Chapter XXII. Sparkling Shock 🎼 🎶 ✨
Kuromu, the dem-dol who's currently all the rage, is, in actuality, one of the students from the Misfit Class: Keroli Crocell. However...
She suddenly collapsed and sustained a high fever. Ryūko and Isabelle went out of the dressing room of Makubari Dome to seek help, whereas Iruma supervised Keroli by her side. Ryūko and Isabelle eventually returned to the room with Keroli's manager, Mal, along with a staff member.
"Iruma, Ryūko and I have returned with Kuromu's manager and a staff member!" Said Isabelle, who slammed open the door for the following adults to the enter the room.
Mal placed her hand on Keroli's forehead to check her temperature.
"Kuromu! Please wake up! She has a fever." Said Mal, "Ice and cold water, now!"
"Right!" Replied the staff member before he went to get the requested items.
Mal then turned over to Iruma and asked while poking his chest: "Now as for you... You better not have done anything to her."
"We didn't! We were talking and she collapsed..." Said Iruma.
"Did any of you say anything to overexcite her? She's very delicate. She can't handle too much heat." Said Mal, "If she gets too exhausted or emotional, or uses too much ice magic..."
The trio remembered the amount of ice Keroli conjured earlier, plus, she becoming an emotional wreck.
"And we've been so careful, too." Continued Mal.
"Pardon. This might have been our fault, though I might not have said much." Intervened Ryūko touching her black cherry blossom ear cuff.
"You three just stay put!" Instructed Mal, "We'll talk later."
Then, another staff member entered the room.
"Miss Mal! Is it true? She fainted?!" Asked that particular staff member.
"Yes. Look for yourself." Said Mal. He asked Mal in regards of the concert, but she said that it won't be a possibility.
"Oh, no! But it's the Makubari Dome! All her fans are already lined up outside, and there are a ton of sponsors here, too." Interjected the staff member, "This is her big chance! A doctor? Can we get one here quick?"
"Not a chance! She has a unique condition. Specific steps are required to cool her down. The only ones capable would be a highly specialized doctor or her family." Said Mal, "But even if we call her family now, we won't make it in time for the show's opening. They live too far away from here."
"Wait, you're saying that her family is not making an arrival to her show?" Asked Ryūko.
Mal pushed her glasses up and replied: "Correct. That's the kind of family they are."
Isabelle lowered her head in sorrow as Ryūko clenched her fists and her sharp blue and red eyes became slant and sharper than ever, almost to a handsome guy's eye shape. But the fact that her family didn't show up for Keroli's performance made Isabelle sadder and Ryūko angrier.
Mal: "I guess we'll just have to cancel this-"
Keroli: "Don't do it."
Mal: "Kuromu!"
In spite of her fever, Keroli managed to lift her upper body and she said: "You can't 'cause I... I'm gonna become the top dem-dol. And there is no way... that I'm stopping now. I have to get back at my family."
"I know why she is persistent." Said Ryūko, "She comes from the Crocell family, whose bloodline ability is "Ice Façade". They have the power to control the temperature of water. The family is well-known for their cryokinetic abilities but their iciness isn't the only thing in the Crocells that makes them distinctive."
"They are also known for wearing their masks of blank, icy expressions. Not a single cheerful face was made in her family, so smiling was never a thing for her ever since childhood." Continued Isabelle.
How did they know about the Crocell family? Aside from academic studying and other similar things, Ryūko and Isabelle have also studied about all the high-ranking demon families and even the Thirteen Crowns; a group of the Netherworld's greatest heroes.
"They're right. One day, my Grammy secretly showed me an exciting form of Netherworld entertainment: the dem-dols." Added Keroli, "It was a sparkling shock. I never knew demons could even show joy. So this is what they called "smiling". That what I wanted. That way, I could get back at my family. Becoming the top dem-dol is my destiny. Because... I mean... I am super cute."
Keroli collapsed again, Ryūko and Isabelle were alarmed as Mal as they advised her to not talk so much and to calm down. Iruma asked if there was anything he, Isabelle, and Ryūko can do, but Mal slapped his hand away and told him to not touch her, that he, his sister, and their housemate were in the way and there was nothing they can do. Ryūko's new eye forms returned to their normal state, only this time, filled with rage from hearing this.
"No. There has to be a way, and we will find it, no matter how much you say that we can't." Objected Ryūko with a serious and blazing aura emitted with determination, anger and the red aura gave a gradient of admiral blue from the bottom with coldness.
"She's... She's right. We'll try to help her as best as we can." Agreed Iruma, also emitting some of Ryūko's aura.
"That's who we are. We are Ryūko Suzuki, Iruma Suzuki, and Isabelle Abaddon; the honor students of the demon school Babylus." Said Isabelle to her housemates with a determined smile on her face, "We must... prove Miss Mal wrong about us being in the way. And we shall assist Kuromu, no matter what the cost we need to pay for all the damage we had done."
Now with their confidence at the highest peak, Iruma and Ryūko nodded at her, full of confidence and determination in their hearts to be helping Keroli, without turning back on the decision.
Meanwhile...
Baraki Bathin, the Broadcasting Battler President, helped the staff. He was currently trying to keep Kuromu's fans calm, until a staff member asked if he could help with the rest of the staffs from inside Makubari Dome. He was so honored to stand close to the stage that he cried streaks of tears. Well, his joy was short-lived, because the concert staff was letting the audiences in and they quickly rushed towards the stage. They even dragged Baraki along and he was surrounded by the crowd in mere minutes. This was definitely not what he imagined.
At the entrance of Makubari Dome, Babylus Student Council President, daughter of Henri Azazel: Chief of Demon Border Control, Ameri Azazel arrived and thought: 'So this is it.'
She looked at her ticket, 'Father procured this ticket for me... So I could see my first dem-dol performance.'
Inside the dome, demons were already chanting Kuromu's name while waving their light sticks around. Ameri brought a pair of light sticks, as well.
'Apparently, these crucial accessories.' Thought Ameri, 'Good thing I bought them.'
She then started to chant Kuromu's name with everyone else.
Meanwhile, some of the concert staff were frantically running down the hallway, all for them looked stressed and slightly panicked.
"Hey! How's it going in there?" Asked one of them.
"We haven't even started yet, but the crowd's hyped." Said another staff member.
"The show starts at 6:06:06... Do you think Kuromu's gonna be okay?" Asked the other.
"I'm the only one who got "let's work harder" again... I know someday... I'm going to get a smiley devi face, too! Look! See how cute I am, you see? That makes you happy? So... Please... let me sit. Show me your smiles."
- Keroli Crocell to her family in a dream
Keroli woke up, realizing that her conversation was just a dream.
"Ow... what happened to me? Where is everyone? How long was I out?" Asked Keroli before she gasped at the time, "The show! It's past 6:06:06... I didn't... show up on time... Not only that, so many people came to see me. I couldn't make them smile... That means..." She tightly tugged on the blanket that covered her as tears welled in her blue eyes, "I'm... a professional failure!"
She suddenly heard loud cheers from the main hall. She slowly made her way to the stage and saw Mal peeking through the curtains.
"Oh, Kuromu! Are you felling better?" Asked Mal.
"Yes... I am, I think." Replied Keroli, "Why are they cheering?"
"It's remarkable. I couldn't have asked for better talent." Said Mal.
"What in the world could be going on out there?" Asked Keroli.
She was greeted with an... unbelievable sight.
Isabelle, Acheron, Ryūko, Iruma, Asmodeus, Lavande, and Clara were dressed like idols and were the very reason for the people's cheers. Keroli was dumbfounded and thought: "What?! What?! What in the actual Netherworld is this?! What is happening?!"
Let's turn the clock back a little, shall we?
After Mal shooed away the Suzuki twins and their housemate, they met up with their demon friends, intending to ask them for support.
"Asmodeus, Lavande, Acheron, Valac. Do you four have a moment to spare?" Asked Ryūko.
The three explained the situation, careful not to expose Kuromu's identity as Keroli.
"We can't give every single detail to you, but you guys need to know this." Said Isabelle, "Please do whatever it takes. We need to help Kuromu."
"But of course." Approved Asmodeus and Lavande.
"If you're willing to help a singer like Kuromu, then count me in." Said Acheron.
"Roger dodger dodger devil!" Replied Clara.
So then, Isabelle, Ryūko, and Iruma told Mal that they wanted to perform an opening act, from doing stunts to performing. But she still said that it was impossible.
"I told you, it's impossible. I appreciate your offer but just stay put! Please, I'm begging!" Said Mal.
Ryūko's usually sharp eyes transformed into their determined, slanted and yet so beautifully handsome form. Now in the resemblance of a prince's eyes, but slightly feminine than an actually prince. Look at the following different eye shapes she has at the moment.
She, Isabelle, Acheron, Asmodeus, Lavande, and Clara stepped forward and firmly exclaimed: "Sorry, but no."
"Lady Ryūko, Lady Isa, and Sir Iruma have informed us of the current affair." Said Lavande, "All that is needed is to free all the present demons from their stress, correct?"
"I know! We should all play a game of tag!" Said Clara.
"I suggest we not do that." Retorted Acheron.
Asmodeus was thankful for that and said: "There must be some other way we can help."
"No. The audience expressly came to see Kuromu. The dem-dol who's cute, smart, and elegant, and still only in high school." Said Mal, "They don't have to be as good as her, but it's not like we can just find another cute high schooler now, at least not one who's as young and amateurish anyway."
"Then, how about we make one?" Suggested Clara.
Ryūko swiftly clapped her two hands and pointed her index finger at Clara.
"Valac, that's the best idea you have come up with in a situation like this!" Exclaimed Ryūko, "You're a genius!"
"I am? I mean, I am!" Said Clara before she patted on her yellow pouches on her skirt to make a lavender dress with a white cape and some Chinese accents on it and lavender slingback sandals, which was for Lavande, "Lave-Lave, take this one!"
She tossed the outfit to the feline and she caught it in her hands.
"My, such intricate style." Commented Lavande, "A beautiful accent of one of the many human world nations sewn upon this very dress here. Thank you, Lady Valac."
"This one's for you, Issy-kins." Clara gave her a sparkling blue sleeveless top with bright pink and white stars and a high collar, four-layered skirt (star-studded checkered canvas with a magenta skirt underneath it, a light pink skirt underneath the second skirt, and a last transparent skirt), blue leggings, cyan arm tubes with star decorations, and pink high-heeled boots with magenta tips and light pink heels.
"Ooh, starstruck. Thanks, Clara." Said Isabelle. "What this needs is an orange wig to complete the look."
"Sorry, Ryūko-kins. But I don't know anything about your style." Apologized Clara, not knowing about the gothic student's sense of fashion.
"In that case... give me a dark-colored dress, a black military-styled corset and black high-lace boots." Requested Ryūko.
And so she did, Clara was glad that Ryūko could come up with a good set of sexy fashion and even simplified her words to something Clara could understand. The Arachne half-demon received her set of clothes and went with Lavande and Isabelle to the dressing room.
"Lavande. Isa and I have a violin-keyboard composition based of Kuromu's song." Said Ryūko to the feline, "When the time comes, and if she said we can remain onstage, I'll tell you to summon my violin and Isa's keyboard again."
"At your command, milady." Verbally Lavande as they went to the dressing room.
Now that the three girls were off to change, Clara produced three other dresses, one in blue, one in magenta, and the other with a combination of the colors from the previous two.
With a sinister expression, she turned over to Iruma and Asmodeus and said: "Hey, you three knuckleheads... I hope you're ready for greatness."
The boys immediately got a bad feeling from this. Yes, crossdressing was the whole idea for the boys. They didn't want to crossdress or look like perverts, but Clara already began to strip Acheron, Iruma, and Asmodeus down until their undergarments. Thank goodness, Isabelle, Ryūko, and Lavande weren't there to witness it.
In Makubari Dome, Stage
The audience was growing more and more impatient, until they heard an announcement.
"Attention, everyone! We apologize for the wait. We will now begin our opening act. Enjoy!" Said a feminine voice.
The lights shined on the stage, revealing Isabelle, Ryūko, Iruma, Asmodeus, Lavande, Acheron, and Clara all dressed up as feminine idols. It was really embarrassing for Acheron, Iruma, and Asmodeus. Isabelle, Ryūko, and Lavande were confident with this idea. Clara was the only one who was full of spirit. About the girls' hairstyles, Ryūko tied her hair in a charming low ponytail, Lavande made an elegant loose side braid, Clara had a pair of twin tails, and Isabelle wore a wavy orange wig partially tied in a ponytail and decorated with stars. The boys are also wearing wigs, with Acheron's being dark blue with magenta and white butterfly barrettes, some hair locks tied in a bun, and the rest being tied into a braid from midway to end. To top it all off, Acheron and Isabelle complete their outfits with (obviously fake) wings. (A/N: Credits to DeviantArt artist Freeleam for creating them)
"Know our name! We're The Merry Band Of Friends!" Exclaimed Clara.
Dem-dol Iruma, Asmodeus, & Clara
Ameri told herself that she's seen the blue-haired girls before and told herself that she couldn't lay a finger on the girl with orange hair. Nonetheless, the audiences never asked for an opening act. Ryūko's group needed to brighten up the mood.
"Okay, you know what to do." Whispered Ryūko.
It was time for introductions! Clara was the first to introduce herself.
"I'm the forest fairy, Clarin (クラリン)!" Introduced Clara, "Gimme snacks! If you don't, I'm gonna eat you! Rawr!"
Okay, that didn't impress anyone, rather, it sort of weirded the audiences.
Asmodeus was next. Since his full name is Asmodeus Alice, doesn't need to change his name. But he has to use his first name, considering that it's already a feminine name.
"I-I'm the shy yet cool Alice (アリス)... How's it going?" Introduced Asmodeus.
The way he was fidgeting or how embarrassed he appeared seems to look cute for the audiences.
Clara whispered something to him, but he quietly objected: "No way I can't say that! What would Miss Félin think of me if I do?!"
"Do it for Kuromu, Issy, Ryūko, and Iruma-kins!" Whispered Clara.
This irked Asmodeus, for Clara's really knowing how to manipulate him.
He created a pink, heart-shaped flame as he shaped his hands the same way and said: "And I will set your heart alight with my red-hot flames! Kapow!"
Set their hearts alight, indeed. He managed to mesmerize the crowd. Lavande was next on the list.
"I am the one flower that sits upon the very edge of the Netherworld's abyss, Lazerathe (silent 'e' in the pronunciation, ラズラス)." Introduced Lavande in a soothing and beautiful voice before her fingertips touched her lips, "For I have bloomed through one's death calling on my lust, I shall send you a wind of this flower that blows from my hands."
She moved her hands as if blowing a kiss and summoned red, purple and lavender rose petals flying across the hall.
Up next is Acheron.
"I am the legendary butterfly who flies across the realm, spreading life and miracles everywhere. My name is Miranda (ミランダ)." Introduced Acheron with an actual feminine voice rather than a male falsetto like Asmodeus. "And now that I'm here, I'm ready to spread the pollen of life to all of you."
He spun around on his spot, scattering glitter all over the stage, much to the awe of everyone.
'Azz... Lavande... Acheron... Clara... You're all so good!' Thought Iruma as he noticed them showing amazing feats from bubbles to energy butterflies, 'I don't think I can do this. But I made a promise. So I'm gonna keep it.'
Isabelle and Ryūko gave Iruma an encouraging look in the eyes and told him, "Even if this is futile, we have to give it our all."
He blinked, but returned her seriousness and gave a smile saying: "Okay, Sis and Isa! Let's do this!"
Ryūko gave a princely smile and wink to the audience before she introduced herself.
"To be with all that I have become in the life of a death-seeking battle, I am the Heiress of the Netherworld Void, Akuryū (悪竜)!" Introduced Ryūko, "From the darkest depths of my past's utter despair, I gift to you my lustful desires of being pulled down until I take my garments away! Only your souls would be my prisoners, if you treat me wrongly. But do it with me right, I might choose you to be my void's heir!"
Her flirtatious behavior struck the hearts of many males with such a brilliant use of language, after being in the human world as an anime voice actor and movie actress. Next is Isabelle's turn to greet herself to the audience.
"Born from stardust at the farthest edge of the cosmos, I am the perpetual star that shines down on all. Call me Titania (チタニア)!" Introduced Isabelle. "And today, I'm ready to shine my light on those willing to gaze at me and feel my radiant aura."
She then emitted a bright yet gentle white light to the audience as they oohed and aahed at the magnificent sight.
Last of all, it was Iruma's time to shine.
"I am anxious Irumi (イルミ)!" Fidgeted Iruma shyly, "Nice to meet you. My weight, height, and personal info are all a top secret! Too bad."
He, Isabelle, and Ryūko linked arms and said: "We're the mysterious dem-dols, Akuryū, Titania, and Irumi!"
That did the trick, the audiences were elated!
Audience Member 1: "Wow, they're pretty cute, too!"
Audience Member 2: "Go, Akuryū, Titania, and Irumi! You got this!"
Keroli: (at the sidelines) "Huh? W-What?! Seriously!"
Miranda: "Okay, everyone. Let's start this opening act with a bang!"
Keroli: "What in the actual Netherworld is this?!"
Without further delay, Akuryū and her group commenced their opening act. Clarin and Miranda were playing their instruments (bongos for the former, harp for the latter), Alice and Lazerathe did various fire and flower tricks. The two top students addressed Akuryū, Titania, and Irumi before they fired flames and flower petals at their direction as they dodged the blasts. But Akuryū and Titania seems to have a better dancing fashion over their dodging.
Audience Member 1: "Whoa, that's dangerous!"
Audience Member 2: "Wow! They're dodging all of those!"
Audience Member 3: "I've never seen dancing like that!"
Audience Member 4: "Hey, look up there!"
Above the stage, showed Akuryū's, Titania's and Irumi's names in flames and burning flower petals.
Ameri was staring at Akuryū and Irumi with a pensive look and thought: 'Those blue-haired ones and the orange-haired one... look like... No, no. It can't be! That's preposterous!'
Keroli was silently watching the main group performing as praise for them can be heard.
Irumi described as cute, Akuryū described as elegant and cool, Titania as warm and radiant, Alice as burning and passionate, Miranda as bright and miraculous, Lazerathe as regal and stunning, and Clarin as weird.
"They said they'd do anything to ensure the show went off without a hitch." Said Mal.
'They did this... for me? He made such a fuss about not wanting to stand out, whereas they had already been used to it... I see.' Thought Keroli, 'And yet, they end up doing so anyway for the sake of others. They stand out because of their desires to help their friends. I don't think I've ever heard of demons such a thing.'
"Now, Ali-Ali and Laze-Laze!" Sounded Clarin as she sent her sparkling bubbles to Alice and Lazerathe.
"Well, if you insist..." Said the two as they shot the bubbled with their flames and flower petals, making the bubbles burst open and candy fell out of them.
"Your turn, Mira-Mira!" Clarin sent another cluster of bubbles at Miranda.
"You got it, Clarin!" Replied Miranda as he scattered his 'pollen' at the bubbles, making them look like disco balls reflecting the stage lights. Once the bubbles popped, they released the glitter in a rain-like manner.
The crowd was chanting Akuryū's, Titania's, and Irumi's names and Keroli refused to stay in the sidelines for long.
"Wow, Ryūko, Isabelle, and Iruma." Said Keroli as she reverts to her idol self. "You're just full of surprises."
A few people noticed a cold wind and then, a feminine voice filled the atmosphere.
"How long do you plan on going wild on my stage, huh?" Asked the voice.
"Well, do our ears hear correctly? Because here is the main attraction: Kuromu!" Announced Miranda and Titania.
The letters of fire and flowers that made Akuryū's, Titania's, and Irumi's names were replaced by icy letters of Kuromu's name.
An icy pathway has been created onto the stage, snowflakes flutter across the hall, and the spotlight shone on Kuromu, finally making her appearance.
"The opening act is now over!" Said Kuromu, "Sorry I'm late, hey guys!"
She stepped down on her frozen pathway, Akuryū walked up to greet her.
"Kuromu, we have awaited for thy awakening of this blizzard's night." Said Akuryū with a regal curtsy.
"Thank you, everyone." Said Kuromu to the main group, "Thank you so much for everything."
The Heiress of the Netherworld Void and her group were glad that they made enough time to occupy the audience before their evil cycles can be reach. But now that Kuromu was available, they don't have to be on the set any longer.
"Alright, we'll be just going-" Before Irumi could go, Titania held her shoulder.
"Wait, Irumi." Said Titania before turning to Kuromu, "Shall I pass the word to you?"
"Gladly, Titania. You're on a professional stage now." Said Kuromu, holding out a microphone to Irumi, "That's a commitment you have to see all the way through."
Irumi took the microphone and Akuryū and Titania looked at Lazerathe.
"The time has come. Now, Lazerathe! Bring forth our keys and strings!" Ordered Titania and Akuryū.
Lazerathe nodded and clapped her hands twice to summon Akuryū's violin and Titania's keyboard once more. Thank goodness they were in a good tune. The audience was cheering for the whole idol group and the determined expressions of Alice, Lazerathe, Miranda, and Clarin were the encouragement all Akuryū, Titania, and Irumi needed.
"And here we go!" Said Kuromu, Irumi, Titania, and Akuryū. The violinist and keyboardist began a vibrato intro to begin the real performance of Little Imp.
Little Imp (Full Ver.) By Kuromu, Akuryū, Titania, & Irumi
(Note: There are four following vocalists and they will be singing in a designated part of the song as so.)
[Ku] Kuromu
[Iru] Irumi
[Aku] Akuryū
[Ti] Titania
[All]
Every demon, listen up, make sure that your guard is up
Or else one day I'm gonna swoop in and steal away your heart~!
Okay!
[Ku/Ti]
A-Ah
Even though she looks so sweet, she's a little imp!
Touch my hair and I'm sure that you'll see
Come with me and escape into a fantasy!
You wanna chat?
[Aku/Iru]
Wait, more than that?
[All]
If you insist, then I guess I'll come and play with you~!
[Ku]
Let's see
Do you love me?
Look a little closer please
[Aku]
If you really do, I ask you, "Won't you please just give your soul to me!"
[All]
I'm mischievous
A little imp
Let me take your hand!
Aren't you glad you're at the mercy of a little imp?!
[Iru/Ti]
Demons aim for victory!
Won't you make your move on me?
[Ku/Aku]
Too late, cause now I've set my sights
Time to eat you up~!
[All]
Om nom! That's right!
Even though I seem so sweet
I'm a little imp!
[Ti]
Just a little further I think I can reach!
[Iru]
Getting impatient, aren't we~?
[Ku/Aku]
I'll hold you close?
Won't let you go?
[Iru/Ti]
I know that it's selfish
So I got to ask for all of you!
[All]
It's clear! You will be dear!
You were always here!
[Ti/Aku/Iru]
If it's for my sake, there's nothing you won't do
So won't you give me your heart!
[All]
I'm mischievous
A little imp
I'll talk to you!
Be the one who makes me turn my head
This little imp
It wasn't too embarrassing to sing, dance, or play instruments on the stage with all of the excitement brought to success. The crowd was thrilled beyond belief and the show ended with a massive achievement.
After the concert, the staff threw a small party for Kuromu's successful show. She was apologizing to the staff for all the trouble she caused them, but they reassured her not to worry about it and all's well that ends well. The main group was also getting some attention from the staff.
"Though mortifying for you and Sir Asmodeus, my lord, you did splendidly." Complimented Lavande to Iruma, "I am well moved by your performance, as well, Sir Asmodeus."
"You did absolutely stunning, milady." Smiled Asmodeus.
"Well done, everyone." Said Ryūko with the same, cool and collected face and monotone voice as always, "We saved Kuromu's show from cancellation and even helped many other demons be free from their evil cycles. As the head of our group, I am very proud of what we were able to achieve. That is something that we should all be proud of."
"Indeed. I consider this a collaborative effort." Agreed Acheron.
"You were so cool, Ryūko-kins!" Said Clara, "You seduced the crowd like a pro! And you were amazing, Issy-kins. You really lit up the stage then and there."
"I wouldn't say seduce, but thanks." Said Ryūko.
"Aw, thanks, Clara." Said Isabelle.
"Clara's right. You were pretty cool out there, Sis and Isa." Said Iruma.
"You seven were amazing, too." Said one of the staff members, "So pretty cute."
"Do you want to become dem-dols?" Asked another staff member.
Acheron, Asmodeus, Lavande, Isabelle, Iruma, and Ryūko declined, whereas Clara has the intent.
"Something that does not relate to my ambition, drafted or set, is clearly a waste of my time." Said Ryūko with her eyes closed before she sipped on her drink, "If I am requested by Kuromu herself, that may be a consideration for me to take time on."
Mal walked up to Kuromu and said: "Well, Kuromu, good job."
"Thank you, Mal!" Said Kuromu, "That means a lot to me. I'm really sorry about what happened before the show."
"It's alright. More importantly..." Mal showed her a folded sheet of paper, "Here. This is for you. Once they were finished treating you, they left immediately."
Kuromu unfolded the paper and there was a message from her mother that said: "Take care of yourself." There was also a drawing of that smiley demon face that she wanted to get for a long time. She was overwhelmed with happiness.
Mal informed her that her family said that they're proudly watching her before Kuromu was called over for a photograph. Isabelle, Ryūko, and Iruma walked over to Mal.
"We sincerely apologize for the ruckus and we are glad that everything has made it smoothly." Apologized Ryūko.
"Yes. But you see, that's not all... her mother said, if her family was watching the concert in person, they would get so worked up, that they pass out." Said Mal, "So they are cheering her on from home, as usual. Honestly... That whole family is a handful."
"So... they are more supportive than I thought they might have been." Sighed Isabelle in relief, "Again, we would like to apologize for everything we've caused."
"It's fine, really." Said Mal, "By the way, among the rest, you two and Dame Lavande seemed to look... more experienced. Have you performed before?"
"We have, for the demon school Babylus Battler Party Closing Spectacular." Nodded the platinum blonde-haired cambion, "I performed on vocals, percussion, and keyboard while Ryūko handles vocals, too, as well as the guitar and the violin. To be frank, we actually admire Kuromu's work. We even made a violin-keyboard composition for her song. If you would like the music scores, here."
The two girls pulled out two folded pieces of paper to Mal, who unfolded them to find a music score of Little Imp on violin and keyboard on them.
"This is a wonderful piece!" Complimented the dem-dol manager, "Can you give us an audio of the composition someday?"
"We would, if Kuromu would like to hear it." Said Ryūko.
Kuromu was watching Ryūko and Iruma chatting with Mal and thought: 'I'm glad everyone seemed to enjoy the show, but I think I just unintentionally helped Isa, Ryūko, and Iruma stand out even more. And I have to admit, he pulled off the look... and Ryūko and Isa looked more professional than the others, besides Lavande. I wonder... if I could get her to work with me someday. Still, I can't help but feel so frustrated!'
"Pardon me, Kuromu?" Addressed the violinist.
"Y-Yeah, what's up?" Stammered Kuromu.
Isabelle, Ryūko, and Iruma pulled out three autograph cards and asked the dem-dol: "Would you sign these, please?"
"Of course, I can!" Said Kuromu, signing the cards in the blink of an eye. Fan service wins over frustation.
The Next Day
At Demon School Babylus, Class A's Room
As Acheron entered the classroom, he noticed his classmates reading newspapers about the concert that happened last night.
He approached Eiko, Gaako, and Darris, who are sharing a newspaper, and asked: "Hey, guys. What are you reading?"
The three turned around and Eiko said: "Morning, Acheron. We were reading the latest headline: about Kuromu and The Merry Band of Friends making the night concert more memorable than ever."
"I can't really believe that Kuromu would be accompanied by this rag-tag group of dem-dols last night." Said Darris.
"Speaking of who, don't you think any of those dem-dols look familiar to you guys?" Asked Gaako.
"Unlikely, Gaako." Replied Darris before turning to Acheron. "Anyway, we're sorry that you missed out on all that fun and excitement."
"That's okay. I already watched a recorded version of the concert." Replied Acheron before thinking to himself, 'Even though I was there as Miranda.'
Misfit Class's Room
When Ryūko and her group entered the classroom, she, Isabelle, and Iruma saw Keroli intensely staring at the picture on the school newspaper.
"Good morning, Kuro- Keroli!" Greeted Iruma.
Keroli flinched, stood up from the bench and faced Iruma. "Hey, just so you're aware, mister, I won't be defeated by you, your sister, and your housemate's annoying habit of standing out!" Said Keroli, "You helped me out at the concert, but if tell anyone who I am, I'll make sure you regret it!"
"Fret not, Crocell." Reassured Ryūko, "We can be certain, that we will keep this secret."
Keroli felt comfortable with her words, despite fidgeting nervously while hiding her face behind the school newspaper.
"So, um... you see... I hope you'll still be my friends." Said Keroli.
Isabelle, Ryūko, and Iruma ended up making a rather unique friend.
"Hey, there's a page about the concert last night!" Said Lied.
"Oh, so there is." Said Goemon.
"Let me see!" Said Jazz.
Asmodeus and Lavande spotted the picture of them performing alongside Isabelle, Ryūko, Iruma and Clara, on one of the school papers.
"W-What in the world...?" Stammered Asmodeus.
"It's The Merry Band Of Friends!" Said Clara, "That's such a good photo! Hey, Iru-"
To avoid their identities from being blown, Asmodeus covered Clara's mouth.
"Quiet! It'll be a total disaster if they find out!" Said Asmodeus as Clara was strangely eating the paper, "As a highly esteemed member of the Asmodeus family, I... Stop eating that!"
"That mysterious septet who opened at Kuromu's show, they were so awesome!" Said Lead and Jazz agreed with him.
"All seven were so cute and beautiful... But still, for some reason, my heart doesn't seem to want to flutter..." Mumbled Kamui.
"Those blue-haired ones are such hotties." Said Goemon.
"Well, I liked the one with the orange hair way better." Said Lied.
"Oh s*** and f*** no!" Exclaimed Ryūko before she and Isabelle pushed Iruma out to a different direction, "Iruma, you go and get out of Crocell's glare! Isa and I will take the bullet for you!"
"Eh? O-Okay, thanks for that!" Said Iruma.
After settling that, Ryūko and Isabelle mentally prepared themselves for a good lesson. But in reality...
"Ryūko, Isa." Addressed Keroli quietly.
"If you're going to get mad at us, then it's fine." Said Ryūko, "But control your temper while you're at it."
"No, no. It's not that." Whispered Keroli, "Besides Lavande, you two seem more professional than the others. So... I was wondering... I-If you would like to work with me someday. We can do a collaboration."
Isabelle and Ryūko were shocked; they weren't expecting this affair to arise at all. To think that the most popular dem-dol was asking her if she would like to work alongside them.
"Hm... That is nothing related to our respective ambitions, so we shouldn't be wasting our time on something that is not related to any ambition we have, drafted or set on." Said Ryūko with her arms crossed.
Hearing this made Keroli a little disappointed, until Isabelle said: "But that does not mean that we will reject the offer entirely. As we live our days and grow, our decisions can change over time. So before we can be set on being a dem-dols, we will have to consider some other important things."
Keroli smiled at this and nodded in understanding before the three girls share a warm hug.
How their friendship will unfold remains to be seen.
~Interval~
Since Clara forced the costumes on Iruma, Acheron, and Asmodeus, so they went to change in another room, since Ryūko, Isabelle, Lavande, and Clara took the main dressing room.
"I know I said I'd figure out how to put it on myself, but... How do the heck girls' clothes even supposed to work?" Asked Iruma to himself. He fiddled with the dress, figuring out the best way to put it on him.
"Is there a zipper here?" Asked Iruma, "Can I just pull this over my head? Hmmm..."
A knock on the door was being heard and the cold voice of Ryūko asked: "May I come in?"
"Sis! Please help me!" Said Iruma, before Ryūko came in with her dress and corset on, "How do I put this on? Oh, and you look great, by the way."
"Thanks, brother." Said Ryūko, "I have sense of Gothic Lolita fashion in me, as well as sexy gothic fashion, so I know my style best. Just come over here, I'll help you out."
"Thanks, Sis." Said Iruma, "How are you doing, Azz?"
He and Ryūko froze upon seeing Asmodeus. Looked as if he didn't have any problems putting the dress on at all. At this point, he wished to disappear in an instant.
"Wow, Azz... You really are used to wearing those." Said Iruma.
"No! It's really not what you think it is! I just help my mother pick out the wardrobe, so I know how these things work!" Interjected Asmodeus, "It's not like I'm used to wearing those stuff all the time! Iruma, sir, are you listening?!"
Clearly, Iruma wasn't listening to what he said, but Ryūko was.
"Hey, what's going on?" a mysterious female voice from where she put her dress on.
"Excuse me but who are you?" Asked Iruma.
"Oh, Iruma. I'm still Acheron. I simply changed my voice to that of a girl so no one will supspect that I'm a boy." Said Acheron as he adjusted his wig.
Another knock on the door was heard and Ryūko gave the permission to that person come in. That person was Lavande, now in her dress. Asmodeus blushed, admiring her gorgeous looks. But again, realising what he was wearing, he wished to disappear instantly.
"Yup. I was listening to what you had to say, Asmodeus." Said Ryūko, taking a photo of him with her hellphone, "You can say I'm a pervert, because I ain't gonna delete this photo. It's hilarious."
At that point, she must have learned speaking in Kirio Amy's dialect, Keihan-ben, which is spoken with the Amy family and others who live amongst the same area they live in.
"Sir Asmodeus?" Addressed Lavande.
Asmodeus dropped on his knees to the floor in defeat and thought: 'I... I can't believe I humiliated myself in front of Miss Félin a second time in only one day... Is this a sign...? Am I... not worthy of her love...?'
Lavande was truly saddened to see Asmodeus she knew in despair once more. She kneeled in front of the me demon and lifted his chin up, so she can make eye contact with him.
"Is everything alright?" Asked Lavande softly, "This is not the true Sir Asmodeus Alice I remember."
Was she, Dame Lavande Félin, Knight of Flora... Was she going to reject him, Alice Asmodeus, the only son of Amuryllis Asmodeus: Thirteen Crowns' Lord of Seduction? Reject his friendship, his unknown love for her? Everything?
He definitely assumed for the worst. Tears were pricking from the corners of his magenta eyes.
"Miss Félin... I failed meeting your standards as a companion... I am... truly not worthy..." Cried Asmodeus, "You should find another demon, who shares his companionship as much as I do, but at least has a shred of dignity left... Someone like-"
The one thing he did not expect, was to feel the velvet gloved hand of the female knight to gently wipe way his tears.
And when she took the sides of his face in her hands and placed her forehead on his, his breath hitched for a second as he addressed her.
"All that being spoken... tis' not true. Thou art not the true Sir Alice Asmoeus, only son of the Thirteen Crowns's Lord of Seduction, that I remember." Said Lavande, "Thy loyalty brings no restraints, thou art fear not of speaking of thy thoughts, which may bring others to the wrong conclusions. However..." She pulled away and gave him a gentle smile, "Despite the wrongdoings, thou hast always rose thy face. That is something... I, Dame Lavande Félin, truly am moved by. Futhermore, hast one say thou hast not reached my requirements? Hast another say thou art not worthy of my companionship? I think not of such. There could not have been another demon who would bave the will to drape himself in a lady's garments, even if to menace with death thou hast offered. You, on the other side of a blade, may ascribe of and refuse to embellish something as mortifying, but for another's sake, thou consummates it, despite the humiliation of it. That itself, is admirable. Truly admirable. Therefore... I confer thee as a very worthy companion to stand at my side. Thou art a demon others of our kind should look up towards."
Asmodeus has heard enough, tackled Lavande and nuzzled against her neck affectionately. In turn, this made Lavande blush from the sudden feeling of returning Asmodeus to his real self.
"Oh, milady! Your words have warmed my heart entirely!" Said Asmodeus, "I'm incredibly glad to know that you deem me a very worthy companion! How else do I thank you?"
"There is nothing I ask for." Smiled Lavande, still blushing, "What I needed was to bring you forth of your despair and return you to the real Sir Asmodeus Alice I know."
She embraced the male demon back, while her blush fades away. She was truly happy that she brought her crush out of his despair. The twins watched the heartwarming scene as Ryūko helped Iruma with his dress struggles.
"Iruma, could you please take some photos of me?" Asked Ryūko, "I want to send some to Amy."
"Sure thing, Sis." Nodded Iruma.
He took his sister's hellphone and she did some poses as he took photos of her. Some of her poses are cute, some were cool, and some were even sexy. Surely, Ryūko knows how to charm her soulmate.
"But of course, despair finds you not of another path from the goal of your choice. All that was need for you, was to find another way to it. In this way, I have pulled away from despair and brought you back into the light of who you truly are."
- Dame Félin Lavande