#floid x reader

What time was it now? What day was it? At some point, you stopped orienting yourself in space at all. You didn't know how much time had passed since the beginning of the journey, but never before had you felt it so clearly.

Clothes still stuck to the body, but for a different reason. The sun from above burned harder than in Savanaclaw, as if trying to burn everything in its path. Sweat covered your eyes, the lack of water and at the same time thirst were felt more than usual. As if in contrast, at night the temperature dropped so rapidly that after a couple of minutes you thought that even the bones were covered with frost.

Such a rapid difference did not pass without a trace, you felt more and more nausea rising to your throat. Your head was ready to burst with pain. With every passing second, moving became more and more difficult. When, finally, the forces ran out and benting at the knees, you fell on the sand - thoughts occupied only one thing. Just to ease the pain for a moment, dispel the fog in head. Falling down on the hot sand, you closed your lids. Just for a couple of minutes.

Opening your eyes, you abruptly tried to sit up. At that very moment, everything went dark in your eyes, and all the muscles in body tensed in mute refusal. Frozen for a few moments, or maybe minutes, you silently waited for the veil to fall. As soon as itstepped back, you immediately began to look around.

You sat on the bed, different pillows and ottomans were scattered everywhere. The room had white walls with golden patterns. Moreover, it slipped everywhere in a single style: in the frame of the wardrobe, on the lattice of the window, the decorations of the head of the bed, the quality of the fabric of the sheets and velvet carpets. It was scary to imagine where you ended up, but even more you didn’t want to think about how much time had passed.

How much you had.

Your gaze involuntarily dropped to chest, a bright yellow shell. It, as if in mockery, continued to glow with a soft light, reminding of an unfulfilled task. Almost gritting your teeth, you threw back the covers and stepped barefoot on the warm floor. The tension in the body did not take long, but, ignoring the signals of your own body, you walked towards the door.

Did you had any other choice? At one point, you completely forgot about the existence of freedom of decision. From the moment you entered this crazy world, you doomed to wander around in search of a way out. Did it ever exist?

Grabbing the handle, you shook your head violently, bringing back the unpleasant noise in your head. It was better than these thoughts. By throwing open the door, you startled the guard standing next to you. The young man looked at you in confusion, trying to decide what to do next. Without giving him a chance to breathe, you took a step forward, forcing him to take one back.

"... head.." the voice sounded hoarse, barely audible, but you had long ceased to be surprised "..take me to him"

"I… so, wait," the guard was clearly confused, his clothes were fluttering in one direction, then in the other.

"Or I'm going to faint right now"

The phrase did not sound like a threat, but somehow it worked, and the young man, once again casting a glance around, nodded and turned around, ready to go. The corridors merged into one colored lump. However, you were in no condition to inspect the art. Stopping near the door twice as big as the others, the guard glanced at you warily. You just snorted, looking away.

"Head of Al-Asim have been asked for an audience!" Exhaling, he knocked several times to indicate his presence

After a while, footsteps sounded and the door swung open. Behind it, a richly dressed youth appeared, his brown hair swaying slightly with movement. His eyes narrowed in displeasure as soon as he spotted you, but soon his face returned to a neutral expression.

"The head is busy, if your business is insignificant-.."

"Jamil, what is it? Guests? Let them in!" He did not have time to finish, another, more sonorous, voice was heard from the room. As you understand, that was the real ruler of the lands.

Jamil sighed tiredly. It was clear that he still wanted to turn you around on the threshold, but the desire of the head was the law. Therefore, with a displeased face, he took a step back, letting you inside. Nodding in replacement of gratitude to the guard, you stepped forward.

Immediately, a different picture appeared to your eyes. Marble floors trimmed with gold, painted carpets, on which stood trays with sparkling, polished dishes. Most importantly huge windows opened a view to the sand dunes. Lamps was hanging on wall and bright red translucent curtains fluttering on a wind. If there was a description for the word 'wealth', then now you saw it right in front of you.

You expected to see anyone, but not a young man a little older than yourself. He smiled amiably, beckoning with his hand to come closer. For the entire period of being in this world, you managed to take a sip a lot of bitter medicine, so you approached with caution. However, the person sitting in the center did not radiate the same danger that you felt from the other residents.

“Good afternoon,” you said, clearing your throat and bending over in a bow. "I'm sorry for the sudden visit."

"No problem!" He brushed off your words, still smiling. In contrast to Jamil, who was standing next to him. You would prefer not to deal with him at all. "How do you feel? We found you on the elephant ride, didn't we, Jamil?"

“It is, head,” he replied respectfully, still looking at you suspiciously. "However, I still insist on an inspection. Before you can stand a spy or even a hired killer."

He just waved again, turning to you again "You've already checked things, haven't you? There was nothing suspicious in them. In a bag there weren't anything at all!" The young man exclaimed too joyfully for your taste, but you were ready to write everything off to him if you managed to carry out your plan. "How do you feel? The court doctor said you won't be able to get up for another week!"

A week?.. You whistled mentally. This was what pure desperation and stubbornness do to people.

"Thank you for your concern, you saved my life," you bowed again. "However, I have a request."

"What impudence," interrupted you the young man whom you had christened the adviser. "Head Kalim, you've done more than enough so far-.."

"All right, Jamil. We can at least listen," Al-Asim called you even closer.

Taking the chance, you immediately knelt down, lowering your head for dramatic effect. "My friend was captured by the head of Octavinelle. To save him, I need to bring Azul Ashengrotto a flying carpet," lowering your head even lower, you added. "Please, my friend... he is all I have."

You continued to examine the patterns on the carpet, feeling the adviser's burning gaze on the back of your head. The prolonged silence began to get on your nerves, biting your lips, you figured out a plan of action in case of refusal. However, it was not needed, a sonorous voice soon dispelled your doubts.

"If so, of course, take it!"

Huh? Raising your head in surprise, you looked in confusion at Kalim. Jamil, on the contrary, could kill you with a gaze, but instead he turned to Al-Asim.

"Head Kalim, come to your senses. This is probably the machinations of Ashengrotto, how can you give a family heirloom to the first person you meet-.."

"We have a few carpets," the young man spread his hands, showing how many there were, "Besides, how is Azul doing?" he asked innocently as the brunette furrowed his brows.

"More than good," you replied evasively. "Thank you," one more bow. "I will not forget your kindness."

Like the head of Octavinelle, you thought and hoped that the agreed time had not yet expired.

*

*

*

Returning to the room, you ran your hand over the soft pile of the much-desired carpet. Fortunately, as Kalim shared, you were unconscious for about a day. So, taking into account the current one, there was still a night and a few more hours until the afternoon of the third day. You did not want to take risks, but you did not want to cross the desert at night either. You were going to spend a sleepless night and take off with the first rays of dawn.

The carpet stirred and extended the tassels as if to say hello. In response, you replayed the events of such a short day. Only a blind man would not have noticed the dissatisfaction of the adviser, his look, with which he measured you in the end. Averting your gaze, you focused on Kalim and the path to the treasure room. Despite the striking splendor, you remember little. Eyes were looking for just one thing among the golden mountains.

In a couple of hours you were convinced of the sincerity of the young man. Involuntarily, Ace's words came to mind, which immediately cooled the temperature in the room. You prayed to every possible deity that he and Deuce would be okay. Ironically, you parted with all the new acquaintances on a sad note of uncertainty.

Hearing a rustle, you got up from the bed and quietly looked out the window through the carved shutters. There were guards roaming downstairs. You would have written off the usual changing of the guard, but something was wrong. Looking closer, you noticed that their eyes were clouded, and and their faces were blank.

Intuition sounded the alarm and, exchanging glances with the carpet, which immediately flew behind you, you headed for the door. Through the gap below, you could see the shadows moving along the corridor every now and then. Frowning, you pressed your ear to the door, trying to catch the slightest sound. However, your answer was dead silence. The bad premonition again began to remind of itself, and after waiting for the shadows to finally disappear, you gently turned the knob.

Lamps were lit in the corridors, but there was not a soul around. As if the world around suddenly ceased to exist. Nodding to the carpet, you slowly moved forward as a pair in search of a way out. Looks like your journey would start sooner.

Hiding behind the columns and in the shade of the curtains, you moved slowly. Taking a detour to the throne room, you exhaled, remembering the huge windows-passages. Flying out of there would be much easier than wandering further in search of an exit through the main door.

Looking around, you slowly approached and peered through the gap. Seeing what was happening inside, you immediately froze, covering your mouth with your hand. It wasn't in your to do list to make a sound. In the center now stood Jamil, dressed like a head, and next to the same clouded look Kalim.

From the pleased expression of the brunette standing next to him, you understood what was the reason. You wanted to curse everything in the world, including your own luck. By some absurd accident, you became part of the events, making trouble faster than the speed of light.

A crazy idea arised when you look down at the pendant shell. In any case, you had to pay Ashegrotto a visit again, so it didn't matter how. After walking a decent number of steps, you climbed onto the carpet, trying to figure out how to control it along the way.

"Do you know the way to Octavinelle?" You hoped it knew.

Leaning forward with force, you flew, picking up speed along the way. You held out your hands and swung open the door with a loud noise, drawing attention to yourself. The sudden appearance had a sobering effect, consciousness returned to those inside, but not for long. As you understand, it directly depended on Jamil himself.

Seeing you fly straight at him, the young man prepared himself, but the goal was different. At the last moment, changing your trajectory, you grabbed Kalim and swiftly flew out through the window, ignoring the self-proclaimed head.

The night air chilled cheeks, the passing clouds revealed the clear night sky. If it weren't for the severity of the situation, the speed of the carpet and Kalim gradually coming to his senses, the view could be called truly amazing. You had no idea which way you were flying, completely relying on your new soft friend.

As soon as the first green appeared in the distance, you exhaled. Be that as it might, very soon you would have arrived in Octavinelle. However, when the water began to clearly emerge ahead, and as the carpet began to decline sharply, you suddenly remembered something. How to slow down.

Almost screaming in annoyance, you rushed to Kalim, stretched the rope of the necklace and threw it around his neck. Shutting your eyes, you prepared to dive. The impact with the surface of the lake knocked all the oxygen out of lungs. Your cheeks burned as if someone had slapped you.

The carpet did not slow down, continuing to float in the water as well as through the air. You didn't foresee the next collision with the floor and several tables.

Breathing rapidly, you, grimacing in pain, met the eyes of the twins who emerged from around the corner.

"Oya-oya, I didn't think I'd meet you so soon," came Jade's calm, polite voice, contrasting with the mess inside.

Azul appeared on his face for a moment, a surprised expression, but then disappeared behind a businesslike smile.

“Carpet,” you said abruptly, taking a breath before each word. "I brought it, the time has not yet expired. I have fulfilled the conditions."

"Hm?.. Azul?" You glanced at Kalim, who looked around in confusion. "Long time no see! Why are we here? I remember exactly how Jamil came, and then.."

"I hope the noble head of Octavinelle has another necklace, otherwise we won't be able to discuss further conditions," you emphasized the last word.

Fortunately, Ashengrotto, quickly assessing the situation, immediately spread his hand, "Certainly! Kalim-san, I'm so glad to see you, welcome to Octavinelle. Unfortunately, we were completely unprepared for your visit." He turned to the eels. "Jade, Floyd, could you bring a tea with snacks?"

“Eh~ I didn’t think the otter would visit us so unexpectedly~” Dropped the second twin, revealing a row of sharp teeth. Kalim just happily waved after him. You envied his unshakable cheerfulness.

When Al-Asim got his shell and you finally separated, you stretched wearily, feeling every muscle in your body. Azul was already sitting cross-legged on one of the plush sofas.

"Well.. I'm quite surprised that you were able not only to return whole and unscathed, but also to complete everything on time." His gaze moved to the carpet, which immediately hid behind your back. 'I would gladly fulfill my obligations, but due to new details in the form of material damage, they need to be revised."

“Yes, yes,” you breathed. Honestly, you didn't expect Ashengrotto to keep his word. "Then let's go fifty-fifty." Give me Grimm, I'll find way back on my own. You're not going to reduce my bounty to zero, are you?"

"What are you saying! A fair attitude is the key to a successful business. I.. agree," the man added, reluctantly, hiding behind a smile.

"Azul, leave that carpet," Al-Aseem suddenly interrupted, drawing everyone's attention. "They became friends. When I get home, I'll give you another one."

"It's true, but," adjusting the glasses on the bridge of his nose, the merchant began to speak, while the carpet, in confirmation of the words of friendship, hugged you by the shoulders, hanging on your shoulders like a cape.

Without hiding your gratitude, you stroked his fluffy tassel.

"So it's decided! Do you mind if we all ride it together to Scarabia?" Kalim turned around. "And Azul will fly back on his own."

“Kalim-san, wait, deal with issues like this-.."

“Necessary, after discussing the current state of affairs in Scarabia,” you interrupted Azul and finished his sentence. "At the moment…"

Taking a sip of hot tea - at the bottom of the lake - you allowed Ashengrotto to digest what he heard and make a plan of action. You still didn't trust him, but in his ability to quickly adapt to the situation and take everything from it, he was unmatched. You could give him credit for that.

However, you didn't mention one thing. Going back to the desert palace was suicidal, at least in your case. You and Grimm planned to leave everyone behind and move on. You felt terrible doing this to Kalim, but you didn't have any supernatural powers to help him regain power. However, this did not apply to Azul.

You were ready to bet anything - as a resident of this world, he also wielded magic. Otherwise, he would not have become the head.

"How can I leave close neighbors to suffer from injustice," the merchant finally returned to the conversation. -"With the mercy inherent in Octavinelle, we will be happy to do everything in our power!"

You did not darken the brightened face of Al-Asim with your doubts about his sincerity.

*

*

*

Crossing the sky again, but with a large number of passengers:Jade and Floyd, in company with Azul, got a pair of legs. You again scrolled through the plan. 'Arrive at the place, help if possible. If things would start to get out of hand, grab Grimm by the scruff of the neck and fly out the window.'

You didn't want to risk more than you had to.

The closer you flew to the palace, the harder it became to breathe. Involuntarily, the escape from Heartslabyul came to mind, the same sensations. The previously dark blue sky was gradually turning a bright crimson color - definitely not a good sign. A casual glance at Ashengrotto confirmed your suspicions.

The surroundings were empty, as if all the guests had gathered and waited inside. By choosing one of the balconies, you landed softly. The carpet, as if also feeling the oppressive atmosphere, continued to fly very close to you. Picking up a cat, you already knew where to go. Where everything began, everything was going to end - in the throne room.

As you followed the others, you involuntarily glanced at the tall twins. In this situation, their growth inspired a little calmness.

Almost slipping, you slowed down. Looking around the sole and the floor, you once again confirmed your own fears. Everywhere, here and there, flashed black caustic pools of ink. Pressing the cat tighter, you slipped behind the nearest column. The further you went, the stronger the chances of getting out melted.

Mentally throwing just one "sorry", you waited for the right moment and rushed into one of the nearest rooms. The carpet obediently followed. Locking the door, you immediately rushed to the window. Fortunately, the grate was not closed.

Opening the window wider and letting the night air into the room, you took a convulsive breath and with trembling fingers set Grimm on the carpet.

"Servant?" Grimm meowed, but didn't resist. Ever since the reunion, he was unusually quiet, just like you.

Joining the cat, you carefully led higher, hoping to slip away unnoticed. Guilt pierced through, but the scarlet sky and the ink that stained everything around proved to be a more impressive argument on the scales. You'd rather have another run in Savanaclaw than go through the horror of Heartslabyul again.

Unable to restrain yourself, you headed towards the main balcony. From afar, you saw how Jamil has changed beyond recognition. Like a huge monster with an inkwell instead of a head was destroying the furniture around.

Did this happen to Riddle too?

There was a sharp lack of air, breathing accelerated, and a lump appeared in the throat. A sharp wave of the former adviser's hand and a simultaneous blow from the monster shook the palace, flames rushed from everywhere. The carpet accelerated regardless of your desire, trying to escape from the fire, rapidly consuming everything around. Squeezing the edge of the fabric with your hands, you curled up into a ball, closing your eyes.

Warm fur very close did not let it completely fall apart, until the burning heat was replaced again by the night coolness.

At some point, you had already decided to give up, when in the distance your gaze caught on something dark. With the last of your strength, you rushed there, but instead of a cat, your bag layed there. You sank down wearily, clutching the cloth to your whitened knuckles. Lowering your head down, you forced yourself to breathe. You took the presence of the pesky animal for granted that sometimes you forgot about him, remembering only sometimes. Now you were completely alone.

Shaking your head again, you seemed to be trying to shake out all the negative that gradually began to burst out. Tears won't do anything for you, nothing.. yet, feeling how they streamed down your cheeks from your eyes, you did nothing to stop them. You cried for a long time, silently, only occasionally letting a sob escape from your throat. When you finally raised your heavy head, you noticed that the sky was already tinged with all shades of purple.

Rising with difficulty, you hobbled to the water and tried to wash off the remaining salt from your face. Looking at your blurry reflection made you want to look away. Your eyes were swollen from prolonged crying, whole face turned red. You again felt the cats scratching in your chest, but immediately wiped away the tears with the back of your hand. Enough with the manifestation of feelings today.

It would soon be completely dark, so you had to get ready for the night as soon as possible. Leaving things near the river, you went to the nearest thickets for brushwood, at least you were lucky in some way and there were a lot of dry branches below. When you came back, you remembered that you had no idea how to start a fire. Then you remembered that there was some kind of notebook in the bag. Paper was easier to set on fire than wood. When you opened it, to your surprise, you found inside not only your things, but also others: a tightly closed wooden box, another set of clothes, and the same jar of cookies that you gave away earlier.

You pulled out the box and opened the lid with difficulty. Luckily the contents didn't get wet. Inside were matches, a small sewing kit, a few pins, and a variety of miscellaneous small items that were useful in their own time. When and who managed to put everything? Jack or Ruggie? Whoever it was, you just had your life saved.

You used the matches to set fire to the grass, and then you used it for a small fire. It didn’t get much warmer, after all, your clothes got wet, but it became much lighter. Having laid out the second set of clothes next to the fire, which you had previously taken out and squeezed out of excess water, you pulled out all the things there, and hung the bag itself on one of the branches.

By the time you were done with the preparations, the clothes weren't completely dry, of course, but at least they were drier than what you were wearing. So after changing, you finally took off the cold cloth and hung it next to your bag. Returning to the fire, you held out your hands, feeling the flexibility returning to your stiff fingers.

The awakening was unpleasant. It seemed impossible to get used to sleeping on bare ground, but over time, falling asleep became easier and easier. Sitting near the extinct branches, you stretched, feeling how every bone in your body crunches. Sighing, you went to the river to wash and drive away the last remnants of sleep. As soon as that was over, you had a quick bite of cookies - there was nothing else anyway - and went to collect things that had dried up during the night.

You secretly hoped that the Grimm would come to the fire, but the cat never showed up. Therefore, having hung the bag on your shoulder, you took one last look at the area and headed further downstream. Over time, the vegetation grew thicker. It was even surprising how radically the territories differed from each other, how diametrically different climates could coexist with each other. As you keep walking, you thought. Why, speaking of residential lands, it was the lake that was singled out. Because of this, you got the impression that the entire space was occupied by a pond, but, seeing all this greenery, you no longer understand why.

The answer came very quickly. Obviously, the river could not flow indefinitely, it always started and ended somewhere. So when you saw the vast blue expanses into which the river flowed, you combined two and two. It proved that you had crossed the border and got a little closer to your goal. As you walked down to the beach, you looked around. Ace's words popped up in head again, with one exception. You really did not want to make a detour, after all, the next destination was the desert. Therefore, you took off the necklace from Savanaclaw, which you previously wore around your neck, and tied it to one of the branches. Bright-large beads immediately caught the eye, and therefore could become a good guide sigh.

After solving one of the problems, you took another look at your work. Standing a little longer, you chose one of the directions and went aimlessly. At first you looked around the surroundings, but soon stopped because of their monotony. In Heartslabyul, everything was full of colors, what to say about the rose garden, which you would prefer not to remember anyway. People with animal traits lived next to them, their way of life was different from others.

Now you felt like you had returned to the beginning, to the mountains. Where there was not a single living soul. Just you and nature. Surely, the whole thing was in the lake itself, but so far you could not understand why.

After some time, you saw high stones and frowned. They seemed to have appeared out of nowhere, as if the someine really wanted that a randomly passing traveler would definitely see them and not pass by. As Deuce said, it looked more like obelisks. Phrases were written in elegant handwriting on the smooth surface. They were not created by nature, someone specially tried and installed them here. Well, at least you could get a closer look.

"Dear Unfortunate Soul,

Is there something that you desire with all your being? Is there something that makes your heart beat faster?

Is there something for which you are ready to give anything?

If your answer is yes and only yes, put your soul on the line and the merchant from Depths of the Sea will consider your request. No matter how outlandish your desire is, nothing is impossible for him. If you have no drop of doubt in your heart, step into the water and swim without stopping.

If your intentions are clear, Azul will invite you."

Azul? Merchant from the Depths? Were you confused, wasn't Octavinelle a lake? This was not to mention how stupid the words sounded. Like someone's stupid joke. Was there really anyone willing to believe this nonsense and risk everything for the dubious chance of fulfilling their dream? Could this Azul somehow know where your home was? Could he help you return to your World?

You shook your head, apparently that was what it was designed for. On people as desperate as possible. You believed you hadn't reached that stage, not yet. You weren't ready to throw everything away for a chance-..

All thoughts instantly disappeared from your head when you saw the familiar gray lump of fur with burning ears floating towards the very center of the lake. You found the Grimm! Just as you were about to call out to the cat, you noticed a suspicious movement in the water. The animal itself had not yet seen how unnaturally long shadows began to curl in the very bottom. Holding back a cry of irritation and fear at the same time, you, without hesitation, rushed into the lake. It became more difficult to move, struggling with the gradually increasing strength of the waves. Faster.

Faster.

"Grimm!"

You screamed with all your strength, as far as your throat allowed, attracting attention to yourself. Unfortunately, the cat did not hear anything. Almost choking, you tried to swim to the cat, not noticing how much the weather was changing. As the sky gradually darkens, and the previously calm expanse of water moved. Like shadows, slightly slowed down, but soon changed their goal. Feeling something touch your leg, you only flailed it more. Out of the corner of your ear, you thought you heard someone laugh.

A second before the storm began, you finally managed to grab Grimm and hold him close to you. Only after your thoughts cleared up did you notice what was going on around you. You would not have time to swim to the shore. Suddenly something burst out of the water, something long and dark. Without taking your eyes off the strange creature, you did not notice how more and more appeared from the depths. This time, something didn't just touch your ankle, but grabbed it and pulled you down with force. Before finally sinking under the water, you managed to take the last breath and at least try to reach out to the surface.

Grimm! Sharply opening your eyes, you began to look around in search of a cat that had disappeared again. Exhaling a portion of air bubbles-.. Awareness came to you, and you reached for your throat. Surprisingly, no matter how uneven your breathing became, no matter how deep breaths you took, you didn't feel strange.

You could breathe underwater.

When the panic subsided a bit, you began to look around, trying to figure out where you were. The bottom of the lake was completely covered with golden sand, much more beautiful than on the surface. Every now and then there were bright multi-colored pebbles, mother-of-pearl shells of various shapes. In the distance, here and there, small tropical fish scurried near: blue, red and orange, solid and striped, with long veiled fins and short ones. One fish swam very close to you, and you froze, forgetting how to breathe. Stretching out your hand to it, you frightened off the bright creature and it swam away. Lowering your head, you finally noticed a necklace with a pendant in the form of a small shell, glowing with a warm yellow light, around your neck.

Touching it, you twisted the pendant in your hands, trying to understand where you got it from. No, you were distracted again. You were already found Grimm once, so you could do it a second time. Grabbing a thin silk thread, you pulled it, intending to remove the necklace, when a voice was heard nearby, stopping you.

"Shrimpy, doing weird things. Are you sure you want to take our gift~?"

Turning around sharply, you noticed an unfamiliar young man who did not look like anyone you had seen before. He was turquoise! Instead of ears, he had fins on his head. Not to mention that instead of legs it had a long, long tail. However, you did not have time to recover from the shock, another silhouette appeared on the other side. Looking closer, you saw another young man whose face was suspiciously similar to the face of the one who looked at you with mockery.

"I'm sorry, my twin Floyd meant to say that the necklace has a spell that allows you to breathe underwater," his voice sounded calmer, but the sharp teeth that showed every time he opened his mouth didn't let his soothing tone confuse you. "My name is Jade. We've come to escort you."

"Me?.." You asked carefully, releasing the thread. Looking at their smiles, you didn't want to question their words. "Who are you and what do you need?"

Just as you thought, the firmness in your voice didn't convince the strangers at all. To be honest, you didn't believe yourself. They just continued to smile, making you nervous with the sharpness of their teeth. Out of the corner of your eye, you noticed movement and immediately turned around to see a young man named Floyd holding the beads that you left somewhere on the surface.

Seeing your uncomprehending look, he only smiled wider, "Beautiful thing. Looks like the one the sea lion wears~"

"That's how Floyd calls the head of Savanaclaw," the other twin explained kindly, scaring the hell out of you. “Let me answer your question. Have you read the inscription on the stone above? I'll assume yes. Azul was won over your gesture of self-sacrifice to save a friend and he decided to listen to your request."

Frowning, you tried to get up, dusting off your clothes more for show than out of necessity. Even so, Jade, that's how he introduced himself, towering over you. Everything that happened looked too crazy to pass for the truth, but you forced yourself to think. They obviously needed something, which why you were going to learn as much as possible from them.

Crossing your arms over your chest, you looked at him, "Who is Azul and what makes you think that I have a request to him?"

"Aha~ Shrimp doesn't know who Azul is," said Floyd, who was very amused by the situation. However, you ignored him, continuing to look at Jade expectantly. He inspired confidence in you in terms of information a little, but just a little.

"Oya, I see you are not aware. In that case, let me enlighten you a little. As far as I can see from your clothes, you know, that each territory has its own leader. It so happened that Azul Ashengrotto became the head of Octavinelle," replied the moray eel while putting hand to his chest. "You must be worried about your friend. Don't worry, he has been waiting for you with Azul for a long time."

In other words, there was no way you could avoid meeting the head - that's what his words meant. Intuition screamed that going with them was not the best solution. Not to mention the fact that you were given only a tiny bit of information to paint a little bit of the picture. You didn't know which of the others' stories were true, but be that as it might, your staying here was clearly not going to end well. You knew in your mind that you would never be able to find the Grimm alone, nor could you ever get to the surface.

Seeing that you were not going to refuse, Floyd finally moved from his place, still clutching the necklace in his hand. As soon as he had time to pick it up. It seemed that there was a kind of "exchange" in which you unconsciously participated.

Moving in the water was more difficult than at first glance. You could not understand whether you should swim or go, or maybe both at once. So someone decided to help you out of the goodness of their hearts. To be more precise, Floyd just grabbed you in his arms and swam forward. Algae, fish, stones - everything merged into one multi-colored mass in your eyes. Barely holding back the urge to vomit and nausea when the moray eel finally stopped, you vowed never again in your life to carry toys, pets, anyone in this way.

When the heart more or less calmed down, and the breathing evened out, you noticed that it became noticeably darker around you. The only source of light was puffs of purple smoke rising from the ground. When your eyes more or less got used to the darkness, you noticed that you stopped near the cave. To be more precise, it was a huge skeleton of some animal, and its mouth served as an entrance. Whoever lived here had specific tastes in terms of design.

Taking a deep breath, you collected your thoughts and carefully stepped inside under the watchful eyes. In the cave, the light turned out to be even less, and the bottom was more rocky, that a couple of times you almost screwed up. Soon the passage became wider, and for a second you were blinded. When you opened your eyes, you saw something absolutely amazing inside.

Marble floors, huge glass windows with a cascade of fish floating behind them, soft-looking sofas, tables and chairs. Like it was a five-star restaurant, not some hole in the ocean floor. Looking at the interior, you inadvertently felt nostalgic. Of all the things you'd seen before, this reminded you the most of old world.

Out of the corner of your eye, you saw movement. Turning your head, you saw a young man coming around the corner. He was dressed in a tuxedo, a blue jacket flaunted around his shoulders, and a scarf hung around his neck. The stranger's silver hair and blue eyes looking up at you through the lenses of his glasses surprised you, especially since he had legs. The same as you, everyone in Heartslabyul, Svanaclaw, anyone from above.

"Angelfish!" He called, as you guessed you, putting one hand on his chest, and spreading the other to the side. "Let me welcome you to the Monstro Lounge, in the heart of Octavinelle! How can we help you? Escort you to your table? Bring you the menu? I swear our chefs have something to surprise you with-.."

"Yes, yes," you interrupted him. "You are Azul... right? I was told that Grimm, the cat monster, is here. May I see him?"

Your not very polite act did not surprise him at all, as if he expected you to do so. On the contrary, Ashengrotto sent a glance behind your back, apparently at the twins, who soon retired somewhere.

"Your little friend is all right! For now, I must clarify. You are our dear customer, so let me still recommend you a few aperitifs," he said eloquently, you could give him credit, but you did not lose sight of what you came here for. Allowing yourself to be led aside, you continued to cast glances to the side, looking for a cat. "This cocktail `Siren`s call` is one of our bestsellers"

From somewhere in his hands was a glass with a beautiful blue drink. When he managed to get it, remained a mystery to you. As well as the fact that now you were holding a liquid in your hands, being in the water. It was a magic or you didn`t had any other ideas.

Putting it aside, you looked at the young man sitting opposite, "Could you get down to business."

"What a pleasure to deal with a grasping personality! You see, your friend came to us with a request. His desire was to be reunited with you," Azul adjusted the frames of his glasses and continued, shaking his head in mock pity. "His sincere request touched us, so we allowed him to use his services."

"Not for free," you added.

"If you want to cross the bridge, my sweet, you've got the pay the toll," your words didn't bother him at all. "Your friend put his magic on the line, only... We didn't just find you, but we gave you the ability to breathe underwater. In addition, you were escorted to your place in complete safety. Therefore, we considered it possible to increase the cost of our services."

You raised an eyebrow, "Are you sure? At one point, I already said goodbye to my insides"

"Floyd... has his own way of thinking at a number of things. However, I can assure you, he didn't mean you any harm. I will personally inform him of this so that this does not happen again in the future. However, we digress," the young man cleared his throat into his fist. "Your friend must stay here and work off his debt. You will have to go to the surface alone. By the way, if you have any difficulties, we can discuss the conclusion of a personal contract with you"

You exhaled, rubbing the bridge of your nose. You knew that it would not end well, but who knew that everything would be like this. Grimm went into debt because of you, and both of you are stuck somewhere at the bottom. Moreover, you were somehow pushed to sign a new contract. The head of Octavinelle, seated near and continued to feign innocence.

"I'll get down to business," you decided to clarify, noticing the look in Azul's eyes that didn't bode well. "How much will my friend's freedom and help get us to the surface cost me?"

"Hmm... a rather specific request," the youth propped his chin, pretending to be thoughtful. "Judging by your clothes and other details that I learned about you from your friend.. You are traveling, am I right? So why don't we combine our desires? It so happened that Scarabia was located next to us. Their head, Sir Kalim have a flying carpet that I wouldn't mind getting. You see, I have some difficulty with flying. If you can bring me a magical artifact by sunset on the third day, I'll be glad to let you go!"

Went to the desert? Somehow convince the head to give the carpet? For three days?

Whichever way you looked at it, you and Grimm would stay here forever and ever. At some point, you thought that perhaps slightly swaying algae outside the window was not such a bad sight. However, you shook your head. You didn't mean to stop here. Everything screamed about the suicidal idea, but if selfish Grimm put his dream on the line, then you could at least try.

Before you voiced your consent, Azul, with his unfailing smile, handed you a golden contract with a pen. Snorting, you took the paper and ran your eyes over the text. Closing them, you put your signature without looking, so as not to change your mind at the last moment. That's why you didn't see the look of triumph on Ashengrotto's face that vanished the moment you looked up at him.

The current around the water began to intensify as the youth continued to smile, "Let me do you a favor. Totally free."

The strongest stream of water picked up your body, taking it somewhere to the side. Your eyes began to water, and only you intuitively realized that the stream was going up.

• Jade, like Azul, knew perfectly well how your soul lay for the theater and stage. He respected your opinion and supported your interests, not really delving into the essence. He was a little tormented by a sense of guilt, because almost all the time he was busy either working in Monstro Lounge, or looking after his brother, or assignments that Azul threw on him. If you could occupy yourself in his absence, then these are advantages for both parties.

• You have often strolled through the college gardens, sharing the events of your busy day. Just at one of these moments, Rook flew up to you, grabbing your hand in front of Leech, and singing the praises of your talent, your beauty, the way you behaved on stage, like a proud snow-white swan. With a constant smile, the moray took your wrists away and inadvertently mentioned Leona's whereabouts, causing Hunt to vanish instantly.

• Who knew that one of your fans would be the most problematic student in the whole college. Then Jade asked when your next performance is scheduled, which he definitely intends to attend.

• The Phantom of the Opera.. as in the case of Ashengrotto, Leech also thought you were putting on fairy tales. Sitting comfortably in his chair, he waited patiently for the start, noting the huge crowd. It looks like your troupe was popular.

• If he hadn`t noticed the Pomefiore trio in the front row, his mood would have been much brighter.

• Your exit was marked by a solemn accompaniment of instruments, emphasizing favorably your voice. The melody flowed slowly, calming the nerves. Somewhere in the distance, there was a whisper that the main actress was the embodiment of the famous Christina Dae, and Jade could not disagree with them. Wait in the future, Leech will most likely ask you to sing to him.

• Up to a certain point Floyd wasn`t interested in how you spend your time. Exactly until you began to disappear at rehearsals more often than usual. The mood of the second twin has always been like an emotional swing on which you have always managed to balance with amazing success.

• "So the shrimp got carried away with the theater ~..." Floyd, unlike the others, kept you company every time, scaring the hell out of the staff and the rest of the actors. It was a double shock for them that their prima had already lover, but also that it was one of the Leech twins.

• He noted how your facial expression changed depending on the role assigned to you, how you skillfully got used to and tried on character.

• Having become a little jealous of you for the main actor, he went to talk with your director, after making you happy: you will play on stage together. At first, everyone was worried about the play "We're doom!", but Floyd had all the makings of a good actor.

• To your surprise, he sang very well too. Unwittingly, you remembered Jade's words about his twin's genius, it looks like he was right.

• On the day of the show, Floyd was waiting behind the scenes, watching you come out. He saw you come out hundreds of times during rehearsals, but this time it looked different. You smoothly floated onto the stage, winning the hearts of the audience.