup, then again, netherworld food looks horrendous at times but had always proven to be amazingly delicious.  

“Hey stupid Valac! Don’t do that! Iruma-sama will choke if you force it down his throat like that!”  

“Pfft- hahahahahahahahahaha!”  

They both look at Iruma and... well let’s just say they calmed down significantly, happy that Iruma is having fun with them again.  

Chapter Text

Iruma Suzuki, age 14, finds himself back where it all began. Where one of his deepest darkest secrets was revealed for all to see. 

It’s been a few days since the final exams. Things were peaceful... for the most part. Iruma managed to not fail his exams, although he really wished he did better on them. With all that had been happening, finding out Iruma’s scarred back, that all-consuming meeting with the principal, and grading exams, there was never a good time to sit down and talk. Talk about what happened between Iruma and the teachers that day in the lounge and as well as to properly apologize for their transgressions. That is until now. 

‘It’s really weird to be at school and not be in uniform.’ Iruma thought as he makes his way to the teacher’s lounge. He tries to occupy his mind with little things to distract himself from what’s to come. Of course, he knows some of why he’s here, though that doesn’t help settle the dread that’s slowly building up in his stomach. He keeps having to remind himself that no one at Babirus (at least the teachers) would intentionally hurt him. 

*knock knock* 

“Come in.” A woman’s voice could be heard from behind the door, it must be Momonoki sensei. 

“Uhm, hello.” Iruma says meekly as he enters the room and bows to all the teachers present. It’s almost like déjà vu, Robin, Bulshenko, and Balam are there too. They’re standing around waiting for him to come and take a seat. 

“Thank you for making the time to meet with us.” Momonoki sensei says bowing towards me. I hear a murmur of agreements from the others and similar bows directed to me. 

“Ah, it’s really no problem. I sort of figured this would happen sooner rather than later...” 

I finally sit down on the couch in the middle of the room and the rest follow suit. Balam to my right, Robin on my left, and Momonoki and Bulshenko sensei in front. It’s honestly a little suffocating. 

‘It’s ok Iruma. You are safe. They’re teachers from Babirus, not those people, it is okay.’ 

“Would like some Hell Grey tea, Iruma?” Balam quietly speaks out. It takes my mind a moment to register what he said but I said yes in the end. Tea and snacks get passed around, it seems like they’re trying to make me as comfortable as possible, it’s considerate, but really, we’re just stalling for time. No one has really said anything at this point and I can barely focus on whatever I’m eating right now. I can’t even taste it. 

Finally, someone speaks up after a minute or two of nibbling and sipping on the confectionaries. “Iruma, we are all here to apologize for what happened that day.” Bulshenko sensei lets out in his most sincere voice. 

“Yeah! We’re all really sorry for putting you through all of that Iruma! Especially right before the final exams!” Rang out Robin sensei’s loud voice, causing Iruma to flinch slightly due to the close proximity. It does not go unnoticed by him but decides to not mention it. The others follow suit in his decision.

“Iruma, I give my deepest and most sincere apology for the incident that occurred that day. I am sorry.” Momonoki sensei finishes off. 

Balam gives Iruma a look of reassurance, having already apologized, he doesn’t want to further this triad of regret. It’s just so much, too much, I... I don’t know what to do when confronted with such sincerity. I feel tears well up in my eyes. I don’t want to cry but the tears come whether I want them to or not. I take a moment to try and compose myself as much as I can before I speak up. 

“Thank you... so much for this. I appreciate hearing that from you all.” 

In that moment each teacher had the same passing thought, ‘I would die for this demon in order to keep seeing his brightness shine.’ 

“Now that we got that sorted out... Iruma we a have some more very serious things to talk about.” Bulshenko sensei looks me directly in eyes as he says so. “However, we understand if you are uncomfortable with speaking to us about.” 

“Uh, I’m fine?” Honestly, I'm not really sure on what we're going to talk about.

“Iruma.” Balam joins in, effectively catching my attention. “It’s... a very delicate matter... and well...” Balam knows that Iruma is human but has sworn to keep the guise of him being a demon going.

'It’s likely that Iruma will not know what we are about to discuss, but I must know how exactly he got those scars. I regret not being able to bring about that topic during our study meetings but I understand that it simply was not the time to do.'

“I’m going to be straightforward about this,” came out Momonoki sensei, “do you... know... what- uhm... g r o u n d i n g is?” Her voice became quieter and quieter with every word, to the point where one had to strain their ears to hear the final two words. She’s trembling, using everything in herself to shake as little as possible, and the same goes for everyone else in this room. 

Unfortunately, it was at that very moment that a certain homeroom teacher walks in at the same time that Iruma lets out an, “What does grounding mean?” 

A stack of papers could be heard smacking down on the ground making everyone turn their heads to newly arrived Kalego sensei. Now, Kalego doesn’t have very many faces that don’t include a level of sadism or dread, but this face... it’s one not even Balam sensei has ever seen before. 

“What did you just say?!” Kalego exclaims barely above his normal speaking volume. The expression he wears is one filled with absolute unadulterated horror... there’s even a faint glimmer of guilt. 

Everyone felt their stomach drop into the deepest parts of the Netherworld. Iruma however, honestly believes he might have died right then and there. Carefully, oh so carefully, he repeats what he said. 

“What... does grounding mean?” 

Chapter Text

It’s at times like these that Iruma is painfully aware of the fact of just how human he really is. If he wasn’t panicking before, he is now. Everyone in the room had stood up when they heard the sudden sound of papers hitting the ground with Iruma out of the Balam-Robin side barrier. Not a single thing can be heard outside of the hellbirds outside cawing. It’s utterly suffocating. Everyone has gone silent, still as statues, and Kalego, oh Kalego . No one has ever seen such sorrow and guilt in that demon’s eyes before. And it’s almost completely gone when they look at him again.  

He takes a calming breath and carefully, slowly , makes his way to the group. No one moves. No one makes even a peep. Blood is rushing rapidly to Iruma’s ears and it’s deafening . He’s afraid. Not because he thinks he’s in danger of being eaten or physically hurt, but because he has absolutely no idea what in the Netherworld is going on anymore. And that, is the scariest thing he can experience.  

Not knowing what will happen, being in a situation with no clear way out. Iruma has spent his whole life fine tuning his instincts and intuitions to be able to predict situations and how to navigate them. Yeah, he can turn a blind eye, but that only really happens if it’s not an immediate danger. So, when Kalego kneels before him and gently, oh so painfully gently holds Iruma’s right hand, he nearly faints.  

“ Iruma, do you really not know what grounding is? ” Kalego questions, lightly holding the boy’s hand and caresses it with his thumb.  

“I... is...is it bad... that I don’t?” Iruma replies just barely above a whisper and choked with emotion.  

“ No, not necessarily. Although I must know... why is this conversation happening ? Why are any of you speaking about this to a first year and especially in the faculty lounge where anyone can enter at any time?! ” Kalego goes on voice rising steadily with every word and question. Iruma flinches, goosebumps running along his arms.  

“ I’m not upset with you Iruma. I am simply... concerned with the situation at hand. ” Kalego voices, easing Iruma once again. It’s uncanny just how different Kalego is acting towards his number one troublemaker. It’s not unwelcome though.  

“ Kalego. ” Balam starts and pales a little at the animosity that shows in his friend’s face for a split second. “ Please allow us to explain. ”  

“Kalego sensei?” Iruma speaks up when he feels the hand that holds his own begin to squeeze.  

“ Ah. Fine. Explain. ” He says impassively while going to stand. He subtly moves Iruma behind him, as if to protect him.  

With Kalego temporarily placated by Balam, the new tension that came with his arrival and reaction eased tenfold. It was still there, ready to go back into a frenzy at a moment's notice. Before anyone said anything more, Kalego put up a crypted speak barrier to prevent further ears from hearing. Something any of the teachers should have thought about from the beginning considering the nature of conversation. A pang of disappointment and guilt hits them all for such an oversight.  

“So then, why are you questioning this troublemaker on such a taboo subject?” Kalego immediately started as soon as he finished with the barrier.  

Momonoki sensei visibly flinched, Bulshenko sensei went stone faced, and Robin sensei squirmed in place.  

“We-well, you see... uh...” Momonoki sensei gracefully provided.  

“Iruma... are you fine... with us revealing this?” Bulshenko sensei says to the young demon in question.  

Iruma looks up at his teacher’s face, looking for anything that should tell him whether it was a good idea or not. Kalego in turn looks right back at him, considering him just as much. The two silently enter a staring contest until finally Iruma makes his decision.  

“I think... it’s alright... probably.”  

“ Hah, you troublesome child... Iruma, while I am concerned about the nature of this meeting, I will not push you to reveal anything to me. ”  

“Kale-”  

“ I’m not finished. Whatever it is that happened for this to have occurred, I trust you to tell me if you are in need of help. I am your teacher, you are my student, that is all. ” Kalego finishes, with a look that tries to convey impassiveness but instead is full of... well Iruma can’t quite pin point it. It’s almost like that look grandpa gives him at times.  

‘Kalego sensei... Hm. You’re not the emotional type, heck you don’t seem to like me very much. And yet, you are giving so much consideration... much more than I could ever deserve.’  

With that, Iruma reaffirms his earlier decision, “Yes, it’s alright. I... trust you.”  

‘ Haaaah, I swear this young demon is going to kill me. ’  

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A massacre. That’s the only thing that can be said about the scene right in front of him right now. And at the top of it all... he is almost unable to comprehend it. The boss, his head... cousin... brother... everyone from this branch... and the hand of someone as small as this demon. The man takes a step back from it all. Big mistake, a fatal one at that. Instantly a pair of glowing crimson eyes shoot directly in the poor unsuspecting yakuza man. Fear does not even come close to what he feels in that moment.

And in an instant the perpetrator is upon him. The feeling of nails on his vital point in neck makes him relieve himself.

“Where?” It speaks.  

“Uh-”  

“W H E R E?”  

“In xxx district near xxx station. Please, oh please don’t. I wasn’t a part of this group at that time.”  

“Hmm, I see, xxx district near xxx station.”  

“Ye-Yeah! That’s where-”  

The cat demon butler finishes the man off. They grab for a handkerchief to wipe their hands clean. They’re almost complete with their mission. Unfortunately, they must make their way back, Iruma is surely to be famished by the time he gets back home. A feast is called for after all. The cat demon’s tail swishes happily at the thought of seeing Iruma enjoy their cooking. Oh, what joy it is!

Chapter Text

The room is quiet, settling down like the calm before a storm. Kalego has taken over Robin sensei’s seat making the kicked-out individual have to bring a chair over. With everyone situated back where they were (Robin in his new seat), strangely, Iruma feels a lot safer than before. He doesn’t feel as trapped or suffocated as he was earlier. Everyone seeming to mind their space from him. The boy feels like he can breathe and gathers his thoughts before speaking.  

“You see... a few weeks ago- before the final exams, I had gone to Darry sensei’s class to help with studying.” Iruma starts off, gently bringing up all that occurred to his teacher. Kalego hums in response remembering that detail.  

“And well, since Darry sensei wasn't in, Balam sensei was teaching that class instead.”  

‘ Makes sense, Darry was out on an evil cycle that week and Balam is the most familiar with his class topic. ’  

“Balam sensei started talking about imaginary beings and how they don’t have wings. So, he was explaining how important it was for a Netherworld creature to have this feature but when he didn’t feel any on me...”  

‘ What? ’ Kalego intelligently thought as his already pale face began to drain even more of color.  

“It led to him freaking out and bringing me here where... everyone saw my back...” Iruma finished off in a barely contained pained whisper. The teachers bristled remembering the moment and regretting it all.  

“ Balam Shichiro. ” Kalego spoke out, cold and harsh.  

The teachers stiffened at hearing the way Kalego was speaking to the one person they never thought he would ever act towards in that manner. Things were going south and fast. Only this time, it was the one who this whole conversation revolved around, that stood in to placate the demon.  

“Kalego sensei, wait! Please don’t blame Balam sensei or Robin sensei, or Bulshenko or Momonoki senseis. None of this was their fault and that’s why we’re here today!”  

“ To talk about who the hell grounded you?! And without the principal or that damn cat?! ” Kalego’s voice rose in anger. He simply couldn’t understand the absurdity of the situation as well as the dawning realizations he was very quickly having to wrap his mind around.  

“We-well, no? They were just going to apologize for what happened that day. Right?” Iruma slightly questions. That was the most he was really expecting to come out of today’s meeting. Maybe some questions about his scars but not this necessarily.  

Kalego smacks a palm onto his face in exasperation. Of course, the brat wouldn’t think that far ahead about what was going to happen. However, for the others to be this incompetent is utterly unacceptable.  

“ Kalego, please calm down. We were simply trying to under- ” Bulshenko sensei spoke up only to shut up when Kalego glared at the man through the gaps between his fingers.  

“ Iruma, you are coming with me. ” Kalego states as he grabs for the young demon’s hand to pull him along wherever they were going.  

“Wait, what? But what about-”  

“ It appears that they have already apologized to you for their wrongdoings, therefore there is no need to stay here any longer. ”  

“ Kalego, wait- ” Balam tried to stop his friend but a single swipe from Cerberus effectively stopped him from doing so. When the three headed lightning dog disappeared, there was no sign of Iruma nor Kalego except for the closing doors left behind.  

...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

“ Welp! At least we got to apologize to Iruma-kun! ” Robin says cheerily but with half as much energy as he usually speaks in.  

“ I can’t believe we were so reckless both then and now. Have we really not learned anything ? ” Momonoki comments, a hand covering her mouth.  

“ Unfortunately, we can’t do anything more right now. Let’s just give our report to the principal about this meeting. I’m sure he’ll be glad to hear that Iruma accepted our apologies. ” Balam sighs as he begins to head out of the teacher’s lounge as well.  

“ Yes, it would be wise to inform him now. Hopefully, we won’t face to many troubles for our blunder of not securing the perimeter before speaking about such a thing. ” Bulshenko finishes off, leaving all four remaining demons to go silent.  

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Kalego is dragging Iruma this way and that in steady fast pace. The boy had given up trying to resist and just doing his best to keep up. When Iruma leaves his mind and looks around, he recognizes that they’re heading towards the Royal One classroom.  

“Why here?” Iruma questions, not realizing he had spoken out loud his thoughts.  

“ There’s a room that will allow us to have a complete private conversation. It would be best considering the nature of what was being conducted in the lounge. ” Kalego answered without missing a beat. Not bothering to look back, he just continues to guide Iruma, hand still in hand.  

It only took about ten minutes between leaving the teacher’s lounge and arriving at the designated room. Kalego leads them inside and immediately secures the perimeter, setting up yet again the barrier he had in the lounge only stronger. Iruma looks around and is just as impressed by this room as with the entirety of the Royal One. It’s a well-lit room with plenty of furniture to sit on.  

When Kalego finishes preparing the area, he turns around and takes a seat on one of the many chairs. Iruma takes one that faces his teacher, not directly but enough for comfort and politeness. Iruma supposes that he should be feeling nervous about being in a room alone with a teacher that typically hates him, but doesn’t. Maybe, it’s because of the actions his teacher has done that makes Iruma feel this way. Seeing Kalego sensei stand up for him when he thought Iruma was in danger, brought warmth to human.  

Kalego looks upon his student, studying the way he moves and interacts with his surroundings. He finds Iruma to be quite strange. Perhaps it has to do with that damn eccentric chairdemon he calls ‘grandpa’. Or maybe it’s due to how calm the young demon is, despite the situation at hand. I mean, it’s grounding! A horrific torture that is no longer in practice due it being banned and utter taboo. He feels himself teetering on the edge of entering an evil cycle. And over Iruma of all people! Unbelievable.  

Still, Kalego has a goal in mind, and he will get to the bottom of this. If not for the sake of him being Babirus’ guard dog, then for his own peace of mind. After all, Iruma’s death would’ve been entirely on him. Kalego suppresses a shudder.

Chapter Text

Tick-tock, tick-tock, tick-

“Iruma…” Kalego starts off, his voice hesitant and barely above a whisper. It’s something that hasn’t happened since he was a young demon. It’s off putting and uncomfortable for both himself and Iruma, who was so used to his confident, authoritative voice. Kalego shrugs it off, thinking carefully, very carefully, about what he wants to say.

“Iru-“

“Kale-“

The two begin, interrupting each other and going silent at the same time. The air slowly becomes thick with an awkward atmosphere. While Iruma certainly feels less entrapped than he did with the others, the way Kalego is acting around him, the look on his face…

Tick-tock, tick-tock, tick-

Kalego sees they’ve sat in silence for nearly ten minutes. His mind had been racing since the moment he heard everything being said in the teacher’s lounge. He sighs heavily, pinching the bridge of his nose. He had to say something now or he wouldn’t be able to call himself the guard dog of Babirus, let alone a teacher or even just a self respecting demon.

“I apologize.” He says with such sincerity, it makes Iruma want to cry.

“Wha-?”

“I apologize, Iruma. I have acted shamefully since the moment you entered Babirus. My actions are my own and for that I am now apologizing to you.” Kalego continued, not giving the young demon a chance to interject. He had to get through this, no matter how painful it was to his pride. He may be hard and even downright sadistic towards others, he was not unreasonable nor imperious. Even he knew when it was time to contend to others.

“Not knowing about your circumstances can only excuse so much of what I’ve done. So I will not sit here and say things like that you should’ve told me or that had I known, I wouldn’t have-“ Kalego pauses, it was painful. He never expected to ever feel anything like this ever in his life. Yet here he was, guilt piercing and squeezing at his heart and throat.

“I could’ve killed you right at the start of the flight test. I pushed you off without giving it a second thought as to why you were hesitating. All due to my own prejudice and preconceived notions of yourself.” Kalego bows his head to Iruma, this wasn’t all he had to apologize for. But it was certainly the most important considering everything.

Iruma sat there in shocked silence. Kalego sensei… was apologizing… to him! And the emotions he gave off; guilt, regret, remorse, and even… sorrow? Iruma just couldn’t believe this was happening. He tried to speak up but all that came out were sobs of deep pain that had been buried down in his awful past.

Kalego felt anything intense need to comfort the young demon but held himself back. No matter how open and vulnerable he has made himself already, he still wasn’t quite there yet with Iruma. Kalego couldn’t let himself get down to that level just yet. He still had to represent himself as Babirus’ guard dog, as a member of the Naberius household, and really, just his plain old pride as a demon held himself back.

Once Iruma finally begins to breathe normally again, he looks at Kalego, contemplating whether he should tell him the truth or not. He knows what Balam sensei said, knows he should stay quiet, and yet…

“Iruma. I need to know. The chairdemon-“ He gets cut off before he can finish his question.

“NO! GRANDPA HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS! MY PARENTS-“ Iruma shuts up immediately, feeling like he royally messed up again.

“Your… parents?” Kalego lets out a noise that sounds like a mix of a scoff and a gasp of disbelief and anger.

“Wait no- No I meant- I-“

“Iruma.” Kalego calls out softly. The poor older demon felt seconds from entering an evil cycle. He takes a deep breath, quieting his mind and gripping his hold on Cerberus tighter. He sighs deeply. This wasn’t the best time to talk about things. From what he could tell, Iruma didn’t even know what happened to him. And if he was being honest, he wasn’t the best demon to explain it.

“Let’s just finish it here. Drink every last drop of that tea and go home after.” Kalego says in a tone that’s supposed to sound tough, commanding, but just comes out as caring and parental.

Iruma nods and finishes off the pot quickly. He stands up, feeling a little awkward around his teacher. The two of them coming to some sort of understanding. Something connecting them a little more closely. Their bond, their contract between “demon” and familiar stronger.

Seeing Iruma off, Kalego sits back, letting his shoulders relax before falling into an evil cycle. Thankfully Balam was wise enough to keep his senses on his fellow comrade. Nothing would remain of the school if otherwise.

Chapter Text

Kalego’s evil cycle had lasted longer than usual, for him at least. A whole week! While most demons had week long evil cycles, Kalego was different in that they never lasted more than three days. This time however, and maybe it was due to who had triggered it, it seemed never ending to him. And thanks again to Balam for having such a close camaraderie that he was able to keep the demon contained to his home.

Thoughts and emotions had pounded and beaten him down the whole week. Even back when he was an active member of the Naberius household, Kalego had never felt so shaken. Iruma… that boy, that young demon, how was it that he could bring out what his own hell of a family couldn’t?

And it was so strange. The chairdemon never married, never had any children as far as the neverworld knew. So how did he attain a grandson that no one knew existed until the very start of the new school year? With how boasting the old demon was, it was a surprise to have never heard of Iruma beforehand.

Then there was the issue with Iruma’s parents. While it wasn’t necessarily cause for concern that a grandparent were to be the main guardian of a young demon, it was a little unusual. Typically such situations were due to the parents being dead, out on the battlefield, or some other sort of ordinary explanation.

But then the young demon had hinted that his injuries were due to his parents. His parents? Once again, Kalego was confounded. It was so, so hard for demons to reproduce that having one child was all some demons could hope for. Although there were exceptions such as the Valacs (albeit they are on the far outliers), the Sabnocks, and the Asmodeus household.

Even his family, no matter how harsh and sadistic they were in raising their children, were never put through anything close to being grounded. So why and how did Iruma’s parents do something like this? Did they do this? Were they killed? Manipulated? Just- there had to be an explanation. Because there just had to be no way they did it themselves. It was… surprisingly… undemonlike.

—————————————————————————

After Kalego’s evil cycle ended, he was finally able to visit the homes of all his students. Each visit just reminded and reaffirmed the annoying uniqueness of his troublemaking class. Abnormal was definitely the best way to explain each one. Still, he gave each one his most sincere assessment of their children. It almost made him forget about Iruma. Almost.

…………………………………………..

Landing in front the mansion of the Sullivan household was… nauseating to say the least. First of all, it was where that damn jolly old chairdemon lived. Second was his senior back when was a student at Babirus. Kalego could still remember all those times back then like they happened just the day before. With a heavy sigh, he knocks on the door and is greeted by Iruma.

Great, just the demon he wanted to see the most. He subtly looks over the young boy, trying to see any sign of abuse. While Iruma did say the chairdemon had nothing to do with grounding, he still had to make sure hai student wasn’t lying. That was when he felt the dreaded chill of fear run down his back as a pair of familiar hands land on his shoulders.

…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..

“It also includes the training he did with the student council and the new cha-“ Kalego paused mid report. New challenges… Iruma would certainly be facing new challenges in the future. Especially due to his- “Which reminds me, chairdemon, may we bring them in now to discuss matters?”

“Yes.” Was all Lord Sullivan said as Iruma looked at them in confusion. He didn’t have to wonder long as three demons walked into the living room. Blushenko, Marbas, and Murmur all bow towards Lord Sullivan before sitting down next to Kalego.

“Grandpa?” Iruma looked to his grandfather for answers. The old demon gave him a reassuring smile.

“Don’t worry dear, I called in these teachers to help us, help you.” Lord Sullivan pats Iruma’s head, giving the newly arrived teachers a signal to start.

Chapter Text

One, two, three, four, five, si-

“Ahem- where to begin…?” Said a demon with bushy pigtails, looking over the other two he came in with.

“Mmm…you see…” Blushenko clears his throat, also unsure of what to say. He’d already apologized to the young demon before but hadn’t had a chance to really clear things up.

“Uhm…?” Iruma muttered, making the newly arrived flinch. He also didn’t know what to say or do. They were called here to help him but how? And why? He just sat there confused as the seconds pass by.

Eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirt-

“Iruma, do you know who I am or what class I teach?” The one with curtain like black hair and closed eyes finally spoke up.

“No?”

“My name is Mars Marbas. I teach introduction to torture and it’s history as well as intermediate torture and it’s practice.” Iruma squirmed at the names of those classes. A churning in his stomach almost had him wishing he’d skipped dinner.

“T-Torture?” He says shakily under his breath, trying but failing to keep his composure.

“Yes well- we obviously don’t practice it on the students- Ahem! Let me start again.” Sir Marbas panicked a bit when he saw how the boy reacted and the signal Murmur gave him. The latter demon having begun his usage of his bloodline ability to read Iruma’s wavelengths when he stepped in the room.

“What I mean to say, is that myself and Murmur here, have been discreetly informed on… your situation and well… we believe we can help you figure out what happened to you.” He gives Iruma a hopefully, reassuring smile.

“That’s right Iruma my boy.” Sullivan soothingly pats Iruma’s shoulders as he kept a watchful eye on everything. Ópera nodded as well off to the side. “We know you don’t want people to know about certain things, so believe me, these are trustworthy demons. You can count on your teachers.”

“Grandpa…” Iruma felt touched and wary. He still wasn’t fully convinced but with every word and action, his demon grandfather and all the other demons he’s slowly coming to cherish, are breaking down his layers and layers of solid steel walls.

“Ok…” The boy nodded. If his grandfather and teacher thought it was necessary then, it must be important to go through.

…………………………………………..

After a few more introductions, they finally get to the root of the problem. “Iruma… do you know what grounding is?” Sir Marbas asked, having a less intense reaction to the name as he works with torture and it’s history, but even he is shaky about it.

“No? No. I don’t know. I mean… I keep hearing everyone say that and then…” Iruma looks to his grandfather who just smiles sadly. It must not be that bad to not know about it if his grandfather isn’t signalling him to quiet up.

“Everyone so far has looked so… sad and like… I don’t… scared?”

“Ah- yes. That is… a normal reaction to that word.” Marbas can’t help but wonder how they’ve been handling Iruma’s grounding situation thus far if this is the response he’s been receiving. Murmur taps twice; nothing of note, continuing to monitor.

“Well, in its essence, to ground a demon, is to make their wings useless.” Marbas tried explaining it simply.

“How does that happen?” Iruma innocently inquires. While he has an small inkling as to what occurs, it’s somewhat hard for him to imagine someone actually going through with it. Which was a pretty accurate assumption.

Unbeknownst to him, both demons involved in the grounding process are affected by the circumstance. The one who gets their wings damaged or removed, simply do not survive in the netherworld. It’s a world of unimaginable pain. Either that demon is killed by something or someone, or they themselves end the pain.

And the one who performs the act? Most lose their sanity, many return to origins, very few retain a modicum of their former selves. Even then, those demons find it hard to live after the fact. It’s one of the reasons why grounding had become a taboo and unpracticed form of torture.