Lost and Found

by YumeTakato

Opera had never believed themselves to be the parenting type- nor had they ever envisioned themselves in such a position. Eventually fate tears them away from their child, and fourteen years pass in fits and stops. Their Lord arrives with a thin human child and proclaims him his grandson. Yet, Iruma has his secrets, and he is unwilling to reveal his truth for the sake of freedom.

8. Gargoyle and Fun

I won't be going into the Girls Talk chapter that happens after exams since Iruma isn't directly involved. I also won't be going too in-depth with Walter Park due to the multiple POV's in canon. It's still pretty lengthy though…

Please let me know if you enjoyed it and leave a review!

TW: Iruma's shitty parents and the things they put him through, swearing, and kissing.

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Iruma doesn't mind it so much at first when he's picked up by Asmodeus and Clara for school, but slowly the space between them becomes quite small.

Clara is literally clinging onto his leg like a Koala.

The two are bickering as usual, which is fine… but they are both close, and while comforting, clearly…

"Uhm, is something wrong..?"

There isn't much of an answer from the two of them as they make it into Royal One. Iruma can kind of understand why they're like this. They haven't had the chance to be close for the past several weeks due to being in the Student Council, let alone his mean stint the past week (Thanks Ali-san-), but…

Lied cups his chin as he observes the three of them after they've taken their seats, "They're really stuck to ya, huh?"

Iruma takes their concern in stride as they keep close. "Clara's afraid I'll go into my Wicked Phase again."

Jazz can't help the small smirk on his face, "She's like a kid who just had a nightmare."

Lied can't help but shift his focus, "And Azz-kun?"

Asmodeus shifts forward while speaking with passion, "I am Iruma-sama's aide-de-camp! I shall cleave to his side and restrain him at the first sign of change!"

Jazz snorts, "Looks pretty restrained now."

Lied nods absently, "He must've been lonely-" He conspiratorially leans towards Iruma, "You're so popular, Iruma-kun."

Iruma's kind of embarrassed, "Y-yeah…"

The rest of the class crowds the three of them, to try and convince Asmodeus and Clara to un-glue themselves from Iruma's side. Their attempts all end in failure, and Iruma decides he needs a second to himself. He goes to stand despite his friend's clinging to his uniform.

Jazz makes a decisive blow. "You know, you're gonna be a bother if you keep clinging like that."

The absolute dejection on Amodeus and Clara's faces as they slowly let him go causes his heart to wrench in guilt and he plops back down between them. He doesn't want them to feel bad..!

Lied is unimpressed with how easily pushed over Iruma is, "That's worse." He then grins as Sabnock joins in while being a little grabby, "Whelp. Nothing to do for it, so we'll join in, too!"

Iruma's startled, "Eh!?" Is that normal for demons to just arbitrarily decide to get clingy like that!?

Iruma, Asmodeus, and Clara are all abruptly buried in the collective affection of their classmates and their attempts to get as close as possible. (The fact that even Agares is joining in is kind of-)

Kalego steps into the classroom and has no idea what to make of his student's strange behavior, "What are you all doing? That's disgusting." That much affection? This early in the morning? Gross.

Kalego moves over to his chair in front of the classroom as everyone takes their proper seats, plops down, and decides he just doesn't give a shit. "Now then, as you see on your handout, there will be fewer classes after today. Don't get excited just because you have more free time. It's almost the final day, so you should all get ready."

Iruma feels a chill down his back as he can't help but ask, "Final day..?"

Asmodeus explains summer vacation while his classmates rejoice.

Kalego ruins it for them, "But before that you'll have to take tests on all of your lectures."

There is stunned horrified silence as Lied screams, "Hold on! We're getting tests on all our lectures!?"

Kalego looks at him matter-of-factly, "Naturally you'll have to take supplemental lessons if you fail." Look at your schedule, fool.

Kalego smirks as he looks over his panicking students with sadistic glee, "Make sure you get a score befitting this classroom."

Asmodeus sighs, "Those fools, honestly. It's their fault for not being prepared, right Iruma-sa-?"

Iruma has suffered an emotional one hit K.O. as he feels a trickle of blood seep from his mouth and witnesses the light at the end of the tunnel.

"IRUMA-SAMA!?"

Asmodeus coaxes Iruma to their Battra as Clara tags along. Iruma awkwardly explains his reaction to him.

"Uhm, so I've… never studied before." He ruffles his hair with a flush, "Or that's to say, I never learned how." Being forced to work the majority of his young life left little in the aspect of actual study. He's grateful for what education he has, but he has more practical skills than study skills.

The fact Asmodeus and Clara believe it'll be super easy and that he's smart just makes things worse for him. Asmodeus suggests they compare previous quizzes, and the three of them are left to wonder at his abysmal scores.

Asmodeus is… floored by Iruma's test scores.

Iruma's pallor goes pale as he tears up, "I'm so sorry-"

Clara just makes things worse, "Can you even read?"

Iruma slumps, "No, I can, it's just…" He looks the papers over and can't help but scrunch up his face in thought. 'Even though grandpa's Magic translates demon for me, none of it makes sense!'

Asmodeus barrates her for being rude, while Clara shows off her poor, but still higher scores. "You're below me, idiot!"

Iruma bows in defeat.

Asmodeus ponders for a thoughtful moment. He's… baffled more and more by Iruma. He's knowledgeable in ways he isn't, yet less knowledgeable than a young child in others. Asmodeus knows Iruma has what it takes to become the Demon King, he saw a vision of it. He's certain it's possible.

Asmodeus will reciprocate his immense kindness and bolster his knowledge for the sake of that future.

"Azz-kun..?"

Asmodeus leans forward, "I'm sure that you can ace your tests! After class we'll study, and if there's anything you don't understand, I'll explain it to you! Those that do well on their tests can increase their Rank! This is your chance to become a Rank Daleth (4)!"

Clara chimes in, "We can all beat the tests together!"

"Let's do it!"

Iruma smiles, glad that he hasn't disappointed his friends, "...Okay!" He joins in on their excitement, "The three of us are teaming up and aiming for a perfect score!"

…And then Schnell makes his new introductory appearance as their new Battra member.

Iruma is almost annoyed with Ameri, until he remembers Schnell is weirdly obsessed with her, and agrees with taking the creep off of her hands.

At least Asmodeus and Clara also find his behavior insufferable as they end up hazing him into the Battra.

xXx-xXx-scholar-xXx-xXx

Iruma can't help but feel overwhelmed. He's studying, but he feels like he's still too far out of his depth.

He makes his way down to dinner weakly. Sullivan states his worries about him and makes terribly tempting suggestions.

And then Opera has to diffuse the situation while making it simultaneously worse by stating, "You don't need to go so far Principal, because Iruma-sama is a serious person who will pass his tests wit G~ S~."

Iruma is left speechless as he returns to his room weak-kneed. He couldn't even eat thirds.

Ali-san makes his appearance and sits on his knees with a short bow, "I appreciate all that you've done for me." "Eh?" "I'm about to disappear very soon-"

Ali makes a ruckus, "IRU-BOY IS AN IDIOT! HE GOT ALL RED MARKS ON HIS TESTS! HE'S AN IDIOT! HIS RANK WILL GO DOWN AND I'LL DISAPPEAR!"

Iruma can't help the slight hysteria as he flushes in shame, "You find it amusing don't you!? STOP IT!"

Alikured huffs, "I'm worried y'know."

Iruma waffles, "I-I'm fine!" He ponders how high he needs to score to avoid failing before simply cheering himself on, "Well, I'll just have to avoid all red marks!"

xXx-xXx-scholar-xXx-xXx

Everyone is studying in Royal one. They all proclaim they will defeat red marks in a similar manner to himself. Iruma's relieved he isn't the only one suffering from being an idiot.

(He has more of an excuse, but the school won't see it that way.)

Asmodeus coaxes him along to the side, and sets out a number of quiz-study books for him and Clara to be tested on.

The three of them go through each book. Clara answers a few correctly. Asmodeus gets all of the questions right.

Iruma gets a big fat zero on everything.

That is, until he opens a book on Imaginary Beings of Demonic History.

How many limbs a human has, what cats eat, etc, etc…

He gets one hundred percent and suffers the highs and lows of study as everyone congratulates him on the score.

He reads the author's name.

Balam Shichirou..?

"Iruma-sama, the next class is Demonic History, so why don't we capitalize on the subject you got 100 marks in?!"

Iruma goes with the flow with a happy nod. Asmodeus, Clara, and Iruma head over to the next class. Iruma's riding high on positivity that he actually can be smart, that he's a little startled by the two students running out of the classroom.

Asmodeus stops them to ask what's going on. "Dali-sensei is off due to his Wicked Phase, so Balam-sensei's filling in!"

The three of them enter into the seemingly empty classroom, and Iruma is hit with a familiar scent.

His mind nearly whites out as his senses are entirely focused on it. It isn't a distant scent, nor is it clinging skin deep.

It is here and fresh and it's so achingly familiar that it causes something forgotten to stir up inside of him-

He opens his mouth to breathe in and taste the scent. It is a scent that tastes like safety-

In his haze, he misses Asmodeus's misgiving words about staying.

"...Should we stop for today?"

Iruma snaps back to Asmodeus's voice, "No I mean, I'd like to stay for the Less[on]..?" Something wraps around Iruma's chest and he's lifted upwards.

Iruma glances down at the much larger upside down demon holding him up in the air and finally gains a face for the scent. "I'm happy to hear that! Let's give this one a warm welcome!" The man behind the scent isn't anything like what Iruma's imagined. -Not that he had much of a baseline, but he's still somehow floored by the demon's demeanor and appearance.

Balam-sensei is swift to begin his lesson, while taking turns petting his Pack.

Clara takes it in stride, Asmodeus is annoyed, and Iruma is still so mentally overwhelmed that he just doesn't care. His clips aren't disturbed despite Balam's swift and thorough affection, so he's clearly quite gentle despite how… odd it is.

However, Iruma is trying to make sense of it. He's trying to keep a firm grasp on his thoughts, yet…

His butler is fucking two teachers.

He wants to die. Iruma really really wants to die.

Why did he have to be so over-sensitive to this sort of thing?

He blames his shitty human parents for this. For making him work at a love hotel not just once, not just twice, but three fucking times. Each time he'd become more and more hyper aware of the activities behind closed doors, and he could read people's hearts and feel their carnal thoughts. It made his skin crawl and itch as he grew older.

He'd even gone so far as to visit shrines on occasion, because despite his weird not-human parts, he still found a need to come clean.

There wasn't really Magic in the Human Realm- or really, there wasn't Mana, but there was Spirit.

There were humans that were sensitive to the Spiritual Realm, and even though he'd had salt thrown on him a few times, they'd come to understand he meant no harm, and was looking for self-purification.

They welcomed him after that, when he'd run under the tori and pray.

Still. The thought that his butler was… together like that with not just his homeroom teacher/familiar (which honestly killed him emotionally when he recalled), but another teacher he wasn't familiar with..?

Like. He knew they worked in the same school, but this was a bit much. Iruma knew it wasn't his business, he didn't need it to be his business, but…

Balam-sensei was huge compared to Kalego and Opera.

A nearby student pulls him out of his spiraling thoughts, "Oh yeah, I hear Balam-sensei touches you to see if you're a suitable test subject for his experiments. On top of that-"

Balam-sensei lifts a finger, "Now for today, let's talk about humans."

The other student grumbles, "-There it is, the discussion of imaginary beings…"

Balam-sensei shows off a labeled dummy. "Let's say a human appeared before you, what would you do?"

A student chimes in, "Obviously eat them!" "Aren't they super delicious!?" "That's all theoretical though…"

Iruma's blood goes cold. He blocks out the school's song and pretends it has nothing to do with him to stay sane.

Balam-sensei pokes the dummy and explains how that's a logical conclusion. Yet, when asked about what he'd do if he ran into a human, Balam-sensei goes deathly silent as he stares at the 'human' dummy. The students are both annoyed and freaked out by his stillness before he adjusts his mask and responds. "Well, if I met a human… I'd want to know how they'd lived."

He goes on to explain how the Human Realm is more peaceful than the Netherworld. That demons evolved wings, tails, and horns to protect themselves and escape while imaginary creatures did not.

Balam-sensei comes close and rubs Iruma's back during this explanation. Iruma flinches, not in fear, but in surprise. His back hurts, but there is a vague relief at the soothing motion. His Mana unexpectedly reaches out- he hasn't had enough contact with others lately- and Iruma panics when Balam-sensei freezes.

Iruma can't help the frightening familiarity of Balam-sensei's Mana. He manages to pull away and look up at his teacher embarrassed.

Balam-sensei observes him curiously for a moment before giving him something that must equate to a smile before gently patting him on the head as he continues his lesson.

Iruma isn't capable of absorbing anything else after that.

Balam-sensei's Mana hadn't lashed out against his accidental pull, and he wasn't mad.

Why was it so achingly familiar..?

xXx-xXx-scholar-xXx-xXx

"Iruma-kun, can I speak with you?"

The boy barely disguises his flinch at Shichirou's words before nodding. His friends are concerned, but the boy waves them off with an embarrassed wave.

The boy's Mana had reached out and latched onto his for a brief moment. It had clearly startled the boy as much as it had him, but sometimes these things happened.

Teenagers sometimes didn't get all of their needs fulfilled due to their desire to separate from their parent's coddling, and every once in a while, their Mana would reach out towards that of their teacher's to fill the growing void.

However, Shichirou knew that wasn't entirely the case with Iruma. He knows of his odd grooming habits with his classmates due to Kalego's observations. He knows the boy is new to his home environment, and that he's been pulled in and out of his home.

Iruma's stint in the Student Council was rather infamous.

Shichirou can see the signs of Mana fatigue and loss.

It somehow doesn't surprise Shichirou that Iruma's Mana latched onto his. Shichirou is a rather touchy-feely demon with a lot of Mana. He coats the school in his Mana during tests to catch cheaters, so it's no surprise that the boy might've unconsciously recognized his brand of Magic.

Still. The boy is amazingly docile, despite whatever rough upbringing he's had.

Shichirou adjusts his mask as they walk towards the History Prep room that makes up his office. Iruma's hair is lacking a healthy sheen, and his eyes aren't as bright as they should be despite his positive attitude… and really, he'd had plenty of time to observe the boy today in class.

Iruma had been transfixed on him since the moment their eyes met. It had been unnerving to have a student's attention so thoroughly focused on him. So much so, that he'd purposely gone over to touch his back and make sure he was still breathing. He'd been half worried that Iruma'd been scared to death by his appearance.

Shichirou knows his overall stature is a bit imposing.

"Take a seat, and I'll make some tea, alright?"

Iruma tilts his head before nodding. The boy is a bit confused, but that's alright. Shichirou takes great care in making a cup of tea for his newly acquired student, and holds out the finished product on a tray. "It should taste good but it's hot, so be careful…"

Iruma takes the cup without hesitation. The teen has been observing his every movement, so Shichirou almost misses the words that fall out of his mouth. "Balam-sensei, the truth is… I'm human."

Iruma quickly covers his mouth in surprise, "...Eh?!" Shichirou is trying to process Iruma's words while Iruma attempts to backtrack, "Eh! Ah, er-!"

Shichirou leans forward with building excitement, "Did you just say you're human!?"

"No! I didn't!" Buzzer goes off, of course it wasn't necessary. He had ears. He knows he heard the boy admit it.

"Don't lie to me now! You just said you're a human, didn't you!?"

"Augh… Y-yes." Buzzer trembles weirdly at this. It isn't a reaction he's ever experienced before, so he has to brush it off. Maybe Buzzer doesn't work the same way on humans as it does with demons.

Shichirou feels faint and falls off of his chair. Iruma panics and asks if he's alright, but he isn't.

He isn't because how could Opera keep this sort of information from him!?

Shichirou can understand Kalego, but him!? The one demon who's been obsessed with the idea of humans actually being real!?

He shakily sits up, "D-do humans have wings?" "No." "Horns?" "Nope." "A tail..?" "Unfortunately, no."

Shichirou feels something building. He's feeling too excited and nervous all at once. A REAL LIVE HUMAN!

Just because Opera gave birth to a half-human-half-demon child doesn't mean that it solidified the reality they existed! He'd only held the child once before passing him off to Kalego! This is so exciting and overwhelming for him!

Iruma reaches out towards him, "Uhm…"

Shichirou swiftly pulls back and hides behind a piece of furniture while holding out a hand, "Don't come any closer!" Iruma gets seemingly nervous as he continues, "I might not be able to hold back because… I'll get really excited!"

Iruma's face goes blank for a moment as he processes that information.

Shichirou turns around and has an unintentionally external rant in his excitement. "A human! A REAL LIVE HUMAN!" He was right about them not having wings!

The teen shifts closer, "Uhm, are you going to eat me now..?"

Shichirou whips around to face him, "I mean, I am curious about you! But! You're an endangered species! Why would I do that!?"

Shichirou misses Iruma's puzzled expression as he laments to himself, "I mean~! To be honest, I re~ally wanna touch you but-" He's restraining himself, okay!?

Iruma has to ruin his amazing self-control by poking him. Shichirou can't help his dramatic flinch before turning on the teen, "You-!" This boy!

Iruma chuckles as he rubs the back of his head, "S-sorry, I couldn't help it…"

Shichirou's building excitement turns into concern as his mind rapid-fires into the realm of safety, "You ought to be more careful about identity! Not everyone will react the way I did about your nature! Are you wearing scent masking perfume!? What are you doing to protect yourself?!"

Iruma's grateful for his worry for his safety, but Shichirou is by no means done with his rant.

He loses track of time while lecturing the boy. Iruma even has the gall to poke him again, and eventually Shichirou's need to coddle the boy wins out.

He's pleased while holding him and ruffling his fur-soft hair when a realization strikes him, "I got used to it!"

Iruma is a bit exhausted in his arms as he agrees in amusement, "I'll say."

xXx-xXx-scholar-xXx-xXx

His Pack is studying, and Asmodeus is swift to abandon them.

Jazz even goes so far as to call for a separation of smart vs dumb [as worms].

Iruma knows demons aren't particularly charitable, so the fact Asmodeus is willing enough to tutor him just shows how important their friendship is.

Their classmates lament, and Lied talks about the plans they've made for going to Walter Park and… Iruma is enamored with the idea. He's never actually gone to enjoy one. He's always worked during the summer.

Fun is still a concept for others, but the idea that he could enjoy something for once brings stars to his eyes.

Lied catches onto Iruma's silent desires, "You wanna go too, Iruma-kun!? Let's go together!"

Iruma's surprised, "Eh!? Can I!?"

Gaap joins in, "Let's have fun together, de gozaru!"

Iruma almost cries out of gratitude. People actually wanna have him around outside of school..? "...Okay!"

The three of them are cheering when Kalego arrives to class. "There's no point in making such plans if you can't pass." Everyone's cheer turns to despair as Kalego continues with a sadistic grin, "Just so you know, the examiner of your tests shall be me."

Lied screams, "Gah! The road to death! YOU DON'T CARE ABOUT OUR YOUTH, DO YOU KALEGO-SENSEI!?"

Jazz makes a frustrated grimace as he sighs, "We won't be able to cheat this time, huh..?"

Iruma blinks, "Eh?"

Jazz turns to him with an explanation, "No one knows how he does it, but he always catches the cheaters on the tests he guards."

Iruma's left amazed for a moment before he senses an odd presence nearby. He shifts, and notices Balam-sensei crouched menacingly behind a corner.

His Pack panics as they scream, "WHAAAA" "What!?" "Scary!" "Balam-sensei?" "Is he here to catch someone for his experiments like the rumors say..?" "WHO'S HE AIMING FOR!?"

Kalego steps forward, causing the Misfits to calm into surprise. "Sensei..?"

Balam-sensei moves out from his crouched position, and meets Kalego halfway as the two fist bump.

Kalego looks up at his partner-friend in quiet confusion, "You look well, Shichirou."

Balam nods, "Hey Kalego-kun."

"You've gotten taller."

"Yeah."

Iruma is shocked. They're… acknowledging each other? Like friends? (Was he mistaken?) Maybe they aren't… together..? No no no, his nose and senses can't be wrong on this, but they're so nonchalant..? "Uhm, do you guys know each other?"

Balam points to himself, "We were classmates, Alumni of Babyls."

Kalego crosses his arms, "We're stuck with each other." He turns to his friend, "But you shouldn't come out of nowhere like that."

Balam rubs his head bashfully, "I guess so, seems like I scared everyone, huh..?"

Lied doesn't know how to keep his thoughts to himself, "Well, we were a little surprised, but… Kalego-sensei…"

Several of the Misfits can't help but think, 'He actually has friends..?'

Kalego can practically hear their thoughts and pointedly grabs Jazz and Lied by the skull to punish them.

Iruma sidles up to Balam with a whisper, "Why'd you come by?"

Balam carefully whispers back, "I was worried someone might've noticed you were a human, but I see you're having trouble with the test?" He points to Iruma while adjusting his mask, "Tell you what. I'll make you a secret weapon."

Iruma doesn't quite understand what Balam-sensei means by that at the time, but later on that day when he's summoned to the History Prep room, he finds out easily enough.

He gains a joy for learning, one specially made picture book, one game, and one personal study session at a time.

xXx-xXx-scholar-xXx-xXx

Kalego at one point almost believed he'd broken his class with homework.

Coming in to them singing some random ass song about nigi-nigi weeds and blood moons had been a bit more than disturbing, but he was still rather impressed by the fact that they were all studying together. Somehow Iruma had managed to pull on his classmate's strengths and get them more interested in their studies.

Their test had gone well, and he was impressed with the overall positive grading.

Kalego would absolutely admit that he was a little sad that no one had failed.

He rather enjoyed the thought of ruining their summer vacation.

Kalego ignores their pleas of allowing them a moment to prepare themselves for their final scores. They fall on his deaf ears because they all, annoyingly, passed.

He's impressed with Iruma's scores the most- not enough to promote him, but he came quite close to it.

He did reward his other students though. They deserved the boost in rank, Allocer especially.

His students are unruly, but he can understand their excitement. He doesn't expect Iruma to just run off, but clearly neither had Asmodeus.

Iruma eventually returns with one of Shichirou's modified Salamander flowers (he knows his partner's peculiarities), and later seeks the gargoyle out once his students separate into two groups to celebrate the end of exams.

Kalego is… not at all prepared for Shichirou's change in hairstyle and grasps onto his shoulder while repressing his laughter with a cough, "H-hold on. Wait, hair-"

Shichirou sighs, "You've always been like this, Kalego."

Kalego pats his chest lightly, "Well, it's good that you've gained more confidence than before. After all, you're one of the most unique teacher's here, rivaling me, a Rank Khet (8). By pouring your Magic throughout the school like water to make sure no one cheats… only you are capable of it. There must be no one who can get around your Buzzer."

Shichirou hums while shifting his mask, "There is one student this time that I can't quite explain what he did at all…" "Hm!?" "...And because of that, living beings are just so interesting…"

"...What in the world are you on about?"

"Hm?"

Kalego doesn't pull his punches, "Just gotta say, that head of yours is frightening in a different way."

"HM?!"

The moment Opera see's Shichirou's new hairstyle, is the moment Shichirou realizes he doesn't quite understand his partners.

Opera's ears are low as they bare their fangs in disquiet, "I don't hate it, but why? I like your long hair, Shichirou!"

Shichirou blinks, "You do?"

Opera huffs, "You need to take better care of it next time it grows out, but-" They pull him down and start ruffling their hands through his short buzzcut, "I don't like facial hair, and it's all prickly!"

Ah. Shichirou chuffs a short laugh as Kalego sighs in long suffering as he grumbles, "He'll start molting soon enough, Opera."

Opera hums and nuzzles Shichirou's face, "Well, do whatever you like. You two didn't like my red hair at first either."

Kalego won't say it out loud, but it wasn't the color that grated his nerves.

It's the stupid bowl-cut layer that slays him.

xXx-xXx-home-xXx-xXx

Kalego knew the home visits with his students were going to be a complete and utter pain in the ass, but it's even worse in practice than in theory.

Of course by the time he gets to the shitty principal's house, he's more than tired and ruffled.

He wants nothing to do with Opera and Sullivan's nonsense.

He has no desire for Opera nor Shichirou to see his summoned form, so having to go to the place where Opera's more sadistic tendencies could come out while bouncing off of Sullivan's brand of chaos doesn't sit well with him.

He is a dignified demon, and looking stupid in front of his students simply isn't an option.

Iruma thankfully is the one to answer the door in the most normal way possible. It's almost refreshing, but Kalego's guard is completely up. "Welcome to my home, Kalego-se..?" Kalego turns Iruma around and lifts him as a shield in front of him. "Eh? Uhm?"

Kalego is frantically glancing around, "Where's that principal? Quickly lead the way before that person comes-!"

Opera was already behind them before he noticed and gives him a nice light shoulder tap in greeting, "Yo, Kalego-kun."

Iruma doesn't consider his teacher to be easily ruffled, but the fact the man flinches hard enough to jostle him is a bit-

"Opera-senpai!"

Iruma's brain freezes while being pulled close to Kalego's chest, still acting as a barrier between the two… partners?

Opera looks pleased with a tiny flush, "Yes, Opera-senpai is here." They loom over Iruma and Kalego mischievously while their tail waves happily, "The one who forced you to buy bread, carry my bags, and made so many fond memories with you in high school was none other than this Opera-senpai!"

Iruma is sweating a bit. He feels embarrassed by this play between these two. They're… they're definitely partners, so why are they acting like this around him..?

Kalego barks, "You shameless person!"

Iruma finally escapes and watches them continue to fight like cats and dogs-

He purses his lips at the realization and nearly snorts.

"You two were seriously Senpai and Kouhai?"

Opera gives him a peace sign (they must've picked that up from him, since everyone tends to do that 'Okay' '666' sign) as they respond, "We're even good friends, anyways, the principal is waiting for us."

Kalego looks like he's struggling to run and Iruma knows that friendship line is bullshit, but maybe they are friends with benefits? He knows they're at least mated, or something. Scents don't get that deep with platonic friendship.

He mentally shrugs and follows along after the two adults.

Things seem relatively normal for about two seconds after settling next to his grandfather, before Sullivan and Opera bounce off of one another while teasing Kalego.

Iruma feels kind of bad for his teacher- he's clearly just trying to do his job and here his family's just messing around.

Iruma now understands Kalego's behavior. There's a fine line between professionalism and personal relations, and the other parties are stomping all over that line.

When Sullivan steals Kalego's observational notebook, Iruma can't help but be impressed by everything he's written just about him. The man is incredible, and he can't help but realize how amazing it is that he has such a caring teacher.

The fact that this is just his notebook, and that he must have one for everyone in class is even more impressive.

Kalego takes the book from Iruma's loose fingers as he gives a gentle warning with words of wisdom.

Iruma's respect and… appreciation? Towards his teacher skyrockets.

He hopes he can live up to Kalego-sensei's expectations.

Kalego turns to leave before Opera protests with a bucket of items, "You're not staying overnight?"

Kalego snaps, "I detest the very idea!"

Opera sets the bucket down and clamps their hands on Iruma's shoulders, "Iruma-sama also wants him to stay over, yes?"

Iruma glances at his butler- he doesn't want to be a part of whatever this play is! "Ah, eh, yes!" WAIT-

Kalego is getting more distressed by the minute, "Hey, you bastard!"

Opera brings them both closer to loom over Kalego, "What "bastard"? You can't speak like that to your Master. Ah, that reminds me…" Opera releases Iruma's shoulders with a flush and a sparkle about them, "The form you take on as a familiar seems rather fluffy, and I like fluffy things, so…" They produce a summoning seal out of nowhere.

Iruma doesn't even have a chance to acknowledge its placement on his hand before Opera lifts his arm up and Kalego's body poofs into his strange bird-like familiar form.

Opera immediately starts to molest the poor summon, as Iruma tries, and fails, to get them to stop. Eventually Opera drags Flufflego over to a bath they'd prepared and cleans up his fur(?), while giving him a thorough massage and brushing while drying him off.

Flufflego is shiny and even floofier than normal, but he's silent in his trembling because, as Iruma has come to understand it…

Being groomed by someone you care about, and having your horns rubbed, feels amazing.

…Unfortunately, the result of the home visits is Kalego giving them double the homework.

Kalego's sadistic glee over their torment is on full display for Iruma's Pack to see and complain about.

xXx-xXx-vacation-xXx-xXx

Iruma's never had the chance to enjoy summer vacation, so he has no idea what to do with his free time.

Then Asmodeus and Clara pop by to visit, dressed in their uniforms, eager to make plans with him.

Iruma and Asmodeus are both surprised when Clara declares she invited everyone from class, and his Pack is there to join in on the planning phase.

Iruma is overwhelmed but happy, and Opera is pleased for him as well. So when the next day comes to go to Walter Park, Sullivan assures Iruma he's gotten ahold of good chaperones for this outing.

He isn't entirely prepared for it, but isn't surprised to see Balam-sensei and Kalego-sensei there.

Iruma had invited Ameri to come as well, since he wanted to see everyone he cared about on such a fun trip. He compliments her clothes, and she's left flustered. "I thought it'd be just the two of us?!" "Eh!?"

Iruma glances over at Opera teasing Kalego-sensei, while his Pack approaches Balam-sensei without fear.

Our Pack.

Iruma flushes at Hermod's words. He supposes it's true. While Allocer wasn't there, he was still with the rest of his Pack outside of school. It was a little surreal, but he knew this would become an unforgettable trip.

…In the most unfortunate way possible.

xXx-xXx-vacation-xXx-xXx

Iruma had a lot of fun with Ronove-senpai until he got lost.

He was surprised that Ali-san came out in a panic, to tell him to run when he nearly got dragged off by a suspicious person. The white-haired onee-sama, Shiida-san, was nice enough to help him and stay by his side.

He even got to experience a ferris wheel for the first time after they'd interacted with the petting zoo's, though it made him strangely ill by the time they came down and he regrouped with everyone.

He didn't get to say goodbye to Shiida-san, but that was alright. She had her job to do, so they continued onwards having fun, and playing with some children.

Seeing Agares's face under the mask was a surprise, since he was actually a bishounen underneath.

It's while Iruma is taking off his dragon costume and Ronove is looking for ways to dress up Agares, that the lazy teen slumps on the floor. "Uhm~? Hm? Hnn..?"

Iruma looks at him puzzled, "What's wrong?"

Agares leans his chin on his hand, placing three buttons on the ground and tapping, "The ground is rumbling, and there are three sources of energy, like eggs about to hatch."

Balam-sensei becomes alert at that, "Three sources of energy..?"

Agares gasps and slams his hand on the ground. Balam reaches for his wards while Agares manages to protect them from falling debris, having changed the area.

Iruma is left speechless as he witnesses the greatness of a demonic beast- a dragon that has appeared.

Slowly everyone gathers to evacuate. The staff are organized in their attempts to keep everyone safe, but Iruma's chest feels tight. He isn't scared, he's just… something deep within him is burning.

He was having so much fun with everyone, and some unknown group of people had to trample on this peaceful day..!

A child cries out for help, and even Balam-sensei is indifferent to their fear.

Aren't children supposed to be important treasures..?

Just because Balam has his hands full with them, does that mean not one single adult will help the children they'd played with earlier?

Were they really being left to die, alone and scared..?

Iruma feels hot as his throat closes up. He's… he's so angry..! Demons and humans were all the same when it came to the suffering of children!

Those tears are his tears- the cries for help are the same as his, and no one wants to bother to look their way..!

Static clings to his skin as he grits his teeth while clutching his chest. He falls to his knees, and although Asmodeus and Balam are concerned for him he just-!

He looks up to them with tears in his eyes, "I'm sick of this."

Hermod howls deep within his bones. The wolf knows of his suffering, his helplessness. This is a foolish venture to place himself in, but the wolf knows.

Iruma is too much like the fabled Baldr- so quick to perish, while Hermod is left to travel into hell to retrieve his brother.

Hermod will get Iruma out of his messes- it was what he was made manifest for.

Iruma rushes past those who would hold him back. Lightning-static travels along his skin as Iruma's innate dodge ability goes into full-drive. He avoids falling debris as he rescues the one child and brings him back to stable ground while the onlookers are amazed by his abilities.

Iruma is ruffled, quite frankly, he is pulling on his unrestricted personality a bit. It is not merely the chaos around him that causes this shift- he is truly pulling on Irumeanie's personality to give him the ability to defy the wishes of those around him.

He has to defy what is expected. He can't abandon these children that he'd just been playing with- not like he was.

He is also so very angry. He was having fun with everyone for the first time. It was nearly magical in his mind, straight out of a fairy tale. He refused to leave those children to die- he'd never be able to live with himself if he let that happen.

Not when he was right there.

"Iruma-sama!"

Iruma turns to Asmodeus and raises a hand, "I had a lot of fun! Everything was so amazing, and I met a special person, and I'll always cherish this moment! But I'm so angry that our amazing day's been ruined, so I refuse to leave these kids be! You all go ahead, I'll take care of the children!"

Asmodeus is stunned before he smirks, "Did you hear that? Iruma-sama's angry!"

Sabnock follows, "And who am I to let my Rival face such dangers alone?"

Agares yawns as he changes the ground around them, "Those kids'll quiet down if we get them, right?"

Balam-sensei hums, "As your chaperone, it only makes sense for me to tag along."

Ronove is unwillingly dragged along.

Iruma smiles as they follow his lead, as the tightness and emotional pain in his chest loosens.

He really has some amazing friends. "Let's go save those kids!"

xXx-xXx-vacation-xXx-xXx

With Agares and Balam's help, Iruma safely rescues the trapped children. Asmodeus and Sabnock went ahead to act as decoys with firm instructions not to attack the beast from Balam.

Of course the two had other plans and went ahead and attacked.

Balam-sensei nearly cried when he realized what the two were up to, while Iruma watched on in worry.

Despite bickering the whole time, Sabnock and Asmodeus do a great job of holding back the carmine dragon. Balam's impressed despite his misgivings and is amazed that they have so much strength as first-year's.

Balam gasps as he grabs Iruma to shield him as the dragon opens their mouth, "Watch out..!"

Balam takes the direct blast of Mana, with only his glove destroyed and a singed arm.

Asmodeus is impressed, but Iruma can see the coming danger and stands up while screaming, 'Azz-kun LOOK OUT!"

Asmodeus realizes what he's screaming a moment too late and prepares himself for a fatal blow, before returning to awareness with Sabnock before him. The fool managed to take the blast with the power of his shield and the strength of his body.

Asmodeus is embarrassed, he's angry with himself for worrying Iruma. He is ashamed to be reprimanded by Sabnock for losing sight of his ambition for a simple present battle.

He uses every last bit of his Mana to create a flame-wall, and the two run to regroup with Iruma and the others.

Asmodeus and Sabnock bicker as they run away from the beast. Honestly, Asmodeus is embarrassed but grateful towards Sabnock for not allowing him to get wrapped up in his pride and for saving him.

The beast locates them and releases another large blast of Mana that is once again blocked off.

Balam-sensei's wings are nothing like Asmodeus has ever witnessed before, and as the teacher removes his mask, he's awe-inspired by his strength. "Good job holding this one off, I'll be taking over from here!"

Asmodeus and Sabnock nod and run off to regroup with Iruma who runs towards them with tears in his eyes. He launches himself into Asmodeus's chest, "You're safe!" Asmodeus has no idea what to do, flustered as he is by Iruma's hold and gratitude. "I'm-! Uaaah I'm so relieved!"

Asmodeus returns his hug, "I'm sorry…"

Iruma pulls back, "No! I should be sorry! I didn't think it through about the danger!" "What are you talking about, I'm the one who got careless!" "No! I dragged you into this!"

Sabnock can't believe they're squabbling, "Eeeyah, so noisy!" He lifts the two up over his shoulders, "Let's get outta Balam-sensei's way!"

They run, but they can't help but be impressed by their chaperone. He is pointedly viscous in his attacks, and takes the beast down in record time.

Iruma is quick to check on Balam-sensei when he returns to their side, his mask put back on. Asmodeus and Sabnock are both impressed as they approach him, "Please teach us!"

Balam is surprised as he turns to Iruma, "I'm being looked up to, huh..?"

There is a flash of light behind them, and after a moment of panic, it is revealed that all three monsters have merged into one at their location.

The combined beast unleashes another wave of Mana, and while Balam-sensei takes the hit, Ameri and Opera have joined on either side of him to assist.

Iruma is surprised, "Opera-san, Ameri-san!"

Opera turns to their ward, "Are you alright?"

Iruma nods, "How'd you find us?"

Opera lifts a finger as they explain, "I followed your scent, your perfume has a unique aroma."

Iruma flushes and sniffs himself. 'Do I smell bad or something..?! What do they mean by "unique"!?'

"That aside… what is that thing?"

"That light a moment ago, it's like all of the Mana gathered together into one spot." Balam fiddles with his mask, "Will you help me out like the past, Opera-senpai?"

The shift as they gear up for another fight, "Of course." They contemplate for a moment, "But with just the two of us… it might be a bit rough." They lift up a summoning seal with a mischievous glint in their eye, "Oh my, what's this? A secret weapon?"

They come closer to Iruma, and Iruma knows exactly what they're up to and feels the apology rising up onto his tongue as the seal is slapped on and his hand is raised.

Flufflego appears and turns on Iruma immediately, "IRUMAAAAA!"

He's latched onto from behind by Opera and Shichirou at the same time, both over-excited to see him in this form as they rapid-fire molest-pet him. "OI!"

"Now then Kalego-kun! Let's combine our powers like the good 'ole days!" Opera's having way too much fun-

Shichirou is sparkling, "We have to take this beast down fluff- Kalego-kun! Fluffy-wuffy!"

"Wh-calm down Shichirou!"

The three bicker while dragging Iruma into it before they line up as Opera states, "The strength of three high ranked demons. It's time to show these kids how it's done."

The three get into formation and tri–one-hit-K.O. the beast.

Kalego is left speechless- Keroberos was a puppy..?!

The group is impressed by the strength of three adults.

However, the beast begins to glow, preparing to unleash a final self-destruct hit.

Kalego instructs Agares to create a hole for them to take shelter in, and Iruma realizes the threat is aimed at the shelter.

Unfortunately, with its accumulated Magic, it's a living bomb and can't be attacked.

Ronove-senpai appears, much to everyone's surprise, and pulls the beast's attention towards himself. Iruma is grateful for his appearance and jumps into the line of fire, "Ali-san, can we take it!?"

"Sure thing partner!" Is Alikured's automatic response before he turns on Iruma, "WAITWAITWAITWAITWAIT! I was just following the flow of the mood, but ARE YOU CRAZY!?"

Iruma is shocked, "I thought because you can take in so much of grandpa's Mana, that you could do it! You can't..?"

Alikured sighs, "I can, but it's gonna take a bit of work on your part. Y'know how I said Magic and imagination go hand-in-hand? You gotta imagine me eating up all of that Mana, got it?"

Iruma nods, and with his ring in Ifrit Mode, he yells out Cherusil and transforms Ali-san into a large cat-like attraction just as the beast lets loose all of its Mana.

Iruma sharply inhales as he feels a rush of Magic enter his veins while Ali-san returns to the ring stuffed. He stumbles back into the collapsed Ronove as he feels over-full, as if he's eaten a ten-course meal in seconds. His strength is gone as his adrenaline rush swiftly fades, "Thank you for the meal!"

Iruma can't move for a moment due to his own actions. He's amazed with himself, that he had the gall to put himself in so much danger.

Hermod is silent, but also over-full.

Everyone rushes to his side, speaking on top of each other as he tries to decipher what they're all saying. He knows he made them worry as Kalego grumbles at him, "Iruma, you've done it again."

Iruma shakily stands up and approaches his teacher, "I remember what you said about putting myself in danger. I understand that now more than ever… it's just… I got too used to being in danger, that I started to take it lightly. However… when the people I cared about were put in danger, I rediscovered my feelings of "fear." I was really scared… I thought, "I might die" as I stood before that beast! I thought that I might fail, and everyone would get hurt! So I thought I'd save everything! This is my… Ambition!"

Kalego doesn't really know what to think of his words. Iruma's hands and voice are shaking despite his convictions. "That's no reason to act recklessly, fool."

Opera observes their ward for a long moment. They allow Kalego to reprimand him, because that's reprimand enough.

They have come to an understanding about this human child. This boy that their Master chose. 'I think I understand now, principal, why it is you chose this boy…'

Iruma is flustered by the parade he's forced to be a part of. The fact his classmates name him as the hero of Walter Park.

It's all so embarrassing! It doesn't help that even though he's physically hungry, he feels so full to the point that he wants to puke. Seriously. How can he feel like he's starving and over-full all at the same time!?

Opera hands him his bag, and Iruma reads the note his grandfather wrote for him.

Iruma smiles at it and sighs. He feels so tired while too full of energy. He wants to run and sleep all at once.

The moment he reunites with his grandfather, he finally breaks down in his arms and cries.

xXx-xXx-glittering-xXx-xXx

Before Sullivan makes it to the hotel, Iruma takes a moment to check in on his Pack.

Kalego and Balam investigate along with the Police, while Opera stays behind to act as their chaperone.

He gets a breakdown of what happened with Jazz's group, and congratulates them on a job well done. He grasps each of their hands and shoves some Mana into them, causing them all to be startled and flustered.

He ignores their reactions and knocks before checking in on the girls. He has to check in with each one, as they all somehow got separated. Clara's over-enthusiastic as she gloms him, and he chuckles as she rubs her cheek against his.

He requests a brush from Clara for Ameri, and he sets the older girl down to brush her hair and massage her horns. Ameri almost dies from embarrassment and being overwhelmed by his actions, but he calms her with easy-going words.

He gently nudges Mana her way, and she takes it with a sense of confusion. She seems to catch on with a flush, and she thanks him for brushing her hair while holding the Magicked brush to her chest.

He pats Elizabetta on the head and holds her hands while sending Mana her way while she talks about her own experience. She's confused by his actions, but she smiles pleasantly when he hugs her and tells her she did a good job helping the children with her bloodline Magic.

Kerori is prickly, and he has to push her into a hidden corner to get her story. She rebuffs his attempts to give her Mana- she knows Asmodeus and Clara forgot about her warning, but he manages it anyway. Kerori huffs up at him, "You know, we'll all get the wrong idea."

Iruma tilts his head, "But I can't eat like this."

Kerori pauses, "Huh?"

Iruma shifts close to her ear to speak, and his ghosting breath unknowingly causes her sensory overload, "I have too much Mana right now, and I can't eat physical food." He pulls back as she gapes up at him. Finally she takes a deep breath and sighs, before grabbing him by the cheeks and pressing her mouth against his. He squeaks, but eventually grasps her shoulders while gently nudging his Mana towards her.

He hopes it's not terrible- he's rather confused about the way he smells around others, and he still hasn't had the chance to clean up from the day. She doesn't seem disgusted with him, and when he pulls back after ten seconds, she glances away from him flustered. "Th-thank you, Iruma-san."

Iruma blinks, "You're welcome."

He stays in place for a moment as he has the passing thought of wondering how his Mana tastes to her, before she lets him go.

Clara latches onto him again, and he chuckles as he makes his way out of the room to check in with his own group. He pauses while they're alone and carefully presses her against the wall. He's physically tired despite how energetic he feels, and he kisses her on the temple and presses his Mana into her with a hug, "Go stay with the other girls. We'll talk later, okay?"

Clara flushes with a nod before smooching his cheek and running off.

Iruma sighs softly before making his way to Sabnock's room.

Sabro's surprised by his appearance, "My Rival, what brings you here?"

Iruma smiles up at him awkwardly, "I was worried about your back, and I have some Mana to spare, so…"

Sabnock blinks, "Shouldn't you keep it for yourself?"

Iruma pushes him towards the bathroom, "I'd appreciate it more if you helped me with my wings really quick- you take care of my back and I'll take care of yours?"

Sabnock snickers as he lets his rival do as he pleases, "Sounds like a fair trade to me!"

They don't spend too long in the bathroom- Iruma keeps his current shirt on as he releases his wings for Sabnock to clean. Iruma takes time to carefully wash Sabnock's back and rub healing ointment on his Mana burns, and to ensure his wings will regenerate just fine.

He presses his Mana towards him, and Sabnock huffs before taking a generous 'bite' of it.

Iruma pulls his wings in after a good long stretch, and goes off to find Agares and shove some Mana his way. The sleepy teen snaps wide awake at his actions, but Iruma grins at him and bows towards his bed… Master? Cloud thing, "Thank you for all the help today!"

He runs off while Agares watches after him baffled, and Iruma finds Asmodeus freshly cleaned in his room. He almost feels bad for approaching him before cleaning up, but he wants to get rid of as much overstock as he can, "Hey Azz-kun!"

Asmodeus smiles, "Iruma-sama!" He frowns, "You haven't taken a break yet?"

Iruma rubs the back of his head while entering his room, "I wanted to check in with everyone- make sure they were okay."

Asmodeus nods, "I see…" The taller demon observes his friend, and Iruma shuffles awkwardly.

"Uhm, can I… give you some Mana..?"

Asmodeus blinks as he abruptly remembers Kerori's forgotten warning, "Oh, no, I really shouldn't Iruma-sama! You should keep it for yourself!"

Iruma grimaces, and Asmodeus is puzzled. "...Iruma-sama?"

Iruma sighs softly before reaching up towards Asmodeus's face. The boy blinks before bending down and allowing Iruma to cup his cheeks before Iruma's lips are pressed against his. Asmodeus flinches in surprise, but takes in a deep drink of the offered Magic- his reserves were used up earlier, and he can feel Iruma's feelings of worry and gratitude intermixed with his Mana.

Iruma pulls back with a small flush, "S-sorry, it's just, it was a lot of Mana, okay?!"

Asmodeus is still before he laughs lightly, "I see. Thank you for the snack, Iruma-sama."

Iruma nods, checks him over one last time, before pulling back and waving, "See you soon, Azz-kun!" He runs off in a hurry, and Asmodeus is left unsure in the middle of his room.

Iruma tastes of Sakura petals and something terribly sinful, like those adult chocolates his mother sometimes brings home.

xXx-xXx-glittering-xXx-xXx

Everyone is dazzled by the luxurious buffet laid before them. They all excitedly check out the array of foods available to them, and Asmodeus is swift to put a plate together for Iruma.

The shorter boy happily takes it while observing his Pack. They're all so lively, and he's glad to have the chance to eat with them.

He only manages two plates before separating himself from their general vicinity. He contemplates the desserts, but he just isn't able to get himself into it. He's… satisfied for now. He'll probably be hungry again in an hour, but he's full enough at the moment.

Iruma sets down his empty plate and quietly excuses himself to the roof where he can look out into the sparkling night view. The park is being pieced back together, and everyone made it out alive. He's so thankful that everything worked out alright.

His Pack is safe and sound.

He feels Hermod stretch in his bones and flop onto his side in relaxation.

"I-Iruma!"

Iruma shifts to look back at Ameri- she's dressed differently than before. "Ameri-san! That dress…"

She panics an explanation, and Iruma can't help but chuckle at her excuses. She's so cute sometimes. "It suits you!"

Ameri blushes, "Ah.. uhm, thank you."

Iruma looks up to her, "But you have good timing! I have something to tell you!" She moves closer to him as he turns away, "We talked about ideals and ambition before, right? My ideal is to have fun with everyone, after all, but to protect that ideal, there's still something more that I need." Iruma is full of determination as he turns back towards her with a clenched fist, "I will change to achieve my ambition of "protecting my ideals," so please watch me, Ameri-san!"

Ameri is starstruck and amazed by the boy in front of her. " I see…" She gives him a warm smile before turning with a bit of pride, "To save everything, huh? Greedy, aren't you?" She glances his way, "Hey, Iruma… Next time, when it's just the two of us-"

Metal slams against the doorframe as Clara yells out, "Iruma-chi!" "Iruma-sama!" "Ah, Makka-chan is here too!"

Ameri slaps a hand over her eyes. Of course. She would be interrupted while trying to ask Iruma out-

Asmodeus and Clara excitedly talk to Iruma at the same time, and Ameri resigns herself to her luck. Iruma agrees to go with them, but stops before turning to her, "Ah, Ameri-san…"

Ameri sighs, "It's alright, just go…"

Iruma faces her, "Ah, no… If it's alright, let's go somewhere together, just the two of us!"

Ameri turns red, surprised that he read her heart so well and combusts. Asmodeus, Clara, and Iruma stay by her side as she has a mini overload of affection towards the shorter boy, and they all excitedly chatter together.

Iruma, on the way down, takes a moment to kiss Ameri's hand on the way down to the others while giving her a little more Mana. Manages to pull Clara aside and give her a similar kiss as he had with Asmodeus to relieve himself of more of his surplus.

He meets up with everyone downstairs as they huddle around a live television broadcast of the elder Ronove and his grandfather declaring his class, and most importantly, Iruma, the heroes of Walter Park.

Iruma is stunned for a moment before screaming, "WHAT THE HELL DO YOU TWO THINK YOU'RE DOING!?"

He just wants to live in peace, dammit!

xXx-xXx-hiding-xXx-xXx