#pinkskytwst

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“So, who’s up for a little murder and mayhem?” Ace grinned, his eyes glinting coldly.

He was leaning against Deuce, arm on his shoulder and gaze leveled on the Prefect who was currently surrounded by the Housewardens of Pomefiore, Savanaclaw, and Octavinelle.

They had just gotten out of class and were heading to the cafeteria for lunch when their Prefect had been called for by the pale haired octomer. Of course, being as nice as they were – too nice – they didn’t hesitate to promise the group that they would be right back before jogging over to Azul to see what he needed.

Whatever Azul had been planning on speaking with their Prefect about had been derailed when Leona had sauntered over and injected himself into the conversation without hesitation or care to the icy glare the octomer was shooting him.

It was only compounded a few moments later when the beautiful Queen joined them, charming smile and thinly veiled acid being flashed at the other two while he offered a private lunch and tutoring session on potions. Which, of course, was argued against by the lion, and Azul pointed out that he had a whole restaurant for the Prefect to eat and study at.

It left their Prefect standing there confused and trying to mediate an argument that they could tell was going on but didn’t understand in the slightest beyond the fact that three of their most powerful friends looked about ready to claw each other’s eyes out.

A situation that, regrettably, had become more common as their Prefect saved and won over the various princes, celebrities, and rich heirs that ran their school.

A situation that Ace had finally decided they needed to snuff out before anyone else got any bright ideas about the Prefect.

Their Prefect.

“Lilia-sama would be most displeased if I was expelled for being caught exterminating troublesome students.” Sebek admitted begrudgingly, though his expression very clearly stating that he was almost willing to risk it.

“Then we just won’t get caught.” Epel grinned nastily, pounding his fist into his palm, sharing Ace’s blood lust eagerly and more than willing to make his Housewarden disappear.

“It’ll be a long list.” Deuce pointed out, his own brow furrowed, arms crossed, and he had the same look in his eyes that he got when he slipped into his old delinquent ways. “We’ll need an alibi and a way to hide the bodies.”

Jack heaved a sigh, his ears remained pointed in the direction of their Prefect and the three Housewardens.

“We’re not killing anyone, guys.” He said, though his tone indicated that he was saying this more because it was against the rules rather than a lack of desire to go through with it.

“Haaah,” Ace glared as he leaned around Deuce to turn his focus on the wolf. “And what do you suggest then? Keep letting these assholes throw themselves at the Prefect until one of them manages to trick them into something?” he demanded.

“They wouldn’t-“ but Jack cut off when all four boys turned their own looks of disbelief on him.

“The only one that didn’t hurt or try to kill them was Kalim and he only gets a pass because he was brainwashed at the time.” Epel said firmly, fists clenched tightly.

“Yeah, and I’m still pissed that he stood up for the asshole when Jamil literally BRAINWASHED the Prefect.” Deuce glared, shoulders tense at the memory.

“They don’t get to just apologize and then act like nothing happened and try to get into their pants.” Ace said darkly.

Jack glared at the red head but couldn’t help looking back to how Leona was now leaning on the Prefect, fingers tucking a strand of hair behind their ear and smirking at the confused blush on the human’s face.

Those same fingers had almost turned their friend to dust.

He didn’t even think Leona had even properly apologized about it either, just took the beating they got during Magift and acted like that made them even.

The wolf looked to Sebek.

“You’re okay with this? Malleus wouldn’t exactly be happy if you interfered with him trying to win the Prefect over.” He pointed out, which was absolutely true, and something that the half-fae had almost had a mental breakdown over when they found out that the Prefect’s ‘friend’ Tsunotarou was, in fact, his beloved Waka-sama.

The green haired male shifted, his expression torn as he clearly struggled between his loyalty to his liege and…his feelings for the Prefect.

Feelings that the others of their group shared but had never dared to voice. Not when their Prefect needed their unwavering support and the possibility of a romantic relationship with them wasn’t worth the possible awkwardness or ripping away the safety the magic-less human felt with them.

“While I believe Waka-sama would be only the best of partners, I…I am not convinced that it is what the Prefect wishes for.” He finally admitted, swallowing harshly and clearly feeling like he was betraying Malleus with such words somehow. “And if the Prefect does not wish for the relationship then it would only harm Waka-sama should it continue.”

And the Prefect really hadn't ever spoken of their fae-prince friend as anything more than a friend.

In fact, they seemed completely oblivious to the attentions from everyone around them, or at least oblivious to the type of feelings they were inspiring.

Maybe their world expressed such emotions differently, or maybe it was just their dumb little Prefect being their normal dumb little self too willing to see all the great things about others but never their own.

The Prefect didn’t notice the eyes that followed them. Didn’t see the want and desire on clear display. Didn’t catch just how willing they all were to play dirty if it meant winning them for their own.

Like a prize from a game.

Well Ace was a master at games and he was also very willing to cheat.

They had all been accepted to NRC for a reason, after all.

“The point, Jack, is that we can’t trust any of them.” Ace said darkly, gaze flicking back over to where their Prefect had still not managed to extricate themself from the posturing and focused attentions of the three Housewardens.

“Or do you want to risk what they could do to the Prefect if they manage to force them into a relationship? How much do you trust that prince of yours, because I can tell ya, I’ll ‘off’ Riddle’s head myself before I let that tyrant bastard force his perfectionist bullshit on them more than he already does. You know he actually uses every rule he can to touch them? Adjusting their clothes and hair even when nothing’s wrong? Even Trey has been pushing it. He just had to show the Prefect the right way to mix batter so he could practically molest them!”

Deuce nodded in confirmation.

“The Prefect was very uncomfortable and we managed to drag them away from the kitchen but Trey-senpai and Cater-senpai are sneakier than you’d expect.”

The pale haired therianthrope shifted, tail swaying tensely behind him in clear agitation as he watched the way his own leader was getting into their Prefect’s personal space despite the smaller human clearly being uncomfortable about it.

Come to think of it, their Prefect had become less tactile recently when around others. Only reaching out to their fellow first years when their small group was in Ramshackle or away from prying eyes.

Jack didn’t remember the other students – especially the Housewardens – being so eager to touch others until the Prefect was there, and then suddenly they all stood a little too close and touched just a little too long for it to be comfortable or casual.

If it was happening and the Prefect just didn’t feel like they could say anything about it…if they felt afraid to say something about it to the very influential, very powerful upperclassmen…

The last bit of hesitation was swept away as he watched Leona continued to hang off the Prefect as their human gave awkward apologies and tried to leave, only finally giving in and letting go when they promised to come by to visit later. A clear attempt to escape the current situation and not a real desire to spend more time with the lion.

He watched the Prefect’s shoulders remain tense and expression strained until their gaze fell on the group. Instantly it was all wiped away. Their eyes lit up and a smile bloomed on their face as they picked up their pace to jog over to them. He watched the three Housewardens’s gazes remain on the Prefect, following their steps.

“Alright, I’m in.” he said softly, earning sharp nods from Sebek and Deuce while Ace and Epel flashed vicious grins.

“Hey guys! You didn’t have to wait for us!” the Prefect beamed as they reached them, Grim grumpily moving from their arms to their shoulders where he couldn’t sit before because of Leona.

“Yeah right, Ace and Deuce would eat everything before you got back if we didn’t.” Epel laughed, his viciousness from before no where in sight as he hooked his arm with the Prefect’s and started tugging them towards the cafeteria.

They all settled around them as they walked, falling into a comfortable pattern that Jack hadn’t even realized they had taken up. One that kept the Prefect safely in the middle where they were protected from any of the students that got it in their heads that they could try to still bully their friend…but he realized that maybe the others had started to do it to keep others away as well.

As Ace slung his arm around the Prefect’s shoulders – dislodging Grim and making the feline tumble into his partner’s arms with a curse – and how they were relaxed and their laughter bright instead of forced…Jack allowed his own doubts to disappear and he shared a glance with Sebek. The half-fae’s gaze told him that even though he had his duties and loyalty to his prince…he was willing to do what he had to, to protect their friend.

If the fanatic knight thought the situation serious enough to risk his position or prince’s favor…well Jack didn’t think there was any greater indicator that it was the right choice.

And he knew there were no others that he trusted more than Grim, Ace, Deuce, Epel, and Sebek to have the Prefect’s best interest at heart.

-

The next couple of days went by normally, though the first years did more to stay at the Prefect’s side and try to hinder any of the other students – especially the upper classmen – from having time alone with them. Ace, Deuce, and Sebek were surprisingly the best at this, easily playing ignorant to what the older ones were wanting and coming up with excuses to drag the Prefect away or remain stubbornly at their side.

They also planned and began taking steps to ensure that the unwanted attention and focus would stop, doing their best to keep it secret. Especially from the Prefect.

Some of the other upper classmen might have noticed, though, as a few were getting more and more brazen about their attempts. The eel twins were a couple of them, along with Jamil.

Thankfully, the one time Floyd and Jade had managed to corner the Prefect, Jack was with them and while the two eelmers weren’t afraid of Jack in the slightest, he stood a better chance of acting as a barrier to them than the humans of their group.

Jade’s smile had been as placid as ever – though his eyes sparked daggers – but Floyd made no attempt to hide the urge he was feeling to rip Jack’s throat out with his teeth.

The Prefect had promised they would see the twins at work before snagging Jack’s wrist and dragging him away as fast as they could.

“Man…Floyd’s really in a bad mood today.” They muttered wiping the nervous sweat from their brow when they finally turned enough corners that it didn’t feel like the two’s mirrored heterochrome eyes were following them.

“Thanks for staying with me, Jack. I know those two can be a bit intense.” They admitted sheepishly, turning an open and grateful expression up at him that made the wolf’s heart skip a beat as it always did.

“It’s fine. I’m not afraid of them.” He answered, feeling his chest warm when the Prefect let their hold shift to his hand to intertwine their fingers and began swinging it between them absently.

“Well you’re definitely braver than me.” They chuckled. “I mean, I know they wouldn’t do anything really bad but man, Floyd really doesn’t know his own strength sometimes.”

Jack’s expression hardened. “Has he hurt you before?”

“Hm? Oh, no, not really.” They said quickly. “I mean, not on purpose at least. He’s just really strong and I don’t think he realizes that humans are a lot squishier than merfolk.” They chuckled. “Sometimes he can get a little rough when he picks me up and stuff be he always apologizes and carries me around to make up for it.”

“I see.” Jack muttered, tail flicking back and forth in agitation.

The Prefect watched him for a moment, their expression turning concerned.

“Are you okay, Jack? Is something wrong?” they asked worried, their hand squeezing his lightly in reassurance. “You know you can tell me if something’s bothering you, right? I know I don’t have magic like you guys but I’ll help any way I can.”

The wolf’s ears twitched slightly before he stopped and promptly hauled the Prefect up to sit on his forearm, his other hand steadying against their waist.

“If you ever need someone to carry you just ask me or Sebek. We won’t mind.” He said simply as the Prefect blinked owlishly at him, a light blush dusting their cheeks.

“O-oh…okay.” They said, clearing their throat a little and looking away quickly.

“About time!” Ace called, causing them to look up to where Ace, Epel, and Sebek were waiting for them at the breakoff walkway that lead up to Ramshackle. “We’ve been waiting so long Deuce and Grim just decided to go and grab the snacks without us and meet us there.” He grinned.

“Hi, guys.” The Prefect smiled, giving a little wave.

“HUMAN! WHY IS JACK CARRYING YOU!? ARE YOU HURT!?” Sebek demanded, stepping over to them quickly and ignoring how they tried to ease his concern.

“I’m alright, really, Seb,” they chuckled as the half-fae began moving their limbs around a turning their head to make sure they didn’t have any obvious injuries. “Jack just offered to carry me since Floyd has kind of been in a bad mood.”

Ace rolled his eyes in disgust. “I swear, that psycho probably has bodies stashed somewhere to chew on when he gets hungry.” He snorted before grinning up at the Prefect as they turned and started making their way towards the more secluded dorm. “But don’t worry about him! We’ve got a movie night ahead of us!” he said pleased with himself as he pulled his bag off his shoulder and around the front so he could dig inside.

“My brother sent me some of our movies from home so I’ve got a great selection to choose from now.” He said pleased with himself as he pulled out a handful of cases to flash at them.

“Oh, cool! What did he send?” the Prefect asked, reaching down to accept the ones Ace passed up to them, not bothered by Jack still carrying them and just shifting their weight a little more against his shoulder so they could look through the movies without losing balance.

There were actually a good range of genres and the red head had even more still in his bag so they were all pretty excited to get to watch them. Sebek hadn’t seen any of them – stage theater being more common in Briar Valley - and there were some even Epel hadn’t gotten to watch yet. Jack had seen all but one, but insisted he didn’t have any problem with watching some over. Especially if the others would like them.

Once they reached Ramshackle, the Prefect let them in and they all began working together to rearrange the front room how they always did when they had sleep overs.

Mattresses from unused bedrooms upstairs had been brought down and kept in one of the side closets, ready to be pulled out and pushed together in front of the fireplace. They moved the couches out of the way and shoved the coffee table to the side but close enough to put their snacks on and situate the laptop that Ace always brought to watch the movies on.

Epel and Ace helped the Prefect bring down the many blankets and pillows that they kept clean just in case any of them wanted to stay the night outside of weekends while Sebek got the fire sorted and put the grate up around it.

Grim and Ace were active sleepers and after they had almost rolled over into the flames more than once – despite there being plenty of room between them – and the group had quickly learned to not forget it.

By the time Deuce and Grim returned, the room was all set and they were all changing into their pajamas, the Prefect running upstairs to grab theirs.

“Did you get what we needed?” Epel asked the blue haired boy while Ace and Grim pulled out the snacks to set out and get the popcorn started.

Deuce nodded, a sharp, pleased grin pulling on his lips as he flashed his phone.

“You’d be surprised what people say around you when they think you’re an idiot.” He shrugged.

There were certain societal things that Deuce didn’t understand or catch onto. It was something he shared with Sebek. But he hadn’t been a delinquent for years, broke the law without getting caught, and then get accepted into the most prestigious school for magic users without his own skills and acumen.

Many forgot about that though, and saw him not getting jokes or struggling with dyslexia and assumed he was an idiot.

The lavender haired boy quickly took the phone and began copying all the information, pictures, and videos over to his own and then making another copy to keep on a memory card for backup.

“I really wouldn’t.” he snorted with derision. “People underestimate me all the time because of how I look.” He pointed out, earning a comforting pat on the shoulder from Jack.

The Pomefiore boy flashed the wolf a smile before returning to his work. “Besides, it works in our favor. I was able to get what I needed too. Ace already got me his.” He explained, earning a nod from them.

Jack crossed his arms over his chest, purposefully listening for the sound of the Prefect’s footsteps heading downstairs again. They didn’t want to worry the stressed dimension traveler more than they already were. He might not have really liked having to take sneaky measures to keep their human safe, but he certainly didn’t want to do it in a way that would just add to the Prefect’s problems.

His tail swished tensely as he went over his own part of the plan.

“I did what you said. I think I made it sound natural, but Ruggie might be on to me.” He admitted.

Ace snorted as he returned to the room with Grim on his shoulder while he and Sebek carried large bowls of popcorn.

“Don’t worry about Bucchi.” He waved off the concern. “He might dance to Leona’s tune but he won’t put himself in a position of risk. Not after how close it all went to shit the last time he put faith in someone.” Ace understood Ruggie better than most, after all, seeing the same sharp selfishness and willingness to drop anyone at a moment’s notice should it benefit him.

He also saw the same greed and desire in his eyes but the difference was that Ace was willing to do something about it where Ruggie stayed to the shadows and only made moves when it couldn’t fall back on him.

He was smart, but a coward.

Ace knew he wasn’t a threat no matter how much Ruggie might want the Prefect for himself, or be willing to help Leona if it meant he would share them.

“Worry about the hyena?” Grim asked, brow furrowing from where he dropped down onto the mattress pallet beside Epel. “Why would we care about what that dog is up to?”

“Hyenas are actually closer to fel-“ “Jack, no one cares.” Ace rolled his eyes, though his tone didn’t hold the acid it did when he insulted anyone outside their group.

Jack shot him a glare but didn’t bother arguing back and just accepted when the red head pushed the large bowl into his hands.

“We’re setting up a plan to get everyone off of your henchman’s back.” Ace explained to the monster, who’s ears perked up instantly.

“Oh, yeah? Count me in!” he said instantly, actually pausing from where he had started to root around in the candy bag. “Those guys are getting way too close to my human! They all act like I’m a stupid cat that doesn’t see what they’re trying to get away with!” he snapped, electric blue eyes narrowing as his forked tail sliced through the air.

“Exactly.” Ace nodded, his grin widening and gaining a dangerous sharpness that Jack only ever saw on predators stalking their prey. “We’re going to fix that.”

“Uh huh.” Grim said dryly, leveling a knowing look on the red head. “I’m all for it but why should I trust you guys when you want the same thing as them?”

Epel actually threw his head back at that and laughed while Deuce and Sebek looked thoroughly shocked and Ace seemed somewhat impressed.

“Because, Grim,” Jack said seriously as the others recovered.

He had suspected that Grim realized more than he was letting on.

“We love the Prefect and you know we would do anything for them.” His tone even despite the somewhat embarrassing admittance. “We were willing to wait and let the Prefect decide what they wanted for themselves, but the others…they aren’t going to be patient forever and some are already trying to use underhanded means to force them into something they don’t want.”

“JACK IS CORRECT! IT IS UNACCEPTABLE!” Sebek declared angrily, taking a moment to settle his voice down a little when Deuce tapped him lightly on the wrist to let him know his volume was louder than he intended. “If the Prefect liked any of them in a romantic way it would be different.” He added, spine straight and eyes narrowed dangerously. “But they do not, as is obvious in their actions, and yet the filth proceed to force themselves on our friend! We will stand for it no longer!”

“The point is, Grim,” Ace said with a nod to Sebek’s words. “Is that you know we would never force the Prefect to do anything they didn’t want to do. As long as they are here, though, they are going to be a target. They attract people even when they don’t mean to. It’s just the kind of person they are. Especially in this place. You can’t protect them on your own, so you’ve got to make a choice. Help us keep them safe, or risk any or all of the others managing to hurt them again.”

“Do you trust them or us?” Epel asked, finally finished with the phone and handing it back to Deuce.

“Who does the Prefect trust?” the blue haired boy added as a final point.

The monster took a long moment as he eyed each of them in turn, clearly debating seriously over what they were saying and what might come from this. He wasn’t human, wasn’t any of the humanoid races that were even similar to his henchman. There was quite a bit of human-humanlike society that he didn’t understand and didn’t want to understand.

But if there was one thing that monsters did know it was greed and gluttony. Always wanting more. Always wanting what they didn’t have.

He saw that same look in the students of NRC and it was all leveled at his partner.

His henchman.

“I’ll agree to this with the condition that you understand that the Prefect belongs to me. You do whatever you’re planning, have whatever weird human relationship with them that you want, but they are mine and you are not going to be trying to replace me.” He said lowly, a growl in the back of his throat and sharp teeth glinting in the low light.

For an instant, the image of raging blue fire and screams of agony and fear flashed through Jack’s brain but was gone as fast as it came.

Sometimes he forgot just how little they knew of Grim and what he could ultimately be capable of.

Ace didn’t seem to care, though, and just met the dangerous smile with his own.

“You stop trying to cockblock us and you’ve got yourself a deal.” He chuckled lowly, causing Jack to sputter and Sebek to let out an awkward squawk and began babbling denials in a language that none of them understood.

Grim’s nose wrinkled but he finally snorted and looked away. “Gross, but fine.” He said before leveling that heavy gaze on the red head once more. “But if any of you try something my henchman doesn’t want or like I’ll roast you myself.”

Jack absolutely believed him.

Ace’s grin didn’t waver and Epel flashed one of his brilliant, completely fake smiles that Vil forced him to practice in the mirror.

“Wonderful, then we’re all in agreement!” he said cheerfully.

“Agreement for what?” the Prefect’s voice interrupted them and Jack couldn’t help but tense, the fur on his tail puffing up as he had been so distracted by Grim’s words that he hadn’t continued to listen for their return.

“Sorry I took so long, I wanted to clean up a bit before changing.” They admitted sheepishly.

“Oh! We think we should start with the scifi trilogy.” Ace said without skipping a beat, any of the earlier emotions wiped clean from his smile. “The superhero series is like, insanely long so we should probably start that last.”

The Prefect hopped down the last few steps eagerly with their own smile as they threw themself into the mass of blankets and pillows with a laugh.

“That sounds great! That’s the one with the cool light up swords, right?” they beamed, gathering Grim in their arms and settling themself down between Jack and Epel.

“Yup! They’re super cool and manly!” Epel met their excitement as they all settled into their cuddle pile to start the movie.

When they were finally situated, Jack was leaning back against the couch with his legs draped over Deuce’s hip – who preferred laying down while watching movies together – with the Prefect laying back against his shoulder while snuggled into Epel’s lap.

Ace was draped over the lavender haired boy’s shoulders comfortably with his chin resting near his neck, while Sebek – who’s knight training made it difficult to feel at east unless he was able to react in a moment’s notice – was on Jack’s other side where he could lean against him but was also not held down and was positioned between them and the doors and windows.

The Prefect absently ran their fingers through Deuce’s hair where his pillow was laying on Epel’s outstretched legs at their hip, while their other hand idly brushed up and down Grim’s back where he was curled up contently in their lap and munching on the popcorn.

The movies were good, but they didn’t really matter in the end as the group just basked in the feeling of comfort and warmth that only ever felt complete when they were all together.

It was a feeling that hung heavy around them even when most of them had fallen asleep during the third film.

Sebek had to help Ace cover the others up from where they had all migrated into laying positions on the mattresses, tangled together so that it was difficult to tell where one ended and another began.  

The red head took the time for one last chance to take in how cute the Prefect looked curled into Jack’s chest with Epel plastered to their back and his nose buried into their neck while Deuce’s arm was thrown haphazardly over them. With Grim sprawled out near the Prefect’s head and Sebek sleeping with his back pressed against Jack’s and facing the door and windows as always – his sheathed sword in easy reach – he couldn’t help but admit that it made his heart flutter with feelings he didn’t even think himself capable of.

Yes, he decided.

This was how things were meant to be.

And they were going to make sure it stayed that way.

Grabbing his shoes, he silently slipped them back on and tucked his phone into his pocket before tiptoeing towards the door. He nodded at Sebek – who’s near glowing eyes tracked his movements before returned it in silent understanding – and then slipped out into the darkness.

The upperclassmen were going to find out exactly what happened to anyone that threatened what they had. Threatened their Prefect. Threatened any of them.

Ace knew better than to risk what he cared about, and he didn’t play fair.

None of them did.

And he was willing to do more than just draw blood.

=========================

Hope you guys like it! I might be continuing this but I can't promise, it'll depend on if I can come up with the next part and make it work how I want or not.

<3

They were all powerful, all skilled and talented in their own ways and none of them could ever claim to be ‘harmless’, but on the list of physically dangerous, Jamil was listed high. He had been trained since a child to be able to fight off adult assassins and excelled at it despite the few times he had been forced to show it.

When you took in Snake Whisper he pretty much jumped to the top.

Being able to control anyone just by meeting their gaze and having the mental ability to utilize it properly, well, despite how intimidating the twins and Malleus could be, no one dared to let their guard down around the Scarabia Vice-Housewarden.

So, when the news of the retainer/bodyguard being sent to the hospital wing because of a potions class ‘gone wrong’ – a class he was highly capable in – and then for that news to explode with the knowledge that Jamil’s face had been injured and his eyes mostly destroyed…

They all began watching each other’s houses even more closely.

The Prefect visited Kalim, who remained steadfast at his best friend’s bedside, and brought him food that he could at least know was safe to eat while he waited for Jamil to recover.

The heir was heartbroken when they learned that Jamil would never be able to see again even with all the magical healing they were using that had saved his life, but he promised the Prefect that the other would never have to worry. Kalim would take care of him, make sure he never wanted for anything.

He was alive and that was what mattered to Kalim.

The Prefect shared an embrace with the usually bright young man and promised that they would help any way they could.

Kalim had just chuckled weakly and gave them a light pat on the back, his gaze sliding past them to Epel, who had come with them to visit and was standing at the door. He quickly shifted his gaze away and back to the Prefect with a blinding smile.

“Don’t worry, I can take care of Jamil. My father is sending another trusted aide to cook and take care of me while Najma finishes up her training. With the both of us Jamil will be okay. You shouldn’t worry. You have a lot on your plate and I wouldn’t want you to overwork yourself.” He assured them.

The Prefect wasn’t fully pacified by this, of course, but realized that Jamil probably wouldn’t want them hovering and seeing him so weakened, so they promised to visit once the other boy woke up and wanted to see them.

Kalim agreed of course, but his expression somehow said he doubted that would actually happen.

The Prefect didn’t push but gave Kalim one last embrace before stepping out of the hospital wing with Epel at their side.

“You okay?” the lavender haired boy asked, his fingers finding theirs comfortingly to give them a gentle squeeze.

They looked up to their friend, unable to hold back the fond smile as they heard the twinge of country accent in his words that always slipped a little when he was concerned.

“I…think so.” They admitted, somewhat unsure, “It’s just…Jamil was so skilled at potions. I’m worried that if even he can get hurt so badly that others could too.”

They chewed on their bottom lip absently.

“Epel, would you mind tutoring us all more in potions?” they asked hopefully. “You’re so smart in that subject and you know how clumsy Deuce and Grim can be sometimes, and Ace doesn’t aways pay attention to details like he should. What if something like this happens again and they get hurt?”

The Pomefiore boy quickly released their hand to wrap around their shoulders and pull them closer to his side.

“Don’t worry, I’ll help you all study. I’m sure it was just a mix up. It’s really easy to get ingredients wrong if you’re not paying attention and he had to keep a watch on Kalim too.” He assured him. “Fairy wing powder and Pyroxene dragonfly wing powder looks basically the same unless you’re really familiar with them.” He pointed out. “I’ll make sure the guys will know how to tell the difference.”

The Prefect nodded, leaning into the comfort.

“Thanks, Epel.” They smiled softly, leaning their head against his.

“Don’t worry, you can count on me.” He promised gently, voice soft and with the warm drawl of his accent that never failed to make them smile.

“I know.”

-

The second ‘incident’ nearly caused an international scandal.

Rook Hunt, the Vice Housewarden and bane of existence for multiple students that were the focus of his obsessions, was attacked while Trein-sensei had taken the third years on a field trip of sorts to the Coral Sea.

The trip had gone well, in the beginning, despite some of the antics from the NCR students. There had even been a visit to the same museum that Azul had conned the Prefect into stealing from and one of the older siblings to Prince Rielle had hosted them for a meal.

No one was surprised, however, that the blonde huntsman had slipped away at some point in hopes of trying to track sea creatures he would otherwise not have access to.

Many in Pomefiore, in fact, were betting one what exactly he would end up coming back with.

What they hadn't expected was him not returning and a search having to be made for the Sunset Savana citizen only to find him barely alive from what appeared to be a shark attack.

His right arm had been completely torn off at the shoulder.

Vil had been livid, instantly setting out with all the backing of his fame and famous father to place blame on the school for allowing such a thing to occur and at the Coral Sea royal family for not ensuring that the visiting students were safe.

What he didn't say was how he suspected the Octavinelle Housewarden and his pet eels to have been behind it somehow. They made no attempt to hide how they despised the blonde for his stalking habits or his attempts to target them during events like the Bean Fest or Magift matches, and the twins had been visiting their parents on short notice during the trip.

He didn’t say it but he made his displeasure felt on campus and the Mostro Lounge lost all Pomefiore business in one fell swoop.

Magift matches between the two dorms became little more than blood baths that even Savanaclaw were impressed by, and fights breaking out between the students of said dorms became an almost common occurrence.

It was only under Vil’s pressure that Crowley assured the blonde that he would be allowed to return to school once he had healed up enough and would work beside the Housewarden to complete his coursework so that he wouldn’t be held back or hindered by his missing limb.

A magical prosthesis would be created for him, of course, but it would take a while to special create for him and it was doubtful that the tracker’s aim would ever be what it had once been.

“And you’ll thank Lilia-senpai again for me, right? For finding Rook-senpai and bringing him back?” The Prefect asked, looking up at Sebek from where their fingers were snagged onto his sleeve. “I know he wasn’t exactly pleased with Rook-senpai’s…hobbies.”

The half-fae’s expression flickered with discontent and the human knew he was probably just annoyed that his superior had been forced to do the teachers’ job for them.

Or maybe how they had realized that the blonde huntsman had been taking more pictures of them recently than usual.

“OF COURSE!” he declared seriously, not comfortable with instigating contact out in the open but he didn’t attempt to shake them off like he might once have done either. “LILIA-SAMA WAS ONLY DOING AS HE FELT WAS HIS RESPONSIBILITY BUT I WILL REITERATE YOUR GRATITUDE!”

The Prefect smiled brightly up at the knight, forcing Sebek to glance away quickly or succumb to the heat rising in his cheeks.

“Thank you, Sebek. I really like Lilia-sama but I don’t want to bother him when I know you all have so much to do, protecting Tsunotarou.” They admitted.

“IT IS NOTHING! LILIA-SAMA COUNTS YOU AS A TRUSTED COMPANION AND HAS SAID MANY TIMES YOU ARE WELCOME AT DIASOMNIA WHENEVER YOU WISH!” He assured them instantly. “YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE OUR SUPPORT!”

The soft look of wonder and fondness on the Prefect’s face had Sebek looking away again.

“I know, Sebek. I’m really honored to have such skilled and amazing knights think so highly of me.” They said gently, breaking the other’s desperate attempt to not flush under the praise.

They couldn’t help but chuckle at how cute and flustered the tall warrior could get at the smallest things despite his initial prickly attitude.

“Why don’t we go pick up Ace and Grim from detention and call the others? I’ll make dinner for everyone tonight to try and get our minds off of all this.” They offered.

Sebek’s shoulders shifted somewhat at the change of topic, and he nodded sharply again. A moment later he reached out to tug them out of the way of a Savanaclaw student that had almost stumbled into them.

He sent the boar therianthrope a sharp glare and moved them on his other side purposefully so that he could remain between them and rest of the students milling around.

“OF COURSE, PREFECT! I WILL KEEP WATCH WHILE YOU NOTIFY THE OTHERS!” he said seriously, his posture still at the ready as he always was when they were in public.

The Prefect pulled out their phone and began texting in the group chat for the rest of the First Years, reaching up again to lightly snag the edge of Sebek’s blazer, knowing the half-fae preferred having his arms free when he was in ‘guard mode’.

“How does Salmon Carpaccio sound?” they asked fondly, sneaking a look up at the taller male and hiding a chuckle at how he perked up.

“A VERY GOOD CHOICE, PREFECT!” he exclaimed eagerly.

“I’ll make extra so that you can take some back for Lilia-sama and the others.”

“YOU ARE VERY GENEROUS! LILIA-SAMA WILL BE PLEASED!”

-

The third and fourth ‘incidents’ happened so quickly after each other that it left the school reeling.

Ace had chosen to challenge the Heartslabyul Housewarden again.

The Prefect had only heard about the battle after the fact and had been frantic, worried that Rosehearts-senpai wouldn’t go easy on Ace for challenging him again, only to find out that their red haired friend had won.

Deuce’s explanations weren’t very clear, but apparently Ace had made a deal with Azul to borrow Floyd’s Bind the Heart for the duel, which insured that Riddle’s own Off With Your Head couldn’t land and seal Ace’s magic.

Apparently the surprise of the move had been enough for Ace to have an advantage against the older student and had sent Riddle flying into the hedge maze much to the shock of the other dorm members.

“Not that I don’t think you are good enough to defeat Rosehearts-senpai,” The Prefect said with a furrowed brow as they cleaned and bandaged a cut on their friend’s cheek. “But won’t he just challenge you again? You can’t keep making deals with Ashengrotto-senpai. What did you bargain for with him, anyway?” they fretted.

Ace just flashed a playful grin, leaning into their touch and giving one of his customary, flirty winks.

“Aa-ah, can’t tell ya that.” He teased, “NDA and all.”

He laughed at the pout that instantly pulled on their lips.

“Don’t worry, creampuff, it’s nothing I’ll be missing.” He smirked. “And besides, apparently the tyrant’s mom’s been on his ass so he’s going to focus more on studies instead of trying to be a Housewarden again. It’s all good.” He waved off the whole situation like it wasn’t completely unbelievable.

“What!?” they gaped, looking to Deuce for confirmation and boggling when the blue haired boy shrugged and nodded.

“Heard him arguing with Trey-senpai about it.” He admitted. “Something about her finding out that he’s not as focused on grades as he used to be, or who he’s making friends with or something.”

The Prefect’s concerned look returned instantly.

“Is he going to be okay? What if-“

“Hey, don’t worry about it. The guy’s old enough to take care of his own shit. You’ve already kicked his ass before, so he knows what he’s about. He’s only got a couple more years of school anyway and then she can’t force him to do fucking anything.” Ace argued, poking their forehead.

“I guess…” they muttered, lightly rubbing the spot and sticking out their tongue when the red head just smirked again.

“Still, maybe I should-“ but before the Prefect could try to convince the two to let them at least bring the second year a bag of sweets to help lift his spirits when the front door to Ramshackle was thrown open.

The slam of the wood bouncing against the wall had the three jumping slightly and they looked up to see Jack and Sebek rushing in – Grim hanging off the wolf’s shoulder – and Epel followed close behind.

“Guys! You’ll never believe this!” Epel gasped, throwing himself in between Ace and the Prefect on the couch and shifting to hold the phone so they could all see as they gathered around.

The Prefect watched him click on the video that was already pulled up on the screen, moving a little to see better over his shoulder while Deuce pressed against their back and the two tallest leaned over the back of the sofa behind them.

The video blinked and then began playing, showing an odd angle that was clearly taken on a phone from behind a corner.

It was Vil.

A very drunk Vil who was ranting and raving in a barely comprehensible stream of rage that made him look near Overblotting again.

His hair was falling around his face and he was making wild hand gestures that were no where close to the elegance he was known for as a clearly uncomfortable Epel stood close by and tried to soothe and pacify him.

The Prefect winced, realizing the celebrity was going to have a hard time trying to smooth over getting inebriated on camera.

But then it got worse.

Vil wasn’t just complaining about Rook being hurt – which was understandable even to most internet gremlins – but he then he started in on throwing accusations about Azul being behind it and that turned into him complaining about other NCR students – namely the ‘deviant bastard of a second-prince, Leona’ – who he rambled about being no better than an animal in heat.

Then he turned on Neige LeBlanche.

“Holy shit.” Ace whistled lowly as the Prefect could only cover their mouth aghast.

Epel nodded rapidly, looking more than frazzled and harried.

“It just dropped, everyone’s going crazy.” He admitted. “Vil-senpai’s been really stressed since Rook got hurt and I just figured he needed a chance to vent or that maybe he had gone a little overboard with his potions, or something.”

“This…how are his agents and PR team going to be able to fix this?” the Prefect gaped, wincing as they could already see the rapid list of comments nearly flying up the screen with endless broken heart emojis.

“I don’t know if it’s something that can be fixed.” Jack admitted lowly. “Ignoring how highly thought of LeBlanche-san is, Vil just insulted a royal heir to Sunset Savana.”

Sebek gave a serious nod, eyes calculating as he continued to listen and watch the video.

“King Farena is amenable from what Waka-sama has said, but he is fiercely protective of his family. He will not take kindly to such words being thrown so publicly, especially by someone of Schoenheit-senpai’s fame.” He admitted, his voice lower and tense in a way that they seldom heard it.

There was a long moment of silence between them with nothing but the looping video audio filling the air.

“Welp!” Grim said suddenly, dropping down on the couch and into the Prefect’s lap. “It’s not our problem!”

“Grim!” They protested. “Vil-senpai is…well, he’s not nice, perse, but-“

“No ‘buts’ henchman!” Grim said defiantly, throwing his paw into their face. “The puppy is right! You can’t fix everything! This is something the guy got himself into and he’s got to get himself out of! What are you supposed to do against rabid fans anyway?”

The Prefect chewed on their lip worried, gaze flickering back to the screen and expression dropping at the storm that was clearly building into a hurricane against the actor before their eyes.

Deuce slipped his arms around their waist and nodded against their shoulder.

“Grim’s right, this time.” He said softly. “There’s nothing any of us can do to stop it now.”

The Prefect snuggled Grim under their chin as they were bracketed by all sides by the comfort of their friends.

“I thought…I thought me being here was supposed to help.” They admitted in a small voice. “I thought that was the reason I was brought…that I had a purpose…but how am I supposed to help them like Crowley wants when things like this keep happening?”

A tension shivered through the air and something in Ace’s chest snapped as he suddenly jerked from the couch and moved to lean over their Prefect, reaching out to cup their face in his hands, expression sharp and angry.

But not at them.

Never at them.

“None of this is your fault or responsibility.” He nearly snarled. “That crow bastard can go fuck himself if he tries to push this on you. If he tries to kick you out of Ramshackle you’ll stay in Heartslabyul. If he tries to kick you out of school, you’ll stay with one of our families. Mine and Deuce’s moms have been bugging us to bring you home for break anyway.”

“Yeah! And Grandpa says he wants to teach you how to bake his apple pies.” Epel added instantly.

“You would be more than welcome at my home.” Jack said firmly, large warm hand settling on their head.

“WAKA-SAMA AND LILIA-SAMA HAVE ALREADY MADE STEPS TO REGISTER YOU AND GRIM AS BRIAR VALLEY CITIZENS!” Sebek boomed, horrified at the idea of the small, stranded human being worried for their place in the world.

The Prefect’s breath was stolen as they looked up into Ace’s scarlet gaze and heard the words of assurance around them.

“You don’t have to worry, idiot.” The red head said, leaning in to press his forehead against theirs as Deuce’s breath was in their ear and Epel’s nose pressed into their neck.

Jack and Sebek were a warm, steady presence behind them and Grim’s claws tangled in their shirt.

It made their thoughts dizzy and their heart skip a beat in their chest.

“We’re going to take care of you.”

Oh.

They loved them.

=======================

Hi guys! Sorry I'm posting kind of sporadically, my new job makes it hard to post during the week.

Anyway, hope you like the second part of this. I'm not super pleased with it but I have rewritten parts so many times I figured it would be better just to get it out and move on.

You were, in fact, the only friend he had consistently been able to be near with the permission of his mother since he was seven years old.

Your parents were nobles as well, after all, and your aptitude for magic was already showing signs of being very advanced for your age. It was the perfect set up for her to prepare a betrothal or simple family alliance. If it had been up to her, of course, it would have been a betrothal from the start, but your parents were more attentive to your wishes and refused to push the subject more than allowing you two to get to know each other and see how your friendship would grow.

The first time you had met Riddle you were both dressed in the same sort of frilly, miniature adult, nobility dress that most of your station paraded their children around in, and Riddle’s mother had set up a ‘tea party’ for you to enjoy.

With her there, of course.

It was awkward and tense and not very enjoyable but you never made fun of him even when his mother explained there were no sweets because they were unhealthy for you. You even gave him a small smile and wave before you left so he felt like, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.

Maybe he could actually make a friend.

He fell in love with you the next time you visited, when you slipped him a strawberry tart hidden in the basket of books you had brought to share with a bright but mischievous smile.

“Tea parties should always have strawberry tartes.” You had whispered with a giggle.

It was the best thing he had ever tasted and your laugh was the most beautiful sound in the world to his ears.

That day he knew he was going to marry you, if you would have him.

He didn’t know what married people did besides live together and spend all their time together but he didn’t care if it meant being able to hear you laugh every day.

If his mother knew of his intent and determination she might have actually been proud for once, but he kept it held secret in his heart. Protected that little dream even as you both grew and his responsibilities and expectations mounted on his shoulders.

You were like a warm summer day to his life, a brilliant rose blooming in an otherwise barren garden.

Smiling at him as if seeing him made your day, speaking to him so openly when you were alone and going on about the exciting and fantastical books that you read or what interesting trip you had gone on with your parents.

You were a window into the world he never got to experience and you shared it freely as best you could. Bringing him pictures and books with their swashbuckling covers hidden behind those of scientific journals. You even covered for him when you could so that he could slip out and meet with Trey and Che’nya.

And every chance you had, you brought him strawberry tartes.

When Riddle was accepted into Night Raven College – the most illustrious and sought after school in all of Twisted Wonderland – he was disappointed to be separated from you. He knew you would, no doubt, be accepted the next year when you came of age, though, so he promised to write you every day and tried not to blush when you threw your arms around him in a tight embrace.

Being accepted into Heartslabyul was in no way a surprise, having planned on being sorted into their Queen’s dorm from the start, and he quickly set about placing himself as the top student and defeating the current Dorm Housewarden to gain his position.

He wanted to be able to greet you properly, after all, and make you proud. Create a dorm that you could excel in and dorm members that would – if not reach your level – at least not disgrace you in any way.

He wanted to prove to you that he could take care of Heartslabyul better than anyone – and in return hopefully prove he could take care of you the same way.

Unfortunately, despite your affect on Riddle, much of his mother still stubbornly clung on and it wasn’t long before he was being whispered about as a ‘tyrant’ despite Trey and Cater’s – the previous Housewarden that he had defeated – attempts to smooth things over. It was perhaps, not as bad as it could be, he didn’t always jump to his Unique Magic to handle trouble makers, but he also didn’t go easy on any of them.

It was fine, though, they would see why it would all be worth it eventually.

He didn’t realize that more whispers were shared among Heartslabyul that centered around the daily letters that Riddle would send and receive.

He always sent one first thing in the morning and he always received one around teatime in the afternoon. No one really understood why he was using physical letters like a grandma  – though Trey knew it was because Riddle’s mother had access to his phone and laptop – but whatever was in them must have been important because those were the best times to ask the Housewarden for anything.

He would always be a bit distracted after sending the letter for about an hour, almost wistful, but then the rest of the afternoon when he received the reply he would be a bit more lenient. A bit more soft spoken with the edges of his tone smoothed over so he sounded less like a dictator and more like a strict older brother.

Everyone wanted to know just who Riddle was writing to and of course the guess was a girlfriend or boyfriend, but no one put much weight to that when they doubted anyone could put up with him.

Who would want to date the tyrant queen?

The next year when they arrived on the morning of the welcome ceremony, Riddle was the worst they had ever seen him.

He stormed around, ordering everyone into a whirlwind of cleaning and preparations for the new students. Painting the roses, bathing and brushing the hedgehogs, doing the same for the flamingos and ensuring every corner of the dorm was polished to a shine until the marble floors gleamed like mirrors.

It was clear that someone important was going to be showing up, especially when Riddle gave them a speech about what he expected from them regarding conduct during the ceremony and personally checked each of them to ensure their uniforms were perfect and their appearance well groomed.

Trey just followed close behind with a bemused, fond smile while Cater was near vibrating with excitement and whispering to his taller friend about Magicam videos and candid reactions.

The ceremony went as it had the years before and it was rather easy to see just who Riddle was focusing on when he recognized them instantly despite the robe hood hiding most of their features, and how the person smiled in his direction and gave a little wave. Riddle even smiled back at them, though it was careful and poised, and he gave a small nod in return as they waited for the person to be sorted.

To say that Riddle was disappointed that you were placed in Diasomnia rather than Heartslabyul was an understatement.

He didn’t throw a fit or behead anyone but his expression fell before he quickly plastered on a smile as the figure turned to beam at him. They couldn’t speak while more students were being sorted, Riddle did glance to his side where Lilia Vanrouge was taking stock of the new students being sent to his dorm.

“I hope,” he said softly, expression serious as he met gazes with the other’s wine-red eyes that instantly focused on him. “That Diasomnia treats their human members just as they treat their fae? I would hate to hear that your dorm doesn’t recognize when a worthy soul has joined their house.”

Amusement sparkled in the third year’s eyes and he flashed a too sharp grin.

“Why, Housewarden Rosehearts, surely you don’t think we would not care for all of our students no matter their heritage. There has never been a soul sorted into our noble house that hasn't been worthy. Perhaps you would care to visit sometime to see the truth of my words?”

There was definitely a teasing note in the other’s voice and Riddle had the feeling that the fae was able to see right through him, but he pushed the embarrassment aside, gaze traveling over the heads of the new students seated with their houses.

His rose was whispering excitedly to another Diasomnia student and quickly gave an eager wave to Riddle again when they noticed his gaze, barely hidden by the crowd so as not to draw attention.

It was impossible for Lilia to miss the softening of his expression and the teasing smirk on the fae's face made Riddle clear his throat quickly and look away.

“That sounds agreeable. And of course, Heartslabyul is open to visiting students from all houses as well.” He said before tacking on a quick “So long as they follow our rules.”

“Of course, Housewarden Rosehearts. I’ll be sure to pass the invitation along to our students.” He said bemused, clearly laughing at the situation and it took everything Riddle had not to huff and throw a fit.

But ensuring that you were at least allowed to visit as often as possible was more important.

Besides, he decided eventually, if you weren’t to be in Heartslabyul then he supposed Diasomnia was the best alternative. It was the house of Nobility, after all, and a queen needed a king to stand at their side.

He would just have to ensure that he proved he was the best suited as Queen in all of Night Raven College and that some interloper didn’t steal your attentions away before he could show you just how much he loved you and the life he hoped to provide for you.

The uproar that came from the odd, magicless student and the rampaging weasel monster nearly led Riddle to murder.

How dare they ruin his rose’s first night at NRC! This was not what he wanted their impression of his school to be!

He took care of the monster quickly – with the help of Ashengrotto, unfortunately, - to ensure that no one – especially his rose – came to harm.

It was a relief when he turned, though, and suddenly found his arms full of the one he loved.

He instantly returned the embrace, worried for an instant that they were hurt or frightened, but when they pulled back, hood fallen away to show their beautiful face, they were beaming excitedly, brilliant eyes flashing and the smile he missed so much warming his chest.

“That was wonderful, Riddle! You were so amazing!” you praised, not at all embarrassed or uncertain about saying such things in public.

You never were uncertain.

You always spoke what was in your heart and he both loved and envied you for that courage.

He cleared his throat a little, pulling back just a bit as he knew the other Housewardens could see them and he didn’t want you to grab any of their interests. He didn’t trust them and he certainly didn’t want to risk having to fight them for you.

Not that he would lose! But still, he knew how charming Vil was and Leona’s whole dorm just caused problems. He certainly didn’t want the likes of them hanging around you when they certainly weren’t good enough for your attention.

“It’s good to see you, my rose.” He said, holding your hands instead of continuing the embrace.

He would make up for it later in private where he wouldn’t have to worry about so many eyes on you.

You gave another of your beautiful laughs and squeezed his hands.

“It’s good to see you too.” They said playfully. “Even if it was just yesterday it felt like I’d never get here!”

Riddle hoped that the warmth he felt wasn’t traveling to his face.

“I’m sorry that your first night here has been ruined.” He said, expression falling into a frown as he glared towards where the Headmage was leading off the magicless student and the contained monster.

“Ruined? It was exciting!” you beamed, causing him to blink before a fond smile pulled on his lips as you began praising him again for his skills and bravery and ability to take charge until Vanrouge’s voice cut in from the large double doors, calling for all of the Diasomnia students.

“Oh, I’ve got to go, but I’ll see you soon, promise!” you said before giving him another quick embrace and then spinning on your heals to hurry off after your new, fellow dorm members.

Riddle watched you go and did his best to not make it so obvious that he wanted nothing more than to follow you.

Instead he turned to his own students that were milling around Trey and Cater and started them on the way back to Heartslabyul.

He pointedly ignored the calculating looks from Azul or the amused one that Lilia was shooting him while apparently chatting with you until they were out of sight.

Well, things didn’t turn out exactly like he wanted but it could have been worse, he supposed. You could have been placed somewhere like Octavinelle where he’d constantly fret about you being around Floyd or if Azul would trick you into some strange contract. Savanaclaw even more, not even imagining your bright and open personality being able to stand against the chaos of that house.

He sighed to himself when he was finally able to retire to his room, the rooms he had wanted to show you and offer as a study location along with the evening tea he had set aside to prepare. He had even made sure that your room would be right beside his, ignoring Trey’s knowing look, and hoped maybe he would be able to spend more time with you in private.

Hold your hand longer. Hug you without having to pull back because of what others might think.

Maybe even…kiss you on the cheek if you gave him permission.

The thought caused his cheeks to flare and he quickly shook it away as he changed into his pajamas.

He was just folding the dirty robes to set aside for cleaning later when he heard a strange scratch at the balcony doors.

Frowning confused and wondering if that red headed first year was already causing problems – he could spot a troublemaker a mile away – he went to open them.

He stared.

A bat was flapping and hovering before him…with a letter gripped in its tiny claws.

A letter on thick cream parchment with a vividly crimson wax seal with the imprint of a rose.

“Thank you.” He managed, unsure if the bat would understand him but not willing to risk being rude after it was obviously coming to deliver something for him.

He reached out and accepted the letter, watching as the small creature squeaked before fluttering off again into the night.

Well…he supposed he had seen stranger things happen at NRC, so with a shrug he stepped back into his room and closed the doors.

A smile bloomed on his face, however, when he saw his name written on the front in a familiar hand and he wasted no time in carefully breaking the seal off and opening it. Already you had written him a decently long letter telling him all about your new dorm and how you had settled in and how nice your dorm mates were. He could almost hear your voice as he read your words and the last of his disappointment eased away.

You might not have been placed in Heartslabyul but you were still there with him at NRC now and he could see you every day.

Could walk you to class and carry your books for you. Could eat lunch with you and teach you how to play croquette with the flamingos and cuddle the hedgehogs together when no one else was around. He could see you smile and hear your laugh any time he wanted without the expectant gaze of his mother weighing him down.

He could just be with you, and suddenly school seemed all the more bright with the thought, despite the moon hanging over head.

You were here, finally, and he couldn’t wait to spend every moment he could at your side.

-

It only took a week for the entirety of Heartslabyul to brand you as their ‘king’ – though they didn’t call you that to your face – and you were eagerly welcomed with open arms anytime you could join them.

You were warm and friendly, kind to everyone and didn’t hesitate to help someone if they needed it. You had become much like Kalim, an anomaly at NRC – even if you weren’t quite so energetic. Even more so because of your obvious closeness to their Housewarden.

That was the real reason they loved having you around.

Whenever you were in the vicinity, Riddle’s near entire focus would be on you instead of them. He still upheld the rules, still insisted on only the best from his students, but there were few times now that he truly lost his temper.

On the rare occasion you weren’t there already to lay a hand on his arm and give him a gentle smile that broke him out of his building rage, Cater only had to send you a quick text and soon you were bursting into Heartslabyul with a basket of pastries and books.

You would have part of your uniform out of place and completely interrupt whatever screaming lecture your friend had started into with pleas to help you with homework that you were stuck on that you insisted that only Riddle could assist you with.

The ranting would be cut off instantly, his angry flush still remaining but all real heat and sharpness melting away as he would fuss and right your uniform. He would chide you in a manner that was so gentle and removed from mere moments before that someone might suspect he was a different person all together, before sweeping you off to his rooms with a promise to help you with whatever you were struggling with.

The ‘beheadings’ were cut down to a mere fifth of what they had once been per week and the overall atmosphere of the dorm eased until even the more trouble-magnet students couldn’t complain too much over the elaborate rules.

Rules that Riddle would obviously bend as much as possible for your sake.

He would use every chance to help adjust your uniform because he wanted you to look nice and he liked being able to take care of you, but he never punished you for it. He allowed you to play with the hedgehogs and flamingos without requiring you to help keep their habitats clean – though you tended to help with that anyway – and if you happened to fall asleep during a study session and ended up staying until after curfew…well you weren’t part of their dorm so it wasn’t his place to set a punishment for you.

It would be unsafe and ungentlemanly to make you walk all the way back to Diasomnia in the dark, after all, so clearly the more responsible thing would be to let you spend the night while he slept on the sofa.

Completely ignoring the fact that he had handed out punishments to students from other dorms before without hesitation.

The most obvious rule bending, however, that the other students were able to witness first hand was during unbirthday parties and dorm tea.

There was always a special seat beside Riddle’s at the head of the table – claiming it was only following the proper etiquette and hospitality that they were required to show to guests - despite no others ever being offered the same – and while the first piece of cake was always meant for the Housewarden, Riddle would unfailingly accept it and then hold it out towards you.

After all, it was his slice of cake and it was his right to do with it what he wanted, so if he decided to give the first bite to you – his king – then it was breaking no rules.

Your mere presence would keep the parties festive and Riddle so distracted that even if he caught a minor infraction happening the most he did was send a warning glare for the person to stop.

Ace was your biggest fan, actually, when you had interrupted Riddle’s outrage at his apology marron pie with the sudden declaration that you loved marron pie – and wouldn’t Riddle accept it so they could share it later? If they didn’t eat it at the unbirthday party, then it wasn’t really breaking the rules, right?  Besides, wasn’t it the thought behind the action that mattered more? Intentions should always be taken into account when handling such situations. Ace had probably chosen marron because you had mentioned you really liked it. That was nice of him, wasn’t it? To think of you?

Ace had his collar removed and Riddle had a relieved Trey hurry off with the pastry for them to enjoy later in private.

Needless to say, despite your Diasomnia uniform, you had been accepted by Heartslabyul as one of their own.

Not only were your own dorm members – who Riddle was disgruntled to realize were more fond of you than he liked – protective over you, but if someone tried to mess with you or be rude to you in any way, any and all Heartslabyul boys in range would be there in an instant to protect or back you up.

You were their Housewarden’s King after all.

Even if Riddle hadn't made the order to keep an eye on you, they would have done it. If only to ensure you were able to be around as much as possible.

While rumors of strange incidents and fights started showing up around campus, you were safe in Riddle’s room. Sitting close as he helped you study or falling asleep on his shoulder as you both read the adventure books you had brought to share with him.

And then, when Riddle finally worked up the courage to ask, you shared your first kiss with him.

Gentle and full of the love he had felt for you since you were both children, and soft as the petals of a rose.

Riddle’s Rose.

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Hope you guys liked it! I'm a sucker for fluffy cuteness lol and this was particularly tooth rotting. <3

“Really, why do you keep it so long when you barely do anything with it?” they teased playfully as they ran their fingers through the silky locks that nearly reached the middle of the other’s back now and began pulling it up into a neater tail to keep it out of the way.

Deuce couldn’t help but smile back just as playfully as he reveled in the feeling.

“I like when you run your fingers through it.” He admitted, managing not to blush this time.

He had gotten a little better at that over the three years at NRC, though his eyes still sparkled just as bright when the Prefect laughed in returned and gave him a light kiss on the corner of his mouth.

“Well, you’re going to have to learn how to keep it tidy without me during your internship.” They warned fondly. “I doubt the Queendom’s guardsmen will allow me to just show up every morning to do it for you.”

Deuce pouted at little at that, looping his arms around their waist to pull them closer and rest his forehead against theirs.

“I wish you could come with me.” He admitted.

“Oi what about me!?” Ace’s voice interrupted as he entered the Ramshackle kitchen.

Deuce rolled is eyes. “Internship will be a vacation away from you.” He shot back to his Housewarden. “I might actually get some real sleep.”

The red head’s grin shifted to a devious smirk as draped himself over his shoulders.

“Oh? I thought you rather liked me keeping you awake.” He teased, causing the Prefect to giggle into Deuce’s chest when the blue haired young man instantly flustered and tried to elbow their lover.

“YOU SNORE!” he insisted, glaring when the red head just danced away with a laugh and sauntered over to the breakfast table where the food was already set out.

He dropped down into one of the chairs and began filling a plate for himself, making sure to put some on the plate beside him so that the Prefect wouldn’t get distracted and skip eating.

“So where are the others?” he asked, looking over his shoulder at the still blushing top ranked student and the giggling Prefect that was trying to soothe him and usher him into a chair to eat as well.

“They are on their way.” The Prefect smiled brightly, bustling around to get some drinks for everyone. “Epel is getting ready for morning practice and Howl should be back soon from his rounds.” They explained. “Sebek had to return to Diasomnia to check on things and Tsunotarou said he would be mirror calling to see how he was doing. It was a while ago, though, since he had to leave before even Jack because of the time difference. He should-“

“MY LOVES I HAVE RETURNED! I HAVE NEWS FROM WAKA-SAMA THAT I KNOW YOU WILL ALL BE EXCITED TO HEAR!” came the bellow from the entrance as the door to Ramshackle was thrown open.

“-be arriving soon.” They chuckled.

Ace snorted and Deuce couldn’t help but smile fondly as their tallest lover came bounding into the kitchen with all the energy of an eager puppy despite his size.

“Welcome back, Sebek.” The prefect greeted him with a smile, leaning up on their toes to place a kiss on his cheek that he eagerly returned with one of his own.

It was swiftly followed by him bending down to press one against Ace’s temple and then meeting Deuce for a quick one on the lips.

“WHERE ARE EPEL AND JACK!?” he asked. “I HAVE IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM WAKA-SAMA TO IMPART!”

“What, did he tell you about a new cloak he bought?” Ace teased.

“NAY! WELL, YES, BUT THAT IS NOT WHAT IS IMPORTANT IN THIS INSTANCE! OF COURSE, ALL OF WAKA-SAMA’S NEWS IS IMPORTANT BUT THIS IS DOUBLY SO!”

“Oi! Lizard, you can stop yelling.” Grim yawned as he was draped over Epel’s shoulder as the Pomefiore Housewarden was making his way down the stairs.

“I AM NOT A LIZARD!”

The Prefect covered their giggles and moved to pick up their partner from his perch. It was impossible to continue to hide them, however, when Epel slipped his arm around their waist and tugged them into a hungry kiss. He always got a little more excited when he was going to have a chance to play Magift, even if it was only practice.

“FUNGYA! Stop doing that when they’re holding me! Gross!” Grim complained, pushing against Epel’s jersey.

“Then walk on your own.” Epel said pointedly, sticking out his tongue and causing the violet stud there to glint a little.

It matched the others that he had, his left ear almost completely taken up now by elegant rings and studs that his lovers had given him at different occasions during their time together.

“A boss never walks when they have a henchman to carry them!” Grim shot back.

Epel snorted and stole another kiss from the Prefect before doing the same to the others.

“How do you think the team’s shaping up?” Ace asked from a muffled, full mouth.

Epel dropped down on his other side and began filling his own plate.

“Pretty good. The dorm teams are all looking decent and the school team is much better than last year. Asim I & II are much better on a broom than most of the other first years. I think they’ll train up into a couple of good chargers.”

“Have they still not told you which of them is which?” Ace chuckled, the twins that had been put in Savanaclaw were pretty hilarious in his opinion.

“Oh they have, but they keep switching on me, I’m pretty sure.” Epel shrugged as he added a few more of the odd sausages from Briar Valley that Sebek always brought back from home onto his plate. “So I just call them one and two and whoever answers is that one for the day.

Sebek frowned. “THAT IS NOT A PROPER WAY TO GO ABOUT BEING A MEMBER OF A TEAM! ONE MUST BE HONEST WITH THEIR LEADER!”

“Not everyone can tell their Commander with a straight face that they request a reschedule because you plan on fucking your boyfriend silly for his birthday.” Epel drawled, his accent warming his words.

The half-fae stammered, flushing darkly. “IT WAS IMPORTANT FOR THEM TO KNOW I WAS NOT SIMPLY SHIRKING MY DUTIES! LILIA-SAMA EVEN GAVE HIS BEST WISHES FOR MY ENDEAVOR!”

Ace was cackling into his eggs at the memory of that conversation while Deuce flushed to his roots – having been the aforementioned boyfriend they was going to ‘fuck silly’.

“I will never be able to face Vanrouge-senpai again.” He lamented, running a hand down his face.

“THERE IS NO REASON TO BE EMBARRASSED! THE NIGHT WAS A SUCCESS AND VERY ENJOYABLE! YOU SAID SO YOURSELF THAT WE PROVIDED A PLEASUREABLE CELEBRATION!”

Deuce hid his face as Ace continued cackling to the point that he almost choked.

Grim scrunched his nose and filled his plate with a bit of help from the Prefect until it was a mountain of food.

“You are the worst roommates.” He complained. “I had to go to Heartslabyul just to get away from all your screaming.”

“WE ARE NOT THAT LOUD!”

The monster just gave the half-fae a look and didn’t bother answering.

The Prefect patted Deuce’s back comfortingly and offered Sebek a fond but rather embarrassed smile of their own.

“Why don’t you start eating until Jack returns and then you can tell us of your important news?” they suggested trying to change the subject to less blush-inducing topics.

“VERY GOOD SUGGESTION MY LOVE!” he declared, moving to take one of the free chairs and started gathering his own food.

The Prefect smiled warmly and passed the half-fae a large glass of juice before sliding some milk to Epel.

“Aa, we might need to trim a little and freshen the design a bit before the next match.” They said absently, lightly running their fingers over the short undercut that the lavender haired boy had started sporting. “Would you like to keep the apple blossom motif or go with something different?”

Epel tilted his head into the touch slightly, thinking for a moment. “I think I’ll keep it a little longer. Grandpa really liked it when he watched my match on the television.”

“What did granny think about the tattoo?” Ace teased, nodding to the colorful and rather beautiful work of art that covered Epel’s shoulder and wound down his arm in the form of watercolor apple blossoms with the branches resembling brushstrokes.

“She’s getting used to it.” Epel admitted sheepishly. “She doesn’t really mind them, she just wishes I only got them where I could hide them if I need to.”

The Prefect chuckled, kissing him on the temple again.

“I think it’s very dashing.” They said.

“Hey! I could get another!” Ace protested at the smug grin Epel shot him.

“After you nearly cried when we got our group one? I doubt it.” He teased back, his wavy hair parted over the side and falling a little into his eyes.

He’d need to pin it back for practice.

“Oi! They said rib ones are the worst!” the red head protested, absently nudging the Prefect’s chair out for them with his foot so they could sit.

“Not really an excuse when you cry before they even get the needle out.”

The other four ignored the two’s bickering.

“What do you have planned today?” Deuce asked the Prefect and Grim.

“We have a self-study for potions lab.” They said thoughtfully, taking a bite and then tapping the fork against their lip. “We’ll be trying to perfect the end of term project that Crewel has us all doing.”

“It’s fine, we figured out the step that was causing the reaction between the magora roots and crushed opals.” Grim waved off any concern about the project. “We just had to adjust the temperature and make sure that the magora has dissolved and bonded with the weird whatever-you-call-it syrup before we add the opal.”

“Falarian Honey.” The Prefect reminded him.

“Yeah, that.”

“Afterwards Crowley wanted to discuss some of the plans for next year and get a start on organizing what we have planned for the RSA joint festival.” They continued.

Ace heaved a sigh as he broke away from the argument with Epel.

“I still don’t know why you agreed to intern here.” He said. “Mal-“ “WAKA-SAMA!” “Ugh, King Draconia, offered to let you intern as his personal assistant.”

The Prefect offered a small, fond smile at the thought of their dragon-fae friend.

Things had been a bit…awkward there for a little while when they realized that Malleus had grown romantic feelings towards them.

Especially in light of their own for Sebek.

The Briar King was nothing if not loyal to those he cared for, though, and after a little time to come to terms with it, he and the rest of Diasomnia were happy to support their relationship with their half-fae brother.

They knew that Malleus still loved them, but they hoped one day he would find someone that could love him with their whole heart as he did them. They were so thankful that the fae king didn’t allow his feelings to turn sour and ruin their friendship.

He had explained it to them once, during one of their nightly walks once they had reconnected. Malleus’s dragon instincts wanted them close, wanted to protect them and keep them part of his family. While it wasn’t what he had hoped originally, he was happy for their and Sebek’s happiness and with them as Sebek’s lover that meant they would still remain part of his family. It settled something inside him that prevented the loss wounding him beyond repair.

Lilia had jumped at the chance to ask when they were going to make him a grandpa, much to the Prefect's embarrassment.

Especially when Sebek insisted, without hesitation, that the responsible thing would be to wait until they graduated.

“I know, but I didn’t want to take advantage of Tsunotarou’s kindness.” They said. “And…well…I’m not quite ready to leave NRC just yet.” They admitted softly, glancing around at them with a soft smile.

“Why would you be leaving?” Jack asked as he slipped silently into the kitchen, causing the others except Sebek and Grim to jump slightly.

“Oi, stop doing that, dog-boy or I swear I’ll get one of those bells.” Ace shot over his shoulder as the wolf therianthrope pushed the longer, fluffy bangs out of his face and leaned down to give kisses to the Prefect, Deuce, and Epel.

He purposefully passed over Ace, who responded with flipping him off.

“We were just talking about internship this next year.” The Prefect smiled. “Tsunotarou offered that position as his assistant but I was saying that I kind of want to stay at NRC a little longer.” They explained.

“Still not sure how you can put up with the idiot bird man.” Ace rolled his eyes.

The Prefect giggled at that. “He’s gotten better since first year.” They defended the crow-fae.

Which, yes, he had magically seemed to change his tune after he lost most of his most well known and high ranking students.

No one still knew what happened to Azul and the eel twins, and Leona had graduated suddenly – skipping the internship year somehow – and returned to the Sunset Savanna at his brother's insistence.

Vil had been forced to retire from the public all together after the PR backlash and Rook had gone with him. Idia managed to avoid the whole thing, though that wasn’t too difficult since he hardly left his room.

Still, he had stayed far away from them until he graduated and disappeared off to the Island of Lamentations again with Ortho.

They were pretty sure Ruggie had actually worked out something with Kalim and moved his family to the Scorching Sands, but they weren’t sure about that.

Riddle had apparently wanted to get out of school as fast as possible and did what he had to to skip a year to join Trey and Cater, the three going off on internship together before coming back to graduate and then disappearing again to do something or other in the Queendom.

Ace didn’t really care to figure out what.

All in all, the first years went through their sophomore and junior years as the only ones left from their original friend group (i.e. Overblot gang) on campus.

Crowley became a much more attentive Headmage around that time and while they decided to keep the exterior of Ramshackle…well Ramshackle for aesthetic purposes, he had spared no expense to refurbish the whole dorm with the most up to date amenities.

Insisting that he could certainly never let a student of his live in such conditions, with Crewel brandishing his crop the whole way.

Funny that.

“Besides…” they said with a soft, loving smile as they looked around at the young men they loved more than anything and their partner. “This is where I met all of you…where I’ve been the happiest of my life. I just wanted to enjoy it for one more year.”

The expressions on the others told them that their feelings were understood, and they just laughed when Ace threw his arms around them and tried to pull them into his lap, kissing along their neck.

“How are you so damn cute!? It should be illegal to be this cute! We can’t just leave you here by yourself! Someone will trick you into an unmarked van with candy and kittens!”

The Prefect laughed, struggling against the kisses and tickling, bumping the table a bit and causing Deuce to try and come to their rescue until finally Sebek simply stood and went over to pick the Prefect up under the arms and pull them from between the two and proceeded to carry them back to his seat to place them on his lap.

“YOU ARE NOT ALLOWING THEM TO EAT! HUMANS NEED A HEALTHY DIET TO LIVE A LONG LIFE!” he insisted, earning a kiss on the cheek for his efforts and the Prefect just settled down more comfortably on his lap as Jack pulled their plate over and passed it to the half-fae.

Ace huffed but didn’t argue and just turned back to finish his breakfast.

“So what were you trying to tell us earlier?” Deuce asked, looking to the knight.

“AH! YES! I HAVE WONDERFUL NEWS!” He exclaimed happily, eyes shining with pride. “WAKA-SAMA HAS PREPARED EVERYTHING FOR OUR LOVELY PREFECT AND GRIM TO BE OFFICIAL BRIAR VALLEY CITIZENS!” he said, causing a brilliant smile to bloom on the Prefect’s face.

“That’s great!” Epel said with his own excited smile.

After all, their lover didn’t technically exist legally in their world with no history or records of their life. It had taken Malleus a while to prepare a completely air tight background for their friend that would allow them all the benefits afforded to the rest of those in their world.

As king he could just keep them safe in his kingdom, after all, but with this they could travel anywhere, do anything just as the rest of them. It also gave Grim a measure of protection as a sentient being instead of simply being labeled a ‘monster’ that ran the risk of being captured and carted off somewhere.

The Prefect threw their arms around Sebek’s neck and gave him a tight embrace.

“Thank you so much, Sebek. I know Malleus would have done it anyway but you did so much to help set up the history for us. It really means the world to me.”

Sebek readily wrapped his arms around the smaller human, burying his nose into their neck and just soaking in the feeling of their heart beat and warmth of their body.

“Of course, I would do anything for those I love.” He mumbled into their shoulder.

The Prefect cupped the back of his head, threading their fingers through the longer hair that the half-fae was letting grow out a bit.

They felt Jack’s warm hand against their back and knew Ace, Deuce, and Epel were just as excited for them. It was a protection that they had wanted to give their lover since they arrived and it had finally managed work.

The Prefect was a citizen of Twisted Wonderland.

This was their home.

They were home.

“We will always do anything for you.” Jack whispered, leaning in to nuzzle the side of their head lovingly, tail sweeping back and forth.

The Prefect didn’t even try to hold back their tears. More hands, more warmth surrounded them and it only made them cry harder.

They were so happy.

They were so happy to have been brought here.

So thankful to have earned the love of such wonderful people.

No matter what the future would bring for them, they knew they could handle it together.

Because it had always been and always would be them against the world.

And there was no one else the Prefect would want to face the world with.

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