The crimson sky of the Underworld cast an eerie glow over the towering gates of the Infernal Academy. As the sun dipped below the horizon, shadows danced across the imposing stone facade, cloaking the entrance in a veil of darkness.

Malachi, the youngest son of a powerful demon lord, stood before the gates, his heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. He adjusted the strap of his satchel, feeling the weight of his textbooks and scrolls pressing against his shoulder. Despite his nerves, he couldn't suppress a grin as he gazed up at the towering spires of the academy.

Beside him, Lilith emerged from the shadows, her emerald eyes gleaming with determination. She was the daughter of a fallen angel and a demon, her origins shrouded in mystery. She flashed Malachi a sly smile, her crimson lips curling into a smirk. "Ready to conquer the underworld, darling?" she purred, her voice dripping with honeyed allure.

Malachi chuckled nervously, a flush creeping across his cheeks. "As ready as I'll ever be," he replied, trying to mask his nerves with bravado.

As the gates creaked open with a deafening groan, Azazel stepped forward, his dark cloak billowing in the infernal breeze. He was an orphan, his past haunted by tragedy and loss. His piercing gaze swept over his companions, a hint of uncertainty flickering in his eyes. "Let's not keep the instructors waiting," he muttered, his voice tinged with resignation.

With a nod of agreement, the trio stepped through the gates, their footsteps echoing against the cobblestone courtyard. The air hummed with anticipation as they made their way towards the heart of the academy, passing groups of demon students huddled in whispered conversation.

As they reached the grand hall, Belial swaggered towards them, his grin as wicked as ever. "Looks like the gang's all here," he sneered, his gaze lingering on Azazel with undisguised malice.

Ignoring Belial's taunts, Malachi squared his shoulders, steeling himself for the challenges that lay ahead. With Lilith at his side and Azazel close behind, he ventured further into the depths of the academy, ready to embark on his journey into the dark arts of demonology.