Mairimashita! Iruma-kun: Shadows of the Past, part 31
The sun rose over the demon world and those under Sullivan's roof eagerly started their day. They had much to accomplish before the rest of the misfits arrived. Opera immediately began their duties before stirring their adoptive mother while Persephone, Kalego, Sullivan, Iruma, and Valiant each readied themselves for the day ahead.
Shichiro took an extra moment to register he wasn't alone as he came to. Blushing lightly, he smiled warmly to himself at the sight and sensation of his still sleeping beloved tightly curled up against him. It had taken hours to calm Pandora enough to rest the night before, but it was well worth it. Seeing her look so peaceful there beside him for the first time would become a precious memory.
A little later, in the living room, Opera led Pandora through her morning exercise routine with an approving grin. She wouldn't need them much longer unless she was serious about raising her rank to catch up with her friends. She looked tired, but was still putting in her best effort.
As they stretched in unison, a few others had surprisingly joined in. Opera glanced at their enlarged class. Shichiro was unable to leave Pandora's side, expected after the tumultuous night they'd had. Beside them, Valiant, too, participated, trying to keep his jealous mind off of his rival. Lastly, Sullivan and Iruma had joined in, an effort to cheer each other on for the days ahead.
Nearby, Kalego observed them with an odd expression. Just what were those fools doing? Watching them all move about in sync reminded him of the music festival. He grinned faintly, recalling the hard work his students had put in for that. They would reunite very soon.
Beside him, Persephone was thoroughly examining her master. Nene was doing much better, but not exactly up to par just yet. Much of the darkness in her wings had been purged through Iruma's blood over the last few days, but thankfully, she no longer needed further doses.
After breakfast, Persephone surprised her cousin, unexpectedly hauling Pandora from the table. Balam was concerned to find her suddenly missing, but once he saw them across the room, he relaxed. Undoubtedly it was time for girl talk after the abrupt change to sleeping arrangements the night before. Of course, that set a new kind of panic loose in his mind.
Sure enough, Persephone was grilling her cousin for details. In all honesty, it was a ploy to distract Pandora from her worries and fragile state of mind. It worked well as Persephone was expertly playing her part.
Pandora nervously waved her hands with a red face. "Nothing happened, I swear!", she said, pleading for mercy. Persephone grinned to herself as she held her chin in thought. "Knowing you two, I figured as much, but we can fix that. I have just the 'outfit' to loan you...We'll have to take it in some to fit your figure, but it'll make do", she uttered. Pandora was turning colors again.
"Per-chan!", she said plaintively, way too loudly. Kaleho hid a smirk as the rest of the room quickly pretended not to notice. Persephone looked at her cousin in surprise. Pandora had never called her that before.
Taking a calming breath, Pandora said, "I don't need you to meddle. Shichiro-kun and I are fine as we are." Persephone smiled softly. "I understand, but if you change your mind, you just have to ask", she replied with a grin. She was pleased her distraction had worked. She'd much rather see her cousin embarrassed than fearful.
Once the morning business was done, everyone got ready to enact the next stage of their plan. Iruma wasn't the only one to make phone calls the day before. Kalego and Balam had also reached out as teachers for a 'special training program' for the abnormal class. After all, the kids using the prestige of Royal One couldn't get lazy while the school was closed.
Right on time, the doorbell rang and Opera responded promptly. Chief Azazel and his daughter had also been called in for added security. Henri stared briefly at Kalego before entering, wondering if this coverup would actually work, but they needed to protect the teens while keeping them relatively uninvolved. He immediately reminded Ameri she was only there for work experience, giving Iruma a warning glance as he passed by to meet with Sullivan to discuss the final details.
Waiting until after they headed into the principal's office, Ameri beelined for Iruma. She fussed over his bandaged arm, demanding to know what had possessed him to attempt such a dangerous spell again. Keeping up with his white lie, he apologized profusely.
"I'm sorry, Ameri-san! I really didn't mean to worry anyone", he said, bowing deeply. The irritated twinge in her eye slowly faded. With a breath of relief, she tried to relax.
"You're lucky you only broke your arm and that a healer was nearby...Don't be so reckless in the future", she chided, trying to smile. She truly had been concerned, but now she was just happy to see him again. "Right!", he agreed. They grinned at one another, having reached an understanding.
Opera then reminded Iruma that he needed to get ready for the others. Nodding, the boy excused himself, leaving his butler to acknowledge Ameri alone. Iruma had told them his cover story about the insect incident. They had to be consistent to keep up appearances.
Opera lowered his head in respect. "Please forgive Iruma-sama. The folly of youth makes it tempting to do ridiculous things", they said. Ameri waved her hands nervously at the gesture. "Ah, I'm not mad, really!...I was just worried! It was so unexpected, then there were no updates, and the school closed so suddenly", she uttered. Opera offered her a kind grin, appreciative of her concern. Iruma clearly meant a lot to her.
A little later, Opera led Henri and Ameri around the property in a perimeter inspection while the others held one last meeting. Everyone had to know their roles if they were going to pull this plan off.
Once Sullivan had recapped everything, everyone slowly looked to Pandora. "Are you sure you're going to be okay participating like this?", asked Balam with worry. She had barely made it through the night and now they were asking her to stand in the proverbial spotlight.
Determined to help, Pandora nodded resolutely. "With all of you here to help me, I can do it", she said, trying to smile for her friends. Kalego peered at her skeptically. "Are you certain? We still have time to make adjustments", he ventured.
"He's right, Pan-chan. If we need to change our plans, it has to be now. Once the students arrive, it'll be too late", added Persephone, also concerned. Pandora smiled to herself, touched that everyone cared so much.
"I'll be fine. I just have to let them guard me, right?", she said, a little anxiously. Shichiro held her hand in support. "If they start asking too many questions - ", he began. With an evil grin, Kalego interjected. "If the brats make you feel uncomfortable, just tell them I'll double their homework."
"Or I can set up another obstacle course", added Persephone. Pandora tried to smile, but she worried for the arriving teens. Kalego and Persephone were already eager to whip them into line. Balam smiled with his eyes to ease her fears, used to their methods.
"Then we will count on you to perform your role, Pandora-chan. I will rouse Nene-chan and Vincente-kun. They should be about ready to join us… Remember, everyone - This plan hinges on all of us cooperating flawlessly. It is our responsibility to get our students ready for the evil on the horizon. We can't afford to fail them", said Sullivan.
Not long after, everyone gathered outside as the other misfits arrived via Valiant's portals. It had been agreed upon as the safest method of travel the day before. While he hadn't actually been to each student's home before, they had found a way to work around it.
It was a novel idea, but seemed to be working. With a boost of mana from Sullivan and details from Kalego's memories when he'd completed his home visits, Vincente used the students' phone signals from Iruma's cell to triangulate their locations. Each had been instructed the day before when to watch for their portal to open. Impressively, he seemed to hold all twelve open at once.
"Yo, Iruma-kun, it's been a while", grinned Jazz in greeting, stepping through with his bag of belongings held across his shoulder. His eyes settled over his friend's wounded limb. He quickly joined Lied to listen to the explanation. They were promptly interrupted by a loud, yet familiar voice.
"Irumachi!!!", cried Clara, ecstatic to see him. She immediately knocked him to the ground in a heartfelt embrace. "I was so worried!", she said, fighting off tears. Iruma assured he would be alright as he returned her hug. He was about to remind her to play along with the cover story when another demon joined the love pile. "Iruma-sama!!!", exclaimed Azz, relieved tears on his face.
Their classmates chuckled at the sight. "Iruma's army is back together", grinned Sabnock. Beside him, Lied did his best sensei impression. "That love fest. How unsightly", he scowled. The other boys laughed hysterically at their teacher's expense, but his approach broke up their fun.
"Alright, you brats - Line up. This is training, not a holiday", said Kalego sternly, reining them in. Quickly obeying, the class did just that. Persephone smirked in approval as she joined her lover. "Not bad. There's hope for you kids yet", she teased.
The last of the misfits stepped out from their portals, eagerly looking around. It was certainly an interesting way to move about. Joining their friends, the abnormal class was together again. The adults lined up as well, facing their students amid the chatter of their reunion.
"Silence! You know why you're here. You each agreed to this special regimen… I expect you to do your best not to tarnish the prestige of Royal One", scowled Kalego. Persephone stepped up next, prompting the teens to swallow hard. They hadn't forgotten their drill instructor.
"All right kids, let's make sure your skills haven't gotten rusty. You wouldn't want to get demoted, would you?", she grinned, a dark gleam in her eye. The students shuddered, preparing for whatever hell she was going to throw at them.
Thankfully, a friendlier voice intervened. "Abnormal class, thank you for attending this private lesson. Make sure you listen to your teachers and stay on your best behavior", grinned Sullivan. Straightening up, the teens answered as one, "Yes, sir!".
"As you can see, police chief Azazel and the student council president have chosen to oversee this exercise. They are here to help monitor your progress and advise when needed", said Sullivan, making an excuse for their presence.
Henri and Ameri both held a stern gaze over the class, playing their part. Henri held his silence as Ameri stepped forward. "Alumni of Babylus, you are at the chair demon's personal estate. I expect you to respect that and show him what you've learned this year", she bellowed. "Yes, sir!", they replied in unison. She grinned at their obedience and her father's hidden approval. She would make him proud.
"Being that there are so many of you, we're going to break you into teams. Unfortunately, your other tutors and masters could not attend since they are busy at the school, but we'll take good care of you", said the principal.
Standing beside him, Kalego read from his list. "Sabnock and Asmodeus - Naturally, you're with Balam-sensei, along with Agares. Elizabetta, Kerori, and Valac - you're assigned to Lamya-sensei. Camui, Allocer, and Purson - you'll be with Vincente-san."
They all looked toward their newest instructor in curiosity. He had an aura of wealth and intrigue to him, but held a friendly smile as he gently waved in greeting.
"Gaap, Iruma, Jazz, and Lied - you're with me. Lady Nene and the chair demon will be floating between your groups to observe...Be advised, once we begin this training, you can't back out. Anyone who wants to wuss out, speak now." He watched his class carefully, waiting to see who would break rank. Thankfully, Iruma's phone calls had everyone fired up for the long haul.
Kalego grinned in approval. "All right then. Don't come whining to me later...Split into your teams and report to your assigned sensei. You have five minutes. That is all", said Kalego, dismissing his class to mingle briefly.
As everyone parted, Sabnock happily greeted his master. While glad to see him again, Azzkun had met Balam's eyes briefly and, after a permitting nod, approached Pandora off to the side. She was surprised by his sudden bow. "Hekate-san, I am honored to greet you properly", he said. Placing a gentle hand on his shoulder, she smiled warmly.
"There's no need to be so formal with me, Asmodeus-kun", she said. Grinning at her kindness, he resumed his natural stature. Taking her hand, he smiled invitingly. "Nor with me. Please, call me Azz", he stated. Accepting the gesture and sharing a smile, the two seemed to be becoming fast friends, bonded by their mutual relationships to Balam.
Taking a serious tone and expression, Azzkun stepped closer as he lowered his voice. "Pandora-san, Master Balam told me everything… I want you to know that your past is safe with me and I gladly offer my help in guarding your future… The way he looks at you, I've never seen sensei so happy. I want to protect that for both of you."
She blushed at his earnest words, but was so happy to hear them. She surprised him with an unexpected hug. "Thank you", she said sincerely. The moment was cut short as Balam and Sabnock joined the duo.
Sabro smiled wide, excited to finally meet her. "So you're the master's girlfriend. I see he chose well", he grinned, complimenting her beauty. Her face tinged pink with a pleasant smile. "You must be Sabnock-kun. I've been looking forward to meeting you", she replied.
By the hug, it was pretty obvious she had already met Asmodeus, but the two teens had quietly discussed her existence over a phone call after Azz initially met her at school. Neither expected their shy sensei to be dating, but both could instantly see her abundant kindness. It was easy to see how potentially good she was for Balam.
Agares yawned as he floated toward them. His team mates were a little confused by his assignment, but it did even out the groups. "Why am I here?", he asked hazily. Beneath his mask, Balam grinned faintly. "Your bloodline magic is strong, but you need to train your body. I'm going to help with that", he explained. Agares didn't look too pleased by the thought of exercise. Why couldn't people just let him sleep?
Nearby, the three girls gathered in front of Persephone. They weren't quite sure what to expect. Their new sensei smiled reassuringly. "I am not the masters you are used to, but I am not unkind. Don't expect any favoritism and put in your maximum effort. If you can do that and prove to me that you can pull your weight, you might just earn my respect. Now then, let's go over your assignments", she said.
The next group over stared at their instructor in question. They had never seen or heard of this demon before and now they were being entrusted to his care. Bowing graciously, he introduced himself. "I am Vincente Valiant. Pleased to make your acquaintance", he said.
Resuming a mildly imposing air, he grinned at his students. "I know you've never heard of me and for a valid reason; That means I'm good at my job. To be blunt, I'm a spy. I smuggle goods, people, and information along the front lines... You three have been chosen to be put in my hands because I believe I can mold your skills into a useful network. To put in it simply, you three possess the greatest potential to follow my trade."
Camui and Allocer glanced at one another in thought while Purson simply hid a grin. His bloodline made him perfect for this line of work. He was a little surprised at first, but he was glad Kalego had placed him with Vincente. What he didn't know was the other reason for his placement.
While he was likely safe from Victoria since she had already acquired his family ability, it was best to keep him as far away from her as possible. The further from Kalego he was, the less likely he was going to learn about his brother's untimely demise. The adults had agreed to inform him at a better time in private. The last thing anyone needed was for a student to run off after Ai enraged by a vendetta; They wouldn't stand a chance.
Allocer peered inquisitively at his new sensei. "You must have quite the extensive information network", he ventured, eager to learn more. With a smug grin, Vincente affirmed, "I do." Next Camui spoke up in a flustered voice. "Is it true that spies get all the girls?!" Valiant chuckled lightly. "It certainly doesn't hurt your chances", he winked. Just like that, his group was ready to follow him.
Lastly, Kalego looked over his students. Three of them wondered how they'd failed the luck of the draw a second time. First Walter Park; Now they were stuck with the prince of darkness once again. Still, their sensei seemed to be in a better mood than usual. They were curious as to why, but not about to ruin it by asking questions. Maybe it was his time off from work. Either way, they knew he wouldn't go easy on them.
Beside his classmates, Iruma grinned to himself, pleased with the agreed plan. He knew Lied and Jazz would be safe under Kalego's stern watch. He'd been worried when told about Kiriwo's involvement and their stolen files, but with all of his friends working together, he was determined that they would be enough to stand against Victoria.
Everyone turned to the sound of loud clapping. Lady Nene and Lord Sullivan grinned kindly over the gathering. Lowering her hands, Nene smiled serenely.
"Welcome to this special training camp. You are the only class to collectively reach rank four in their first year. That in itself is a mark of prestige. You have defeated enemies, gained allies, and even obtained the Royal One. These reasons are why you have been chosen for this program. To put it simply, this will be a war exercise. We intend to put you under extreme pressure to observe how you will react", she explained.
Adding to her words, Sullivan said, "This event has been constructed specifically for the abnormal class. Part of this test will be seeing how well you can keep information amongst yourselves. What you will practice here over the next few days is not to be discussed with the rest of the school. President Azazel-chan understands this and will be a shining example of what you will strive to be."
Ameri held a stern gaze as Kalego stepped up next. This would be a test of his acting skills, but he had to play his part. After all, it was his duty to prepare and protect his class at all costs.
"Im sure most of you recognize the name of our guest, Lady Nene. She has taken precious time away from her duties to help oversee this training. Do not waste her time", he said pointedly. A few murmurs bubbled up among the teens at her reputation, but quickly quieted at their sensei's raised hand.
"We have recruited someone specific to play the part of the enemy leader - Victoria Ai. Some of you have already met this demon; The rest will receive a dossier with her perceived information. Do not mistake this exercise as a fun excursion. If you get captured, you will be severely punished… While I can't promise what that will entail exactly, I can tell you that Victoria will not withhold any methods she thinks may turn you to her side or annihilate you if perceived as a threat", he continued.
The teens swallowed hard. This exclusive training event was getting heavy quickly. "What's the worst she could do?", asked Lied nervously. "At worst? She could kill you", stated Kalego darkly. He knew she was capable of much worse than that, but he didn't want to completely terrify his students on the first day.
"Wait. If this is a war drill, then we must be the army", ventured Jazz. "Does that make you our generals?", asked Allocer. Kalego smirked at their shrewdness. "Not quite. Each team will be assigned roles", he replied.
Stepping up, Persephone explained further. "We teachers will be your advisors, senior officers, and occasionally the enemy forces. You will all have individual objectives to complete, but the common goal you will share is to protect our informant and each other. For this exercise, Pandora will play the role of an enemy agent who has defected to our side. That being said, Victoria will stop at nothing to silence her… If she falls, all of you will instantly fail. Is that clear?"
She watched them with an intimidating aura as her cousin anxiously waved to the gathered students in greeting. With a nervous collective nod, she stepped aside for the next speaker.
Balam stepped forward next. "These are your assignments - Team Kalego, you're the infantry. Team Vincente, you are our spies. Team Lamya will represent the unknowns; One will be a healer, another an enemy agent, and the third remains for you to identify... A warzone is chaotic. You won't have all of the information… As for my team - Team Balam will be your generals." He smiled with pride behind his mask. He was looking forward to seeing what his disciples were capable of.
Sabnock grinned at the prospect while Azz immediately raised his hand. "I object! If I'm a general, then Iruma-sama must be our king!", he argued. Kalego stared flatly. He'd anticipated this.
Elizabetta also raised her hand. "Lied-kun and Iruma-kun were the young kings at the harvest festival. It would make sense for at least one of them to be our leader", she ventured. Other voices called out in agreement. Kalego sighed, already irritated.
Speaking up, Sullivan stepped in. "Let's leave that to the two of them, shall we?", he grinned. All eyes turned upon the duo. Lied and Iruma glanced at one another in question. Before Iruma could speak, Lied grinned wide and thrusted his friend's hand into the air. "Long live the king!", he cheered, prompting the others to join in.
"As expected of Iruma-sama!", grinned Azz, pleased and proud. "Yay, Irumachi's our king!", celebrated Clara. "Iruma did get us our classroom", admitted Kerori begrudgingly. He was standing out again.
Kalego fought off an eye twitch at their fervor as Balam grinned beside him. "At least they get along well", he offered. "Too well", grumbled Kalego. Still, everyone seemed to be in agreement. Iruma smiled shyly at the cheers as Azz excitedly recognized this was his chance to prove himself as his spear. At least no one was questioning the purpose of this ordeal.
"Enough!", bellowed Persephone. "Report to your groups for debriefing; We have a lot to cover. Be mindful over the next few days that you will be pushed past your limits. You will get hurt… Nene-sama will be providing first aid as needed while Lord Sullivan will be the final judge to either pass or fail you as a group."
The mood shifted to determination at her words. Building off that, Kalego added, "Also remember that chief and president Azazel and Opera-san are your security officers. If you notice something unusual, report it to them immediately. Being observant is also part of your test here. The smallest ignored detail can easily take down an entire regiment on the battlefield. Do not underestimate the power of espionage."
He glanced at Balam for his final thoughts before breaking into groups. "Do your best", was all Shichiro could say after all of that. Trying to keep spirits high, Sullivan cheerfully called out, "And don't forget to have fun!".
To be continued...