“—ok! Rook!”

Slap.

Rook blinked blankly as he realized his face was turned harshly to the side. He raised a hand to touch his face and felt that it was warm due to the harsh slap delivered by—

“Are you finally able to listen to me, Rook?”

He faced forward to see that the beautiful face of Vil Schoenheit was twisted in a look of disapproval. It took only a second before Rook managed to pull on the smile he always used to placate his Dorm Leader.

“Roi du Poison!” Rook sang, a hand on his chest and another extended outward, “Our Beautiful Vil! I apologize! I was so distracted by the way the twilight has coloured our beloved dorm, that I was caught utterly speechless!” Vil tilted his head and scowled at his Vice… former Vice Dorm Leader.

“Oh, please do not lie to me, Rook.” Vil fixed his ceremonial robes idly, as he repositioned the hood on his shoulders. “You were thinking of something… No, someone else.” He narrowed his eyes on the hunter. Rook briefly wondered if he was eyeing the creases in his own ceremonial robes. “Exactly what, however…” He let his sentence hang, suspended in a moment of silence. Beautiful Vil stared at him—and Rook realized that the man would not let this go. Would no longer let this go. At that realization, Rook’s hands fell to his sides and his shoulders slumped.

“I did not think you would notice a thing, Roi du Poison.” He admitted rather lamely. His eyes flickered off again, in the direction of a certain dorm…

“Do not insult me Rook. Of course, I would notice. I have known you for so long…” Vil sighed before he snapped. “Now out with it, what exactly is your problem?”

“Well…”

When it had been time for Rook to choose his internship, he had done so in his typical fashion—an eager single mindedness for the sake of something he considered beautiful. His internship would take him to faraway places—so much so that it would become difficult for him to keep in contact with his family and his peers. He had known (thought) that it wouldn’t matter too much for him. While Rook could enjoy being in a crowd—he was more of a solitary creature.

After all, the hunt is best done alone.

And it was fine in the beginning. He was able to throw himself into his internship with all his love and his energy. His supervisors were winded but amazed at his devotion to learning everything he could from them.

“Because what you do here is beautiful and there is nothing, I love more than seeing beauty—in all its shapes, sizes… forms—! How could I call myself la chasseur d’amour if I do not chase after that which I love~?” He had explained to them, and they had shaken their heads in bemusement over him. Then they shrugged—at least he was enthusiastic.

He did not know what had caused it. But in the middle of exploring a forest, there at the edges of the Land of Pyroxene—he is hit with the sudden thought of you.

It causes him to stumble on his step, for his inhale to be a little sharper—and a hand coming up to cover his mouth as he coughed in surprise. There is a knot in his chest that makes him think of the way you would look at him if you were with him at that moment. You would probably be nervous—uncertain about the situation you were in but…

You would take his hand. And he would assure you that all would be well.

He blinked, dazed. The image of you standing before him faded away as all distractions do.

When he wondered to himself why he remembered you—he had thought that perhaps it was because you were one of his fascinations; and Rook Hunt was a man controlled by his need to understand everything that drew his interests.

But why then? At that time?

He had taken his internship to satisfy his fascinations for so many other things and you—

You and your allure were currently a thousand miles away.

There should be no reason for you to continue to dwell in his thoughts… for he had already learned everything about you.

When something (or someone) drew his interest, he would consume all the knowledge he could from observing them. When that was finished—

His eyes would simply fall onto another prey.

You were his last fascination back at Night Raven College—just before his internship began.

So why then did he look back now? So why then is he remembering all the ways you looked at him? In the beginning—your eyes were filled with confusion. There was a time you regarded him with wariness. Then there came a time you peered at him with acceptance… with amusement. With admiration and even with fondness.

You had looked at him with worry in your eyes as well. So many things were left unspoken as he went away for his trip.

‘Perhaps it is that.’ He had concluded at that time. ‘Perhaps my research on you isn’t quite finished yet.’ He attempted to dismiss it as such. Often, he’ll suddenly remember a person who he had once given his attention to. Often it would just be him attempting to see if they had changed in any way and… Perhaps it was the same with you. He nodded to himself. Now that he has figured that out—you would likely stop interrupting his thoughts… It would let him focus on the hunt once more.

At least that is what he told himself but—

The moment he remembered you—you would no longer leave him alone.

Sometimes he would see you at the edge of his vision, standing there with gentle acceptance on the quirk of your lips. Sometimes he would feel your hand in his as he began to smell the homely scent of Ramshackle after a long day of schoolwork. There were the times he had mistaken the song of a bird for the way you would call out to him; and then the times when his thoughts wander to the taste of sunshine on the bright days you two would share.

Something in him began to hunger. To see you, as you are—without you fading away like a daydream. To really feel the press of your hand against his own, to be enveloped in the scent of Ramshackle—one he so strongly associated with your own. To hear your voice, speak his name again—and for the taste of days spent with you.

Suddenly the internship he did not want to end—could not end any faster.

And yet once he had gone back to Night Raven College—restless with the need to soak in your presence—not even a thought to if you would want to see him only to realize that you—

You were avoiding him.

Rook Hunt was not a person easily hurt. He had the tendency to be blunt and his desire for knowledge has let him step on several people’s toes. He was used to being avoided—in fact, it was a thing that brought him excitement.

It was a part of the hunt.

And yet—yet with you—

To know you were avoiding him made him… feel. Something. He cannot quite pinpoint what it is. It surely did not feel like fascination anymore—

There was nothing more important to him than which draws his fascinations—so what have you become then? What lies beyond his whimsical interest in you?

“You’re a bigger fool than I thought you were, Rook.” His Queen’s voice made him crash down to reality. He blinked in surprise—his lips fell into a perfect o as he studied Vil’s irate expression. Ah, had he spoken without thinking?

“Are fools not entertaining to you, my Queen?”

“Perhaps I found it amusing once... however, for someone who calls himself la chasseur d’amour…” The syllables of the foreign language drip off Vil’s tongue like honey. His Queen’s lips curled into a saccharine smile. “You don’t know the first thing about love, do you?” Rook blinked startled—

“Love?” He echoed, winded.

“Love.” Vil peered at him, there was something smug in the curl of His Queen’s lips—but he was unable to examine it further because Vil gestured at him to face forward. With him being as distracted as he was—he had failed to realize that they had arrived at the Pomefiore Lounge.

And standing by one of the great windows was Monsieur Cherry Apple… and you.

“Senior Vil, Senior Rook.” Epel greeted, a sweet smile on his face. “Senior Vil, as you requested.” Epel then waved towards you. You, who had been carefully avoiding his gaze by fixing your own, to the ground.

“Congratulations on your graduation!” Your voice faltered before you went quiet. Rook peered at you—the beginning of a frown tilted the corner of his lips. He could see the sweat drip from your forehead, the way your fingers and feet fidgeted… As someone who spent so much time observing people, he knew you wanted to run.

But why…?

(“Come Epel. Leave them be. There are things I need to discuss with you…” Epel looked at the two of you—quietly standing across each other. He had never seen Rook so quiet before—and this was unlike every other time that the older man was hunting. And then there was you… Queen, you worried them all… ‘But if there’s anyone who could cheer you up…’ he bumped his shoulder roughly against Rook. Enough to pull the older man out of his thoughts to meet his junior’s eyes.

‘Take care of my friend.’ Epel’s eyes narrowed, before he followed Vil.)

Confusion mixed with amusement bubbled up within Rook… How beaute! For the boy—nay, the man to challenge Rook like that… It could almost make him weep from the beauty of your friendship! ‘If Monsieur Cherry Apple challenged me like that… then it is only right that I face his challenge head on—!’ He dragged his eyes back down to your fidgeting form.

“Mon Monarque… It is a pleasure to finally speak with you.” You flinched at his words. “I feel as if you were avoiding me these past few days.”

“I wasn’t—!” you looked up—eyes glassy with unshed worries—but Rook’s knowing gaze made you falter. “… No, you’re right… I’m sorry. I’ve been very unfair, haven’t I?” you smiled weakly.

“As we all are, Mon Monarque.” This time you finally meet his gaze with those wet eyes of yours. “I believe I have been quite unfair with you as well. There were things you must’ve expected me to say back then…” He raised his hand, and happy that you were not flinching away, laid it on your cheek. “How you’ve tested me these past few days, mon amour!”

“Normally,” he began. “One such as I enjoy the thrill of the chase. You would not be the first to run from me… but…” he stroked your cheek with his thumb. “Once it was you who was running from la chasseur d’amour… once it was you, who began to avoid me…” his lips curled downward again—in memory of the past week… “It did not excite me, mon amour—instead… it filled me with dread.” At his words, your eyes burned, and your lower lip trembled.

“Sorry… I’m sorry.” Your voice is faint. “Please… let me explain.” And you do. You tell him what the headmaster had told you—about how you could go home now. You tell him about your conflicted feelings—about wanting a reason to stay but thinking about your family. All the while, he stroked your cheek in encouragement.

Beyond your shoulder, through the large windows—Rook could see the way the sun finally, completely dipped past the horizon. The light framed you completely, it made you look like some heavenly beauty who descended upon the earth. It was your mercy that allowed you to appear before him like this. In the brevity of the light illuminating him—You dazzle him—you blind him.

You made him breathless.

In this moment… he could lose you, couldn’t he?

Ba dump.

His eyes widened as the beat of his heart went unsteady at that realization.

Ba dump dump.

In that moment he realized that your time together could end. Yet, framed by the light—you were so beautiful.

‘When something ends, it must be sad. So, tell me then, how an ending could be so beautiful?’

He found himself lacing your fingers together before falling to one knee before you. You faltered in your words as he tightened his hold on your hands. Ah—so, this is why he couldn’t stop thinking about you. So, this is what Vil meant—when he called him a fool.

‘But there was one ending that was beautiful, non?’

“Rook…?”

“Mon monarque… Please forgive me for leaving you so. Perhaps I have no right to ask you for this but… would you please let me stay with you from now on?” He whispered as he peppered kisses against your palms.

“Rook—!?”

“…Mon amour, I feel faint at the thought of living in a world where you no longer exist.”

“Rook… you’re saying that you…” your eyes became even more glassy. He reaches down to his outfit and with a quick snap—removes the button closest to his heart—and pressed it into your hands.

“Tell me your answer, mon amour. I will accept it but… know…. I do not call myself la chasseur d’amour lightly. For the prize I am hunting now, is your heart.” You blink, and the glassy look in your eyes—shattered as tears slipped down your cheeks. “I will not give it up.”

‘That’s right. ‘They lived happily ever after’—are those not the words that define a beautiful ending?’

—

Nothing lasts forever.

Lilia Vanrouge was definitely the last person to think that.

But being aware of that doesn’t make it any easier for him. Perhaps it makes it worse. Lilia is used to losing people. They have either died too young or he has lived for too long. And when you’re his age you can’t help but begin to brace yourself for the inevitable—for the time you lose people as if they were dying like flies.

So when you waltz into his life here at Night Raven College—Lilia had an idea about how you might just ruin him.

It’s the curiosity that sparkled in your eyes. It’s the lilt in your voice that he cannot place anywhere in Twisted Wonderland.

You did not belong to this world.

But it was also for that same reason that Lilia was drawn to you.

Perhaps he had multiple interests throughout his centuries of loneliness… but you were the first bright spark in a millennia.

Your light was different from the way Malleus… Silver and Sebek shined for him. They were family. They were a constant source of light in the darkest of days. And—he would have them for longer. He would be with Malleus for centuries—he would have Silver and Sebek for their lifetimes.

But you—your light was akin to a shooting star. If he so much as blinked—if he took his eyes off you—if he looked at you a second too late—

He would instantly lose your light.

And shooting stars do not leave anything behind.

There would be no way to follow after you once you’ve gone.

That is why, while you still glimmered in this world of Twisted Wonderland—

He would relish in the way—

You made the world pause.

You made a moment extend into an eternity.

You made an immortal crave just a little more time.

But he would also brace himself—

Because the world will continue to spin.

Because a moment will always fade away.

Because there is never enough time.

So when you came to him (right before his graduation too—robes of black ink and spun gold spread around him on the couch), your eyes wet with your worries while your lips spilled the damning words of the Headmaster—he knew.

“In my generosity, I have found a way to bring you back home…”

He knew that the moments he spent with you had ultimately concluded.

He could already see it—the world dimmed as your bright light shot off into the distance. Ready to burn brilliantly for another world… while he must drift into an eternity with your glow haunting him beyond his closed lids.

‘Nothing lasts forever,’ Lilia thought—wistfully. ‘All things will come to an end.’

He knew what you came here for.

You wanted a reason to stay.

But this was something Lilia can not—no—will not give you.

“—And it’s insane, Lilia. I can’t believe—he just—I don’t know what to do—I—what do I do—?” Finally your eyes fall on him and instinctively your heart sunk. You didn’t know why but… perhaps it’s because you knew him so well by now and…

He gazed at you; expression surprisingly solemn and empty. It scared you. Lilia has never looked at you like this before—to your knowledge, you’ve never seen him wear such a grave expression on his face.

“Child.” You flinched immediately, eyes wide—and beginning to sting already. You tensed in your seat and the fairy in front of you sighed deeply. “Child, this is something I cannot give you an answer to.”

“W—what?” You sputtered, your eyes began to water. “But—”

Lilia—sweet, all-knowing—brilliant Lilia. He, who you always felt,had the answers in this world. He, who you felt safest with… Who was always able to explain things to you—

For once he had nothing to say?

“But nothing.” He said—voice light, gentle—almost as if scared that if he spoke with any more force you would shatter before him.

Who were you kidding?

You’ve already begun to shatter.

“My dear one, this is not my choice to make.” He insisted lightly, red eyes gleamed in the dim light of Diasomnia’s lounge area. “It is your own.”

Lilia’s brows furrowed as he watched your expression shift—from sadness, to confusion, pain—and… He did his best to stiffen himself and not attempt to gather you in his arms. To give you all the reasons to stay—

“It is not my choice to make… but I can give you advice.”

“Then give it. Please.” Your voice faltered in that way he knew that the tears were coming. He did his best not to be swayed. Not when such an important decision is laid before you…

“I believe you should go home.” He answered, and your head snapped upright. Shock coloured your whole face.

“Lilia—you—why would you—” you began to cry but he held up a hand.

“My dear, I have lived a long life full of loss.” He paused, “I will continue to live with loss at my side but you…” he raised his hand, leant forward to cup your cheek—and wiped away a tear right before it fell down the curve of your face. “You have not lived that life, child. Not yet. It is not something I would wish on anyone.” ‘Most especially you.’ He thought fiercely.

“You have a chance to find family again. That is good. I believe you should do it. Go home and reunite with them. It is not yet too late for you.” He murmured—this time tears began to fully stream out of your eyes.

“But Lilia—” you choked out through the tears. “But Lilia, I love you.” Your shoulders slackened as if you had finally let go of a burden, but you curled into yourself protectively. Terrified of the words that he might say now.

Lilia’s smile is sad—but even worse—is how knowing it was.

He knew.

He had known.

All along.

“A passing fancy, I’m sure.” He murmured as he pulled away and everything in you cried out in agony as the fairy lets you slip from his fingers. “Love like this will not last.”

Or at least it won’t last for a mortal like you. It was in your nature—he has seen countless immortal fairies let go of their human lovers. He himself had done the same throughout the centuries… The mortals—they all felt pain and they all felt anger—but ultimately they all moved on. It was the one thing he found that he envied in mortals. For them, life was too short to hold onto those who have chosen to leave them—but for immortals… Immortals always lingered. It was their nature to hold onto what they have let slip past them.

He was not an exception.

Never let it be said that he did not mourn each and every what if.

His love for you will last—until whatever end might meet him.

You will be the one he holds onto until nothing left of him remains—

However this was a type of love he won’t expect from you. It was a type of love he would not curse you with.

“Move on, my dear.” His words chased you out of the Diasomnia Dorm. “… as all mortals do.” He said, softly—this time to himself. He looked down at his small, ungloved hands.

His flesh was smooth, supple. His skin was not thin, his bones or veins not protruding. Immortal. Unchanged.

It was the best choice for you.

‘Let me be the lonely one. Let me be the one to miss you, while I become a faded memory. Let me be the one to remember the way we loved one another. Let me linger, while you experience all of what life has to offer.’

Lilia’s head snapped up as he heard a noise. (A little hope that, maybe, you won’t listen to this old man. Who might have grown in years but never truly outgrew his foolishness—) His eyes caught sight of Malleus—whose own gaze was fixated on the door.

“For once, perhaps I should’ve let myself remain uninvited.” Malleus said dryly. His eyes moved from the door… to Lilia. For a moment Lilia worried that the boy might smite him for making you, his beloved friend, cry. “In all the time I spent in your care…” Malleus spoke softly, “I have never seen you look so small, Lilia.”

Lilia inhaled and straightened himself. His lips trembled as he pulled it into a smile—but it snapped right back into a downward curve. There is no point in trying to hide it from Malleus—no point in attempting to tell him that he wasn’t hurt. For Malleus was just like him.

Someone who will linger in the great eternity, missing someone who will never return.

“I see.” Malleus paused, “… It will never get any easier… will it?”

“Losing someone is always hard. Regardless of the centuries one has lived.” Malleus raised his head again, eyes distant at Lilia’s words.

“Why do we still interact with mortals, then? Is it worth all this pain?”

“… Yes.”

Malleus turned sharply back to Lilia.

“Because even if there is pain… There is great happiness.” Lilia whispered softly as his eyes moved to the door—as if willing you to return even when he was the one to tell you to go. “Because even if we lose them… we will have eternity to remember them… treasure them… love them.” He chuckled gently. “Isn’t that a beautiful way to live forever? In the loving dreams of someone who will remember you.”

“You love greatly, deeply.” Malleus’s brows furrowed, “but why then—did you chase them away?”

“It is the nature of immortals to hold on, to linger. To remember.” Lilia said simply, his head tilted back to look at the ceiling. But his gaze was far away—perhaps fixed onto the sky, remembering all the stars that have slipped past him into the distance. Never to be seen again, but their brilliance and beauty to be remembered. Always to be remembered. “But mortals… the brevity of their lives will make them move on. They have to—they should move on. They can learn to love ano—”

SLAM.

Lilia flinched as his head jerked upright to look at Malleus. The heir’s expression was dark—stormy.

“I did not think I would ever have to teach you anything, Lilia.” Malleus said, disappointment crackled in his eyes.

“Teach me..?”

“Who are you to judge whether my friend should or should not love you?” The prince murmured, “Who are you to say that their love will fade away…? No… that is only something they should decide.”

Lilia blinked in surprise as Malleus turned away and moved towards the door to Diasomnia’s dorm. “Malleus—what are you—?”

“Do not dare to think about their affection… their love for you lightly.” Malleus continued to walk toward the door. He paused as his hand landed on the door knob. He turned to glance at Lilia from the corner of his eye.

“I will not let you underestimate the depth of my friend’s love.” He had said with so much certainty. As if telling Lilia that your return was as certain as night falling, as if your love was as steadfast as the stars above. With a smile, Malleus turned back to the doors and pushed it open to reveal—

You.

Lilia sat, frozen as you glared at him with wet eyes. When you blinked the glassy sheen in your eyes would fragment and slip down your cheeks. Your lips were twisted downwards in displeasure, and your hands were curled on your side. You don’t look at Malleus—but you whisper a thank you to him. You had stopped right outside the door, you had cried—but when you heard Malleus speak you quieted to listen. You can only guess that Malleus probably cloaked you in his magic to hide you from the older fae. Lilia turned to Malleus for a moment. Malleus inclined his head, a tiny smug smirk curled on his painted lips.

‘You have my blessing.’ Malleus seemed to say. Lilia wasn’t sure exactly what he meant by it but he didn't dwell on it because Malleus shimmered out of existence. This made his attention return to you.

You walked towards him—almost stomping. Perhaps any other time he would think of that as adorable—but for right now, he knew he should take this seriously.

Take your feelings more seriously.

“My d—mhm!” In a move he never expected from you, you bend down and kiss him. Your eyes shut tight, the tears slipped from your lashes and dropped down onto his cheeks. Your fingers curled in the silky material of the robe as you insistently pulled him closer to you. Just as he’s about to do something—take you into his arms, maybe—or kiss you back—you pulled away.

“I love you Lilia.” You professed. Yes, you weren’t sure about what you were going to do—where you were going to go even. But one thing you were sure of, is that you do love Lilia. And that if he reciprocated even a little— “I want your heart.” Your fingers curled tightly into his shirt, the button closest to his heart in the center of your palm—and it dug into your skin.

“I don’t need to meet anyone else. I don’t want to meet anyone else..! I just want you. In my life. For the rest of my life.” Your cheeks flushed at your confession but there was no going back now—you could only hope that the price of your honesty was his own.

“I don’t want you to lose anyone if you stay by my side.” His voice is shaky now. Unlike the self-assured Lilia you had always known.

“Then we’ll just have to figure out how to travel between worlds… or communicate—I don’t know.” You cried out. Between the two of you, it had always been Lilia with the answers. “Just don’t—make me choose one or the other… Let me choose both. If you don’t want me to lose anyone—then help me talk to them—but not at the cost of losing you! I want to spend all my time with you—!” Your voice pitched as Lilia dragged you down into his lap, fingers curled around the hand on his heart.

“… I’ve always thought I would be satisfied with just a little more time.” He murmured, breath brushed against the slope of your neck. “… but you want to spend all of it on this old man… are you sure…?”

“There’s no one else.”

“An immortal’s love is nothing compared to the one shared between humans.”

“Immortal or mortal—what matters is that it’s you and me.” You said stubbornly and he couldn’t help but chuckle. Malleus was right… there were still so many things he could learn from you… Learn to love about you.

And to a man who thought there was never enough time—ultimately, who was he to refuse?

Immortal or mortal, the undeniable truth was that Lilia was still just a man who wanted to love you without regrets. Without thinking of you as a what if.

“… When I’m promised something so dazzling, how can I refuse?” He pulled away and he gave you a sweet smile—red eyes glimmered with so much love. “If this is the love you’ve chosen to bestow upon me, then it is only right that I return it in full.” His face drew closer, his exhale wafted across your face.

“You have my heart then, my dear. You’ve had it since you first dazzled me. And I’m sure you will continue to do so… for the centuries to come.”

“Nothing, Dorm Leader!” the two immediately squeaked out, and Riddle sighed—exasperated, but continued to eye them suspiciously. As a fourth year, Riddle had no need to visit campus as often as he did. Ace was already made the Dorm Leader, and Deuce was his Vice Dorm Leader once the two had entered their third years but—

‘I know Trey told me not to worry…’

-

Cater and Trey had long since graduated from Night Raven College—but the former was still ever so interested in what his friends were doing. He had easily convinced Trey and Riddle to go on call that night to catch up. It was during that call that Riddle had confessed his fears about leaving the fate of Heartslabyul to Ace and Deuce.

“Wow~ Riddle is much more of a mother hen compared to Trey~” Cater had laughed, delighted. Riddle had instantly puffed his cheeks, ready to defend himself. Trey—sensing the argument that was about to come—quickly placated him.

“I don’t think it’s wrong of you to care so much, Riddle.” Trey had said, in his same soothing tone. “You’ve held onto the dorm leadership for three straight years… it’s natural that you worry about how Heartslabyul will do… but… I believe—the dorm will be what our juniors make of it.” 

“That’s my worry.” Riddle grumbled in response.

“Well—the two of them did shadow you as Vice-Dorm Leaders during my fourth year, yes?”  

“…Yes.”

“I think they know what they can and cannot do by now.” Trey consoled, “Have a little bit more faith in them—after all, you were the one who entrusted the Dorm’s future to them in the first place.”

“I suppose…”

“If all else fails,” Cater chimed in, “[Name] will be there, won’t she?”

“I’d like it if I didn’t have to rely on her for the two of them but…” Riddle unconsciously smiled at the thought of you. “but yeah… she… she certainly had a hand in how Heartslabyul changed to be the way it is today...”

“Ah~ I’m a little jealous you still have an excuse to see [Name]~” Cater hummed. 

“I—” Riddle felt his cheeks flush at that, “It’s not like that!”

“Huh~? I didn’t say anything though~” Cater cackled knowingly. Riddle tensed, and Trey only sighed in amusement as the red head began to lecture the older man.  

-

Despite Trey’s (and admittedly, Cater’s weaker) attempts at getting him to be more hands off—he continued to conduct surprise visits to the campus. Primarily to keep a check on both Ace, Deuce and how they were currently running his beloved dorm. He knew it almost always made the two panic, but he just wanted to ensure that—they were doing fine. Riddle worried endlessly— 

-

“I don’t think it’s as surprising as you think.” You had told him once, a giggle on your lips. “Riddle… despite everything… you still genuinely want the best out of people. It’s the way you are.” He had flushed red when you put it that way, but he was incredibly appreciative of the fact that you noticed. He was also happy that you didn’t think it as something he should change immediately. 

“Ace and Deuce—I can see why you worry but…” you had patted his hands gently, and shot him the same sweet grin you had given him that time—about two years ago—after his embarrassing Overblot. “You’re also improving yourself. Take it step by step—little by little, and I’m sure one day you won’t think twice about whether or not those two can do justice to the Heartslabyul in your vision.” 

-

Seeing you as often as he did was just a bonus—or so he’d like to think. He hasn’t quite admitted to himself, how incredibly fond he has grown of your presence, and how much some of his visits was more to see you again—rather than visiting his juniors.

He could feel the way his lips unconsciously curled up just at the thought of you. He quickly turned away from his juniors—if only because he could not stop smiling. 

“Come to think of it…” he mused, pretending that this was just a thought that came to mind—and not something he’d been eagerly looking forward to— “Where is [Name]?” When there was no response, he felt his smile drop and his brow twitched at their silence. 

“Come now—if there’s anytime you’re going to be quiet…” he turned to look at them, only to realize that they had incredibly guilty expressions. “… Is something wrong? Is she hurt?”

“Well—no.” Deuce rapidly stuttered out, “It’s just—well—” he glanced hopelessly at Ace, whose eyes shifted around in an uncomfortable manner. 

“Err—it’s a little hard to explain…”

“What is going on?” He demanded, his expression growing dark as he thought back to the last time, he had seen you. There didn’t seem to be anything wrong with you—you had greeted him as kindly as you normally had. You had looked healthy to him and nothing had seemed to be weighing too much on your mind… “Tell me right now.”

-

“Thank you, for coming with me.” You had smiled, “but you can leave me here, really.”

“Do you even know why Crowley called you?” Ace asked, his hands crossed behind his head when he noticed the most subtle shift in your expression.

“[Name]?” he arched a brow, and you shook your head, a smile bloomed on your face at his concern.

“No, it’s… it should be nothing.” You looked down at Grim. “You’ll stay with them, right?”

“Yeah, I know.” The monster scowled. “I don’t know why Crowley wanted just you… It’s not like you won’t tell us after…”

“That’s true.” Deuce had agreed easily.

“I will tell you if it’s important.” Ace’s eyes narrowed at the way you phrased your sentence, and when you slipped into the office—it was only Ace who stayed, his gaze fixated on the door.

“Is something up Ace?” Deuce turned to see that the Heartslabyul Dorm Leader hadn’t moved from his position by the door.

“I think she’s not telling us something.” Ace said, before he approached the door and pressed his ear against it.

“Ace! That’s rude!” Deuce moved to pull him away, but Ace shook him off.

“Sssh! I can’t hear!” he hissed at Deuce before he leaned harder against the door.

“—I have found a way to bring you back home—” Ace and Grim immediately stiffened. Deuce looked on, wary of their reactions.

“What…” he swallowed, “what did you overhear?” 

-

“She still hasn’t said anything.” Ace said after he told a frozen Riddle the story. “and… well… none of us have the heart to bring it up.” 

“Well Grim certainly wanted to.” Deuce interjected. “But we figured… it was probably something we should wait for her to say… are you okay, Dorm Leader?”

“You don’t need to call me that.” Riddle replied immediately, before he exhaled. He raised his hand and pressed it against his forehead as he thought of the situation.

‘Of course, …of course, I should’ve thought of it.’ His hand fisted in his hair, as his brows furrowed. ‘This isn’t home to her this is… it’s the farthest thing from a home.’ He felt the blood drain from his face, and the minute shake of his hand at the realization.

-

Riddle made the two promise to not speak to you about it—and that he’d try to bring it up instead. Deuce looked like he wanted to protest. Riddle could understand—the three of you had a certain type of friendship that should mean that Ace and Deuce had a right to bring it up with you but… Ace had always been much more perspective than he actually let on, and agreed to let Riddle handle it.

Whether Ace understood the depth of Riddle’s feelings or not, was currently inconsequential given the circumstance. What Riddle needed to focus on—was speaking to you about the… issue.

No, it’s wrong to call it an issue—and neither is it a problem… It’s just… perhaps best called a big decision. One that Riddle knew your likely answer to, and how it’s not the answer he would want to hear.

In his defence, ever since coming back, Riddle did try to talk to you about it. He tried very hard to confront you—but whenever he’d try to tell you—he’d take one look at your smiling expression and think about how much he’d like this moment to last longer. ‘Just a little longer… Let me have their smile a little longer—’ because he knew that the moment, he brought it up—you might no longer smile at him.

Unfortunately, time is nobody’s friend—and during a break from his graduation practice, he ran into you.

“Oh, [Name].” he blinked in surprise before his eyes narrowed when he noticed that you weren’t smiling as usual. “Did something happen?” he asked, immediately anxious for you.

“Ah it’s…” you paused, and your expression grew even more distressed. “I don’t… know how to phrase it.” He grew cold at that—he had a general idea on where this conversation could head… Before he could get a word in, the doors to the Hall of Mirrors opened, and a bunch of other fourth years exited noisily.

“Do you want to talk somewhere else about this?” The slightest furrow in his brow, and the tiny down-turn curve of his lips expressed his concern for you. Your heart did a little leap, and you briefly got lost in his pretty grey eyes before you slowly nodded.

-

Your voice was soft as you explained the turmoil you’d been going through the past few days. 

“I… want to stay. I want to stay so badly that I keep coming up with excuses to do so but… at the same time… I know that this means I’ll be abandoning my family… my old life behind and…” you looked down at your hands, and Riddle’s frown only grew as your voice got shaky. “that’s unfair to them—isn’t it? That—I’ll just up… and leave… and say nothing.”

“If you want to stay, then just stay.” You didn’t look to be convinced, and Riddle felt his heart twist that he isn’t enough of a reason for you to stay.

“It sounds so easy, doesn’t it?” you chuckled, your tone low, “maybe my life here is certainly far better than anything else I could dream of but… the guilt will eat me alive. That I just turned away from them… It’s so selfish of me.”

“I don’t think it’s wrong for you to be selfish.” Riddle disagreed as he reached out towards you and held your hands. At the action, your eyes fell to your twined fingers, and you observed the gentle way in which Riddle rubbed the back of your hand. “I think you earned that much. I don’t believe anyone’s ever been in your situation before so—there’s no right or wrong about what you’re doing. It’s all about what you want to do.”  

“You think so?” your voice cracked, and he leaned forward so that you could see the honesty in those pretty grey eyes of his.

“I know so… and if you still feel guilty then allow me to bear it with you.” He took a deep breath before he slipped one hand away from you to tug at the fifth button of his summoning robes. Your eyes widened—stunned, as you recognized what he is about to do.

“Let me express to you my own selfish desire.” He pressed the button into your palms as he met your gaze evenly. “I love you [Name]—I want you to stay—so—can I be the reason you do?”

His deep red hair fluttered in the cool wind that passed through the open halls of the college. You could see sweat dribble down his temple, and the smallest shake of his bottom lip. He swallowed; his Adam’s apple bobbed. His own eyes peered and searched your gaze too—for any indicator of the answer you would choose to deem him with.

As you looked at Riddle, you knew that a part of you will always feel guilty about the choice you were about to make but—that honest affection in those eyes were enough for you to know that Riddle, as he is, was always going to be enough of a reason to stay.

“Yes…” you murmured, and Riddle’s nervous expression broke away for a joyous one—an expression that made your heart do a little dance. “Yes—I’d want you to be the reason I stay.”  

--

It took all your courage (and the fact that it was his graduation—Great Seven did he look so good in those robes—) to finally tell Leona about what Crowley had told you.

“Good riddance.”

You felt your face pale, and your soul—shatter at Leona’s reply.

“What… what did you say?” you stuttered, “Did you just really…?”

“I said good riddance.” Leona rolled those green eyes of his at you. “You can finally go home. You can finally stop bothering me.” His eyes turned poisonous—and you felt your whole body weaken. You would have dropped to your knees if Leona’s glare hadn’t frozen you in the first place.

“You…” you swallowed, “you don’t mean that… you don’t… right… Leona…?”

“Good—” his green eyes became murky with an emotion you couldn’t quite understand, “—riddance.” He then scoffed and stuffed his hands into his pockets. “Now leave me alone.”

“But—”

He began to walk away—but desperate—you grabbed him from behind. Your hands wrapped around his chest, as you clung to him as tight as you could.

“Herbivore... The hell are you doing?” Leona hissed as he moved to rip your hands off him. 

“Wait!” He froze at the command in your tone, and the way you pressed your head in between his shoulder blades.

“Let me... let me say something... Please...” 

‘Were you crying?’ Leona tensed; his tail flicked about in irritation—ready to confront anyone who made his woman cry—

He hissed at his own thoughts. 

“I’m not going to listen to your shit, woman.” He snapped, and he felt you flinch against him. Something deep and primal in him whimpered—because he knew he had terrified you.

He had to convince himself—this is for the best. This is for your sake. 

You were not his woman. You were not his mate. You should not have a future with him.

You were supposed to be leaving.

He wanted you to leave. 

It would be better that way.

You didn’t deserve the second prince. You didn’t deserve a rebel. You—

You deserved much better than him.

‘So please let me go.’ he thought, a little desperately, ‘because if you don’t... then I won’t be able to let go.’ 

“Leona... I... I really have no courage. I can’t even look you in the face because I’m...” He growled at that, and he felt you flinch again. “Let me do this...” He felt you move your hands, and you pressed something into his own palms. You curled your fingers around it, before you pulled away. 

“I want you to have this. If you won’t let me say anything... then please let me do this.” 

There was a brief silence—as you studied the way Leona remained tensed, his tail jerked around in irritation and your eyes shut in despair.

‘Of course... It’s Leona... what was I thinking?’ 

‘Of course, he wouldn’t want you to stay—of course—’ you realized your own foolishness. ‘Of course, he wouldn’t want you.’

“I’ll go. I’m sorry.” you said before you rushed off, as you tried, desperately not to make a sound as you cried.

Leona’s ears moved rapidly; despite your attempt to not make a sound—he could clearly hear you cry your heart out as you ran away from him.

“Tch…” he looked down at his hands, only for his brows to furrow in confusion. “This is… a button?”

“Does the herbivore…” He lifted his head to look off into the direction you took off in. “does she know what this means…?” His brow twitched in irritation; he pulled his hand back and got into a stance to throw the button away—but something in him couldn’t do it.

‘Are you really going to throw her heart away?’

“Shit!” He swore to himself as he threw a fist at the closest thing he could—one of the trees in the garden. He paused, as his eyes lingered on the patch of grass that he enjoyed taking naps on… with you.

He thought of all the things he would lose—

The way you smiled at him, despite how hopeless he was as a person. The way your skin felt against his own when he could get away with hugging you despite never saying those three words… The way you looked at him with acceptance—regardless of his glaring faults.

He thought of all the things he would never experience—

The way you would suit the crown of a princess—more than any other women he’d known. The way you could glow under the light of Afterglow Savanna’s sun. The love you two could’ve shared if he would just stop being such an asshole—“Stupid woman…” he growled low to himself, as he spun to give chase to you. His hand reached up to rip a certain button off his own robes. “I just can’t be selfless—”

‘Not when it comes to you.’

‘Not when I desperately need you.’

When he pushed open the doors of the Hall of Mirrors, Crowley turned around, startled.

“Kingscholar—?” the Headmaster gaped.

“Is that still connected to her world?”

“Yes but—what are you doing?” Crowley cried, alarmed as Leona rushed for the portal.

‘If there’s a god out there… if the ancestral spirits do exist… then please—’ he faltered at his own thoughts before he shook his head. ‘Please—don’t let me be late—’

-

“You’re back!” Your mother had only paused for a second, stunned when you popped out of the mirror in the living room, and fell to your knees. She quickly dropped down onto the ground before she reached for you and pulled you into her embrace.

“Mom—I’m—” you felt your eyes tear up, “I’m home—” you said—even if a part of you felt that home should have been two green eyes, a cocky smirk, and a warm patch of sunlight on the grassy ground.

“Oh… sweetie…” Your mother pulled back to cup your face in her hands as she studied your expression. “Never mind that—tell me what happened? I need to hear everything!”

You blinked rapidly and nodded. She brought you to the kitchen and sat you down as she whipped up a snack for you to eat as you recounted your adventures in Twisted Wonderland.

You were—baffled—she didn’t seem as terrified as you thought she would be. You had thought you would’ve come back to her crying—or, you don’t know—police in your house maybe? She was calm—and she was simply… interested in your story.

Like she knew all about it already—and she just… wanted to hear your point-of-view.

When you got to the part about Leona—you got all choked up. Regardless of how he treated you—you knew that a part of you would always love him. If anything—it would be something you would desperately cling onto, and in the depths of your heart—you will continue to nurture it. It was the only thing of him, you had left.  

“You loved him.” Your mother held your hands, and you shook your head as you gently corrected her.

“I’ll always love him, mom.” You felt tears hang onto your lashes. “I’ll always… wonder… ‘what if.’”

“Would you go back if you could? Would you stay with him?”

“I… I would but—it’s not like he wanted me.” Your lower lip trembled, and you felt your chin wrinkle at that. “He didn’t want me.”

“I think he did, sweetie.” Your mother wiped your tears away. “Leona is pretty dishonest to others… and especially to himself.” You couldn’t help but chuckle at that.

“He pretty much is.” And that’s when it dawned on you.

“Wait you—” you looked up at your mother with furrowed brows. “Why does it sound like you know him—? You—you haven’t met—”

That’s when the door swings open, and your father’s voice echoed in the house.

“We’re back!” You only had a moment to question what he meant by ‘we’ when he entered the dining hall with a familiar figure.

“Leona—?” Both males looked at you—surprised. Despite how happy you were to see both—your eyes naturally gravitated to Leona.

Your eyes met his, and he blinked slowly before a smirk crawled up his lips.

“Took you long enough.”

-

“Time isn’t exactly linear across two worlds.” Is the first thing Leona told you as he brought you to your room—or more recently referred to as his room. He dragged you onto the bed and pulled you onto his lap with relative ease—his fingers tangled in the cloth of your shirt. The only reason there was a distance between you two—was because of the way you Leona stared at you with a hungry fervour.

He looked at you like he was a starved man who had just caught sight of an oasis in the middle of a desert. There was also a difference in the way he held you—a certain desperation in the way his fingers pressed against your skin—as if making sure that you were no desert mirage. You had just seen him—but it felt as if he was seeing you for the first time in an unbearably long time.

“You entered the portal before I did.” Leona studied you with his vivid green eyes. “but when I went through the portal… I arrived a day after you were first taken to Twisted Wonderland.”

“Wait… so how long… did I miss out on?” you asked weakly.

“It’s been a year.” He replied quietly, and you looked at him—stunned. 

“That’s—you—” you cleared your throat. “why?”

“Why what?”

“Why—why wait? Why—why did you stay?” you whispered, “you could’ve just gone back—” He scoffed.

“That’s simple.” He stared at you evenly. “If I hadn’t waited for you I…” he paused. “I might have never seen you again.” You felt your eyes go wet, but you inhaled sharply as you resisted crying. He pulled you even closer to him, his arms wrapped around your waist. Though you tried to move away—it was futile, Leona was stronger than you.

“Why—I thought you said—”

“I tried to be selfless with you.” Leona confessed lightly, his eyes studied your face—the way your eyes glimmered, the way your lips pouted as you attempted to hold back your tears—you hadn’t changed from whence he last saw you but—

Having lived in a world without you for one year—only strengthened his resolve to be with you.

“I tried to be selfless with you.” Leona repeated, “but I’m sorry—I can’t be. I have to be selfish because—the future I want… it’s one I can only realize by your side so—” He moved his hand away from you only to move it to his pocket. When his fist opened, your eyes widened to see an elegant black button on his palm.

“I’ve waited a year to return my heart to you.” He murmured softly, as you began to cry in earnest. “Will you accept it?”

“Of course, I will—you big—asshole—” you cried, as you hit his chest. Leona could only chuckle, as he raised his other hand to brush your tears away.

“I deserved that.”

“Yes, you did.”

-

With your fingers laced with Leona, you went downstairs to meet up with your parents. Your mother cooed happily, while your father nodded gruffly at Leona.

“You promise you’ll take care of her, alright?” Your father eyed him, and Leona nodded.

“I will.” He promised.

“You will visit, won’t you? Or call through the mirror?” Your mother asked hopefully, and you looked at her surprised, before you glanced up at Leona in a questioning manner.

“So, you would never need to choose.” He dodged your gaze; a light flush rose to his cheeks. “I worked with Crowley and Malleus,” your eyes widened—he willingly worked with Malleus? “to establish a proper connection between your world and mine. I kept in contact with the Crowley who let you through the door in the first place… and now we’ve managed to keep the timelines properly linked.” He raised a hand to scratch at the back of his neck. “Basically… you’ll be able to keep in contact with your parents… or anyone else you wanted to keep in contact with in this world.”

“Leona…” you felt your eyes water at that.

“Don’t cry.” Leona reached down to wipe your tears away, “cry anymore—and your father will retract his blessing.” You looked at him, a little stunned—he didn’t seem like the type of person who’d ask for someone else’s blessing.

“Of course, I did.” Leona said as he figured out where your thoughts had headed, though he sounded slightly offended that you would think he would not have asked.

“It took him a year too.” Your mother said fondly while your father snorted. Leona swiftly cleared his throat before you could ask again.

“A story for another time.” He said way too quickly, before he offered you his hand again. “For now—” his green eyes softened as he met your eyes, and your fingers instinctively laced together once more.

“Shall we go home?” he gestured for the mirror that begun to glow. You smiled, and quickly jerked on his arm to pull him down. Surprised at the sudden motion, Leona’s face drew close to yours—and you leaned forward to press a kiss against his cheek.

“Silly kitty,” you giggled, “I’m already home.” He speedily pulled back. Despite the grumpy expression on his face, you were delighted to see the flush rise to his cheeks once more.

“And I… I am too.” He murmured softly, and your smile slipped into something much more tender.

You were excited to see what the future would hold for you two. 

--

“Azul.” Azul blinked as he turned his head to the approaching Jade. He arched a brow at Jade’s bemused expression—the man rarely made that face. If Jade ever encountered something he didn’t understand, he was more likely to react to it with curiosity and excitement. So, for Jade to be confused—with the lightest flicker of worry… well, Azul immediately found himself to be anxious. 

“What is it?”

“According to one of our juniors, [Name] came by to ask for you earlier—but we were at graduation practice. They redirected her to your office to wait.” Jade’s brows furrowed. “Apparently… she looked quite distressed.” Azul felt himself frown immediately at that. 

“I was going there anyways because of this—” Azul raised his hand to present some documents. “I’ll speak with her.” Jade nodded; his expression looked a little bit more relieved.

“I’ll keep Floyd off for awhile then.” Jade decided, “there must be a reason why she specifically seems to want to speak to you.”

“Alright.” Azul agreed, before the two parted ways. He thought back to when he had met you earlier that day—you had been thrilled to see them. Floyd had happily picked you up and spun you around several times—before you needed to be saved by Azul and Jade. Shortly after that, you had to go attend class—at which point they bid you goodbye, with the promise of spending more time together, later.

Azul, Jade and Floyd had just returned to Night Raven College today for the graduation practice. They hadn’t seen you in person for quite a while because their internships took them far away from the College. Azul wasn’t particularly happy with it (none of them were, really—even you) but you had always known how important success was for Azul (especially him) so you had encouraged him to pick what he knew was the best choice for the future.

His heart sped up at the thought of how deeply you understood his feelings—and his desires. At that point, he promised that he would ensure—his future would be spent making you happy and that you would never be left wanting.

You will get the best from him because he knows how much you deserve it.

You deserved so much better than him—he knew that—he’s accepted it as an irrevocable truth. However—you had chosen to stay by his side, despite his past—and despite his inexcusable actions.

“Azul… I think you shouldn’t be ashamed of your past.” Your voice resonated in his mind, and he’s instantly brought back to that time the two of you quietly stood in front of his elementary school photo.

“After all, it’s because of that Azul—that you’ve become the Azul I see today and…” You turned to him with a tender smile that instantly made his heart soar like a flying fish and his eyes well up with tears.

“I think you should know—that the Azul before me today, is not as terrible as you like to believe.” Then you giggled, and his cheeks flushed red at your next words.

“It’s quite the opposite actually—you’re someone I can’t help but watch because… I think you’re amazing.”

So, he was going to do his best for you.

He was an inherently selfish person.

 You were someone he wanted to hold onto for as long as possible. He knew that maybe one day you’ll realize that he wasn’t worth it. He knew that it will hurt him—but he also knew that if that day comes, he wouldn’t stop you.

He’d let you go.

As selfish as he was—he knew you deserved for him to be selfless for once. Especially if it meant you being happier.

It would hurt so much but—knowing how much better you could probably have—he would do it. 

‘While you’re by my side…As long as you’re in my life… for however long I’m allowed too…’ 

Until the day that someone … or something—that was inarguably the better choice for you comes along— 

‘I’ll treasure you… take care of you… treat you like a Queen—’ 

He stopped right before his office doors, and briefly fiddled with his hair. He inhaled, before he pushed the doors open. You turned to look at him with a despondent expression.

“Azul.” You hiccupped, and his heart dropped to his stomach at seeing your tears. There’s a part of him that immediately goes into a cold fury—‘How dare anyone make you cry—’

“Shh… It’s alright.” He slid the door closed behind him, dropped the paperwork carelessly onto the ground and opened his arms.

You immediately took it as an invitation to delve into his arms. Your breath was shaky, but Azul’s familiar and fresh ocean scent immediately calmed you down. You buried your head in the crook of his neck, and he rubbed one hand consolingly down your back. He slowly led you to sit down on the couch, and let you stay in his arms as he plotted a way to get back at whoever it was that made you show such a sad expression.

Once you pulled away, he immediately pulled out a handkerchief to pat away the wet tear tracks across your face.

“Are you alright?”

“I… yeah… just… I was… overwhelmed.” You said, breath still heavy. "I have something to tell you.” Azul hummed, as he moved to tuck a lock of your hair behind your ear.

“The Headmaster... he’s found a way.” 

“A way...?” Azul cocked his head, not quite understanding what you meant.

“...” 

“...” At the sudden silence, Azul raised his head to see you look down at your hands. He noticed that you were trembling ever so slightly. Azul narrowed his eyes at such an action.

“[Name]?” 

You looked up; your eyes were glassy—with one blink you would probably start crying again. He could see the minute tremble of your jaw. 

“I can go home, Azul.” 

“That’s...” Azul blinked rapidly—stunned but at the same time—his heart tightened in his chest, and he automatically clenched his fists. 

‘Ah…’

‘I didn’t think it would happen so soon…’

‘I didn’t think I’d have to let go of you so quickly…’

‘I don’t want you to go.’ 

Azul was selfish—he has always known that he was selfish... but with you... he always tried to not be. 

He would be selfless with you.

He promised himself that much.

You had always been more than what he deserved—so how could he ask you to stay with him?

Knowing that—he knew what he had to say to you.

“You must be happy.” He finally managed to speak, and he prayed that you didn’t realize how shaky his voice got. He was barely able to keep himself from crying too. “You will go home, won’t you?” 

“Is that it?” you asked, heartbreak in your voice but he gritted his teeth in response. 

“Well... what else did you want me to say?” 

“I...” you stood up; your breath shaky. 

‘I wanted you to give me a reason to stay.’ went unsaid. 

“... Nothing. I just... came here to tell you.” you finally said, your voice soft. “I’ll... see you later Azul.” You turned quickly—but not fast enough for him to not see the tear that slipped down your cheek as you escaped Mostro Lounge’s VIP Room. 

“...” 

Azul laced his hands together, before he rested his forehead against his hands. A whimper left his lips, as he began to shake in his seat. 

“Tch...” 

His heart squeezed tight—and he idly wondered if this was the type of feeling that Floyd’s victims got. It hurt—it hurt so much. Azul’s pathetic whimpers turned into guttural sobs. His fingers spread to cover his eyes—and his glasses slid off his face, down to his lap and then to the ground—at his actions. His whole body shook as he cried his heart out.

The one time he tried to be profoundly good—

The one time he tried to be selfless—

It was only right that he felt this much pain over it—after all—he always believed that he deserved it.

He struggled to remind himself how much this was for your sake. How this was better for you. Even if you began to hate him for it (and witch, did the thought of you despising him made another disgusting whimper slip out of his lips—), he’ll watch over you—only the best for you.  

-

When you rushed out of the room, you immediately slammed right into the twins. They are both briefly stunned by your expression, but just as quickly, you clung onto the closest twin—in which case, it was Floyd. The man immediately wrapped his arms around you. He began to coo comforting words to you as he shot a look at his twin. Jade’s eyes flickered between you and Azul’s shut door, before he ultimately decided to shuffle you and his brother into a nearby room. Once you were sat down, Jade quietly coaxed the story of what happened out of you.

Through your tears, you tell him. You grow a little terrified as both twins gain a quiet look of rage almost identical with Azul’s earlier expression at your tears. The two share a look, and Floyd almost immediately got up—until you stop him.

“Please… don’t be mad at Azul…” you muttered, “I… I don’t think he means it.”

You remember the expression Azul made. First—there was fear, pain—before it shifted to something more like acceptance.

You don’t understand.

Why wouldn’t he think he was worth it?

He had always been selfish—and you wanted him to be selfish with you—and yet—

“You must be happy.”

He had said, but you had immediately caught the slightest bit of wetness that had began to well up in his blue eyes. You had noticed the way he had stiffened, the way his breath and voice hitched as he did his best to hide from you what you were truly feeling—

Jade and Floyd exchanged another glance, before coming to the same conclusion.

“Listen [Name].” Jade reached and cupped your chin in a delicate manner. “Here’s what we’ll do…”

-

When Azul finally exited his office, he had to fix his robes, and his make-up—if only to keep his unflappable façade as Azul Ashengrotto of Octavinelle. What he didn’t anticipate was to be immediately blocked by the Leech twins.

“Ah. There you two are.” Azul cleared his throat, his voice still scratchy from the amount of crying he just did. “There are some things we need to do—” Floyd slammed a hand against the wall right next to Azul’s head, before he leaned closed—his eyes dark as he studied the octopus merman in front of him.

“Shrimpy ran by here. She was crying.” Floyd’s eyes narrowed, and Jade sighed from behind him. “What did you do?”

“Apparently, the dear girl is being offered a chance to go home.” His voice trembled at the last word, but he held fast to his belief that this is the best choice for you. “I congratulated her on it.”

“Why?” Floyd hissed, “why would you—Azul—”

“It was only logical to assume so.” Azul said in response. “I presumed she wished to go home.”

“What… makes you think she wouldn’t want to stay here?” was Jade’s quiet query.

“It’s obviously the better choice for her to go. There’s nothing for her here.” Both twins blinked, a little awed that Azul—their selfish, greedy Azul—just said that.

“… There’s nothing here worth staying for. Not for her at least.” Azul said—at the sight of their expressions. “I’m sure—she’ll be happier in her home world. She should have never even come here.”

And wasn’t that a terrifying thought?

He wondered what it would have been like to have lived in a world where he had no concept, no idea of you. He shuddered immediately—he would rather always be able to remember you. If he could not have you, then he would cup the memories you shared together in his palms and hold on as tight as he could.

Floyd let out a disbelieving laugh.  

“Is that truly what you believe?” Jade’s eyes narrowed, “that there’s nothing for her here?”

“You can’t sincerely believe that!” Floyd snarked, his expression twisted in displeasure. “The Azul we know—he would be selfish.”

“Don’t you see?” Azul, fed up, finally yelled, “It’s because I’ve always been selfish with her that I should be selfless for once.” He gritted his teeth aggressively.

“Of course, I want her to stay! I practically need her to stay.” He inhaled sharply, as he looked at the twins with wet eyes—frustrated that, as per usual, he had lost control of his emotions and tears. “But I also need to acknowledge that it may not be the best choice for her! So, I don’t want her to consider me when she’s making this decision—It’s not about me. It’s about her.” He exhaled, a part of him satisfied that he had managed to stun the twins once more… that is until Jade let out a soft chuckle and stepped aside to reveal that you were standing right behind him. Floyd stepped back, while a snicker escaped his lips.

“Azul.” You peered at him with wet eyes, and he tensed.

“You two—” Azul looked up to glare at the twins, who shrugged easily as they retreated away.

“Azul… why do you think like that?”

“…” He looked away, he didn’t want to answer, but when he felt your soft hands cup his face so that you could direct him to look at you—seeing that familiar look in your eyes—the one that told him how badly you wanted to understand him—instantly made him soften. “I always think about it… you deserve better. Better than me.”

“Azul… you need… to stop thinking of yourself like this. I love you.” You added, and his eyes widened, “Regardless of what you think—I think the best option for me… is to be by your side Azul.”

“You… really think that?” his voice shook, and you sniffled too.

“Of course, I do! Even if you didn’t want me… or need me…” you lower lip trembled, and Azul wanted to kiss your worries away. “I would cling to you as tightly as possible—it hurts but—I’d stay. You’re always going to be worth it for me.” Azul’s whole body quivered, and without thinking his hand slid onto a button on his blouse. He took one of your hands off his face to press a button onto your palms.

“You have my heart.” He murmured, voice soft, and his eyes moist. “and you have my future… if you’ll let me share them with you.”

“It’s a deal, Mr. Ashengrotto.” You said, your own eyes pricked with tears—and he let out a little chuckle.

He will continue to do everything in his power to always—remain—the best option for you.

-

“What a couple of cry-babies.” Despite Floyd’s tone, a pleased smile made its way to his lips.  

“Our cry-babies.” Jade murmured, a familiar smirk plastered on his own face as he watched you and Azul bawl into each other’s arms.

--

You were, once more, invited to Scarabia’s annual graduation party for their fourth-year students. It was… one of their grander parties and it was hardly the first one you had ever attended since befriending their Dorm Leader two years ago.

However—what made this party different from the others you’ve attended so far, was because a part of the graduating batch were your friends—Kalim and Jamil. The very fact Kalim was graduating, made the Asim family decide to sponsor this year’s party. This meant that even as far as grand parties would go—this year’s party blew the past other parties away in terms of extravagance. There were a lot of people (guests of the graduates), food (completely catered—for sure Jamil slunk away a little miffed that he didn’t get to cook), music (hired by the Asims) and dancing (right in the centre of the room too!)

It was incredibly beautiful—and just… something you have never believed you would have had the chance to experience. You expressed as such to Kalim, who, with a grin—laced his fingers with yours as he pulled you straight to the dance floor. His warm hand landed on the curve of your waist before he began to lead you in a complicated dance. You let out a few squeals here and there—especially because dances native to the Land of Hot Sands were quick, and nothing like you’ve experienced before. Kalim only grinned happily as he twirled you around then rapidly pulled you back into his arms. You could feel your cheeks flush red as you were pressed up against the man’s well-defined chest.

“Isn’t this fun, [Name]?” Kalim let out a boisterous laugh as he continued to spin with you at the centre of the celebration. His dark summoning robes shined under the opalescent light of the room.

“Yeah…” your eyes flickered away briefly, before landing back on his face. Luckily, Kalim had not noticed your slightest hesitation—nor the fact that you were lying.

It wasn’t that you weren’t enjoying yourself—you always enjoyed any moment you could spend with Kalim—that was the truth but—

You could feel the countless dark stares that many of the eligible young women of Twisted Wonderland shot as you hogged Kalim’s attention. Ever since you had arrived at the party, Kalim had happily, and staunchly stayed by your side throughout it—eagerly sharing with you details from the Land of the Hot Sands.

It made you… nervous… insecure.

“Hm? Is something wrong?” Kalim cocked his head to the side, bright red eyes curious—but you didn’t want him to feel upset on such an important day for him.

“It’s really nothing.” As the music finished, you pulled away. “I do think I’m a little tired… So, I think I’ll go rest back at the table.” He gave you a worried look.

“Are you sure?” he cocked his head in an innocently curious manner that made your heart hum in pleasure of his concern. “You’re my friend, [Name]! So, I want to make sure you’re well!”

‘You’re my friend.’

‘You’re just a friend.’

You felt your lips tightened at such a damning sentence, and you quickly looked away.

“Yeah, I just…” you paused, “maybe you can dance with someone else?” you suggested—even if you wished with all your heart that he’d notice how you were truly feeling.

“Oh! That’s a great idea!” Kalim beamed brightly, before he turned around and happily waved his arms. “Who wants to dance with me next?”

In an instant, the Asim Heir was surrounded by gorgeous women, and you were elbowed out of the crowd.

“Oof.” You grasped at your stomach after you were harshly pushed away, and some of the ladies at the outermost part of the circle, sniffed haughtily at you before they turned away.

You stood there for a moment, as you wondered if it would be too late to fight your way through the crowd to reach his side but… You watched Kalim offer his hand to one of the beautiful women. Something in you lurched, and you could not bear to watch so you quickly retreated to your seat—you felt like a coward.

Your table was devoid of your year mates now. Grim was hanging around with Deuce near the buffet table. Ace and Epel, on the other hand, were incredibly popular and seemed to be dancing with some other women too. Ace looked pleased, but Epel’s expression practically begged for someone to get him out of there. Jack on the other hand, claimed that the noise was too much for him, and had eagerly retired to his dorm. You let out a small giggle, as you briefly met Epel’s suffering gaze, before he and his partner turned again. In the process, your eyes landed on the ever cheerful Kalim… and his incredibly enthusiastic partner.

The woman had herself pressed up against his body and seemed to be saying something right into his ear… but judging from her slightly frustrated expression—whatever she was saying had no effect on Kalim. 

“In my generosity, I have found a way to bring you back home... but...” the Headmaster peered at you with glowing eyes. “Something tells me you don’t want that anymore.”

You frowned as that memory, unbidden, returned to the forefront of your mind. You were supposed to tell Kalim about it but… Your eyes flickered up to see him dance away with the woman.

You doubted you would get the chance to do so now.

Which you definitely… did not do on purpose.

You just—did not know—

How does one bid goodbye to the sun?

As the music ended, the same hoard of women surrounded Kalim once more. Despite the pang in your heart—you couldn’t help the exasperated but fond sigh that left your lips as you see Kalim smile cheerfully at them all.

Not at all bothered.

Still of a kind heart.

The way he was right now…

‘He truly is the sun.’ you thought, you looked around and you noticed—that everyone was paying attention to Kalim. Their gaze fixated and focused on Kalim’s next actions.

‘Everyone here is a heavenly body, orbiting the brilliant sun.’

Kalim had always had a sense of magnitude to him—always had a spark that attracted everyone… even those who were never meant to stay.

‘And I’m a meteor off course.’

Your eyes hazed over and watered immediately at the realization of your position.

‘I cannot stay.’

You ducked your head frantically—as you felt the inevitable spill of your tears down the curve of your cheeks.

‘I have no place here… no place to stay.’

No one ever willingly bids goodbye to the sun.

They spend the rest of their lives trying to find the right way back to it.

And you know the path you must walk will take you universes away from the one sun that you wished you could orbit around for eternity.

You choked briefly, and instinctively grabbed a nearby napkin to dab at your face. You were glad Grim was enjoying the festivities at the table across—had he been with you, everyone would have probably noticed your complete breakdown.

You sniffled quickly and froze as a hand that held out a handkerchief, entered your line of sight. Your eyes traced the tanned forearm, up the toned arm, before your gaze was caught by deep dark eyes.

Jamil stared at you with a frown on his face as he pressed the handkerchief into your hands. You flinched, startled, before you grabbed it.

“Thanks.” You stuttered, voice low, and Jamil gazed at you unflinchingly.

“You’re thinking of going home.” He murmured in that soft spoken, delicate tone of his. “No… you’re already going home.” His eyes narrowed, and under the candlelight of Scarabia’s halls—the shadow of the flames licked his face and made his dead, calm expression somehow… even more terrifying than usual.

“Please… don’t look at me like that.” You bowed your head, as some of your tears slipped down your knuckles. You could hear Jamil sigh.

“You’re going to break his heart.” Jamil murmured, his voice as cool and collected as ever.

“How can I break something… that I’ve never held in the first place…?” You muttered as you lifted a golden goblet up to your lips. Jamil shot you an unimpressed stare at that.

“Regardless of what you believe,” Jamil pursed his lips. “You will hurt him.”

“It’s not going to last.” You said in defence. “He’ll move on…” you looked up; tears got caught in your lashes as you blinked rapidly. “He’s going to meet people even more amazing… Like someone who …”

‘Someone who will suit him.’

‘The best person that he could be with.’

“I’m sure of that.” You tried to sound convincing—but you couldn’t truly—not when your heart believed otherwise.

“… That… isn’t something that you alone can decide.” Jamil’s eyes slid to Kalim. The man was burning as bright as ever in the centre of the room. “Kalim should have a say in that as well.”

“I can’t believe you’re the one saying that.” It was wrong of you to say that. It was—without a doubt—a low blow. Judging from the most miniscule of movement above Jamil’s brow—you had guessed he thought the same.

He didn’t blow up and instead, the man sighed deeply as he picked up his own golden goblet for a drink. You look down onto the handkerchief that you clenched in your hands.

“Jamil…” you did not look up, and instead your hand reached for your own pocket. “would you… give him this letter?” you pulled out a wrinkled envelope—one you had penned immediately after learning from Crowley that you could go home.

You… you couldn’t bear the thought of watching Kalim get sad.

You had always figured that if something like this came up you would tell him in a letter instead.

So, that you would never have to face his sadness or his tears.

“… You’re a coward.” Jamil said quietly, before he grabbed the envelope anyways.

You don’t say anything.

He was right of course.

You were just a coward—as you frantically cupped your heart in your hands in the hopes that it would not burn away into nothingness.

-

“Then,” Crowley peered down at you with glowing eyes. “Are you ready?”

You had to drag your eyes away from the doorway—that you had stared at whilst you wondered if anyone would run after you.

Though you knew nobody would.

It had been what you wanted in the first place.

You didn’t want… you hated seeing people get sad. So—you had chosen to write letters to all your friends… and you had set them in places you’re sure they’d see. It was so selfish of you but—

You remember Kalim’s tears when Jamil had overblotted, two years ago…

‘It’s better this way.’ You reassured yourself before you looked at Crowley.

“Ready as I’ll ever be.” You tried to smile, and something about the way Crowley tilted his head made you feel as if he pitied you. He chose not to say anything, and instead the Headmaster gestured to the glowing mirror.

You took one step toward the mirror before the door behind you dramatically burst open.

“[NAME]!” Your heart stopped at the voice, and you turned around to see that Kalim was standing right there—his hands on his knees as he panted in exhaustion.

“Ka…lim… why…” your eyes caught sight of a Jamil who slowly dragged his feet into the Hall of Mirrors before your line of sight was completely blocked out by Kalim’s red eyes.

“[Name]! Why—why are you leaving?” His lower lip wobbled, and your heart wrenched itself at the fact that you were the cause of such an expression. “And you didn’t even tell me—have I—are we not friends? Is that not enough reason for you to stay?” His expression looked so genuinely heartbroken, but you snapped into attention at his words.

“The thing is Kalim…” you tried to avoid his gaze. “It’s exactly because we are friends that I… that I cannot stay.” You managed to force out.

“What? Why?” he gaped at you, and your frustration at the situation made tears begin to slip out of your eyes.

“Because I love you, you idiot!” you practically yelled, uncaring of your audience. Kalim gaped at you.

“But—but—I love you too!” Your heart quickened at his statement, but you frantically shook your head.

“No, you don’t—you love me—as a friend.” You emphasized, “and I can’t stay knowing that—you need to end up with someone… better than me—”

“I mean it [Name]!” honesty shone in those red eyes. There was a flicker of desperation in those eyes before he quickly fell to his knees in front of you. You gaped at him in surprise as he reached for his chest.

Snap.

He looked up at you, as he stretched out his hand to offer you the gleaming button.

“I love you [Name].” He met your eyes head on—and the seriousness in that gaze of his made an exquisite shiver run down your spine. “So—won’t you marry me?”

--

As the graduation ceremony in the Mirror Chamber concluded, Vil and Rook exited first out of all the Pomefiore fourth years. They quickly approached their Pomefiore juniors, who were all, enthusiastically cheering for them. 

"Congratulations Senior Schoenheit! Congratulations Senior Hunt!” 

Epel shuffled forward and offered the two seniors a big bouquet of brilliant red roses each. 

“Oh~ They are beautiful~ Merci, Epel.” Rook took the bouquet with a pleased expression, and happily sniffed the roses. “and very fragrant too~” 

“You were so impressive, Senior Schoenheit! You got so many awards!” said one particularly awed junior.

“Naturally.” Vil inclined his head, as he inhaled the intoxicating scent of the roses. Around him, his juniors continued to give bouquets to his fellow seniors. Disinterested in that—his eyes flickered around in a slow pace... looking for...

Vil frowned behind the rose bouquet when he could not catch sight of you.

‘Now, where could you have gone, sweet potato?’ 

“Er...” Vil glanced back down at Epel, to see him quickly flicker his eyes in a direction. 

‘I see.’ 

“Excuse me.” he murmured underneath his breath before he proceeded to move away from the Pomefiore gathering, down the path Epel had signalled him too. 

-

“Congratulations Vil. I mean—I guess you didn’t need it but--ah... no... I’m saying this all wrong...” he heard you before he saw you. His glossed lips curled up in an amused smirk at the sound of you practising your congratulatory message. Vil turned the corner to see you seated at a bench in the middle of the open courtyard. Unlike him, you were dressed properly in your version of the school uniform. You had furrowed brows, a wrinkled nose and pouted lips as you stared into a bouquet of what looked to be dark coloured flowers. He almost called out to you when you began to speak to yourself again. 

“Hi, [Name] here. I wanted to congratulate you and also... tell you... Agh! Is this really the time to tell him about that? God... I don’t want to...” 

“Don’t want to what?” You jumped in your seat. You turned your head quickly, only to immediately loose both your train of thought and breath at the sight of him. 

It was not the first time you had seen Vil in the summoning robes—he had been one of those students that had immediately caught your eye during that entrance ceremony—all those years ago.

But...

It was like seeing him for the first time—if that made sense.

His light blonde hair twisted into loose lavender waves that accentuated his sharp but delicate features. The sheer brilliance of his violet eyes in contrast to the paleness of his lashes were further accentuated by the dark make up that no one else but Vil Schoenheit could possibly hope to pull off. His lips were glossed gently with that pale lavender colour that had you dying. How long have you dreamed of kissing those lips? Smearing that lavender colour across his cheek? Ruining him, the way he’s ruined you?

How could you ever hope to fall out of love with Vil Schoenheit? 

How could you ever hope to fall in love with someone else, after Vil Schoenheit?

He approached you slowly, with an elegant countenance only heightened by the way his robes swirled around him. 

“Sweet potato?” He arched a fine brow. You were still silent despite that he had taken the seat next to you. While he may draw pleasure from the way he made you speechless, your earlier words still held fast to his curiosity. You snapped into attention after you realised that you had been staring for quite a while at him.

“T-That is—Senior Vil! Congratulations on your graduation!” you stuttered out as you simultaneously offered to him the bouquet in your arms. You peered up at him worriedly, and promptly got distracted by the way his long lashes tangled briefly as he blinked. 

“Roses as well?” he tilted his head, pale blonde hair curled gently around his cheeks. You paused and saw that he also had a bouquet of vivid, red roses in his arms. 

“Oh! Um! How presumptuous of me... I didn’t mean... that is to say...” he always turned you into a nonsensical fool. It was impossible to string words into sentences when everything would fall away in the face of Vil. He stared at you, bemused, as you babbled. “Sorry, I suppose you wouldn’t want this—Right, that’s that—I can just—” 

“I did not say that.” Vil’s slender shoulders shook in laughter. Vil dropped the bouquet of red roses he had already been holding, to take the bouquet you offered him. He peered at it gently and noticed that what he had originally thought were black roses were actually—not. As he moved it under the light of the sun, the roses would shift between a dark violet or a deep blue. His breath caught in his throat. Red roses were—no doubt—classic. They were beautiful—but this bouquet you gave him… the roses were bewitching. 

“What colour are they meant to be?” he finally asked as he leaned down to inhale the familiar, comforting scent of roses.

“What do you see?” At that, he looked up at you with a curious expression. You looked back, eager to hear what he thought. 

“I can see violet and blue toned colours... they also seem to be black in some angles.” 

“Oh.”

“Are they not meant to be like that?” 

“No, no they are... I asked ah... Professor Crewel to help me breed these type of roses... It’s amazing what magic can do for plants.” you admitted, his eyes flickered quickly between you and the bouquet.

“You bred these... specifically?” 

“Ah... yeah... back home...” you struggled briefly, “there were these roses that were either bred or coloured to look pink and yellow. I wanted to make ones that were violet or blue. Thanks to magic, it’s possible to actually create these.” 

“Why?” he scrutinised your expression as you quickly flushed.

“Er... That’s because I couldn’t choose between either of the colours.” You said quickly as you licked your chapped lips—momentarily realising that you had forgotten to bring your lip balm. ‘Vil is looking at me, and I’m horrendously ugly. What hasn’t changed?’ you bemoaned to yourself.

“I figured... Pomefiore colours, yeah?” 

You watched as he studied the way the colours of the rose petals would shift in the light. You were happy to note that there was a little glow of awe in those violet eyes, and—what you hoped was delight. His expression quickly shuttered after you noted that they were Pomefiore colors, and he dragged his gaze from the deep coloured roses to glance at you.

“You know sweet potato... lying isn’t very attractive.” he said, nonchalant, and you froze. 

“What... lying?” you chuckled nervously. His eyes narrowed briefly, and you winced.

“You thought I wouldn’t notice?” You quickly avoided his gaze as you felt your eyes immediately begin to go wet, “Sweet potato, look at me.” You inhaled sharply as you slowly turned your head to face him again. You chewed nervously on your lower lip, and his eyes narrowed again. 

“Don’t do that.” 

“Sorry.” you knew he was referring to your habit of chewing on your lower lip. 

“Well?” 

“... I was hoping you wouldn’t notice until... later.” you finally admitted. “though who am I kidding—I wanted you to know... I wouldn’t have given that to you if I hadn’t wanted you to know that...” 

“Violet roses mean ‘love at first sight’.” Vil murmured softly, “Blue roses mean ‘impossible love’... and Black roses have so much meaning... just what are you trying to say with this bouquet, [Name]?” you flinched as he named all the colours that appeared in the bouquet. 

“Black roses... I... this is also me saying... goodbye.” Vil froze, as he turned to you quickly, his eyes turned even sharper. 

“What are you going on about?” 

“Headmaster Crowley... he found a way for me to go back.” you swallowed, “and... I think I’ll go.” 

“And what about the violet and blue roses? Will you ignore what you just told me?” Vil demanded, and you looked away—unable to look at him—because you know that if you do, your resolve will falter. 

“That’s... I just... I wanted to confess. To get all these feelings out because I know... I know it’s impossible.” Your lower lip trembled, but you held fast and tight onto your resolve.

‘Just let it out. Get it out of your system and... and maybe you could start again.’ 

“Why do you believe it’s impossible?” You hear Vil sigh, exasperated. “For the Queen’s sake—look at me [Name].” 

“No, look at me.” you snapped back, and he recoiled briefly at the sudden flash of anger. "I’m more than aware that we...” 

‘We have no chance. I, of all people—know that. It’s just some dream I cooked up in my head.’ 

“Look at us.” you said, miserable. “I... you’re so beautiful... and amazing... and I’m just... me. How could I ever suit someone like you? How could I make someone like you, happy?” 

“You will stop talking like that.”

“Like what?” 

“Putting yourself down the way you’re doing right now.” He replied, “and look at me when I’m speaking to you, [Name].” You feel a soft, gentle hand cup your cheek, and move it to face him. Vil had a frown on his face—and while he never looked less pretty because of it, you still hated that you were the cause of it.

“[Name]... you...” he paused, sighed before he dropped the bouquet of dark coloured roses down onto his lap and raised a hand to his uniform. 

Snap.

Your eyes widened as you watched Vil rip a button off from his uniform before he offered it to you. 

“Vil—that—you—” you stuttered. You remembered him talking about the importance of the uniform, and he was the last person you would ever imagine, who would actually—

“What normally happens is... someone confesses, and the other party decides whether or not to give the button. When the other party gives their button—it means they return the love of the person who confessed.” Jack’s voice echoed in your head.

“There’s a tradition at graduations in this world.” Vil began gently as he placed it in your hands, “when one person confesses—the other can chose to—” 

“Give them a button.” you murmured and Vil tilted his head to the side in surprise.

“You know of it?”

“The others... Jack... told me.” you mumbled, “but this... Vil... you...” 

“My happiness will not be dictated by others—no, Vil Schoenheit is a person who will grasp happiness with his own hands.” He leaned towards you and pressed his forehead against you. His eyes softened as your eyes watered and the tears began to spill. “I’m giving you this button because I’ve already found happiness by your side. Nothing you say will change that so...” He brushed your tears away with the thumb of his hands, and you found yourself lost in the gentle affection in those violet eyes. 

“Won’t you stay with me?” Those lavender lips curled—and you’ve never ever wanted so badly to kiss someone in your life, “I’m not a generous person, [Name]. You can only answer yes… or yes.” 

--

“Ah—[Name]!” Ortho signalled for you to come close quickly. You moved to the boy’s side, before he gestured for you to peak into Idia’s room. You had expected to see Idia as he fiddled away with his computer—as per usual. To your surprise however—Idia was in fact—just stared off into space. You gaped at him, before you peered down at Ortho who nodded worriedly.

“Big Brother’s been like that for a while.” You could hear the frown in Ortho’s voice. “I don’t know what to do—not even his games can pull him out of it.”

“Really?” at the disbelief tone, Ortho looked up at you with wide golden eyes.

“Really!” he nodded, his fiery hair bobbed at his movement. “He hasn’t touched a single game in a while! He’s actually gone to some of his classes—well I still needed to bring him there—but he didn’t resist like usual… In fact, he didn’t complain at all! He’s even gone to graduation practice! That’s why he’s—” Ortho gestured at his outfit, and you realized that Idia was, in fact, dressed in the summoning robes.  

“What do I do?” Ortho asked, and you knew if he could cry—he probably already would be.

“I’ll… I’ll try to talk to him. You can stay here, alright?” Ortho nodded, and with a deep breath, you pushed the door open.

-

Idia, on the other hand, still stared off into empty space—unable to register anything. All he could do was think about what had got him so distracted.

Crowley had bothered him too much about graduation—and Idia just simply… didn’t want to think about it. Unluckily for Idia, the Headmaster could become incredibly annoying when he wanted to be. Whenever Idia just wanted to brush aside the issues—Crowley only pressed him even more. At his wit’s end, Idia had thought to mess around with his computer… or something. Perhaps jam Crowley’s ability to connect to Idia—or even better—plant something that will hear his secrets… (‘I sound like Azul,’ Idia had even despaired briefly).

It was as he hacked his way into Crowley’s system in the Headmaster’s office that Idia had accidentally listened into a particular conversation that he sorta wished he remained oblivious too.

-

“You asked for me?” Idia had jostled in his seat when he heard you speak. He rapidly looked around his room—wondering if you had made it in without him realizing (again). He had an excuse on his lips—ready to be said if you wondered what he was doing. (He had a feeling ‘annoying Crowley because he wants me to physically attend graduation’ might not up your support levels together much.)

“Ah yes [Name]! Please! Do come in! And sit, sit! For I am gracious.” Idia whirled around to look at his monitor. With some rapid taps onto his keyboard, he was able to get a visual of Crowley’s office. He quickly recognized your form from behind.

‘What are you doing in Crowley’s office?’ Idia thought. He didn’t need to wonder too long however because his question was quickly answered.

“My dear girl, I’ve done it!” Crowley said rather cheerfully, “For I am gracious!”

“That’s… great?” Idia could imagine your cute, confused expression. You made it often enough whenever he tried to explain anything about the games he played. Though your worlds bore many similarities when it came to consoles—there were minute differences that often slipped your mind. He let out a soft giggle at that—you were adorable, and just having thoughts about you made his mood all better.

“That’s great.” You had repeated slowly, “but ah… I’m confused—what is this about, Headmaster?” you inquired, genuinely sounding like you had no idea what he was talking about.  

‘Maybe I should go off. I don’t want to listen in and… I’m sure she’ll tell me whatever it is about—yeah?’ Idia nodded to himself, and just as he’s about to click the button that would cut off the audio—

“Well, what else could it be about my dear girl~?” Crowley had cackled, “In my generosity, I have found a way to bring you back home—”

Idia’s hand slammed down on the keyboard in shock, as he began to choke. He stared at his black screen in shock—not sure how to feel about what he had just heard.

‘You’re going home?’

-

He shouldn’t… have been as surprised as he was really.

He remembered that day, around two years ago, when you were first isekai’d into Twisted Wonderland. He knew that the plan had always been to send you home as soon as Crowley actually found a way to do so but…

As he spent time with you—he had gradually forgotten.

No, he didn’t forget—he—

Put it out of his mind.

He was so caught up in enjoying the time he had with you, that it had slipped his mind that it wasn’t permanent. That it wasn’t something that could last for as long as he wanted.  

He knew that you always had your past world—your family, friends, and life—in your thoughts. He would too—if he were suddenly isekai’d in some foreign world where he had nothing.

So, Idia thought little of the possibility that you would remain in this world any longer. He knew—

He knew you’d want to go home because—

“What would keep you here?”

“What would keep who here?”

Idia yelped and leapt off his chair at the sound of your voice. He turned around to see you, as you peered at him with an amused smile. His heart skipped a beat at the way you smiled.

‘This is illegal—! You shouldn’t have power over me like this!’ He wailed inwardly, ‘Especially when—’ He let out a strangled noise as you pressed a warm, soft hand against his forehead.

“You don’t seem sick…” you mused, and you tilted your head in a way that Idia squealed at. You were just… so cute. Perfect waifu material for sure—you were kind—always so kind to him, and always willing to understand him in ways no one else ever was able to do. Ortho loved you too—

“Idia?” you leaned closer, and Idia frantically moved back. A wire made him trip backwards, and he let out a pained grunt at that.

“Oh no—are you okay?” He raised a hand to prevent you from drawing any closer.

“I’m okay!” he squeaked out, “I’m fine—just—give me a moment—”

“Alright.” You drew back, and with little hesitation, you chose to sit down on his bed as you watched Idia slowly stand upright. He patted his behind and winced—at which you let out a soft giggle. After a few more moments, Idia shuffled to sit right beside you. He fiddled with his sleeves awkwardly, his eyes flickered away—and back to you.

“Why—why are you staring at me like that?” he finally managed to say, and you smiled.

“Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in the summoning robes.” You said, “they suit you. You’re very handsome Idia.” Idia’s face quickly flamed up, and his hands rose to cup his own cheeks as he began to stutter rather fiercely.

“That—you—but—I—you lie!” he settled on; his face completely flushed with embarrassment.

“I’m not lying.” You shook your head, as you admired him in his summoning robes. You really weren’t—Idia can clean up rather nicely, and the dark colour of the robes accentuated the blue of his hair and the gold of his eyes.

“Thanks.” He said, his hands still covered the bottom half of his face.

“Are you really okay, Idia?” you asked, a little more concerned when your attempt at a conversation fell through.

“Yeah…?” he looked at you confused, and your eyes moved to the door. You knew Ortho was still there but…

“Ortho was pretty worried about you. Said you were acting all weird.”

“That’s because…” he chewed his lower lip, and he looked at you from the corner of his eye. “Well…”

“You can tell me anything.” You said—as you always did, when Idia worried himself to a frenzy at what you might think of the things he liked. “You know me Idia, I don’t mind.”

“Yeah… it’s…” he hesitated before he turned to you—Idia’s expression was different—it was, strangely serious and intense—not in any way you’ve seen it before. It instantly made you even more worried. “The truth is…”

He was never particularly good at lying—nor was he good at keeping secrets from you. You were a person he considered a dear friend—and he was always the type of person who ended up spilling everything to you. He liked being able to talk about the things he enjoyed—he liked that he had found someone who wanted to hear him out.

So, he told you what he had overheard, his eyes fell to his palms because he could no longer face you. He was worried about what you’d think when you found out that he heard what had happened—and he was worried that something on your face will make him break down.

Idia was afraid of losing you.

Idia was afraid of losing a person who was so willing to be his dear friend.

His fists tightened on his shirt, and he wondered if there was any reason, he could give you so that you would stay.

“Idia…” you began, but your sombre tone made him squeeze his eyes shut because he didn’t want to confront the truth—that you were actually going to leave and…

“Are you really leaving?”

“That’s—”

“Please don’t leave!” you faltered briefly, and looked at the way Idia was hunched over, with his eyes squeezed shut. It would have been quite the comical sight if it were not for the seriousness of the topic.

“Idia—I’m—”

“I really—I don’t want you to go—” he fiddled with his robes. “I know that’s… selfish of me—and I know you’re probably thinking of your family but I think—no—I know—” He hesitated, and he looked up at you, his expression shy, his chin wobbled.

“I… lo—” he shut his eyes quickly as finally blurted out how he truly felt. “I love you [Name]!” He tugged quickly on a button in his robes before he offered it to you with shaking hands.

You stared at him—stunned—you knew what Idia was like. You knew how much courage it must have took him to be tell you this—and to confront you about it too…

“Idia… won’t you look at me? Please?” you asked, gently. He glanced up at you, and you gave him a sweet smile that had his heart run a mile a minute. With that tender expression, you took the button in his hands and rubbed it gently with your fingers.

“Idia… you didn’t hear the whole thing, did you?” Idia furrowed his brows, before he shook his head.

“I accidentally quit the program…” he admitted, “and… I was too scared to go back on so…”

“Idia—I’m not leaving.”

“I guess it wasn’t enough—wait, what?” his head jerked back up to see your happy expression.

“I have no plans on leaving. If you had listened further, you might’ve heard that.” You giggled lightly, “I didn’t want to leave you—so I asked Crowley if it was possible to just… communicate with my world instead.” Idia gaped at you, completely surprised.

“Wait—you’re staying?”

“Yes.”

“For me?” he squeaked, and you nodded.

“For you. For us.” You held up the button between your fingers, and he looked at it for a moment before he met your gaze again, his face rapidly turned a bright red.

“So, I—I didn’t need to—do this—?”

“Technically…  no?”

“Can you just forget the last few minutes please—”

“Absolutely not!” He made a strangled whimper-like sound at the back of his throat, and you laughed as you moved to embrace him. “I won’t forget it—because I love you too!”

“You—you do?”

You pulled back, to cup his face in your hands. His cheeks burned red, but you disregarded that to look into his gold eyes. His pupils shook, and you could see how nervous he was—you could feel the way he trembled in your hands.

“I love you Idia—and I’ll happily accept your heart.” Idia exhaled heavily, as he slackened into your arms, before he moved to wrap his arms around you.

“And… I love you…” he mumbled, less nervous—a little more assured—but for sure, deep in love. “Thank you… for staying with me.”

--

When Malleus himself invited you to Diasomnia—you gathered all your courage to go and tell him about what Crowley had told you.

"Ah [Name].” Sebek greeted you with a cheerful smile as you entered Diasomnia’s Main Hall. “Care for a button?” 

Your brows shot up as you realized that he was carrying a bunch of buttons in his cupped hand. 

“Err... Sebek... why...” you cleared your throat. “Why do you have so many... buttons?” Sebek brightened up at the question.

“You see, remember when Ace was speaking about the Second Button tradition?” At your hesitant nod, he continued, “I have come to understand that I shouldn’t be thinking about exchanging buttons with the Young Master—” 

‘Oh dear.’

“As his vassal, I should be more concerned with the fact that should he exchange buttons with someone, it would ruin his attire—and by extension it may ruin his reputation.” Sebek nodded to himself, pleased with his own reasoning. “So, I chose to prepare a lot of buttons for the Young Master to pass out to those seeking his button.” 

“I... I see.” You exhaled. If you had to describe what you felt for Sebek at this very moment—you would describe it as exasperated, but fond. He wasn’t a bad person--just... hilariously attached.  

'Malleus...’

Had it already been two years since you came to Twisted Wonderland? Had it already been two whole years since you had met him in the gardens of the Ramshackle Dorm?

No matter how much you tried, you couldn’t remember how dark it had been that night—nor could you remember the exact reason why you had still been awake.

“Hm. Who are you?”

What you do know is that everything faded away in favour of remembering how you felt when you first laid eyes on Malleus. 

“Well now this is a surprise. You are a child of man.” 

Long dark hair that tumbled down to the small of his back, pale porcelain skin, and vividly green eyes that were framed by long, thick lashes. The light of the moon was bright enough to illuminate him and it made him all the more ethereal in the night. 

As you had stared at him, you felt your throat dry, your heart picked up its pace and your cheeks burned. You didn’t know—you still don’t know—but something about Malleus just left you so speechless... and in awe. 

You raised a hand to your chest, as you felt it skip a beat just at the thought of him.

‘I have it bad.’ you had to accept that much—even if you knew you had—practically—zero chance with him. 

“[Name]?” Sebek brought you out of your stupor. You dragged your eyes back down to Sebek’s palm, and the shining buttons in his palm. 

“I’m surprised you’re even offering.” you pointed out, and Sebek glanced at you thoughtfully.

“Regardless of my personal feelings,” Sebek sniffed. “I at least know that the Young Master thinks of you as an important friend.” 

‘What was it that Jack said?’ 

Jack had said it was something of a serious promise (Ace completely disregarded it--but... well, you were more likely to believe Jack between the two of them). You also remembered that Malleus wasn’t even allowed to show up in front of the Ghost Bride because he was the sole heir of the Valley of Thorns... 

‘It’s not like Malleus would give me his he...’ You couldn’t help but blink in surprise at the bitterness of your thoughts. ‘Since when did I...’ You quickly shrugged it off, before you finally nodded at Sebek.

“Sure, why not?” After you picked it up, you began to play with it in between your fingers. 

“Come to think of it [Name], what are you doing here?” Sebek eyed you suspiciously. 

“Ah that’s because—” 

“I invited her here.” At the sound of his voice, a shiver ran down your spine—and you felt the tips of your ears burn with a blush. You both turned to see Malleus as he entered the main hall. 

Your eyes widened, and a gasp slid past your lips at the sight of him dressed in the dark coloured summoning robes. As the robe billowed around his long legs, he moved with a certain grace that made it seemed like he was gliding towards you. 

“Woah...” you raised a hand to your lips in surprise. In return, Malleus’s lips only curled—pleased at your reaction.

“Ah, Young Master! You look amazing!” Sebek exhaled, as awed as you. 

“Thank you.” He inclined his head elegantly, before his eyes shifted back to you. You shuffled in place uncomfortably, before his lips raised into a gentle smile.

“I apologize I could not come to Ramshackle tonight. We were busy preparing for graduation.” Malleus said, “I thought we could walk instead in the gardens of Diasomnia... before I escorted you home. Not a bad plan, no?” 

“Young Master...” Sebek furrowed his brows briefly, but Malleus only raised a hand—his eyes never leaving your form.

“It is fine Sebek. I will not take too long.” He tilted his head; his dark hair gently fell across his face at the motion and your struck by the motion to tuck it behind his ear. You had to curl your fingers together to stop yourself. 

“Shall we?” 

-

You walked quietly beside Malleus through the gardens; your heart pounded in your ears. 

‘I have to tell him. I really need to.’ You glanced at him quickly from the corner of your eyes. His eyes had slid shut as he inhaled, his shoulders rose and fell at his action. Your heart twisted regretfully, and you could feel your eyes tear up briefly.

His smile was gentle—delicate, much like the fairy lights that naturally accompanied him every night. 

He looked so peaceful. 

He looked content.

He had once been so forlorn.

His eyes had been so viridescent and sad. Loneliness had wrapped him up in a cold embrace.

You wondered if centuries from now—Malleus would remember you. 

You doubted it. 

You were just a drop in the ocean of Malleus’s life. 

As if you could ever... 

“I’ve been wondering.” you flinched as he suddenly spoke, and you blinked rapidly—as you hoped that none of the wetness in your eyes fall out. 

“Yeah?” you hoped he didn’t notice the way that you had been so overcome with your feelings that you had to choke that out.

“That.” Malleus pointed at button that you had been unconsciously playing with your hands. “Why are you holding a button?” 

“Oh that’s...” you looked down at the button in your hand, “Sebek gave it to me. He said he was passing it out to people who would ask you for your button.” 

“My button?” the dragon fae blinked slowly. You quickly told him about the tradition Ace had mentioned. 

“Ah.” Malleus let out a soft chuckle. “Yes, I do believe Lilia mentioned it.” then he peered down at you again. “That begs the question... why did you accept the button from Sebek?” 

“Well... that’s because...” you nibbled on your lower lip. ‘It’s not like I can tell him that I...’ you stopped walking, and when Malleus realized that you had stopped moving—he turned around to face you.  

“Little one?” 

“I just figured... well... I don’t think I’d ever get one.” you said in a self-deprecating tone. “So, I thought... might as well... It’s a cute tradition anyways.” 

Malleus felt his brows furrow in response. He had easily noticed that your mood was not particularly bright. He frowned; he despised the things that would make you sad—it made your light dim. 

Your brilliance saved him. 

He would be damned before he let anything cause you to flicker out like a dying star. 

When you saw his shadow approach you, you couldn’t help but flinch. You didn’t want him to look at you right now—when you know your feelings are all over your face—when you couldn’t control the way your heart hummed in pleasure—knowing he was with you. 

Malleus grabbed your hands, and you swear he could probably feel the way your heartbeat moved into a rapid pace at his touch. At this proximity—Malleus’s scent—gentle but fragrant—of wildflowers and smoke—enveloped you, it made you instinctively relax. You looked at your hands as he gently pried your fingers open to take the button away from you. 

“I see...” 

Before your eyes, the innocent little button caught a flame and burned away. 

“Malleus, that’s overdoing it—don’t you think—” when you looked up, you caught sight of the way he reached for the buttons on his uniform.

Snap.

“I wish you spoke to me first.” Malleus said softly as he pressed the button into your palms. He looked down at you, with those eyes—

Vivid greens--but so gentle, so loving. 

Nobody had ever looked at you like that. 

“After all, I would gladly give my heart to you, my bright light.” your eyes widened, and they began to sting.

“You can’t... you can’t just do that... You’re a fae prince... and I.... I don’t belong here... I... I...” Malleus listened intently as your breath grew uneven as you tried not to cry. “I... I don’t...” you tried to give the button back, but Malleus only pressed your fingers close. “Crowley told me I could go home...” 

“You do not have to.” Malleus leaned down and lifted your head so that he could press his forehead against yours. Your eyes were too sad—too wet.

He could not believe that you thought of yourself like this. 

‘You don’t understand little light... If there’s anyone who should be unworthy to bathe in your presence it would be I....’ 

“You could stay here, with me. You could be my Queen...” Malleus paused thoughtfully, “No... that is wrong. You already are my Queen.” 

“I’m no fae. Not even a magician. Not a speck of magic in me.” your grief escaped you through your tears, “you still want that?” 

‘Volatile as I was... so arrogant and self-assured in my own powers.... but you had not given up on me, little light.... that is why... I won’t let go of you either.’ 

"Of course.” he replied easily, “you possess more power than you think. You possess so much power over me.” he whispered, and his breath fanned over your face. “I do not mind how powerless I am against you.” 

“I’m not an immortal. You... I don’t want to hurt you.” 

“Oh, bright light... I would prefer to live the rest of your life by your side... rather than spend centuries contemplating what it could have felt… to hold you in my arms.” Malleus professed. You were now openly sobbing, and Malleus pressed his lips against your jaw, onto your cheeks and over your eyelids. 

“And should you worry about the centuries after... that is alright my bright light. I will simply find you again.” 

As he pulled away, he noticed that your breathing was still shaky, and he leaned in again to give you several more comforting kisses. 

“Won’t you... get bored of me?” 

“Ah... but you are such a bright spark... I will never tire of you.” He made sure to stare straight into your eyes, “I will never tire of the way you look at me, the way you blush... the way you react when I call for you—and the feel of your heart...” He moved his thumb to feel the rhythmic beat of your heart. 

“Will you not… let me…have your heart too?” He found the button—his button from earlier—and pressed it once more into your palm, to remind you of his earlier gift.

‘His heart...’  

“...How... can I say no?” you choked out, “Yes... of course... Malleus.... I’d... there’s never been anything I wanted more.” 

He could feel his shoulders slacken in relief at your response, as he bent down to brush his lips across yours. 

‘I was terrified that you would slip away from me... Thank you...’ 

“Then let whatever years we have together... be ours only....” 

“Alright.” Your flawlessly gorgeous lover turned his head to glare at you. You had chosen to bury your head in the cushions of his bed. “I am tired, of listening to you sound like that, you’re ruining my skin--” Vil complained as he moved to sit himself on the bed. “What happened?” 

You mumbled something indistinct into the pillows, and Vil wrinkled his nose.

“Speak clearly, sweet potato.” Vil chided, he placed a hand on your head and began to run his hand through your hair. “You know how much I hate it when you do that.” You turned your head slightly to peer up at him. Vil only arched a fine brow in response. 

“You know the feeling when you create something a lot of people like?” Your eyes fluttered shut at his ministrations, and Vil hummed. “and you’re really proud of it?” 

“Of course.” Vil could understand--the art of modelling, and that of potion-making were both hard--but that made it all the more satisfying when he came out with something exceptionally good. While Vil was never one to solely rely on other people’s opinion on him and what he does to be proud of his accomplishments--it’s undeniable that there is a feeling of pleasure when others do appreciate it. 

“But... it takes just one person.” your voice went a little muffled, but Vil kept up the comforting gesture as he listened to you. “It takes just one person... For you to feel that you’re...” your breath hitched, “failing.” 

“Oh darling...” he sighed, exasperated--this wasn’t the first time you’ve come to his bed crying... specifically about other people’s opinions. 

“I know... I know... I really shouldn’t let it affect me...”  

“You cannot please everyone.” Vil scolded you lightly, as his hand pressed down against your nape and he massaged the tensed spot. He frowned at how stiff the area had become. 

‘You’ve been hunched over too much... again.’ 

“Is it wrong to want too--?”

“No.” Vil exhaled. “But you have to realise that you’re just straining yourself. There are simply people who won’t like you or what you do. You have to learn to let them go.”

“It’s hard.” Vil pursed his lips at your tired response. He truly did hate seeing you like this. 

“I never said it was easy.” Vil finally said. “But if you focus all your energy on someone who doesn’t care--you’ll lose sight of why you started doing what you do in the process. You started this because you loved it. You started it because you loved the way you could make people feel.” He looked down at you again to see that you were peeking up at him through the pillows, your eyes were a little wet and truly, Vil was sincerely ticked off at whoever made you feel like this. “Are those not the things worth holding onto? Over those critics of yours?”

Your lips trembled, and he could see the way you moved your head in a slow nod. 

You always had such a glass heart. 

You tried to take criticism with a smile, but it always left you a little more shattered. 

“Then think of the people who love you instead. Who adore what you do.” he consoled, “think about me. And if you’re about to tell me that you can still think about your critics when you have someone as brilliant as me on your mind, then I’m going to have to rethink our relationship.” He leaned down, and he watched as your eyes fluttered shut. His heart warmed, and he pressed a soft kiss in between your brows. You let out a small laugh. 

‘Better.’ Vil thought. 

“Thanks... Vil...” 

“It’s no problem.” Vil paused, “now go rest...  and when you wake up...” Your breath deepened, and you whole body slackened underneath his touch. Vil pressed his thumb in between your brows, as he, amused, rubbed off the lipstick stain he had accidentally left behind.

When the Prince turned around, he sees the way your eyes are fixated on him. There’s a small, sweet smile on your lips that immediately made his cheeks red. 

“Beloved..!” he coughed into his fist. “How long have you been there--?” 

“Awhile~” you chirped, pleased to see the red spread up to his ears. ‘Dimitri cute.’ 

“I can see that.” The Prince said, flustered. “you should’ve called out to me--so that I would know you’re there. You’re not supposed to leave the Order’s Castle...”

“Oh don’t worry about it Dimitri.” you giggled, “this town has never been invaded.” you quickly knocked on the wood of the bench you were sitting on, before you gestured for him to take the seat next to you. “Come here and sit!” 

He thought to refuse but--that expectant smile on your face made him draw closer. 

It was almost impossible to refuse you. 

It wasn’t just because of your status as the Great Summoner. 

Dimitri was also incredibly infatuated with you. 

And he knew he was hardly the only one. 

It wasn’t difficult to understand that every Hero you’ve summoned, are, on some level--drawn to you. That was primarily due to the power of Breidablik, the weapon you wielded that brought all the Heroes together in the first place.

However--you were also effortlessly charismatic--and so very kind. It was no surprise that so many Heroes found themselves smitten with you. You even had gods interested in pursuing you as a partner...

And yet...

Out of them all, you had chosen him. 

“I’ve been waiting for you, Dimitri.”

You had called out to him, with a hand out stretched. 

“Would you help me?” 

How could he refuse?

“Dimitri? Is something wrong?” your voice brought him out from his thoughts.  

“No,” he managed a smile (that looked more like a grimace to you), “it’s fine.” He took the towel you offered and pressed it against his face to wipe off his sweat. You peered at him worriedly. 

‘That look on his face...’ you frowned.

“Are you...” You hesitated as he turned to you in confusion. ‘No rather... what can I do...?’ 

“Dimitri! Listen to this!” You lean closer, and he flinched back. 

“What--what?” 

“You know, I can hold the world in my hands.” Dimitri cocked his head to the side at your sudden statement.

“That... doesn’t... sound possible?” he trailed off and you giggled.

“It’s something I learnt from my world.” you told him to lean closer, and once he did--you easily cupped his cheeks in both of your hands. Dimitri froze, blue eyes fixed on your own.

“See? I’m holding the world in my hands.” you giggled. Dimitri stared at you stunned, the blush that had calmed down came rushing back. 

“You--” the Prince stuttered and you laughed at his surprise.

“Dimitri, you understand right? You’re important to me. You’re my world.” you paused, and hoped that your words were reaching him. 

“How...” Dimitri’s voice cracked. “There are so many people who love you--how--why would you--” 

“Nobody ever said that love was rational.” you mused, “I love you... because I love you. Is there any reason greater than that--oof!” Dimitri had pulled you close, and buried his face into the crook of your neck.

“Thank you.” 

“...” you exhaled, “Silly Prince... That shouldn’t be your reply, you know..?” One of your hands rubbed against Dimitri’s back as he shuddered against you. 

“I love you too...” ‘And I will protect you, no matter the cost.’ Dimitri swore. 

In your embrace--the ghosts were silent, and the world seemed to have finally stopped--by your side, the Prince knew peace. 

He’d protect this peace for as long as he is able to. 

--

You stretched your hands above your head as you finally ended the meeting with Anna and the newest member of the Aether Raids team. 

“She went on and on about the funds again...” you muttered out loud, “ we do need to be prepared for that next focus...” You were currently on the Aether Resort--to catch up with some of the Heroes you had left in charge of it. One of your Byleths, (the female one who had come in with the Lady Rhea), had been the one who had chosen the Blue Lions as her students. She had requested to allow her, with her students, to take care of the Resort for the week... Though you would miss him, you easily agreed. You were sure it would be something he enjoyed after all.

Nevertheless...

“They did pretty good work on this place.” you mused, “Now then... where--?” you caught sight of someone at the edge of your eye as you passed through the fields. You couldn’t help the smile that spread across your face at the sight.

‘Of course he’d be here.’  

Dedue was knelt down, as he quietly tended to the the Dragonflowers in the Field area. The flowers here were quite fascinating. They were unlike anything he’s seen before--be it in Duscur or in Faerghus. They were difficult to grow because of how delicate the process was... but Dedue found it rewarding either way. He was especially fond of these flowers.

That’s when he sensed someone crouch down beside him. When he turned his head, he’s momentarily surprised to see you.

“[Name].” he greeted, in the same calm tone that you’ve grown to adore. “I wasn’t aware that you were visiting...” 

“It’s almost time for the seasons to change.” you explained, “I brought along a new hero who I thought might work well with the Aether Raid team.” 

“I see.” Dedue nodded, not at all surprised. Though you were the type of person who liked to joke around, and take it easy when you can--you were quite the responsible Summoner when you needed to be one. 

“I also missed you.” you said--with little to no hesitation. Dedue jerked his head to look at you with surprise on his face, before his tanned cheeks began to promptly redden.

“That is... I...” Dedue hesitated for a moment, before a soft smile spread across his lips and your heart skipped a beat at how tender his expression was. “I have missed you too, [Name].” 

“Dedue.” you begin, and he tilted his head in question. “I can hold the world in my hands.” The hero blinked in surprise. 

“... I apologize. If this is meant to mean something else... it escapes me.” Dedue replied, confused. You couldn’t help but giggle. 

“Like this.” you moved to cradle his face in your palms. Though he tensed at first, his shoulders slackened as you shot him a sweet smile. “I’m holding the world in my hands.” 

“I...” Dedue paused, a little stumped. He had always been a quiet person--but now, in the face of your gentle affection--he found himself... in genuine awe of you. 

It’s no wonder so many people adored you. 

He often questioned why you chose him--why you wanted him--out of all the people you could’ve chosen... He felt selfish, knowing that--clearly--there were better people out there for you.

But he had also resolved that if you had chosen him--he would never let you regret it. 

He raised his hand and twined it with yours.

“Thank you [Name].” He leaned into your hand, a satisfied smile lifted his lips. “You are my world too.” 

--

“FELIX WATCH OUT--”

He had no chance to turn to you, the next thing he felt was a force that pushed him down to the ground. When he looked up, your name ripped it’s way out of his throat. 

“[NAME]!”  

"--remember to hold it like so.” Shannan said gently, and you adjusted your hold on the sword. Shannan moved behind you to nudge your feet a part. 

“Better.” The Prince of Isaach nodded, as he flicked some strands of dark hair out of his eyes. “I spent less time adjusting your position this time. You’re learning, [Name].” you gave him a weak smile. Shannan furrowed his brows at that as inspected your expression.

“Is something the matter...?” 

“No...” but the way your eyes darted to your left and back to him told the Prince everything. He sighed softly as he lifted his gaze to see the person who held the affections of the Great Summoner.

CLANG. CLING.

Felix Hugo Fraldarius was in the middle of an intense sparring match with Lif. Both men had intense concentration in their expressions as they quickly traded rapid blows with one another. 

“Perhaps we should not proceed with practice, [Name].” your gaze had wandered again, and at the statement your eyes quickly focused back on to Shannan’s face.

“Wait, no... sorry... I’m paying attention... I’m listening.” Your hold on the sword tightened. 

“I do not want you trying to do anything with a sword while you are distracted.” he frowned. “Did something happen with Felix?” You instantly flinched at that, and Shannan’s eyes narrowed. 

“Was it your injury?” Shannan crossed his arms as you hesitated for a moment. 

“I told him I don’t blame him but... he was still upset.” 

“You idiot!” Felix had hissed, “If you’re going to throw yourself into the battlefield, then at least learn how to wield a weapon.” 

“I’m sorry.” Your fingers curled into the blanket.

Felix only huffed at your response as he crossed his arms and turned away. 

“Then he just stopped talking to me when I asked you for help... to learn how... to fight...” Shannan studied your depressed expression before he sighed heavily. 

“Talk to him.”

“Huh?”

“Nothing will be solved if you don’t talk to him.” Shannan said, before he turned around. “Lif! If you’re done, spar with me.” Felix turned to Shannan with a scowl.

“He’s still sparring with me.” Felix practically snarled but Lif moved his gaze to Shannan for a moment before his eyes drifted to you.

“Very well.” Lif said gruffly. “You’re also distracted Fraldarius. Sort it out with the summoner.” 

Felix whipped his head back to the former General of Hel--a pissed off expression on his face.

“What?” he growled. Lif’s eyes glowed menacingly, and Felix flinched. The taller man gave him a dark stare before he finally spoke again.

“Do not let them go.” His voice was barely above a whisper--just enough for Felix to hear. Felix furrowed his brows at that, before he saw Shannan walk past him--and towards Lif.

“Go on, Fraldarius.” the Prince of Isaach gestured for him to turn to you. Felix’s shoulders slackened before he looked over his shoulder to see you stand uncomfortably with the sword in your hand. 

“... Show me what stance Shannan was showing you.” Felix said, and with a flinch you began to move in the stances that the older man had shown you. After several moments of silence.

“Fe, I’m sorry.” 

“What... what are you apologising for?” 

“I... I don’t know what I did but... I can tell you’re upset with me.” you said, as you chewed on your lower lip. You tried to look at Felix in the eyes, but the noble turned away from you. His brows were furrowed, and his lips twisted in a frown.

‘Oh... I’ve made him upset...’ 

“That’s because... that’s because you asked Shannan to help you... and not me.” You looked up, startled at his response, only to see that he had clenched his hands so tightly across his arms that his sleeves were even more wrinkled. 

“I... I didn’t think you’d want... I didn’t want to bother you.”

Felix whipped his head back to face you so quickly that you let out a startled sound. His eyes churned with a storm of anger, his lips pulled back to reveal the way he gritted his teeth and the tips of his ears--red with his feelings. 

“Of course I’d want to teach you--of course I don’t mind if you bothered me!” Felix snapped, “You’re my--of course I’d be jealous!” Felix practically exploded, and your own cheeks reddened at the realisation. 

“Oh!” 

“I was upset that... I thought you didn’t trust me... I was upset you didn’t think of me first.” Felix hissed out, and you couldn’t help the goofy grin that lit up your face. 

“Stop making that expression!” Felix’s face burned with embarrassment and you were seconds away from cooing over how adorable he was. 

‘Then... I just need to prove to him that despite that... I--’ 

“Say something damn it--” 

“I can hold the world in my hands.” you said, wide smile still spread on your lips. 

“What?” Felix’s eye twitched, and his brows furrowed. “If you’re going to say something, at least make it sensible--” 

Felix froze as he felt your hands reach up to gently cup his face. His eyes searched your face and all he saw was gentle affection in the way you smiled. 

‘This...’ 

“You’re my world, Felix.” you said, sincerity shining through your tender expression--and the careful way you cupped his face. “Okay?” 

“Tch...” Felix quickly pulled his face away from your hands, but you caught the way his whole face flared red at your actions. “Just--go do your stances again, okay?”

“Yes!” As you began to enthusiastically swing your sword, Felix glanced at you from the edge of his eyes as a loving smile spread across his lips. 

‘Idiot.’

--

"Hey there [Name].” Sylvain shot you a winning smile--it was that smile of his that you adored. It was honest--no sarcasm or anger hidden behind its shape. It was a smile of genuine pleasure at the sight of you. Your heart couldn’t help but come to a stutter. 

To think that there had been a time that--when you looked at him, all you could see was the insincerity in his smile, and the sadness that weighed on his shoulders. 

“Hello Sylvain.” you greeted happily, as he offered you his arm. “Where are you taking me today?” 

“I thought a little date in the gardens would motivate you in between your meetings for today.” he grinned, “shall we?” 

“Yes please.” you couldn’t help the smile that brightened your face. At that, Sylvain shot you another, much gentler smile before he began to tell you about his day so far. 

If  there was a Hero who was much harder to win over than you had originally thought of--that would have to be Sylvain Jose Gautier. 

As the Great Summoner of Askr, Breidablik possessed a magic that made all Heroes--on some level--amicable with you. This generally just made it easier for you to talk to just about anyone.

You had known about him long before he had arrived at Askr, as the Great Summoner, you had access to all of his world’s history. Sylvain Jose Gautier first stood out to you when he had wielded the Lance of Ruin. He had been the first of his school mates to hold a Heroes’ Relic. Naturally... that had caught your attention and you began to research deeply in the story of Sylvain Jose Gautier.

As you read his story, your heart couldn’t help but twist in pain for him. Sure, you didn’t condone his actions--but you could at least understand and acknowledge the way he suffered. 

‘If I summoned Sylvain...’ you had thought, ‘then perhaps... he could be allowed to be more honest with himself... even if brief...’ 

When he did appear before you--you just... didn’t know how to talk to him. You had greeted him, given him a tour (as you always did for new Heroes) and right before you had left him to eat in the dining hall...

“Sylvain.” you licked your lips as he averted his gaze from the table filled with dancers. 

“Yeah?” 

“One last thing before I let you go.”

“Uhuh, sure.” He nodded his head, his brilliant hair bounced across his cheeks at the motion.

“About Crests....” You caught a minuscule twitch across his brow, but his (insincere) smile never faltered. “They’re... not important here. There aren’t...” you hesitated. “There aren’t any other Heroes, outside Fodlan, who actually know about it.” When you peered into his brown eyes--they seemed tumultuous. For the briefest moment--you could’ve sworn he was angry--but his smile only widened.

“That’s interesting.” Sylvain nodded, “I don’t understand why you’re telling me though...?” Sylvain trailed off. 

“It’s... just so you don’t get surprised.” you hurried to come up with an excuse, just so he wouldn’t suspect what you knew... but knowing Sylvain, you couldn’t help but think if he was already suspecting something. “A lot of your schoolmates were pretty stunned...” Sylvain chuckled easily. 

“Aren’t you adorable?” Sylvain grinned, and you could feel your blood rush all the way to the tips of your ears. 

“Ah... please don’t say stuff like that when...” ‘when you don’t mean them.’ 

“Then I’ll be off.” He raised a hand, before he immediately moved towards the dancers.

Despite your hopes that Sylvain could be a little more honest--he hadn’t stopped flirting. Be it with female Heroes (you had to restrain Hector with Breidablik when the nobleman thought it would be a good idea to flirt with Lilina, of all people) or women from the nearby town. 

You’ve gotten multiple complaints from both groups of women that eventually you had to call up Sylvain, to talk to him privately. 

“It’s important training.” he reasoned, “If I’m going to be a knight who’s beloved by his people, I have to know my way around the human heart--” 

“Please save it Sylvain.” you interrupted as gently as possible. “We both know that’s know how you feel.” 

His expression shattered, and his lips curled downward. You flinched back at how quick his expression changed, and he sighed.

“Of course you’d know.” He pushed back his hair and shot you a look. “How long..?” You avoided his gaze and he sighed again.

“I see.” He crossed his arms. 

“I thought summoning you here... you would be able to... be yourself.” you struggled to word your concern. “That... knowing your crest wasn’t important... you could... be more honest but... It’s not that easy... is it?” 

“It’s only made me angrier.” your head snapped up at that confession, and your heart twisted at the way Sylvain’s brows furrowed. “I hate it. Why... Why couldn’t I have been born in a world like this instead...? With...” You saw his fist clench, and without even thinking about it--you moved to wrap him in a hug. 

“I’m here for you Sylvain...” 

He let out a choked sobbed, before he collapsed into your arms in tears. 

Then after that...

You blinked as a finger was snapped in front of your eyes.

“Don’t tell me you were thinking about someone else.” Sylvain’s lips curled into an easy smirk, and you giggled in response.

“As if there was anyone else I’d think of, Sylvain.” At that, you could see the slightest flush rise to his cheeks. He leaned away, a little embarrassed, but you recognised that he was incredibly self-satisfied with the information.

After you had confronted him, Sylvain’s shoulders had finally slackened--and he, to your relief, became a little bit more honest (it was better than nothing). He showed restraint in who he flirted with--until, at one point, he only flirted with you. 

Quickly after that, the two of you eventually got together. Sylvain had to deal with a lot of very overprotective heroes--but it was easy to see that both of you had built a relationship that no one had anticipated.

It hadn’t really mattered to either of you. What mattered was that you had each other. 

“Hey Sylvain.”

“Mhm?” 

“You know, I can hold the world in my hands.” He looked up at that with an arched brow. 

“Really?” 

“Really.” you nodded, sagely. Sylvain looked thoughtful as he seemingly tried to understand what you were trying to say.

“Can I show you?” 

“Eh, why not.” he shrugged his shoulders, and you gently leaned forward. He glanced at you curiously as you raised your hands to cradle his face in your hands. You met his gaze evenly, not bothering to explain yourself--you knew he was smart enough to understand what you were trying to say. 

‘I can hold the world in my hands.’ 

“I see.” he let out a soft chuckle as he lifted his own hand and twisted his face so that he could press his soft, warm lips against the pulse point on your wrist. “Aren’t you adorable?” He looked up at you underneath his lashes, his cheeks a tad brighter than earlier and you only shot him a smile full of love.

His heart warmed at that and his hold on your wrist tightened lightly. 

“Thank you [Name]. I want you to know... I think of you as my world too.” 

--

"Thank you so much for letting me go help in the shopping Ashe.” you smiled at the gray haired boy. Ashe in turn, laughed nervously as he watched you cautiously. You were carrying a bunch of supplies in your arms. 

He had wanted to say no.

He really did.

It wasn’t even the deep magic of Askr at this point. 

He just... could never refuse you. 

How could he? Just the thought of how much he adored you made his heart speed up. 

“It’s no problem Summoner--” when you shot him a look with puffed up cheeks, he began to quickly retract his statement. “I mean--[Name]. Yeah... it’s nothing.”

“It’s the perfect weather to go out too.” you inhaled as you looked up at the clear skies of Askr. “The sun is shining, but the wind is refreshing. What’s it like in Faerghus, Ashe?”

“Huh? Well... it’s pretty cold. Haven’t you been there?” 

“Nope~” you glanced at him from the corner of your eyes. “I’ve been around the Garreg Mach area... I’ve also been to the Sreng Desert... but no, never to Faerghus.” 

“Well it’s...” 

You couldn’t help the grin that spread across your face as Ashe began to chatter your ear up about the territories of his adoptive father, Lord Lonato--and how the capital city was like.

“I’ve only been there once. It’s really beautiful in winter time.” 

“Then you’ll have to take me there sometime. It’s a date.” you said, and you giggled at the way he got incredibly flustered at that.

“What? But Summoner--I mean [Name]--the others will worry if I take you out to Faerghus...” Ashe chewed on his lower lip, “Lif is scary when he loses sight of you...”  

“You don’t need to worry so much. I wanted to spend time with my lover... after all... we just started dating.” you shot him a happy smile, and Ashe blushed brightly. 

“Still... You’re very important here... So...” 

“We can go with others then. But I want you to personally, take me around. Alright?” you raised your pinky. “Promise?” 

Having long been told what that meant, Ashe only blushed before he laced your pinkies together.

“Alright... Summoner... I mean... [Name].” 

“Are you still not used to calling me by name?” 

You got Ashe, you understood he had a difficult time speaking informally but--it did make you a little sad that he had such a difficult time not seeing you as an authority figure. 

‘I’m your lover first, and the summoner next...’ you puffed your cheeks up again in frustration. ‘How do I...?’ 

You snapped your fingers and proceeded to put down the supplies in your arms. 

“Ashe?” 

“Yeah?” He stuttered in surprise at you suddenly stopping him. You inhaled and looked him straight in the eyes. The intensity was enough for his cheeks to immediately redden up. 

“Summoner--that is, [Name]--” he squeaked. “Why--why are you looking at me like that?” He quickly looked away.

“Look at me Ashe.” 

The boy blinked rapidly, his pale lashes tangled with each blink as he slowly turned to you. 

“I can hold the world in my hands.” you said, and he flinched back slightly in response.

“Er... is that possible--?” His brows rise as he felt you cup his face in your hands. He immediately felt his temperature rise. “Wait--huh?” 

“I’m holding the world in my hands, Ashe.” 

You gazed up at him with determination and pure adoration in your eyes. 

The light of the sun behind you made it look as if there was a halo of light behind you. It illuminated you--made you glow--made him think that were no gods or goddesses he could devote his heart to the same way he was willing to do so for you.

Ashe’s mouth fell open in surprise, his eyes widened even further. You didn’t think it was possible for his blush to brighten even further. His hold on the supplies loosened, and he dropped it to the ground.

“Ashe, your foot--oh!” 

The young man pulled you into his arms, and hugged you tightly. 

“I... I think the world of you too.” he mumbled, and you could feel the way he trembled as he held you close.

“Aww... Ashe...”  You felt a flush rise to your cheeks as you quickly reciprocated his hug.

“I’ll try... harder... I know... It’s difficult but...” 

“It’s fine. I know you’re doing your best.” 

The two of you remained in an embrace for a little longer before you felt Ashe flinch in your arms.

“... Did the pain finally come?” 

“Yeah...” 

“Silly Ashe~ Let’s go back to the castle, okay?” 

“Yeah we should...” his voice faltered for a moment before he continued, “[Name].” 

Your heart skipped a beat, before you felt a smile curl your lips. 

‘One step at a time.’ 

“Oh dear...”  

“Shrimpy is cute~” Floyd cackled-whispered for your sake.

Jade’s expression grew incredibly tender as he watched you snore away on one of Mostro Lounge’s tables. He lowered a gloved hand and brushed through locks of your hair gently.

“Mhm... Jade...” you muttered, your lashes flickered briefly before you settled and began to snore again. Jade’s lips quirked up into a fond expression, before he pulled away. He looked at your table--at the stack of books that surrounded you. You were so very hardworking--it was one of the things he found endearing about you. Despite the fact that you could barely understand magical theory--you struggled on--to help Grim. 

“Still...” he gazed around him, the Mostro Lounge was still pretty full--and it wouldn’t be empty for quite some time... 

‘I would dislike it very much if someone else saw your adorably vulnerable expression...’ 

“Azul.” The octopus merman turned in Jade’s direction. He arched a brow at him, before his eyes caught sight of you sleeping at your table.

“Honestly...” Azul exhaled, “being so openly vulnerable this one...” Jade’s lips curled as he recognised the glitter of affection in the other man’s eyes. “I understand, go take them to your room. You’re excused for the rest of the day.” Jade inclined his head politely, before he stepped toward and gently lowered himself to speak to you.

(”What about me?” Floyd pouted, “I saw them first--” 

“You’ll have time with them later, Floyd.” Azul sighed. )

“[Name]?” he shook your shoulder gently. “[Name]? Can you listen for a bit?” 

“Mhm?” you responded, not quite awake. 

“Do you mind if I carry you to my room?” Jade asked, ever the gentleman--even if you weren’t very conscious. “You can sleep on my bed.” At that your eyes slipped open and you raised your head to look at your homework. Your shoulders drooped. 

“No I... sorry...” you moved to wipe away your drool, that Jade had politely pretended to not see for your sake. “Sorry, I need to keep studying...” 

“Oh my... you’re too exhausted for that right now, [Name].” he chided kindly. “Rest for a while and after you recuperate... Azul will help look over your studying, how about that?” 

“...” you stared at the books, before you turned your head. Your gaze suggested that you were almost ready to slip back into the dream world. “... For free?” Jade couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped his lips at that. 

“Of course dear flower. I’m sure our Azul will be most willing to do that for you, for free.” 

“O...kay...” you yawned.

“Wrap your arms around my neck, flower.” You did as he ordered and he easily pulled you up into his arms. 

“Night Jade...” you mumbled against his neck, “love you...” 

Jade paused at that, before a sincere smile spread across his lips. 

“I love you too, flower.” 

- 

When you come to, it’s to the pleasant sensation of someone running their hand through your hair. You sighed and slackened happily against the firm pillow. Your eyes twitched as you felt the the sun attempt to kiss you awake. You groan as you rolled over and found yourself pressed against something that smelt sharply of spice. At your movement the hand stopped and you let out a little disgruntled noise. You hear a soft chuckle and the warm hand tucks a curl of your hair behind your ear.

“[Name]?” you shiver--not only at how good the voice sounded, but also because of the way his breath brushed against the curve of your ear. “Are you awake?”

“No...” He chuckled again and you instinctively began to pout. 

“Stop doing that...” 

“Doing what?”

“Using your...” you paused, your eyes fluttered briefly but remained shut, “sexy voice.”

“Sexy... voice?” the voice sounded confused, “You think... I sound sexy?” 

“Hnh... yeah...” you curled your body and breathed in the scent of spice from your pillow. Your eyes fluttered, a little disappointed that the hand that had been stroking your hair had stopped moving when it sunk in...

‘Hang on.’ you thought to yourself, bemused. ‘When did I fall asleep?’ 

You remember that you had chosen to ask a certain someone to help you with understanding some magical potions homework... and that he had invited you over to the dorm and...

Your eyes snapped open and looked up to meet the startled gaze of Jamil Viper. He had a hand over his mouth and a deep red flush crossed his cheeks. He pulled back quickly as you rushed upright. To your horror (and secret pleasure, really) you had been sleeping with your head on his lap. You quickly looked around to notice that it was only the two of you in Scarabia’s lounge area.

“Oh my god... I’m so sorry Jamil--I was...” you could more than feel the way that your blush rushed all the way up to your ears. “I’m sorry I fell asleep on you!” He stared at you, dark eyes still wide. 

‘Wait, did I do something else?’ 

“Stop doing that... Using your... sexy voice.” 

You wondered if this is how Riddle feels when his face flushes red.

“Oh god... I said that out loud didn’t I? I didn’t mean to! I’m so sorry--” 

“You didn’t mean it?”

“No of course I meant it, have you heard yourself?” you frantically covered your mouth and Jamil matched your shade of red.

“Ah that’s...” Jamil coughed awkwardly, “... shall we put it behind us...?” 

“Yes?” you squeaked, “please?” 

“I... yes.” He cleared his throat and you watched as his Adam’s apple bob up and down. “and it’s fine... You must’ve been really tired since you just... knocked out... would you like to stay for dinner?” he began to stand up and you gazed mournfully at the loss of a pretty comfortable pillow. 

“Um... if it’s okay.” 

“It will always be okay if it’s you.” a gentle smile crawled up his face and you shivered a little with how tender his voice was.

“O-okay...” Jamil gave you another smile before he stood to leave. He turned to look at you and noticed that you were hitting your head. He let out an airy chuckle at that.

You were adorable.

-

Silver snorted awake as he felt a weight fall across his stomach. Silver attempted to sit upright, but after he heard your voice (protest), he paused. He raised a hand to rub at his eyes and glanced up at the sky. He squinted briefly against the bright light of the afternoon sun to note the time. He then lifted his head up to see that, it was, in fact you--who had curled up on his stomach. 

“... [Name]...?” 

You mumbled something incomprehensible, your face buried in his stomach. He exhaled as he raised a hand and it brushed it softly through your hair. You made a satisfied sound as he continued the calming gesture. 

“Unfair.” 

“Hnhgh?” Silver, still not completely awake, just looked down at you with bemused eyes. 

“You’re always a sleep, but why are you still so toned?” you grumbled, as you turned your head to meet his gaze. Silver’s lips twitched at that.

“I do work out, you know.” he said and you huffed. Your eyes fluttered close as you enjoyed the rhythmic motion of his hand. 

“Are you okay?” Silver blink rapidly, pale lashes still wet with sleepiness. 

“Yeah... just tired...” His hand moved down from the top of your head to the nape of your neck. He pressed his fingers at the space where your neck met your shoulders and he made a noise at how stiff the area was.

“You’ve been working very hard, haven’t you?” 

“I think so.” you said, voice still muffled against his stomach. 

“You think?” 

“Sometimes I think it’s not enough.” you admitted with a light shrug of your shoulders. “... I’m sure this feeling will pass. I just want...” 

“Of course.” Silver agreed, “come here.” You raised your head to look at him and he offered you one of his arms to rest on. You happily obliged and rested your head on his bicep. In this position, you met Silver’s pretty eyes.

Soft, pale violets mixed with light blues. 

You could spend forever with these eyes.

You raised a hand and softly brushed around his eyes, flicking the crusts that had formed because of his sleep. His eyes fluttered shut at the motion, his other hand reached to pull you up closer to him and you took a deep breath--inhaling Silver’s scent of wildflowers and grass. You could feel your tense shoulders slowly slacken as you cuddled up against your lover under the warm light of the twilight sky. 

“Why don’t you go to sleep? You deserve a nap...” Silver mumbled, in that tone you knew that he was halfway to dream world himself. 

“Will I see you there?”

“Of course.” before he even responded, your eyes already fluttered close and you drifted off to sleep in the warmth of Silver’s hold. 

Silver’s eyes slipped open to watch you snuggle even closer. His lips lifted into a sweet smile.

“Sweet dreams, my love.” 

“Here.” he held out the red cloth to you. You shot him a grateful look before you quickly hunched over and sneezed twice into it in succession.

“Thanks.” your voice was muffled, but Riddle inclined his head in response. He watched you let out a couple more sneezes...

While you had startled him earlier with how suddenly you had sneezed, now that he had composed himself...

It was quite cute. 

You looked up to see that Riddle was looking at you with a...

Well... if you were allowed to describe it--it was an expression of fondness, perhaps even adoration. 

“Um,” you cleared your throat. “Thank you for lending me your handkerchief.” 

“Of course.” He blinked, and flushed as he realized you had caught him staring at you. 

“I’ll wash it and give it back to you.” you promised, and he nodded--not really paying attention. 

“There is no need to rush.” he assured you gently, and you shot him a grateful smile.

“Thank you Riddle. You’re really a gentleman.” You said with a brilliant grin. In turn, Riddle’s blush darkened.

“That is...” he inhaled. “of course I am!” 

You giggled at the way he puffed up his chest in pride. 

‘Ah Riddle... you’re so cute.’ You couldn’t help but think with deep affection. 

--

You were in the gardens, Leona’s head nestled in your lap when you had the sudden urge to sneeze.

‘Ah dear...’ You tried to hold your breath, and rapidly pulled out a tissue from your pocket. 

“Hah--hah--choo!” you sneezed into the tissue. You sniffed once, then again--before another sneeze came out of your mouth. On your lap, Leona’s ears twitched before he opened one eye to glance up at you. 

“Sorry.” you said, before you sneezed a final time. 

“Hmph.” You pulled back as Leona sat upright. He rubbed the back of his head, and his tail began to swing around. 

“Sorry.” you couldn’t help but apologize again. “and after I promised that I wouldn’t disturb you...” Leona grunted in response, as he squinted at the sky. 

“I’m going back to Savanaclaw.” Leona stood up, and you blinked blankly at him.

“Huh? But you normally nap longer...” 

“Well, I want my bed.” Leona said shortly, before he offered you a hand. You’re lucky none of your snot went to your hands, and you happily let him pull you to stand on your feet. As per usual, without saying a word, the prince escorted you all the way to the Ramshackle dorm. 

“Thank you, Leona. Sorry you couldn’t sleep longer.” 

“You can stop apologizing.” he sighed, before he shot you another glance. “make sure to wash up.” 

“Uh--?” you tried to ask, but Leona quickly turned around and walked away. 

After you showered before going to bed, you let out another sudden sneeze. At that you realized--

‘Did he cut his nap short because he thought I might’ve gotten sick because of the pollen or something?’ 

Your heart warmed instantly at the thought.

“Oh Leona...” you couldn’t help but mumble. “what will it take for you to be more honest...?” 

--

“Hah-choo!” 

As you sneezed, Azul immediately turned to look at you. You gave him a guilty smile.

“Sorry.” you apologized, as you sniffled. “I don’t know why that happened.” 

“Sweet Witch, that was so cute.” slipped out of Azul’s mouth. 

The two of you stared at each other. You were surprised he had said anything, and he was surprised at how that unconsciously slipped out of his mouth.

“...” 

“...”

The longer you two stared at each other, the more you could see the other’s face flush red. You lifted your hands to your cheeks as your gaze shifted away in embarrassment. Meanwhile, Azul had scrambled to grab his fedora off his head and used it to hide the lower half of his face.

“I--I’m sorry! I didn’t mean that!” Azul declared, before he immediately balked. “No wait, I mean--I do mean it. It was cute--you’re cute--! No--wait--I--!” Azul squeaked as that slipped out of his mouth, and were his eyes prickling with tears? 

“Sorry! I didn’t mean to make it sound weird!” Azul finally got out in one breath. In turn, you couldn’t help but giggle at Azul’s flustered expression.

“Ah... um... thank... you?” you said, a little shy. 

“You’re...” Azul cleared his throat, as his shoulders slackened at your response. “you’re welcome...” 

“Uh... Azul...?” He finally met your gaze again, and with a soft beam, you told him--

“I think you’re cute too!” 

Azul’s face flamed up in response, and he began to make high pitched distressed noises at your sudden compliment. You couldn’t help but ‘aww’ at his expression, before you grew alarmed when he began to choke on air. 

“Wait--don’t choke Azul!” 

--

Kalim turned to you when he heard you sneeze once, then twice.

“That’s so cute.” He let out. 

In turn, you shot him a confused look as Jamil offered you tissues. 

“Wha--?” your voice was muffled by the tissues, but Kalim only shot you a wide grin.

“Your sneeze! It’s cute! And squeaky!” he added with a grin. Your face immediately flushed red in response, and Jamil slapped his hand across his own face. 

“You--that is--why--” 

“It really sounded cute! Especially compared to mine!” Kalim laughed. “My sneezes are super noisy--but yours is so cute!” 

“Oh my god...” you voice was even more muffled now as you buried your face into the palms of your hands. “It’s embarrassing. Please stop.” 

“Why? It’s so cute!”

“You should be more concerned about why they sneezed.” Jamil sighed deeply, as he shot you a concerned glance.

“Oh that’s right.” Kalim nodded at the vice-dorm leader before he leaned close to you.

“Are you okay?” Kalim tilted his head. “Jamil makes a really good soup whenever I get sick.” 

“I don’t think I’m sick.” you protested, but Kalim wasn’t really the type to listen when he’s got his mind on something. 

“Jamil, can you make that soup?” 

“Of course.” Jamil nodded at Kalim, before he glanced at you, “it will be no bother.” he reassured, then he stood up and left the room.

“Ah... it’s fine. I’m not sick...” you continued to say but Kalim shook his head.

“It’s fine! It’s better safe than sorry, yeah?” Kalim grinned.

“Well... I guess you’re right.” you sighed, it was difficult to argue with Kalim--everything he did was because he was genuinely looking out for you.

“Excellent! I guess this means we should host a slumber party--” Kalim began to rattle off, and you sweated a little because...

‘Jamil isn’t going to be pleased.’ you thought, exasperated but fond as Kalim’s eyes glimmered in excitement for the night to come. 

--

Vil powdered your face--and your nose immediately twitched. In the next second, you quickly moved your head away, and cupped your face in your hands as you sneezed.

“Ah-choo!” 

‘Cute.’ Vil acknowledged, his lips unconsciously lifted into a smile as you sneezed again into your palms. When you finally stopped sneezing, Vil pulled out a tissue and handed it to you.

“Thanks.” you wheezed, as you wiped your nose, and your hands. 

“This is nothing, sweet potato.” Vil handed you some hand cream, which, to your knowledge was something like hand sanitiser in this world. You muttered another soft thanks at that. 

“Are you sure you aren’t allergic to anything?” Vil glanced down at the powder he had been using. 

“I... I don’t think so.” you let out a final sneeze into the tissue, “I think it was the sensation.” you finally said, as you finished with the tissue--balled it up, and tossed it into the trash bin. 

When you looked up at him, he let out a soft noise of disapproval. He leaned forward, and gently patted around the edges of your eye.

“You teared up a little.” he hummed.

“Did I mess it up?” your worry, made his lips lift into another elegant smile. 

“Not too much. It’s still salvageable.” 

“Sorry.” you frowned, “I know you worked hard...”

“It’s fine. Besides...” Vil moved closer to your face to touch up your eyes. He met your gaze from underneath his pale lashes. Your faces were so close, you could see the way his lashes tangled as he blinked. You swallowed--you would never not to be in awe of Vil’s beauty.

“I got to see such a cute face~” 

--

Idia was completely concentrated on his game when your sudden sneeze startled him out of it.

“Oh! Lord damn it!” he swore as the Operators on his game, Arkdays, were eliminated because his finger slipped. He quickly quit the map, and wildly looked around for the source of the noise that disrupted his concentration.

When he noticed that you were looking at him, all sheepish, with a tissue over your nose--his shoulders visibly slackened.

“Oh, you’re here.” Idia blinked. “What happened?”

“I--ah-choo!” you sniffled into the tissue. “I sneezed. Sorry. I didn’t mean to break your concentration.”

“Oh... uh... it’s fine.” Idia scratched at the back of his head. He watched you let out another sneeze, and he’s suddenly struck by how adorable it sounded.

‘And the way your nose wrinkled...’ Idia thought. ‘that’s so cute! I’m #blessed!’ 

Though after you sneezed again, he thought--’Ah... I should do something...’  He quickly glanced around his table, before he spotted something he thought could help you.

“Take this.” 

You looked at his hands to see that he had offered you a mint.

“It should... help.” he said, awkwardly. 

“Ah... thank you Idia.” you give him one of your sweet smiles, and he felt his face flush at your heartrending expression. “Sorry I disturbed you.” 

“No it’s fine!” he said quickly, “if it’s you... it’s fine.” he had mumbled out.

“Did you say something?” you cocked your head to the side and Idia squeaked.

“No! No I didn’t!” You shot him a befuddled look as you slipped the mint into your mouth.

“If you say so...” 

--

You let out a sneeze, and you--at first--don’t notice the way Malleus turned to you, startled at the sudden noise. 

You only do when he lets out a soft chuckle.

“Is something funny?” you peered up at the tall, dragon fae. 

“It’s nothing much.” Malleus said, his lips curled up into a wide smirk. Somewhat wary, you squinted at him.

“From the way you’re smiling it doesn’t seem like nothing...” you said, with narrowed eyes. Malleus let out another chuckle.

“It’s...” he paused as he seemed to mull over the best way to tell you. “It’s just that... I shouldn’t have been surprised to know you make a cute noise when you sneeze, my little light.” 

“Huh--? I--” you flushed red as he actually took notice of the way you sneezed. “Sneezing isn’t cute!” 

“Ah, then you should know that I’ve sneezed fire before--” (”Wait that doesn’t make sense?”) “Therefore I can guarantee, that your sneeze was most definitely adorable, little light.” he said, with a smile--while you flushed all the way to your ears. 

“Geez... suddenly mentioning my sneeze of all things...” you huffed as you looked away, you were incredibly aware of how red your face was--so you raised a hand to fan your cheeks. Malleus let out another chuckle as he reached forward to pat you on the head.

“Besides,” he mused. “you’re such a small human compared to me... whatever you do will always be cute in my eyes.” 

Your flush only darkened. Malleus felt a certain pleasure and thrill in the way the red on your cheeks spread. 

“Please stop.” 

“Ah, but you look adorable like this.” You made a mournful noise at that. 

“What?” you turned to look at him so fast you got whiplash. “No, no it’s not that.” 

“Oh. Alright.” Azul sighed, as he pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose. “Then why are you so nervous?” You flinched.

“Is it that obvious?” you squeaked.

“You normally don’t act like this at all...” Azul mused. “Though recently you’ve looked really nervous.” You looked off into another direction, a sheepish expression on your face.

“It’s just...”

“Just what?” 

“It’s...” you inhaled quickly, “ImsorryIllnevereatoctopusagain.” 

“I beg your pardon?” Azul raised both of his brows, as he stared you down.

“I’m... sorry... I’ll never...” you struggled, “eat octopus again.” 

“...” Azul just gave you a dead stare, and you rushed to try explain yourself. 

“I... okay so... back in my world... it’s like... a delicacy.” you cleared your throat, “octopus... that is.” 

SLAP.

You flinched in surprise and when you looked up nervously at Azul, he had apparently slapped his own forehead. 

“Oh Sweet Witch.” Azul muttered, “you too?”

“What do you mean--” 

“I grew up with Jade and Floyd Leech.” Azul sighed in response, “I know all about their love for octopus dishes.” 

“Wait, they like octopus?”

“They’re eel mermen. What did you expect?” Azul leant back against his seat. 

“You’re not mad?” 

“If this was a few years ago, I might have been offended.” Azul raised a hand rub his temples. “But fortunately for you, I’ve grown accustomed to it because of those two.”

“You don’t mind?” 

“Not as much as I used to truthfully. You’re not thinking of me as the meal, right?” You looked at him in a contemplative way, and Azul flushed crimson.

“I don’t know Azul--you’re quite the snack yourse--” 

“I don’t mean that way!” he said sharply. You let out a giggle. 

“But yeah... I can’t imagine eating merman... mermen?” 

“Then it’s fine. There’s a difference between an octopus merman, and an octopus. If octopus food is something you enjoy, feel free to talk to the twins about it.” Azul sighed deeply. “I’m sure they’ll be thrilled.” 

“Oh, no... I mean it seriously. Ever since seeing your mermaid form--I can’t think of octopus the same way.” you peered at him curiously. “Is that how you felt too?”

“Certainly. There are some octopus mermen who can eat octopus cuisine...” Azul’s brow twitched at the memory. “but it’s something I don’t really want to know, nor do I need to know.” 

“Oh I see.” the two of you fell silent, before you said, “I’m glad I was able to say it. I was so worried...” 

Azul’s face relaxed, and he couldn’t help chuckle at the genuine relief that spread across your face in response. Weren’t you adorable?

“Actually... there is one other thing.” you looked at him again, “how do you think the twins will react if I tell them I’ve eaten eel before?”  

Azul’s brows raised at that, before his chuckle got dark.

“Oh... do tell.” 

--

"Go on.” Azul said, quite gleeful. “Tell them.” 

Jade and Floyd exchanged a confused glance. While Jade’s confusion was only outwardly visible in his eyes... Floyd was full on frowning. 

Azul had only told them that you had something important to say, before he sat you in front of them. You twiddled your fingers nervously as Azul sat, smug, right beside you. 

“I’ve... god I don’t know how to say this.” 

“Did you... squeeze someone too hard?” Floyd had a glitter of interest in his eyes. 

“Do you have a dead body in need of hiding?” Jade quietly asked, “we can do that pretty efficiently--” 

“Why? Why do you all think I have a dead body to hide?” you cried. 

“Boo.” Floyd slumped back in his seat, but his frown was gone--replaced with a mischievous smile. 

“We always think about the worst case scenario.” Jade said. 

“Have you actually--? Ever--?”

“No. But it’s best to be prepared.” Jade smiled, “so then, what has got you so worked up?” 

“No it’s not that.” you shook your head. “It’s because... I’ve eaten eel before.” 

“What.” the twins stated in unison, eyes wide--while Azul cackled from your side.

“I’ve eaten eel before.” you repeated.

“You ate eel?” Floyd had a disgusted look on his expression. “Eww... why would you eat eel?” 

“It’s a delicacy back in my world.” You looked up, “why do you both look so horrified?”

“I just never imagined...” Jade stared at you, stunned. “I didn’t know people ate eel.” 

“Do people not eat eel here? Azul said you eat octopus.” 

“But that’s different.” Floyd said stubbornly, “octopus is octopus, eel is eel. You can eat octopus, but you just don’t eat eel.” Floyd’s brows furrowed as if he was presented with one of the world’s biggest mysteries, and he was trying desperately to solve it. 

“I... I don’t get it.” you said, confused, and Azul chuckled lowly. You turned your head to see him smirk.

“Now you know how I felt when you just casually told me you ate octopus.” 

“Was that not in middle school?” Jade exhaled, his face exhausted, “are you really... getting revenge for that?”

“Yes.” Azul said, “call me petty, but you horrified me back then, so be horrified now.” 

“Azul please.” you shot him a look, before you turned back to the twins. “Anyways... I only brought it up because I’m never eating eel again. It feels weird now that I know you too... so I just... wanted to confess to it, and I’ll never do it again.”

“...I... I see.” Jade nodded, “it’s certainly a revelation... but I feel a little glad knowing you won’t be... eating eel.” Jade still looked so confused--you could see all the thoughts running through his head.

“Eating... eel...” repeated Floyd, who also--looked as confused, if not more than his twin. “... but that’s... so weird... and eew...” 

“Did I break them?” you asked Azul.

“If you did, thank Witch for that.”

“Azul!” 

“Jade! Are you okay?” you scrambled over to him in worry.

“Hello flower.” he greeted, quite cheerful, despite the fact that his ankle was in a cast. “I’m quite well really.”

You shot a look at his ankle--before you turned to the school nurse. The school nurse gave you a patient smile as they explained what happened. 

“He didn’t break anything. He just twisted it from climbing that mountain today...” The nurse eyed your lover. “in search of mushrooms.”

“I was very successful.” Jade nodded sagely. “Mostro Lounge’s menu will be full with them. Flower, I insist you try them.” You tried to give him a stern look, but his genuine appreciation for mushrooms (of all things! mushrooms!) caused your lips twitch up into a smile.

“So does this mean he doesn’t need to stay in the infirmary?” 

“He doesn’t.” the nurse confirmed. “Unfortunately we currently don’t have any crutches, and Mr. Leech is adamant about not flying--if you could call his brother perhaps? Or Mr. Ashengrotto.” the nurse suggested.

“It’s fine, I can handle it.” you waved a dismissive hand. The nurse arched a brow, and Jade shot you a curious glance--mind finally off mushrooms. 

“Just... make sure he doesn’t put any pressure on his foot.” The nurse said, “we’ll be sending crutches over to his dorm by tonight... or tomorrow afternoon at the latest. I can write you a slip that will allow you to skip some of your morning classes.”

The nurse quickly filled up a form, and you stopped in front of Jade. Your boyfriend eyed you in interest.

“How are you planning on helping me, flower? Floyd or Azul...” 

“It’s fine.” you said dismissively again. “I’ll show you in a bit.” The nurse handed you the note, and you easily leaned forward, and slipped it into Jade’s pocket. (”Don’t lose that!” “Yes, madam~” he had chuckled, and you flushed.) You huffed, and before he could even blink--you easily pulled him up into your arms bridal style. Jade’s eyes widened, and the nurse shrieked in surprise.

“Wait! Put him down!” the nurse squeaked.

“Oh it’s fine. Jade’s actually pretty light.” you shrugged, and with a glance the nurse did notice that you showed no signs of strain. 

“If you’re sure.” the nurse said, flustered.

“Yup. Thank you so much!” you shot the nurse a smile. The nurse went to open the door for you as you left the infirmary with a baffled Jade in your arms.

You turned your head, to see an uncharacteristically surprised expression on Jade’s face. His eyes were wide, and his mouth was slightly agape.

“I didn’t break you, right?” you asked, and he finally blinked. 

“Aa. I just... did not expect you to be this strong, flower.” Jade finally said, his lips curled into a pleasant grin. “I had a general idea since you were always so willing to do the heavy lifting... Have you always been this strong?”

“Yeah.” you shrugged. “People often told me it was unattractive for a girl though. Said something about how it wasn’t cute.” you huffed. “I worried about it before but... I’m learning to accept it about myself.” 

Jade tilted his head, and he raised a hand to cup your cheek gently. His hand moved, and curled under your chin to make your eyes meet his own. 

“I think it’s very attractive.” you flushed, and Jade chuckled lowly. “Everyday I’ve been finding new things to love about you. This one is most definitely today’s ‘new thing’~” You could feel your face heat up even further.

“I--you’re unfair as ever Jade.” you sighed, and he shot you a pleased grin. 

“I’ll make it up with some mushroom risotto.” 

“You’ll have to tell me how to make it. I can’t make you cook in this state.” 

“I injured my ankle, not my hands.” Jade raised a fine brow.

“Yeah but... Let me pamper you.” your voice grew quiet. “Let me do it this time.” Jade laughed gently.

“Very well, milady.” 

-

“WAHAHAHAH! JADE! PFFFT!” 

“What happened Jade--wait, Floyd! Don’t jump--” 

CRASH.

--

“[Surname]!” you flinched, and turned around. You blinked in surprise as you see Professor Crewel stride up to you whilst he gritted his teeth. 

“What did you do?” Ace whispered. You furrowed your brow and shrugged your shoulders. Nothing came to mind.

“Puppy, you get along with Mr. Floyd Leech, do you not?” 

“I mean... Yeah?” you tilted your head, unsure where this was going.

“Good.” he exhaled. “Get him out of my classroom.” 

“Huh?”

-

“Floyd... please...” 

“Don’t wanna.” His voice was muffled because he had buried his face into his arms. He was seated in the center of the room, curled up. Crewel had pointed at him accusingly, then pointedly at you, before he turned away with a huff.

“Get him out of there before the next class, little puppy... or else...” he had twirled his baton in hand, and uninterested in experiencing whatever Crewel had in mind, you had chosen to speak to Floyd.

“Come on Floyd, please? Let’s go back to your dorm. You could just... sul--rest on your bed instead.” you tried to be gentle as you pulled on the much taller boy’s sleeve.

“You’ll hafta carry me out.” he said--stubborn as ever when he was in one of his moods. Since he couldn’t see your face, you exaggerated your eye roll.

“Fine.” 

Floyd twitched in interest, and shifted his head just a fraction to see you draw close. With surprising strength, you yanked him upright, then swooped him up into your arms--bridal style.

It look a second for what was going on to register in Floyd’s mind, but when it did, he began to flop in your arms. It felt a lot like holding an incredibly huge, and slippery... well... eel? You snickered at your own thought as you tightened your hold on Floyd’s body.

“SHRIMPY!” he wrapped his arms around your neck in excitement, “Shrimpy! You’re carrying me! Look! You’re carrying me!”

“Floyd... I know... I am carrying you.” you said, amused, “don’t move too much because if you accidentally hit me, I’m going to drop you.” At that he calmed down. However, he did not stop his cheerful hum, as he swung his legs in the air. 

You couldn’t help but think how adorable Floyd was in your arms. 

And you were also very pleased that you had easily cheered him up with carrying him like this. 

(You couldn’t say the same for most of the Night Raven College students though.

Floyd, as himself was dangerous enough. 

Floyd, when defending you? He was even worse.

Now they find out that the person everyone assumed was Floyd’s weakness was actually insanely strong enough to bridal carry a 191 centimetre tall menace?

‘Monsters, both of them.’ was the terrified thought of every single NRC student who pressed themselves up against the walls at the sight of you strutting about with Floyd in your arms, barely winded.)

“Shrimpy...” he looked at you with glowing eyes--and your heart felt at ease as you see that Floyd was no longer feeling upset. “How are you carrying me?”

“I’ve always been strong.” you shrugged. 

“You never told me though.” Floyd looked like he wilted at the thought and you couldn’t help but rush to assure him.

“It’s sort of like... when you had to explain magic to me. It’s difficult to explain something you’ve always known you had.” Floyd tilted his head at your response, eyes glimmered briefly in understanding. Floyd had always been smarter than people gave him credit for.

“So, how much more do you think you can carry?” 

“Well I don’t know about that but I can...” you told him how much you were able to lug around back in your world, and a mischievous glow entered Floyd’s eyes.

“I’m not entertaining it.”

“Awww, but shrimpy! It will be worth it!” he pouted, and heart struck by how adorable he looked, you sighed.

“Alright, I’ll hear you out.” 

“Hey, do you think you could carry Jade and I on either of your shoulders?” You paused, and looked at him in a contemplative manner.

-

“What in Atlantis, are you doing?” Azul’s shriek pierced the air. 

“Oh... oh my.” 

“Wahaha! Shrimpy quick! Pick up Azul too!” 

--

Just as you were about to call out to Jamil, you noticed that his movements weren’t as smooth as it usually was--nor did they have Jamil’s typical grace. You frowned at that.

Jamil had the habit of overworking himself. 

You were worried that he had done so--again.

-

Jamil raised a hand to his head, and sighed. His head pounded--a reminder that he hadn’t gotten enough sleep last night. 

He was lucky that he had enough control of himself that none of the teachers noticed the way his attention slipped. 

No one ever noticed.

Jamil had done his job well--he was ‘normal’ enough in the eyes of his professors and peers that his slightest missteps, and delayed answers were just a part of his ‘regular’ behavior. 

‘I’ll have to convince Kalim to sleep earlier tonight if I want to perform at my one-hundred percent best tomorrow.’ he raised a hand to his temple, and massaged it. His eyes fluttered close as he pressed his knuckles against his forehead--alleviating the irritating feeling even for a little while. 

“--are you okay?”

His eyes snapped open at the sound of your voice, and he instinctively gave you a small smile.

“Ah, [Name].” he nodded his head, “just a slight headache really.” 

“It doesn’t look like a slight headache.” you peered at him thoughtfully. He gazed back at you, confused--did you--?

“Alright, I’m taking you to the infirmary.” you suddenly decided, and Jamil’s eyebrows raised in response. 

“You--I’m fine, [Name].” he let out a soft chuckle. “There’s no need to worry.”

“You aren’t walking like you normally do.” he froze at your observation. “And you keep touching your head too.” you bit your lip, and the worry on your expression made Jamil’s heart skip a beat. “I’m worried Jamil.” 

You--you noticed.

You--you paid attention... to him. 

“You... noticed?” In his surprise, those words slipped out of Jamil’s mouth. You looked at him, and frowned.

“Of course I did--I.. I’m always looking out for you. Now let me take you to the infirmary.” You said firmly. Jamil stared at you--a little dazed, he’s not sure if it’s because he was genuinely not feeling well--or if he was stunned that you had chosen to look out for how he felt.

His feelings had always been second, if not disregarded so--

To know that you were concerned about how he felt... 

It felt...

It felt... good.

When you pulled him into a bridal carry, it pulled him out of his stupor, and he flinched in your arms.

“What the... why are... how are you carrying me?” Jamil--speechless--now wasn’t that a sight to see? He always seemed so prepared, calm, and ready for anything Kalim threw his way. Yet for once, you’ve surprised him--so much so that he showed you such an unguarded expression. Eyes wide, and mouth hung open. You couldn’t help but giggle at it. 

“I’m carrying you because if I don’t physically take you to the infirmary, you won’t go.” you paused, “and I can carry you because I’m just that strong.” 

“That is...” his dazed expression sharpened, “please put me down. I can take care of myself.” 

“No way Jamil, you’re terrible at caring for yourself.” you huffed in response, “so as your girlfriend, it’s my job to carry for you.” He twitched, one of his hands instinctively grabbed for his hood--you could see the slightest red on his cheeks, and that’s enough for you to grin goofily. 

“You always take care of us, Jamil.” you added, “let me take care of you for once.” His flush darkened, and he did his best to hide his face--but unfortunately for him--well, he was in your arms. 

You had a perfect view of his true feelings. 

“Sorcerer...” he cursed softly in embarrassment. 

You had a way with pushing past his defenses with that adorable expression of yours.

“Fine.” he said, grudgingly. “but Kalim better not see... this.” 

“I’ll do my best.” you said, as solemn as possible, despite the wide grin that grew on your face. Jamil pulled up his hood and turned away from your face (as much as possible while in your arms). You tightened your hold on him briefly.

You hoped he understood what you wanted to say--

That you cared about how he felt--and that you always would. 

-

There’s a dramatic gasp from somewhere behind you, and Jamil twitched.

“OH NO! JAMIL! WHAT HAPPENED!” 

Jamil sighed, and sagged in your arms.

“I’m unconscious.”

“Sure, love.” 

--

“Alright, since you all have a pretty good grasp on how to fly, you’re free to do what you want.” Professor Vargas grinned at the elated cheers of his students. “Just don’t get too close to the school or else Professor Trein will have my hide...” 

Epel peered at you.

“You can ride with me if you want.” he offered, but you shook your head.

“We haven’t tackled double riding yet.” you said, and you nervously looked down. “and I prefer my feet on the ground until then.” 

Because you didn’t have magic, and you refused to trust Grim with a broom--you managed to convince Crowley to write Vargas that you weren’t allowed to participate in Flying classes.

That didn’t stop Grim from attempting chaos with Ace and Deuce though.

“If you’re sure.” Epel frowned, “It’s very fun [Name].”

“Yup, I’m sure. Maybe next time? I’ll cheer you on though.” 

That’s how Epel found himself high up in the sky. When he looked down, you immediately noticed and waved up at him enthusiastically. He gave a brief wave back, before he began to play around in the sky. He did quick, full loops that made him laugh in exhilaration. He played around, and tested to see if he could do some tricks from some videos he saw on the MagiCam...

On your end, you couldn’t help but just smile fondly at the way Epel laughed and enjoyed himself in the sky. You felt a little envious--who wouldn’t? While it was sad that you were the only one in the whole school who couldn’t do magic--it was another thing all together when you see Epel smile. 

His smile made all of your negative feelings melt away.

You could content yourself with watching him enjoy himself in the sky. 

‘If I told him he was cute, he would get furious with me.’ you sighed, but you smile anyways, ‘it’s still one of the things I adore about him.’ Your eyes wandered away from Epel as you saw a bunch of your other roughhousing with each other. 

‘Geez...’ You turned your head to Professor Vargas who wasn’t paying attention to the sky. “Professor Vargas.” 

“Hm?” he looked up, only to pale immediately. “Student falling!” You turned your head, and you expected to see the students messing with each other but--

It’s Epel!

You bolted upright. 

One second, Epel was doing tricks in the air--and in the next--he was promptly pushed off his broom. In his surprise, he didn’t even try to grasp at his broom. 

‘Ah, shit.’ 

Epel swore internally. 

“Epel!” He twisted his head in your direction and realized you were running toward him frantically. He panicked as you readied yourself to catch him.

“Wait [Name]--” 

With a hard thud--he fell right into your arms--and you only had to adjust your stance to ensure you wouldn’t fall to the ground as his weight settled in your arms. His eyes snapped open (when had he even closed them?) as he felt your arms wrap around his back and legs. 

“Gotcha.” you sighed in relief, while Epel stared at you--stunned.

“[Name]...” he looked at you with wide eyes, and an open mouth. You’re sure if Vil was here, he would get ticked off that Epel was using his face for such a terrible expression. “you--how’d you--” 

“Never mind that.” you exhaled. You fell to your knees as the adrenaline rush left you. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah.” Epel said, baffled. “I... since when were you so strong?” 

“I always was. I just... never really... thought to say anything?” you shrugged. 

“Why didn’t you tell me?” you looked at him, a little nervous. You knew how much Epel wanted to be taken seriously, and it was partly the reason why you didn’t want to tell him that you were insanely strong. 

“Well... I... that is... I was worried what you would think.” Epel studied your expression, before a warm smile spread on his lips.

“You know what I think?”

“What?” 

“We could train together!” when you looked up, you noticed that Epel had a particularly fired up expression on his face. 

“You’re not mad...?”

“No?” Epel tilted his head, “I’m happy! This means you could give me tips on how to be stronger! We can be strong together!” Epel smiled widely. You’re struck by how beautiful this boy was (thought let him never know you though that). 

“I... yes!” 

Epel gave you a sweet smile in response. 

You felt your heart warm at the tenderness in his expression--a sight he rarely showed anyone... anyone except you, of course. 

“Together alright?”

“Together!” 

--

"Mon amour, quick~ Catch me~” 

You immediately dropped the book, and prepared yourself.

In the next second--Rook landed in your arms. He turned to you with a pleased glow. 

“So you are strong enough to carry me~” he wrapped his arms around your shoulders. “Fascinating~” 

“Yeah... I guess so.” you looked at him, perplexed.

“So why the sudden jump into my arms?” 

“I just felt like it.” Rook hummed, as he tucked some of your hair behind your ear. 

“Oh well... can I let you go?” you asked, your eyes fell on the book that had toppled to the ground at Rook’s sudden attack. 

“Hm... no.” Rook’s lips curled up. 

“Fair enough.” you sighed. “If I bend down, do you think you could pick up the book and put it back up on the self then?”

“Oh? You think you could do that?” there’s an interested but knowing gleam in Rook’s eyes. Likely chance, he already knew that much about you--and was just waiting to see if his assumptions were correct.

“I can try.” you offered, as you began to bend slightly for him to grab the book. 

Most people found talking to Rook unnerving--primarily because there was always that certain... analytical look in his eyes. It would always feel as if he was studying you--trying to understand... all of you, really. 

“Come to think of it...” Rook turned to look at you, patient. “How’d you figure out that I could do this?” You moved your arms slightly. 

Rook only smiled in response. 

You stared back--halfway between amused and confused. 

“...”

“...”

“...?”

“....~” 

“Yeah okay fine.” you sighed, and his smug aura somehow intensified...? “I guess I don’t want to know.”

There were a lot of things you still didn’t know about Rook. 

Despite his... ah... love for learning(?) about other people--he was tight lipped about himself. Even to you.

“I’m glad we came to an agreement.” he patted your shoulder. When he moved to get out of your arms, your grip tightened and his eyes slid open to look at you.

Even if he was private about himself though...

You made it your personal mission to understand him--to learn more about him. 

“Ohohoh~ Mon amour~ What are you doing~?” 

“I think I’ll hold onto my boyfriend a little longer, you know~?” Your lips curled. “It’s time for me to learn about you.” 

“You can try.” Rook smirked back. 

That’s what he liked about you after all.

You didn’t think he was strange. You thought of his actions as a challenge to learn about him--just as he learnt about you.

--

“Hello [Name]~” 

You looked up to see that Lilia hung, suspended upside down in midair again. His headphones were on, he had his controllers in hand--and he seemed to be playing a first person magic shooter game. He floated lower, just so you could reach him--and give him a greeting kiss on the cheek. You turned to the monitor curiously as Lilia finished beating up another player. 

“How are you playing that upside down?”

“I call it upping the difficulty level~” Lilia laughed, as his thumbs moved across the controller in rapid speed.

“Aren’t you worried you’ll fall?” 

“Nonsense.” Lilia shook his head, his short hair fell around his face. “I’ll handle it.”

“Right. I’ll be back with food then.” 

“Please get me tomato juice!” he called out as he focused back on the screen. He floated low, as he planned to sit himself down onto the couch upon your return. 

“Who was that?” a voice on the call asked.

“Wouldn’t you like to know.” Lilia said, and the voice that had ask--Idia that is--huffed in response. 

“Could it be... your mom?” Lilia chuckled at that, but not for the reasons that his teammates believed. 

“Could be a sister.” another one suggested.

“Or maybe... a girlfriend?” 

“WHAT!” 

At the suddenness of the shout, Lilia flinched in surprise and dropped down onto the ground. He had pretty sensitive ears--and since Idia (not that knew LilV and Lilia Vanrouge were one and the same--) had the bright idea to shout into the mic--it definitely messed with Lilia’s concentration. 

However, instead of falling down to the ground--Lilia found himself caught... in your arms. You looked at him with a ‘I told you so’ expression, only to be caught up by his expression.

He gazed at you with surprise written all over his expression--from the way his brows were raised, to the glitter in his eyes and his slack jaw. It was certainly one you’ve never seen before--because there was little that could surprise Lilia these days. When he blinked away his stupor, he noticed the curiosity on your expression. ‘Why did you fall?’ your expression asked. 

He pointed out at Idia’s name on the screen. Your brows rose.

“Idia yelled into the mic.” Lilia explained with a light chuckle after he made sure his mic was muted. He bore no ill will to the Ignihyde Dorm Leader. In fact, Lilia found him absolutely hilarious. 

“They can’t seem to believe I have a lover~” Lilia giggled, and you shook your head--amused.

“--THAT’S TOTALLY UNFAIR.” Idia whined, and their other teammates either agreed or laughed along. “If there’s a god out there... please nuke LilV. He’s gotten too lucky--” 

“Does... does he still not know?” you wondered, and Lilia stuck his tongue out mischievously. 

“Well... he doesn’t go out much and I don’t really talk to him in school...” 

“Fair.” you conceded, with an amused smile, as Idia cried about needing to plead with the Evening Star harder. 

“On the subject of not knowing,” Lilia raised a brow. “I know I’m not exactly light and yet...” He crossed his arms as he stared up at you curiously.

“Oh... well, I’ve always been strong?” you said, unsure of where this was going. 

“Intriguing!” Lilia hummed as he happily snuggled into your arms. “In that case, I should try falling into your arms more often!~” 

“Please don’t.” 

“I won’t hurt myself.”

“But that doesn’t mean I’ll automatically stop worrying, Lilia.” 

Lilia peered up at you with curious eyes. You gazed back, and he realized that you were every bit serious about what you said. 

“Sometimes I find it interesting how humans seem so much more mature than most faeries at my age.” Lilia mused.

“Well, we are forced to mature faster.” You pointed out. 

Lilia hummed in a contemplative manner.

“In that case, would you carry me like this whenever I want?”

“Sure,” you shrugged. “It won’t really bother me.” 

“Excellent, shall we remain like this for the night, then?”

“I thought you’d never ask.” 

The two of you shared a happy smile, as you settled in for the night.