✧Reader is mainly based on my own personality✧
✧Some tags I added but wouldn't work✧
Gonna be so honest٫ I had barely any idea what to do with the Sea Witch's darling 😭
𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 3 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 4
𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕 ✧ 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 1 ✧ 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 2 ✧ 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 3 ✧ 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 4 ✧ ...
You were pretty sick of these dreams. They made you unnaturally anxious and never seemed to end off on a good note.
This time٫ it seemed to be a sort or romantic evening. The young mer girl from earlier was on a rowboat with her beloved prince. She looked to have truly been given human legs٫ yet lost her lovely voice.
"You know, I feel really bad not knowing your name٫" Prince Eric sighed.
"Ariel. Her name is Ariel٫" a nearby crab appeared from the water and sang٫ a small group of back up "singers" accompanying him٫ because of course that would happen. Wow, maybe you were starting to get withdrawal symptoms from those drugs the Tweels gave you...
Somehow٫ the prince understood perfectly. "Well, that's kinda pretty. Okay. Ariel."
The two lovers began to lean in for a kiss٫ but the boat mysteriously flipped before their lips could meet. The cause soon became obvious٫ however٫ once two twin eels emerged from the water's surface.
You view faded to black before bubbles began to rise directly in your vision. A deeper٫ raspy voice soon rang in your ears٫ grasping your attention. The very same voice you've grown to recognize as the Sea Witch.
"Oh, she's better than I thought. Well, it's time Ursula took matters into her own tentacles!"
Bubbles rose again٫ but were accompanied by a new sight this time. There was a huge٫ imposing٫ merman floating in the water٫ and golden crown on his head and matching triton in his hand.
"Ursula, stop! Let her go٫" he demanded.
Ursula appeared after٫ presenting a familiar looking contract in one tentacle. Beside her was Ariel٫ who was currently being held by the arm via the Witch's pet eels.
"Not a chance, Triton! She's mine now. But, I might be willing to make an exchange...for someone even better. Now, King Triton, do we have a deal?"
Before he could answer٫ the dream ended. The Sea Witch had been planning to use the girl's love to steal everything from the start.
These dreams felt like they were getting more and more realistic٫ almost like they weren't even dreams at all...
❥
In the morning٫ you once again woke up to furry suffocation. Grim had his fluffy tummy on top of your face while Leona used your stomach like his own personal pillow while simultaneously sprawled. Still٫ the lion somehow managed to maintain that iron tight hold on you so you'd stay in place. You'd grown used to waking up like some sort of children's cuddle toy. With Leona٫ you were at least able to delude yourself that it only happened while he was sleeping.
Soon٫ you heard him start to yawn٫ followed by exhausted grumbles.
"Good morning٫" you greeted.
"Huh...? What, you're up already?" He questioned٫ barely lifting his head to peer up at you٫ "You sure are bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Meanwhile, because of you, I'm sleep-deprived...Tch. I guess today IS the third day of the agreement. Just remember that come sundown, I might start chargin' rent if you're still here."
"Yeah٫ yeah. Can you get off of me now? Cauldrons weigh less than you٫" you quipped.
Leona hummed in response before answering٫ "Dunno. You're a pretty comfortable pillow."
"Leona!"
❥
Ace and Deuce went quiet after hearing your words. The silence was only truly broken when Jack spoke up.
"Are you serious right now?"
"Off to the Coral Sea we go!" You declared٫ gleefully clasping your hands together.
The motion threw the three of them off for a second before getting back on track again.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa...٫" Ace interrupted٫ "I thought we agreed that nabbing the photo under the sea was a no-go because the Leech brothers would stop us!"
"This plan seems reckless, even by my standards...٫" Deuce sighed.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk. Okay, kiddos, listen up and I'll go over the plan...٫" Grim tutted٫ but had to pause so he could cough and make a noise that sounded equivalent to hacking up a lung.
"You okay there? Got a furball or somethin'?" Ace raised a brow.
"No! I'm still gettin' over all the yowling I did yesterday٫" the direbeast answered in quiet exhaustion٫ "Mm, anyway, back on topic. Here's how this is gonna go..."
And٫ so٫ you and Grim explained your new plan in detail to the three of them.
"WHAAAAAT?!"
"Dude, are you serious?! This is crazy bold!" Ace exclaimed.
"Wow, ___. I always knew you were gutsy, but this is a fresh reminder," Deuce praised٫ a dazed look in his eyes.
"Will this really go the way you hope, though?" Jack worried.
"We've exhausted our leads and we have one day to go. ___'s idea is all we've got٫" Deuce reminded٫ "Not even a whole day, either. We've only got until sunset."
"I guess anything beats sitting on our thumbs waiting around for sundown٫" Ace supposed.
"All right. Fine. Stressin' over what-ifs won't get us anywhere٫" Jack finally caved. There was a slight sparkle behind his eyes as he began to praise you٫ "I gotta say, ___—nothing stops you once you put your mind to something."
"Sometimes our ___ here's a tad TOO daring, but what's life without a little spice?" Ace added٫ but seemed a nervous about the fact. "Okay, guys! Let's roll!"
Grim cheered along٫ "Time to get ourselves a photo from the Atlantica Memorial Museum!"
❥
"It's closed?!"
All five of you gaped in shock at the closed attraction. And today of all days...This had to have been planned by a certain octo mer.
"Are you kidding? What awful timing٫" Jack grumbled.
"Is that why the Leech brothers haven't harassed us at all today? Because they knew?" Deuce wondered.
"I dunno about that٫" Ace remarked.
"Are we really turning tail and going back empty-handed after coming all this way?" The wolf next to you monologued.
"Hold up! I've got an idea٫" the redhead interrupted and started to propose his plan.
"Mragh! Guess I shouldn't be surprised that merfolk society would have merfolk security guards.
"I mean, duh?" Deuce commented.
"Okay. I'm gonna distract the guard. In the meantime, you guys sneak in behind him and borrow the photo."
Either out of worry for Ace or for the plan going sideways٫ Jack asked٫ "Are you sure you can handle this by yourself?"
"You're honest to a fault, and Deuce would give himself away within minutes. Don't worry. I got this٫" he replied then turned towards you to add٫ "Wish me luck." With that٫ he gave you a wink and swam over to the guards to begin his performance.
"Awww, MAN! For realsies?!"
"Hm? Is something the matter?" The guard questioned.
"Is the museum really closed today? I can't believe this. I was super pumped for this visit..."
"Why, that's an odd tailfin you've got. Are you a land-dweller? Did you come all the way here by yourself?"
"Yes, sir! I've always admired merfolk society, ever since I was a kid. I scrimped and saved, got myself a magic potion, and now l've finally made it here! Duuude, a real live merman! This is SO COOL! Can I touch your fins? Can I have your autograph?!
"U-um, sure? Would you like to see my dorsal fin, too?"
Wow...He was actually pulling this off! The guy was actually flustering the guard٫ too! Damn٫ he was good at this. It was actually pretty...worrying for you. Had he done this to you before...? Well٫ the was a topic for another time! Right now٫ it was time to focus on that photo!
"That guy can lie like nobody's business. He ain't even battin' an eye!" Grim huffed.
"The guard's totally distracted. Let's move!" Deuce declared٫ nudging you forwards.
❥
"This is the place Azul mentioned, right?" Jack asked٫ looking around. "Here's a photo commemorating the visit of Horatio XII, court musician...Here's one of a fourth princess...There sure are a lot of these. I can see why he said nobody would notice if we borrowed one."
Deuce followed along٫ looking around٫ as well٫ "Where's that commemorative photo of Prince Rielle from ten years ago...? Ah, here we go. This is it, right? 'A visit from Prince Rielle and his schoolmates...' Looks like a photo of an elementary school field trip."
"There's a bunch of tiny merfolk in this pic٫" Grim noted.
"Of all the pictures here, why would he ask for this one specifically?" Jack wondered.
"I couldn't say... But once we bring it back, I can say goodbye to this sea anemone on my head! Just grab it and let's go already٫" Deuce joyfully announced.
Suddenly٫ you let out a loud gasp٫ scaring the guys.
"What's wrong?!"
"What happened?!"
"Look at that little cutie٫" you cooed٫ pointing at a pudgy٫ little mer child. He looked absolutely adorable! As well as strikingly familiar.
Before you could finish reaching for the photo to get a better look٫ Jack grabbed it for you. "Huh. It's not even rigged with an alarm. I guess it really is just a commemorative photo. This is kinda underwhelming."
"Hm? HEY! What are you doing there?!"
A guard called out٫ having just rounded the corner.
"Myah?! Uh-oh. It's a guard!"
"I don't like this one bit, but l've got no choice٫" Jack murmured٫ "Sorry, buddy. You need to take a little nap!"
❥
"...And I just loved that story my Grandma read me about a human prince and a mermaid princess."
"They made a movie out of that, you know. I saw it with my darling when I was younger! That was just about thirty years ago. No matter how many times I see it, that scene of the princess hugging her father gets me every time."
"I know, right?! That's, like, THE scene!"
"I'm surprised a kid your age has even watched it."
"Oh, my brother's a huge movie buff. That flick's top-tier. Soundtrack's legendary, too. Oh yeah, speaking of which—is it true that all merfolk are good singers?"
"Oh, far from it. That's an old urban legend. One of my own classmates is so tone-deaf, their singing is like nails on a rockboard."
"Ace is still goin' strong!" Grim observed.
"I'm impressed he can carry on a conversation with a complete stranger for so long٫" Deuce added.
"We got what we came for. We need to go, pronto٫" Jack pointed out.
"Ah, look at the time. I think l'd better get going٫" Ace feigned reluctance.
"Aw, are you sure? Seeing as you're such a big merfolk fan and all, I wouldn't mind giving you a little sneak peek at the museum while it's closed٫" the guard admitted.
"Nah. That'd be cheating, and cheaters never prosper. I'll be sure to check the museum hours before I mosey down here again. Later, man!"
Wow. That ass was even bullshitting about his moral compass. Him cheating was part of the reason you were in this whole mess!
"Feel free to come back anytime! It's not every day you meet a nice young fellow like that."
When Ace got back to the rest of you٫ he looked at you with a proud٫ shit eating grin. He looked like he was waiting for your praise٫ and maybe even applause with a dozen or two roses. So٫ you ignored him. Maybe if you did it enough٫ you could train him to behave like a dog. Wishful thinking...
"So, how'd it go on your end?" Ace asked.
"Photo acquired! Myeh heh heh. Couldn't have been easier٫" Grim announced٫ puffing out his chest fluff in pride.
"Great. Let's head back to campus, then."
"Right. I can't wait to shove this picture right in Azul's smug face٫" Deuce beamed.
"Wait٫" Jack cut in٫ putting an arm in front of you as a makeshift shield.
You soon saw why. Two long shadows started to quickly swim by. You had a bad feeling about this...
"Theeere you are, Little Shrimpy٫" Floyd called out.
"Hello٫ ___...and admirers...I see you've already forgotten your previous lesson and decided to try your luck in the deep again٫" Jade threatened٫ seemingly more directed at the others than you.
"It's the moray brothers!" Jack shouted٫ moving directly in front of you instead of just an arm.
"Booo! You're blocking Little Shrimpy٫" Floyd fussed with a pout.
"You appear to have gotten ahold of the photo٫" Jade observed٫ placing a hand to his chest.
"Oh٫ yeah! Nice, niiice! That's real smooth٫" Floyd congratulated. "But we wouldn't want you bringing it back so soon. Why don't we play a game of tag until sunset?"
"Typical. I knew we wouldn't make it home without a fight٫" Ace pointed out٫ "Lemme guess: your plan is to stall us in the water until sunset, then beat us up and snatch the goods. Then you'd get the photo AND you wouldn't have to take these anemones off!"
Jade chuckled٫ "Heh heh heh...Using minimal labor to achieve maximum profit is just good business sense."
"Wh- You guys really are crooked to the core!" Jack argued.
"Well, ___? What's your call?" Ace asked.
"Knowing you, there's no way you came this far without accounting for them٫" Deuce acknowledged.
You could only sigh. You did think over a possible run in with the Tweels. The thing was٫ though٫ you weren't a fan of the solution that would most definitely distract them the longest. However٫ you REALLY wanted this plan to work.
"Just keep the photo safe٫" you reminded them before looking back towards the twins٫ just managing to get past Jack. "You both still willing to show me around?
The shock of their faces grew increasingly visible. You heard one let out an excited gasp and the other suck in a breath. Inevitably٫ they were both grinning ear to ear.
"Really?! Alright٫ you already agreed٫ no take backs!" Floyd gleefully answered.
"Oh my٫ what a delightful outcome٫" Jade added٫ "Rest assured٫ I'm sure you'll be delighted by our little tour.
Before they could actually grab you٫ the guys from your team yanked you back٫ complaints incredibly audible in your ears.
"Absolutely not!"
"No way in hell!"
"Over my dead body!"
"What in Seven's name are you thinking?!"
"Hey٫ I already said no take backs٫" Floyd warned٫ his tone becoming dangerously low.
"Yes٫ ___ already agreed to our invitation. It would be just awful to cause them to break their promise٫" Jade concurred.
"And it'd be irresponsible of us to let them go with creeps like you both!" Ace yelled back.
"Now٫ that's just rude٫" the eel remarked٫ his tone dropping to the same level as his twin's.
"How about you hand over Little Shrimpy AND the photo٫ and I'll see about sending you back to your dorms in one piece٫ 'kay?" Floyd began to threaten again.
"You won't lay a hand on them!" Jack growled٫ preparing to attack in your defense.
❥
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑶𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒊𝒅𝒆:
"Heh...It seems Jade and Floyd have matters well in hand. Now Ramshackle Dorm and the photo are as good as mine. And٫ perhaps٫ even a new method of wrangling those two in. Hm hm hm...Ha ha ha ha ha!"
A sudden knock at the door made Azul have to cut his villain monologue short. Before barely finishing the knock٫ an Octavinelle student barged through the door in a panic.
"Pardon me, Mr. Manager!"
"What is it, and where's your indoor voice?"
"Sorry, sir. The Mostro Lounge is dealing with a problem right now..."
"Of what nature?"
"Some customers are arguing and getting rowdy, and Jade and Floyd are out right now..."
"Really, now. What kind of unmannerly lout starts a scene in a dining establishment? Very well. I'll be right there. I'm sure Jade and Floyd will handle things well enough on their own. Dear me..."
Azul sighed٫ but still made his way to find the cause of the issue٫ although rather begrudgingly. However٫ he didn't need to go very far to see the problem. Hordes of rowdy Savanaclaw students were running amok٫ causing massive amounts of chaos and damage.
"What is the meaning of this? We've barely opened our doors for the day. How is everything already in such disarray?!" Azul screamed.
"HEY! I want my drink and I want it NOW!"
"Meat! Meat! Hyaaa ha ha ha!"
"Hey, that's MY meat! I ordered that!"
The manager swerved between the wild customers٫ announced his presence as he passed٫ "Clear the way. Coming through! Excuse me!"
"It's cool, you're excused٫" a runtier Savanaclaw second year obliged with a laugh٫ "Shyeheehee."
"Hey, waiter! I need a refill!"
"Yessir! Be right there, sir!"
"Housewarden! We've been so flooded with orders that our stock of food for the day has run out!" An Octavinelle student cried out٫ flanked by his peers.
"We're running low on beverages, too!" Another added.
"Already?! Fine. So be it. I'll get some cash from the vault. You make a quick run to the school store and...hm?" Azul stilled٫ "Ah! I-it's gone! The vault key is gone! Oh, no...Oh, no!"
With that newest realization in mind٫ the mer made a mad dash back to the VIP lounge. Back in the lounge٫ he found a very smug-looking lion perched right on his desk.
"Hey there, cephalo-punk."
"Leona Kingscholar...!"
"What's a calm, collected guy like you doing in such a tizzy?"
"It's none of your business. What are you doing here, anyway?"
"Funny you should ask. Y'see, l've got this key here. Yours, I believe? I found it on the floor and had a feeling it was yours. So I'm bringing it back."
Out of nowhere٫ a key began to dangle from Leona's fingers٫ immediately grasping Azul's attention.
"H-hey! That's—"
"I knew it. Bingo٫" the lion practically purred٫ basking in the mer's masked desperation.
"Give that back this instant. Theft is a serious crime!"
"Hah. Here I'm playing nice and bringing it right to you, and you're treating me like a common thief? Fine. Here, it's all yours."
Leona tossed it to him. Azul fumbled with the key for a few moments before finally grabbing it and let out a relieved sigh.
"That's all I'm here for. See you around٫" Leona concluded. He started to make his way towards the door٫ but stopped after passing Azul. "Oh٫ and don't think I didn't realize what you're trying to do. No one baits me with what's already mine..." Then٫ he left without another word.
Azul was frozen for a couple of movements before finally remembering his original purpose for rushing back to the the room.
"The contracts...Are the contracts there?!"
He hurried over and quickly unlocked the vault door to find it completely empty.
"Gh—!!! They're...gone. Gone, gone, gone!
The contract scrolls are nowhere to be found! Was it...him?!"
❥
"Shyeheehee! Managed to swipe 'em without a hitch, huh?"
"Y'know, your compulsive pickpocketing never ceases to amaze me٫" Leona commended the laughing hyena in front of him.
"Hey, if you wanna keep somethin' safe, you gotta keep your pockets secured too٫" Ruggie joked٫ "I'm still not over how many contract scrolls there are. I count around five to six hundred."
"Hmph. He's probably been trapping people in contracts and stockpiling 'em since long before he enrolled٫" the third year brushed off٫ "Now that we've got the contracts outside the VIP room, that just leaves one thing to do..."
Leona started to cast his signature spell٫ but was abruptly interrupted by another.
"Hold it!" Azul called out.
"Whoops. That was quick٫" the lion noted with a smug grin٫ "Don't come any closer, or the contracts are toast."
"G-give them back...Give them back now, if you please!"
Leona began to mock him٫ "Hey now, at least try to sound composed. Have you decided to drop the cool act altogether? Judging by the way you're panicking, they were right on the money."
"Wait...What?"
Amused by your sly thinking٫ Leona began to recall to Azul about your conversation from the previous night: about how the contracts weren't unbreakable and the zapping was just for show٫ as well as your plan to remove them from the vault.
"This was ___'s idea?! Why? Why am I being hassled like this?! And by some darling٫ no less! ___ stands to gain nothing whatsoever from releasing the anemones! It's ridiculous!"
"Frankly, I couldn't agree more٫" Leona expressed. "So, Azul...How about you and I make a deal?"
"I'm...sorry?"
"What are you prepared to offer me if I return these contracts to you?" The prince mused.
"I-l'I do anything٫" Azul desperately offered٫ "I'll give you all the study guides you want. l'll write your graduation thesis. I'll pad your attendance. I'll even help you capture that pesky darling of yours٫ even if it might upset Jade and Floyd...Anything—just name it!"
"Interesting. That's a pretty tempting offer٫" Leona hummed.
"Then—"
"Here's the thing, though٫" he stopped the mer٫ "No offense, but none of that's gonna be enough to justify me returning these contracts."
"What?"
"See, ___'s got me over a barrel right now. If I don't help Team Ramshackle dispose of these contracts, they'll make a huge racket outside my room every day until morning. Plus٫ I have my pride. What good yandere would have someone else capture their darling prove their worthy to care for said darling for 'em."
"Huh...?"
"Basically٫ I'm not interested in some slimy punk doing my job for me. Besides٫ I never expected the chase to be so entertaining."
"THAT'S what this is all about?!"
"You're attempting to take their ability to freely frolic about that I worked so hard to allow so that you can chain them up and sell 'em to the highest bidder. Sorry٫ Azul٫ but hunting's much more fun when your prey thinks they have freedom٫ and I dont feel like bidding."
"R-ridiculous...Don't do it!" Azul shouted٫ but was unable to do anything.
"Now...'Kneel before me!' King's Roar!"
"NOOOOO!!!"
Each and everyone of the contracts turned to sand٫ the grains falling between Leona's fingers to the ground.
"Ah...Aaah...Aaaaah! My...My...My golden contracts...All...reduced to dust..."
"Azul's signature spell, It's a Deal...Once the contract scroll is signed, it cannot be damaged, regardless of how many people try٫" Ruggie mocked.
"You made a show of how unbreakable it was several times, just to hammer that impression home...٫" Leona recalled٫ "But there's no such thing as a spell that's completely flawless. From what I saw, it looked like they were impervious to damage only under specific conditions. Namely, either being in the VIP room, or being in your hands. And judging by how easily my magic turned them to sand, I was right. The contract scrolls themselves are no stronger than any other sheet of paper."
"I...I don't believe this...٫" Azul murmured.
"Shyeheehee! Outsmarted by a darling. I hear that's blackmail worthy in the Coral Sea٫" Ruggie snickered before looking back at Leona٫ "I've been wonderin' why you'd go to all this trouble, and I think l've finally figured it out."
"Oh yeah?"
"You've made a contract with Azul before. This whole thing is a way for you to play hero while also conveniently getting rid of it."
"Hah...Nobody likes a snoop, y'know. I'm just a nice guy who can't ignore a poor٫ helpless herbivore in need, that's all. Heh heh٫" Leona chuckled.
Ruggie laughed٫ "Haw! Listen to you, laughin' at your own jokes. I should've taken a peek at what kinda contract you made before you sanded 'em down."
"Ah... Ahhh...٫" Azul started to sound.
"Hm?"
"Aaah, aaaaah...NGAAAAAH! I HATE THIIIS!"
"Huh?!"
Both beastmen took a few steps back٫ utterly bewildered at their peer's outburst. Their ears were unsure whether to perk up in surprise or pin back from the sheer volume of Azul's wails.
"It's gone. My carefully amassed collection of magic...My omnipotent power...٫" Azul lamented.
"What in the world?" Leona gaped.
"Talk about changin' your tune...٫" Ruggie nervously grinned.
"All of it, up in smoke! How could you DO this to me?! Without that, I...I...I'm back to being that 'silly little octo-twerp' again! That's the last thing I want...I refuse, I refuse, I REFUSE! I don't WANNA go back to being my old self again!"
A dark٫ ominous aura began to unveil itself٫ growing due to feeding on Azul's current state.
"What's going on?! There's a black aura growing...٫" Leona observed in shock once again.
"This is your fault for gettin' his hopes up and then dashing 'em on the rocks, Leona!" Ruggie accused. "Okay, Azul. Let's all just...take a deep breath and chill for a second. Okay?"
"SHUT! UP!!! You don't know me! You don't know my life! All that time I spent being roundly mocked for my weakness...My intellect...Nobody could EVER understand!"
Azul soon went silent before starting to chuckle٫ "Heh. Heh heh heh...Of course. It's so simple. If you lose something...just take it back. Give them to me. Come on. I want your prowesses...GIVE THEM TO MEEE!"
❥
𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝑺𝒊𝒅𝒆:
"What was that flash?" Jack loudly questioned.
"Hm...? Hey! Deuce, your sea anemone's gone!" Ace pointed out.
"Whoa! You're right!" Deuce marveled.
"So's mine! Yours too, Ace!" Grim pointed at Ace's head. "Sweet! Leona and Ruggie pulled through!"
"Wait. Come again?" Jade asked in stunned shock.
"What's goin' on here?" Floyd demanded.
"We cut a deal with Leona an' Ruggie to get them in on our plan٫" Grim proudly explained.
"Say what? The guy's basically a sea lion, sleepin' his days away. He'd never lift a finger to help you guys. Unless...٫" Floyd's expression once again soured.
"I was under the impression he had no interest in creating disputes with his fellow housewarden, Azul. However٫ these days he seems rather content bending to a certain someone's will...٫" Jade contributed٫ becoming just about as sour-faced as his twin٫ but still managed to mask it better.
Oblivious to the eels' irritation٫ Grim went on to further elaborate the birth of your plan٫ "See, ___ made this offer...If Leona helped us take back Ramshackle Dorm, we'd leave his room tomorrow without a fuss. But if he didn't help, we'd keep raisin' a racket outside his room all night, every night. Then we gave him a...'live demo,' I'll call it, to show how annoying it'd be. We basically yowled our lungs out until daybreak, and now we're super sleep-deprived."
"Whoa...٫" the twins commented.
"No wonder you were so hoarse this morning, Grim٫" Deuce recalled.
"That sounds less like a deal and more like a threat to me. Especially if it's from Baby Seal٫" Floyd thought aloud.
"You know what they say: one bad turn deserves another٫" Jack remembered.
"My wind magic's back, too٫" Ace noticed٫ "It's time to turn the tables here!"
"I summon thee, cauldron!" Deuce casted٫ "...Sweet, it worked!"
"Myaaah! I can't even tell if I got my fire magic back or not in all this water! That ain't fair!"
"Somehow I think we'll manage without your parlor tricks٫" Ace teased.
"We'd best be getting back, Floyd. If the anemones are gone from their heads...٫" Jade began.
"Yeah, I got a real bad feelin' about this٫" Floyd agreed.
"Not so fast. Where do you think you're going now that we're finally in fighting shape?" Deuce demanded.
"Where's the fun in turning tail now? Stick around and play with us٫" Ace crossed his arms with a grin.
"You small-fry pipsqueaks...٫" Floyd all but growled٫ "I'll have you cryin' before you know it."
"Floyd, ignore them! Ugh. Too late٫" Jade trailed off.
Now without the previous restrictions٫ the battle was almost even between both sides.
"Nnngh, for cryin' out loud! These guys are getting on my nerves!" Floyd complained.
"We need to go, Floyd. I don't think we have the luxury of toying with them any longer٫" Jade reminded.
"Tch...Fine. Let's move٫" the former relented.
Those on your team were currently too busy basking in their momentary victory that they failed to notice the eel swiftly swimming between them and were unable to react quick enough to protect you from getting nabbed by said eel.
"C'mon٫ Little Shrimpy. We gotta hurry back٫" Floyd stated٫ now in one of the most serious states you've ever seen him.
You felt yourself subconsciously wrap your arms tightly around his neck٫ scared to find out what might happen if you let go. That seemed to cheer him up a bit. Behind you٫ you could see your team desperately trying to catch up.
❥
Once making it back to Octavinelle's dorm house٫ you could see Azul forcibly taking the magic of every student in sight. You quickly noticed٫ though٫ that he wasn't using those golden contract scrolls anymore.
"You there—give me your lightning magic! And you, give me your athletic ability! Give it all to me! All of it!"
A shriek erupted from the Scarabia student he'd victimized before the poor boy collapsed to the ground as a light was shown being forcefully removed from him.
"What's Azul sucking outta these people?! They're all collapsing after he's done with 'em!" Ruggie yelled in a panic.
"Looks like his signature spell sucks EVERY power out of someone if it's not channeled through a contract٫" Leona observed٫ "I'm betting the contract is like a filter that limits his magic's effects."
"What?! Kinda terrifying, don'tcha think?"
"Yeah. The backlash from using taboo magic like that is gonna exceed his blot tolerance in no time."
"Azul! What are you doing?!" Jade called out٫ taking hurried steps in his housewarden's direction.
"Whoa, yikes. What's goin' on here?" Floyd wondered and he looked around as he followed close behind his brother.
The eel was still carrying you with him٫ having refused to let go since returning from the Coral Sea. Honestly٫ it reminded you of a child with their security blanket. Floyd held you tighter the closer you got into the madness.
"Dude, this does NOT look good!" Ace yelped٫ slowing his steps from behind your shady captor at the sight of the chaos.
"Is Azul going out of control?!" Deuce questioned in a panic.
"Looks like he's sucking different students' powers outta them by force٫" Jack pointed out.
"Eeep...Leona! You were bullyin' him, weren't you?!" Grim immediately accused.
"Now you're blaming me? You're the ones who told me to turn the contracts into sand٫" Leona argued back.
You had a vague idea of why might happen if Azul kept this up. Something you were growing all too familiar with. "Something that rarely happens" your ass٫ Crowley! If this EVER happens again on his watch٫ you might just go to media or something! Yeah٫ you didn't really have a solid Plan B...
"Jade! Floyd! Ahhh, you've finally come back to me٫" Azul called out in return٫ "Would you believe that thanks to these FOOLS, l've lost all of my contracts? Which is why I'm going to need your powers now.
Come on, give them to me!"
"Hold on. Your signature spell is so powerful, it's impossible to control without a contract scroll٫" Jade reminded٫ "You know better than anyone what will happen if you do this!"
"But I lost it all, you see? Everything! Aha ha...AHA НА НА! l'm going to revert back to my old self if i don't act now!"
"Y know, Azul, I never saw you as lame before. But now? The way you're actin' is pretty lame٫" Floyd huffed٫ "Plus٫ you're scaring Little Shrimpy."
Huh? Did you look scared? If anything٫ you felt kinda dead at the moment. You were also mentally writing your will; everything goes to Grim. Wow٫ you hated this damn school...
"Ooohhh, is that a fact? I'm just a silly little octo-twerp who can't do anything on his own. That's why I'm going to take everyone's powers. I will rise above your perceptions. A beautiful singing voice! Powerful magics! All of it, MINE! Hand it all over at once!"
With his words٫ black goop began go pour out from Azul. It was that same substance you were growing to loathe even the mention of.
"What's all that black gunk drippin' outta Azul? That...ain't ink, is it?" Floyd nearly panicked٫ holding you tighter in a protective hold.
"He's using his signature spell too much. The blot is exceeding his cumulative tolerance! If he doesn't stop...he's going to overblot!"
The panic was evident in Jade's voice. Despite their claims and how they constantly acted٫ you could tell the two of them really cared for Azul.
Azul only laughed in a crazed daze as the blot seeping out of him increased in volume. It wasn't long until a large silhouette appeared behind him٫ soon materializing and splattering more of the goopy substance on him. It look of momentary panic seemed to dawn on Azul's face as the creature's tentacles wrapped themselves around him. Once free from the monster's grasp٫ it was no longer Azul٫ but now what looked to be more akin to a puppet on a string. His form had been switched entirely into an octopus state٫ but in a way seemingly more monstrous than how the Tweels first appeared.
"Myah! His legs turned into octopus tentacles!"
"That's Azul's underwater form٫" Jade explained.
"What's that behind him? It's so big, I couldn't squeeze it if I tried!"
"A blot monster; they always show up during an overblot٫" you subconsciously replied٫ using your own made up terminology.
At your words٫ Floyd remembered how he still had you in his arms. He quickly carried you over to a more secure spot behind everyone and patted you head.
"Stay safe٫ Little Shrimpy."
"Focus on getting Azul back to his senses for now٫" Leona announced.
"Yeah, otherwise we're gonna get the sea anemone treatment ourselves!" Ruggie added on.
You were٫ of course٫ made to stay back as the went on. It seems some people present did not trust you even near the scene due to last time's events. Landing the finishing blow was apparently not "cool" or "totally badass" when it involves you actively around the danger. This time٫ you could only shout out warnings and minorly helpful tips as the others fought.
At some point٫ you noticed Azul look as if he were trying to convince Jade and Floyd of something.
"Let's make a deal, you and me..."
"I'd go for it if this was the regular Azul talking, but you? Nah٫" Floyd denied.
"I couldn't agree more٫" Jade followed.
Azul did not seem all to pleased with their answers٫ instead growing rather enraged. Invigorated by his new wave of anger٫ Azul doubled down on his attacks. He was so focused on maintaining whatever pride he had left that he had made sure to leave no room for a faulty defense. Azul was completely and utterly focused٫ leaving no blind spots in offense or defense.
You felt as if you couldn't just sit there and watch while hidden. You had to do something. Now that you thought about it٫ you remembered just how obsessed he seemed to be with that photo. Actually٫ what was it about that photo of those cute little mer children was he so obsessed with— Wait!
You rushed over to Jack٫ doing your best to dodge any flying debris from the ongoing battle. His ears must've picked up on your presence since they turned to your direction before his head did. The sight of you out of hiding seemed to greatly distress him.
"___?! Wh-what're you doing out—!" He began٫ but you cut him off.
"The photo! I need the photo!"
"What? Why?!"
"You'll see! Now give it٫ please!"
As soon as Jack took it from where he had hidden it٫ you instantly snatched it. Holding up to photo to Azul in his current form٫ you quickly saw the similarities. That adorably round little octo mer was Azul! That's why he wanted it! But how could anyone be so resentful about being such a cute kid. Well٫ it didn't matter now. You had everything you needed to put your plan in action.
"Wait! Where're you going?!" Jack called out٫ but you weren't listening.
With the photograph in hand٫ you ran farther away from the others to a spot you knew Azul would see you. Sure٫ this had a fairly big chance to fail٫ but it was the only way you could think of to redirect Azul's attention. You just had to hope the other's would understand what you were doing.
"Hey٫ Azul! Is this what you were hoping for?" You cupped a hand to your mouth in an attempt to louden your voice and waved the photo above your head with the other hand.
Azul's attention diverted rather quickly٫ now almost entirely focused on you.
"Y-yes! Ahem! Now why don't you give that photo here٫ hm?" Azul suggested٫ intentionally lowering his tone as if he were speaking to a child. He slowly drew closer to you٫ alarming the others. However٫ you noticed the Tweels signaling for them to hold off for the moment.
"Then why don't you come and get it!" You taunted in a yell.
Almost as if following your words٫ Azul began to lunge towards you. Midway through٫ however٫ another voice once again stole his attention٫ causing confusion.
"Azul!" Jade shouted before quickly casting one last spell. "Hyah!"
With that final spell٫ Azul was knocked out of his frenzy٫ his unconscious body٫ skidding to the side. With the last of your adrenaline٫ you rushed over to Azul and dropped to your knees before making sure he was still breathing. He was...
❥
When Azul finally woke up٫ you were still being scolded for doing something so reckless.
"Ngh...٫" Azul groaned٫ his head resting on one of your thighs from where you sat on the ground next to him.
"Oh, hey, you're awake٫" Floyd pointed out.
"Azul, how many fingers am I holding up?" Jade asked٫ holding up four fingers.
"Er...Eight?" He hesitantly answered.
"Still in shock, it seems٫" his vice mused٫ "But your blot-induced rampage has subsided at last."
"That little tantrum you threw really put us through the wringer, y'know٫" Leona complained٫ putting a hand to his head.
"Uh, Leona, I'm not sure you get to say that٫" Ruggie commented.
"What did I...do?" Azul questioned٫ swiftly sitting up.
"You overused your magic and overblotted٫" Jade recalled٫ "You don't remember it?"
"You were sucking everybody's magic dry left and right, bawlin', 'Give me your poweeerrr!'" Floyd reenacted٫ "It was the cringiest thing I've ever seen. I'm still not over it."
"Oh, no...Me, going berserk? I don't believe this..."
"Hey, I can't exactly blame a guy for gettin' bent outta shape when something you've been building up for years gets ruined٫" Ruggie sighed٫ "I mean, if someone broke the coin bank l've been saving my money in, l'd hold a grudge for life."
"But all those shady business dealings have gotta stop. You oughta learn from this٫" Grim scolded; you honestly felt a little proud at the sight.
"How about you guys learn not to coast through exams using someone else's notes?!" Jack remarked.
"I'm still amazed Grim got an 85, actually٫" you commented.
"...What?" Azul asked.
"Y'know, it's true. One all-nighter reading that study guide you wrote was enough to bag me over a go on my exams٫" Ace added.
"Yeah. It was seriously on point٫" Deuce commended.
"I heard from the headmage that you wrote that guide yourself, analyzing a whole century's worth of test question trends٫" Jack recalled٫ "I'm still not okay with your shady practices, but your work took serious guts. That much I'll admit."
"Hmph. Your clumsy attempts at consolation aren't helping me in the least٫" Azul sighed.
"Awww, what's the matter? Are you gettin' teary-eyed, Azul?" Floyd teased.
"Dear me. You've gone back to that ink-spewing crybaby again٫" Jade joined in.
"Hey! You two signed an NDA covering that exact topic!" Azul fussed.
"Right you are. My mistake٫" Jade hummed.
"Oh yeah, that reminds me...___ has that photo of Prince Rielle you asked for. We got ahold of it. The sun hasn't set yet. I think that seals our victory."
"Oh٫ yeah٫" you remembered٫ taking out the photo with a very poorly hidden grin.
"What's this? It's just some picture of a buncha mermen fingerlings huddled in front of a camera٫" Leona stated.
"Is it some kinda group photo of an elementary school class? What'd you want it for, anyway?" Ruggie wondered.
"Aha ha, that takes me back! This is a picture from our school field trip٫" Floyd pointed out٫ "Me 'n Jade are right here. Aaand...See the kid sulking way off in the corner? That's baby Azul!"
So you were right! And٫ huh٫ the Tweels didn't look all that different compared to now with their eel forms. They were still pretty cute kids٫ though.
"What?!"
"AAAH!!! No!" Azul screeched٫ reaching for the photo٫ "Don't look! Please don't look!"
"Well well, Azul. You sure are spirited all of a sudden. Shouldn't you get a little more sleep?" Jade taunted٫ holding Azul back٫ "Considering how far things have already gone, it would be easier for you to let this one go."
"Let's see here٫" Ace announced.
"What's in the corner...?" Leona asked.
"Are you talkin' about the octopus who's more rounded than any of the mer-kids, even holding the pic at an angle?" Ruggie wondered.
"Whoa, Azul! I never knew you used to look like that!" Grim exclaimed.
"Aww. You were such a cute٫ little baby٫" you cooed at the picture.
Azul cheeks grew a firey red. He soon covered his whole face and began to loudly yell٫ "AAAaaaAAAaaaAAAaaah!!!"
"I...get it. I totally get what you're feeling٫" Deuce confided٫ "Everybody's got a past they wish they could erase! I saw nothing! Neither did the rest of you, okay?! Never speak of this again!"
"Never pegged you as this, uh...passionate٫" Jack noted.
"Aaargh...٫" Azul groaned٫ "I was going to expand the Mostro Lounge with a branch cafe and simultaneously erase the shame of my boyhood...It was supposed to be the perfect plan! Two birds with one stone!"
"Hey, you know what they say: a rabbit in hand is worth two in the bush٫" Ruggie mused with a shrug.
Azul ranted on٫ "I got my schoolmates' yearbooks and the negatives from the photographer...I succeeded in laying claim to every single old photo of me through a whole web of deals...But there just wasn't any legal way to dispose of that one last photo."
"That doesn't mean it's cool to make other people do your dirty work for you!" Grim fussed.
"I don't see the big deal, really. I like the old Azul٫" Floyd admitted٫ "He'd make a better meal than the one we've got now."
"That's not the point at all!" Azul nearly squealed.
"You don't have to be that hung up on hiding it٫" you comforted٫ "Besides٫ chunky babies are definitely way cuter."
Azul sniffled٫ his cheeks heating up even further from your comment٫ "This is the worst. I could crawl into an octopus pot right now."
"Anyway. We held up our end of the deal and brought the photo to you within the deadline you gave us٫" Jack reminded٫ "We've completely fulfilled your terms."
"Yeah. Real shame about the contracts gettin' sanded before we did٫" Grim smirked.
"But stealing just doesn't sit right with me٫" Jack admitted٫ "Azul, you're a law-abiding sorta guy, right? Take some responsibility and return the picture back to where it belongs."
"We can return it together٫" you offered.
"Fine...But at least let me switch it out for a version where I've been edited out of the picture٫" Azul begged.
"No!" You protectively pulled the photo against your chest.
"Hah. You just don't know when to let something go٫" Leona observed.
"They're right, you know. Records are a valuable treasure٫" Jade contributed.
"Ooh, field trip! When do we go? We're goin' as a group, right? I call Little Shrimpy as my buddy!" Floyd gleefully claimed٫ "I haven't been to the Atlantica Memorial Museum since our elementary school field trip. This is gonna rule!"
Soon٫ noticed Grim starting to sniff around for something.
"Hm? Yo, Grim. What are you sniffing at the ground for?" Ace wondered.
"My gourmet hunting instincts are tellin' me...that there's a pitch-black treat as delectable as a truffle around here!"
"What are you, a truffle hog?!" The redhead gaped in bewilderment.
"Myah! There it is—a black stone! There's no foolin' gourmet hunter Grim's nose!"
"A...black stone?" Leona questioned.
"Time to chow down! HOMPH!"
And٫ he ate it in one bite...the gluttonous beast...
"Mmm...It's rich, with a briny punch like salted squid guts...This would drive any discerning gourmand wild! Seriously top-tier stuff!"
"Really? You're eating off the ground AGAIN?" Deuce condemned.
"Feels like a waste of breath to even tell him to stop at this point. There's just no accounting for a monster's palate٫" Ace groaned.
"Hey. Does that weasel always pick up black stones off the ground and eat them?" Leona asked.
"Not constantly, but...Grim can be such a glutton sometimes٫" you answered with the exhaustion equivalent to a mother of a misbehaved toddler.
"Something wrong, Leona?" Jack wondered.
"Nah. Don't mind me٫" Leona brushed off.
❥
It was nice to finally be home٫ or at least the closest thing you had to one here. You were honestly starting to grow comforted by the old٫ decrepit dorm house.
You stood outside the gates٫ admiring the rundown building thats grown to be a comfort to you. Soon٫ you noticed those floating lights again٫ their soft٫ greenish hue enchanting you.
"Ah. You've returned. Who would have ever expected you to win a bet with Ashengrotto?For as doe-eyed as you look, you're quite the schemer٫" a familiar figure praised as he appeared next to you.
"Your advice got me there, Hornton. What you said about gargoyles was just the hint I needed٫" you gleefully thanked him. The boy look quite caught off guard by your excitement٫ his cheeks faintly heating up due to your warmth.
"Really? I wasn't trying to offer some cryptic clue or the like٫" he commented. A soft smile began to grace his features as he placed a hand on your head and let out a chuckle٫ "Heh. In any case, I'm glad to know this garden will remain nice and quiet. Ashengrotto's calm features contorting in frustration must have been quite the sight. Would that I could have been a fly on the wall."
You both sat in a comfortable silence for a minute before Hornton looked off towards the distance and let out a sigh. "Mm...It seems I had best be returning to my dorm now. I bid you good night."
With his words٫ the boy gave a small٫ polite bow and disappeared.
A few moments after٫ you saw Silver and Sebek rushing around nearby.
"Well? Is he here?" Silver asked.
"No, I don't believe he's present in the vicinity٫" Sebek observed.
"Perhaps he's near the western schoolhouse٫" Silver suggested.
"How could you go on an excursion unescorted?!" Sebek lamented and pointed a finger at Silver٫ "This is your fault for taking your eyes off of him, Silver!"
Even from where you were٫ you could overhear Silver grumble٫ "He's not a baby. Personally, I think you're worried to an inordinate degree."
Upset by his companions words٫ Sebek began scolding him٫ "It won't be so inordinate if something happens to him. You must never relax, even for a second! Or do you not understand the gravity of your duty as guardsman?! You are lucky that he and Lilia took you in and raised you despite your humanity. Don't you dare forget it!"
Silver could only manage out a sigh before replying٫ "I think we're getting off track..."
Without all of their squabbling٫ they probably could've already found who or whatever it was they were looking for. What were they looking for٫ anyway? It almost sounded like they were searching for some lost child.
❥
Later into the night٫ you were finally able to rest in your own bed. Beside you٫ Grim was already completely knocked out.
"Aaah...Now that's a whopper of a fish...I can't eat all that...٫" he mumbled in his sleep٫ letting out random purrs every so often.
It was nice to be back in your own space٫ just as you expected it would be. It was especially nice after such an exhausting day. You were so exhausted that you almost hadn't noticed the mirror above the fireplace beginning to glow. Was this another dream...?
Getting up٫ you began to approach the newly illuminated object. You felt almost like you were in some strange trance with each new step. Then٫ you heard knocking from the other side٫ followed by a voice.
"...lo?...ear me? Is...anybody there?"
Suddenly a figure appeared amidst the fog like state from across the mirror٫ only its silhouette visible. What...just happened?
❥
You had a hard time falling asleep after last night's events. The only reason you were able to convince yourself the whole thing wasn't a dream was the vivid memory you had of the whole event.
In the morning٫ your brain was still trying to wrap itself around any possible reasoning it could for the scene until a loud banging on the front door knocked you out of your daydreaming. Thinking it was the usual suspects٫ Ace and Deuce٫ you ignored it since the two would typically just invite themselves in after a moment or so. This time٫ however٫ the incessant knocking didn't stop until you actively got up and answered it. To your surprise٫ it was two different٫ much taller٫ nuisances.
"Morning, Little Shrimpy, Baby Seal!" Floyd greeted٫ "We're here to get you. It's time to go!"
"Erk! Whenever I see you two, I'm always worried you're schemin' something. Makes my heart skip a beat٫" Grim grumbled from where he was perched on your shoulder.
"Please. We would never dream of getting rough with those who aren't in breach of contract٫" Jade guaranteed٫ "The weather's quite clear today—perfect for an outing. On that note..."
"Off we go to the Atlantica Memorial Museum!" Floyd cheered.
"Azul's arranged it so that we'll have the whole museum booked for ourselves. He's already gone ahead and is waiting for us on-site٫" the former twin delightedly elaborated.
"You'd better not have doctored the photo, okay?" You huffed٫ crossing your arms.
"We haven't. I've taken full responsibility for keeping the photo in safe custody٫" Jade reassured.
"Oh٫ hey! Maybe after٫ we can show you around the sea a bit like you asked٫" Floyd excitedly added.
"If your offer to let us still stands٫ of course٫" Jade cut in.
You sighed٫ "We'll see..."
"Yay!" The more hyper of the twins celebrated while grabbing your hand. "C'mon, let's move. Time's a-wastin'!"
❥
"Duuude! WILD. So this is what it's like inside٫" Ace gawked٫ looking around with eyes wide as snow globes.
"There's a statue of a legendary Sea King. Huh. I guess there're more famous figures around these parts than just the Sea Witch٫" Deuce noted.
"Wow. That king's pretty ripped٫" Jack admired٫ his hands on his hips.
"Welcome, everyone, to the Atlantica Memorial Museum٫" Azul welcomed٫ "The Mostro Lounge will be holding a study tour today. Or at least, that's the purpose of our visit on paper. Regardless, I bid you take your time and enjoy yourselves."
"There you are, octo-tentacle Azul! Only...you're not. Are you just stayin' in human form?" Grim wondered with a tilt of his little head.
You hadn't even noticed yourself mimicking the direbeast's little movement until you heard Ace and Deuce snickered at the two of you. You shot them a glare.
"Yes. Betentacled mermen like myself aren't common around these parts. I wouldn't want to draw any undue attention to myself when our job is to return a photo on the sly٫" Azul explained٫ but you doubted that was the actual reasoning.
"I see no reason to be concerned. No one would see the cute chubby little merman in the picture and connect that it's you٫" Jade chuckled٫ currently matching his brother in their natural forms.
"It wouldn't hurt you any to swim around in your real form on a trip home! Why limit yourself to two legs when you can have eight?" Floyd pondered.
"Hmph. Just drop it, please٫" their housewarden pleaded٫ "I'm going to slip the photo back in its spot. The rest of you, feel free to explore the museum."
You watched as the others began to wander around٫ making jokes and examining the displays.
"Hey, check it out. There's a display for the mermaid princess's silver hair comb٫" Floyd pointed out.
"I saw a picture of that in the pamphlet before. That's clearly a fork, not a comb, right?" Ace hesitantly asked.
Jade creeped up behind the redhead while eerily chuckling٫ "Heh heh heh...Maybe that's how it looks to you land-dwellers."
Azul was quick to notice you staying behind٫ similar to him. Curious٫ he asked "You're not joining them?"
"I'm keeping an eye on you until the photo's back in place٫" you playfully jested.
He must not have caught the amused lilt in your voice٫ you supposed٫ as he began to sigh.
"You're so suspicious. I'll put it back right now."
True to his words٫ Azul did place the photo back in its rightful place. As he did٫ you heard him begin to speak in a hushed tone٫ "I thought that if I could erase every photo of my past...could erase my past itself—my youth spent mocked as a slow, dimwitted octo-twerp. The Sea Witch never hid her past misdeeds. She worked to restore her reputation, and earned the people's respect that way. I kept saying I wanted to be like her...But in the end, I couldn't accept my own past. I kept rejecting it."
"You've got a far greater power than magic, you know٫" you stated.
"What...?"
"Your incredible diligence is so rare, it left the headmage at a loss. Y'know٫ Diligence is way harder to master than magic٫" you praised٫ nudging your shoulder against his.
"You...You think?" Azul froze up٫ his cheeks beginning to burn a deep pink from what you believed to be bashfulness from your direct compliment. Then٫ he tried to force out a casual chuckle٫ "Heh. You needn't try so hard to butter me up. All I wanted to do was get back at the kids who made fun of me."
"Hey, ___! You wouldn't believe the size of the dinosaur bones they had back there!" Grim called out as he rounded a nearby corner. The little guy must've just realized he'd lost your scent.
"That wasn't a dinosaur. It was a sea dragon—a type of undersea monster٫" Jade informed٫ following close behind Grim with Floyd. "The Sea Witch's cave entrance was built out of sea dragon bones...or so the tales claim."
"They've got a replica of the Sea Witch's cauldron, too٫" Floyd joined in٫ starting to grab your arm and pull you along٫ "You gotta come see it٫ Little Shrimpy!"
"Really? They have cauldrons under the sea, too?" Deuce marveled.
"How do you heat things up in the water, anyway?" Ace wondered in mental exhaustion.
"Uhhh...Beats me. Azul, you tell' em!" Floyd egged on.
"Very well. Fair warning, though: I charge a steep price for playing tour guide٫" Azul warned. In your opinion٫ he currently reminded you of a peacock puffing out its feathers in pride at the new opportunity to flaunt his knowledge.
❥
"Ahhh! Oxygen, how I've missed you!" Grim exhaled in relief.
"Visiting the Atlantica Memorial Museum was pretty fun٫" Deuce thoughtfully admitted.
"I think I was bored to tears last time I went, but I had a good time visiting it again after all these years٫" Floyd reminisced.
"Once you get a feel for the world up here, it's funny to see how much of it merfolk misinterpreted in the old days٫" Jade deduced.
"That fork—I mean, "silver hair comb"—was hilarious٫" Ace added.
"I'm glad you enjoyed the trip. I'm sure you must be tired after spending so long in a strange environment٫" Azul stated٫ "It's just about opening time for the Mostro Lounge. Would you care to drop by for some tea?"
"You bet I would! I was just gettin' hungry٫" Grim cheered.
"Excellent! Now٫ right this way٫ if you will٫" Azul instructed٫ seemingly talking mostly to you as he placed a hand on your lower back and began leading you out of the Mirror Chamber. In the corner of your vision٫ you noticed Jade and Floyd sharing a knowing look.
❥
"One house special, please and thanks!"
"I'll have the drink set with the limited snack!"
"Coming right up!"
"Whoa! Why's it so crowded in here?" Ace asked٫ visibly taken aback.
"Ah, I see the promotion is paying off already٫" Jade observed٫ placing a hand on your shoulder as he came to a stop beside you.
"What promotion?" Jack wondered with suspicion.
"After everything that went down, the headmage chewed us out and said not to take anybody's powers again, even under contract٫" Floyd recalled٫ "So Azul devised a point card system!"
"Yeah? How's it work?" Ace nervously questioned.
Azul got right to explaining in his most customer service worthy voice٫ "You get one point for ordering a 6-thaumark drink special. And you get three points for ordering something off the 15-thaumark limited menu. When you build up fifty points, you earn the privilege of one free consultation with the manager—namely myself."
"When you say 'consultation,' do you mean, like, for ANYTHING?" Grim gasped.
"Let's say I needed help with my studies٫" Deuce hesitantly questioned.
"That would absolutely fall within my purview."
"What's more, when you fill three-point cards, you'll unlock even more perks٫" Jade continued.
"If you want to know more about these offers, please feel free to peruse this pamphlet or browse our website٫" Azul concluded.
"Myah! In that case, gimme a special drink!
And make it extra drink-y!" Grim declared.
Ace followed suit٫ "Same!"
"I'll have the snack set...٫" Deuce decided.
"We appreciate your prompt orders٫" the manager smiled.
Jack groaned٫ "You guys..."
"Nobody's learned anything from this...٫" you sighed.
"Come, Jade. Floyd. It's time for us to make some money٫" Azul announced.
"Yes٫ sir."
"You got it٫ Boss."
"Still, I'm impressed at how packed we are. We have our work cut out for us today٫" Jade noted.
"Woulda been a breeze if the anemones were still workin' for us٫" Floyd joked.
"I'll join you out in the front of house٫" Azul mentioned٫ "That will give me a better sense of how we're providing for our clientele. Now, let us work diligently to make a prof—٫" he cleared his throat٫ "I mean, please our customers!"
You sat by and watched as they staff worked. You weren't waiting long before a cup of tea a small plate of snacks that you had never even ordered was placed before you by a grinning٫ droopy-eyed eel. The rest of your party٫ who hadn't even received their orders yet٫ were evidently not allowed any of yours with how both twins grew ominously closer to your table anytime they attempted to snag a bite.
After a bit longer٫ Azul personally strolled back over to check on your table for reasons he wouldn't name.
"So٫ how would you rate your stay today so far? Up to your standards? Any complaints?"
Before any of you could reply٫ Ace promptly answered٫ "Oh٫ yeah. Pretty good٫ so far. Y'know٫ all except for the fact that your staff seems just a LITTLE biased with how they treat their customers."
He motioned to where you sat٫ enjoying your snack that you were hoping was on the house.
"Apologies٫ I'll make sure to deal with that shortly٫" Azul politely responded and made sure to stop Jade right there. "We certainly are busy٫ but that doesn't mean we can skimp on quality٫" he reminded.
"Ah٫ of course٫ my sincerest apologies٫" Jade bowed his head in feigned guilt for a moment٫ "I'm just seeing so many new faces today that it's hard to keep track."
The eel٫ then٫ turned back to Azul with that usual cunning look٫ "This is our chance to expand our clientele. Floyd is keeping an eye out to ensure our customers are treated with care."
"Ha ha. I see you're already on top of everything٫ Azul laughed in delight."
"So we're the only ones getting the short end of the stick?" Deuce questioned in disbelief.
He was promptly ignored by the two٫ however. They seemed to be far too wrapped up in their schemes to notice. Somehow٫ though٫ your empty snack plate was noticed٫ instead.
Jade picked up the plate with a charming smile and promised٫ "I'll make sure to bring you some fresh ones as soon as possible. And٫ perhaps٫ a refill for your tea٫ as well. All free of charge٫ of course."
The others stared in bewilderment as they still waited for their most likely forgotten orders while you were already getting free seconds and refills.
After a while longer٫ your party finally managed to receive their drinks and snacks. Only a bit longer after yours were resupplied. After the second refill on tea and snacks did your party realize something seemed off with them when you stopped replying and cut you off٫ much to the Tweel's chagrin. Only once you finally shook off the daze did you realize it was already just about closing time.
"Splendid! We made three times our usual amount!" Azul rejoiced.
Jade let out a chuckle٫ "Heh. We're well on our way to meeting our goal."
"Yes. If we can continue to earn the necessary funds....We'll be able to open a branch café!"
There was a collective groan from your table٫ opposed only by sly snickers from the two nearby eels.
"You haven't given up on all that yet?!" Ace audibly complained. Azul only grinned.
❥
The next day٫ you noticed two new pairs of eyes watching you. The two of them were first years in your class: One a Savanaclaw student with fluffy a leopard tail and ears with ruffled hair to match٫ and the other an Octavinelle student with light blue hair with streaks of white and pointed teeth. The two made a few notable attempts throughout the day to approach you٫ and probably a few unnoticed by you٫ but were scared off each time by the impenetrable wall constantly surrounding you composed of a direbeast٫ the two infamous dumbasses of Heartslabyul House٫ and a very large wolf beastman.
After classes٫ you finally managed a minute to yourself on account of club practices and Professor Crewel holding the usual troubled trio back a bit later to make up an assignment that they flunked. You were grateful to have a nice٫ peaceful walk back to your dorm for once in blue moon. Much to your dismay٫ that blessing was short lived.
"Hey٫ ___!"
You turned to see those two boys from earlier٫ taking hold of their chance to speak to you now that your self-proclaimed "bodyguards" weren't present.
"Hi...? Did you need something...uhm...٫" you were put at a loss for words trying to remember their names.
"Flinn٫" the boy introduced himself٫ not all too offended at your hazy memory.
"Sabri٫" the other greeted٫ but seemed just as happy as his friend to finally have a chance to talk to you.
"We just wanted to say how totally sick it was that you actually beat Housewarden Ashengrotto at his own loophole game!" The previous boy praised.
"And how cool it was when you managed to knock Housewarden Kingscholar out of his frenzy a while back!" The other added on.
"Oh! Uhm٫ thanks?" You nervously replied.
This was kinda weird...It was one of the most normal conversations you've had with your peers in a while. Actually٫ it's just been a while since you had a conversation with any of your peers besides the ones that stuck to you like glue.
Oblivious to your new mental crisis٫ Flinn pressed on٫ "And٫ well٫ we were kinda hoping you wouldn't mind being٫ like٫ friends or something٫ y'know٫ if it's—"
"We were wondering if you'd mind having lunch with us tomorrow٫" Sabri interrupted٫ seeming to notice his friend's word troubles. "And٫ if you don't mind٫ maybe being friends?"
"Yeah! What he said!"
Honestly٫ it sounded like a nice offer. Plus٫ the two of them seemed nice enough. You were about to except when you heard a sudden voice calling out for you. The two boys in front of you seemed to quickly recognize its owner٫ causing them to freeze up in fear.
"Little Shrimpy! Where are youuu?"
You watched as Floyd rounded the corner٫ his face lighting up once he finally found you. Yet٫ a sour looked crossed his face at the sight of the two boys with you. With just a few long strides٫ the eel was already next to you. Well٫ more so leaning on you.
"Hey٫ you're those two small fry that kept trying to approach Little Shrimpy٫" Floyd pointed out٫ earning what you believed to be an audible gulp from one of them.
"Yep٫ sorry 'bout that—" Flinn started٫ about to run off٫ but was cut off by Sabri as he grabbed the former's sleeve to hold him in place.
"So what if we are? You clearly haven't claimed them as your darling or anything yet٫ so what gives you the right to dictate what they do? They're here at an all-yandere academy٫ so obviously they're not some weak٫ defenseless darling!"
You watched as Sabri chewed out Floyd. It felt somewhat gratifying until you heard how he described darlings. Was that how he truly felt? Was that how you'd be seen and treated if others found out? If everyone found out?
"You might wanna watch your choice of words 'round Little Shrimpy٫" Floyd warned٫ a dangerous lilt in his voice٫ but from where you were٫ you could hear the amusement in it. Amusement at the fact he knew something the other two obviously didn't٫ and that it would be their downfall to you.
"No٫ he's right!" Flinn joined in. "You're always going around٫ acting all threatening٫ and ordering everyone around like you're in charge. But you're not! And ___ has no proof of being your darling or anything٫ so you have no charge over them! Even then٫ a proper yandere would keep their darling on a tighter leash! So٫" he took a breath and looked back at you٫ "Would you mind sitting with us tomorrow?"
"Sorry٫ but no..."
"What?!"
"But—..."
"Ha! Looks like Little Shrimpy's made their choice. Sorry٫ fellas٫" Floyd mocked with a cocky smirk.
The eel began to tug on your uniform tie until it came undone. After٫ he pulled it from your uniform completely and started to run with it٫ evidently wanting you to give chase.
"Hey! Floyd٫ give it back! That's my only one!" You cried out٫ leaving the two boys forgotten behind as you ran after Floyd.
❥
After a while of chasing٫ you somehow managed to loose track of Floyd. You wandered around aimlessly for a bit until you saw the sun starting to set. As one last hope٫ you headed to Octavinelle.
You entered through the Monstro Lounge٫ deciding to see if he'd gotten pulled into worker amidst your little "game". To your surprise٫ though٫ the lounge was rather empty٫ save for a few Octavinelle students. Asking them didn't do much help٫ either. Each response led to the same "hadn't seem him" conclusion. Nevertheless٫ you steeled your resolve trudged further into the dorm house.
Once you got closer to the kitchen٫ you finally found your answer. As you got closer٫ Floyd's distinct voice grew clearer.
"Huh?! You've never eaten any fresh?!"
You were about to interrupt his conversation with whoever and demand your uniform tie back٫ but then you heard Jack was the one who replied.
"If by 'fresh' you mean 'freshly killed' and 'raw'٫ then no. I haven't٫" he replied.
Suddenly٫ Ruggie's voice followed٫ "Whaaat?! You've never eaten the stuff raw before?! C'mon man! It's like eating raw cookie dough!"
"I've never eaten cookie dough raw٫ either٫" Jack replied.
"What?!"
Curiosity getting the best of you٫ you peaked through the opened door to find a strange group together. Floyd٫ Ruggie٫ and Jack were bickering in front of the kitchen island٫ Azul and Jade seemed to be prepping to cook something٫ and Leona was leaning against the counter with his eyes closed.
"C'mon٫ you gotta try a bite٫" Ruggie urged٫ taking a step towards Jack.
Floyd quickly followed suit٫ "Yeahhh! Just a little nibble٫ Sea Urchin."
Jack backed away as they grew closer to him. Due to that٫ you now had a clearer view of what it was they were talking about. There٫ laid out on the island counter٫ were two bodies. What made it worse was the fact you recognized the bodies. They were the two boys from earlier today. You felt like you were gonna be sick!
"Leona٫ back me up here!" Ruggie begged.
Leona shrugged and walked over to the body of the boy you remembered as Sabri٫ looking down at his once dormmate.
"More for me٫ then٫" he casually replied٫ and cut off a chunk of the Leopard's upper arm before tossing it into mouth. You nearly threw up.
"Hey! Save the good meat to be cooked!" Azul fussed.
"Yeah yeah. I let you lot help discipline a stray member of my pride. Now٫ keep cookin'٫" the lion argued back. Azul let out a disgruntled grumble٫ but did just that.
"How come you've never eaten any of the raw stuff before?" Floyd went back to questioning Jack. "It's the best part of the hunt."
"Well٫ my dad never let my mom٫ my siblings٫ or me ever eat any٫" Jack recalled٫ "He always said he needed to cook it first to get rid of the 'bad intentions' of whoever tried disrupting our family by going after mom."
Jade let out a thoughtful hum in reply٫ "Well my parents always told Floyd and me that when the kill's freshest is when you can taste the most love behind it."
"Hmmm. Fine!" Jack relented٫ "But just a bite!"
Floyd and Ruggie celebrated as they cut a peace to feed to Jack. At just the first bite٫ Jack's tail began to happily wag behind him.
Ruggie snickered٫ "I know٫ right!"
"Don't think that just because of this we're allies or whatever٫" Leona reminded٫ "We just happened to share prey under the other's jurisdiction."
"Naturally٫" Azul replied٫ "But keep in mind٫ I don't plan on losing something so precious to a mere oversized house cat."
Leona growled٫ but ultimately did nothing.
Grim seemed to have devolved into your main source of comfort these days٫ even if he didn't realize. If it weren't for him٫ you had no idea what you would've done.
You took a step back٫ clutching your hands to your mouth. You took step after step backwards until you found yourself running from the hall٫ and the dorm as a whole. You ran and ran until you made it back to the safety of your own rundown dorm.
Once shutting the front door٫ you leaned against it٫ heaving for air. You went to untie your tie before remembering the original purpose of your search. Shoot...Maybe you could ask Sam if he sold any...
Unbuttoning the top buttons of your uniform shirt٫ you finally managed enough air to fill your lungs. You walked into the dorm lounge and found Grim passed out on the couch. Poor thing must've fell asleep waiting for you. You decided to sit next to him. Well٫ it ended up as more of a collapse onto the cushions. Then٫ without thinking٫ you laid down and buried your face into his furry tummy٫ unaware of the tears that began to fall down your cheeks and into his fur.
God٫ you hated this sick٫ twisted world.
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