Chapter Text
Getting adjusted to these wings seems hard at first. Since I'm not allowed out of the manor grounds. I spent my days figuring out how they work. Remembering how Mom moved her wings made it easier. Over my enclosement I figured out that although I couldn't get the back wings to move when I wanted them to. Although, for some reason I have perfect control over my head wings. Each pair reacts instinctively to my emotions. Figuring that out thanks to Shape pissing me off.
Speaking of that little shit. After telling me the real contract ritual. I enlisted the help of Opera and Grandfather. Turns out, Shape's form is a dragonoid creature; it said its features change with whomever it's bound to. Previously bound to the former King; which makes sense the ring of wrath was created by him. Now bound to me and its new appearance is… uh… let's say not what I was expecting.
Scales resemble dark purple amethyst like mines. But you could barely make out the purple. A tint of white on its claws(feet). The wings are bat-like with fuzzy fur on the inside; It reminds me of the eastern red bat's wings. The skin is a dark violet and the inner bone structure is silver. A serpent tail with spikes going up and all the way to the neck. Two sets of horns, the lower pair being short but sharp and the higher pair being long and curvy. Shape's eyes are the same color as the crystal on the ring. The strangest part is there's a golden crescent mark on its forehead.
(*Twitch* *Flap*)
As of right now, Shape took on a much smaller, chubbier form so it can stay by my side. Not wanting to return inside the ring after finally being freed. We're outside in the front doing wing exercises or at least trying to. Balam suggested this, to help with the lack of control of moving them freely. Which has actually helped. I can now stretch, fold, and move each wing one at a time. Right now I'm working on getting them to at least flap five times in a row. Only got to three last time.
(*Twitch* *Flap*)
Due to these enormous wings I'm now required to wear tops with openings at the back. Since demons don't need such outfits, because their wings just phase in with their clothes. It was extremely hard to find someone to customize clothes like that. Thankfully, Grandfather managed to find a tailor willingly to take the challenge of designing my custom clothes. Perks of being in high status I guess. Unfortunately, it would be a while for the tailor to figure out how to make the clothes.
(*Twitch*)
Luckily, Mom is watching over me even from here. She SOMEHOW sent over clothes with those open windows. Opera was the one who brought it to me when I was still confined to my room. I had to tell them that it was from my mom. I can recognize her magic from anywhere. Mom fancy ouji style so that's the type of clothes she got me. Today I'm wearing a crimson ruffle blouse with black trousers and black button up boots. It's not the full outfit, but I'm not wearing all that.
(*Twitch*)
Glancing over at Shape who was in its own upright position on its stubby limbs copying me. Why is it even doing that? I focused my attention back on Opera. They were tending to the bushes and monitoring me at the same time. Which is fair, I probably would wander off somewhere if bored enough.
I don't feel like continuing the exercises anymore. Even though I have different wing functions then demons. I can still wrap my wings in. Shapeshifting powers coming in handy. In the note Mom sent me with the clothes saying not to until my wings are fully grown and done shedding. Proceeding to lay flat on my back with my wings spread out underneath, unable to fold them in.
…..
I miss Iruma.
I get it. Iruma couldn't come home due to so many demons swarming the manor. I got annoyed with that paparazzi to the point I started to leak out my magic around the complex. Those sensitive to it didn't come back. Of course there's some who just didn't get the memo. Thankfully, the demon border patrol put out a restraining order on the press. Which thankfully made them stop coming.
(Opera)
"Mickale-sama, why have you stopped exercising?"
Looking over at Opera, who is now standing above me. Glaring down with disapproval.
(Mickale)
“Don't have the motivation to continue right now.
I miss Iruma. When's he coming home?”
Opera face changes back into its regular nonchalant expression. Not saying anything and just gestures for me to follow. Weird, normally they say Iruma would be back any day now and to be patient. Me being curious, stood up and followed Opera. Along with Shape getting up and perching on my shoulder as I do.
___
Opera led me inside toward the library. Stepping in I spotted a pile of organized books and files. I'm not going to walk any father in. I'll just knock over the piles with these wings by accident. Strange, Why did they bring me in here?
(Opera)
“Mickale-sama.”
Hearing my name I turn back to Opera. Who unexpectedly dropped books into my arms. I stumble a bit before getting my footing back. Shape getting rocked off, moved to sit on my head. I stared at the books then back at Opera in confusion.
(Mickale)
“What..?”
(Opera)
“Since you don't have the desire to continue your very needed wing exercises.
You can start preparing yourself for the new semester. You're going to be a full-time assistant teacher after all.
Kalego has been kind enough to send you the material you'll need to know.”
(Mickale)
“Wait… I'm going to be a full-time assistant teacher now!”
That means no more going home early. Wait, do that mean I'm required to go back a day before the students.
(Opera)
“Indeed and surprisingly it was Kalego who suggested you be moved to full-time.”
(Mickale)
“Awww!! Reallyyyy!!
I knew Boss secretly adored me under all that grumpiness.”
(Opera)
“Of course, now that you're situated. I can get back to my duties. I'll bring up some refreshments in a bit.”
With that Opera walk out the library, closing the door behind them. After the door closed I made my way to the desk carefully, so I didn't knock over anything. Setting down the books then taking a seat in the chair. I felt Shape get off my head and flew off.
(Mickale)
“And where are you going?”
(Shape)
'I'm just going to find something interesting to read. So don't worry and go on with your research.'
Ugh… I seriously can't stand him. Well as long as he doesn't bother me or cause trouble. I don't care what he does.
(Mickale)
“At least I have something to focus my mind on now. Instead of worrying when Iruma would come home.”
Time to get studying.
Finally, I'm finished with the last book. It feels like my head is about to explode. If it weren't for Opera bringing refreshments I probably would have passed out by now. But seriously do I really need to memorize all this. Either Kalego just wants me to be greatly prepared or he's getting back at me from annoying him all the time. Most likely the latter.
(Shape)
'Hey kid are you finally done because I'm hungry.
Let's go ask that servant for food now.'
Right, I kinda forgot he was still here with me. Surprisingly, he really was quiet so I could focus. I guess if he did it would just slow me down from finishing. Which would be very inconvenient for him.
(Mickale)
“Yeah, yeah no need to nag me. And their name is Opera pest.”
I won't admit to Shape but I'm feeling a bit peckish myself. Getting up from the chair and making the way towards the door. Not bothering to get Shape knowing he'll hitch a ride on me once I pass by him. Reaching for the door knob I felt claws gripping my left shoulder.
Exiting the library I hear chatting downstairs. Making out Opera soft voice, Grandfather's loud tone and the third one. It can't be…. It is!!
IRUMA!! LITTLE BROTHER IS BACK!!
I rush down the hall toward the stairs. Practically, glided down, skipping the stairs entirely. As I reached the bottom I immediately spotted Iruma. Iruma spotted me as well and smiled brightly toward me. Opera and Grandfather move from Iruma's side knowing exactly what I'm about to do.
(Iruma)
“Mickale your-”
Iruma wasn't able to finish speaking as I tackled him to the floor. Enveloping Iruma in a big hug with my wings fluttering, matching my happiness. Getting up from the floor and holding Iruma up in the air. Began twirling around.
(Mickale)
“I miss you so much little brother!!
It was so boring without you here.”
I stopped twirling around and sat Iruma down.
(Iruma)
“I miss you too.
Are you doing better now?”
(Mickale)
“Yep, no more pain for this Nephalem. Plus now that I got wings we can go flying together like I promised back then.”
I stretch my wings out so Iruma can get a better look. His face beams with wonder and reaches out to touch them. Before he did he glanced over at me asking for permission. I nodded and brought the wing he reached for closer. Iruma placed his hands on my feathers and began rubbing them.
(Sullivan)
“Mick-kun, let's allow Iruma to settle in first, yes.”
(Mickale)
“Sure, Grandfather, I'll take him upstairs.”
I flash a smile in Sullivan's direction. Hearing a click of a camera, that'll distract him long enough.
(Mickale)
"Let's go to your room, Iruma. I'll love to hear what you've been up to at Tiny Clary house.”
I folded my wings back in and Iruma paused for a bit. He must have been to endorse with my wings. I'll let him pet them again later.
(Shape)
'Hey! I thought we're going to the kitchen.'
Iruma jumped up in surprise at Shape's voice. Everyone except me looked up to see Shape hovering above us. I low key forgot about him. He must have fallen off when I rushed downstairs. I glanced over at Iruma who was looking at Shape with confusion and fascination.
(Mickale)
“Opera, can you kindly take Shape for some food. He's been annoyed about it for a while.”
Hoping Opera catches my hint and keeps him away. Shape drifted closer down.
(Opera)
“Of course Mickale-sama.”
(Shape)
'But we're supposed to-'
Opera grabbed him out of the air before he could finish speaking and walk off toward the kitchen. Shape tries to get out of their grasp and continues to yell out. Thank Moon, I'm finally free of him for some time.
(Sullivan)
“Well, I'll leave you kids be. I have to prepare for an important meeting.”
Iruma and I waved Grandfather goodbye as he left. We stood there for a bit.
(Iruma)
“So, was that little dragon your familiar Onii-chan?”
(Mickale)
“Mhm… oh yeah… sure.
Anyways!! Let's head to your room now.”
____
I can't believe it! I never thought this day would come!
(Iruma)
“Uh… Mickale are you listening.
What should I bring to the aquarium?”
I went in for a big hug and started crying years of joy.
(Iruma)
“Woah! Mickale what's wrong?”
My little Iruma is going on his first date!!! I'm so excited!! I finally get to put all that stuff I learn to good use. I let go of Iruma and began preparing his bag myself.
(Mickale)
“There's nothing wrong! I'm just so excited for you!
Your very first date! I never imagined this to happen, especially with how close off you were!”
I didn't need to see Iruma to know he had frozen and his face was bright red right now. If the indication of the huh I hear means anything else.
(Iruma)
“D-D-Date!? What are you talking about!?!?
It's not a date!! You're taking this the wrong way!!”
I stopped packing the bag and threw it onto the bed. Turning around to face Iruma and look at him. Iruma gave me an offended expression back
(Iruma)
“Don't look at me like I'm being the weird one here!”
(Mickale)
“Think what you want little brother. But I know a date setting when I see one. Plus she literally asks you to come alone aka only the two of you which equals a date.”
I proceeded to lounge on Iruma's bed while he processed my words. Of course I knew he won't truly get it because no matter what Iruma is still an innocent little thing.
(Iruma)
“You're wrong Mickale.
I promise Ameri we'll go somewhere together. So it's not a date, just two friends hanging out.”
Ah…There it is, the denial and stubbornness. Getting up from Iruma's bed and walking over towards the door. I'm not done teasing him yet, turning back around to face him.
(Mickale)
“Ohhhh… so you're the one who asks her out. Wow, never thought my shy, awkward brother had it in him”
Before Iruma had time to respond I quickly made my way out of his room.
(Iruma)
“Mickale!! You're so mean!!
At least finish helping me!”
Now that end-of-terminus is coming to an end. Grandfather took me and Iruma shopping for supplies and the tailor that was making my clothes, finished with the updated version for my uniform. Thankfully, Grandfather waited until Iruma was finally finished with his homework and with my studying of more work materials Kalego sent over at the last minute.
Also my wings finally finished fully growing. Now I can ‘fold’ them in without issues. The bottom primary feathers are an amethyst shade and the secondary feathers are a razzmic berry shade. The top is completely dark purple shade. An outer bone structure seems to have formed on top of my wings, looking similar to armor. There's also sharp knobs sticking out at the end. The feather pattern and wing anatomy is identical to the great horn owls.
Right now Grandfather, Iruma and I are inside the carriage while Opera is driving. I'm just leaning on the door looking out the window.
(Iruma)
“Wh-Where exactly are we going?”
(Sullivan)
“You're going shopping with your grandpa and big brother for things you two will need for the term.”
But I thought Kalego already gave me what I needed.
(Iruma)
“Shopping?”
(Sullivan)
“Oh, right. Iruma-kun, you'll need a disguise.”
Right. Iruma would still attract attention.
(Iruma)
“Huh?”
(Sullivan)
“Well, you're celebrity, so you're going to stand out”
That's an understatement.
(Sullivan)
“Detection-Warding glasses!”
Grandfather made some enchanted glasses appear and gave them to Iruma to wear.
“Oh, you look so good in glasses!”
I agree. It fits with his baby face.
“Now you won't be recognized, and you won't have the press hounding you
We'll be able to shop in peace.”
(Mickale)
“And if they do I'll beat them up. I have been wanting to relieve some anger toward them.
(Sullivan)
“Now, now Mick-kun, no violence.”
(Mickale)
"I say if. I wasn't going out of my way to hurt them. Just if they come even a foot from Iruma."
I grin toward him innocently.
____
We arrived at Magical Street. So this is the place we'll get stuff from.
(Iruma)
“Wow! There are so many shops here.”
We began walking to our first destination. We were stopped by a group of demons who recognized Grandfather(who wouldn't). They all started praising Iruma then.
(Random)
"Sullivan-sama! Who is the purple-haired young man next to you?"
Oh… me, didn't think anyone would bat an eye. I guess I do kinda stand out in this outfit. Grandfather patted my head
(Sullivan)
"This is Mickale. Iruma’s older brother and my oldest grandson."
I glanced over at him. Did he really just out me like that? Before I could ask him, I was being bombarded with multiple questions. I had to answer a lot with, personally, can't say. It took some time but the crowd subsided. Then we proceeded to our destination, the tailor shop.
Opera and I are helping Iruma pick out and try some outfits while Grandfather grabs my new uniform and some of my custom clothes.
(Clerk)
“Here you go Sullivan-sama. I hope your grandson enjoys them.
Although I would like to see him try on a few just in case. If he doesn't mind.”
(Sullivan)
“I'll ask him.
Oh Mick-kun.”
Mhm…is Grandfather calling for me. Did he get the clothes yet?
(Mickale)
“Yes Grandfather.”
(Sullivan)
“You don't mind wearing a few clothes do you.
We want to make sure they're to your liking.”
As in, try them out. I never really liked that. I guess it's to make sure there is nothing wrong with the new clothes. He says only a few so why not.
(Mickale)
"Okay, I'll give them a try."
____
That was more than just a few clothes. That took far too long in my book. Well at least Iruma was happy watching me switch to different clothes every minute. Iruma got new winter clothes and Grandfather literally brought half the store. We stopped by an ornament shop.
(Clerk)
“Hats and horn ornaments are in right now!”
(Mickale)
“You can put ornaments on your horns?”
I never knew that. Mom normally just decorates my tail. She probably didn't know how to with my horns.
(Iruma)
“That's right Mickale. You do have horns!”
(Opera)
“Do you want one?”
(Mickale)
“Maybe? I never put one on before. I don't even know how to.”
(Sullivan)
“How about this Mick-kun. Pick out an ornament you like and when we get home I'll show you how to put it on.”
I smiled. He'll really do that for me.
(Mickale)
“I really like that.
Thank you.”
I focused back on the ornaments. Mhmm… none I really see speak to me. Then I caught sight of one. A purple cloth litter with stars and a crescent moon hanging down. It looks similar to a dreamcatcher.
…..
It reminds me of mom. pointing to the ornament.
(Mickale)
“I'll take that one please.”
(Sullivan)
“Excellent choice grandson.
Can it be put in a case?”
(Clerk)
“Of course. One minute please.”
(Sullivan)
“Is there a reason you choose that one specifically?”
I stood quiet for a bit. There is no harm in telling him.
(Mickale)
“It reminded me of my Mom…
I miss her.”
I feel Grandfather pull me into a side hug. I look up at him with a confused expression. He just stares at me with a smile.
(Sullivan)
“And I'm sure she misses you too.
A mother never stops missing their child once they leave the nest.”
I chuckled at that. If only he knew she was the one who left first.
(Clerk)
“Here you go!”
____
Our next stop was a book shop. I was looking around for some of the books Kalego wanted me to get. After finding the last one, I heard a commotion going on where Iruma, Opera, and Grandfather were. As I made my way over I stopped by Iruma’s side to check up on him.
(Random 1)
“But I wonder why Sullivan-sama still hasn't become the Demon King.”
Demon King? Me and Iruma both turn our heads in their direction.
(Random 2)
“Yeah, he's a Tet and the top candidate for the next Demon King.”
Top candidate? Tet? Wow, Grandfather really is something eh. I look down at Iruma… hey wait a minute where's the books I was carrying. Either Opera or Grandfather must have taken it when I wasn't paying attention.
(Sullivan)
“Iruma-kun, Mickale-kun.
Come on, we're off to the next shop.”
(Iruma)
“Oh, sure.”
(Mickale)
“K.”
We made a few more stops and when we were finally done. Tried and tucked out, Grandfather and Iruma sat on a bench and Opera stood up holding the cart. Luckily, the bench is big enough that I'm able to lay down behind them.
(Sullivan)
“Whew, what a haul.
Right.”
(Iruma)
“Yeah.
Thanks, Grandpa. We had so much fun!
Right Mickale.”
(Mickale)
“Yeah!
I don't remember the last time I had this much fun shopping.”
I pumped my fist into the air.
(Sullivan)
“Now you both are all set for the new term.”
(Iruma)
"Everything was so new that I didn't know where to look.”
(Mickale)
“Same.”
(Opera)
“I'll go get the carriage.”
(Mickale)
“I'll help!”
I proceeded to stand up and followed behind Opera.
(Sullivan)
Thanks.
I heard Grandfather say from behind.
(Opera)
“Mickale, I think you will be pleased to know I have picked up a little something for Shape.”
(Mickale)
“And what would that be?”
I don't think he really deserves a gift right now. I caught Opera's lips twitching as if he wanted to laugh.
(Opera)
“Oh it's nothing special, just a collar so you can keep track of him.”
I have a feeling that there's more to the collar and wherever it is. It's going to bring me immense joy and satisfaction.
Arriving home, Iruma was acting a bit off. All he told me is that he and Grandfather had a conversation about the Demon King when me and Opera left. I asked Iruma if he could tell me about it. We're meeting up in my room after dinner.
Iruma told me everything. From how to become the Demon King. How he was the netherworld itself. If the king demands it then it will be it. Demons would create and rebuild the netherworld in his vision. The Demon King is the world. Sublime and absolute.
I'm completely shocked. That's totally different from what angels speak about. I figured I knew they were wrong about demons. I never knew why but I just felt angry when those so called better than any other creatures angels talk about them like that.
Iruma fell asleep in my bed. I should move him to his room. Picking Iruma up, Iruma snuggled up against me as I did. Walking out of my room and going towards Iruma's room I couldn't stop thinking about the Demon King or at least the previous one.
The way Mom spoke about the King was very different from the other angels. She spoke like she knew the former King personally but there was a hint of sadness underneath her tone. Just like whenever she spoke about my father.
Reaching Iruma's room I gently tucked him into bed. Kiss him on the forehead goodnight and walk out. I stood outside his door for a while.
(Opera)
“Mickale.”
I jumped a bit. I look over to my left to see Opera standing a few feet away.
(Mickale)
“Oh…Opera it's just you.
Is there something wrong?”
(Opera)
“Everything's fine.
Lord Sullivan wishes to take you out. Please follow me.”
I wasn't able to ask where Opera was already leaving. No choice I follow behind them. As we reach the front door. I spotted Grandfather waiting by the door for us.
(Mickale)
“So where are we going?
I know it's not that late, but why are we going somewhere right now?”
(Sullivan)
“Do you remember the important meeting I told you about?
Well, that involves you coming with me.”
Grandfather and I walk out the door toward the carriage.
(Mickale)
"Where?"
I asked him has we got into the carriage.
(Sullivan)
“To Babel Tower.
To meet two friends of mine.”
Friends of Grandfather. Why do I have to meet them? I feel like I'm in for an existential crisis soon.
____
When we arrive at the Tower. Grandfather guided me to the highest floor and toward a giant door even for me. Grandfather was about to open it but then turned to me.
(Sullivan)
“Wait right here Mickale.
You can come in when I call you okay.”
I nodded and Grandfather went in. I waited there for a few minutes. Hearing some shouting from the inside. After 10 minutes I heard Grandfather call for me. As I walk in I see Grandfather and two new people sitting around a table. The friends he was talking about. I walked up to them and stopped just a the edge of the table.
A light-skinned woman who appears to be in her mid-thirties with light blue long hair with a bandana. She's wearing a white turtleneck with a blue jacket and a belt with a long skirt. A dark-skinned kinda short man who looks to be just as old as Grandfather. He has white hair, black horns curled above the brim, and several piercings. He wears a white hat on top of his head and he got on a pink and black tiger-striped button-up with a loose collar wearing a coat over it.
Both of their expressions change the moment they lay eyes on me. I even heard the lady grasp in surprise or shock.
(Sullivan)
"Mickale.
Meet Lady Levi and Belial."
(Lady Levi)
“You were right, Sullivan.
This child really looks identical to him.”
(Belial)
“A mini copy.”
What are they talking about? Mini copy? Identical to whom? I bow to them.
(Mickale)
“Pleasure to meet you Lady Levi and Sir Belial.
But I would also like to know why I'm here?”
They all look at each other, then back at me.
(Belial)
"We believe we know who your demon parent is."
(Laby Levi)
“To make sure we would like to conduct a parental blood test.”
(Sullivan)
“But only if you're willing. We won't force you to do it if you're not ready.”
What!? How would they know who unless I look exactly like him?
….
Then again Mom did say I look like a mini copy of him just with a few different features.
(Mickale)
“I can do the blood test but I want to know who you guys believe is my father.”
……
(Sullivan)
“Very well….
Mickale, we believe your biological father is Derkila.”
Derkila…
(Lady Levi)
“Our dear companion and King.”
The former King...
(Belial)
“Who's been missing for two decades.”
My Father!?
Everyone stood in silence as I didn't respond right away. Still processing their words that left me baffled.
…..
(Mickale)
What.