Into the Netherworld || Naberius Kalego x Reader Fanfiction

Chapter 14: Music Festival 2

"Yes, yes," Sullivan placed his hand on his cheek, laughing as he finally released her. "My granddaughter is a teacher. I'm so proud of her."

Hanako reddened at the praise and quickly smoothed out her clothes. "Yes, I am a teacher at Babyls," she said, taking a deep breath and trying to regain her composure. "Thank you for being here, Amduscias-sama."

Amduscias nodded, his stern expression softening slightly. "I am looking forward to witnessing their talents. I have high expectations."

With the pleasantries exchanged, Sullivan guided Amduscias to his seat. Hanako couldn't help but glance back at Kalego, who was standing with his arms crossed, a scowl on his face. There was brief eye contact with each other and Kalego gave a small nod of acknowledgement, his annoyance at being manhandled by Amduscias still evident.

The hall was now filled with an air of anticipation. With everything in place, the festival was ready to begin.

~~~

"With a score of 666, victory in this year's music festival goes to the Misfit Class!!!"

The announcement echoed through the hall, and in an instant, the atmosphere exploded with excitement. The roar of cheers and applause was deafening. Hanako, unable to contain her elation, jumped for joy. She was so proud of them.

They had worked hard, Hanako thought, her eyes misting as she watched the Misfit Class on stage. The students were beaming, their faces alight with triumph and joy, their laughter ringing out like a beautiful symphony. Canons of confetti shot out, showering the hall in a cascade of colourful paper, while the screams and cheers for the Misfits reverberated loudly through the air.

"Opera-san! Iruma's class won!" Hanako exclaimed, her voice trembling with happiness as she grabbed Opera into a hug. Opera's cat ears perked up, and a small smile graced their face as they wrapped their arms around Hanako, steadying her in their embrace.

"Yes, Hanako-sama. Iruma-sama's class won." Opera's tail wagged gently from side to side, a subtle but unmistakable sign of their own joy. Hanako laughed, the sound filled with pure, unfiltered delight, as they swung from side to side in their hug.

Her eyes softened as they found her brother, Iruma, amidst the joyful chaos on stage. He was being joyfully mobbed by his schoolmates and friends, his face a mixture of shock and happiness. Hanako's heart swelled with pride and love. She remembered those early days, when Iruma had been terrified and reluctant to attend school. She remembered the fear in his eyes, a mirror of her own as they navigated the unfamiliar and often dangerous world of demons.

Now, standing there, she marvelled at the transformation. Iruma had found his place, his confidence, and his friends. The timid boy who once clung to her for reassurance was now a beacon of light and strength, surrounded by peers who admired and supported him.

"Are you crying, Hanako-sama?"

"No!" Hanako buried her face into Opera's shoulder. "I'm not!"

"Are you sure?" Opera patted her back, their voice gentle and teasing.

"I'm just happy for him," Hanako muttered into Opera's shoulder, her voice muffled but filled with emotion.

Opera chuckled softly, their arms tightening around Hanako in a comforting embrace. "It's okay to cry, Hanako-sama. Tears of joy are a beautiful thing."

Hanako sniffled, a small, embarrassed laugh escaping her lips. "Maybe just a little," she admitted, lifting her head to wipe away the tears. "I'm just so proud of him. Of all of them."

All she felt was happiness as she observed the students. As the confetti continued to fall and the cheers continued to ring out, Hanako allowed herself to fully absorb the moment.